Prologue Part 1: Family Times

~~Oroseia~~

~~ Saturday, July 13, Year 983 (Noon)~~

A tanned woman sat alone on a bench in the middle of a lively amusement park, her black hair with red highlights on the edges flying with the weak wind. Her red eyes focused on an old, worn-out book resting in her hands.

She sighed as she twirled her ink pen, "If only I remembered this particular verse…" She muttered.

"MOMMY!" Shouted a young boy's voice, "MOMMY LOOK!"

The woman lowered her book to look down at a smiling boy holding a plushie of a brown bunny.

"Jurabi," The woman said to the boy, Jurabi, as she put her book away, "Back already? How was the balloon shoot challenge?"

"It was so fun!" Jurabi cheered, "I managed to get the prize in one try!"

"In one try, huh?" The woman asked with a smile as she lifted her son in her arms and hugged him, "That's my sweet boy! Maybe I should ask you to win a prize for me."

"Yeah," Jurabi said, "I want to play it again, but this time I want to do it with you."

"I…don't think that's a good idea," The woman said, "Shooting games aren't my…" Her son's expression changed into sadness, hearing the decline. She sighed before she smiled, "Alright, you win this time. Enough with the pouty face."

Jurabi's eyes lit up as he cheered, "Yaaaaaaay!"

After his mother brought him to the ground, Jurabi took her hand and led her to the balloon shooting stand.

After paying to participate, both Jurabi and his mother played the game of shooting the mobile balloons within one minute. In the end, Jurabi had a higher score than his mother.

"I win!" Jurabi cheered.

"Blast, my own child bested me," His mother said with a smile, "Seems like I need to watch out. That same child has the potential to surpass me at my own job."

"Hehe, there's no way that's happening, Mommy," Jurabi said with a smile, "You're the bestest huntress everyone knows!"

"I am one of the bestest huntresses, but there's no way I'll ever be the best-est Jurabi Alisen!" His mother said as she received the prize, a stuffed teddy bear, from the stand owner and handed it to Jurabi, "Now what do you say to the kind man?"

"Thank you!" Jurabi shouted as he waved at the stand owner before he and his mother began walking through the amusement park.

"I think it's time for lunch, don't you think, Jurabi?" His mother asked.

"Mmhm!" Jurabi nodded.

On their way to the food tent, Jurabi's mother took out a cell phone to call someone. Afterward, they ordered pizza for a family of four and sat together at a free table.

"Now, I wonder if your dad gets here before the pizza gets cold?" His mother asked.

"Hey!" Called a male voice.

Jurabi and his mother looked over at a blue-haired walking towards the table.

"How was the UFO ride, Daddy?" Jurabi asked.

"It was quite the experience, Jurabi," Jurabi's father said with a smile as he sat across the two, "I never thought I would feel like I'm being crushed inside a machine like that."

"Before we get into our fun ride stories, we should eat our food before it gets cold," Dana reminded them.

"Oh, come on, Dana," Nitorin protested, "Jurabi wanted to know what my experience with the UFO was like. No reason to deny the kid of a fun story," His stomach started growling, "Ahehe, but I am hungry. Let's talk while we eat."

"Absolutely," Jurabi said as the family sat down and began eating.

"I assume you two are having fun as well?" Nitorin asked.

"Definitely," Jurabi said with a smile, "I spotted these weird bags full of strange, colored cotton. I think they were called cotton candy."

"Oooh, I haven't seen those yet," Nitorin said, "I heard they taste amazing."

"Mommy, can we get ourselves some before we leave?" Jurabi asked.

"I see no harm in it," Dana said, "However, I prefer keeping you away from sugar overdose, Jurabi."

"But I don't have any issues eating sugar, Mommy," Jurabi replied, "It's only sour food I take issue with."

"That's true," Nitorin said, "We wouldn't want another lemon incident, do we?"

"Daddy! That was one time, and you know it!" Jurabi shouted with a blush.

"Hehe, I'm just playing with you," Dana said, "Why don't we go see the horse relay race after lunch?"

"A horse relay race?!" Jurabi asked in excitement.

"That's right," Nitorin said, "It's not as grand as the ones you see on tv, but you get to see horses!"

"Count me in!" Jurabi cheered.

"W-watching horses?" Dana asked, feeling her legs shake a little, "S-sorry, but I'd rather be anywhere else than near a horse."

"Now, Dana, you shouldn't pass up a chance like this because of your fear of animals," Nitorin said, placing a hand on his wife's shoulder, but seeing Dana still shiver in fright, Nitorin let out a sigh and said, "I get it. It's a scary experience interacting with animals, but horses are not as bad as you think. These are trained horses, so they shouldn't hurt anyone who gets close."

"Daddy's right," Jurabi said, "We'll be there with you, Mommy. Your Little Guardian Jurabi will protect you if the horse becomes a meanie."

"Hehe, okay, if you say it's safe, then I will trust you, Little Guardian Jurabi," Dana said.

A cell phone began ringing, interrupting their conversation.

Dana took out her cell phone, "Sorry, one moment," She said as she picked up the call and walked away to a secluded spot, "Yes?"

"…"

Dana's eyes widened as she furrowed her eyebrows, "Really? Is it urgent?"

"…"

"That doesn't sound good, sir, but why call me?" Dana asked, "You know I have the week off from duty, correct?"

"…"

"I see…" Dana replied.

Jurabi didn't know who his mother could possibly be talking to. He leaned over to his father and whispered. "Daddy, what do you think Mommy's talking about? Or who is she talking to?"

"It must be her job at the Academy," Nitorin said.

"Ooh, Oroseia Academy…" Jurabi asked, "Do you think Mommy will go back there?"

"Here's to hoping that doesn't happen," Nitorin said, "We have this rare chance to be together as a family. Who knows when we'll get it again?"

"…I understand," Dana said, "How long will the mission take me?"

"…"

"I see…" Dana said, "Very well. I'll be ready for the call tomorrow. Good day, sir," After Dana hung up the phone, she returned to her seat.

Jurabi had an excited look on his face, while Nitorin was full of worry.

"Another hunter assignment, Mommy?" Jurabi asked.

"Yes," Dana replied with a sigh, "On my week off, no less."

"Hey, your work is keeping everyone safe," Nitorin said, placing a hand on his wife's shoulder, "Sure, I don't like having to work on my off days either, but it must be important, right?"

"It is, but…" Dana trailed off.

"So, you're going to fight Grimm again, Mommy?" Jurabi asked, cutting into Dana's train of thought, "Are you going to use that cool sword Daddy made for you?! How many Grimm are you going to fight?! Is it going to look awesome?!"

"Slow down, Jurabi," Dana said, "It's nothing as exciting as you make it seem."

"Aww…" Jurabi whined, "But seeing a top huntress like you in action sounds so cool!"

"Maybe on TV, but there's no way I'm going to let you anywhere near the battlefield, mister," Dana said.

Jurabi let out a growl as he pouted. He never understood why his mother was adamant about keeping him away from a fight between a huntress and a Grimm.

"Anyways, we have two hours left before we have to leave," Nitorin said, changing the topic, "How about we go on the UFO ride next?"

