Disclaimer: RWBY and Hollow Knight do not belong to me. They belong to RoosterTeeth and Team Cherry respectively.
Chapter 15: The Queen, Part I
Within my roots...
"So this is..."
"Hallownest," Ozpin finished, "Though a location I've never seen before."
Never mind that Ozpin had only been to Hallownest once. The location that Miss Schnne had taken him, Glynda, and James to now was vastly different to either the caverns or the Greenpath. A strange diffused light filled the ashy caverns, particles drifting from what seemed like everywhere, dancing on the wind.
Ozpin absently covered the mouth of his mug with a hand while watching James and Glynda's reactions.
James stood at attention, hands behind his back and weapon in plain sight. Despite his caution, it was clear that he was at least, in part, taken by the alien landscape.
"It is like..."
"Snow."
James and Ozpin turned towards Miss Schnee, who flushed and looked down towards the floor. Behind her, the Hollow Knight stood - a silent sentinel.
"M-My apologies General."
"None needed, Miss Schnee," James assured, "You simply stole my words. It is like snow."
"It isn't thought."
Glynda had knelt down, pinching a pile of the psuedo-snow and examining it carefully.
"Strange," she said, "It almost resembles...Dust."
"Professor?" Weiss asked, surprised.
"Wouldn't you say, Miss Schnee?"
The question from Glynda seemed to activate something in Weiss, and she folded her hands together, nervousness melting away.
"I hadn't been in the correct state of mind to observe earlier, but I had taken a sample with me. After observing it, I...came to a similar conclusion. It almost resembled Hard Light Dust."
"Truly?" James's gaze on the psuedo-snow grew sharper. It made sense. Hard Light Dust was both one of the most sought after varieties of Dust, as well as one of the rarest. If there was perhaps one thing that would get James to reconsider sealing away Hallownest for good, it would be the thought of a source of Hard Light Dust.
"I am fairly confident," Weiss began.
"As part of the Schnee Dust Company, that means quite a bit," James said, letting some of the pseudo-snow fall into his hand.
"However..." here Miss Schnee hesitated.
"It didn't work as intended," Glynda said, standing up.
"No professor."
"Really? A shame."
"According to Miss Xiao Long, this is ash. From the body of a long dead god," Ozpin finally revealed. All but Weiss seemed surprised, James doing a double take and Glynda making a face before dusting her hands.
"Are you serious, Oz?"
"I confirmed the story with Bardoon," Ozpin took a few steps, admiring the strange landscape of the Kingdom's Edge, "And we know from Miss Rose's, as well as Miss Xiao Long and Miss Schnee's testimonies that Hallownest has beings that a could easily be considered as gods."
Ozpin looked back. Both James and Glynda were frowning. For all that they had accepted what he'd told them about Salem, gods would still be a step too far for them. James never felt at ease unless he knew that had the power to deal with whatever the situation would throw at him. And Glynda was a rational woman, sometimes too much so.
"From the words of this Seer-"
"If we can believe them," James said with a frown.
"I believe we can, sir," Weiss said, looking down at her feet. Behind her, the Hollow Knight's grip on their weapon increased.
"As do I," Ozpin said. At the very least, he believed in Miss Schnee. James and Glynda gave him a look, and he gave them one back. It was a look he used often - ' trust me '.
Eventually the two nodded and Ozpin gave one last look at the Kingdom's Edge.
"I feel we have seen enough for now. Miss Schnee, you may take us back."
"Yes headmaster," Weiss closed her eyes, and the Dream Nail blossomed in her hand. Once again Ozpin was struck by the raw magic that poured from the artifact – far more than he could muster nowadays. The pink light took the form of a phantom weapon, and with the swing of the nail-
-They were back on the cliffs of Beacon. At Ozpin's feet was the shattered remains of the launch pads.
"What an odd feeling," Glynda said, rubbing her arms.
"Yes," James said, staring at the Hollow Knight. The Hollow Knight tilted their head, staring back.
"How could I not have seen..." James began.
"Miss Schnee, you are free to go."
"Yes, Headmaster."
Weiss Schnee began walk back towards Beacon. After a moment the Hollow Knight followed, pausing to glance at them once more.
"That's just eerie," James said at last.
"For once I have to agree," Glynda said.
"You can hardly hold it against them, what they are," Ozpin made to take a sip from his mug, only to find ash floating in it.
"Are you sure about this Ozpin?"
Ozpin looked up, to see James staring at him, arms crossed.
"I am," Ozpin said firmly, "I trust in Team RWBY. And I trust Qrow."
"Where is that blasted man anyway?" Glynda muttered.
Within my roots…
"My dear fellow, is this seat taken?"
Qrow Branwen, who'd been drinking himself to something – plenty of people had offered their unasked for opinions as to what – looked up from his glass. The stranger before him was...strange. Fashionable, far more so than one would expect from someone at the borders of a Kingdom. But his fashion was tattered and rough, and the way the stranger held themselves…It was clear this wasn't some sort of fop.
"Be my guest," Qrow shrugged after a moment of staring.
"Many thanks, my good fellow," the stranger rasped. Qrow snorted into his drink.
"My good fellow..." Qrow muttered.
"Is something the matter?" the stranger asked.
"Most people who call me that," Qrow, with some effort, pointed at the stranger, "Want to beat the stuffing out of me."
"I can hardly imagine why," the stranger laughed. It was a deep, mirthful sound and Qrow couldn't help but chuckle.
"Yeah, I gotta award winning personality. Sooo..." Qrow slurred, "Why'dya chose to sit here? Not like the bar is full."
It wasn't. It wasn't a large bar by any means, but this late there weren't many patrons to pay patronage. The stranger certainly didn't have to sit next to him, something that Qrow might've minded a couple of drinks back.
"Life is better with company, wouldn't you say? Ah, my good miss!" the stranger waved down the waitress.
"Eh, I've managed t'make due without," Qrow stares down at his glass.
"What a sad thing to say," the stranger tsks, taking his drink from the pretty waitress with a thank you.
"Well...some company is better than others," Qrow grins, watching the waitress walk away.
"How incorrigible," the stranger says wryly. The stranger snaps his fingers, a burning cigar appearing in between his fingers.
"You a magician or something?" Qrow asks after a moment.
"A magician? Not quite, though I am part of a magnificent troupe."
"You certainly are dressed the part," Qrow frowns as he recalled the big tents that had been plastered at the border of the village.
"I will take that as compliment," the stranger takes a drag of the cigar, blowing dark smoke into the air. Qrow wondered if smoking was allowed in the bar, before deciding that it wasn't his problem.
"So, what, you and your...clown buddies heading to Vale or something?"
"We're making a circuit around the villages of the Kingdom," the stranger waves his cigar, "Aiming to end our circuit in Vale during the Festival."
