In the arena of the Royal Castle, Jaune staggered back, each breath a struggle as Vernal's fist slammed into his ribs, the impact so fierce it felt like his bones might crack under the pressure. Pain rippled through his body, but there was no time to recover—Vernal was relentless. She moved like a whirlwind, her body a blur of deadly speed and precision. Before Jaune could regain his balance, her foot swept out in a brutal arc, catching his legs and sending him crashing to the ground with a sickening thud.

"Is this all you've got?" Vernal sneered, standing over him like a lioness toying with her prey. Her one good eye burned with intensity, sharp and unforgiving, while the patch covering her other eye—a permanent scar from her fight against Silver Hunt—made her appear even more dangerous.

Jaune groaned. He couldn't afford to stay down. Giving up wasn't an option, not when General Raven was watching his every move. Arms crossed, her expression unreadable, but her eyes—those cold, calculating eyes—tracked everything with a razor-sharp focus.

"You're strong," Raven's voice rang out, cool and detached. "Especially for someone with your background, but you're also naive," Raven continued, her tone unwavering. "You let two Silver Hunt members escape. You allowed a liability, and that makes you weak. I won't tolerate weakness."

Jaune barely had time to brace himself before Vernal was on him again, her movements swift and merciless. A sharp knee drove into his stomach, knocking the air out of his lungs in a single, brutal motion. He gasped, nearly doubling over, but this time he refused to fall. His legs shook, and every instinct screamed for him to drop to the ground, but he planted his feet, forcing his body to stay upright.

Jaune grimaced as Vernal circled him, her stance low and predatory, a wicked smile curling at her lips. "He's not bad, General. He can take a beating." She cracked her knuckles, the sound like a threat hanging in the air.

She lunged at him, throwing a powerful punch aimed directly at his chest. Jaune threw his arms up to block, but the force of the hit sent him skidding back across the floor. His aura flared brightly at the impact, but it was weakening—he could feel it, the protective shield flickering under the constant barrage of Vernal's attacks.

"C'mon, Arc, don't tell me you're finished already," Vernal taunted, stepping forward with a sadistic grin. "We're just getting started."

Jaune's breathing was labored, his vision hazy as he struggled to focus. His body was screaming for rest, for relief from the agony coursing through his muscles, but he couldn't stop. Not yet. His aura was dangerously low, the familiar hum that once shielded him now reduced to a faint, flickering glow. He was moments away from being completely exposed, vulnerable to Vernal's raw power.

And she knew it.

Vernal's smile widened, a feral gleam in her eye. "You're done, Arc," she growled, closing the distance in a flash. Her next punch came in hard and fast, and this time, Jaune wasn't fast enough. The blow connected squarely with his ribs, shattering his aura in a flash of light. The force of it sent him sprawling to the ground, gasping for breath as pain exploded across his chest. His aura—his last line of defense—was gone.

But Jaune still moved. With a groan of effort, he pushed himself up, his limbs trembling, every muscle in his body screaming in protest. Blood dripped from his lip where he'd bitten down during the fall, and his breath came in ragged gasps, but still, he stood.

"You really don't know when to quit, do you?" Vernal asked, her tone almost impressed despite the mockery lacing her words. She stepped closer, towering over him as Jaune wobbled on his feet. "I've broken your aura, and you're still standing. Either you're stupid, or you've got a death wish."

Jaune wiped the blood from his mouth and met Vernal's gaze, his eyes burning with defiance. "I'm not... done yet."

Vernal's expression faltered for a moment. The sheer stubbornness, the refusal to fall even when every ounce of logic told him to give up—it was reckless, but also something she couldn't help but respect, even if just a little. Most fighters would've crumbled by now, but Jaune was still on his feet, bruised and battered but unyielding.

"Persistent, huh?" Vernal muttered, her grin fading slightly. "I guess I can respect that." Then, with a vicious smirk, she moved again, this time slower, more deliberate, savoring the moment. Her fist swung down toward Jaune's face, a final blow to end the fight—but at the last second, Jaune twisted his body, dodging the hit by a hair's breadth. He threw a wild punch in return, aiming for her midsection. It lacked the strength or precision of Vernal's strikes, but it connected, catching her off-guard and sending her stumbling back a step.

Vernal's eye widened, more in surprise than pain. "You've got some fight left in you after all," she growled, her voice low and dangerous. She rubbed her side where Jaune's punch had landed, and for the first time, her playful demeanor slipped into something more serious. "I like that, i really do"

Jaune stood his ground, even though every fiber of his being wanted to collapse. His body was failing him, the pain unbearable, but he wasn't about to give Vernal the satisfaction of seeing him break. He raised his fists, his stance shaky but determined.

From her spot on the sidelines, Raven watched in silence, her eyes narrowing slightly as she observed Jaune's unwavering resolve. For the first time, there was a glimmer of something in her gaze—approval, perhaps. Or maybe just curiosity.

Ciel, was beside Raven, she watched the scene unfold with an almost detached expression. She didn't flinch at the brutality of the fight, her cold blue eyes assessing Jaune's performance like a machine processing data. Raven glanced at her for a moment.

"I didn't bother punishing you, Ciel, because it would've been a waste of time. You don't respond to physical pain. But I know you fear your father's disappointment," Raven said, her voice as cold as the air around them. "So, let me remind you. If you fail me alot, I'll make sure he knows."

Ciel's jaw tightened slightly, but she didn't respond. Her fear of her father was the only thing that motivated her, and Raven knew it well.

In the arena, Jaune was barely standing. Vernal struck him again, this time with an elbow to his face. Blood trickled from his nose, and his body felt like it was on the verge of collapse.

Vernal, seeing the determination in his eyes, raised an eyebrow and smirked. "You're tougher than I thought," she admitted, stepping back and crossing her arms. "Not many can last this long with me."

Jaune, bruised and battered, managed a weak smile. Every part of him hurt, but hearing that from Vernal… it meant something. "Thanks," he rasped, his voice strained but genuine. "I… appreciate the compliment."

Vernal chuckled darkly. "Don't get cocky. You're still a long way from being a real warrior."

"She's right, Arc. You've got potential, but potential means nothing if you can't survive. You've shown you can take a beating, but what matters is how you get back up. You've got a lot to learn, and you'll learn it under my watch."

Jaune, still hunched over in pain, nodded slowly. He wasn't sure if he could move much, but the fight had taught him something important. He wasn't there yet, but this tough treatment was exactly what he needed to grow stronger. He'd take the pain, the humiliation, and use it to fuel his determination.

