A.N.: I am rewriting the story, in hopes of finding a muse to help me finish the story. Enjoy :)

**Prologue: BAU HQ, Quantico**

Reid sat at his desk engaged in conversation with JJ when Garcia announced another case.

In the situation room, everyone was already assembled when Reid joined them.

"Hey Garcia, what's the update?" SSA Morgan inquired. Garcia, with her striking green highlights and dressed in a vibrant blue outfit, reported, "Portland, Oregon, has requested our help in investigating a series of murders. The first victim was Gran Hasting, 61 years old, married with 2 grandkids. Her body was found during her daily neighborhood stroll, and she had a G branded on her forehead." The crime scene images appeared on the screen, and even Reid and Morgan were visibly disturbed by the grim sight of the G symbol. Noticing Morgan's reaction, Garcia looked puzzled but continued, "The second victim is Theodore Hepp, a 49-year-old plumber. Like the first victim, he was branded with a G, but he also suffered fatal crossbow wounds to the windpipe. He was discovered in an abandoned apartment. A week later, Melisa Holmes, a 40-year-old housewife and mother of two, was tortured before being beheaded. The G was used as a symbol of the torture. Finally, yesterday, 16-year-old Kim Rian, a high school student with special needs, was found dead in her apartment with gunshot wounds to her head and heart. This time, the G symbol was marked on her neck. The Chief of Detectives specifically requested the BAU's assistance, but the Captain and lead detectives are against it, as they prefer to handle the case themselves."

Curiosity prompted Rossi to ask, "Why don't they want our help?" To which Garcia replied, "They have a dislike for federal agents and believe they can handle it on their own. Besides, they had previously caught a similar UnSub before he could strike again."

"Are they certain they got the right UnSub or could there be an accomplice?" Morgan inquired. Garcia promptly responded, "No, they are certain about the arrest. The UnSub confessed, and they caught him in the act. He was an intern at their precinct and had an obsession with a cop."

"Alright, team, let's get ready to move in 30 minutes," Morgan declared.

**On the Plane**

"So, what do we know so far?" SSA in Charge Derek Morgan inquired. JJ, who had been relatively quiet, finally spoke up, "The UnSub is escalating and growing more confident in his actions."

Rossi added, "But why did he torture the third victim and not the fourth?"

Former head of the office SSA Aaron Hotchner, who had stepped down due to pressure from higher-ups, chimed in, "That's a valid question. I have another one. Either he had killed before elsewhere, or there's something peculiar about the branding since it was present from the first kill; he didn't need to experiment."

In his usual lecturing tone, Reid calmly contributed, "The branding is a significant symbol—an old German font dating back to the time of the Grimm Brothers. Around that era, there were reports of killings with the victims being branded with this G symbol, known as 'Endezeichen' in German, meaning 'end sign'."

Morgan, intrigued by the mention of the Grimm Brothers, asked Reid, "Do you think the UnSub is imitating the original tales?"

Curious about the term 'imitating the original tales,' Garcia asked for clarification. Reid answered on Morgan's behalf, "The original Grimm Brothers' tales were not fairy tales; they were horror stories, where even the protagonists didn't necessarily have happy endings. Regarding Morgan's question, I believe the UnSub is adopting the role of a hunter, but in reality, he becomes the hunted."

"A Grimm that helps?" Morgan echoed his thoughts aloud.

Reid confirmed, "Yes, there's a rumor in my community that there's a Grimm in Portland who doesn't kill Wesen but instead protects them."

Morgan, finding some relief in the explanation, remarked, "Well, we'll soon find out."

**Police Station: Portland, Oregon**

Captain Renard called Burkhardt and Griffin into his office. "I've received new intel on the 'Fake Grimm' case. The good news is that we've identified corrupted DNA, which indicates that the perpetrator is Wesen. However, the Chief believes we need assistance from the BAU due to the unpredictable nature of the case." Detective Hank Griffin expressed concern, "Oh God, the Feds. How do we explain this situation?" while Nick Burkhardt, with his handsome appearance, brown hair, and hazelnut brown eyes, inquired, "Will they take over the investigation?"

Renard calmly explained, "The BAU cannot take over; it's one of their rules. As for the explanation, we'll handle it step by step, problem by problem, and we must avoid getting caught in lies."