"Yeah? Good luck, Vale's a pretty boring Kingdom as far as things go."
"And what about you, my fellow?"
"Heading there myself," Qrow waved a hand, "I was making good time, so I thought to treat myself tonight."
"You're the sort of fellow who treats himself quite often," the stranger mused.
Qrow's grin slips.
"Not like there's a problem with that," he says, a bit defensive.
"I suppose not," the stranger tilts his head, "But be careful, Qrow Branwen. Best to be early rather than late...Who knows what horrible things could happen when one is not there."
Qrow threw back his drink, slamming the glass on the table.
"Y'know," Qrow growled, "I don't need some dude moralizing me tonight so you can just-"
Qrow whirls towards the stranger, only to find the seat empty. The bar is darker than it had been a moment ago.
"-Uh…?"
"Sir?"
Qrow turns towards the waitress, who's holding a mop and cleaning the bar floors. She's giving him a concerned look.
"It's getting late, sir."
"Uh, yeah, so it is," Qrow winces at the wasted chance for a smooth line, but he's too rattled at the moment, "Hey, uh, was there a..." Qrow looks back at the seat next to him.
"Sir?"
"Nevermind," Qrow shakes his head vigorously, the act almost sending him to the floor. He manages to stand up and stumble to his lodgings. But any hope for a good night's sleep are dashed the moment his head hits the pillow.
" Shadows dream of endless fire! Flames devour and embers swoop!"
The world is aflame, acrid smoke choking Qrow as he runs through the roaring fire. Searching, desperately searching. Qrow stumbles and when he stands he sees Yang in the arms of the stranger. A gaunter, inhuman stranger, laughing as he twirls his niece around, red flames licking both of their bodies.
" Ya-!" Qrow coughs on smoke, even as he reaches out to Yang.
" One will light the Nightmare Lantern! Call and serve in Grimm's dread troupe!" the stranger bellows, and the flames billows, engulfing him.
" Yang!" Qrow lunges.
" Dance and Die and Live forever!" Yang sings out, red eyes glaring into Qrow before she too is swallowed by the flames. Qrow passes through the flames and crashes to the grassy ground below. The fires are gone, and now Qrow is amidst a dense forest. All is silent, no birdsong or whisper of the breeze, and Qrow stumbles to his feet.
Something cracks behind him, and he whirls around. He wishes he hadn't.
A massive skeletal monster, wreathed in thorns and vines, sits in the gloom of the forest. Sharp claws pick and snap bones, and the monster pulls out a strand of bright red and swallows it messily.
" Soft and tender," the monster grunts, "A delicate flavour."
Silver eyes, dreadfully empty, stare into Qrow.
Qrow woke up screaming.
The already disturbed inn was disturbed further as a huntsmen tore through the place, barreling out of the doors and running into the woods. In the morning, the townspeople will scratch their heads and shrug. A waitress will let slip that she'd seen the man muttering to himself over his drink last night, and everyone will assume that the poor fellow had snapped after what he'd seen in the Grimm infested wilds. A shame, but better that he hadn't stayed too long in the village and attracted the Grimm to their borders.
Only one being saw the man, mid run through the trees, warp and shift before taking to the air in the form of a bird.
"A most curious fellow, wouldn't you say?" Grimm hummed as he watches Qrow Branwen's flight to Vale. Besides him a Grimmkin nodded their head, scarlet embers gathered in a small lantern. Grimm waved towards where Qrow had disappeared.
"Now, do your part my good fellow. Without your role fulfilled, the Ritual will stay stuck in its infancy! Fly fast, Qrow Branwen!"
Within my roots…
"Beacon...It's been a long time."
Atlas Specialist Winter Schnee paused as she stepped off the Bullhead.
"The air...It is different."
She can't put a finger on the observation, but she knows it to be true. Something about Beacon's atmosphere is different. Something...tenser. The crowds of student's that usually wander Beacon are still there, but smaller than she is used to. It is quieter, too.
General Ironwood had pulled her from her missions rather suddenly. Perhaps…
"Perhaps I am just being paranoid," Winter muttered.
Maybe all she's sensing is that winter's chill has come early to Vale. She won't know until she meets up with the General.
' And afterwards,' Winter thought to herself as she marched towards the heart of Beacon, ' I shall meet up with Weiss. It has been...too long. I hope she's doing alright. Is she eating well? Has she made friends?'
Winter's internal fussing came to a halt as she stumbled into someone.
"I-I beg your pardon-!" Winter's face blazed at her lack of awareness and she nearly bowed in apology. She stopped midway when she realized who she's stumbled into.
" You! " she growled, embarrassment fusing with anger as she catches sight of Qrow Branwen.
Qrow Branwen blinked down at her, clearly drunk, before giving her a leering grin.
"Weelll weelll weelll," Qrow slurred, "If it isn't the Ice Queen! Ya better watch where're going little lady."
"Qrow," Winter sighed, willing her fury to fade, "It's…well I can't say its pleasant to see you."
"Nows that anyway to talk to an ol' friend?" Qrow asked.
"We're not friends."
"That's cause..." Qrow pointed at her with some effort, "You've gotta stick up yer ass."
"I'm not dealing with this today."
Winter motioned for one of the AK-200's before walking past Qrow. She and the other AK-200 barely made it several steps when the head of the first AK buried itself into the chassis of the second.
"You know I could have you charged with destroying Atlas Military Property?" Winter asked, turning around.
"Bah, as if anyone gives a shit bout this garbage," Qrow kicked the body of the AK for emphasis.
"Qrow, you are severely testing my patience."
"Oh boo-hoo. Y'know, you think you're real special dontcha?"
Winter considered Qrow for a moment, trying to bite back the vitriol climbing into her mouth.
"It is in my title," she finally managed.
"Yeah? Well, here's what I think about your title. "
Qrow Branwen, drunk out of his mind and in front of a quickly gathering crowd, belted out a raspberry that lasted for a minute. It's one of the longest minutes of Winter's life, and she feels her patience snap.
It comes to a sudden halt as Winter unsheathed her sword and pointed it at Qrow.
"Seeing as how you don't seem to be using it for anything useful, I'll do the world a favour a cut your tongue out!"
"Wouldn't ya like to know what good this tongue's done," Qrow waggled it and with a snarl Qinter launched herself at him. Qrow grinned, swinging his own weapon to the ready.
Hunter and Huntress are but half a meter away from each other, each with deadly steel drawn, when the air between them turns dark and with a loud 'vworp' an inhuman creature stands between the two.
Winter's sword slammed against another sword, the jolt of the blow traveling up Winter's arm. She's entirely unprepared as with a swing of its sword the creature sent both weapons flying out of reach.
Qrow is similarly unprepared as the creatures whirled around, unarmed arm cracking and shifting till it rocketed out, tendrils of darkness slamming into him and dragging him across the ground.