"Yes!" Jurabi cheered as his pout vanished at the sound of the UFO ride.

For the rest of the day, the Alisen family did their best to enjoy the fun times at the park until nighttime came, and they had to return home.

XxxxxxxxxX

~~Kage City: Alisen Residence~~

~~Monday, July 15 (Evening)~~

Jurabi was sitting on the living room couch, looking at the television with a gleeful smile. Most of the channel programs are related to the lives of hunters and their duty to protect Vastel. Other channels he watched related to building machinery and weapons. An old broadcast of the finals match of one hunter with a gunlance fighting against a huntress wielding duel daggers was presented to him now. Though the hunter with the gunlance is at a disadvantage speed-wise, he more than made up for it with sheer power and durability. But the huntress had speed and could swiftly move around the hunter's shield. The entire match was even, and it was difficult to tell who would win, but ultimately, the gunlance hunter won.

Whenever he sees the hunter he roots for win the match, Jurabi can't help but silently squeal in excitement.

"Ah! Hunters are so cool!" He wishes he could shout all this but doesn't want to make loud noises in the house, "Their confidence, fighting style, dust affinity, and especially weapons. I wonder if Daddy will make me something that cool."

"I'm home~!" Dana called as she walked through the door and hung her jacket to show her shoulderless, white t-shirt.

"Welcome home, Mommy!" Jurabi called, "How was your day at work?"

"Tiring, but it's better now that you greeted me," Dana said, walking over to the couch. She glanced at the hunter's match on the television and smiled, "Well, that's a trip down memory lane."

"It's a recording of last year's Oroseia Tournament," Jurabi said, "Did you ever participate in it?"

"Only once," Dana said, "But unfortunately, I lost."

"Wow, someone beat you, Mommy?" Jurabi asked.

"Yeah, don't ask for the details," Dana said, scratching her head, "It's nothing more but a stain on my pride."

"Aw…but I'm curious," Jurabi said.

"I'll perhaps drop hints on my experience in the tournament, but it'll be up to you to pick up on them," Dana said, winking at her son.

"Hehe, then I'll keep my ears wide open," Jurabi said, "I spend so much time imagining how you handle your duties as a huntress. How you swing your sword, shoot your gun built into your sword, and move your body around."

"Oh, stop, Jurabi," Dana said with a smile, "You'll make me blush."

"I'm serious," Jurabi said, "I just…I wish I could get a weapon of my own."

"Maybe when you're older," Dana said, "Wouldn't want you running around the house with a giant gunlance, now do we?"

"You've got the point there," Jurabi said before his stomach began to growl, "Ugh…I've been so focused on the tournament recording I forgot to eat."

"Ahehehe, you are something special, Jurabi," Dana said as she started heading to her room, "I'm going to shower. Afterward, I'll start cooking dinner, so don't snack on anything until then. Be sure to tell your sister too."

"Okay, Mommy," Jurabi said as his gaze moved up at the clock for six p.m. He frowned, thinking about his father.

Fifteen minutes passed. Dana had returned to the living room wearing her red nightgown.

"Okay, let's see what would be perfect for tonight's dinner," Dana said as she entered the kitchen.

"Mommy?" Jurabi asked, walking up to his mother.

"Yes, dear?" Dana asked.

"Will Daddy be home for bedtime?" Jurabi asked.

Dana went silent before turning around to Jurabi.

"I mean, he wasn't able to be home for bedtime yesterday," Jurabi said, "I'm just wondering if it's possible if we…"

Dana sighed, "I'm sorry, dear, but your guess is as good as mine. Your father has a bad habit of staying so late at work."

"But-"

"And before you ask, no, I don't know what he is making that could cause him to be late," Dana said as she readied the cooking station with ingredients, "How does Sweet and Sour Chicken sound to you?"

"Sweet and Sour Chicken?" Jurabi asked, tilting his head, "Is it good?"

"It's absolutely delicious," Dana said, "Your father loves it so much and always cooks it whenever he gets down. I figured you would like to try out my meal version."

"Hmm…" Jurabi sat on a stool, swinging his legs forwards and backward. He thought about it briefly before nodding, "Okay, as long as it doesn't make me sick."

Dana sighed but smiled, "You sure like poking fun at my past cooking skills. Well, I'll be sure to end that today."

As Jurabi watched his mother cook dinner, he recalled the morning when Dana had the phone call. He couldn't help but be curious.

"Mommy, what was your phone call at the fair?" Jurabi asked.

"That, I will not tell you, Jurabi," Dana said, cutting the chicken into bite-sized pieces, "My job demands I keep information on my calls a secret, even to my family."

"Well, will you at least tell me where you went?" Jurabi asked.

"…Let's just say I went somewhere important with some friends," Dana explained, seasoning the chicken with salt and pepper.

"That's not much," Jurabi said, "Anyone can do that, Mommy."

"True, but that is all I will tell you," Dana said, placing the cornstarch in a black, shallow bowl.

"Aw…" Jurabi sighed, "How about where you learned to be a hunter?"

"Ah, I never told you, did I?" Dana asked, looking at her son before going back to her cooking, "Well, I figured you wouldn't be so curious about the life of a hunter. So, what do you want to know? As long as it isn't classified information, I will share as I cook."

"Okay, so tell me where you learned to be a huntress?" Jurabi asked, "I believe it was called Oroseia Academy?"

"That's right," Dana said, cracking three eggs and pouring the contents into a separate shallow bowl. It isn't your average school. Hunters and huntresses are trained to fulfill the Guardians' wishes: To keep all life safe from the evils plaguing this world. We are also taught everything about strategy, aura, dust, and even the Grimm."

"So, does that mean hunters are allies of justice?!" Jurabi asked, his eyes beaming up in excitement.

"Aheheh, you could say that, but there's more to it," Dana said, lightly beating the eggs in the bowl.

"What do you mean more? I thought you guys just learned to fight Grimm," Jurabi said.

"There is more to fighting Grimm than just swinging your weapon at them, Jurabi," Dana explained, dredging the chicken in cornstarch before dipping it in the eggs, "You know there are people who study the Grimm and their behavioral patterns?"

"Umm…are they called a Grimm scientist," Jurabi said.

"Yes," Dana said, "You'll learn the proper term at school, but studying Grimm is also one of the courses required alongside combat classes." Dana transferred the chicken to a skillet. "We study their bodies, behavioral patterns, habits, how deadly they are. Then, we form strategies to use the knowledge we learn to our advantage in our fight against them."

"Oh, I see," Jurabi said, "So if I take these classes, will I become a hunter with you, Mommy?"

"Jurabi, we already had this discussion," Dana said, giving her son a stern look as she continued dipping more chicken in the skillet, "By the time you grow up, you won't need to become a hunter."

"Again, with that?" Jurabi asked, "I still don't understand what you mean. You're talking like the Grimm are just going to vanish."

"Who knows? Perhaps the Grimm will just vanish," Dana said with a giggle as she gathered the browned chicken and placed them on a baking dish, "Either way, think of another dream aside from being a hunter."