**One Hour Later**

Nick and Hank sat at their desks after discussing with Monroe and Rosalie about the BAU's involvement. They decided not to directly ask for their help to avoid arousing suspicion. Instead, Monroe, with his expertise in mechanics, and Rosalee, an expert in natural medicine, drugs, and spices, would be introduced to the BAU as informants.

Shortly after, five individuals entered the office, unmistakably the FBI profilers. They approached Wu and inquired about Captain Renard's location. Hank noticed them and asked Nick about their background. Nick observed them keenly and began his profiling analysis, "The dark-skinned one is the team leader, but he hasn't been in the position for long. He grew up in a rough neighborhood and became a profiler due to childhood trauma. He also enjoys building things.

The tall agent used to be the team leader but stepped down due to causing some trouble; he's a widower with a child.

The oldest member seems experienced and could be the team chef, having started profiling early. He's financially secure but can't leave the job, having had multiple ex-wives and no known children.

The youngest is a genius with at least three #Masters; he could be a professor but prefers the challenges of the job.

The blonde agent is an accepted team member, likely in charge of choosing cases and liaising with local law enforcement. She's married with one child and harbors a significant secret unknown to others.

There was also a recent team member, who might have been killed on the job.

Despite the seriousness of their job the camaraderie among the team was evident. They had become an unspoken unit, each member trusting the others to bring their unique expertise to the table. It is clear that they would need this bond and trust as they delved deeper into the mind of this ruthless killer."

Hank, still taken aback by Nick's abilities, exclaimed, "Every time you do that, it surprises me. Should we go and meet them?" Nick, glancing at the captain's office, replied, "Yes, let's go."

**Ten Minutes Earlier, in Captain Renard's Office**

As Renard sat at his desk, a blocked number called his phone. He recognized the voice as Maisner's and switched to German to converse. Maisner informed him that he had arrived at a branch of the firm due to some problems that needed attention. Renard maintained a composed conversation and was curious about the call's purpose. Maisner mentioned some individuals being concerned about "Mister Grimm." Renard assured him that everything was under control and ended the call when interrupted by Sergeant Wu, who informed him about the arrival of the BAU.

Renard thought it wasn't happening so soon but told Wu to let them in. Five individuals entered, four men and one woman. SSA Derek Morgan introduced the team, and SSA Jennifer JJ Jereau explained her role as the media official and liaison with the local department. Captain Renard established some ground rules before welcoming them to Portland.

Morgan found Renard's request for specific rules unusual and suggested sending Hotchner and Rossi to the morgue while he spoke to the lead detectives. JJ asked to discuss media coverage, but Renard postponed it for later.

As Detectives Burkhardt and Griffin entered the room, Renard introduced them to the BAU team. Hank was in awe when Reid mentioned his three PhDs in Mathematics, Chemistry, and Engineering, along with Bachelors in Psychology and Sociology. They were then assigned their teams, and Nick playfully teased Renard before leaving for the investigation room.

JJ remained with Captain Renard and asked about their media coverage. Renard, a bit annoyed but composed, admitted they hadn't released any messages to the press as they were unsure about what to reveal.

**Meanwhile in the Case Room**

"So Detectives, what's your theory?" Morgan inquired. Nick replied, "Our current theory is that the UnSub sees himself as a hunter of the supernatural, imitating German folklore. He targets specific victims and appears inexperienced, as we found fingerprints at the fourth crime scene matching those from the others. The branding seems to be his way of marking his vicitims. And before you ask, the previous killer with a similar MO acted alone and had no suspicious contacts in prison!"

Reid, clearly impressed, asked, "Detective Griffin, do you have a geographic profile?"

Hank smiled and said, "Please, call us Hank and Nick. We're going to be spending some time together. As for a geographic profile, we believe he selects his victims based on something he's observed rather than the specific locations."

In his usual lecturing tone, Reid responded, "While that might be true, he still must have a comfort area or a place he frequents often, which could help us determine where he sees and selects his victims."

Morgan added, "Yes, but first, I'd like to visit all the crime scenes."