Winter stared at the creature, and the seemingly unconscious Qrow wrapped in its tendrils, hands grasping for a weapon that isn't there, when she heare a familiar voice.
"Winter!"
Winter whirled around in time to see her little sister running towards her. Winter let's out a small 'oof' of surprise as Weiss barreled into her, wrapping her arms tightly around her. Winter froze, unsure of what to do with – with this hug.
"I missed you," Weiss mumbled, and Winter sighed and returned the hug.
"Weiss, this is most...There are people..." Winter abruptly remembers the creature and whirled around, pushing Weiss behind her.
"Weiss, get back!" Winter ordered, summoning glyphs. The symbols fade as Weiss grabbed Winter's arm.
"Weiss-!?"
"Winter, don't worry! They're my summon!"
Winter froze, looking between the creature and Weiss. Before she can stop her, Weiss stepped in front of Winter and motioned towards the creature.
"Winter, this is the Hollow Knight. Hollow Knight, this is my elder sister. Winter Schnee."
The creature – the Hollow Knight – stared at Winter. Winter resisted the urge to attack, watching her little sister's relaxed pose carefully.
Finally, the Hollow Knight bowed. Weiss smiled, and Winter is burning with curiosity when-
"Uncle Qrow!?"
Within my roots…
"Where...Where am I?"
"In the infirmary."
Qrow blinked, and his vision swam into focus. Yang stood over him, smiling at him. It's a smile he recognized from his sister – a sharp smile that didn't mean anything good for its recipient.
"Uncle Qrow?" Yang singsonged ominously, "What did I tell you about embarrassing me in publi- Uncle Qrow!?"
Qrow pulled his niece into a fierce hug. For a moment Yang resisted, before relaxing and patting his back. The moment doesn't last long – Qrow's not the hugging sort – and he pushed Yang away after a moment. Still, he kept a hand on her shoulder. Making sure she's there.
The nightmare still holds fresh in his mind.
"Uncle Qrow?" Yang asked, her previous annoyance given way for worry. It's not a look he particularly likes seeing in his niece's eyes – he's seen too much of it already, in the years after Summer…
Qrow mustered a grin and ruffled Yang's hair.
"Dammit Uncle Qrow-!"
"How's it going kid?"
What Qrow expected – and sort of hoped for – is for Yang to roll her eyes, call him old, and talk about nothing much. The same old Beacon shenanigans. Instead Yang sighed half her soul away and leaned back in her chair.
"Yang?" Qrow asked as his niece stares up at the ceiling.
"Uncle Qrow..." Yang began, "You and Team STRQ...you guys got into a lot of stupid stuff back when you were in Beacon, right?"
"Oh, tons," Qrow waved a hand, "Listen if this is about you and your team's little extra-curricular skirmish with Roman Torchwick at the docks-"
"You heard about that?" Yang blinked.
"Yeah, me and your dad heard about it," Yang had the decency to look a bit sheepish, "But if he gives you grief about that, let me tell you I got some dirt on him-"
"It's not that..." Yang's smile slipped and she sighed again, "I don't even know where to begin."
"Kid..."
"Qrow," the door to the infirmary opens and Glynda Goodwitch strode in, looking less than pleased.
"Yeah," Qrow gave a little salute, and Goodwitch's expression becomes just a degree more frigid.
"Miss Xiao Long," Goodwitch began.
"Yeah, I can see where this is going," Yang got up and shot him a sympathetic look, "See ya later Uncle Qrow. Try not to die."
"Thanks," he deadpanned as Yang left the infirmary.
"Thank the heavens that she didn't inherit you or Taiyang's attitudes," Goodwitch muttered before leveling her glare at him. A lifetime of Goodwitch glares have inoculated him to their worst affects and he's busy patting himself down for his flask. "Honestly Qrow, what were you thinking?"
"What?" Qrow snapped, "You can't exactly fault me-"
"I can't fault you?!" Goodwitch watched his frantic search before rolling her eyes and taking out his flask. Her expression doesn't shift an inch as she pulled out of reach of Qrow's pawing hands. "Qrow, you were drunk and disorderly in public. Again ."
"Yeah. Emphasis on again," Qrow made a lunge for his flask, only to rock back as Goodwitch's ridding crop meets his hand, "Shit! It's not like this is the first time its happened."
" That does not excuse you!"
"Hey, I didn't start it this time! Jimmy's precious pet drew steel first!"
Goodwitch sighed and Qrow prepared himself for a lecture when she sat down next to him.
"You aren't wrong there," Goodwitch massaged her temples, "Honestly as irritating as you are, drawing a weapon was entirely crossing a line."
"Thanks?"
Goodwitch shot him a look, before adjusting her glasses and leveling him a much scarier look – one that could've been called worry.
"What's wrong, Qrow?"
"I was just telling you, Little Miss Snow-"
"In all the time I've known you, you've been drunk most of it," Goodwitch interrupted, "But I've never seen you with an empty flask."
For emphasis she shook the offending object. This time Qrow doesn't reach for it.
"What's wrong?" Goodwitch asked again.
"...Just got worried about my nieces," Qrow shrugged, declining to explain his vivid nightmares, "I've been told its a thing uncles do. Thought I'd give it a try," Qrow gave a dry chuckle and leaned back into the cot, "I can see that I was worried about nothing though. Here I thought they'd be getting into all sorts of life threatening shenanigans. Like you said I guess, good thing that they're better behaved than Team STRQ ever was."
Goodwitch pursed her lips.
"About that-"
Within my roots…
"Ah, Qrow. Glad to see you in one piece and," Ozpin gave his old friend a once over, "Mostly sober."
"Ozpin," there isn't much warmth in Qrow's voice as he stormed over to his desk, and judging by the message Glynda had sent him a moment ago Ozpin can give a good guess as to why, "What's this about my nieces almost dying, like, several times?"
"I would like to know as well," Winter Schnee chimed in from her position next to James, The two Atlesians are standing to the side of the room, and while James is composed if slightly nervous, Winter Schnee hasn't stopped glaring daggers at Ozpin ever since he'd informed her – briefly – of why he'd asked James to call her to Beacon.
Qrow gives Winter a double-take and turns back to Ozpin.
"What's she doing here?"
"Qrow-"
"I'm not entirely happy to see you here either," Winter ground out.
"Yeah, well the both of you are free to leave anytime ," Qrow sniped.
"Qrow-" Ironwood began.
"Apap! I don't want to hear anything from you right now Jimmy, I've got enough of a headache at the moment."
"You will mind your manners-!" Winter hissed.
"Specialist Schnee," James scolded. Winter immediately stood back to attention and Qrow snorts.
"For crying out loud...All bark and no bite, you Atlesians!"
