Dear lord... Is it true? Is it actually true? Did I actually manage not one but TWO updates within a week of one another?! What blasphemy is this?! Am I on performance enhancing writing drugs?

Or did I just have an obscene amount of time during my work weekend to get a massive chunk of writing done?

Probably the boring one.

Chapter Fifty Four: An Island Bash

At some point, one gets tired of the constant forests. Vale is beautiful, but just as Mistral is mountainous in its beauty, there's little variation. A few arid locations with canyons in the east at least broke that monotony, but Vale's climate leaned heavily on the forests. Sure, all sorts of colors and gorgeous plant life. But still, monotonous.

So, seeing the ocean was quite a pleasant change of pace! The team had easily taken to the opportunity of traveling by ferry... Of course, learning which ferry they boarded definitely dampened their merry mood...

"Of course it's a fine day! The world is always beautiful on Taco Tuesday, Biff!" The slight up pitched nasal tone comes from the former Atlas general. Captain Rick Heron, hair slicked back with a proud, smiling shaven face, appraises the main deck's passengers. Behind him, the raccoon faunus, Biff, is slouched over. "Taco Tuesday is a staple holiday, I'll have you know."

The faunus sighs. "The dinner today is burritos, not tacos- ugh, whatever."

Heron glances over at Team CRBN, the four gathered around a table on the ferry deck eating said burritos. "Enough quarreling in front of the guests. Hello, Team CRBN! It's been a while since our last venture together."

All four were glaring at him, but Heron remained unaffected. Carmine grumbles. "We didn't know this was your boat. What happened to the Trojan?"

The boat they were on now was black on the bottom and gray on the top. A red streak separates the two dark shades, and the boat is large enough for two smoke stacks. The name in red on the side reads 'Mortuus'.

"Ah, it tragically was lost in a heroic sacrifice of combat against the mighty Grimm." The captain dramatically shakes his head, looking somber. "It was lost before its time."

"He refused to repair the hull from a Grimm attack before setting sail. The engine flooded with the water and sputtered out as we arrived to Vale a year ago. It sank in the harbor." Biff corrects. "Said battle scars added to character."

"Ah, yes. The sea dragons." Heron speaks up reminiscing, ignoring the open statement of fault that it could've been avoided. "A fight for the ages. Beauty in its end, and a fitting finish for a fantastic vessel."

"Our course was supposed to go around the Grimm's hunting ground. He directed us through it to cut time." Biff once more clarifies.

"But now the tale of Mortuus will carry the day!" The captain announces. For behold the rider who arrives on the dark horse!"

Roman looks sullen at the man. "Went from a Trojan horse to a dead horse. Lovely."

The captain ignores the obvious name jab, Mortuus translating to dead. Still, he smiles and pats the nearest wall of the inner ferry cabins. "Ah, she is a fine replacement. Built like a girl scout cookie sale, but handles like a gourmet bakery."

A long, drawn out creak of the hull squawks out over the open waters.

"The fact that you're not dead is a testament to how many good people help you." Carmine mutters. As the captain opens his mouth to respond, he cuts him off to clarify. "I say that because I refuse to believe you have any form of luck and been shown to lack any skill whatsoever."

The oblivious captain huffs and turns away. "My skills are above the foresight of a twelve year old-"

"Sixteen, bitch." Carmine irritably cuts in.

"-and my mind holds many trade secrets unknown to the public-"

"Huntsmen and Huntresses familiarize themselves with all four kingdom's protocols before graduation." Blair cuts in, matching Carmine's irritation. She does then look at him. "Language. Disrespect him in clever ways."

Before Heron can speak again, the faunus cuts in. "Sir, I believe the couple rooming in 124 wanted you to regale them with stories by the bar."

The confident captain instantly is walking away. "Absolutely!" He approaches a couple across the ship from the four, the faunus sighing before looking at them.

"Thank you for cutting his ego a bit." Biff states before tailing after the captain.

Roman calls out. "If you turn to sharp objects, I recommend using them on him instead of yourself. No one will blame you in that case." Blair and Carmine's dual glare at him is undercut by Neo breaking into a giggle. "What? It's true. You can't tell me that guy hasn't considered suicide."

"So you suggest murder? Fun." Carmine quips, but cracks a grin as well when Neo shakes her head. She points to her own mouth, talking with no sound. The boy bobs his head. "True. He could at least make the captain mute instead." He shrugs, turning to Blair. "So, Patch. What's it like?" He directs to Blair. "What kind of AZRL interaction could happen there?" To Roman. "And don't steal anything." He finishes to Neo.

Neo pouts, but hides a hand under the table. A hand with a new gold bracelet... She smirks to herself.

Blair answers first. "Patch is a rather large island. If it was anywhere else in the world and not directly near the heart of Vale, it could almost be its own nation. It's almost entirely forested outside of two urban centers close to the ocean. The only Grimm known to frequent the island are Beowolves and Ursai. Most of the island's population are remote families getting by simply. Close enough to Vale to obtain many conveniences. Far enough away not to suffer corruption."

"Speaking of." Roman cuts in with a smarmy smirk. "I've never been, myself. As Barbie says, no one in the underworld is ever interested in the bastion of rural isolation. Double that when one of the only special sights is a combat school of all things." He flippantly flicks his hand dismissive. "But maybe that's AZRL's intention. Kids not yet fully indoctrinated into the academies, but already having a head start in training." He snorts to himself, rolling his eyes. "As self sabotaging as that would be."

Neo hums, the three looking to her. She signs out as her expression scrunches. "I was enough of a problem for them, so taking people more trained and prepared than I was when first taken is risky. I never once saw someone brought in that had experience in combat school. Too trained to immediately beat lessons into."

"Means one of two things. One's a nightmare scenario." Roman whimsically rattles as he takes a cigar out and begins to light it.

"Then tell us, wise demented jerk." Carmine mocks out with a brow.