"But…but, I want to be like Honkai Girl…" Jurabi said, "She was a huntress too who fought against giant Grimm to protect people, all while having these cool powers and these two awesome pistols and-"

"Oh boy…he's at it again…" Dana said, letting out a deep sigh as she added sugar, ketchup, vinegar, soy sauce, and garlic powder into a bowl to combine them together.

"Whoops, I almost went off track," Jurabi said, "But as I was saying, I really want to be a hunter, Mommy. I heard bad things from my classmates. They think the Grimm are growing stronger."

"And I will reassure you; our hunters are trained to be the best," Dana said, pouring the mixture over the chicken, "I know things seem bleak, but that is what we are here for. To protect Vastel from the Grimm with our strength. If you're worried about that, you don't need to be a hunter to contribute. Just the thought of you wanting to lend us your strength is good enough."

"Still…"

After she placed the chicken into the oven to cook, Dana walked over to Jurabi and patted his black hair. She smiled and hugged her son, "Don't feel bad about it, okay? If the world isn't as overrun with Grimm as it is now, I would have considered allowing you to be a hunter and fight alongside me. But I am your mother first and foremost. If I lose you out there…the pain would be unbearable."

"…I get it, Mom…" Jurabi said, "I don't like it…but I understand."

"Good, that's all I ask," Dana said, "Now, why don't you go find something to do for the next fifteen minutes. The Sour and Sweet Chicken will be done in no time. Then I have to cook the rice."

"Okay, Mommy," Jurabi said as he jumped off the stool, moved to leave the kitchen, and returned to his room.

XxxxxxxxxX

~~Alisen Industries Testing Lab~~

Jurabi's father, Nitorin, sat in a testing lab with his crew of engineers and scientists, examining two giant talons sealed inside a container in the testing room. These talons had a strange, black substance surrounding them. Above them was an energy transfer device.

"Alright, let's give this another try," Nitorin ordered, "Begin the test again—this time, increase energy output to 90 percent."

"Yes, sir," said one of the scientists as they began the testing process again.

The energy transfer device booted up and fired compressed energy onto the talons. Upon impact, the claws began to glow red, and the black substance surrounding them turned into black flames.

Everyone felt the weight of anticipation. All had high hopes of success this time; however, the flames died again like in the previous tests.

"Another test failure, Mr. Alisen."

"Damnit!" Nitorin shouted in frustration, "And we set it at the highest energy output we could handle! What more do those things want?!"

"Based on our observation of the past three testing sessions, there is a possibility the energy we possess is still too weak compared to what these talons require," Theorized a scientist.

"Is that so?" Nitorin asked.

"Our research team theorized such," Another scientist said, "These are the talons of a Zenith Grimm we are dealing with, after all."

"Hm…" Nitorin pondered on what his next course of action will be.

"Pardon me, Mr. Alisen," Spoke a female voice, "I have some news for you."

Nitorin looked at a faunus female scientist with red hair and goat horns.

"Dr. Vongarus, I assume this news is urgent?" Nitorin asked.

"Yes, it is," Vongarus said.

"Very well, we'll talk in my office," Nitorin said, turning to his staff, "That's it for tonight, everyone. You're free to go home," Nitorin said to his team, hearing a silent yes from one of the tired workers.

After most workers left the building, Nitorin took Vongarus to his office to speak in private.

"So, Rachel, what news you're so eager to show me?" Nitorin asked, sitting down at his desk.

"Of course," Rachel said as she took out an advanced notepad and showed a projection of a crystalized rock, "A mining team in Ragnarok Mountain uncovered a new mineral."

"A new mineral?" Nitorin asked, raising his eyebrows as he looked closely at the rock projection.

"Yes, it shines a bright glow and does not emit any elemental dust," Rachel explained.

"And how hard is this mineral?" Nitorin asked, "The hardest we've managed to unearth was diamonds."

"You'll be surprised to hear this," Rachel said, "This mineral survived impact from a missile during the testing process," She showed him recorded footage of the testing of the mineral's durability. The testers launched a missile at the mineral, hitting it directly. However, after the smoke cleared, the mineral stood firm with no scratch.

Nitorin was shocked, "This is a massive jump from diamonds! What is the energy output?"

"You won't be able to believe this, sir, but it stands at one hundred thousand mega-joules," Rachel said.

Nitorin's jaw dropped, "That…that is incredible! Add that to the armor soldiers use, and they can withstand a hit from more than simple missiles. Or maybe…this is the energy output we're looking for. Is there a name yet for this mineral?"

"A name hasn't been released yet, but the council will discuss it on Wednesday," Rachel explained.

"Perfect," Nitorin cheered with excitement, "Get in touch with our contacts in the council and have a meeting set up for tomorrow. With the right words, I might persuade them to let us analyze this mineral."

"Yes, Mr. Alisen," Rachel said.

Nitorin's computer began to make a loud beeping sound.

"Mr. Alisen, Mr. Achilles is waiting for you," said the front desk operator.

Nitorin pressed a button on his computer, "Tell him to come to my office. I'm finishing up my current conversation."

"Yes, sir," said the front desk operator.

Nitorin smiled at Rachel, "Thank you for the news, Rachel. Once you make the calls, you can go home and rest."

"Thank you, sir," Rachel said, bowing respectfully as she left the room.

A few minutes later, a middle-aged man with brown hair slicked back and wearing a black business suit entered Nitorin's room.

"Hard at work again, Nitorin?" The man asked.

Nitorin gave the man a half-assed smile, "Maybe you can take a guess, Gerald."

"Heh, I know you better than anyone," Gerald said, sitting at the chair across Nitorin's desk, "You always work hard. Too much, if you ask me."

"I am well aware, but today I feel even more energized despite it getting late," Nitorin said as he took out a bag of tea leaves and microwaved water, "Can you guess why?"

"Another guessing game?" Gerald asked, shaking his head, "Well…based on your earlier smile, I'd say you found a breakthrough in Project Therion."

"Precisely," Nitorin said as he finished making tea, "Tea?"

Gerald accepted the tea, and both talked about what Rachel had shown him about the mineral.

"A mineral able to withstand something that strong…if we can get our hands on it…" Gerald said, in deep thought.

"See? You and I think alike, Gerald," Nitorin said, "Armor made out of such a material sounds like an excellent idea, but imagine if we use it as the container for the Zenith Grimm's power."

"Extracting the dark atoms of a Zenith Grimm and placing them into such a small rock…" Gerald said, "There are risks involved, Nitorin. Are you aware of that?"

"I have been aware of the risks since starting this project, Gerald," Nitorin said, "I wouldn't have expended ten years' worth of time and resources if I didn't believe we can use those talons and the dark atoms to their full potential."

"Don't forget you wouldn't have gotten this far without the funding I provided you," Gerald said.

"I know, getting these talons was both exciting and scary for me," Nitorin said, "Nothing frightens me more than having the tools to make everything right but not having the money to see it all through."

"Well, you don't have to worry about any of that," Gerald said, "Anyways, I came here to talk to you about something. Something couldn't wait until tomorrow."

"Uh oh…when a conversation starts like that, I get nervous," Nitorin said.