"Qrow, certainly we have more important matters than petty bickering?" James asked, exasperated. Next to him, Winter Schnee is slowly turning more red as she glared at Qrow.
"Oh, I certainly got more important things on my mind. So how about you guys let met talk to Ozpin, and buzz off!"
"Oh, is this a bad time?"
Qrow blinks and looks down his pointed finger. Coming out of the elevator were Glynda Goodwitch and one Nailmaster Mato. Qrow stared at Mato, who stared back in a manner sheepish.
"Nailmaster Mato," Ozpin said, "Please, join us. We're just waiting on a few more before we can start our meeting."
"Ah, the young ones I assume?" Mato followed Goodwitch, walking past Qrow as he does. Qrow watched with an open mouth, and if the matter hadn't been serious Ozpin might've taken a picture.
"Uh, I'm not the only one seeing this, right?" Qrow asked, absently going for his flask only to make a face, "Er, who are you?"
"Myself? I am Nailmaster Mato," Mato bowed before abruptly standing and taking Qrow's hand, "Ah, I forgot! You shake appendages in this kingdom as greeting, yes?"
"Uh..."
"I am afraid I did not catch your name?"
"Qrow...Branwen," Qrow is still looking around as if any moment Ozpin will admit that this was all a great prank. Ozpin took a sip from his mug, watching Winter Schnee from the corner of his eyes. Though she's hiding her confusion with much more aplomb, its clear that she's suspicious of Mato without realizing why.
' Soon we'll get that sorted out. '
"OK, Oz, time out here," Qrow managed to extract his hand from Mato's grasp, "What's going on?"
"All will be revealed in a moment Qrow," Ozpin reassured.
"Oz, usually I'm okay with your whole mysterious mystic attitude," Qrow walked up to him and plants his hands on his desk, "But I've had a rough day and-"
The elevator dinged.
"Sorry we're late Headmaster!"
There's a rush of air, rose petals and leaves in the air, and Ruby Rose planted what is practically a square brick of a binder onto the desk.
"We were busy deciphering the Journal and then Uncle Qrow apparently got into a fight with Weiss's sister and Weiss has a sister and the Hollow Knight sent our uncle to the infirmary and we lost track of time and-"
"Ruby?" Qrow asked numbly.
Ruby blinked and turned her head.
"Uncle Qrow?"
"Uncle Qrow?" Yang parrots as she walked into the office.
"Yang?"
"Winter?" Weiss came to a stop behind Yang, staring gobsmacked at her sister.
"Weiss? What are you-?"
The Hollow Knight stepped out of the elevator, looming over Yang and Weiss.
"The summon," Winter flinched back.
"Ah, the Hollow Knight! Young ones!" Mato called out with a wave.
"Hey," Blake Belladonna popped up from behind the Hollow Knight.
"Alright!" Qrow clapped his hands, eyes wide, "What's going on!?"
Ozpin emptied his mug and stood up.
"Now that we're all here, let us begin."
Within my roots…
"Are you sure it was him?"
"Looked like a bum, smelled like a bum, immediately ate shit," Mercury shrugged his shoulders, "Two out of three off the list."
"Was his weapon a scythe?" Emerald asked.
"He didn't get to use it," Mercury flopped onto the bed, "Little Miss Schnee's summon had some bite to it."
Cinder Fall listened with one ear as Emerald chews out Mercury for his lackadaisical attitude. She peruses through the security footage of Beacon's courtyard until she finds what she's looking for.
"Qrow Branwen," she said.
Mercury and Emerald grow silent.
"So, what do we do?" Emerald asked, a bit nervous.
Cinder doesn't respond, staring at the grainy image of Qrow Branwen being barreled over by a summoned Grimm. Normally the sight would at least bring her some joy.
"Mercury?"
"Yeah?" Mercury has the sense at least to sit up when she speaks to him.
"What of your earlier reconnaissance of the Emerald Forest's platforms?" she asked. She leaves out that this is what he'd been sent out for in the first place. Judging by the clearing of his throat, he's already aware.
"Wasn't easy seeing what all the fuss was about. The whole cliffside was cordoned off, and a whole buncha soldiers were guarding it. Said something about the platforms being "under maintenance" when I asked."
"And?" Cinder asked, a bit impatient.
"After I managed to give them the slip, I found...nothing."
"Nothing?" Emerald asked, incredulous.
"Nothing but busted and broken launch pads being rebuilt," Mercury shrugged, "Turns out they were telling the truth."
"Okay, but what broke it?" Emerald demands.
"How should I know? Maybe a giant Nevermore wanted to make a nest."
"Mercury-"
"Enough."
The two fall silent – Emerald casting her gaze to the floor, Mercury pursing his lips. Cinder resisted the urge to flop onto the bed and massage her temples. Such childish acts are beneath her.
Even still she has the urge to melt something into slag.
By no means had her plan to infiltrate Beacon ever been free of stress. For all the doddering old fool he was Headmaster Ozpin was still a threat. Her plan had always been a careful tightrope act, a delicate performance. One slip up and it'd all go crash.
But it had gone swimmingly so far. Roman and the White Fang were busy building themselves as her army, and she'd gotten into the CCT network without a hitch. Ironwoods fools hadn't even begun to root her out of their systems. All was going absolutely perfectly, save for-
"Schnee," Cinder swiped her scroll's screen, staring at the picture of one Winter Schnee.
"Will she be a problem?" Emerald asked, carefully looking up at her.
"A problem? No," Cinder's eyes narrow, "A nuisance? Perhaps."
What reason could Ozpin have to call his loyal watchdog and Winter Schnee to Beacon? Qrow Branwen perhaps could have been called due to the Elder Boarbatusk attack several day ago – and hadn't that been an unpleasant surprise? All of her planning nearly blowing up weeks too early. If it hadn't been for little Ruby Rose…
But Cinder doubted it. More likely was that Qrow had been called for something else. As for Winter, it had been clear that she was here for her younger sister. Weiss Schnee.
' The entire team's proving to be a headache. '
It made sense for Winter Schnee to be here. The Schnee family semblance was a not-so-carefully guarded secret, one that certainly had vexed her Mistress. Nothing like it had ever been seen before. And, judging by the strange grimm that Weiss Schnee had managed to summon, it held even more secrets.
She'd tried calling to it. The summon. She hadn't much faith that it would work, and was thus not surprised when the summon didn't even turn its head. For all they looked like grimm, the Schnee summons were not – this much she knew.
Absently Cinder let a flame bloom in the palm of her hand. Without her realizing, a smile tugged at her lips as she watched the soft flame. Even after all these days the novelty hadn't worn off. Magic, warm and wild and hers . And soon she'd have more. There was no way for Ozpin to stop her, now that she had half-
The flame snuffed out as Cinder came to a realization.
"Cinder?" Emerald reached a hand out, before thinking better of it.