"One:" Roman lifts a finger to count. "AZRL has managed to grow despite our efforts. I would assume, with Senior's resources consolidated into Atlas before Junior could kill him. AZRL has grown elsewhere to such a degree that they now have the capacity to outright start stealing hunter candidates."

"Bull!" Carmine harshly cuts in, face pulled in contained anger. "We've spent two years clearing out Vale. So nothing here should be helping them grow, or else I'm going to literally kill Junior myself. Mistral, MAYBE, has gotten new AZRL operations, but after we cleared everything out, that's barely breaking even. Not growing."

"Which is why I think it's option two:" Roman flicks another finger up. "AZRL's resources have been expended. The Hunters have thoroughly tore into their infrastructure in Vacuo, Vale, and hopefully Atlas after we offered Sir Superior all Dory's old data. Combine that with us taking out their compatriots, even Senior's old fortunes wouldn't bolster them for long."

Blair's grimace pulls her face down. "They're bypassing the expense of training, letting the combat schools do it for them."

Roman shrugs. "It's the only thing I can imagine anyone wants with a rat hole like Patch. Signal Academy is the only landmark that brings people around. Think they want the fish at the docks? Possible, as I love some crab like anyone."

"Awesome." Carmine grumbles. "Guess we're stuck with investigating the school when we get there." He takes a drink of his soda pop, rolling his eyes. "Anything else up that we wanna discuss?"

Roman's devious smirk sends alert bells off in the boy's head. "Oh, nothing concerning you and Neo." He turns to Blair. The blonde remains passive, but a light blush taints her complexion. "So, what was that thing you did with your tong-"

Neo spit takes her drink, eyes wide and face matching the pink side of her hair.

"NOPE!" Carmine slams the table, standing up blistering red as he walks several paces to calm his flustered visage. "Noping out of that topic." He glares at the two. "By the way, if I ever find either of you in the other's room at home, I'm putting the hose to you."

"Be mature, Carmine." Blair acts calm, taking a sip of a tea in hand. She looks to Neo, who similarly to the boy glares at her. Neo looks pointedly between Blair and Roman. Translation: Oh, you can pursue your guy? "You too, Neo. Be mature." Blair blushes further before hiding her face with her drink.

Neo rolls her eyes, getting up and turning attention to her scroll.

Roman snorts. "I wouldn't mind the hose. Blair tends to wear white, so spraying her-"

" I'M OUT!" Carmine claps and waves both hands out, walking away from them. Neo squeaks and leaves as well.

The blonde watches the two teens leave before humming to herself. "You know how to make it just the two of us. Though, I question your sanity if that is your means."

He snorts, shaking his head. "That was just a happy consequence. I was asking a legitimate question. Come now. I refuse to think doughy boy was that lucky. Where did you learn that?"

She rolls her eyes and looks away to hide her face. "Rowa was... very forthcoming with her experiences. I just thought of what she described and interpreted it." She finally meets his gaze. It was... different from usual. "Speak of it to others, and you'll be punished."

"Don't threaten me with a good time." Roman quips, huffing smoke from his cigar. "Also funny that you get onto the brat about his mouth when I know where yours has-"

"The more you talk about it, the less you get." Blair narrows her gaze at him. "And next time, I demand actual wining and dining." She allows a small smirk.

He barks a laugh. "Here I thought you were the initiator. Now, I got to do work. How unfair." He mocks. "But, when you ask the best, be prepared to be wowed."

Blair raises a brow, but simply takes a drink, amused by his antics. She used to get annoyed by it...

. . .

The ferry miraculously made it to port with no issue. None of the four could scarcely believe it. Still, the "urban" area of the island left a good deal to be desired. Concrete roads were a plus, along with plenty of shops and even the odd couple cars. It was like a town that desperately wanted to be considered a city, but such a title laughs back at it.

Much of the port was trade and supply related. Butchers for run of the mill hunters to bring meat to, fishing markets, carpenters, logging companies, and a farmers market. However, all of that would be found secondary to the banners strung up above the street posts.

Carmine blinks at it. "What's the... 'Grand Patch Bash'?" Neo is already rapidly searching on her scroll for the turn, pulling the boy's attention to her device.

Both have their attention pulled away as Blair perks. "Ah. Is it the end of the month already?" The others look at her and she points up at the banner. "I didn't think it would matter, but Patch has adopted a festive lifestyle as a form of reward for the presence of Signal Academy. Every two months on the final weekend, there is a different type of island event usually themed after celebrating the students."

"Every two months? So they're sickeningly festive." Roman questions with a raised brow after confirming it was, indeed, the twenty second of November.

Neo nudges them all with one hand and signs while reading from her scroll. "Events held during the last weekend of every January, March, May, July, September, and November." She holds up the list of events for Carmine. It being September, he looks for the relevant name, indeed finding the Grand Patch Bash.

"Events based around the combat school students, eh?" Carmine comments off hand. "So, this Bash?"

Blair allows a soft smirk. "Well, today is Sunday, so we have the better part of a week until the actual event. The events differ, but September's is the Bash, yes. Each event is akin to a miniature fair with a specialized finale that Saturday. In this case, it's a combat student tournament."

Carmine and Neo double take. "Tournament?"

"It's the November event, yes." Blair answers. "March is an Olympic competition of sorts. January alternates being a sports game in which all contestants are allowed to use their semblances. Same for September... You get the idea. All Vale combat school students are encouraged into it, but the rare students from other kingdoms often sign up to join out of interest and curiosity."

Roman reads off Neo's scroll, interest peaked. "Says the tournament was canceled for a few years." Blair twitches visibly at that. "It was reinstated as a celebration after... 'new safety procedures for the crowds were put in place.' What's that about?"

When Blair pointedly looks away from the three, they glance at each other before sending confused gazes at her. "Blair?" Carmine asks. "Why do you look guilty?"

