Chapter 21: Rematch

Disclaimer: RWBY belongs to Rooster Teeth and Monty Oum, I only my OCs.

Team RXDY

The all faunus team walks through a forest on their journey to Mistral. With no missions available they decide to head for Vale, to spectate the Vytal Tournament in person. When they reach the City of Mistral the group has a late lunch then looks for the next available air ship to board which to their luck, there is one. After purchasing snacks at the airport, the team steps on board, choose their seats and buckle up. While waiting for the air ship to take off, Rena feels her scroll vibrate making her fetch for it. Once that's done, she sees attachment files from Ashton Fall. Opening each file, she reads the content until she catches one paragraph that catches her attention.

It said, "Be careful of Sin Saber. He knows Cinder Fall and may have feelings for the woman or did in the past. Me and my new partner watched him embrace Cinder, confirming my suspicion. Watch yourself, Rena. I'm looking for more information about Sin's past and will report it to you. My partner and I are in Vale since something big will happen during the Vytal Tournament. Hope we can speak in person. Take care." Rena closes the files.

What did Ashton mean by Sin knows Cinder? She met the woman once and could immediately tell she radiated malicious intent and hunger for power just by looking into her eyes. But the one-eyed faunus kept her suspicion of Cinder hidden. She didn't know how the woman would react. Also, what exactly will happen during the Vytal Tournament?

The flight to the continent of Sanus takes the rest of the day and into the start of the next day.

Chiming of the PA stirs the passengers from their slumber. The air ship touches down on a landing pad at the entrance to the Kingdom of Vale. Once the passengers are given the go-ahead from the air ship's captain to unbuckle, they do allow them to stand up and depart. Stepping foot outside, the faunus team stretches feeling and hearing their bones pop after sitting for so long.

Draco said, "Those seats are not comfortable. Man, it feels like I've been twisted like a pretzel." He sighs in relief after the last of his bones pop. The team starts making their way toward Vale City, reaching it by 8:00 a.m. Upon entering they notice increased security and the True Grimm in human form wandering the streets.

Yumi commented, "It's been a while since we last stepped foot in Vale City. There's a lot more people."

Xavier said, "Some of them are from the neighboring kingdoms, which means Vale is hosting the Vytal Tournament this cycle. Shall we, team?" They venture into town exploring the sights until they come across a cafe. Seeing nothing better to do they sit at an outside table ordering some breakfast sandwiches and milk while Draco reads the news on his scroll.

He read the headline, "Huh. Beacon Academy students repel a Grimm breach at Mountain Glen."

Xavier hummed, "Mountain Glen. Wasn't that the failed expansion attempt by Vale?"

Yumi gained a thoughtful look, "Yes, a long time ago. I remember my parents talking about it when I was a little girl."

Xavier stated, "Too bad we weren't there to see it."

Rena commented like it's the most obvious thing, "Had we been there, we'd hog all the kills."

Yumi asked, "What should we do after breakfast?"

Rena said, "Let's pay my father a visit." The team eat their fill, Xavier pays the check, and they depart for Smith Schwartz's home.

As they head there a voice called out, "Excuse me. May I have a moment?" Turning in sync the team spots a young human sitting at a table.

Draco walked over, "It depends."

The man introduced himself, "The name's Kim Luck. I'm an aura reader."

Draco repeated, "Aura reader?"

Kim nodded, "Yes, my semblance allows me to see a person's aura and what the color says about them. How about it? I'll do this free of charge." Draco looks at his teammates, seeing no objections.

Draco returned his gaze to Kim, "Okay. Do you wanna do it in specific order?"

Kim shook his head, "No need. I'll start with you, Draco. Before you ask me how I know your or your team's names, I've been hearing reports about you in the newspaper and Vale News Network. Okay, let's begin. Give me your hands." Draco offered them and Kim grabbed hold as he activated his semblance causing his brown eyes to glow, "Hmm, yours is purple and burns like fire. There are also black spirals wrapped around it. The purple signifies you're from a royal family or something close to one. It also represents your devotion to your friends. The black spirals mean your grief over the loss of someone important to you in addition to suppressed anger." Draco stays quiet after Kim lets go of his hands.

Yumi jumped up and down, "Me next, me next!"

Kim laughed at the wolf faunus's eagerness, "Come on over." Holding her hands with eyes still glowing he said, "Your aura is yellow mixed with white. The yellow symbolizes positivity, joy, loyalty and so much more. Traits you don't lack. The white represents purity and innocence. Again, traits you have despite your line of work. It radiates like the warming rays of the sun." He releases the wolf faunus's hands so Yumi can join her teammates while Xavier gets his turn.

