Cover Art by CHE3ZY

Merry Christmas everyone. Took longer than expected but I was able to get this one done in time as a Christmas gift for all of you. Please let me know what you think of it and please like, follow, and share this fic and please vote for your favorite OC on my profile. Enjoy!


Location Unknown:

The moon hung low in the ink-black sky as Jai, Terre, and Rahm moved with fluid precision along the sheer, towering walls of Salem's ominous castle. The jagged bottom hundreds of feet below seemed like a hungry maw, ready to devour anything that dared to fall. Their every movement was a dance of calculated stealth. Clad in their advanced WRAITH armor that incorporated photo-reflective panels, the Guardians manipulated the adaptive camouflage, rendering them nearly invisible in the moonlight.

As they climbed, the armor seamlessly blended with the surroundings, creating an illusion of transparency. Jai led the ascent, his powerful limbs propelling him upward with feline grace. Behind him, Terre followed suit. Rahm, ever watchful, brought up the rear, his keen eyes scanning for potential threats. The night was eerily silent, save for the distant creaks and groans of the wind battering the castle itself. They moved with the fluidity of shadows, exploiting the natural crevices and irregularities in the stonework to avoid the attention of Salem's malevolent Grimm creations.

A seer Grimm soared overhead, its eye fixed on the vast expanse below. The Guardians froze, becoming one with the stone surface. The adaptive camouflage did its work, bending and refracting the moonlight until they were virtually indistinguishable from the rock. The seer Grimm's eye flickered with disinterest as it continued its patrol, unaware of the intruders scaling the castle walls. Once the coast was clear, the trio resumed their ascent, reaching heights that would make any ordinary Huntsman tremble with vertigo.

Salem's castle loomed above, an imposing silhouette against the night sky. The Guardians, now mere whispers in the shadows, found the subtle crevice within the cold stone walls. It wasn't overt but it offered a clandestine entrance into the heart of the castle. Silently, they slipped through the opening, leaving the perilous heights behind. The adaptive camouflage shifted, their armor now mirroring the darkened interior of the castle. The air inside was thick with ancient malice, and they tread with the caution of phantoms. Their infiltration was a testament to both their physical prowess and the cutting-edge technology woven into their armor. As they delved deeper, the castle whispered with secrets and the promise of confrontation. The moon cast its soft glow over the castle's parapets, unaware that three elusive shadows had breached the fortress's defenses. The Guardians moved onward, their mission clear — to face the darkness that lurked within and bring an end to Salem's malevolent reign.


Vale:

James stood on the bridge of his new flagship, overseeing the final preparations for his forces' departure from Vale. The general's head was bombarded with so many different conflicting thoughts ranging from his feelings for Glynda to leaving Vale in such an abysmal state. He also couldn't help but think about the status of Special Mission Unit 117. He had no way of tracking their mission progress and he didn't like it. Had it been any other mission he wouldn't have felt this way, but with his three best soldiers going after Salem, it was an entirely different story.

"General Ironwood, sir."

James' train of thought was interrupted by the voice of one of his officers. The general looked over and spotted Major Payne approaching.

"Major," James said with a nod.

"Sir, the other ships have reported in. Everyone is aboard and accounted for. Total casualties number at 189."

James lowered his head out of respect for the fallen soldiers of Atlas. Officers such as Major Payne had been tasked with taking count of the dead and wounded. Their losses weren't crushing, but he mourned the loss of his soldiers nonetheless.

"Make arrangements for the funeral service when we get back," said James.

"Yes sir," replied Payne, "there is, however, one more thing."

"That being?" James asked with a raised eyebrow.

"Jacques Schnee is here. He came to take his daughter home."

James sighed. This was the last thing he needed. Jacques' arrival would only make this withdrawal from Vale even more difficult.

"Very well," said James reluctantly, "I'll go talk to him. I want you to oversee the final preparations for our departure."

"Yes sir."

"Have Penny's remains been recovered?" Asked Ironwood. "How are Ciel and the members of team FNKI?"

"Affirmative, sir," replied Major Payne, "and they are doing fine. Ciel's injuries were severe, but she will be fine."

"Good," said the general, "make sure Penny's kept under close guard."


It was as if the world had crumbled all around them. Beacon had been overrun by the Grimm, numerous innocent bystanders died, team CRDL was dead, Neptune was dead, Vale was in serious disarray, and all of team PGRT was dead. Penny, Terre, Rahm, and Jai had been their friends and now they were gone. For better or worse, Ruby and Yang were still unconscious, though this spared them the devastation of the loss of their friends.

Between teams JNPR and RWBY, Weiss and Pyrrha had taken the news the worst. Weiss may have been raised in the Atlas model of keeping her emotions hidden, but even the Ice Queen couldn't contain her sorrow once she heard the news of Jai, Terre, and Rahm having been killed in action. Her tears weren't just for them, however. She also cried for Penny too.

A full day had passed since they received the news from Goodwitch and Ironwood and none of them had left the hospital. For one, they weren't going to leave Ruby and Yang alone, and secondly, they were still too shocked by the news.