Blair groans. "The tournament was canceled for years after... Glynda and I destroyed the previous arena and endangered the crowd..."

Roman and Neo both burst into a fit of laughter as Carmine looks horrified. "W-what?! Wait, you competed- why didn't you stop if you-... How did you endanger the crowd?"

"Yes, Barbie. Explain how you and your sister let your cat fight injure the innocent bystanders." Neo makes scratching motions with her free hand mockingly to punctuate the man's mocking.

The blonde sighs. "I wanted to see what the range of people's semblances were. Then, I goaded Glynda into joining with one of our arguments." She hesitates for a moment, pursing her lips. "We got carried away. Glynda may have pitched a bench of patrons at me. I might have used my semblance to force some to act as shields for a moment."

Roman and Carmine both stare wide eyed, one horrified to the core while the other is too happy to speak. On the other hand, Neo squeaks out in sadistic laughter.

"We were both placed on in school suspension for two months after a public apology." Blair admits with an embarrassed flush.

"I didn't know you went to Signal." Carmine squeaks out awkwardly to change the subject.

"I didn't. Glynda and I went to Pharos Academy. We volunteered to participate."

Roman snorts. "Who won?" The triggering question caused both teens to snap their full attention on the woman.

"Of course I won." Blair snaps almost immaturely. She blushes, narrowing her gaze before huffing. "I mean, I would have. I'm sure of it, but we were bound by several Signal teachers before the match could conclude. We were disqualified, and Signal's top rookie that year was the last person standing." Blair allows a small smile, eyes softening. "Cella."

Blair and Neo, not knowing the girl, share a look unsure, but Carmine frowns. Eager to focus on the good times for Blair's former leader, he adds. "So, did that make you guys becoming a team awkward later?"

Blair smiles honestly at that. "Oh, once at Beacon, Cella was quick to put a foot down on mine and my sister's squabbles after experiencing it first hand." She allows the small moment of nostalgia before shaking it off. "Right. Let's not get distracted. If AZRL is focused on anything here, I'm sure it would be the celebration events for focusing on the students."

Carmine nods. "Right. Let's get a lay of the land and resources. Maybe we're missing something else it could be. We'll spend today getting a list of possible targets. If it IS the tournament that we should go for, then I want each of you to help think of something we could investigate for it."

"Got it." Roman groans out, shaking his head. "I doubt this place even has a decent inn. Definitely not a decent bar."

Blair smirks at him. "Inn: yes. Bar: no. There's a very small bulkhead platform for flights back into Vale. You have to go all the way into Vale just to buy dust and ammo. There's very little in shops."

Roman grumbles. "No wonder no one steals anything here. There isn't a damn thing..."

The four split off to search for the day.

. . .

Okay. So, he may be a city kid still. Jeez. On the road for three years, and towns without amenities are still so annoying to him. That may be elitist of him. He doesn't feel better than these people, so he can rule that out perhaps. It's just frustration building upon having something and then not. You take it for granted.

Like dust shops to refill ammo, fast food to stay on the go, and entertainment industries to stave off boredom. Sure, he has his scroll to look up entertainment online. So, not all terrible.

He spent his evening scoping out the forests. On the chance that AZRL only chose to place a base or outpost on this island, it would be good to get a start on that search. Lay of the land is important. The deep forests were out of a fairy tale. He could almost imagine this location as a down home tale of a girl and three bears, or a granddaughter delivering baked goods while dodging a wolf.

A smile graces his lip at that. There is a certain charm to this place. He briefly wonders how he would feel if he grew up here-

"Tell you what. Give Ozpin a chance. Just a chance. And, if after a while you still don't like it... how would you feel about coming to the island of Patch?"

Carmine stops. Smile gone like it had never existed. Right. His mind had been so preoccupied over the last few days, he almost forgot why he avoided directing the team here. He sighs, rolling his shoulders to ease the tension.

He feels a tug at his neck. The material of the new pendant around him chilled the skin. He didn't appreciate the feeling. It's like hats. Nothing pisses Carmine off faster than that dull pressure matting his hair down.

Still. His hand tugs at the top of his jacket underneath his Zero armor. The fusion of his birth parents' crests stares up at him. It bothered him, but he was also bothered taking it off too.

Of course, he had to firmly plant definitions in his mind. This woman, Vanessa, was his birth mother. Mother. However, Senaya Uhlric was most definitely his Mom. Mom. So to, Jared Uhlric was, is, and always will be his Dad. Dad. Which left his birth father-

He scoffs.

Another secret. Every single time, it's always a new secret. Father is a little irritable to admit. No. Asshole it is.

He smirks at that. Even if slightly, taking out his anger at an imaginary Ozpin can help ease him. Carmine returns back to the more town like area. There IS an inn, thank the brothers. He quickly finds a room for four booked by Blair. He finds that he's the second to arrive, followed soon after by Roman and Neo.

The four settled around. Carmine sits backwards on a roller chair, wrapped around the back. Blair sits properly on another chair. Roman lays back on a bed, claiming the one closest to the window. Neo chooses the bed closest to the front door.

"Alright. What do we got? I checked out the forests around. Ran into a tiny baby Beowolf that bit my shoe like an ass, but nothing told me AZRL is hiding in the thickets." Carmine opens the conversation while cracking open a pop can to drink from.

Neo sits cross legged, signing with one hand and gesturing with the other towards the far side of town. "I checked out the school campus up the road. Surprisingly nice. Well made, buy looks homey and used. They have living quarters for most of their students. Think I counted only twenty of the hundreds of students that left at the end of classes."

Blair hums. "The only students that commute for class would either live on the island or live in the city of Vale. They likely take Bulkhead transports daily. The vast majority of students aren't from here."

"Same as Beacon. Just not as extreme." Carmine muses.