Turns out his aura color is orange, representing his creativity and open-mindedness. It was radiating like a gentle breeze.

Rena is next, letting the young human hold her hands. She watches his eyes blink in surprise.

Kim commented, "Oh, my Oum. Your aura is an interesting one. It's half red, half blue and black spirals. The red symbolizes your passion, energy and survival. Blue represents your cool and calm mindset, loyalty, trust and not wanting to be in the spotlight. The black spirals mean there's a mystery around you, wield incredible power but because of your reputation as the One-Eyed Devil, people don't wish to befriend you, refuse to let yourself be vulnerable. You keep your emotions locked away. Death follows you everywhere and there is a deep-seeded sadness within you. At the same time, you provide protection to those who allowed yourself to get close to. They turn to you for strength and safety. Your aura burns like a star, hot, bright and fierce." Rena doesn't respond to his evaluation and joins her team.

Kim nodded, "Hope that gave you some insight. Have a good day. Enjoy the tournament."

Yumi smiled, "We will." Team RXDY resumes heading for their destination. In no time they reach Schwartz's Forge, using the brass ring to knock. They wait a couple of minutes until the door's lock is released and the door opens revealing Rena's father.

Smith smiled upon seeing his adopted daughter, "Rena! Nice to see you again."

Rena hugged him, "Hello, father."

Smith asked, "When did you get here?"

Rena said, "This morning. Since there's no missions available, we're going to watch the tournament."

Her father chuckled, "Must have read my mind, I was having the same thought." The group spend the next few hours talking to Smith and what he's been up to. Just before they exit the workshop Smith hands Rena a sharpening stone for Scarlet and oil to polish it. Even though her claymore is made of nigh indestructible metal like her armor, Rena is surprised it hasn't chipped yet.

Yumi asked, "When does the tournament start?"

Smith told her, "In about two days. I'll see you then." Giving his daughter a hug Smith bids them farewell.

Walking around town the team passes a bookstore when they bump into Rena's informant.

Ashton said, "Nice to see you again, Rena. And those three must be your teammates."

Yumi asked, "Who's this?"

Rena told them, "Guess it's time to introduce you to my informant. Yumi, Xavier, Draco, this is Ashton Fall. Ashton, these are my teammates." The other faunus wave at him with wariness.

Ashton said, "Hello there. The person next to me is my partner, Klawdia."

The dinosaur Grimm beamed at them, "Hi!" Rena looks at her then Ashton the eye contact speaking volumes.

Ashton nodded in confirmation, "Yes, Klawdia is a True Grimm." Seeing their lack of reaction made the young Fall ask, "I take it you met her kind before?" Team RXDY nods in unison.

Rena said, "Let's head somewhere private to discuss your report." Ashton leads the group to a park where Rena's teammates get to know Klawdia better while her and Ashton talk.

Ashton told her, "Something big will happen during the Vytal Tournament. During a match between Pyrrha and Penny, Emerald will use her semblance to make Pyrrha rip her apart, generating panic and start the invasion. The White Fang are involved too. They will release Grimm into Vale, specifically Adam Taurus. He's one who will release Grimm into the city." Rena takes in the information including the last part.

So, Adam Taurus is here.

Rena asked, "Where is he now?"

Ashton replied, "Last time I saw him was at the docks when doing my recon. I have no idea where he is now, but I do know he's still in Vale City, my guess is he's just waiting for the signal. What's more is that during the ensuing chaos, Cinder Fall will take what is rightfully hers since she already has half of it aka half of the Fall Maiden's powers. She wants the other half of Amber's Maiden powers since she is the current Fall Maiden."

Rena followed up with another question, "What about the increased security my team noticed upon entry to Vale City? Does that have to do with this, I presume?"

Ashton nodded, "Sure is, beautiful. I decided to tell Professor Ozpin, the headmaster of Beacon Academy, about it. As you can see, he decided to heed my warning and did something. Of course, the real test is if he can prevent Cinder from getting to Amber." The young man knows not to lie to Rena as that can potentially result in his death.

Rena said, "You next mentioned in those files that Sin knows Cinder and possibly has feelings for her or had at one point."

Ashton explained, "I did because me and Klawdia witnessed it in Beacon's workout area. Have you heard of The Desert Mast?"

Rena shook her head, "No, I haven't."

Ashton informed, "It's a combat training school that Sin and a bear faunus named Brick attended before Shade Academy."

Rena said, "My team and I have met Team RUST. They are an interesting bunch. Rhia is the team leader, Brick is the giant who doesn't talk much, Sin's the flirt and can fight and Alena is Rhia's sister. Although I did sense hostility toward Sin. I'm surprised she hasn't killed him yet."