As Jaune staggered to his feet, the heavy doors to the arena opened, and Cardin, Ren, and Pyrrha stepped in. Pyrrha's eyes immediately locked onto Jaune, her face etched with concern. She rushed over to him, placing a gentle hand on his arm as she inspected his injuries.

"Jaune, what happened to you?" She asked, her voice filled with worry.

Jaune managed a weak smile, brushing off her concern. "It's nothing. Just a little… training," he said between labored breaths. "Ciel and I let two members of Silver Hunt get away. We failed, so… the punishment was kind of expected."

Pyrrha frowned deeply, clearly unhappy with the situation. She shot a sharp glance at Vernal, who stood nearby, arms crossed and watching with a satisfied smirk. "This wasn't necessary," Pyrrha said firmly. "There's no reason for this kind of brutality. You've pushed him too far."

Vernal scoffed, unimpressed by Pyrrha's words. "He can handle it. Jaune's tougher than you give him credit for," she said, her voice laced with contempt. "Your mentality's weak, Pyrrha. Coddling him like this won't help him get stronger. If he wants to survive out there, he needs to take the hits, learn from them."

Before the tension between the two could escalate, Cardin and Ren approached Raven, who remained at the edge of the arena.

"We've completed our investigation of Dr. Merlot's mansion," Cardin began, his tone formal. "There's no sign of him. No indication of where he could've gone, either."

Ren nodded in agreement. "His laboratory was fully intact. Nothing seemed to be missing or taken in a hurry. It's as if he planned to return at some point. But… his Faunus servants and mechanical Grimm were nowhere to be found. There's a chance he went to confront Silver Hunt himself."

Raven leaned back slightly, crossing her arms as she mulled over the report. "So, Merlot thought he could take on Silver Hunt alone…" she mused, her voice low. "That man was always arrogant, believing his intelligence made him invincible. His ego was his downfall."

She moved toward the center of the arena. "Merlot was smart, I'll give him that. His creations, his modifications—they made him dangerous. But none of that matters if you're too blinded by your own hubris to see your limits." She glanced down at Jaune, who was still standing but clearly struggling. "Merlot's intelligence made him powerful, but his ego turned him into a weakling. And weaklings always pay the price."

Cardin crossed his arms, his brow furrowed. "So, you think Merlot's dead?"

Raven shrugged. "Most likely. If he did go after Silver Hunt by himself, he probably thought he could wipe them out single-handedly. He underestimated them and got himself killed. It wouldn't be the first time someone's arrogance led them to their own demise."

As the conversation continued, Pyrrha gently helped Jaune sit down, her eyes full of frustration and sympathy. "This isn't right," she muttered under her breath, though she knew there was little she could do to change Raven's or Vernal's minds.

Jaune, still catching his breath, gave her a small smile, wincing as he did. "I'll be fine," he said quietly. "This… it's part of getting stronger. I need to be ready for whatever's next."

Pyrrha didn't look convinced, but she didn't argue.

(…)

In the dimly lit basement of the Silver Hunt base, the atmosphere was heavy with the sound of dripping water and the cold echo of footsteps on the stone floor. Trifa sat in one of the cells, her one remaining arm resting limply at her side. Her other arm, the robotic one, had been removed—no doubt as a precaution. She stared blankly at the floor, lost in thought, when the clank of heavy boots brought her attention to the figure standing just outside her cell.

Winter Schnee, positioned herself within view but kept her distance. There was a cold, calculating look in her eyes, but her tone was measured as she spoke. "Normally, we would've killed you to avoid any loose ends, but Blake… Blake begged us to spare your life."

Trifa scoffed, bitterness dripping from her voice. "Of course she did. That's just like her. Pretending to care about something, only to throw it away like garbage when it no longer suits her." She shifted slightly, her expression hard, as though the mere mention of Blake brought up painful memories.

Winter's eyes narrowed, but she kept her composure. "You're wrong about her. Blake isn't like that, at least not with Silver Hunt. She's been nothing but loyal to the cause." Winter stepped a little closer, arms crossed. "But this isn't about Blake. This is about you, Trifa. I'm offering you something… a way out."

Trifa raised an eyebrow, skeptical. "A way out? You mean a way to kill me?"

Winter shook her head. "No. A real chance. We know Merlot altered your body. We don't have the expertise to maintain those modifications properly, but we do have someone who can help you. Penny Polendina, one of our new allies, isn't human. She has advanced knowledge thanks to her father's research. She can help with the upkeep of your cybernetic parts, including the arm we took from you, to ensure you aren't left vulnerable."

Trifa remained silent, her gaze fixed on Winter. The offer seemed too good to be true. But Winter wasn't finished yet.

"More than that," Winter continued, "Silver Hunt won't treat you as just another tool. We'll offer you respect, a purpose, and even payment. It's more than Merlot ever gave you, isn't it? You won't be disposable here." She paused, letting the weight of her words sink in. "You have two choices, Trifa. You can join us, be part of something bigger than yourself, or you can die. We can't let you leave here until you agree, and there are no third options."

Trifa frowned, her mind racing. Winter's words were direct, and the idea of death loomed over her like a heavy shadow. Merlot had indeed treated her like nothing more than an experiment, a means to an end. If she stayed with Silver Hunt, at least there was a chance of survival. A chance to reclaim some part of herself. But the thought of working alongside Blake made her stomach churn.

After a moment of tense silence, Trifa finally spoke, her voice low and laced with uncertainty. "I'll accept your offer… but on one condition. I refuse to work with Blake. I'll never forgive her."

Winter studied her for a moment, then nodded. "Fair enough. You'll be kept separate from her. But understand this: Silver Hunt is a team, and if we're going to win, you'll need to find a way to set aside your personal grievances. For now, your terms are acceptable."

Trifa leaned back against the cold wall of her cell, a bitter smile crossing her lips. She didn't trust Winter, and she certainly didn't trust Blake, but at least she had a sliver of control over her fate.

(…)

Raven, Nora, and Ren moved through the quiet streets of the capital, their footsteps echoing softly on the pavement. With no pressing missions at the moment, they had been assigned to routine patrols, keeping an eye on the city. Raven led the way with her usual commanding presence, while Nora and Ren flanked her on either side, each lost in their own thoughts.

Ciel had stayed behind to tend to Jaune's injuries, part of the punishment Raven had imposed on her for her failure. Vernal was off training with Cardin, while Pyrrha had been tasked with writing the formal report on Dr. Merlot's presumed death. It was a report that would soon be delivered to the High Council, who were unlikely to be pleased with the outcome, but there was little that could be done about that.