Roman snorts, rotating and playing with the room television remote. "You kids and your boarding life. Having your needs catered to." He clicks his teeth mocking. "I checked the businesses. Everything is simple. Resources for basic living. You were right, Barbie. You'd gotta ride to Vale to have any fun. I didn't see hide or tail of anyone remotely shifty. Makes me sick how trusting this place is."

Carmine smirks. "We should finish quick then. Don't want happiness and simple living to rub off on Roman, here."

Neo giggles, earning a curt glare from Roman. He jabs a finger at her. "Zip it." Which only makes her laugh more. "Also, yes. This place sickens me. I see zero worth in this place to AZRL that could possibly come from anything else."

Blair nods. "Likewise. The bulkhead platform only holds rides to and from Vale. The docks are the only alternative means of travel if AZRL is abusing any means here. That gives us two avenues of investigation."

"Docks and the school." Carmine mutters. "If they are taking kids, they'd have to leave by boats."

"We're getting ahead of ourselves already." Roman cuts in. "We need to check if kids are disappearing at all. If they are, then yes, we have the two options." He clicks his teeth again. "I'll call up Junior and check how closely his boys monitor air travel into Vale. Just in case AZRL IS using the bulkheads."

Neo rolls her eyes. A notion not missed by the others. Translation: Wouldn't be the first thing Junior's missed.

Carmine looks between them. "We don't have access to hunter records anymore. Normal news outlets wouldn't have much detail on combat school students." The blonde sighs. "Blair?"

She shakes her head. "I can get that information. Though, it just means an uncomfortable conversation." Her tone turns grim. "I'm not too keen on getting lectured, though."

It takes a moment to click before Carmine grins. "Say hi to her for me." Neo nods, pointing to herself to say 'me too.'

Roman snorts and opens his mouth. Blair cuts him off. "She won't want to hear of you." Roman simply smiles and lays back. The blonde sighs and stands. "I'll go make the call..."

. . .

Somewhere in Mantle

The white backdrop of snow decorates a village. A flurry of white washes down from the sky, building up in the cracks of a window. One of several wooden cabin style structures. Inside one, a fireplace lit warm area heats the home.

On a table, a violet device buzzes. The custom scroll is picked up by feminine hands. Rowa Carson answers her device in a frazzled huff. "Hello~!" The violet haired woman smiles politely before blinking shocked. The video call shows Blair staring at her. Albeit slightly hesitant. "Blair?!" She blurts out.

The woman cringes at her outburst before glancing around. Certain she's alone, she sets the scroll up propped on the nearest table. She fixes a loose hair and sets a suspicious glare on the scroll. "Blair?"

"Hi, Rowa. I'm not interrupting anything, am I?"

Rowa raises a brow with a frown. "Well, you've pulled me away from my triple layer sundae cake." She sarcastically drawls before sending a conflicted scowl. "Blair, your team is under a BOLO by Ozpin. We can't have this conversation. I'm obligated to report you to Ozpin."

Blair's smile is hollow. Not any emotion in it. If the violet haired girl could, she'd console her best friend. "I know. But, we need help. You're the only one I can think that could help." Rowa casts a glance to the corner of her screen, but Blair grabs her attention again. "I'm using a program to scramble my location if you try to trace the call."

Rowa narrows a gaze. "You got me. I'm too used to having to do that." She crosses her arms. "All that effort to get you to open back up to us, and your team up and gets cast out by Ozpin."

"That's hardly fair. That was hardly a choice on our part." Blair growls in her response.

"Forgive me for doubting since you're typically anti Ozpin to begin with." The woman sarcastically quips. "Not even just for you, but to allow Carmine and Neo into that position... Blair, they're kids, and huntsmen are ordered to arrest them on sight."

Indignant, Blair snaps back. "Ozpin is in the wrong on this. You don't even know what happened."

"Then, by all means, explain. In one sentence or less." Rowa glares back through the video call.

Blair casts glances around herself on the screen. The view briefly shows a darkened sky before returning to Blair. "Carmine has magic."

Rowa blinks once. Twice. "Come again?"

"You said one sentence or less. Seemed the most direct." Blair speaks lower.

The woman shakes her head. "This was a waste of time. If you're not going to be honest, we can't do this."

"I am being completely honest, Rowa! Please!" Blair almost yells through the call. Rowa pauses, scrutinizing the woman. "I am being completely honest and will be open. I'm not lying to you. Not anymore."

Rowa narrows her gaze, scoffing. Fine, she'll give a chance here. "Magic? Really?" She starts skeptically. "Start with that."

"From the moment I met Carmine and stole his blood back at Beacon, I've known about a second power in his blood. Aura decays in blood separated from the body. This power did not decay." The violet haired girl takes sudden offense, a furious look coming over her. Blair hurries the next sentence out. "I didn't discover this until after Carmine and I started our friendship! Our bond was real!"

Anger cooling, Rowa shakes her head. "Almost reached through the screen to throttle you. It really makes it sound like you hung around for convenience though."

Choosing to ignore the accusation, Blair continues. "About ten months ago, our team was in Mountain Glenn. Carmine called upon this power for the first time without outside interference. It's not tied to his semblance, and he had access to it despite his aura hitting absolute zero." Rowa's brow furrows, eyes wide. "The power sustained his body completely absent of aura as well. My semblance can't detect the power either."

That shocks Rowa. She stops herself and thinks. "W-wait. Absolute zero aura? You can't detect it? What is..." She maintains eye contact with Blair before sighing. "Okay, so I see why you call it magic-"

"Ozpin knew about it." Blair cuts in. She's unable to keep the irritation out of her voice. "Another secret to add to the pile."

Rowa frowns back. "Hey! You can at least be understanding. Of all people, I'd expect you to understand going behind people's backs. Maybe try to empathize."

An actual flash of hurt comes to the blonde. Confusion seeps in as well. "Where is this coming from? You didn't sound like this back at Menagerie."