Ashton nodded, "That's due to the fact the White Fang killed her family then had the balls to try in recruiting her and Rhia into the organization. Since then, she developed a strong hatred towards humans. I have been attempting to dig up more information about Sin's past but haven't been having much luck. Someone clearly doesn't want me to know about it, leading me to suspect the boy was part of some crime organization prior to attending Shade."

Rena looked at the ground for a moment then back to her informant, "Continue your investigation, Ashton. The human has caught my interest."

Ashton stared at his boss with amusement, "This is a first. Having known each other for five years and a boy has caught your attention. What's next? You going to claim him and do the deed?" His imagination runs rampant of Sin and Rena making love in different positions and her moaning in ecstasy. His face morphs into one of comical giddiness while Rena gives him a deadpanned look that said, "Are you serious?"

After a while she asked, "Are you done?"

Ashton vigorously shook his head coming back to reality, "Yes. Sorry about that but can you blame me?"

Rena ignored that part, "What's more impressive is they took down a Gloom Widow, even though they had help."

The young man whistled, "That is impressive. I've heard stories about those beasts. A spider Grimm so dangerous it was hunted down to extinction. Or so we thought, looks like one survived. Anyway, I will keep you up-to-date with my findings."

Rena nodded, "Be sure that you do." They return to Klawdia and the others.

Ashton said, "It was great seeing you again, Rena. Klawdia and I are off to continue our work. Who knows, you might see us around during the Vytal Tournament. Here's a little piece of advice for you, Team RXDY. Cherish the bonds you have with each other because those bonds can be destroyed so easily. Friends today can become enemies tomorrow. Later." The faunus team watches the duo leave.

They return to town seeing the townsfolk go about their daily lives or buying souvenirs.

Rena pulls out her scroll and texts Alexia.

The two teams exchanged contact numbers before Team TEAL returned to Beacon Academy after their battle with the Ursa Armis.

The one-eyed faunus texted, "Let's have a rematch. Our first encounter during my time with the White Fang was a draw. How about it?"

A few minutes later she got a response from Alexia, "Funny. I was on my way to ask Professor Ozpin if we could have a rematch. I must confess our first encounter left me wanting to face you again."

Rena texted back, "My team and I are in Vale to spectate the Vytal Tournament. Should you be able to convince Ozpin, I assure no one will interfere this time around."

Alexia replied, "Good. I look forward to our rematch." Looking at Beacon Academy, Rena feels a strange pull towards it.

Informing her teammates where they're heading, they follow a Beacon team back to the school the closer they get, the bigger it appears until they pass Beacon's front gate allowing Team RXDY to take it in.

Xavier whistled, "Wow. So, this is Beacon Academy." The all faunus team watches the students go about their day and split up to explore.

As Rena walked around, a gasp was heard, "Rena?" Stopping in her tracks she whips around the one-eyed faunus sees her little sister figure Blake Belladonna standing there with a look of disbelief on her face. Behind her are the three other members of Team RWBY.

Rena smiled, "Hello, Blake. It's been a while since we last saw each other." She opens her arms inviting Blake to come to her, the cat faunus nearly leaps into her arms holding tight. Rena holds her gently stroking Blake's hair happy to see the Belladonna again after so long.

For Blake, she's shocked and relieved to see her big sister despite not being blood related. The cat faunus breaks the hold to look at Rena.

She said, "It's good to see you again. I've missed you." The other members of RXDY return.

Rena looked over Blake's shoulder seeing the cat faunus's team, "Who are they? Your teammates?"

Blake nodded and stepped to the side, "This is Yang Xiao Long, Ruby Rose and Weiss Schnee." She turned to her friends, "Girls, this is Rena she's like a sister to me."

Ruby waved, "Hello."

Yang gave a two-fingered salute, "What's up?"

Weiss greeted, "Nice to meet you."

Rena bowed, "As Blake mentioned, I'm Rena Schwartz. Ironic, your team is named after the jewel and your team leader's first name is the same." She turned to the side extending her hand, "These three are Xavier Stone, Draco Lance and Yumi Asuma. I'm the leader. We are Team RXDY."

Draco said, "How's it going?"

Xavier waved, "Pleasure to meet you."

Yumi smiled, "Hi. Hope we can be friends." Her smile captivates Team RWBY.

Yang snapped out of her state, "So you're the guys we saw on the news. Saved a village. Iremia, was it?"

Draco said, "That's the one." Weiss finds herself staring at him, partially by how handsome Draco is but also what faunus species he is.

She expressed, "Draco, are you a dragon faunus?"

Draco answered, "What was your first clue, Captain Obvious?" Ruby snickers.