"And you are right to feel that way," Gerald said, "I'm afraid to say this, but the Vastel Council's been asking me for an insider's report on any information you're withholding from them about our progress."

Nitorin rolled his eyes, "Oh, for crying out loud...Do they know anything about patience?! They expected us to get results in five years when we're unsure how long it will still take!" Nitorin let out a loud sigh, "My company can only do so much with the technology we have. We're so close too, but we need a viable power source with enough firepower to kill a Zenith Grimm. But to think the Vastel Council is stupid enough to even think about throwing an opportunity like this away."

"I feel your pain, Nitorin," Gerald said, "A lot of money from my investment company was spent on this weapon you're building. The council is full of cowards if you ask me. They're unwilling to take risks for the sake of humanity."

"Yeah," Nitorin said as he finished his tea, "If I can harness the powers of the dark atoms…it will change everything for everyone."

"Perhaps we can even eliminate every Grimm in existence at long last," Gerald said.

"…That too, but more importantly, my son and daughter won't have to grow up in our world," Nitorin said, staring at his teacup.

"Son and daughter?" Gerald asked, realizing who he was referring to, "Oh, so that's who the little kid running around the lab last month was?" Gerald chucked a little at the memory of Jurabi, "Heheh, no wonder you scolded him so hard. I thought he was just a kid you were babysitting."

"Gerald, I know you know I'm married with kids," Nitorin said.

"Haha, I'm just jesting," Gerald said, "I understand why this matters a lot to you. A kid like him shouldn't have to live in a world like this."

"Yeah, after I heard what happened to Dana's team four years back…I just can't let Jurabi go through something similar," Nitorin said.

"As much as I am an outsider in this, I must speak my mind," Gerald said, leaning forward, "It takes a strong will to make a difficult choice. I'm sure every hunter understands that, including your wife."

"But leaving her teacher to die…" Nitorin began.

"To save herself and the rest of her class?" Gerald finished with his rhetorical question.

"…You're right," Nitorin said, "I shouldn't doubt my wife's decisions. She'll turn me into Grimm goo if she hears me saying this mopey stuff."

"Good, because it'd be bad if Alisen Industries' owner showed back up to work with a brooding face," Gerald said before finishing his food.

"Heh, you make me sound like some kind of adult emo," Nitorin said.

"Hey, you said it, not me," Gerald said as they laughed before saying their goodbyes for the night.

XxxxxxxxxX

~~Alisen Residence~~

Once dinner was finished, the mother and son. Jurabi loved the Sour and Sweet chicken and begged his mother for seconds. Both of them had finished their dinner, despite one person being absent.

As Jurabi placed his empty plate in the sink, he let out a sigh and glanced at his mother, who was covering up the dinner plate full of food with a long napkin.

"Is Dad going to be late again?" Jurabi asked.

"I'm afraid so," Dana said.

"But…this is the fourth time this week," Jurabi said, "What in the world could he be building this late at night."

"I'm afraid I know as much as you do, Juarbi," Dana said, "Regardless, you need to go on to bed now. It's getting late."

"…Okay," Jurabi said silently, holding back this gloomy feeling, "No bedtime story, I guess…"

Dana gave the boy a reassuring smile before she picked him up with ease and gave him a warm hug, "Your daddy is a busy man who has a lot of people counting on him," She said as she walked upstairs to his room.

"But…I'm counting on Daddy to be here too," Jurabi said as they entered his room and his mother placed him on his bed, "I want us to finish this bedtime story together."

"And we will, dear," Dana said, laying the bed covers over her son, "But Mommy and Daddy must first make sure the big, bad Grimm don't interrupt our story time. So, give us a little more time. Can you do that for us?"

"…Okay," Jurabi said as he lay down.

Dana felt her heart drop after hearing the disappointment in Jurabi's tone.

"You promise we'll finish the story together?" Jurabi asked.

"I promise," Dana said before she kissed her son on his forehead. She approached the door and waved at her child, "Sweet dreams, Little Guardian."

"Good night, Mommy," Jurabi said as Dana closed the door behind her.

Silence soon followed. Jurabi laid his head on his pillow and thought about his dad and why he always came home late. It saddened him to miss out on another opportunity for a bedtime story. He turned over in bed and tried to let his body fall asleep, hoping for another chance tomorrow.

Hours passed, but Jurabi couldn't fall asleep. He sat up on his bed and let out an annoyed sigh, "I need some water…"

He stood up, quietly opened the door to his room, and went to the living room. But he stopped when he noticed the kitchen light was still on. He heard Nitorin's voice coming from the direction of the kitchen.

"Dana, you need to understand," Nitorin told Dana, "This project is important. The future of Vastel is hanging on whether or not I can do this. If I don't—"

"Let me stop you there, Nitorin," Dana's voice was heard, "I understand the weight of the situation you and your company are in and the possible 'benefits' from this project of yours, but if you keep this up, you and the kids will drift apart."

Jurabi silently snuck to the corner and peeked his head out to see his parents talking with each other, "Mommy? Daddy?"

"I know," Nitorin said, "But if I don't get any new results or even get close to a complete, working weapon, the council will shut down the project. Not only will my company's reputation be in shambles, but worse, Jurabi…he'll live his lives the same way as everyone else—in fear."

"I understand all too well," Dana said, clenching her chest, "Jurabi has a good heart and wants to help people, but he doesn't understand what it is like to be a hunter. He will end up enduring pain beyond any he has felt. Just like I did that day…"

"Pain?" Jurabi thought to himself.

"Exactly," Nitorin said, clenching his fists, "We are so close to having the means to fight back against the Grimm more effectively, but the council just wants to throw it away if it shows even the slightest hindrance."

"To be fair, Nitorin, you are dealing with a power none of us understands," Dana said, "We don't even know if the power of Ragnarök's talons can be harnessed. Not to mention the potency of the dark atoms you plan to extract and use. What if it all backfires and turns people into Apathy, or even worse, brings Ragnarok to Kage City? Whether or not you agree with the council, the risk is still too high."

"I know the risks are dangerous, but I believe it is worth it," Nitorin said, "Imagine a world where we don't have to risk our lives fighting Grimm—where we don't have to worry about when they'll attack us or when they'll claim another defenseless life. That's the world I want Jurabi to grow up in—not this…this hellhole!"

Dana stayed silent, listening to Nitorin's rant about his issue with the current state of the world. She couldn't blame him for feeling this way, especially with what he's gone through.

"I'm sorry, Dana…I…" Nitorin held his hand up against his chest as he gritted his teeth.

Dana got up from her seat to sit beside her husband, hugging him to give him as much comfort as needed, "It's okay, Nitorin. I promised my team and all of you, my family, to rid the world of those monsters."

"And I made a promise to you too, Dana," Nitorin said, "Remember?"

"My past…it isn't important to me, Nitorin," Dana said, "What matters to me more is what I have now, but to keep the people I love alive, I have to fulfill my duty."

"Mommy's past?" Jurabi asked.

"If only everyone could face reality like you do, Dana," Nitorin said with a smile, "Do you still have that same goal you swore years ago?"