As they walked, Raven glanced over her shoulder at Nora and Ren. "I'm surprised you didn't have anything to say about how I handled Jaune's punishment," she remarked.

Nora smirked. "That's nothing. Jauney can take way more than that. I haven't known him long, but that guy's got serious determination. He'll be fine."

Ren nodded in agreement, his voice calm but thoughtful. "I've seen worse punishments in the military. While I'm not a fan of brutality, I understand the reasoning behind it. Sometimes, there's value in harsh discipline."

They continued their patrol in silence until they passed a small park. In the center stood a fountain, its waters shimmering under the soft glow of streetlights. As they neared it, Raven's pace slowed, and she stared at the fountain with a look that caught both Nora and Ren by surprise. Her usual stoic expression shifted, softening into something more… nostalgic.

Ren noticed first. "Is something wrong, General?"

Raven let out a quiet, almost wistful chuckle. "No. I used to come here… with an old lover."

Nora, always curious, perked up. "Wait, are you talking about Yang's dad?" she asked, her eyes wide with interest.

Raven gave a small, almost reluctant smile, nodding. "Yeah, him. Strong, but stupid. Naive, really. Almost like Jaune, come to think of it."

Nora laughed, though there was a genuine fondness in her voice. "I mean, that's not wrong."

Raven smirked, her humor dark as ever. "Give Jaune a few years under my command, and I'll probably devour him just the same," she said with a smirk. "But no one's quite reached his level since then… not really."

Nora and Ren exchanged surprised glances. It wasn't often that Raven Branwen spoke about her personal life, let alone something as vulnerable as a past relationship. The brief moment of openness was unexpected, almost humanizing in a way.

As they moved away from the park, Raven's demeanor returned to its usual intensity, and Ren found himself mulling over the moment. He hesitated before speaking. "I'm sorry for asking, General. I didn't mean to intrude."

Raven waved him off. "It's fine. The past is the past."

They continued their patrol, the streets growing quieter as they moved farther from the park. Ren's thoughts lingered on what he had just witnessed. This woman… this cruel, relentless warrior, is the weapon of the High Council. When he had first joined the Ace-Ops, he had expected Raven to be little more than a heartless commander, someone who cared only for results and nothing for the people beneath her. But now… he wasn't so sure.

She seems to have emotions, after all, Ren thought, glancing at Raven as she led the way. Despite her harshness, she seems to genuinely care about the well-being of her subordinates. Even Jaune's brutal punishment seems aimed at making him stronger, not breaking him.

As they walked, a small sense of respect began to grow within Ren. Maybe this job as part of the Ace-Ops will be more interesting than he expected. And perhaps, just maybe, he be able to aim for the goal he has in mind.

(…)

In the main hall of the Silver Hunt base, the air was filled with tension and anticipation. Sun, Ruby, Weiss, Blake, Yang, Sage, Qrow, and Neptune were all gathered together, each standing or seated around the large room. They were waiting for the formal introduction of two new members who had been brought into their ranks. With the chaos caused by Merlot's recent actions, there hadn't been much time to make the introductions properly—until now.

Winter Schnee stood beside Emerald and Penny, her usual composed and stern demeanor in place as she prepared to address the group. "Due to everything that's happened with Merlot, we haven't had the opportunity to formally introduce our new recruits," Winter began, her eyes scanning the room. "But now, let me present Penny and Emerald as the newest members of Silver Hunt."

Penny, ever full of energy, stepped forward with a wide smile, her enthusiasm contagious. "Hi, everyone! I'm Penny Polendina, and I'm so excited to be part of your team! I'm sure we're going to do great things together!"

Weiss couldn't help but smile at Penny's exuberance, while Ruby gave a small wave.

Winter, standing tall and authoritative as always, continued the introductions. "Penny is unique among us. She is, in fact, a robot," Winter said, her voice calm but direct. "However, she possesses aura, something very rare for someone of her kind."

Penny beamed as Winter spoke, her excitement palpable. "Yep! My father, Pietro Polendina, made sure I could have aura. I'm just like any of you!" she said with pride, clearly eager to prove herself.

Next to Penny, Emerald stood with her arms crossed, looking a little less enthusiastic than her companion but nonetheless serious. Winter gestured to her. "Emerald Sustrai is also joining us. She's a skilled fighter, but her Semblance makes her particularly suited for more... discreet missions or assassinations."

At this, Emerald stepped forward, giving a small nod to the group. "My Semblance is illusions," she explained. "I can manipulate what people see and hear, making them think something is happening that's not. It's perfect for confusion, distraction, or setting up ambushes."

Yang raised an eyebrow, clearly intrigued. "Illusions, huh? That could come in handy."

Emerald continued, a little more cautiously now. "But there are limits. I can't affect multiple targets for too long, especially if I'm trying to trick them into seeing something complicated. It drains me fast, and if I push it too far, I could pass out."

Winter nodded, confirming Emerald's explanation. "That's why we must be strategic when using her abilities. Emerald's Semblance is powerful, but it's not without its risks."

Qrow, who had already met both Penny and Emerald when he and Winter brought them from the rebellion base, gave a brief nod of approval. "They'll fit in fine," he said, his voice gravelly but supportive.

Winter took a step back, allowing both Emerald and Penny to be fully accepted into the group. "With Penny's combat skills and Emerald's unique talents, we'll be stronger and more versatile in our missions."

Penny, still smiling brightly, waved at the group. "I'm really looking forward to working with all of you!"

Emerald, more reserved, nodded. "I'll do my part. Just don't expect me to be all sunshine and rainbows like her," she added, glancing at Penny with a faint smirk.

Ruby stepped forward, her warm and welcoming personality shining through. "Don't worry. As Long as you've got our back, we've got yours."

Winter approached the nearby table and picked up a metallic suitcase, walking over to Yang with a firm but calm expression. "This is for you," she said, offering the case to Yang. "Your new prosthetic."

Yang's eyes lit up, the tension in her shoulders visibly easing. She had been waiting for this moment ever since losing her right arm in the fight against Nora. With eager hands, she opened the case, revealing a sleek, high-tech prosthetic arm, clearly designed with care and precision. Penny stepped forward, smiling gently.

"My father made this personally," Penny said, her voice filled with pride. "It's one of the best he's ever created. I'll help you attach it properly."

With Penny's assistance, Yang secured the prosthetic in place. Penny made a few adjustments, ensuring the fit was perfect. "There, all done," Penny said, stepping back.

Yang flexed her new arm, moving it experimentally before throwing a few punches into the air. She could feel the difference instantly. A grin spread across her face. "This is awesome," Yang said, feeling a renewed sense of strength and confidence. "I guess I'm back in action."