Nora, Ren, and Jaune found themselves being the ones to act as the pillars of support for Weiss and Pyrrha. Despite their best support efforts, with more grief piling up by the day, they could do little to abate their friends' pain.

Pyrrha had been the worst off by far. Even though she'd been reassured by Goodwitch, Ironwood, and Qrow that it wasn't her fault, Pyrrha still blamed herself for Penny's death. While she could see that Cinder had planned for her to kill Penny, she still felt that she needed to bear the blame. Had she accepted the Fall Maiden's powers sooner none of this would have happened. The weight of the decision to take on the mantle of the Fall Maiden had plagued her before and during her match with Penny. She hadn't been herself in the slightest and her focus had been in complete disarray. Penny would still be alive had it not been for her. She was certain of it.

Even when she asked Jai for advice, he told her the brutal truth and she still didn't do what she needed to do. She waited too long, and Penny paid the price for her poor decision-making. Moreover, Jai, Terre, and Rahm wouldn't be dead if she had simply accepted her role as the Fall Maiden. She could have used that power to protect them.

Pyrrha would never forgive herself. She hadn't slept since receiving the news and she refused all food and drink. She'd fallen into a deep depression and her friends had taken notice of it quickly. Nora and Jaune begged her to eat, drink, and sleep but Pyrrha wouldn't listen. Nora and Juane made the doctors aware of Pyrrha's behavior and they took very serious note of the situation. If that behavior continued, then she would need to be placed on suicide watch.

On a fortunate note, Ren had some success in consoling Weiss. The heiress hadn't managed to sleep well, but at least she wasn't neglecting nourishment.

Teams JNPR and RWBY, except Blake, were still in the hospital room. Ruby and Yang were still unconscious. No one said anything. Either no one knew what to say or no one wanted to say anything. There was nothing to be said.

The doors to the hospital room opened to reveal General Ironwood, who looked even more exhausted than before. Jaune, Nora, Ren, and Weiss focused their attention on the general while Pyrrha looked as though she couldn't be bothered.

"Hello students," said Ironwood.

"General Ironwood," said Ren with a nod, "did something happen?"

"Yes, but nothing bad," replied the general, "I came to inform you that my forces and I will be returning to Atlas."

The students looked a bit surprised. They didn't expect the general and his forces to leave now. There was still work to be done in Vale and especially in Beacon.

"But is that a good idea?" Asked Jaune. "What about the Grimm that remain in Vale and Beacon?"

James frowned.

"It's for the best," replied Ironwood, "the Huntsmen of Vale can handle what remains. I have to return to Atlas, but that's not why I came here to talk to you all." James paused to make sure he had their full attention. Pyrrha still looked as though she couldn't be bothered, however.

"Weiss, Pyrrha," said the general, "you two will be coming back to Atlas."

That was enough to get Pyrrha's attention.

"What do you mean?" Asked Weiss.

James sighed.

"Weiss, your father is here to take you home. He's already spoken to Professor Goodwitch and the two of them have finalized your return to Atlas."

Weiss looked furious, her bottled-up anger was let loose.

"NO!" Yelled Weiss. "I refuse! I'm not going anywhere. My place is here with my friends."

James looked a bit sad. He admired her commitment to her friends, but this was out of his control.

"I know this isn't what you wanted to hear, but I'm afraid there is nothing I can do."

Weiss moved to voice additional protest, but Ironwood beat her to it.

"ENOUGH WEISS!" James silenced her and scared the students. "You're returning to Atlas and that's final."

No one said anything; they were too afraid to. Seeing that he'd regained full control of the situation, James continued.

"As I was saying," said James, "Pyrrha, you will also be coming to Atlas." Pyrrha looked shocked. "Professor Goodwitch, myself, and the doctors here deemed it the best course of action. In Atlas, you'll have the best medical care and with the current situation here in Vale you will be better off in Atlas while you recover."

James was careful not to divulge the true reason for relocating her to Atlas in front of the others.

"Weiss, Pyrrha," said General Ironwood, "I've taken the liberty of having your things packed and loaded onto one of my ships. I'll give you a few minutes to say your goodbyes. I'll see you both in Atlas."

The general turned his attention to the other students.

"To the rest of you," he said, "it was a pleasure meeting you all. Thank you for everything you've done, and I hope our paths cross again."

With that said James took his leave and left the students to themselves.

Nora was the first one to break the silence.

"I can't believe this is happening," she said sadly, "I don't want us to be apart."

Ren held her hand, silently reassuring her. Jaune placed his hands on both Ren's and Nora's shoulders.

"You both are welcome to stay with me and my family," said Jaune with a comforting smile. It wasn't a secret that Ren and Nora were orphans. The two of them had been together all their lives, having only each other.

"Really?!" Asked Nora with beaming eyes.

"Yeah," replied Jaune, "we've got plenty of space at home and my family would love to meet you and Ren."

"Oh thank you Jaune," Nora said as she hugged Jaune tightly, threatening to squeeze the life out of him, "but who will take care of Ruby and Yang?"

"We will."