"Clever old fool," Cinder muttered, an eyebrow raised.
"Penny for your thoughts?" Mercury asked.
"My thoughts are worth more than a penny," Cinder said absently, "However, I believe I have a hunch as to why dear Ozpin called for his dusty old crow."
"Oh?" Mercury and Emerald leaned forward. She gave them the barest glance.
"Team RWBY have been most strange, wouldn't you say?"
"Uh, I guess?" Emerald glanced at Mercury before continuing, "Honestly they're pretty normal. Happy go lucky idiots."
"Schnee's a bit stuck up," Mercury offered, "Keeps to herself."
"Secretive?" Cinder suggested.
"Sure? Not like anyone wants anything to do with her, what with that weird summon."
"A powerful summon," Cinder parroted Mercury's words back at him.
Mercury and Emerald share another furtive glance, only to snap to attention as Cinder snaps her fingers.
"You two are to keep a closer watch on Team RWBY. Especially Weiss Schnee," she ordered.
"What about-?" Emerald asked.
"Do as you are told," Cinder lets her voice become softer, "For all that he looks a bum, Branwen is a dangerous fellow. We'll be better off going for...easier targets."
"Yes Cinder," Emerald nodded, and Cinder almost smiles.
"Now, leave me. I have some...thinking to do."
Mercury shrugged his shoulders and stands up, walking out of the dorm room. Emerald hesitated, glancing at her one last time before following him.
Free from prying eyes Cinder allowed herself to fall back onto the bed, brushing a stray strand of hair from her face.
' Weiss Schnee as the Fall Maiden? Is that your game? '
The more she thought about it, the less absurd the scenario became. The Schnee Heiress, coming all the way from Atlas to Vale? Ozpin's interest and leeway with Team RWBY? Even with only half the maiden's powers, a fully realized Schnee could be trouble. And as a student, Ozpin could keep her close at hand, and prevent her from going missing.
"Clever old fool," Cinder chuckled, sitting back up. Her scroll turns back on, flashing till it lands on the symbol of a black queen chess piece.
"Such a shame then, that I'll be taking what's mine ."
Within my roots…
"...And that is rather the gist of it. Any questions?"
Ozpin looked over the room. Glynda and James, who have been in the know the whole time, are standing to either side of him. Sitting in the sets in front of his desk are Team RWBY, all in various states of embarrassment and nervousness - Ruby Rose is hugging her binder, Weiss Schnee sits as if she'd been carved from stone, Blake Belladonna has a neutral expression across her face even as she glances at the exit points of the office, and Yang Xiao Long is twirling a lock of her hair with a hesitant smile.
Sitting on either side of the team are Qrow Branwen and Winter Schnee. Winter is sitting like Weiss, with only her clenched fists betraying her emotions. Qrow on the other hand-
"So let me get this straight," he pointed at Weiss, who somehow sits up straighter, " You tried to summon using your semblance, only to summon this thing-"
He motioned to the Hollow Knight, standing at attention behind Weiss Schnee.
"The Hollow Knight," Ruby piped up before looking back at her lap.
"-And not only did you somehow do that but you somehow also summoned this weird ghost kingdom filled with talking bugs?" Qrow glanced to Mato, who's standing to the side, "Uh, no offense?"
"None taken," Mato said amicably.
"That is...more or less what happened," Weiss admitted after a moment.
"...I chose a hell of a time to not be drunk," Qrow lamented.
"Sorry-" Weiss fidgeted, looking down at her lap.
"You have nothing to be sorry for, Weiss," Winter interrupted, glaring at Qrow.
"I mean, she sorta did start it?" Qrow caught the way his nieces look at him and amended, "But, don't worry kid. It's not like you did it on purpose."
"I have reason to believe that the events that have come to pass have very little to do with Miss Schnee," Ozpin said.
"What do you mean, Oz?"
"I have reason to believe that greater forces are at play here."
Qrow's gaze darkened, and he glanced at the students before mouthing ' her?'. Qrow barely relaxed as Ozpin gave a small shake of his head.
"Based on what Team RWBY has discovered, I have reason to think that the events at play here are the result of these "Higher Beings"."
"You mean these gods?" Qrow clarified.
"Headmaster, with due respect..." Winter began, hesitating as she tried to find a way to phrase her question politely.
"You don't believe him do you?" Qrow's words lack the bite they might normally have, though Winter still shoots him a look.
"You must admit that its a difficult thing to believe."
"Specialist Schnee," Winter turned her attention towards James, "I realize how farfetched these claims seem. However, Ozpin is telling the truth."
"He is!" Ruby wilts as all eyes fall on her, glancing around the room before rallying, "I-I know it sounds super sketchy, Miss Winter Schnee, but I saw one of the Higher Beings in the Emerald Forest! I-If you had been there, your honour, you'd understand!"
"The giant slug," Qrow grunted as Winter mouthed " your honour? " to herself.
"Unn. Mother of the Green Children," Mato hummed, "Ah, that is to say, the Mosskin."
"You know about her?" Qrow asked.
"Not much," Mato admitted, "I'd never been all that interested in the old tales of higher beings. All I know is that the Greenpath was her creation, and once her home. I never often ventured into the Greenpath, but when I did I was careful of the Mosskin. They are a peaceful bunch. Provided you respect them and the Greenpath."
"Doesn't explain why she's in the Emerald Forest," Qrow grunted, "That is, if she's still there."
"It is difficult to keep track of our visitors," Ozpin sighed, "Heavens knows we've tried. They don't appear on security tapes, unless you know they are there."
Qrow gave a low whistle.
"Must be giving you a hell of a nightmare, Jimmy."
"Quite," it is a testament to how serious James is taking this that he barely gave Qrow a second look, "Hence why we've called you and Specialist Schnee to Beacon."
"Sir?" Winter Schnee asked.
"It is tradition before the Vytal Festival to begin for first year students to take on their first official mission with a veteran Huntsman. Tomorrow, we will be giving the students their...field trips."
"Oz…" Qrow began.
"Unlike your peers, you're field trip has already been decided for you."
Team RWBY's expressions shift as Ozpin's words fall on them.
"You mean-?" Ruby began, looking at him with wide eyes.
"Team RWBY is to investigate and, if possible, put a stop to the leaking of Hallownest into Remnant."
Team RWBY glanced at each other, and Ruby quickly called for a "team huddle". Ozpin waited politely as the girls whisper to each other, the Hollow Knight bending down to at least listen to the hushed conversation.
"You sure about this Ozpin?"
Qrow slid his chair next to his, and watched Team RWBY with a frown.
"As you said, they're the ones who started it. It seemed only fitting that they end it. In any case, Miss Schnee seems to be the only one able to navigate Hallownest with any accuracy."
"That's not what I meant," Qrow said flatly.