Winter nodded, satisfied. "If anything goes wrong with it, Penny will help with the maintenance. You're in good hands."

Penny beamed at that, happy to be of service. "Yep! I'm an expert with these kinds of things, so just let me know if you need anything."

As Yang continued to test her new arm, Winter's voice took on a more serious tone. "There's another matter to discuss. Trifa, our prisoner, has accepted my offer to join Silver Hunt."

Blake's eyes widened, a mix of relief and joy washing over her face. "She accepted?" Blake asked, her voice full of hope.

Winter nodded. "Yes. We won't have to execute her."

A few murmurs passed through the group. While some seemed unsure, Yang, Ruby, and Sun were quick to offer Trifa the benefit of the doubt.

"We'll give her a chance," Ruby said, her optimism shining through. "If she's willing to work with us, that's good enough for me."

Sun added, "Yeah, we don't need any more enemies right now. If she can help us, I'm cool with it."

Blake, still visibly relieved, spoke up. "Trifa doesn't have any love or loyalty to Atlas. I don't think she'll betray us. She has no reason to."

However, Winter's expression darkened slightly as she continued. "There is one condition. Trifa specifically requested not to have any work with you, Blake."

The relief on Blake's face faltered, replaced by a somber look. She lowered her eyes, sadness evident. "I understand," she said quietly. "I can't blame her. I... I owe you all an explanation."

Blake took a deep breath before speaking. "I abandoned Trifa during a job. Things went south. I escaped, leaving her behind to deal with the fallout on her own. It's one of the biggest mistakes I've ever made."

There was a heavy silence in the room as everyone processed her words. Ruby placed a comforting hand on Blake's shoulder, offering her silent support.

Yang, however, spoke up, her tone blunt but understanding. "Honestly, Blake... I get it. If I were Trifa, I don't think I'd forgive you either. Not for something like that. Especially since i think she was your..."

Blake's eyes flickered with pain, but she nodded, acknowledging what Yang was implying. "Yeah. She was my partner. In More ways than one."

Sun, leaning against a nearby wall, crossed his arms and shook his head. "That wasn't cool, Blake. But it sounds like you're owning up to it. That's something."

Blake gave a small nod, her expression filled with guilt. "I just hope I can make things right one day... even if she never forgives me."

Winter cleared her throat, bringing the conversation back to focus. "In any case, Trifa is now part of Silver Hunt. That makes twelve of us in total."

Qrow, who had been quietly observing from the side, added, "The rebellion forces made it clear to me and Winter: we're not getting any more reinforcements. They can't afford to spare anyone else."

Winter crossed her arms, her gaze serious. "That's right. We're on our own from here on out. So, do everything in your power not to die. We can't afford to lose anyone."

(…)

A village sat nestled in the shadow of towering mountains, its simple wooden houses and dirt roads conveying a quiet life far removed from the chaos of the capital. The sun had barely begun to set, casting a warm, orange glow over the settlement, when the first scream pierced the evening air.

From the forest surrounding the village, red-eyed monsters began to emerge. The Grimms were unlike any the villagers had seen before—hulking beasts with gleaming metallic appendages, their bodies streaked with crimson. Some resembled Beowolves, others were larger, more grotesque amalgamations of Grimm and machine. Their red coloration glowed ominously as they tore through the village, their claws slicing through wood, flesh, and bone alike with terrifying ease.

Children ran, clutching onto their parents, but there was no escaping the slaughter. The Grimms moved with a brutal efficiency, sweeping through the streets and homes, killing every living thing in their path. One of the monstrous creatures—a twisted, cybernetic Ursa—roared as it smashed its way into a home, its metal claws rending the walls to shreds before dragging the screaming inhabitants out, crushing them one by one underfoot.

Amidst the carnage, a woman stood atop one of the surviving rooftops, her figure silhouetted against the blood-red sky. She was athletic and graceful, her movements lithe as she casually observed the massacre below, arms folded across her chest. Her expression was one of amusement, her lips curling into a wicked smile as she watched the Grimms perform their brutal work.

"Merlot's little toys are proving to be quite useful," she mused aloud, her voice soft but filled with satisfaction.

The woman stepped lightly along the roof's edge, watching with a detached fascination as a Death Stalker—its tail tipped with a glistening mechanical stinger—sliced through a group of fleeing villagers, impaling them one by one. The screams echoed through the valley, blending with the low hum of the Grimms' mechanical components as they moved in unison.

"What a pity my dear teacher had to die," she continued, shaking her head slightly, though the amusement never left her voice. "But, oh well... his death left me with such delightful toys to play with." Her eyes scanned the chaos below, the carnage unfolding like a macabre performance for her enjoyment.

She crouched down on the edge of the roof, resting her chin in her hand as the Grimms continued their systematic extermination. Flames began to rise from the houses, the stench of burning wood and blood filling the air. The woman watched as the village elder attempted to make a final stand. He wielded an old rifle, his hands trembling, but before he could even pull the trigger, a red-armored Beringel slammed its metal fist into him, sending his body flying across the village square.

"Such a shame…" she whispered, though there was no true sorrow in her voice. "I could have used someone with that kind of spirit." She shrugged, standing back up and brushing some dust from her pants as though the massacre below was nothing more than a trivial inconvenience.

The Grimms had nearly finished their task, the last of the screams dying out as the village was consumed by death and destruction. The streets, once filled with the sounds of life, were now eerily quiet save for the occasional mechanical whirr of the Grimms moving through the wreckage. Smoke curled into the sky from the smoldering ruins, and the air was thick with the coppery scent of blood.

The woman surveyed the destruction with a critical eye, nodding to herself. "People in Atlas speak so much of Silver Hunt... and these new Ace-Ops they've created to deal with them." Her voice took on a mocking tone at the mention of the elite units. "But with the technology Merlot left behind... I think I'll be able to measure both groups' strengths quite well."

She smirked, her gaze lingering on a pile of bodies at the village's center. "After all, I have plans that need adjusting... and what better way to test them than with a few field experiments?"

With one last glance at the now-silent village, the woman turned and leapt gracefully from the roof, landing on the ground without a sound. The Grimms, their task complete, followed her lead as she disappeared into the forest, leaving nothing behind but death and ashes.

(…)

A room was bathed in the soft glow of a chandelier as Raven Branwen sat at the long, polished table with the members of the High Council. The tea before her steamed quietly, though none of them seemed particularly focused on the drink. Raven's piercing eyes shifted between the three figures across from her, each of them wrapped in their own brand of power and ambition. She wore her signature black uniform—fitted and severe, its military cut accentuating her commanding presence.