Weiss said, "Hey! Anyway, profess...I mean Doctor Ooblock recently talked about some kind of racial extermination took place. An entire species wiped off the face of Remnant over the span of a single night. Han'ei was the name of the kingdom they lived in. It's said there was only one survivor."

Draco stated, "Wow. I'm surprised anyone knows about that kingdom these days. But to answer your question, yes. I am that survivor. Han'ei was a great kingdom that almost rivaled Mistral in terms of population and architecture, proudly built on the backs of hard labor and trade. My home kingdom prospered for generations until a demon launched her Grimm minions on my town in the dead of night. Blood, fire, smoke, screams of people being eaten filled the night sky. No one survived the massacre. Not one. Except me." He shook his head to rid himself of that night, "I do not wish to talk about it any further, Weiss."

The Schnee heiress said, "I'm sorry if my question brought up painful memories, Draco. It wasn't my intention."

Draco waved it off, "It's fine." Ruby, being a fan of fancy weapons, spots Scarlet and enters her chibi mode.

The huntress in training squealed, "That's a claymore, those are rare these days! Can I hold it?"

Yang said, "Easy there, Ruby."

Rena warned, "Believe me, young one. You don't want to hold this you won't like the end result." A mischievous glint appeared in her eye, "But if you're that interested, I'll let you."

Ruby gasped, "Really?" Walking up to the young Rose, Rena unsheathes Scarlet and holds it out to her. The moment Ruby takes it from Rena, she collapses to the collapse generating confusion from the members of Team RWBY.

Weiss blinked, "What the...?"

Rena said, "If anyone besides me wields Scarlet, it's like picking up a mountain. Sorry, Ruby." She took Scarlet but still held it out, "But you can still look at it." Ruby does that, studying the craftsmanship.

Weiss queried, "What school do you four attend? Atlas? Mistral? Shade? Beacon?"

Xavier replied, "None of them, actually. We're an unaffiliated team. Meaning we formed by circumstances."

Rena took over, "Since we have no missions coming in, we decided to spectate the Vytal Tournament. And me hopefully have a rematch with Alexia." Soon Ruby is satisfied with her inspection of the claymore, allowing Rena to sheathe it again.

Blake said, "We've seen her. She's a member of Team TEAL. Alexia is that half-dog faunus who some describe being some kind of ninja."

Yang grinned, "Like you're our ninja cat, Blake. A purr-fect ninja cat." Her teammates groan at the pun.

Draco sweat dropped, "Does she always do that?"

Weiss shook her head in exasperation, "You have no idea. Her puns are not even funny." Rena feels her scroll vibrate making her pull it out to read the message, it was from Alexia.

The message said, "You got your wish. I just got done speaking with Ozpin and he's allowing a sanctioned match between us. We'll have it tomorrow. Don't hold back."

Rena texted back, "Excellent." She puts her scroll away.

Xavier asked, "What's up, boss?"

Rena answered, "Alexia got Ozpin's approval. Our rematch is on, it's tomorrow."

Yang asked, "Did you two have a duel?"

Rena nodded, "Yes, we had a duel a long time ago and there was no victor."

Ruby said, "We look forward to the rematch. But it'll be nothing compared to Team RWBY winning the tournament and make Beacon proud!" She ends the declaration with fists on her hips.

Xavier leaned toward Draco's ear, "The girl's confident, I'll give her that."

Draco agreed, "She's certainly is."

Blake looked at Rena, "How long will you be here?"

Her older sister figure replied, "For the whole Vytal Festival. That will allow us to catch up and for my team to enjoy R&R." Team RWBY give the mercenary team a tour of Beacon Academy, the latter hear the students speaking gossip and some are surprised they're already seasoned fighters at such a young age. A few speculate RXDY are fourth year students from one of the other academies. That is until Xavier clarified they aren't. The mercenary team get an empty room at the guest dorm.

That night, Rena sits in Team RWBY's dorm room, almost immediately she questions the safety of the makeshift bunk beds. Her team stays at the guest dorm and bump into Emerald and Mercury, quickly apologize then head for their assigned room. On their end, the thieves look at each other with curiosity as if silently debating if they should gather intelligence about the faunus trio.

Back in RWBY's room Rena places her armor, boots and Scarlet near Yang's bedside.

Blake is wearing her yukata when she joins her older sister on the floor.

Rena asked, "I assumed you were still with the White Fang the last time I saw you, Blake. When did you leave?"

The cat faunus answered, "About five years ago. What the organization is doing goes against everything it once stood for. Why are you wearing an eye patch? What happened?"