Ozpin glanced at his old friend, and see's the way he's fiddling with the silver ring on his finger. A nervous tic that Qrow had never quite been able to shake off.
"Qrow," Ozpin said quietly, "There is no one I'd trust with their safety more than you."
"I'm just saying it might be a bad idea," Qrow said gruffly, "These kids ended up in this...utter nonsense without the help of a bad luck charm like me. It's why you asked for Schnee over there too, right? To make sure I don't screw it up?"
"...I asked for Specialist Schnee because I believe that you'll need as much help as you can get. And it was Miss Schnee's semblance that started all of this. Perhaps the two of them will find a solution. And Qrow?"
"Hmm?"
"I trust you."
The tension in Qrow's shoulders sags away at that, and Ozpin for a brief moment feels guilty.
It hadn't been the first time he'd considered telling Qrow about the truth – the whole truth.
In the end he always decided not to burden him with the knowledge. Qrow already blamed himself on enough without needing to shoulder the world as well.
Ozpin ignored the gnawing feeling of guilt and pressed on.
"Sheesh, well if you're going to beg Oz," Qrow's grin turned sour, "Gonna blow having to babysit five brats though."
"At the very least you wont have to do it alone."
"You're going to send someone else with us?" Qrow asked curiously.
"Aside from Nailmaster Mato? Yes."
"Who?"
Team RWBY's huddle is broken as Qrow gave a sharp bark of laughter.
"Uncle Qrow?" Ruby asked.
"Don't worry about it kid," for the first time today Qrow looks genuinely amused, "You'll find out soon enough."
Ruby pouted at her uncle and Ozpin hid a smile by clearing his throat.
"Do you accept this mission, Team RWBY?" Ozpin asked. Team RWBY understand the gravitas of his words, for their expressions turn serious and Ruby Rose nodded.
"We accept our mission, Headmaster."
"Very well. Tomorrow, you will go into Hallownest along with your assigned Hunters. Due to the severity of this mission, you will be joined by more than one veteran Hunter."
"You mean Ruby's uncle and Weiss's sister," Blake clarified.
"Oh this will be soo exciting!" Ruby whispered. Weiss jostled her partner, but it is clear she's excited as well.
"I expect you to prepare for the mission accordingly. Our goal is unclear, as is our timeframe. Failure is not an option. Do you understand?"
The brief levity is gone and Team RWBY nod solemnly.
"Understood, Headmaster."
"Then for now, you are dismissed."
Ozpin waves them off as they hesitate, and they student's turn back to the elevator. Before they leave however-
"Wait, I almost forgot!"
Ruby Rose zipped backs towards his desk and once again slams the binder onto it. Ozpin raised an eyebrow.
"Thought you might want this, sir?" she laughed nervously, "It's the translated Hunter's Journal."
Ozpin took the binder, opening it. In neat print is an entry on a vengefly, alongside a cartoonish doodle of one.
"Very...impressive, Miss Rose," Ozpin said, and he means it. For someone who had till the other day spent her time in the infirmary, it was an impressive amount of dedication. "Are you sure you don't want to keep it, however? It might prove to be useful."
"Oh, this is a copy of the personal copy we made, its fine!"
"Ruby!" Yang called.
"Coming! Anyway, see you later Uncle Qrow! Weiss's sister! Bye!"
Rose petals and leaves drift towards the floor and the elevator doors close with a ding.
"She is...excitable," Winter Schnee said at last.
"That's putting it nicely," Qrow gave the binder a look, "Sheesh. That's the sort of tome Summer would craft."
"If only Miss Rose would show such dedication to school work," Glynda sighed.
"Why are you looking at me?" Qrow asked, a touch defensive. Winter snorted, and then looks chagrined at her response.
"Er, my apologies."
"No apologies necessary, Specialist Schnee. And what about you?" Ozpin closed the binder for later, and looks at Winter Schnee.
"Sir?"
"Will you accept this mission?" he asked plainly.
"Of course, sir."
"Even if it means working with him?" Glynda asked, motioning towards Qrow. Winter makes a face before nodding.
"Even then."
"Thanks," Qrow deadpanned, before making for the elevator, "Unless anyone needs me, I'll be leaving. Wanna join me, big guy?"
Nailmaster Mato, who'd been absently staring out of the office windows, started.
"Are you asking me?"
"Heavens know I wouldn't ask Jimmy."
"Hmm. Well, I shant refuse company," Mato said, before following Qrow.
"Please try not to cause a ruckus, Qrow!" Glynda called out after the two.
"Can't make any promises," Qrow fired back without looking. Before Mato entered the elevator he turned back towards them.
"I will ensure he comes to no harm."
The elevator closed before Ozpin can hear Qrow's response.
"I suppose that's better than nothing," Glynda sighed, pinching the bridge of her nose, "Now if you excuse me Ozpin, I'll be going too. There are papers to grade."
Glynda walked away, leaving Winter and James in his office.
"You are dismissed, Specialist Schnee," Ozpin said.
"Just a moment, Oz."
"James?"
James cleared his throat, moving to stand before Ozpin.
"I didn't want to bring it up before, in case…" James trails off.
"In case what, James?"
"It is a matter of secrecy," James said. Ozpin raised an eyebrow.
"What sort of secrecy?"
"I had intended to tell you. Eventually."
"James."
James sighed and rubbed his face. When he looks back at Ozpin his expression is stern.
"I want to add another member to this expedition into Hallownest. You said it yourself Ozpin, this is a serious matter. Far more serious than a first year team should handle."
"It's not as if I'm sending them alone," Ozpin pointed out. Winter Schnee said nothing, staring straight ahead as her general speaks.
"I know. And I believe you've chosen the correct team, given the circumstances.
"But you want to add someone else?"
"Yes," James hesitated for but a moment, "One Penny Polendina."
"Sir?" Winter asked, eyes wide as she snaps towards James.
"Do you have any objections, Specialist Schnee?"
"...No, sir," Winter said at last, clearly troubled. James sighed.
"You can speak freely, Specialist."
"It is just...Sir, don't you think its too early for her?"
"She must eventually face the field," James said, "Better sooner than later, and better under friendly supervision. In any case, we must put a stop to Hallownest before the Vytal Festival. It only makes sense to deploy her."
"James, do you mind elucidating me?" Ozpin asked. It is very rarely that he's in the dark, and he's not fond of the feeling.
James and Winter glanced at each other, before James turns to him.
"I suppose I should explain..."
….
"She's a what?"
Within my roots…
"So, you'll be joining us, big guy?"
"It was my intention to act as your guide during this mission of yours," Mato said.
Despite having been told that Mato is a giant alien beetle from a magical kingdom, and despite all of the things Qrow had seen in his life, he still has a hard time not seeing the fellow as just...a guy. The sort of guy you'd find in a frontier village. Honest, steadfast, large, strong. A pillar of the community. Usually dead, by the time Qrow managed to respond to distress calls.