The students were surprised by the new voice. They turned and saw two tall men standing in the doorway. One was blonde, blue-eyed, and muscular and the other was dark-haired, red-eyed, and lanky. They quickly recognized them as Yang's and Ruby's father and uncle.

"Glad to see you kids are doing okay," said Qrow. "Tai and I spoke to Ironwood on the way here. Sorry about the news Weiss."

Weiss looked both defeated and annoyed. It seemed Qrow had a knack for getting under the skin of Schnees.

Ren let out a tired sigh.

"So what happens next?" Asked Ren. "It's clear where we're all going. Nora and I will be going with Jaune, Ruby and Yang will be returning to Patch, and Weiss and Pyrrha will be going to Atlas. What is not clear, however, is what happens next. What is the next course of action?"

"Yeah, what are we supposed to do now that Beacon has been overrun? Blake has disappeared and team PGRT is gone." Nora looked so downcast, but it just wasn't her. All were still grappling with the loss of their sister team and Blake's disappearance.

Tai and Qrow shared a silent look.

"For now," said Tai, "your focus should just be on taking some time off to recover from all of this. You've all been through a lot. Professor Goodwitch and the staff of Beacon will take care of the Grimm and reclaim the school. When the time is right, you'll all continue your studies."

"But will we all see each other again?" Asked Jaune.

Pyrrha and Weiss grimaced at that question. Out of everyone, the two of them were the most uncertain of their futures. Although Pyrrha was deep in her depression, she wasn't oblivious to why she was being relocated to Atlas. They wanted to keep her in a secure environment. She wasn't sure what would happen to her after. Would she remain in Atlas? Would she be sent home to Argus? She didn't know, but only time would tell.

Weiss, on the other hand, was in a slightly different boat than Pyrrha. While Weiss was uncertain, she had a rough idea of what to expect from her father. Her return to Atlas would be akin to being sent to prison. The chances of her father letting her return were slim to none.

The doors to the room opened once more to reveal a team of nurses, a pair of SDC security guards, and an Atlas soldier. The nurses went about preparing Yang and Ruby for transport back to Patch as the SDC guards arrived to bring Weiss to her father.

"Ms. Schnee it's time to go," said one of the guards.

Weiss ignored him. She focused her attention on Yang and Ruby. They along with Blake had become her closest friends at Beacon. Though Blake's actions of disappearing certainly damaged the progress the two had made.

Ruby, Yang, I'm sorry. I promise I'll see you again someday.

Weiss and team JNPR watched in sadness as the nurses wheeled Ruby and Yang out of the room. It was made even more painful knowing that the two sisters were leaving without being able to say goodbye properly.

Tai and Qrow took note of their collective sadness before Tai spoke up.

"With the CCT network down, feel free to write to Ruby and Yang. I know they'll be happy to hear from you all."

Qrow gave a friendly smile.

"See you kids around," said the alcoholic Huntsman.

Tai and Qrow followed after the nurses and left.

"Ms. Schnee," said one of the SDC guards, "we have to leave now."

Weiss frowned. The heiress looked at her friends and spoke.

"This is goodbye for now. Be safe in Mistral you three. Pyrrha, I'll see you in Atlas."

Nora rushed forward and enveloped Weiss in a bone-crushing hug.

"I'm going to miss you, Weiss!" Nora was on the verge of tears.

"I…I'll miss you too…Nora," Weiss said in between breaths. Nora's hug was crushing her almost comically.

Nora finally let go and Weiss breathed a sigh of relief. Weiss quickly composed herself.

"Goodbye Weiss," said Ren, "I hope our paths cross again soon."

Jaune looked a bit nervous as he mustered the courage to speak.

"See you again soon Weiss," said Jaune.

Weiss gave them a polite nod and a small smile. The heiress placed a comforting hand on Pyrrha's shoulder. Weiss felt her soul ache as she looked into the once life-filled eyes of her friend. Pyrrha's eyes lacked their usual light. The girl was deep in the throes of depression. Weiss silently prayed for her friend. She would need to stay close to her in Atlas. Pyrrha would need all the support she could get.

With great reluctance, Weiss turned and left the room with the two SDC guards, leaving team JNPR all alone with the Atlas soldier, who quickly cleared his throat and spoke.

"Ms. Nikos," he said, "I'm to act as your personal escort. The nurses will return shortly to help transport you onto the ship."

The Invincible Girl barely acknowledged the soldier. She was still processing everything and it wasn't lost on her teammates.

Jaune looked at the soldier and spoke.

"Excuse me, sir," said Jaune, "but do you think we could have a moment with Pyrrha alone?"

"I'm under strict orders to stay by her side," replied the soldier.

"Please," said Jaune with pleading eyes.

The soldier stared for a few moments before reluctantly nodding.

"I'll be just outside."

"Thank you," said Nora.

Jaune took a deep breath, his voice gentle, "Pyrrha, you need to eat something. It's been over a day, and you haven't slept either. Please, let us help you."

Pyrrha's eyes remained distant, lost in a sea of guilt and sorrow.