Rena said, "Sienna Khan caught wind of me leaving the White Fang so she sent Adam Taurus to retrieve me, not wanting to lose a powerful member. He tracked me down to the Vale border. Adam tried to convince me to return, I declined stating the path it was going down won't do us favors. When he said he'd bring me by force, I called his bluff. We fought, blades and beliefs clashing. A miscalculation on my part allowed Adam to get past my defense and was preparing his semblance Moon Slice, I tried to evade but wasn't quick enough. The next thing I felt was excruciating pain and losing all sight from the left eye. However, I fought through the pain and left Adam in worse shape. By the time he recovered I was in Vale under the cover of a storm. I wandered the streets looking for a hospital but the shock and blood loss was setting in. I made it to my adopted father's doorstep when the adrenaline ran out, causing me to faint. My father took me in and nursed me back to health. Things were tense between us at first but over time we grew close leading him to adopt me." She looked at Blake's bow, "Why are you wearing that?"

Blake averted her gaze, "After I left the White Fang I decided to become a huntress to start anew. Me, a criminal hiding in plain sight all with the help of a big, black bow." She wiggles her hidden cat ears to emphasize.

Rena asked, "Does your team know?"

Blake nodded, "Yes. Weiss wasn't friendly initially and she revealed the reason why she had a hatred towards the faunus. The White Fang and the Schnee Dust Corps have a blood feud, as in actual bloodshed. After the engagement with Roman Torchwick at the docks, we started getting along." She feels Rena patting her head.

The one-eyed faunus said, "It's nice you made friends, Blake. I'm interested to see how much you've progressed in combat."

Blake's face darkened, "I want to say I've gotten better but I don't think I have. I'm still running away from everything, from my problems, from my past, from Adam."

Rena pulled her into a hug, "You have gotten better, Blake. Though we haven't met again until now, you have gotten better I can sense it. Listen, you need to stop running from your problems, past and Adam, they won't solve anything. You have to confront your demons and put them to rest otherwise they'll haunt you forever." Pulling back she continued, "Adam has become a danger to everyone, I lost an eye as proof. He may have been your partner at one point but now he's a threat that must be stopped."

Blake started, "But…"

Rena cut her off, "You're not alone, Blake. You have friends here at Beacon and you got me. Whether you accept it or not, if Adam shows his face during the festival I will fight him. It might hard be to swallow but fighting him is the only way to put your demons to rest. It might hurt initially but it'll get better in time. You have a bright future ahead of you, Blake. For the time being, focus on the Vytal Festival."

Blake hugged her, "I missed you."

The one-eyed faunus said, "We may not be blood related or of the same species but I will always be your big sister figure."

They heard a voice behind Rena, "Touching." They both turn around to see Yang standing wearing her sleep attire composed of a yellow short top and black shorts.

Rena commented, "Interesting choice of sleep attire."

Yang gave a side smirk, "Speak for yourself. Although I'm not complaining at what I'm seeing. It was hard to tell what you looked like with your armor on but seeing you without it, I must say you look sexy." Rena tilts her head at the compliment. It's no secret the faunus was gorgeous but all the people who took a liking to her did it for a one-night stand or steal stuff. But Yang was honest in her compliment. Rena decides to tease the blonde brawler.

She stood up, "Sexy, am I?" Rena walks up to Yang staring into her lilac eyes, tracing her jawline with a hand, down Yang's arm, her side making the blonde shiver then jump when she feels Rena cup her ass.

Blake's face turn red at the unintentional display given to her, feeling it's something straight of her Ninjas of Love book.

Yang is frozen in place by the faunus' intense stare.

Rena said, "Any man would be lucky to have you as their girlfriend or wife, Yang." She backs up giving Yang space and allowing the huntress in training to calm down.

She grinned, "I now fully understand why so many want you. You're strong, caring to those close to you and damn sexy to boot." Rena walks around the room until her eye lands on a book next to Blake's nightstand. She picks it up reading the title "Ninjas of Love", curious Rena opens the book reading a few pages. Her eyebrows shoot up and her cheeks brighten until she closes the book, putting it back on the nightstand.

Rena locked eyes with Blake, "You're a woman of culture, I see." The cat faunus gives her a nervous chuckle along with rubbing the back of her head.

Yang looked at the ceiling with a finger on her chin, "Hmm, I think our resident Ice Queen has taken a possible interest in your teammate Draco, Rena."

Rena repeated, "Ice Queen?"

Blake answered, "It's Weiss's nickname because of her attitude." Elsewhere in the lobby area, the said person suddenly sneezes.

Draco asked, "Something wrong?"

Weiss rubbed her nose, "Someone must be talking about me." The rest of the night is quiet when the Schnee heiress and Draco part ways and head for their respective dorms.