Qrow made a face and tried to push the thought out of his mind. It doesn't help that he's running too sober for his liking.
"Well I won't say no to some native support. What do you say we hit a bar?"
"A bar?"
"Yeah, why not? Unless you don't drink?"
"I drink," Mato insisted.
"You sure? I won't loose any respect for you if you don't."
"Even the hardiest creatures need to drink."
Qrow almost nods, finally thankful that he's met someone who understands how stressful life can be without taking some of the edge off, when he realizes something.
"When I say drinking, I mean alcohol."
"Ah? What sort of drink is that?"
Dammit.
"Ooh boy, uh..." Qrow's mind blanked as he tried to find a way to describe alcohol.
"Is it a special drink?" Mato asked.
"Definitely, you could say that," Qrow scratched his chin.
Mato stared at him for a moment before nodding.
"Ah. Is it an intoxicant?"
"In a way..."
"I see. Well, I'm afraid I will have to pass. Us Nailmasters must keep our minds as sharp as our blades."
"Damn," Qrow sighed, "Guess that was doomed to fail anyway. You probably don't have permission to leave Beacon."
"The Headmaster asked me not to, yes."
"Right...Well, to the canteen I guess. Food's better than nothing."
Qrow set off towards one of the campus canteens, Mato following after him. The sunset casts an orange glow across the sky, and Qrow catches Mato staring at it.
"Careful, you might burn your eyes out if you stare at the Sun."
"Truly?" Mato asked, slightly alarmed.
"So its been explained to me."
"It certainly is bright...and that colour..." Mato trailed off.
"So, what is a Nailmaster anyway?"
This breaks Mato out of his entranced stupor, and the rest of the trip is passed by Mato explaining with gusto about the art of the Nail and the brotherhood devoted to it.
"So you're one of three?" Qrow asked as the canteen comes into sight. To his relief there aren't many students milling about. Two girls running off, and a girl and a boy at the canteen counter.
"Yes. Myself, and my brother's Sheo and Oro all learned from the Great Nailsage, before venturing out into the land to hone our arts. I myself am the master of the Cyclone Slash. Last I had heard from them, Brother Oro had crafted the Dash Slash, while Brother Sheo had perfected the Great Slash."
"Last you had heard from them?" Qrow asked.
It is difficult to read Mato, even for Qrow. However it is clear from the way he stands less imposing, and the way that his voice becomes lower, that this is a sore topic.
"We...grew estranged," Mato said eventually, "It had been my wish to create a school together, to pass on our skills. But Brother Sheo had moved onto other things. He had often spoken of wanting to try something new even when we were still students under the Great Nailsage. I do not begrudge him, though I hope that he still finds some joy in the art of the Nail."
"Hmm," Qrow could relate to this Sheo in some way at least. The idea of leaving behind the life of a Hunter for something else…some days it was achingly appealing.
"And what about your other brother?"
Right away Qrow realizes that he's asked a difficult question. Mato's posture becomes stiff and his voice becomes flat.
"Oro? We...did not leave on good terms."
"Sorry to bring up bad memories."
"No, no, you need not apologize," Mato sighed, "My memories of Oro are bittersweet. Even still, I hope one day that we might be able to talk again. I suppose that must seem strange."
"It doesn't," Qrow thinks back to his own sister. For all the bad blood between him and Raven – and there was plenty of bad blood – deep down Qrow hoped that she was still alive.
He accidentally bumped into the couple as they leave the canteen, and he grunted in apology.
"Sorry!" the green haired girl blurted out. The silver haired boy pulled her out of the way, and Qrow lets them get a few steps away before calling out to them.
"Mind if you give me my wallet back?"
The two froze, and Qrow knows they're torn between denial, flight, or if they're dumb, fight.
"Relax, I wont tell any of the professors. Have to admit, that was pretty slick work," Qrow nodded at the girl, who stared at him with wide red eyes, "But I need my wallet to eat and stuff. It's been a long day."
"Uh, yeah, sure," the girl tossed him back his wallet, and before he can say thanks the two are running off.
"Weird kids," he grunted, before turning to the old man running the canteen.
"That was kind of you," Mato said.
"Huh? Yeah, I guess," Qrow scratched his chin as he perused the menu, "Didn't seem worth it, getting them in trouble with their teachers just cause they got some rougher skills. Nothing against the Hunstmen Academies, but with the exception of Shade they don't really teach the...rougher parts of life."
"A skill is a skill. Should it serve to help one survive, so long as one doesn't not harm another unduly there is no foul to it," Mato said sagely.
"Surprising to hear someone like you say that."
"Is it?"
"Yeah. Not bad though. So, what do you want? My treat."
"Oh! Thank you kindly. Let me see..."
Within my roots…
"Ruby, what is this?"
"Uhhh," Weiss's team leader looks down at the thing she's currently trying to stuff into her pack, "A jar of cookies."
"...Why," Weiss finally said, massaging her temples.
Team RWBY's room is a mess, courtesy of four teenagers ripping the place apart to pack up the essentials. Though what was considered essential seemed to be subjective.
"Weiss," Ruby's voice is deathly solemn, "Have you ever eaten Hunter's Rations for days on end?"
"N-No?" Weiss tried to keep her tone firm, but its difficult with Ruby staring straight into her and kilometers away.
"It's awful," Ruby said, still staring at her.
"Oh yeah, it sucks!" Yang chirped cheerfully as she packed.
"We need to pack real food too," without turning her head Ruby pulls a packet of chips from somewhere and places it in her pack with a crinkle, "Trust me."
"Well...I suppose an army does march on its stomach," Weiss mumbled, looking away.
"Yes, which is why its more economical to pack things to fix the rations rather than snack food," Blake said, plucking the chips from Ruby's bag.
"Hey!" Ruby made to grab the snacks back, only for the Grimm's child to snap at her fingers with a hiss.
"My snacks..." Ruby mourned. Grimm's child grumbles before making themselves comfortable sprawled over Blake's shoulder like the world's strangest scarf.
"I've also eaten rations for days on end," Blake said wryly, tossing the chips to Yang who catches it and pops it open, "Which is why I know how to make them better."
"Ooh, now you're setting our expectations high," Yang grinned, "Looking forward to seeing if you deliver."
Blake stared at Yang for a moment before chuckling.
"I wont disappoint," Blake glanced back at Weiss, "It may not be high class hors d'oeuvres but..."
"I look forward to your cooking," Weiss shook her head, "In any case I've always been interested in other sorts of food."
"Can't we pack a few snacks?" Ruby asked.
"Didn't that Journal that brute gave you detail some recipes?" Weiss asked, "It isn't as if we'll be going out into a foodless waste."