A tug of guilt comes over the violet haired woman. "I needed to keep you and Glynda from going at each other's throats, and most of our call conversations since were barely checkups. I just-" Rowa sighs and rubs her face, frustrated. "Blair, you absolutely lied to everyone back then. Maybe try to understand why Ozpin lied as well. His decisions are always, always for the good of others."

Defensive, Blair hisses out. "His ultimatum to us was either allow Carmine to be confined to Beacon away from us or have his hunters come and force him back." The blonde tries, really tries, to bite her anger, but fails. "Carmine's decision was clear. We continue against AZRL, then return to Beacon. Although, a recent development may impede that. Be that as it may, Ozpin's morality around choice certainly came short the moment Carmine showed his power."

The outburst slaps Rowa back. A deep frown takes over. "And did he say why?"

Blair sets a scolding gaze on her. "That there's forces out there that will target him, and Ozpin was not willing to risk Carmine being caught without being prepared. Altruistic as that may be, it is yet another secret kept and does not negate Carmine's right to choose his path."

When Rowa's frown deepens, she looks away. If Ozpin reacted that way, could the boy be in the sights of the Cult? Blair pauses at sensing the sudden timidity. Rowa tries to explain without detail. "There's a lot of things out there, Blair. You don't know them all, yourself either." The blonde's gaze narrows.

"You know who Ozpin is referring to." Blair states. Not at all a tone of question, but Rowa nods anyway. "Fitting since you actually graduated that you'd be further in his circle." Blair admits quietly.

"He's a kid. A mature, powerful, gifted kid, yes. But a kid, still." Rowa adds softly. "He's not even academy age. Maybe he should have taken the time to learn about his power. Ozpin would know how to do it rather than you guys guessing as you go."

While her tone was pleading, Blair's gaze hardens. A cold, piercing stare bores into the woman from her best friend. "You knew magic existed before this." She pauses, cocking her head. "You didn't try to rationalize whether his power was something else. Instead, you instantly went to Ozpin being perfect to teach him."

"Yeah..." Rowa admits sheepishly, scratching her neck. "Sorry. It's top secret, and outside of two people I can think of, one I haven't even met mind you, only four people should have magic. Four females. So, hearing about Carmine having it kinda shocked me."

Blair parses that information for later. "I won't ask for anything on that. Also, the decision to not leave Carmine behind is one our team is behind, one hundred percent. So, please don't try to remove the choice he's made. Neither of us want that."

Rowa understands the undertone... Don't force Blair to choose between her and the boy. The fact that Blair brings it up pierces the woman's heart. She already knows the answer. "Right... I'm sorry." Her voice tightens with the apology.

It must have reached Blair, the blonde's face relaxing. If she didn't know better, she could see the shimmer of held back tears. They're both in a bad way. "No. I'm sorry. I did wrong by you for going behind yours and everyone's backs. I'm... trying to be better." Remembering the reason for the call, Blair adds again. "Will you please help me?"

Rowa smiles. This is the most apologizing she's ever heard from the blonde. Who was she, and what did she do with Blair? "Depends what you want me to do. Explain yourself, Goodwitch."

The playful tone brings a small smile to Blair as she nods. "Ozpin revoked Carmine's access to hunter records, and his access was a step above actual huntsmen clearance. We need someone that can look into something for us. I need to know, of all recorded students of the kingdoms combat schools, any missing students that disappeared within the last four years. Specifically if disappearances have spiked at all in the last two."

Rowa sits up straighter. "AZRL is targeting combat school students?" Okay. THAT merits assistance for sure.

"We lack proof, but our current line of thinking is leaning to that, yes." Blair clears her throat. "Accurate dates of the disappearances would be most helpful. All we need is the information, and we can take it from there."

The woman hums to herself. "Hmm." Yes. She already knew she was going to look into it. Protecting combat school students? Even Glynda would likely still help Blair if that was the request.

But... why not get something out of it?

Rowa smirks. "I'll do it on one condition."

Blair glares back suspiciously. "I do not appreciate conditions."

"I know." Rowa's smile widens to a grin.

"Fine... I'll suffer if it makes things up to you. What's the condition."

"Come to my wedding."

"..." Blair stares back with wide eyes.

"..." Rowa cocks her head with a wider smile, as cute as she can manage.

"... C-come again?!" Her voice cracks! "You're getting married!? When? I- WHO?!"

The splitting grin beaming back was giddy, Rowa picking up the scroll and carrying it into her kitchen. "So, recall I told you about this super cute, sweet, handsome devil while on a mission in Atlas?" She holds up a hand for the camera, showing off a pure cut diamond engagement ring. She can't stop herself from wiggling giddy. "Arnold proposed three months ago! We get married May the fourth!" She ends in a squeal.

Blair sputters to try and respond, but her mouth simply fails to make noise for several seconds. Finally, she grins. Not quite as large as her best friend. "Congratulations! I'm more than happy for you! But..." She frowns. "I'm not sure coming to Vacuo would work well. Nor would my presence work well for any hunters who come."

Huffing, Rowa glares into the camera. "My wedding is neutral ground. Anyone who brings business there dies. No questions on that." She then smiles. "Besides, I'm no longer in Vacuo. Arnold and I have lived together here in Atlas for a while now!"

The blonde blinks twice. "I thought you despised snow."

"Whaaaaaat? Nooooo!" Rowa grinds out slowly before peaking out the window at the snow fall outdoors. She sweats lightly before coughing with a shiver. "Okay, I've mostly gotten over it. It's seriously beautiful. I'm just not huge on the colder parts of the year." She then gives a hesitant smile. "So... will you come if it's in Atlas? Please?"

Her friend smiles back. "Absolutely. Our current venture is actually our last mission before we move our adventures into Atlas itself, so that works out perfectly."

Rowa lets out an awkward laugh. "Don't get on the bad side of the military please..." She shakes off the nerves and smiles. "Also, as part of the agreement." Her smile widens. "Maid of Honor."