Carl Winchester stood out among them all. His wild red beard and ornate robes in deep reds and purples, adorned with unsettling symbols, gave him the air of some twisted cult leader rather than a politician. His bald head gleamed under the chandelier's light, and the medallion around his neck—the grotesque symbol of his house—seemed to pulsate with sinister energy. He exuded dark influence, the kind that seeped into every corner of Atlas' highest echelons. His smile was unnerving, more a predator's grin than anything human.

Beside him sat Camilla, young and beautiful, her dark skin contrasting sharply against the pristine white and gold of the council room. Though outwardly calm and composed, her eyes held the same calculating sharpness as the others. And then there was Sleet, older and dressed in military garb, the sharp lines of his uniform matching his no-nonsense demeanor.

Carl broke the silence first. "Merlot's dead," he began, swirling his tea absently. "A lunatic, yes, but his technology was... useful. A shame, really."

Sleet nodded in agreement, though his expression remained unreadable. "His work was valuable to Atlas."

"Still, we have good news " Carl said with a sadistic smile, "our young king is coming into his own. Whitley is nearing puberty—soon, he'll be more susceptible to certain... pleasures of life." His tone turned darker, a twisted sense of glee behind his words. "We can begin introducing him to the finer indulgences. Sex, alcohol, drugs—let him drown in them. A king should know the joys of excess."

Raven arched a brow, her lips curving into a sarcastic smirk. "Not a bad method to keep him pliable. Turn him into the perfect little puppet." Her voice dripped with disdain, though her eyes showed a spark of amusement.

Carl let out a low, almost gleeful chuckle. "Oh, but a king should enjoy himself. Life has so much to offer."

Raven's smirk deepened. "Lucky him, to have the three of you looking out for his well-being," she said dryly, eyeing the council members with thinly veiled contempt.

Camilla took a sip of her tea, her gaze flicking toward Raven. "On to more pressing matters—the Grimms. We've received reports of a new type. Red. Two villages have been wiped out, and isolated attacks are creeping closer to the capital. These aren't ordinary Grimms."

Raven's eyes narrowed. She had heard whispers of these strange new creatures. "The Ace-Ops will deal with them," she said simply.

Camilla, ever the opportunist, leaned forward slightly. "I have a request. Capture a few of these new Grimms alive. They could be valuable for study. Their mutations might lead to new insights."

Raven considered her for a moment, then nodded. "I've received similar reports. I was already interested in testing myself against them. I'll capture some alive... but I want a bonus for the trouble. For myself and my team."

Sleet, who had been silent until now, scoffed slightly. "You've always had a habit of spoiling your subordinates."

Raven didn't flinch at the accusation. "The strong deserve the rewards life has to offer," she replied coolly. "If they're strong, they deserve security. And if they know that strength is rewarded, they'll stay strong to keep it. It's why my soldiers remain motivated—I reward those who prove themselves."

Carl leaned back in his chair, chuckling darkly. "Coming from someone who's known for torturing and utterly destroying her opponents, it's hard to imagine you have a soft side."

Raven's gaze turned icy, but there was a flicker of amusement behind her eyes. "Cruelty is reserved for my enemies " she said flatly. "For those under my command... strength is all that matters. You'd be surprised how far that goes."

The room fell silent for a moment, the tension simmering under the surface as Raven's words lingered. It was a game of power, one they all played in their own way, and in that moment, Raven Branwen was proving that she knew it better than most.

(…)

In the tranquil garden of the Silver Hunt base, Trifa sat on a stone bench, her eyes fixed on Penny as the robotic girl worked on reattaching her mechanical arm. Penny moved with careful precision, her cheerful demeanor contrasting with the cold reality of the modifications Merlot had inflicted on Trifa's body.

"I took the liberty of giving it some maintenance," Penny said with a bright smile, securing the final connection. "You should find the range of motion a little smoother now."

Trifa flexed her mechanical fingers, testing them. The soft whirr of machinery was familiar, and for the first time in a long while, it felt like it was her own again. "Thank you," she said, her voice low but genuine. "I'll rely on you for more than just this. My body… it's not just my arm. Merlot replaced some of my organs. I'll need help with maintenance on those too."

Penny nodded eagerly. "I can help with that! Just let me know if anything feels off. I'm an expert in mechanical systems," she said, her optimism unwavering.

Ruby stood nearby, leaning casually against a tree but watching them both with a warm smile. "You're in good hands with Penny," she said, trying to ease the tension. "And… I hope you're starting to feel welcome here, Trifa. I know it's a big change."

Trifa glanced at Ruby, then back at her newly repaired arm. "I think I made the right choice" she admitted after a pause. "I'm already being treated better than I ever was under Merlot's command."

Before Ruby could respond, the sound of hurried footsteps approached. Weiss emerged from the doorway, her expression urgent. She crossed the garden quickly, her usually composed demeanor tinged with tension.

"Ruby, Penny," Weiss called out as she neared. "Silver Hunt has just received an emergency mission."

Ruby straightened immediately, concern flashing across her face. "What happened?"

Weiss stopped in front of them, catching her breath. "There have been reports of strange Grimm—red ones attacking villages far from the capital. It's been escalating, and the attacks are getting closer. The rebellion has requested our help to deal with the threat. Normally, we'd leave this to the military and the Ace-Ops, but too many innocent people are dying. We've decided to accept the mission."

Ruby's eyes widened, and she shared a glance with Penny, who looked equally alarmed. "We can't let that continue," Ruby said, her voice firm. "Innocent people shouldn't have to suffer while we wait around. I'm in."

Penny nodded enthusiastically. "Me too! We have to stop these Grimm before they reach the capital."

Weiss's gaze softened slightly, reassured by their determination. "Good. We'll need everyone ready as soon as possible. The reports are getting worse by the hour."

Trifa, still seated on the bench, observed the exchange quietly but with growing interest. It seemed that Silver Hunt, unlike Merlot's cruel and chaotic operations, was truly driven by a desire to protect the people.

(…)

A caravan was stranded on a rocky road, nestled between distant, snow-capped mountains, far away from the bustling capital of Atlas. Merchants were frantically huddling together, their wagons overturned, goods scattered as monstrous red Grimms with jagged metallic enhancements attacked relentlessly. Their glowing crimson eyes shone with malevolence, while the metallic appendages added a dangerous precision to their assaults.

Cardin Winchester swung his massive mace with brute force, smashing one of the red Grimm into a bloody heap of black smoke. "Keep your distance!" he shouted to the merchants, his voice commanding as always. Pyrrha was close behind him, her spear piercing through another creature. Her shield deflected an attack from an incoming beast, and with a swift strike, she decapitated the Grimm.