"I don't deserve to eat, Jaune. I... I killed Penny. I let my emotions control me during the fight, and now she's gone. And Jai, Terre, Rahm... they're gone too."

Ren's stoic expression softened, and he placed a comforting hand on Pyrrha's shoulder.

"It's not your fault, Pyrrha. None of us could have foreseen what happened."

Pyrrha, however, seemed unconvinced. She thought to herself.

If only I had chosen to become the Fall Maiden earlier. Maybe then I could have protected them. I could have helped them.

Nora, usually bubbly and energetic, sat solemnly.

"Pyrrha, you can't blame yourself for everything. We're a team; we look out for each other."

Jaune nodded in agreement, "Nora's right. We're here for you, Pyrrha. You don't have to face this alone."

But Pyrrha's eyes flickered with a conflict that mirrored the turmoil within her.

"Jaune, before Jai left, he told me that a true Huntress needs to make difficult choices. I... I didn't choose in time."

Jaune, oblivious to the unspoken sentiments lingering in the air, reached out, gently clasping Pyrrha's hand. While he was present when Ozpin prepared the aura transfer between Pyrrha and Amber, Jaune didn't have a clue as to what had been going on.

"Sometimes the choices are hard to make, Pyrrha. Sometimes we don't choose the correct course of action in the moment, but we can't let that consume us."

A few minutes of uncomfortable silence passed. Pyrrha's lifeless gaze didn't recede. Nora gave Ren a worried look followed by a very subtle jerk of her head. Ren gave the smallest of nods and stood up, his gaze meeting Jaune's.

"I'm going to check on Sun. He's still dealing with Neptune's death. Want to join me Jaune?"

Jaune nodded, acknowledging the shared grief that bound them all.

"Yeah," said Jaune before he placed a comforting hand on Pyrrha's shoulder, "I'll be back later Pyrrha."

As Ren and Jaune left the room, the atmosphere shifted, leaving Pyrrha and Nora alone. The two redheads sat in silence for a moment before Nora gave Pyrrha's hand a gentle squeeze.

"Pyrrha," said Nora, "I feel like there's more to this than you're telling us. Please talk to me."

Pyrrha glanced at Nora, her eyes filled with sorrow. She couldn't tell her everything; she swore she would not tell anyone. She didn't know exactly what was going on, but she could surmise that she'd gotten herself involved in something big.

"Nora, have you ever... had feelings for someone?" Pyrrha sighed, her fingers absentmindedly tracing the edge of the blanket.

Nora let a small smirk etch itself onto her face.

"I have and I do," replied Nora, "but is this about Jaune or Jai?"

Pyrrha felt her face go warm. She tried to hide her blushing, but Nora could see it clear as day.

"Both," replied the Invincible Girl, "I was infatuated with Jaune at first, but as time passed, I found myself drawn more and more to Jai. I didn't realize it until just before the fight with Cinder. Now I don't know if I loved Jai or if it was just... I don't know."

Nora, understanding the complexity of emotions, leaned in.

"Ren and I saw you and Jai sitting and talking during the tournament. I thought it all looked so sweet." Nora let a loving smile come forth. "Love is complicated, Pyrrha. Sometimes it takes time to figure out. And who says you can't love both in different ways?"

That last bit made Pyrrha look at Nora in a confused and shocked sort of way. Nora immediately put her hands up in defense.

"I meant to like both platonically and romantically. Not talking about being polyamorous, but I mean some people are into that sort of thing. Didn't mean to offend," said Nora with a nervous laugh.

"It's fine, Nora," Pyrrha gave a small smile, "I'm definitely not polyamorous. I know that what I initially felt for Jaune was romantic love, or at least I think it was. I'm not sure if what I felt for Jai was romantic or platonic."

Pyrrha's eyes reflected uncertainty, torn between the affection she felt for Jaune and the newfound emotions she discovered with Jai. Nora's words lingered in the air, a gentle reminder that the heart's journey is seldom straightforward. As the minutes passed, Nora sensed Pyrrha's internal struggle and decided to share a piece of her own story.

"You know, I've always loved Ren, but breaking through his emotional walls is like trying to move a mountain. I've been patient, though. Love takes time." Nora smiled, her eyes twinkling with a hint of mischief. "And who knows, maybe you'll figure it out when you least expect it. Love has a funny way of surprising us."

Pyrrha, her thoughts a tumultuous whirlwind, absorbed Nora's words.

"I... I didn't think about it that way. I fawned over Jaune because I thought he was the first to treat me like a normal person. He was different from everyone I previously met, and I was head over heels for it, but he was always so oblivious to me; he had eyes for someone else."

Nora frowned, seeing her friend's sorrow. Nora knew Pyrrha was head over heels for Jaune and seeing Pyrrha constantly hurt by Jaune's fawning over Weiss always pained the hyperactive ginger. Nora tried to encourage Pyrrha to make her intentions known to Jaune, but the Invincible Girl never did. She was just too shy.

"But it turns out I'd been wrong," continued Pyrrha, "Jaune wasn't the first to treat me like a normal person. It was actually Jai."