Blair flinches, stiffening ram rod straight. Her mouth parts in shock. However, she settles on a frown. "I... don't deserve that. Surely, Glynda is better suited, or you've found some new friends-"

"Uh uh." Rowa cuts in, disagreeing. She sets a firm glare on her friend. "Glynda will be there, sure, but you were my partner. You were with me for four years. You're the one I always miss first." The admission makes Blair stand straighter. Rowa sighs, but is still smiling. "Anyone else is a bride's maid. End of story."

The violet haired woman smiles seeing several emotions flash across the blonde's face. She felt very accomplished when Blair actually wipes at her eyes. "Then yes. I'll definitely find the time to come."

"Great!" Rowa fist pumps. "You know what? Bring Neo. She can be a bride's maid too. Carmine can come too! Oh! If you can't find a plus one, I'm sure Arnold knows someone in the Atlas science departments or the like that you could fancy!"

Suddenly, Blair's face heats up. She blinks twice and looks away. "Actually... that's not necessary."

"It's entirely necessary! Who else is going to get you into the dating game?" Rowa starts innocently. When Blair doesn't immediately admonish her for meddling, Rowa takes the woman in. Avoiding eye contact. Blush... No... "Shut up..." Rowa brightens. "You sly dog! You actually went into dating on your own?! I'm so proud of you!"

Blair hunches, face burning darker and darker. "Uh... Yes... Well..."

Rowa is already clapping. "Oh! Tell me about him! How romantic was he to sweep you off your feet?"

She snorts before responding. "He's quite the planner, I will give him that..."

"Is he handsome?" Rowa leans further towards the scroll, surely her face absorbing the full screen on the other end of the call.

"I won't answer that because I won't let his ego get any larger. I fear voicing it will make him further aware of it." Blair looks away, a nervous look as she begins to sweat.

"Yes! Oh, just let a man have some confidence! Is he a big brain like you? Does he support you? Is he sweet? I KNOW you wouldn't go for someone without class, so what are his tastes?" Rowa begins rapid firing, blissfully ignorant of the growing nervous sweat of her best friend.

"I-in order... He doesn't need more confidence. Actually, he keeps up with me well. Almost too well. He's quite quick witted. He pulls through when it matters, or it suits him. Pretty sure the only sweet thing about him is his sweet tooth. Finally... he's quite the city man. Knows his money." Blair chooses the last words carefully, thought her smile comes back as she talks about her newly acquired interest.

The high pitch squeal coming from Rowa echoes in the house. "I love it! He sounds great. How long have you known him- Wait, how long have you known you liked him- WAIT! How long have you been together?" She rattles off.

Blair's eyes twitch as she coughs. "Uh... Well, we've known each other for a few years now... I suppose I realized I was starting to like him quite a while ago, but just kept denying it. We just recently got together."

"How's the sack?" Rowa blurts out, grinning like a buffoon.

"I'm absolutely not answering that." Blair shrieks in response.

"AH! You never pass up an opportunity to criticize! You didn't say you hadn't either. That means he rocked your world!" Rowa fist pumps again, enjoying her now tomato faced blonde friend. When Blair says nothing in return, the woman giggles. "Jeez. You kept him secret long enough. Seriously, with how work focused you are, the only likely love interest you'd have would be Carmine."

"That's disgusting!" Blair screams out again, earning a laugh from her friend. "What kind of sick pervert do you take me for?!"

Rowa covers his mouth in a giggle fit. "Oh, it's not that. It's just that, that would be more likely than spending any further time with that condescending, insufferable conman."

As the woman laughs, Blair shifts uncomfortably. "He's... Roman's not that bad."

The use of the name pulls her attention back to the scroll. "What?" The two stare at one another again. Her eyes widen... mouth parting at first. She quietly squeaks out a questioning utterance. "Blair?"

"Carmine and Neo both say hi!" Blair cuts in, looking like a deer in headlights.

"BLAIR!" Rowa's face warps from shock to fury.

"Call me once you've seen the hunter records! It's amazing to talk to you again!"

"NO! NO nononono-"

"Trust my judgment, please-"

"I'm not trusting shit now! Explain to me-!" The call cuts out, screen going black. Rowa stands, stunned wide eyed. She blinks once before scrambling with the scroll, calling the number back.

Straight to voice mail. Blair turned her scroll off.

The echoing shriek sounding through the village shakes the snow off trees...

. . .

A day had passed. Monday evening. Further searching of the woods yielded no sign of AZRL. The more they found nothing, the more the four were certain the local events were responsible. Confirmation comes after five in the afternoon when Blair briefly leaves the others to accept a call from Rowa.

The blonde soon returns to the room, Carmine and Neo perking up from watching a wrestling program on his scroll. "Yo. Did she come through for us?"

Blair clears her throat. "After a thorough tongue lashing regarding my recent life choices-"

"You're welcome." Roman chimes in, entering after her with several bags of food. Courtesy of a food run into Vale. Blair glares at the man, but it holds no bite. "Sorry, did I harm your image?" He adds with a smarmy grin.

Carmine snorts. "You'd harm anyone's image." Neo, without looking at him, whacks his gut with her backhand, getting a flinch. Carmine coughs. "I mean, who wouldn't be happy for you guys?"

The blonde ignores the boys, smiling at Neo. "Rowa's disapproval notwithstanding... She gave me the data on student disappearances." She looks at her scroll. "Of the six combat schools in the world, before two years ago, there was a one to one ratio of students going missing per year."

"Basically, one or two students up and disappearing, not dissimilar to just dropping out." Carmine wonders.

"Or brats doing something stupid thinking they're ready for serious threats." Roman cuts in, pointedly looking at Carmine.

"Yes. The most common disappearances were easily traced as kids getting too confident and going out specifically to find Grimm. They them never showed up again." Blair clarifies. "Two years ago, that number rose by 50%."

