The stop in Vale was a short one, only long enough to switch boats to head to Beacon, but to Adele, it felt like an eternity. Buildings smaller than the ones she was used to from growing up in Atlas grew towards the sky, aged and rough rather than slim and sleek.

"Hey, you need any help with your bags?"

Adele giggled as she turned to look at Sky. "Why, you want more to burden you down, pack mule?"

Bags seemed to choke the boy, a stark contrast to Adele's meager two bags. "Ha ha, so funny," he countered, accidently dropping one of his burdens. Snatching it quickly from the ground, Adele offered him a warm smile and helped him to the boat, the distraction welcomed with open arms.

The straight slunk pass the city docks, older buildings, gorgeous natural stone walls, and the fleeting nature and grounds before reaching the docks of Beacon itself. As they came into view, excitement and relief bubbled in Adele's stomach.

"So any hopes and dreams once we get there?" Sky asked, leaning against a guardrail beside her.

"Hone my skills and learn how to doing something good with the abilities I was born with. You?"

"Can I be honest?"

"I'd prefer it if you were."

Sky sighed and looked at her with his piercing eyes. "I'm coming here 'cause it's expected of me. Sure, I have the right stuff, but honestly, the idea of fighting monsters…"

"Scares you."

"Yeah."

"It's supposed to, Sky; it's natural. I don't think there's a sane person out there that thinks running towards Grimm is a good thing. In the long run," she said, placing her hand on his, "you have to do what's right for you…and not get caught up with us weirdos with weapons running towards the Grimm."

The boat hit the pier and Adele raced towards the front to be among the first to unload.

"Ever eager, huh? Hold up a minute, will you?"

"I kinda want to just get settled now, and nap," she replied. "A nap sounds really good right about now."

He smiled at her briefly, a shadow descending over his countenance. "So this is goodbye for now?"

"It's not like I won't ever see you again. We are in the same class."

"Yeah," he muttered.

"Hey Sky," a man's voice called from a ways off. The two teens turned towards the voice, and Sky lit up in recognition. The owner, clad in warrior's armor, had fiery red hair, a piercing stare, and a countenance that exuded confidence and ego. "I thought you'd never get here."

"Cardin," Sky returned, clasping hands with the other boy. "It's great to see you again. Adele, this is Cardin. He's an old friend."

"Yeah, before Sky's family here moved their butts halfway across Remnant. Nice to meet you. Sky," Cardin said, turning his attention towards his friend again, "you would not believe the Faunus freak I saw here earlier today!"

And with those words, Adele froze like an animal caught in a trap.