"Yes," Dana said, clenching her fists, "I want to kill Ragnarok and every other Grimm in the world more than anything…I will do this because I don't want to lose you or Jurabi. Both of you mean so much to me."

Nitorin gave his wife a warm smile before closing his eyes and connecting his forehead with hers, "You two are all I have too. If I fail…what kind of example am I setting as a father?"

"I know," Dana said, closing her eyes as well, feeling concerned, "I'm just…a bit worried for you, that's all."

"What worries you?" Nitorin asked.

"It's just…" Dana said, "I've had this uneasy feeling for a while. I haven't felt this way since my mission five years ago."

"Perhaps you're being paranoid," Nitorin said, "Have faith in me, Dana. Everything will work out once this project is finished."

"…Having faith…is what got my professor killed…" Dana said, her face full of regret.

"That won't happen to me," Nitorin said, caressing his wife's cheek and looking into her eyes, "I promise."

Jurabi watched as they gave each other a soft, long kiss. He was confused but knew he shouldn't stay long, so he silently and quickly returned to his room and sat on his bed to process the information he overheard.

"Project Therion…Mommy's past…Zenith Grimm?" Jurabi thought as he lay on the bed, "What were they talking about? I have a feeling they won't like it if I ask them about it tomorrow, but…I can't help but feel worried now…"

But there was no point in wasting energy thinking about the conversation. Instead, Jurabi fell asleep.

XxxxxxxxxX

~~The Next Day~~

~~Tuesday, July 16 (Noon)~~

Jurabi walked down to the basement. At the end of the staircase was a sealed door. From behind the door, banging sounds complemented by machinery could be heard.

Jurabi pressed the button next to the door, which made a loud buzzing sound on the other side. Not a few seconds later, Nitorin opened the door.

"Hey, Daddy," Jurabi greeted with a smile.

"Jurabi, back from school?" Nitorin asked, his face covered in sweat.

"No, we're on break, remember?" Jurabi asked.

"Ah, yeah, break," Nitorin said, scratching his head before chuckling.

"What are you working on in there? Is it a new hunter weapon?" Jurabi asked.

"I'm sorry, but that information stays with me," Nitorin said.

"Oh, come on!" Jurabi shouted, "Is it a surprise for me or something?!"

"You could say that, but I won't confirm nor deny anything," Nitorin replied.

"Aww…" Jurabi pouted. He decided to use his secret weapon to sway his father's decision: His best puppy-dog expression.

"No, I'm not going to fall for that, Jurabi," Nitorin said as he silently stared into his son's eyes, which grew more prominent. The father sighed and said, "Well…I suppose I could show you one cool project I'm working on."

"Really?!" Jurabi asked with a wide, excited smile.

"Just don't tell anyone about what you see in here," Nitorin said, "The last thing I want is for everyone in the world to find out about any of my secret projects."

"It's okay, Daddy, your secret is safe with me," Jurabi said with a smile as Nitorin opened the door to his lab.

Inside was an enormous room split between a crafting and testing station. The crafting station had several mechanical parts on a table, while the testing station had a long, black locker in the middle of a platform.

Nitorin brought Jurabi to the platform in front of some sort of container.

Jurabi scanned the locker from top to bottom before turning to his father, "Is this a locker of some sort?"

"Yes, it is," Nitorin said, "But what's inside…" He took out a remote and pressed a button.

Seconds later, the locker slowly began to open up. Inside was a suit appearing to be standard on the outside; however, it had small armored pieces around the shoulders, indicating its capability of taking powerful hits.

"Whoa! No way!" Jurabi shouted, "Is this?!"

"That's right," Nitorin said, "Jurabi, I present to you…" A long pause followed before Nitorin scratched his head, "…the name is a work in progress…"

"It looks kinda like the suit Honkai Girl uses during her adventures! Except…Honkai Girl is a girl, but I know this would suit her if she were a boy!" Jurabi shouted, "Daddy, you're making one for me?!"

"Not just for you, Jurabi, but for the hunters who protect us," Nitorin explained, "I've been tasked with creating weapons and inventions to make their jobs easier."

"Ooooh! So, if I become a hunter, I can get this armor, too," Jurabi said.

"Heh, I doubt your mother will agree," Nitorin said.

"I know…she never wants me to be a hunter," Jurabi complained, "I don't know whether she wants me to have fun or not."

"Now don't go saying stuff like that," Nitorin said, "Your mother has her reasons."

"Reasons she won't tell me," Jurabi pouted, "All I get when I ask why are 'You'll understand when you're older' or 'You're not ready for the answer.' I don't want to hear stuff that makes no sense."

"Well, your mother never was good at being straightforward," Nitorin said, "I'm not a hunter. I only build weapons for them, but I have a basic understanding of what hunters go through."

"You do?" Jurabi asked.

"Yes, wait here," Nitorin said as he went to his work table, took out a busted-up grenade launcher, and brought it to Jurabi, "Take a look at this grenade launcher."

Jurabi scanned the grenade launcher and noticed the tiny bloodstains on the outer and inner parts, "Blood?"

"That's right," Nitorin said, "In most cases, the weapons I repair are covered in blood. It is unknown to me whether it was from the wielder or the wielder's comrades. I don't even know if the wielder survived their mission, and I'm just repairing a weapon for the next hunter. Based on that alone, I can say that being a hunter is nowhere as grand and happy as the adventures you watch on TV."

"They aren't?" Jurabi asked, his eyes widened.

Nitorin remained silent with a worried look, "Should I even be explaining this to him…? He's only a kid…"

"Daddy?" Jurabi asked, concerned with what his father could be muttering.

"…S-sorry, Jurabi," Nitorin said, "I got lost in thought. I must ask you: Do you want to be a hunter after hearing what I've told you?"

"…I…" Jurabi said, feeling the hesitation within his heart.

"Hm…why do you want to be a hunter?" Nitorin asked, "If you are hesitating now, your conviction isn't as strong as you believe."

"…My conviction…isn't strong?" Jurabi asked.

"Yes, your drive to become a hunter. If it is based on a fictional character, it won't be enough," Nitorin said, "I became a mechanic because I want to make the world a better place with my inventions. I want to help people less fortunate than those in this city or the massive cities throughout Vastel. People…like the unfortunate ones who disagree with the council."

"What do you mean?" Jurabi asked.

"Ah, did I say that?" Nitorin asked, "I put my foot in my mouth…Don't mind that. Anyways, I'd like to hear what drives you, Jurabi."

"What drives me…hmmm….I…I don't think I know anymore," Jurabi asked, "It used to be Honkai Girl and seeing the cool weapons and tournament matches…" He thought back to the night he eavesdropped on his parents. The one statement his mother said rang through his mind.

"Jurabi has a good heart and wants to help people, but he doesn't understand what it is like to be a hunter. He will end up enduring pain beyond any he has felt. Just like I did that day…"

"There's nothing wrong with learning things as a kid, Jurabi," Nitorin said, placing a hand on his son's shoulder, "After all, you're eight years old. You have more than enough time to find your place in this world. All you need to do is trust yourself to find that conviction, and once you do, grasp it and never let go."