Neo cocks her head. They were already talking literally half a dozen kids regularly disappear per year. Upping that by 50% literally just means three more kids getting got. Could be an outlier. Could easily have been a group of students getting killed together.

Roman huffs. "Still nothing statistically relevant if one year four extra brats went out and got eaten." The man speaks Neo's own thoughts.

"Which makes this last year's number spike more noticeable of sixteen. Nine of which line up with four of the last Patch events." Blair points out. "Five to six in a regular year, followed by a possible outlier of nine, sure. Tripling the usual number on top of the convenient time certainly sets off my alarms."

Carmine grimaces. Neo perks and smiles. She nudges him, getting an off look in return. They blink at one another, the girl grinning slightly wider and wider as his confusion mounts. She finally crafts a shatter sign, holding it up.

On the sign are two sets of children. One is Neo and Carmine. The other is Neo and Carmine color swapped in the other's color scheme. The sign shatters as Blair and Roman share a contemplative look.

Roman smirks. "Barbie and I can investigate the docks to see if AZRL has anyone on pay roll for transporting any kidnappees."

Blair frowns at that. "But leaving Carmine and Neo out as bait? We'd be asking them to get themselves captured." Looking at the kids, she sees Carmine frowning at it. Neo is tense, but an edge in her eye caught her attention.

She could tell. Neo wants to get back at AZRL still. Playing innocent and screwing them over would be cathartic, sure. The girl was vindictive as ever. Not to mention, she's still quite suited for infiltration. Carmine on the other hand... The boy looks away. Risk aside... a thought comes to the blonde.

Rowa was right. They're kids... Maybe, if even for a day, she could allow them that privilege.

She smiles at him. "Well, Carmine? How do you feel about infiltrating Signal Academy and entering the tournament?" She looks to Neo as the boy double takes. "You too, Neo."

Neo's predatory grin splits her face. The idea of pulling a wool over an entire school of people? Count her in! Plus, how many cool school materials can she swipe from under their noses? She's giddy just thinking about such a position. She nods, eager.

Carmine blinks wide eyed, hesitant. "Uh... You're asking me to..."

Blair smiles first to Roman. "How fast could you get some falsified paperwork claiming they're from Sanctum Academy in Mistral? I'm fairly certain I could reconstruct the forms from memory. Fill in some holes with Rowa."

"Whoa, wait." Carmine tries to cut in, but is talked over.

The conman grins. "Junior has some lawyers on payroll. I can have them look it over within three days." He sends a sadistic glance over his shoulder at Carmine as he stands. "That'll also put the brats on their own undercover starting Thursday night-"

Carmine sputters as he stands, hands up placating before signaling a time out. "Hey! Pause! If we do it this way, why can't we just enter the day of? Do it real quick."

Blair cuts in. "Entrants must arrive before Friday and spend at least one day there. It's an agreement to allow the school to check the person's background-" She looks to Roman. "Junior's guy better be good." She turns back to Carmine. "And see how they interact with others to encourage friendly competition. Socially." She adds with emphasis.

He swallows the lump in his throat... "You... No." He understands exactly what she's implying. The blonde smirks. "You can't be serious." Even Neo quirks a brow, having more focused on the notion of infiltration.

"Yes, I am." Her smile widens. "Just for one day, you're going to have to stay at Signal Academy as a foreign student."

And the words he thought he'd avoided forever since forming Team CRBN were spoken. Neo finally clicks, her enjoyment lost as she realizes the blonde's ploy.

"You're going to school."

"But... But..." He looks to Neo. "She can change her appearance at will. Anyone who knows Ozpin at all will recognize me by my hair. I can't go!" Neo whirls around on him. She cracks Hush below his gut, crunching him forward. "Urk! Ow~..."

"I'll pick out some stuff to disguise you." Roman smirks, suddenly all in on making the boy miserable. "I won't make you look too terrible. Hair dye should work."

"I-it doesn't!" He shrieks. Face fully flushed as he sweats, be backs up. "My parents tried dying my hair fully red a couple times. The silver always pierces through the dye!"

Blair picks up on Roman's smirk. "Who said we're dyeing the silver?"

Horror. Shock. Betrayal. Capitol N, O, O, and O... His voice squeaks weakly. "... What?"

. . .

Thursday evening.

"I hate all three of you bastards." His voice snaps. A near silent giggle sounds. "Shut the hell up, Neo- OW!"

"Language, Carmine. Be aware that they're not going to be as lenient as I am when it comes to your sailor mouth." Blair chastises him after having struck him upside the hide. "Also, even if you're not a student of the school, they will still have you attend classes, so you better have paid attention to the studies I've given you." Her tone dips cold, glaring before her at the two teens.

Neo sweats lightly and looks away.

The girl's hair is divided to pigtails that drift over her shoulders. Her Shatter illusion disguise shifts her hair color to a solid saturated blue. Her eyes were violet, and her skin was a mild tone darker than her normal skin color. Hush in her hands was recolored violet with black trim. Her clothes consisted of black arm guards, brown leg guards acting almost like high boots linking into brown boots, black boy shorts under a violet short jean skirt, a black crop top with a short brown vest clasps over her chest showing mid riff. She also couldn't help but to wear as many silver bracelets and necklaces as possible.

Blair then leans in front of Neo, wrapping a snug bandage wrap around Neo's neck, making sure it's comfortable, but looks like Neo's experienced a throat injury. She then reaches into a pouch. "Here. I had Roman get this laminated." She hands the girl a small card.

It reads. 'I've been hurt and cannot speak. Mention it at your own expense.'

The blonde double takes. "R-Roman! You changed the wording!"

Roman snickers. "It's honest. You know for a fact that one of them's gonna get into a fight. All kids fight at school. New kids disrupt the pecking order."

Blair rolls her eyes at the man's antics. "Right... Alright, Carmine. Let's touch you up. Here."