The next day Alexia awakes early to meditate and prepare for her match while the rest of her team sleeps and when the time comes, Teams RWBY, TEAL and RXDY head toward the Amity Colosseum. Even Cassandra attends, although the others can't tell if she came of her own accord or was persuaded by Emmara.

In her shared room, Rena finishes polishing Scarlet and dons her armor.

The seats fill with students and guests, Teams RWBY, TEAL and RXDY sitting in the front row.

As Rena enters the arena she sees Alexia sitting on her knees. Their long awaited rematch has finally come.

Up in the booth box, professors Port and Ooblock provide commentary.

Port said, "Ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls of all ages, we're in for a special treat. Alexia from Team TEAL is going one on one with the mysterious Rena Schwartz of the mercenary team RXDY we've been hearing so much about."

Ooblock agreed, "We certainly are. This should be intense." Getting to her feet Alexia locks eyes with her opponent, her anticipation threatening to boil over.

She next watches Rena draw Scarlet and enter her battle stance, Alexia mirrors her action drawing her short sword yet neither make the first move. A sudden breeze comes through and acts like the whistle, prompting the two to dash forward at blinding speed then meet in the center, blades clash and generating a shockwave. As steel grinds steel, Rena's superior strength pushing Alexia down, Alexia jabs with her free hand, catching Rena under her ribs and with her semblance teleports behind her. Alexia's knee kicks the back of Rena's knee and Alexia vanishes again appearing in front of Rena and going for another kick only for Rena to block her leg and push upwards knocking Alexia off balance. Rushing Alexia, Rena goes for a spear tackle, crouching down and aiming her shoulder at Alexia's gut.

As she stumbles back Alexia sees Rena charging her and reaches for her belt taking one of her throwing knives and flings it at Rena. Rena with incredible ease moves Scarlet and blocks the knife causing it to glance off, but the distraction worked. Alexia vanishes again appearing just in front of Rena, crouched and sweeps at her legs causing her to trip, but Rena's trained reflexes allow her to move her hands and catch herself, but in the process she was forced to drop Scarlet.

Alexia reaches down placing Rena in a sleeper hold, but Rena's instincts kick in and she flips Alexia over her shoulder before she can lock the hold. Kneeling over Alexia to throw a punch Rena barely manages to avoid Alexia's knee flying up to catch her in the face. Alexia's knee manages to graze her, distracting Rena long enough for Alexia to teleport away and return to her feet.

Alexia flings her rope dart at Rena, the angle of her throw allowing the rope to wrap around Rena's leg and Alexia pulls back tripping Rena causing her to fall to one knee. Alexia teleports again appearing beside Rena her leg flying up, kicking her in the head and knocking her back to her feet. As Rena stumbles back Alexia dashes forward unleashing a flurry of punches and kicks to keep Rena stunned, but after the first set Rena forces herself out of her haze and blocks one of Alexia's punches before snaking her arm behind Alexia's neck and pulling her forward.

Rena's knee raises up to meet Alexia's face causing the half-faunus to recoil. Teleporting away Alexia shakes the cobwebs from her mind and flings another knife at Rena before teleporting behind her and flinging another, teleporting again to her flank and flinging a third, to her other flank, a fourth then in front of her and a fifth. Rena blocks the first three, but the fourth and fifth hit her, her Aura protecting her as the blades glance off her skin, but she feels the impact, like a ball of hail striking her in a storm.

Rena turns to Alexia to see her throw something else, she dodges and watches the marble sized projectile explode upon impacting the floor erupting in a thick cloud of smoke. The cloud engulfs Rena and she can sense Alexia, she had teleported inside the cloud with her, she was going to attack her blind spot. Closing her eyes Rena relies on her hearing, but she can't hear Alexia's movements, no she wouldn't Alexia was trained in stealth, remembering how easily she attacked the White Fang camp that night. She had to rely on her reflexes.

She felt Alexia's kick as the ninja's leg struck her side and Rena turned, absorbing the impact and catching Alexia's leg before turning back flinging Alexia outside the smoke cloud and charging after her. Alexia rolls as she lands getting to her feet just in time to see Rena right before she tackles her. As Rena grapples Alexia, the half-faunus teleports, but with Rena grappling her she is teleported too. They appear a few feet above the floor with Rena falling first and Alexia landing on top of her, the impact takes the wind from Rena's lungs as she lands on her back, but she manages to keep her hold on Alexia.