Nora listened intently as Pyrrha continued.

"I met Jai the day before I met Jaune and Jai had always been there for me. I can't explain it, but he just was. I was crushed when Jaune went to ask Weiss to the dance," a small tear escaped from Pyrrha's eye, "but it was Jai and Penny who came to comfort me. Jai asked me to the dance and in that moment, I was so happy I forgot about everything else."

Nora listened intently, silently wishing the other girls were here to listen to this.

"He was always there for me, Nora," Pyrrha frowned. "I think what I felt for Jaune was just a crush, but as to what I felt for Jai I…I'm not sure what it truly was. He was so hard to read." Pyrrha felt her eyes begin to water profusely. "And I will never be able to find out."

Pyrrha couldn't contain it any longer. She let the tears flow freely. Nora immediately enveloped her friend, unable to see her in such pain. Pyrrha hugged Nora back tightly and continued to cry.


Location Unknown:

In the shadowed corridors of Salem's foreboding castle, Terre, Rahm, and Jai moved with a fluidity that betrayed their incredible strength and power. The adaptive camouflage of their armor blended seamlessly with the darkness, making them nearly invisible as they advanced through the labyrinthine passages.

Terre, armed with his three-sectioned staff, moved with the grace of a phantom. He effortlessly dispatched Grimm sentinels that dared cross their path, his movements silent and lethal.

Rahm, armed with a grenade belt, partisan, and an assortment of explosives, worked methodically. His hands moved with practiced precision as he planted small charges in strategic locations. The explosive expert ensured their path remained clear and, if necessary, provided a swift escape route. His silent efficiency spoke volumes about his experience in the art of demolitions.

Jai, ever the silent assassin, moved with a predatory grace. His sword, a deadly amalgamation of close-quarters finesse and ranged firepower, dispatched Grimm threats with swift, surgical strikes.

As they navigated the sprawling castle, the trio encountered increasingly complex security measures, from patrolling Grimm to security cameras and motion detectors. Their WRAITH suits came equipped with jamming technology, rendering the security system harmless. In moments of reprieve, Rahm took the opportunity to converse, his voice barely above a whisper.

"Melon, clear path ahead."

Terre acknowledged with a nod, his staff twirling in a mesmerizing dance as he dispatched an unsuspecting Ursa. The rhythmic echoes of their movements synchronized with the pulse of the castle, a clandestine symphony of infiltration.

Jai, scanning the surroundings with keen eyes, added, "Rahm, how's our exit strategy looking?"

Rahm continued his work, attaching a charge to a hidden access panel.

"Solid. We've got multiple escape routes rigged."

The trio continued their stealthy advance, their teamwork and synergy a testament to years of shared experiences and missions. The castle's defenses, despite their ominous facade, crumbled before the might of the Guardians. Silent but deadly, they left a trail of eliminated Grimm and strategically placed explosives, inching closer to their elusive target. They approached an imposing set of double doors, sealed with ancient glyphs that hinted at Salem's looming presence beyond. The anticipation hung thick in the air as the Guardians prepared for the ultimate challenge ahead.


Outskirts of Vale:

In the outskirts of Vale, far removed from the vibrant city lights, a dimly lit bar held a solitary figure nursing a drink. Neo sat alone, her reflection distorted in the polished surface of the bar counter. The atmosphere around her was heavy, a reflection of the burden she carried in her heart. The muted sounds of chatter and clinking glasses filled the air, but Neo existed in a silent world of her own. Her eyes, usually vibrant with mischief, were clouded with sorrow and anger.

A delicate hand gripped the glass, the amber liquid within mirroring the storm within her. As she sipped the bitter concoction, memories of Roman flashed through her mind. His confident grin, and his charismatic charm – all silenced by the cruelty of fate. Neo's gaze hardened as her thoughts turned to General Ironwood and Cinder, architects of the tragedy that had befallen them.

Her heart ached with the weight of vengeance, a burning desire for retribution against those who had taken Roman from her. Ironwood, for his merciless actions, torturing Roman. Cinder, for ensnaring them in her plans that they wanted nothing to do with. The anger simmered beneath Neo's cool exterior, a tempest threatening to consume her.

She contemplated Ruby, the silver-eyed Huntress who had crossed paths with them. Neo's expression twisted with uncertainty. Did Ruby play a role in Roman's demise? The question lingered, a subtle but gnawing doubt that fueled the flames of her anger. The bar's patrons remained oblivious to Neo's internal turmoil. She continued to sit in stoic silence, her eyes fixated on a world that had dealt her an unjust hand.

Roman's hat, perched on the stool beside her, served as a silent testament to the absence that echoed through her very being. Amid her grief, Neo's resolve solidified. A vow etched in the silence of her heart – she would track down those responsible, bring them to justice, and ensure Roman's legacy lived on through the reckoning she would unleash. The dimness of the bar cast shadows across Neo's features, concealing the intricate dance of emotions beneath the surface.