"I hate you..." Carmine mumbles like a child as he stands.

His armor is in Jager form around his calves atop white shoes. His pants are white as well with a crimson belt. Heulin Noon has been covered with rub off paint to be black with red trim, his Uhlric family crest covered. Its holster on his left thigh is black. He wears a silver high collar necked vest with red interior, a black t shirt covering underneath. Both hands have black finger-less gloves.

His blue eyes were bull, annoyed. No. Annoyed was a damned understatement. Because... his hair. His beautiful, unique hair...

Was dyed a unified silver white...

Neo simply stares at him in shock, even Roman having a raised brow as he whistles. "It's like Old Man Superior had thirty years drained from him."

Carmine growls under his breath, teeth grinding.

A dye bottle is placed in a sack for him. Blair explains. "The hair dye will wash out with shampoo, so you'll have to reapply it when you shower in the boarding rooms." She then gives him an appraisal look. "And while I understand your personal discomfort, trust me. It looks good."

And now he's blushing. "... Alright, but if one person says I look like Ozpin, I'm killing them."

"You look exactly like Ozpin save for blue eyes. You always have. Now, it is just a tiny bit more pronounced." Blair smiles at his twitch. "Do you remember your undercover names?" Suppressing a groan, Carmine and Neo both nod, the girl much happier with this venture. "Supplies?" Both raise a sack each. "Paperwork?"

"There we are!" Roman places two packets on the hotel room table, Carmine and Neo each accepting one.

Carmine frowns at his paper, not sure how he feels. But, nods. "I got it." Blair and Neo exchange a look. Neo nudges him, giving a sympathetic smile. He scoffs. "I know. I picked it. It was a dumb thought, but too late to change it."

Neo grins, looking at the adults and quirking her brow.

"Nope. Should be it." Roman pops the p with the word. "Go play as close to normal as you'll ever get for two days and contact us with any update." He then cuts a glare at the two. "Remember, just because you're SUPPOSED to get AZRL's attention doesn't mean get drugged. We can't help you if you get taken fully away. Check your corners."

Blair nods with him. "Expect them to implement Nomaura. Don't let them inject anything in you. Don't accept any food or drinks from anyone. Black dust is also a possible tool they could use. We still don't know if the school itself has someone under AZRL's pay or if they'll simply scout and pull something during the tournament."

Neo salutes, looking goofy with the long blue pigtails. Carmine gives a sullen glare and mute nod. Carmine addresses the adults. "Let us know if you find anything suspicious at the docks. We'll use eight to nine pm as a window to call one another."

They each nod, game faces on as the teens take their leave.

. . .

It wasn't as grand as Beacon, that's for sure... The arches of the main campus entryway were ornate, but so much smaller. The entry into the groomed campus grounds is labeled with a metal engraving in the top of the archway. 'Signal Academy' with the school crest between the two words.

Carmine and Neo share a glance, sudden nerves affecting both. Carmine gulps down his anxiety as Neo nudges him to go first. He glares at her for making him take the lead, so he halts and waves for her to go ahead. She shakes her head no, moving her hand to his back to press him forward.

He marches in an arc, circling Neo and ending up behind her before planting both hands on her shoulders to Conga line her forward! The girl stumbles in a panic until digging her heels into the ground. The shoes scrape along the ground as Carmine slowly inches her with his push.

The two's antics add a full ten minutes as they move through the concrete walk way to the main grand hall. They continue struggling, now almost ready to start wrestling one another when a voice clears its throat.

"Ahem... Can I help you with something?"

Both teens freeze before looking up simultaneously. Carmine sucks his breath in... Shit...

The blonde muscular man stands tall, giving a curious and amused look to the two teens. He flashes a friendly grin. "Ah... Late comers for the Bash?" He innocently asks.

Neo smiles and nods, though she notices Carmine remains frozen. She gives him a crooked glance, brow raised. She jabs him with her elbow as she steps forward to the man. She presents her papers for him with a smile.

Carmine rubs his gut, but the pain inflicted pales to the lump in his gut. His eyes harden, belaying a simmering anger. "Y-Yeah. We're here for the tournament from Sanctum... in Mistral?" He almost sounds confused as he says so, but it seems to go over the man's head. He coughs, getting his simmer together. "Are... you a professor here?"

The man groans. "I hate the term Professor. Just refer to me as a teacher and friend." The man puts a hand forward for each of the teens. "Hi, I'm Taiyang Xiao Long. What are your names?" Neo accepts his left hand for a shake, but Carmine remains hesitant. However, after a moment, he accepts the right hand.

Remember your names.

"I'm Zane Maxwell, and this is Vanille Carson." Carmine unhappily grumbles as Neo disregards her confusion with him to beam a smile and wave silently.

We're finally at Patch, and the last pit stop in Vale! Anyone else feel like RWBY should have given more of what Patch actually is as a community? Cause it took three volumes to show it, or rather just the Rose home. Then Yang just leaves it.

Yeah... I kinda wanna at least have a bit of a small town country vibe with how at ease the place is with a single urban event location. And what's this? A... tournament?

All fun.

Reviews:

Crimson_mist (AO3) – Our boy has definitely improved and grown from his times hiding from Summer's image in Beacon. He's getting there.

COULDNT12761022 (FF dot net) – Me too! Hope you enjoy.

amdizzy2 (FF dot net) – Thanks for the words of encouragement! I certainly hope I can make the long haul, and an answer for your question was made towards another review response on chapter fifty two: Far Too Early. It's not in-depth, but should give you what you're looking for as an answer! Hope you continue to enjoy reading!

Notes:

Obviously with a tournament situation, there's gonna be some song segments for fights, and maybe even in universe. It's been a minute since I've had one, but the ones planned here have been set in stone since I started this story. For the, like, two of you that probably look up the music to listen to. Everyone else likely ignores it, but I don't care!

Join next time in chapter fifty five: School?!