"You're safe now," Pyrrha reassured the merchants, her voice calm and composed, even as her armor gleamed under the fading sun. "We've got this under control."

Meanwhile, Nora was in her element, cackling with unhinged joy as she shattered the skull of a Grimm with Magnhild, her hammer swinging wildly through the air. "Monsters like you don't belong here!" she bellowed, laughing as the shattered remains of another Grimm faded into smoke. "It's so satisfying to squash you like bugs!" Her voice dripped with zeal, almost gleeful as she tore through their ranks. To her, the massacre of these beasts was just another chance to enjoy the thrill of battle and justice.

A few miles away, deeper into the woods, Ren was quiet and efficient, his knives whirling with precision as he eliminated two red Ursas. Their robotic modifications made them sturdier, but they were no match for Ren's calm and methodical strikes. He watched the remains dissipate into ash, a soft sigh escaping his lips as he kept his eyes focused on the surroundings.

Not far from him, Raven moved like a shadow, slicing through three of the red Grimms with calculated precision. Her sword, as sharp as her wit, cut through limbs and left them squirming on the ground, immobilized but alive. She observed the incapacitated creatures with interest before wiping the blood from her blade, as Camilla had requested some of them alive for study.

Ren approached her, wiping the sweat from his brow. "General, these Grimms... they seem far too advanced" he said thoughtfully. "This has Merlot's signature all over."

Raven tilted her head slightly, her expression unreadable for a moment. She glanced down at the writhing Grimms beneath her boots. "You're sharp, Ren. It's painfully obvious, isn't it? That mad doctor's touch lingers in every grotesque inch of these creatures."

Ren nodded. "It would make sense. His experiments with Grimms were well-documented. His mansion was full of notes and prototypes, though we found little concrete evidence. I assume he had a hidden laboratory—one we didn't uncover. These Grimms could have escaped from there somehow."

Raven's eyes flickered with intrigue. She had always known Ren was intelligent, but his deduction skills were particularly sharp. "You're right," she said after a pause. "The timing is suspicious. These Grimms showed up right after Merlot disappeared. Still, I doubt he's alive. He was too much of a coward to set these things loose, knowing the wrath it would bring him. No," she mused, "someone else is behind this. Someone taking advantage of his death and repurposing his 'toys.'"

Ren's brow furrowed in thought. "Could it be Silver Hunt?" he asked cautiously.

Raven smirked, her confidence almost unsettling. "I doubt it," she replied. "They're assassins, sure, but even they have a twisted sense of morality. They wouldn't release monsters like this. No, this is someone else. But we'll find out who."

Ren nodded, impressed by her insight. He had underestimated her perceptiveness, perhaps blinded by her cruelty. "I'll keep investigating. There's more to uncover here, I'm sure of it."

Raven gave him a rare approving glance. "I'm counting on you. It's good to know I've got at least one sharp mind on my team." She sheathed her sword, turning back to the immobile Grimms. "These things won't capture themselves. Let's finish up and get back."

The cold wind rustled through the trees, carrying the distant echoes of their battle as they prepared to take the Grimm specimens back. The snow-dusted ground was stained black from the remnants of the red Grimms, a haunting reminder that something far more sinister was lurking just beyond their reach.

(…)

The night was eerily quiet, save for the soft murmur of the river nearby and the occasional growl of distant Grimm. Ruby's silver eyes glinted in the moonlight as she swung Crescent Rose, her scythe cleaving through the air with precision. The red-enhanced Grimm fell one by one under her blade and Sun's swift strikes. His staff spun in his hands, releasing bursts of light as he pummeled the creatures with practiced ease. Both of them moved in perfect sync, knowing that clearing out the area was crucial to the mission.

As the last Grimm collapsed, its blackened body dissolving into the earth, Sun took a deep breath and relaxed his stance. "Well, that's the last of them for now," he said, his voice light, though the tension in his muscles remained. The night still felt too still.

Ruby nodded, her silver gaze scanning the shadows around them. "We'd better keep moving," she said. "No telling when more might—"

Her words were cut short when, out of nowhere, a blur of motion struck Sun in the side. The blow sent him staggering back, nearly knocking him into the river. Ruby's eyes widened in shock as a figure stepped into the moonlight, her gaze sharp and predatory.

"Miss me, monkey boy?" Vernal's voice was a low, mocking growl. She stepped forward, the dim light revealing the eyepatch covering her right eye—a bitter reminder of their last encounter.

Sun's face hardened as he straightened, the memory of their past fight flashing through his mind. "Vernal."

She smirked, her arms folded across her chest, her fingers twitching as if itching for a fight. "Didn't expect to see you here. Guess I got lucky tonight after all." Her voice oozed malice, and there was a wild gleam in her eye. "I didn't like the idea of Grimm-cleaning duty in the night, but look who I found instead." She pointed to her eye patch. "I owe you for this."

Ruby quickly moved to Sun's side, Crescent Rose ready. "Stay back," she warned, her voice steady.

Vernal's eye shifted to Ruby, and she let out a dark chuckle. "Oh, little red hood is with you. How cute. But this isn't your fight, sweetheart." Her voice was laced with venom as she cracked her knuckles. "I'm here for him."

"Like hell you are!" Ruby snapped, her grip tightening on her scythe.

Sun gritted his teeth, his hands gripping his staff. "Ruby, be careful. She's not just tough—she's a tank. She won't slow down until her Aura breaks."

"That's right," Vernal sneered. "And I'm not leaving until I've finished what we started. You took my eye, monkey boy, and I'm here to return the favor."

Without warning, Vernal lunged at Sun, moving with brutal speed. Her fist crashed toward him, but Sun managed to twist out of the way, his staff snapping upward to block her next strike. The impact echoed through the night as the two clashed, but Vernal's strength was overwhelming. She pressed forward with raw, physical power, her blows relentless.

Ruby didn't hesitate, darting in from the side, her scythe slicing through the air as she aimed for Vernal's midsection. The blade came dangerously close, but Vernal twisted, avoiding the strike at the last second. She backhanded Ruby with a force that sent her skidding back several feet.

"Is that all you've got?" Vernal taunted, her single eye gleaming with amusement. "I thought you were supposed to be a prodigy or something like that."

Ruby dashed forward again, her Semblance activating in a flurry of red petals. She moved faster now, her scythe spinning in blinding arcs as she launched a barrage of attacks. Each strike was precise, aiming for Vernal's weak points, but Vernal's Aura absorbed the hits with frightening resilience.