"Sure, Hank, why don't you take him, and I'll take Reid here to the second crime scene. We can meet up afterwards. Dr. Reid, if you don't mind, I'd like to borrow your pair of eyes," Nick proposed, surprising both Morgan and Reid, considering that Hank was the senior officer.

They all agreed to the plan and set out on their respective assignments.

**In Nick's Pickup**

"So how does someone so young and intelligent end up working for the FBI's Behavioral Analysis Unit?" Nick asked, genuinely curious. Reid replied, "While I was still at the University, the former head of the BAU, SSA Jason Gideon, came to lecture at one of my psychology classes. I found his work intriguing, and he took notice of my intellect. After completing my BAs, I went straight to the academy and then joined the BAU."

Curiosity piqued, Reid turned the question back to Nick, "You never took official profiler lessons, but your profiling skills are remarkable. How did you acquire such knowledge?"

Nick pondered for a moment before responding, "It's hard to say, but I think it might be something genetic, like a blood type."

"You believe your parents were also skilled profilers, but you're not entirely sure?" Reid inquired. Nick's expression shifted as he opened up, "When I was ten, my parents were killed in a car crash. However, my aunt had an uncanny ability to judge people. She always seemed to know when someone had done something wrong."

As Nick shared his past, something sparked in Reid's memory, but he couldn't quite place it. He had heard similar stories somewhere before.

Knowing they had a crime to solve and avenge the victims, Reid and Nick once again talked about the case. They carefully analyzed the branding and the signs of struggle, their expressions growing more serious with each detail they uncovered. Reid's keen observational skills and his ability to piece together the puzzle left Nick deeply impressed.

Oncearrived at the second crime scene, a vacant apartment situated in a shady, violence-prone Wesen neighborhood, they paused in their analysis. The dim lighting and eerie atmosphere added to the unsettling nature of their investigation.

Silently, they approached the apartment door, which appeared to have been forcefully opened. They drew their weapons and exchanged a glance, communicating without words. Then, Nick silently counted down from three to zero.

As they entered the apartment, they were met with a skinny addict in the kitchen attempting to find a vein. The man noticed Nick and Reid, panicked, and lunged at Reid. In response, Reid had no choice but to fire his weapon, ending the man's life.

However, in the chaos, Nick found himself pushed into the sink, which was unexpectedly filled with water. The sudden push caught him off guard, and he struggled to regain his balance, his heart pounding with adrenaline.

Reid's heart raced as he woged into a panic, realizing that the attacker was a female Blutbad, and the dead man on the floor was probably one too.

The woman had drawn a gun, not causing Reid to hesitate, but rather the dangerous situation she had put Detective Nick in – submerged under water, and shooting her might lead her to collapse on him, pushing him further into the water.

The woman, now armed with a gun, aimed it at Reid, making him hesitate to shoot her in fear of endangering Detective Nick. Despite the adrenaline pumping through his veins, Reid knew he had a duty to protect and uphold the law.

But before the Reid could make a decision the detective began to flinch. Rei got even more agitated, that he had problems to hold his hands and gun still. Everything in him screamed "Run".

Gathering his courage, he took a deep breath and attempted to shoot the woman in the windpipe, as he had learned from his mother. However, due to his trembling hands, the shot missed the mark, hitting her chest instead. The impact knocked her down, causing her to lose her weapon.

Reid cautiously approached the injured Blutbad woman, kicking her weapon away while keeping his own aimed at her. He watched as she tried to stop the bleeding, but he couldn't find the strength to go closer.

His attention turned back to Detective Nick, who was flinching in pain. Reid's nerves were on edge, and he struggled to steady his hands and focus. Everything inside him urged him to flee from this dangerous situation, but his sense of duty prevailed.

As he observed Nick's condition, a noise from outside startled him, causing him to momentarily lose sight of the wounded woman. He instinctively pointed his gun towards the door, ready to defend himself and Nick from any potential threats.

Finally, the door opened, and Reid was prepared to shoot the intruder until he realized it was Morgan, accompanied by Detective Griffin. The sight of familiar faces brought both relief and exhaustion, and Reid called out, almost in a scream, "Morgan!"

Unable to hold himself together any longer, the overwhelming stress and fear took its toll on Reid. His trembling hand caused his gun to slip from his grasp, and then everything went black as he succumbed to the strain of the harrowing events.