"I see…" Jurabi said as he sat down to think about what he was told.

"No need to worry about that today or tomorrow, though," Nitorin said.

"…" Jurabi remained silent until a question came to mind, "Daddy? Is Mommy going to be okay?"

"What kind of question is that?" Nitorin asked, raising an eyebrow, "Your mother has always been okay. She has her sweet tooth, but her huntress work keeps her in shape to compensate for the pounds she gains."

"N-no, that was the wrong question," Jurabi said, "How did you come to know Mommy?"

"How I came to know her?" Nitorin asked, "Well…it's a peculiar story. It's nothing like the prince and princess story people usually tell."

"With you two, I would be surprised if that were the case," Jurabi joked.

"Haha…very funny," Nitorin said sarcastically, "Okay, now how should I explain this? It was during a field test for one of my company's new inventions. My adoptive father and I were told the field was empty, but she was lying on the ground."

"Really? Mommy was just…there?" Jurabi asked.

"Yes," Nitorin said, "She looked as though she was attacked. No one knows what inflicted her wounds that day, but I think a Grimm was responsible. So, we brought her to the hospital to be healed up. I rarely left her side unless the doctors ordered me. During her time there, your mother was so shy and barely talked, but I got her talking with enough visits and a few conversations."

"Huh…that story leaves me with many questions," Jurabi said.

"I know it seems confusing, but that is how I met your mother," Nitorin said, "Why the sudden interest if you don't mind me asking?"

"Oh, um…I was just wondering," Jurabi lied, "You both are so close."

"Well, I'm glad you asked," Nitorin said as his gaze moved to the ground, "I know your mother and I are always busy at work. As a result, we can't come together as a family normally needs to."

"I-I don't mind, Daddy," Jurabi said, "Mommy told me it's all because you both are working hard to protect us. I want to be with you both beyond eating dinner together, but I'm happy with what I have now."

"Are you, truly?" Nitorin asked, "Be honest, Jurabi. I don't want you to be feeling neglected. It will make me feel as though I'm messing up when I need to be the loving father you deserve."

"…Well…I want to go somewhere with you and Mommy," Jurabi said, "Together as a family."

"Hm, that is something we could do," Nitorin said, "But with the way Vastel is with the Grimm, travel is dangerous. Perhaps a trip to a restaurant…"

"We don't have to think about it now. I know you have your work and such to worry about," Jurabi said, "I'm willing to wait for the day when we can do something fun. So long as you promise that day will come."

"Of course, I promise you, your sister, your mother, and I will do something fun together as a family," Nitorin said as he smiled at his son.

"Hehe, thanks," Jurabi said with a smile.

XxxxxxxxxX

~~Unknown Location~~

"…Dana?" Asked a muffled voice. Silence followed briefly afterward until the voice called again, "Dana!"

Dana opened her eyes when she heard the voice call out to her, sounding like a cry for help. The woman took a quick look at the thick dark forest. The darkness was so dense Dana was unable to see two feet in front of her nose.

"I can't see anything," Dana said, shocked and confused. The huntress had no idea where she was or how she even came here, but she noticed something odd about the darkness around her, "This darkness…it feels familiar," That was when the woman's face froze in terror. She realized the darkness she was in was abnormal, "I-it can't be. Is this—?"

"Dana…" The same voice called out to Dana, sounding like a man's.

Dana turned around to face the direction the voice had come from—deeper into the darkness. She took a deep breath and calmly released it through her mouth to ease her nerves.

With a calm mind, Dana proceeded to walk through the dark forest. Despite the absurdity of the dark, Dana had no problem traversing through. She kept her guard up, her heart heavily beating.

Dana went to an open area with old stones paved onto the ground. In the distance, behind a black, murky mist, she could barely make out an old building.

"This place…" Dana said, remembering the tragedy that took place here.

Dana felt a hand tightly grab onto her right shoulder. Her reflexes quickly kicked in, and she jumped forward before turning around, already in a defensive stance. Amidst the darkness, Dana made out a lone figure who appeared to be a man.

"Who goes there?!" Dana asked. No response came. She said more firmly, "I told you to identify yourself!"

"…Dana…" The voice said, sounding like the one calling out to her before.

Much to Dana's dismay, this voice was starting to sound familiar. A wound in her heart began to reopen as the figure stepped forward, close enough for Dana to effortlessly tell who it was.

"No…you can't be…" Dana said, in complete denial, as she dropped her guard.

The figure was a man with long, blue hair with lavender eyes. His outfit consisted of a black suit with a red shirt underneath.

Tears started to form in Dana's eyes as she placed her hands over her mouth, "P-Professor Rashi?!"

"Dana," The man Dana called Rashi said. He smiled warmly before saying, "It's good to see you're okay."

Dana tried to hold back the pain inside her heart all these years, but she couldn't stop her feelings from pouring out. She ran to her long-lost teacher, yelling, "Professor!" She leaped into Rashi's arms and gave him the biggest, emotion-filled hug she could.

"Whoa there," Rashi said, "You're a lot taller now, Dana, so be careful knocking me over."

"Rashi…" Dana whispered, wheezing with every breath she took, "All this time…they kept telling me you were…dead! Since the hunter search-and-rescue squad returned your weapon to the monetary, I desperately wanted to believe you were still alive!"

"Dana…" Rashi whispered.

"I'm sorry! I'm so sorry…I wasn't strong enough to save you! If only I—"

"There, there, Dana," Rashi said, with a soothing voice that could calm a raging bull, "There will be no blaming yourself while I'm around."

"B-but…"

"That day…when Ragnarok attacked us…we were all rendered powerless," Rashi said, "You all were lucky to have made it out alive, given Ragnarok's reputation as the most dangerous Zenith Grimm."

"No…" Dana said, shaking her head, "It wasn't luck. We all would have died that day if you hadn't stayed behind."

"That doesn't matter. You've endured so many hardships, but in the end, you became one of Vastel's strongest hunters," Rashi said, "I couldn't be any prouder of you."

"Huh?" Dana asked, a bit confused. Rashi somehow knew that information, "How do you know all of that?"

"I've been watching over you, Dana," Rashi said with a smile, "How else could I have known?"

"What?" Dana asked, noticing the darkness around him was lifting, but only because most of it started seeping into Rashi.

"You've made a wonderful family too," Rashi said, "A loving husband and two wonderful children. I'm jealous, Dana. But I wonder…how will you react if, say, all those beloved people you love…were to suddenly drop dead?"

"Professor?" Dana asked, "What's gotten into—"

That was when Rashi grabbed Dana's throat, holding the huntress tightly.

"Gaaah!" Dana gasped, trying to pry Rashi's hand off her neck, "P-Professor…what…are you—?"

"But how cowardly of you…" Rashi said with an evil chuckle. His eyes became as black as the darkness consuming him, "Even if I sacrificed me, you didn't work up the courage to stay at my side!"

"Wh-wha…?" Dana asked, shocked and hurt to hear her own professor say those words to her.

Rashi gritted his teeth angrily, and his eyebrows furrowed, "Why did you leave me to die, Dana?! Why is that Grimm still alive?! When are you finally going to take revenge?! Answer me!"