Alexia takes her knife and flips it around and stabbing it into Rena's arm, once again her Aura protecting her from the blade's penetration, but she can feel the impact and pain it causes. Alexia stabs again and again before finally attempting to push the blade into Rena's arm and finally Rena releases her and pushes her off as she clutches at her pained arm. Rolling onto her side Alexia struggles to regain her breath before getting to her feet and locking eyes with Rena as she stood as well, reclaiming Scarlet.

Alexia grinned at Rena, "This is a lot more fun with no one to interrupt us" Rena's aura heals all the damage done to her.

The one-eyed faunus declared, "That was a warm-up." Alexia blinked in surprise as Rena continued, "Let's see how you do when the gloves come off, Alexia. You should be honored, very few people have seen my full power. Judging by the way you're breathing, you must be getting tired." She herself is winded but her relentless training regimen and faunus traits are benefiting her.

Alexia said, "Well, I did say no holding back."

Ooblock commented, "This match is getting intense, folks. Rena seems to be withstanding everything Alexia throws at her."

Professor Port agreed, "I concur. But let's not count Alexia out just yet." Alexia returns to her stance, drawing her short sword holding it reversed, the blade running the length of her arm as she locks eyes with Rena again. Rena raises Scarlet and again the two run toward each other. Halfway to meeting Alexia teleports appearing behind Rena and throwing her rope dart around her leg, but Rena would not fall for the same trick twice. Turning as the rope encircled her leg Rena pulled her leg back stopping the rope from trapping her. Rena frees her leg and pulls the rope dart toward her, propelling Alexia forward right into Rena's waiting hand, lifts the ninja faunus up then slams her down to the ground in a powerful chokeslam the force behind it takes a chunk out of Alexia's aura.

Alexia teleports again throwing a smoke bomb before teleporting again and flinging a throwing knife, teleports again and a second knife. She teleports around the smoke cloud flinging knife after knife into the smoke cloud assaulting Rena from all blind sports thanks to the smoke. Inside Rena holds her ground unable to block the knives she lets them hit her from all angles trying to find a pattern to Alexia's attacks, but she discovers Alexia is just as smart as she is and attacks from random angles.

At their seat Xavier returns with food and drinks for his teammates, handing to each of them before sitting down eating a piece of popcorn.

He queried, "Have I missed anything?"

Yumi replied, "Not much." At her seat, Emmara hopes Alexia isn't hurt too much despite Alexia's reassurance.

Finally, the knives stop, Rena concludes either Alexia had run out or she was waiting for her to make a move suddenly she feels Alexia's sword slash across her back before another slash hits her across her torso then she feels the blade across her back again before a kick to the back of her knee and a knee meets her face as she falls, but Rena catches the leg as it hits her.

Grappling Alexia's leg Rena pulls her forward as she stands up, placing her hand against Alexia's chest and pushing down Rena slams Alexia into the ground with enough force to sweep the smoke away. Their friends in the stands see the smoke blown away and spot Alexia on her back, the hologram screens above the stage showing Rena's aura just below half as Alexia's is close to the red, she was losing. Alexia's eyes fly open and she wraps her legs around Rena's head and twists throwing Rena to the side and Alexia is now on top of her and she rears her fists back, one, two, three, four, five her punches fly faster than any of them can see before Alexia plants her feet and jumps off Rena, as she flips back in the air she throws her rope dart at Rena who had just gotten back up.

Rena catches the dart as it flies toward her and pulls back, reeling Alexia toward her. Alexia, as she flies toward Rena, throws her last knife at her aimed at Rena's eye. Instinct alone causes Rena to block the knife and Alexia punches her in the face as she flies by, landing behind Rena, Alexia turns around throwing one last high kick that would connect with Rena's head before the one-eyed faunus whips around swinging Scarlet.

The claymore connects with Alexia's side, the strength of the swing sending her flying off the stage and into the wall below the first row of the spectator seats before she falls to the floor.

The screens show Rena's aura in the red, nearly depleted as she falls to one knee while Alexia's is completely drained.

Emmara jumps over the railing and runs to Alexia as she slowly turns onto her back coughing.

Lifting Alexia into her arms Emmara fought back her tears, "Are you okay?" The spectators start clapping, a few even whistle, loving what they saw. Even Team RWBY is impressed. Rena raises her sword arm into the air over the hard-fought win.

Ruby said, "That was...awesome! All the fancy moves." She imitates the moves as best as she can.

Yang grinned, "Now I wish Team RXDY were an official team and attended Beacon so we could get a crack at them."

Xavier laughed, "You would get owned by us."

Yang stared at the ox faunus, "How about we find out?"

Weiss said, "No, Yang, save it for the tournament." Rena uses Scarlet to hold herself up as she pants, the battle took more of her than she thought. Not that she was complaining, Alexia brought her A-game.