**On hour earlier at the Second Crime Scene**

As they arrived at the first crime scene, the ambiance was somber.

The victim's house stood grandly in the neighborhood. The surrounding area was peaceful, with lush greenery and well-kept lawns. The crime tape marked the area where the tragedy had occurred, and the detectives began to examine the scene. The feeling of mourning was palpable, knowing that this once peaceful place had become a site of horror.

The scent of decay hung in the air, a haunting reminder of the violent act that had taken place there. Hank shared the victim's background and how her body had been positioned. Morgan was impressed by Hank's attention to detail and his dedication to seeking justice for the victims.

As they finished examining the scene, the two shared their findings and thoughts. The gravity of the situation weighed heavily on their shoulders. They knew that time was of the essence, and with the UnSub still at large, they had to act swiftly.

Morgan, having an unsettling feeling, proposed that they should join the other two at the first crime scene. Hand, knowing Nick's hang to finding himself in trouble, agreed.

Leaving the second crime scene, Morgan and Hank rushed to rejoin their teammates at the first location, feeling a sense of urgency and concern. Their instincts urged them to stick together for reassurance during the tense investigation. Without speaking, they navigated through the city streets with determination, drawing closer to their destination. As they approached the apartment complex, their sharp eyes scanned for danger.

When they reached the entrance, their hearts pounded in anticipation. As they ascended the staircase to the crime scene, they noticed the door to the apartment slightly ajar. A sinking feeling gnawed at them, realizing that the UnSub might still be inside. They shared a knowing look, knowing they had to be cautious. With guns at the ready, they slowly pushed the door open, revealing the dimly lit interior.

Entering Morgan and Hank- with their guns drawn- they first noticed the lifeless male body sprawled on the ground, followed by the bleeding female body nearby. Only then did they hear the weak voice saying, "Morgan," and they saw Nick and Reid. Nick was lying on the ground, and Reid had lost consciousness.

Each partner quickly moved to their respective companions. Morgan tried to rouse Reid, who eventually regained consciousness but was visibly weak. Supporting Reid, Morgan helped him lean against a nearby wall as he gradually regained his senses.

Meanwhile, Hank checked Nick's pulse but couldn't detect any sign of life. He couldn't accept the possibility that Nick was gone, whispering, "Please, Nick, let it be a side effect from the Cracher-Mortel that you can come back from the dead!" He began performing chest compressions, and after a few tense seconds, Nick coughed, expelling water from his lungs, but a steady pulse was still absent.

Reid was now fully aware, and he noticed Morgan leaning over him. Morgan asked, "Everything okay again, buddy? What happened? You passed out right when we came in." Reid replied, "I just ran out of energy. I remember everything."

He struggled to find the right words to convey the events without giving away too much, as he noticed the other detective present. "Well, first a junkie attacked us in his Wesen form. I shot him, and he's the dead body. Then Nick and I continued to check the other rooms. In the kitchen, Nick was attacked by another Wesen. She held him underwater while I tried to figure out how to help him. He began to convulse, so I shot her and disarmed her. Nick was unconscious, and I was about to check his pulse when you guys arrived. By the way, how is Nick?" Reid inquired.

Morgan turned to see Nick still lying on the ground, and Hank attempting to revive him. Though Morgan knew that Nick was likely gone, he asked Detective Griffin, "Detective, how is your partner?"

Hank responded with evident concern, "Hanging in there, but don't call 911!"

Morgan found Hank's response suspicious, but he refrained from making the call and answered Reid, "He's hanging in there!" Morgan expected Reid to be relieved, but instead, Reid's expression grew sadder. Curious, Morgan asked, "What is it, Reid?"

Reid responded, "I know this isn't fair, but he is not only a cop but also... how can I put this lightly... Nick is also a 'follower of the G.'"

Before Morgan could respond, Hank, who had overheard their conversation, confirmed Reid's suspicion, asking, "He's not that kind of a Grimm. By the way, how do you know what he is?"

Hearing the word "Grimm," both Morgan and Reid instinctively woged, but Nick remained unchanged. They were about to explain when Nick suddenly coughed.

Everyone turned their attention to Nick in astonishment as he sat up and looked around, dazed and confused.