Sun, seizing the opportunity, flanked Vernal from the opposite side. His Semblance activated, creating multiple glowing clones of himself that swarmed around her, each attacking in unison. Vernal was momentarily surrounded, fists and staff striking from all sides. For a second, it seemed like they had her pinned.

But Vernal let out a roar of rage, her Aura surging as she grabbed one of Sun's clones by the arm and flung it into another. The clones dissipated in flashes of light, and she turned on Sun with a vicious punch aimed at his chest. He barely managed to block with his staff, but the force sent him stumbling back, pain shooting through his arms.

"Not so tough now, are you?" Vernal growled, advancing on him. She was relentless. With every step, every punch, it was clear she wouldn't stop until one of them was down.

Ruby rushed forward again, her silver eyes flashing as she activated her Semblance once more, her speed increasing to the point where she was a blur. She struck at Vernal with everything she had—slashes of Crescent Rose aimed at her legs, her sides, her back. But Vernal was a fighter built for endurance, and her Aura held firm.

In a desperate move, Ruby swung her scythe low, aiming to sweep Vernal's legs out from under her. This time, it connected, knocking Vernal off balance just long enough for Sun to leap into the fray. He struck her with a fierce blow from his staff, sending a blast of energy through the weapon that reverberated through Vernal's body.

But even as she stumbled, Vernal was already recovering, her rage growing. "You think this is enough to stop me?" Before they could do anything else, a deep, guttural roar echoed through the forest. The trees shook as massive, red-tinged Beringels emerged from the darkness, their monstrous forms towering over the battlefield. The Grimm were drawn to the chaos, their glowing eyes locked onto the three fighters.

Ruby's heart raced as the Beringels charged. "Grimm!" she shouted, readying her scythe.

But before either of them could react, Vernal let out a furious scream, her Aura flaring brighter than ever. "No!" she roared, her voice filled with unbridled rage. "You won't take him from me!"

With a ferocity that left Ruby and Sun stunned, Vernal threw herself at the Grimm, her fists slamming into the nearest Beringel with such force that its skull caved in. She was a whirlwind of violence, her brutal strikes tearing through the Grimm like they were nothing. The red Beringels were strong, but Vernal was stronger, her raw power obliterating them one by one.

Ruby watched, wide-eyed, as Vernal tore through the Grimm, her movements savage and unrelenting. "She's... unstoppable," Ruby whispered, amazed by the sheer strength Vernal displayed.

But as the last Beringel fell, Vernal turned back to Sun and Ruby. "He's mine," she hissed, her voice dripping with possessive rage. "No one else gets to kill him."

The air was thick with tension, Vernal's sharp senses honing in on a presence nearby. Her brow furrowed, and her voice rang out, filled with challenge and fury.

"If you're another loser from Silver Hunt, show yourself now!" She shouted, her tone dripping with menace. "I'll kill all three of you together!"

Ruby and Sun froze. They exchanged a brief glance, surprised by the sudden shift in the atmosphere, but neither of them felt any other presence nearby. They knew none of their allies were in this area. Whoever Vernal was sensing, it wasn't one of theirs.

Then, from the shadows, a figure emerged. The night seemed to pull away as she stepped forward, each of her steps measured and deliberate. Cloaked in a long, dark coat, the figure moved with a deadly grace, her presence unsettling in the quiet darkness. She paused just on the edge of the moonlight, and with a slow, almost mocking gesture, she pulled back her hood.

The moonlight revealed a young woman with long, fiery orange hair cascading down her back. Her athletic build was striking, her lean muscles visible even beneath her dark, form-fitting attire. She had the look of someone built for speed and power—ruthless efficiency. A sadistic smile curled at her lips, her eyes gleaming with a twisted excitement.

"Still the beast you've always been," the woman said, her voice dripping with dark amusement. "You even have the instincts of one. I'll give you that, Vernal."

Sun's gaze hardened when he saw the woman's face. There was something about her, something unsettling, but that cruel smile and predatory look… whoever she was, she clearly wasn't here by chance.

Vernal's eye burned with recognition. "You bitch," she spat, venom in her voice. "So, you're the one behind all of this." Her fists clenched as she took a threatening step forward. "Finally came crawling back, huh? What happened? Couldn't survive without Daddy's protection anymore?"

The woman's eyes flashed with anger, her smile faltering just for a moment. But then, her expression shifted back to one of cold amusement, as if Vernal's words had barely stung.

"I'd be careful with that mouth of yours, Vernal," the woman said softly, her tone taking on a dangerous edge. "After hearing so many rumors about Silver Hunt and the Ace-Ops, I couldn't help but get curious."

She began to circle slowly, her eyes flicking between Sun, Ruby, and Vernal, as if evaluating them all, measuring their worth. "I used Merlot's little toys to analyze both your teams," she continued, a twisted grin forming on her lips. "And it didn't take long to figure out you'd all end up in the same mess."

Ruby's heart pounded as the woman's piercing gaze lingered on her. There was something predatory about the way she moved, her confidence radiating like a dangerous, coiled snake ready to strike. Ruby's grip on Crescent Rose tightened. Whoever this was, she was no ordinary enemy.

The woman's smile widened. "I've been waiting for the perfect chance to test myself against both of you. Ace-Ops. Silver Hunt. It's all the same to me." She paused, her eyes narrowing on Vernal. "But… maybe you're too much for me, for now."

She reached into her pocket, pulling out a small device. Her thumb hovered over a button, and without warning, she pressed it with a soft, ominous click.

The water of the river suddenly rippled, as if disturbed by something massive beneath the surface. Then, from the depths, a monstrous shape began to rise. The ground trembled as a towering King Taijitsu, its crimson scales gleaming in the moonlight, emerged from the river. Its serpent-like form twisted and coiled, and its glowing red eyes locked onto Vernal with terrifying intensity.

Before anyone could react, the massive Grimm lashed out with its tail. With a thunderous crack, it slammed into Vernal, sending her crashing through the air. She flew backward, hitting the ground hard with a sickening thud.

Ruby's breath caught in her throat as the colossal Grimm roared, turning its attention to the downed Ace-Op. Vernal barely had time to rise to her feet before the King Taijitsu lunged again, its enormous maw snapping dangerously close to her.

But Ruby and Sun remained frozen, their attention locked on the orange-haired woman who stood calmly before them, watching with that same sadistic smirk plastered across her face. Sun's heart was pounding, but it wasn't concern for Vernal that fueled his adrenaline. He could still remember the sight of Scarlet falling at Vernal's hands. No, he wanted her dead just as much as this woman probably did.