Alexia told Emmara despite her pain, "I'll live. Rena avoided my vitals." She managed to crack a smile, "Still, I enjoyed that match. Rena did learn from her mistakes during our first encounter. She's quite the fighter."

Rena answered back, "Years of combat and training does wonders for you. Though I admit you put up quite a fight, haven't been pushed that hard since my duel with Adam Taurus."

Alexia grinned painfully, "Your durability has gone up, your aura reserve as well. That caught me off-guard. Threw a wrench into my strategy. It forced me to become more aggressive in order to win, I had to overcome your durability and that forced me to play right into your hands. Assuming you don't have any more hidden talents, next time I'll have a better advantage"

'Hm, if only you knew, Alexia.' Rena thought.

Emmara repeated, "Next time? Do you have to fight again?"

Alexia told her, "Yes, I do. I've met someone who can best me." She stood up, "No one gets stronger by fighting weaker opponents. One can only improve by fighting an opponent of similar or superior strength. I have added Rena's name to my list, one day I will defeat her and then she will train to become stronger so she can defeat me again." Alexia grinned again, "Then I will return to defeat her."

Emmara asked, "So you'll never stop each other? What's the point?"

Alexia told her, "To reach our maximum potential. And I will never stop until I've reached that." She looked to the victor, "We will fight again soon, Rena."

Rena grunted as Xavier helped her stand, "We certainly will. I'm not called the One-Eyed Devil for anesthetic reasons. Don't take the loss personally." With Xavier's help she walks over to the half-dog faunus extending her hand, Alexia immediately recognizes the gesture. She gained Rena's respect. Alexia shakes her opponent's hand in a display of sportsmanship, earning them another round of applause from the crowd.

After that Xavier helps Rena walk out of the amphitheater. Once outside the front gate, they were greeted by Team RWBY.

Blake asked, "You okay, Rena?"

The one-eyed fauns gave her the thumbs-up, "I'll live. I quite enjoyed the fight, though. I will have more tricks up my sleeve the next time Alexia and I duel." Her stomach growls, craving food. Team RWBY lead the all faunus team to a famous stand they saw being set up. By the time they reach it, it's almost lunch time.

Walking up to the food stand, they spot the old man from Dust 'til Dawn finish preparing things. Looking at the menu, Rena settles for a chicken sandwich, an apple, rice and a glass of water, Xavier picks chicken, apple and potato, Draco settles with pasta topped with chicken, tomato sauce and with a salad and Yumi decides to eat a steak cooked medium-rare, salad and water.

Nodding, the old man sprints to the kitchen, the gang hearing food being cooked then he returns with the cooked food, hot and ready to eat.

Draco said, "That's what I call service. How did he do that?"

Yang shrugged, "Beats me." Rena pays the man and the team digs in. Team RWBY watches with comical stunned expressions as the faunus team devours their meal then wipe their mouths.

Draco sighed, "Ahh, that was good." He gave the Dust 'til Dawn owner the thumbs-up, "You did well, sir." The old man nods in thank you.

Yumi asked, "What now?"

Ruby said, "My team has to train for the tournament."

Xavier offered, "If you want, we can spar with you. Test your skills."

Yang pounded her fists together, grinning, "Awesome! I wanted to have a crack at you."

Weiss nodded in agreement, "It'd be interesting to see your combat styles in person."

Ruby smiled, "Yeah. We can use this as some preview to what we're facing in the tournament, even though you four don't attend any of the academies."

Blake gave her own, "It'd be a great way to shake off boredom. Especially after Professor Port's class."

Yumi queried, "His class are that boring?"

Blake shook her head, "You have no idea. He spends half of the session talking about his days as a Hunter."

Draco sweat dropped, "That is boring."

Ruby said, "There's an open field not too far away. We can use that. Prepare to face the winner of the Vytal Tournament: Team RWBY!" RXDY smile at the girl's enthusiasm.

Elsewhere, Cinder paces at what she's witnessed over the past few days.

Security has been increased and when she pressured Emerald, the mint-haired girl cracked telling what she told their torturer. Safe to say, Cinder was pissed. With the plan now revealed, she needed to be really careful. Emerald would be punished later.

If she fails in her mission, the Queen won't be pleased. The thought of her punishing Cinder made the black-haired woman shake in fear. That's a fate worse than death.

'I won't let this setback halt my progress.' Cinder thought.

A/N: Chapter 21 done.

Here, the team return to Vale where the Rena has a reunion with Blake and meet Ashton Fall and Klawdia.

Later, Rena and Alexia had their rematch where Rena came out victorious after a fierce battle.

We're getting to close to the end.

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Stay tuned for chapter 22.

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