Her sadness transformed into a silent fury, a storm waiting to break free. As she finished her drink, Neo rose from the stool, leaving the bar with a purposeful stride. Vengeance was a cold companion, but Neo embraced it with a determination that spoke louder than any words she could not utter. The outskirts of Vale whispered with the unspoken oath of a silent avenger, destined to navigate the shadows in pursuit of justice for the one she had lost.


Location Unknown:

The three Guardians moved with the precision of shadows. Their adaptive camouflage technology rendered them nearly invisible, allowing them to evade the vigilant eyes of Salem's twisted creations that guarded the door to her throne room. Silently moving through the darkened halls, they reached the entrance of Salem's throne room and with swift and silent precision they dispatched the Grimm that stood guard.

A quick thermal scan of the door revealed the presence of a single individual behind the doors, signifying that their target was within. The sensors within their armor analyzed the door for any signs of traps or significant locks.

Nothing.

It was suspicious. The witch must have had a high degree of confidence in her safety here, but that overconfidence would only aid the boys.

Jai retrieved a small snake camera from one of his armor's many compartments while Terre and Rahm stood watch. Jai slid the camera underneath the door and the image was broadcast on his HUD.

There she was. Salem stood near the window, her attention seemingly lost in the sprawling darkness beyond, completely unaware of their presence.

Jai retrieved the camera and nodded towards his brothers. With great care, they opened the door to her throne room. As they entered the room, the Guardians' movements were like whispers in the wind. Salem, however, remained oblivious, her focus on the abyss beyond the window. The boys were still cloaked thanks to the photo reflective panels of their armor, only adding to their silent phantom comparison.

Jai, the silent and lethal assassin of the Bad Batch, took the lead. His blade, a masterful fusion of technology and skill, gleamed in the dim light. With a swift, calculated motion, he approached Salem from behind, aiming for a decisive strike to end her reign of darkness and to avenge the countless souls lost to her evil actions. In an instant, Jai's sword sliced through the air, aiming for Salem's neck.

The room was filled with the faint hum of his weapon, but Salem's posture didn't waver. The blade connected and the witch's head was severed cleanly from her body. As if in slow motion, Salem's head was sent tumbling through the air, and her eyes widened in surprise at what just happened. Her eyes, the very ones that had seen the rise and fall of humanity numerous times over countless eons, picked up the very subtle shimmering outlines of three hulking figures in the shadows of her throne room.

With a noticeable thud, her head landed on the floor of the room with a secondary thud of her body impacting the floor a moment later.

The boys said nothing. They gazed upon the corpse of the ancient witch, the very one they'd trained their entire lives to defeat. They'd won. They'd avenged their brothers and sisters.

Then why, though, did it feel…off?

General Ironwood told them of what he knew from Ozpin. The general had never faced her, but from what Ozpin described she was a force of nature. If that was the case, then why did she go down so easily? It didn't make any sense.

The boys didn't have time to ask questions as Salem's head and body dissolved into a black mist, sending the boys into an even higher state of alert. The mist quickly reformed, taking on the familiar shape of the witch, and Salem turned to face the Guardians with an unsettling calmness.

"Well, well, what do we have here?" Salem's eerily soothing voice echoed through the chamber. She regarded the Guardians with a mix of anger and curiosity. "Intruders in my domain? You've shown remarkable skill to bypass my defenses."

The Guardians, undeterred by Salem's presence, shifted into combat stances and dropped their cloaked appearances. Terre, Jai, and Rahm were the epitome of strength, each a living weapon designed to face the darkest threats Remnant could offer.

Salem examined the three with genuine curiosity. They were massive in height to say the least, though Hazel stood taller than them. Though from the force of the blade that fruitlessly tried to end her life, she could tell that these three were far, far stronger than Hazel if all three of the intruders shared similar strength.

Speaking of which, just what exactly were they? Were they humans? Robots? She wasn't entirely sure but recalled Watts showing her an image taken by the White Fang that illustrated a silhouetted figure that greatly resembled the three armored giants before her.

A wicked smile etched itself onto the witch's ghostly white face.

"I see now," said Salem, "you're the ones the White Fang cower in fear of. Cinder spoke of her fight with one of you. You have many names. Demons, Reapers, Monsters, Harvesters. You are them, correct?"

The boys said nothing. She was trying to bait them into conversation, but they weren't falling for it.

Terre's staff glowed with Dust, ready to unleash its formidable power, while Rahm readied his Partisan, preparing for the inevitable confrontation. Salem raised an eyebrow, her interest piqued.

"Hmm, it seems you three aren't much for conversation. I am curious, though," her calm voice resonated throughout the room, "who sent you? Was it Ozma?"

They remained silent. They wouldn't budge.

"Very well," said Salem.

The ensuing battle unfolded with a dance of blades, elemental Dust fury, and bullets. The Guardians moved with unparalleled grace, their attacks a symphony of lethal precision. Salem retaliated with dark magic, each strike was a testament to her ageless power though she was unable to land any hits.

She made the mistake of assuming that the three weren't fast due to their bulky size. They were far faster than her, having landed numerous powerful blows and deadly strikes that would have ended anyone on Remnant. Their punches and kicks struck with enough force to shatter the witch's bones ten times over, but those bones quickly healed. The strikes landed with their weapons cut her into pieces, but she reformed as good as new.