The woman's smile widened as she watched the chaos unfold. "Don't worry about her," she said mockingly, flicking a glance at the massive Grimm battling Vernal. "I'm sure she'll manage… or not."

Sun growled under his breath, his grip on his staff tightening. Ruby remained silent but tense, her eyes sharp and alert as she tried to gauge what would happen next.

The woman's gaze flicked back to them, and she tilted her head slightly, her smile never fading. "Now," she said, her voice soft but filled with deadly intent, "let's see how you two handle yourselves."

The woman made the first move.

She shot forward with terrifying speed, her eyes locked on Sun. He barely managed to raise his staff in time to block her punch, but the force of her strike sent a shockwave down his arms, pushing him back several feet. His feet dug into the ground, struggling to maintain balance as the impact rattled him. Ruby immediately leaped into action, swinging Crescent Rose in a wide arc toward the woman's midsection.

The mysterious woman moved like water. She bent backward, just beneath the blade, her body flowing out of the path of the scythe with a dancer's grace. As Ruby continued her assault, spinning the scythe in rapid succession, the woman twisted and sidestepped each strike. The sharp, deadly edge of Crescent Rose sliced through the air with a whistle, but the woman's reflexes were frightening. She swayed side to side, her feet moving in perfect sync with Ruby's attacks, each evasion a hair's breadth away from disaster.

"Too predictable," the woman sneered, her eyes gleaming with amusement.

Ruby gritted her teeth, trying to increase her speed. She slashed horizontally, Crescent Rose cutting through the air like lightning, but the woman leaned back, avoiding the attack by the thinnest of margins. Before Ruby could recover, the woman stepped in close, twisting her body as she brought her elbow down toward Ruby's head. Ruby barely managed to duck in time, feeling the rush of air as the strike passed inches above her.

Sun saw his opening and lunged. With a roar, he spun his staff, aiming low at the woman's legs in an attempt to trip her. The woman, without even looking, leaped into the air, twisting her body gracefully as she flipped over the staff. Her landing was so fluid it was almost like she floated back to the ground. She grinned, her eyes dancing with amusement as she immediately spun around to face Sun.

"Trying to be clever, are we?" she mocked.

Sun growled and, with a flick of his wrist, created three clones of himself, each one attacking from a different angle. One from the left, one from the right, and one from above. The woman's grin widened. In a blur of motion, she danced between them, dodging each strike as if she had seen it all before. The clone to her left swung its staff toward her ribs, but she pivoted, letting the blow slide past her. The second clone went for a high kick, but she ducked beneath it with a smirk, and the third clone tried to bring down a crushing strike from above. The woman sidestepped at the last possible second, making the clone's attack hit nothing but dirt.

With a swift motion, she kicked the second clone in the chest, watching with satisfaction as it exploded into light. She turned to the real Sun, her eyes cold and calculating.

"Cheap tricks won't save you," she said, her voice dripping with disdain.

Sun's frustration was evident as he charged again, his staff spinning in his hands. This time, he aimed for her head with a powerful overhead swing. The woman ducked low, sliding beneath the attack before thrusting her palm upward, catching the staff mid-swing and stopping it dead. Her grip was ironclad, and for a brief moment, Sun struggled to pull his weapon free. But the woman was faster. She twisted the staff out of his hands and flung it aside with a flick of her wrist, sending it spinning into the distance.

Ruby seized the opportunity. She activated her Semblance, Petal Burst, and shot forward, appearing behind the woman in a blur of rose petals. She swung Crescent Rose with all her might, the blade aimed to cleave through the woman's side.

But again, the woman moved before the attack could land. She twisted her body at the last second, bringing up her arm to catch the shaft of the scythe. Ruby's eyes widened in shock as the woman blocked the attack with her bare hands, her Aura flaring around her.

"Nice try," she whispered, her tone mocking.

With a surge of strength, the woman shoved Ruby back, sending her stumbling. Ruby tried to recover, but the woman was relentless. She stepped forward, driving her knee toward Ruby's midsection with terrifying speed. Ruby barely managed to bring up Crescent Rose to block, the shaft of her weapon absorbing the blow, but the force sent her skidding across the ground.

"You're fast, but not fast enough," the woman taunted, a twisted grin on her face. She turned her attention back to Sun, who had recovered his staff and was charging her again, this time aiming a low sweep toward her knees.

The woman jumped, spinning through the air as she narrowly avoided the attack. As she landed, she delivered a sharp kick to Sun's side, sending him crashing to the ground with a grunt. She stood over him, her eyes gleaming with amusement.

"What's wrong? I thought you were supposed to be skilled fighters," she said, her voice cold and mocking.

Sun groaned in pain as he pushed himself up. "She's predicting our moves... how is that possible?" he muttered under his breath.

Ruby, panting, regrouped beside him. "I don't know, but she's dodging everything we throw at her. We need to figure this out, and fast."

Together, they launched another attack, coordinating their movements. Ruby swung her scythe in a downward slash while Sun aimed a powerful thrust toward the woman's midsection. But it was as if she could read their every thought. She stepped backward, letting the scythe pass just inches in front of her, then twisted to avoid Sun's thrust. Her body moved with an effortless precision, her reflexes far too sharp to be normal.

With a smirk, she leaped into the air, flipping over Ruby's head and landing behind them both. She swept her leg out in a powerful arc, aiming to knock them off balance. Ruby managed to jump back just in time, but Sun took the hit, stumbling backward.

Before they could regroup for another attack, a deafening roar echoed through the air. Ruby's gaze shot toward the river, where she saw Vernal delivering a final, brutal strike to the King Taijitu, its massive body thrashing as it dissolved into nothing.

The woman's grin faded slightly as she glanced at Vernal.

"Well, looks like playtime is over." She looked back at Ruby and Sun, her eyes gleaming with a cruel satisfaction.

"As Vernal didn't die, she'll probably report my presence, so i won't be able to hide my return anymore," she said with a sigh. "Oh well, it was fun messing with you two for a bit." Her smile returned, sharp and dangerous. "Next time... it'll be even more fun."

With that, she turned and sprinted into the shadows, disappearing into the night as quickly as she had appeared.

Ruby and Sun didn't waste a moment. They knew Vernal would come after them soon, and neither of them was in any condition to face her.

"Let's get out of here," Ruby whispered.

Some problems have arisen that I must solve so I don't think I will publish next week, sorry about that.

Review:

Nashwhitewolf: I'm not going to lie to you, I'm still not sure what decisions I will make regarding that, although I can say that there will be several deaths, I just hope it ends up being acceptable, thanks for your review