"P-Professor…" Dana gasped, starting to lose air, 'P-please…stop…"

"Can you hear my pleas?! Is my suffering falling on deaf ears?!" Rashi asked angrily, "We were once a happy class, almost akin to family, and yet you abandoned the man who kept the eight of you together!"

"Gah…I can't…breath…ah…" Dana gasped for air as her grip tightened.

"And now…to insult all of the love I brought to you, you go on with life!" Rashi shouted, "Do I matter to you anymore, Dana?! Will you still allow your classmates to suffer the wounds in their hearts after they lost me?!"

"I…promise you…I…I will kill…Ragnarok…" Dana breathed.

"More empty words…" Rashi growled, "Having a family has poisoned your heart and strength. One way or another, you will end my suffering. Even if I have to use other means to persuade you…"

"N-no!" Dana shouted, pulling out enough strength to try and fight back against Rashi's grip, "I won't let…you hurt them!"

"Mommy!" Jurabi's voice shouted from the forest.

Dana's eyes widened in fear when Jurabi jumped out from the darkness, "Jurabi?!"

Rashi gave an evil smile when he looked at Jurabi, "So this is your son? I expected better from you, Dana."

"Let Mommy go, you meanie!" Jurabi shouted angrily.

"J-Jurabi…!" Dana shouted, "Run! Get out…of here…before you get hurt!"

"I'm not running, Mommy!" Jurabi shouted, "I'm going to save you!"

"I would be more concerned for myself if I were you, little boy," Rashi said with an evil smile.

Not long after Rashi uttered those words, dreadful darkness hid behind the unaware Jurabi. The darkness took on a form familiar to her—the Zenith Grimm: Ragnarök. Though it was covered in shadows, Dana made no mistake in recognizing it.

Dana wanted to scream out to Jurabi to warn him of the danger behind him, but it was too late. When Jurabi turned around to look at the monster behind him, Ragnarök had already opened its mouth, filled with black flames. Without hesitation, the beast breathed a stream of black fire at Jurabi.

Dana reached out to Jurabi, tears falling from her eyes as she watched her son be engulfed in black flames, "JURABI!"

XxxxxxxxxX

~~Alisen Residence~~

~~Saturday, July 20 (Morning)~~

"JURABI!" Dana screamed at the top of her lungs. She was in a complete frenzy, "NOOOOO!"

"DANA!" Nitorin screamed, trying to hold down his wife with as much strength as he could muster. Jurabi stood in the bedroom after hearing their mother's screams. He watched in worry, wondering what could be wrong with his mother.

"DANA, IT'S ME!" Nitorin shouted, roughly shaking Dana's body, "WAKE UP!"

Dana didn't take long to open her eyes after hearing her husband's voice. She gasped for air, trying to calm down after what she had experienced. She glanced at her family and knew how much she worried them with her screams.

"Nitorin?" Dana asked. When her eyes stopped at Jurabi, Dana felt fresh relief, "…Jurabi!"

"Thank god you're awake," Nitorin said, "When you wouldn't wake up for the past two minutes, we both got worried."

"Are you okay, Mommy?" Jurabi asked.

"I-I'm fine," Dana said, noticing she was sweating a little.

"Did you have a bad dream?" Jurabi asked.

"…Something like that," Dana said, hesitant to call what she went through a simple dream. She got out of bed and hugged both her children tightly, "But I am so glad that dream wasn't real."

"What do you mean, Mommy?" Jurabi asked.

"…Oh, sorry," Dana said, releasing them from the hug, "Please don't mind what I said. Thank you all for worrying about me, though."

"Jurabi, you can return to your room now," Nitorin said.

"What about Mommy?" Jurabi asked.

"She just had a bad dream, so like she said, it's nothing to worry about," Nitorin replied.

"…Alright," Jurabi said as he hesitantly left the room.

Once Jurabi left, Dana sat back down on the bed. Nitorin closed the door and gave his wife a severe look as he sat down on the bed with her.

"What was all that about, Dana?" Nitorin asked.

"I-It was nothing," Dana said, not wanting to burden Nitorin with the same nightmare she had.

"Dana, it's me," Nitorin said, placing a hand on her shoulder, "You can tell me anything. Whatever your nightmare, reality will be a completely different story."

"You don't know what I saw, Nitorin," Dana said.

"I don't know because you won't tell me what happened," Nitorin said, placing a hand on Dana's, "Please, Dana, let me help you."

Dana was hesitant initially, but she didn't want to worry her family any further. She decided to tell Nitorin about everything in her nightmare, from when she encountered Rashi to when Ragnarök killed Jurabi.

Nitorin's mouth gapped open in shock from hearing the story, "God…no wonder you were screaming Jurabi's name."

"And it all felt so real, too," Dana said, shivering a little, "What if…what if Professor Rashi is alive?"

"Dana…" Nitorin whispered. He wanted to disagree with Dana and remind her there was no way the professor who taught her everything as a hunter could have been alive for ten years. But how could he tell her something so heartless? He knows how much Dana's professor meant to her. So how could Nitorin hurt Dana? He wouldn't.

"And if he is alive," Dana continued, "What about Jurabi? Will he be…?"

"That won't happen, Dana," Nitorin said, "Our son being killed, I mean."

"But…"

"Listen, I know you're feeling scared right now," Nitorin said, "You hate seeing the suffering of others, especially when it is our children who are suffering, but that's why you continued living on as a strong hunter, remember? You wanted to use your strength to protect everyone, right?"

"Yes, I do," Dana said with a nod.

Nitorin smiled at her response and hugged her, "Then the kids and I will be just fine with you keeping us safe. We trust you and every hunter in Vastel with our lives. You just need to do your best out there, and we'll do our part in cheering you on."

"Nitorin…" Dana said before she took a deep breath to calm down, letting out a happy smile, and returned the hug, "Thank you. Hearing you say that means a lot to me, my dear."

"Don't mention it," Nitorin said as he broke the hug, "Will you be okay going to work?"

"I will," Dana said, "Just because I had a nightmare doesn't mean I can sit out on patrol duty," She said before she muttered, "…as much as I wish that was the case."

"Hehe, no getting out of work, dear," Nitorin said, "I'll go check up on the kids and make breakfast while you get ready."

"Of course, darling," Dana said as she and Nitorin kissed each other quickly.

Nitorin left the room and entered the living room, where Jurabi patiently waited on the couch, "Jurabi? Why aren't you in your room?"

"I'm sorry, Daddy…" Jurabi said, "But I can't stop thinking about Mommy. Is she really going to be okay?"

"Heh, how many times do I have to tell you?" Nitorin said, chuckling, "Your mother just had a nightmare that scared her. Nothing more to it."

"Mommy was scared?" Jurabi asked, "Of what?"

"…This is between you and me, Jurabi," Nitorin said as he crouched down to be at eye level with Jurabi, "Your mommy saw you get hurt in her dream. That's what scared her and also why she screamed your name."

"Oh…I have to apologize to Mommy, then," Jurabi said.

Nitorin let out a little laugh as he gave his son a light pat on the head, "There's nothing to apologize for. Your mother is a strong hunter. A little bad dream is nothing to her."