The boys felt like hamsters on a wheel running and going nowhere. They held nothing back, they came at her with the full intent to kill and yet no matter how much damage they inflicted, she healed from it instantly. They had no issue in avoiding her attacks thanks to their enhanced speed, reflexes, and agility.

The three intruders surprised the Queen of the Grimm with their speed and strength. Hazel was strong but he was slow. Even when he enhanced his abilities with Dust crystals, his speed was still behind this level. These three, however, were entirely different.

They weren't just freakishly strong, but they were equally fast, and their agility was on an inhuman level. Everything about them was abnormal. There was no way they were robots. So what were they?

The Guardians, unyielding and relentless, pushed forward. Their synergy was unmatched, a testament to years of training and camaraderie.

Salem, for the first time, found herself facing adversaries who stood unbroken in the face of her immortality. Normally, people would cower in fear upon seeing her unlimited healing abilities. It was a testament to how pointless it was fighting her. She was unstoppable and yet these three kept attacking her.

Salem smirked.

Hazel did the same thing when she first met him, but eventually, he realized he couldn't win. This would be no different. She had time on her side, and she had unlimited stamina. She would never tire; she would never stop.

As the confrontation dragged on, the Guardians, recognizing the futility of direct combat, shifted their strategy. They exploited Salem's relentless regenerative abilities, drawing her attention away from the battle. Terre, the strategic mind of the trio, gestured to his comrades.

"This isn't working," he said through their private commlink, "we need to find a weakness."

Jai and Rahm nodded in agreement, seamlessly adapting to the change in tactics. As Salem regenerated once more, the Guardians executed a synchronized retreat, weaving through the shadows of the throne room. Salem, infuriated yet intrigued, pursued them with newfound determination. The dance between immortality and unyielding strength continued, each move a step closer to unraveling the secrets of defeating the Queen of Darkness.


The alarm within Watts' lab sounded, alerting the doctor and the two teenagers to the display monitor across the room. A live feed of Salem's throne room was brought on screen, showing the Queen of Darkness engaged in combat against three hulking figures in advanced suits of armor.

Emerald and Mercury ran to the monitor with Watts following after them, leaving behind a sedated Cinder on the operating table.

"What's going on?" Asked Mercury.

Watts observed the live feed for a moment, carefully analyzing the three unknowns as they battled Salem. As if a lightbulb illuminated in the doctor's head, Watts retrieved his scroll and brought up a photo sent to him by Cinder. He held it out for the other two to observe.

Emerald looked horrified while Mercury looked somewhat eager.

"But she…she killed it," said Emerald who looked back towards Cinder's unconscious body.

Watts' eyes narrowed.

"Taurus mentioned there was more than one," replied the doctor, "and it's very possible she didn't kill it."

Mercury nodded.

"We don't have time to waste then," said the son of the infamous assassin, "let's go."

A hand on Mercury's shoulder clamped down before the boy could go anywhere.

"Where do you think you're going?" Asked Watts.

"To help her," replied Mercury with a look of confusion.

"Absolutely not," replied Watts. "You two are staying here. If just one of those things was enough to bring Cinder to her knees, then fighting three of them is an even more ludicrous death wish. Salem can take care of herself. She's unstoppable."

Mercury rolled his eyes.

"What are we supposed to do here?" Asked the impatient boy.

"We're going to seal ourselves in and do as Salem instructed. I'm going to keep Cinder alive and you two are going to protect us."

Emerald was quick to hop onto the plan while Mercury looked a bit reluctant. The fighter within him wanted to face off against new opponents, but at the same time, the rational side of him was telling him he would be walking into a slaughter.

Watts typed in a few commands and the heavily reinforced security doors sealed the lab shut, denying anyone from getting in or out. The doctor returned to his work, but he would occasionally steal glances at the monitor and watch as the battle raged on.


Vale the Next Morning:

The hazy morning draped Vale in a shroud of contemplation, and within the solitude of her home, Professor Glynda Goodwitch navigated the corridors. The room echoed with the silent weight of responsibility, the creaking of the floorboards mirroring the uncertainties she grappled with. Glynda, now at the helm of Beacon Academy, had recently bid farewell to James.

The echoes of their complicated past lingered in the air. More than a decade had passed since their engagement crumbled, the love they shared buried beneath the rubble of hurt and misunderstandings. The pain of their parting hung in the air like a heavy mist. It had been a difficult farewell, the wounds of the past still fresh. Standing by the window, Glynda stared into the night, a canvas of stars above her.

The few rays of the sun's light cast shadows on her face, each line a testament to a history etched in both joy and heartache. Leading Beacon Academy in the absence of Ozpin would be a formidable task. The shattered relics of the institution, the ominous threat of darkness – all these added to the already substantial burden she carried. Despite the separation from James, the remnants of their love lingered, complicating the emotions she grappled with.