"Whoa, you're willing to eat bugs?" Yang leaned towards Weiss.
"Well, that is," Weiss made a face, "I'd rather not, but like I said. I've always been interested in other sorts of food."
"...Not sure if I should feel insulted by you implying that commoner's food is basically eating bugs," Yang said slowly, "Or proud of you for your open mind."
"I said nothing of the sort!"
"I don't know what's worse," Ruby groaned and falls back onto her bed, "Eating bugs or eating rations."
"Think of it like this Ruby," Blake knelt down to pat Ruby's hand, "...Lobsters are basically ocean bugs."
"Blake!" Ruby sat up to glare at her.
"And they're pretty delicious," Blake continued solemnly.
"Ahh, now I'll never get that out of my head!" Ruby complained, rubbing her eyes as if to scrub the image away.
Weiss shook her head at the sight and turned towards the Hollow Knight and the Little Knight.
"Are you…?" she began. The two glance at her. Between them is a pack that is completely empty.
"...Let us know if you need help packing," she said at last.
The Hollow Knight titled their head and reached for their notepad, when someone knocked at the door.
And kept knocking.
"Who could that be?" Weiss groused as the knocking continued, incessantly, "Hang on!"
Weiss pulled open the door, and Nora Valkyrie almost punches her in the face.
"Oops, sorry, mind if we stop by? Thanks!" Nora pushed past a still stunned Weiss. Pyrrha Nikos shot Weiss an apologetic smile and waited by the door.
"Oh, ere, please come in," Weiss finally said.
"Thank you. And sorry," Pyrrha apologizes.
"Ooh, are you guys packing for the field trip? Isn't it so exciting, this is our first actual mission as hunters, well not our first and definitely not your first, I mean what with Hallownest and those gangsters and stuff, and isn't it weird that that Torchwick guy isn't on the news as much anymore, maybe you guys really scared him-" Nora said as she spun around, admiring the chaos of the room. Her hands were cupped around something.
"Nora, why are you here?" Weiss asked. After the words leave her mouth she realizes how rude they sound and she amends, "Not that you aren't welcome here. Team JNPR is free to drop by anytime."
"Except for Jaune," Blake deadpanned as she stared at her bookcase, Grimm's child sniffing the spines of the books Blake pulled out as she considered them.
"Except for Jaune," Weiss agreed.
"Sorry, he's a great guy but," Ruby shrugged her shoulders apologetically, "the guitar. And the poems."
"We're really sorry about that," Pyrrha said, blushing.
"Eh, no big deal," Yang shrugged, "He's stopped "serenading" Weiss after all."
"After the Hollow Knight threw him back into our room, yes."
"Oh, don't worry, Jaune's stopped for good ever since the dance-" Nora waved her hand.
"Nice moves by the way," Yang raised her hand. Without stopping Nora high-fived it.
"-Thanks, it was all Ren's idea, though don't tell him I told you that he gets embarrassed. Anyway ever since the dance Jaune's been asking Ren for advice on how to be smooth and stuff, talk about the blind leading the blind, but anyway Jaune pulled Ren out of the showers again to ask for some advice-"
"Excuse me?" Blake blinked, looking at Nora over her shoulder.
"-So me and Pyrrha decided to go for a walk to let the boys talk about boy things or whatever and we were by the canteen when we found this!"
Nora held out her other hand and uncurls it.
In the palm of her hands is a clump of dirt, and nestled in that dirt is a small, dark pink plant.
A plant that Weiss recognized.
"Thats..." Weiss begins. A shadow fell over her and she looked up to see the Hollow Knight standing over her. They glance down at her and nod.
"So it is from Hallownest!" Nora whispered.
Everyone in the room had huddled around Nora. In the sudden gloom, the plant's subtle glow could barely be seen.
"What is is?" Pyrrha asked.
"It's the thing from the Resting Grounds, right? That thing you talked about, that shot out Essence?" Ruby asked.
"It looks like it," Weiss frowned before meeting Nora's eyes.
"May I?" Weiss began, holding out her hands.
"Of course! I brought it here for you guys after all."
Gently, Nora deposited the plant into Weiss hand. The moment she did, Weiss aura crackled, her shoulder throbbed, and the single bulb of the plant glowed as if an ember within it had flared to life. Before their very eyes the plant twisted upright, colour bleaching from dark pink to a pale white. With a gentle chime the bulb opened, and a singular drop of Essence splashed onto Weiss.
"That was freaky," Yang whistled.
"Where did you find this?" Weiss asked.
"Just growing out of the cobbles near the canteen," Pyrrha answered.
Team RWBY glanced at each other. That something from Hallownest was growing right in Beacon – it was just another sign that more and more of Hallownest was leaking into Remnant.
"We better finish packing," Ruby said, and as if it was an order Team RWBY moved.
"Do you guys already know what your field trip will be?" Pyrrha asked.
"Er, kinda?" Ruby winced, "Sorry, its-"
"-A secret to everyone? Don't worry, my lips are sealed!" Nora mimed zipping her grin closed, before quickly zipping it back open, "Oh, wait! Let me get a lil pot for that plant!"
"Oh, thank you?" Weiss began as Nora zipped out into the hallway.
"I'll just go grab one of Ren's!" Nora chirps, opening Team JNPR's dorm room, "Oh, Jaune, you still haven't let Ren get dressed? Anyway, Ren, can I give Weiss one of your little plant pots? Thank you!"
Blake leaned towards Pyrrha, opened her mouth, and closed it once she saw the slight preemptive blush across the girl's face.
"Thanks!" Nora zipped back into the room and gave the Hollow Knight a small ceramic pot, "Here ya go! Anyway, we gotta get going and pack ourselves. See ya later!"
"Good luck on your trip!" Pyrrha managed to say as Nora grabbed her hand and pulled her back into JNPR's room.
"Nora-!" Ren's voice drifted across the hallway just as the door shut.
Team RWBY's door clicked shut, leaving Weiss standing in the center of the dorm room, the plant still in her hands. She blinked out of her stupor, and with care placed the plant within the pot – the Hollow Knight steadily holding it for her.
"Do you think we should take it with us?" she asked softly, brushing the dirt of her hands.
The Hollow Knight stared at the plant, holding the pot close to their chest, before giving a small nod.
"Right."
Even as Weiss nods, even after the Hollow Knight turns back towards their own pack, even as Weiss goes back to her own packing – the soft whispers that had begun when Nora dropped the plant into her hands echoed in Weiss's ears.
Within my roots…
I feel the Vessel…
The seals have broken…
Seek me out...
This took a while, but it was a really fun chapter to write. It also ended up being longer than planned - so long it got split into two parts. Scenes just kept popping up.
Thank you all for reading! Tune in next time for: "The Queen, Part II"!