"Really?!" Jurabi asked, feeling his mood lighten a little, "That's a relief. I wish I'm as brave as Mommy."

"One day you will, little sport," Nitorin said, "Now, how about I whip up some breakfast? Do waffles sound good?"

"Oooh, yes!" Jurabi said, drooling already, "I'm so hungry I could eat a horse."

"Alright, waffles it is," Nitorin said.

After Nitorin finished cooking breakfast, Dana came out of the room feeling better in her huntress outfit.

"Mommy, are you feeling any better?" Jurabi asked.

"I'm feeling much better, Jurabi," Dana said, "I'm sorry for worrying you both over a silly dream."

"I don't think it's silly at all," Nitorin said, "If Jurabi gets hurt, I wouldn't know what to do with myself for letting it happen."

"Still…" Dana began.

"What matters is that it's all behind us now," Nitorin said, placing the family waffle breakfast on the table, "Now, let's eat up. We've got a long day ahead of us."

"Ooooh~!" Jurabi's eyes glittered after laying eyes on the food.

"Now, Jurabi, don't even think about stealing other people's portions," Dana scolded her son.

"What?! Uh, no! I wasn't thinking about doing that at all," Jurabi shouted, rubbing his head, "You must be imagining things, Mommy."

"Uh-huh, and I'd love for it to stay that way, young man," Dana said as the rest of the family laughed as they enjoyed their time together.

XxxxxxxxxX

~~Unknown Location~~

There was a dark room with only a television screen as a light source. A man sitting in his chair with three dust crystals in his hand—one red, one green, and one blue. He watched the news, broadcasted on the television, report about the recent dust robbery in Kage City with delight.

"It sure feels good to have your work acknowledged," The man said as he placed the dust crystals down.

"Boss Fuchou," Called a man wearing a mask bearing the face of a dragon.

The man named Fuchou let out an annoyed sigh before saying in a deep voice, "Didn't I tell you not to call for me during my break?"

"Sorry, sir, but there's an important call for you," The masked henchman said, "It's from that faunus group. Eclipse, was it?"

Fuchou stood up from his chair and turned around so the light from the opened door could shine on him.

Fuchou wasn't a man; he was a Komodo Dragon faunus with scaly skin, slit irises in his eyes, and a gray dragon tail. The man's hair was black, and his muscles appeared extremely tough. His face's cheekbones stood high from the neck, and his teeth were sharp enough to tear a door off its hinges.

He wore a long, purple, sleeveless, open coat with black combat pants and metal knee guards. The pants are tucked into a pair of black steel-toed boots. He also had a couple of black gloves with a plane metal mask sitting on his face with black, bulletproof glass covering the area where his eyes were.

"Eclipse, huh?" Fuchou asked, "They better be asking us to help them on anything other than some stupid suicide mission."

"Whatever it is, they're offering much more money than any of our normal contractors," Said the masked henchman.

"Very well," Fuchou said as he picked up the remote and turned off the television, "This had better be important."

He later went into a communication room to pick up the call pinging on the computer. Once he did, he heard a deep, unrecognizable voice using a voice-changing system to hide the caller's identity.

"Greetings, Drago Fuchou," The caller said.

"I heard you had a job for me. The leader of Eclipse, I assume?" Fuchou, whose first name was Drago, asked, "Or shall I call you by your codename?"

"Who I am and my importance in Eclipse is of little concern to you," said the voice.

"Okay, Deathwatch it is, then," Fuchou said, "So what do you want? If it involves killing…"

"We require your "expertise" in thievery," Deathwatch said.

"Kind of you to add the compliment there," Drago said, "But my skills don't come cheap, you know. And depending on the target, I'll add a large sub-tax fee in there too."

"The Eclipse has other means of payment, Fuchou," Deathwatch said, "Our money is needed for other projects."

"Then why the hell did you contact my gang and me?" Drago asked, "No money? No contract. No deal."

"We have a much better alternative to acquiring aid besides money," Deathwatch continued, "We've recently acquired some intriguing information about the Council of Oroseia Kingdom—information that, perhaps, someone of your history is searching for."

"Information on the council? Hah, what a good joke! We all know how impossible it is to get anything on those snakes!" Drago said.

"Ah, of course," Deathwatch said, "After all, how could we possibly get information about the death of a certain beloved politician."

"…" Drago froze before he leaned forward in interest, "You better be telling the truth."

"Will you trust the Vastel Council or us?" Deathwatch asked.

"Personally, neither of you sickos," Drago said, "But…you've already done more for me than those idiots sitting on their comfortable chairs. So, tell me the details of our job."

"I knew you would come around," Deathwatch said as a display of the newly discovered mineral was shown, "Your job is simple: This mineral is theorized to have the unique compatibility to harness the dark atoms of a Zenith Grimm."

"Whoa, slow down! You already lost me!" Drago shouted, his eyes widened in shock, "A mineral that can harness dark atoms potent enough to kill even S-rank hunters? Is that even possible?"

"Believe what you will. My sources informed me Nitorin Alisen has convinced the council to give the mineral to Alisen Industries for study and eventual usage," Deathwatch said, "It is likely the human plans on extracting dark atoms to build his secret weapon."

"Whoa…a secret weapon?" Drago asked, "This is the first time I've heard of something like that. You don't think it's…"

"Oh, yes, Project Therion is not just a mere rumor," Deathwatch said, "We have an insider feeding us all the information on Nitorin Alisen. According to this insider, the testing phase will begin five days from now. You are to acquire the mineral with the dark atoms inside it. How you do so is of no concern to us as long as you bring it to us unscathed."

"You speak of this mission like it's going to be easy," Drago said, "There is Mr. Alisen's huntress girl we need to worry about. How do we handle her?"

"I'm sure you and your gang of thieves can figure that out," Deathwatch said, "Unless this information isn't that important to you."

"…Fine, you have a deal," Drago said, "But this information better be worth every second we're out there risking our necks."

"Oh, it's worth more than worth your whole lives," Deathwatch said, "Until we meet again."

The transmission ended.

Drago took a deep breath and pushed a button to call someone, "Zima. Get the men ready. The Drago Gang has an important job to do tomorrow."

"Sure thing, Boss," said a female's voice on the other line.

"Nitorin Alisen…" Drago said, "Whatever you plan to do with that power…"

"…it'll only end in tragedy."


Alisen Arc Opening Song: Goya no Machiawase by Hello Sleepwalkers. [Noragami]

Jurabi Therion: Hello, ladies and gentlemen. My name is Jurabi Therion, and welcome to my RWBY AU fanfic, The Vastel Guardians.

This story will follow our main character, Jurabi, on a journey that begins with his childhood. Where will that journey take him? Well...you will see soon enough.

I hope you enjoyed the prologue and this first chapter. I have conducted several rewrites, but this version will be my final draft.

If you love what you see so far, please leave a comment, review, follow, and favorite.

Check out my discord server and hang out with our fellow readers. The address will be below; the link is on my profile page.

Until the next chapter, everyone. Fare thee well.

Discord Address: xMYF8ggTjC