As she paced through her elegantly furnished home, Glynda replayed the reel of memories – the laughter, the shared dreams, and the moment James broke off their engagement. The pain in both their eyes, the years of distance – it all coalesced into a symphony of bittersweet recollections.

Suddenly, a wave of nausea washed over her, a sensation that cut through the layers of her thoughts. Clutching her stomach, Glynda felt the cool tiles beneath her bare feet offer a stark contrast to the warmth of her fevered contemplations. A thought crossed her mind – perhaps it was something she ate. She moved towards the bathroom, the subdued glow of the morning sun filtering through the window casting a soft glow.

Leaning over the sink, Glynda took a deep breath, attempting to steady herself. The reflection in the mirror showed a woman whose features mirrored the complexity of her emotions – determination intertwined with vulnerability. The nausea passed, leaving her feeling drained and oddly fragile.

Unbeknownst to Glynda, a subtle change had taken root within her, a silent secret yet to reveal itself. The complexity of her emotions, the stress of leadership, and the unexpected physical discomfort hinted at a truth waiting to be unveiled. In the quiet of her home, Glynda Goodwitch stood at the precipice of change. The echoes of her past mingled with the uncertainties of the future. Little did she know that a new chapter was beginning, one that would intertwine her fate with James Ironwood in ways she could not yet fathom.


Location Unknown:

The throne room, bathed in an eerie glow, witnessed a relentless ballet between the three Guardians and Salem, the ancient embodiment of darkness. They'd been fighting for twelve hours straight, and the stalemate remained strong. Neither side showed the slightest hint of slowing down. Salem was kept going by her unlimited stamina and regeneration thanks to her immortality, and the boys were powered by their beyond-human physiologies and indomitable wills.

This was the ultimate clash: the unstoppable force against the immovable objects.

Dust-infused strikes, explosive bursts, and sounds of gunfire created a cacophony that resonated through the room, each clash a testament to the clash of titans.

Jai, the stealthy swordsman, blurred through the shadows like a phantom. His sword moved with precision, seeking openings in Salem's defenses. The metallic song of his blade echoed a complex rhythm that unfolded with every calculated move. Salem's movements, graceful and haunting, countered Jai's every strike with an enigmatic dance.

Terre, the tactical strategist, wielded his three-sectioned staff with a mastery that seemed almost otherworldly. Each section moved in harmony with the other, guided by Terre's strategic brilliance. Dust-infused strikes painted arcs of elemental energy through the air, a mesmerizing display of combat choreography.

Rahm, the medic and explosives expert armed with his Partisan rocket launcher, unleashed calculated strikes of rocket-propelled grenades whose explosions reverberated throughout the throne room. The very air crackled with the concussive force of his attacks. Salem, though immovable, felt the shockwaves disrupting her dark magic.

As the Guardians pressed on, Salem's frustration became palpable. Dark tendrilled hands of magic lashed out, seeking to entangle and disorient her adversaries. Jai, recognizing the shifting patterns, adapted with blindingly fast footwork that confounded Salem's perception.

Terre's staff became a conduit of Dust-infused mastery. Elemental bursts erupted with each strike, creating a dazzling display of colors that clashed with Salem's dark magic. The throne room became an ethereal canvas, painted with the volatile clash of opposing forces.

Rahm's rocket launcher, a deadly instrument of destruction, became a focal point. Salem, attempting to manipulate shadow arms for protection, found her defenses shattered by a precise explosion. Rahm, his calculated approach unyielding, pressed the advantage with relentless determination. The medic of Special Mission Unit 117 thought to himself amid the battle.

This isn't working. So far, she hasn't displayed a discernible weakness. She possesses incredible regeneration abilities, which means no matter what we do to her she just comes back.

Salem's frustration transformed into calculated anger. She combined physical prowess with magic, creating illusions that disoriented the Guardians. Shadows twisted and contorted, forming mirages that tested the Guardians' resilience. Yet, their unyielding determination remained steadfast. In a moment of reprieve, Salem sought to exploit the Guardians' degraded perception of reality. Shadows coiled around them, threatening to sap their strength. However, Jai, Terre, and Rahm, fortified by indomitable will, resisted the encroaching darkness and broke free.

Each super soldier found strength in unity, a bond that transcended the physical and magical onslaught. The throne room bore witness to an epic clash. Salem, realizing the resilience of her adversaries, intensified her efforts. The Guardians, their every movement a testament to their training and unity, faced the immortal queen with unyielding resolve. The dance of combat continued, each movement etching a tale of warriors defying the inevitable. Salem's attempts to subdue the Guardians grew increasingly desperate, her frustration boiling over as she faced adversaries who refused to succumb to the shadows.

"DIE ALREADY!" She yelled in anger.

Shadows and steel collided, echoing through the throne room as the clash of forces unfolded in a spectacle of unparalleled intensity.


Lots to unpack this chapter. The boys do not know that Salem is truly immortal but they do know that she is nearly impossible to put down and keep down. Pyrrha is dealing with a lot right now and she will have a lot to wrestle with in the future. As for Glynda, well I wonder if any of you can deduce what's going on with her. Until next time.

-Dude64