Ozpin's Bedtime Stories and Zaegar's Plan: Yhwach's Title?

Yhwach found himself occupied the next day, with students seeking his guidance after his impactful speech from the previous day had circulated through the school. The influx didn't bother him; in fact, he welcomed the opportunity to assist. Some students, however, required a gentler touch, prompting him to seek Glynda's assistance, which she didn't mind in the slightest.

The day passed swiftly in this manner, much faster than the previous one. But before it concluded, Yhwach and Zaegar caught wind of something concerning from a group of students who had struck a deal with Yhwach days earlier—something about investigating Torchwick.

As the final class wrapped up and their remaining tasks were completed, the Quincy king made his way toward team RWBY's dormitory. Just outside their door, poised to knock, Zaegar halted him, sensing a conversation unfolding inside. Zaegar motioned for silence and leaned closer to eavesdrop.

Ruby: -So, we're all set. Weiss and I will head to the C.C.T. tower, while Blake and Sun will attend the White Fang meeting. Yang and Neptune will pursue Yang's contact.

Zaegar absorbed Ruby's words, followed by a chorus of agreement from within the room. He heard footsteps approaching the door, prompting Yhwach to discreetly retreat into a nearby hallway, evading the six students as they departed for the docking area, bound for Vale.

Zaegar: (Mental Link) Ruby and Weiss should manage just fine. The C.C.T. tower seems straightforward. But Blake and Sun...heading to a White Fang meeting is risky.

Yhwach pondered Zaegar's analysis, his mind already considering the potential threats.

Ginjo: (Within Yhwach's mind) Indeed, Zaegar. Blake and Sun are walking into potential danger. The White Fang is not to be underestimated, especially if they're attending one of their meetings. Let's hope they can handle themselves.

Yhwach: (Mental Link) Yang appears capable, but Blake and Sun's mission adds an extra layer of danger. The others should navigate their tasks without issue. I'll keep a watchful eye on Blake and Sun.

Decision made, Yhwach and Zaegar trailed after them discreetly.

There was only one problem once Yhwach had made it to the docking area, undetected of course, how was Zaegar going to follow them once they were on a bullhead? Zaegar's new draconian form isn't exactly the stealthiest of things, especially in a world where dragons didn't exist.

He would have to improvise as they boarded a bullhead. Yhwach waited until its door shut and he quickly sprinted to the flying machine and jumped to the roof of it, landing as quietly as he could. The second Zaegar's body landed on the machine, his stomach began to twist and churn. Zaegar fell over onto his back as the sky above began to spin, he let out a groan as the machine began to fly into the sky.

Zaegar: (Mental Link) Fucking Bad idea.....bad idea Yhwach.

The Hollow told Yhwach over the roar of the bullhead's engines and the howling wind.

Ginjo: (Laughing within Yhwach's mind) Ha! Looks like Zaegar's draconian form isn't built for smooth airborne travel. How many times is this now, Yhwach?

Yhwach: (Mental Link) A few times now, or so. But he always manages to endure it somehow. Let's hope he doesn't make too much of a scene up there. We don't want to draw unnecessary attention to ourselves.

After what felt like forever to the incapacitated tiny dragon, the bullhead came to a stop as it arrived in Vale. As the machine touched the ground, Zaegar forced himself up and off the roof of the machine as Yhwach's students offloaded from the bullhead. The Hollow thanked every part of his existence as he touched the solid ground before Yhwach quickly picked Zaegar up and began to follow the group of six. They walked together for a long while before they finally split up in the middle of town.

Yhwach had climbed a building and was now looking down at them from a vantage point. As they split up, the tiny dragon's gut churned for a very different reason than it did earlier.

Zaegar: I have a bad feeling about this little mission.

He said out loud as he and Yhwach watched Blake and Sun begin their track to some warehouse, where the meeting was going down. Zaegar quickly shook off his feelings and began to follow them, scurrying from building to building until Yhwach ran out of the roof and was forced to drop down to an alleyway across from their destination.

Yhwach watched as they were, quietly, ushered to a warehouse with two White Fang masks in hand. Zaegar's face scrunched into confusion before a flyer on the alley wall beside him drew his attention. The flyer was subtle and plain, but to someone like Zaegar, the smell of faunus hands was all over it. Yhwach ripped the flyer off the wall and turned it over, the back of the flyer had the White Fang symbol with a vague address and a few words on it describing the meeting as a recruitment rally that was completely anonymous.

Zaegar: (Mental Link) That explains the masks, lucky for them. I doubt I could do the same though.

He told Ginjo and Yhwach, raising his tiny dragon hand to Yhwach's hair.

Zaegar: (Mental Link) You're far too recognizable...plan B then.

Yhwach: (Mental Link) Agreed, Zaegar. We need to maintain our cover while ensuring Blake and Sun remain safe. Let's see what unfolds inside that warehouse before we decide on our next move.

Ginjo: (Within Yhwach's mind) Right. We'll need to be cautious and ready to act if things take a turn for the worse. Keep your senses sharp, Yhwach.

Zaegar held his head high as he sniffed the air. The breeze from the sea just a few blocks in front of him filled his nose with the smell of seawater and mostly fish. But he also managed to sniff out some different animal-like smells that weren't coming from the warehouse Black and Sun had gone inside. Zaegar concentrated and silenced the world as he focused on the buildings in front of him. The sound of machinery faded away and he heard the arming of guns high in the air. Yhwach scanned the area and found three White Fang members hiding in the cargo cranes that littered the area where construction was taking place and in them lookouts armed with sniper rifles.

A smile tugged at his lips before he ran across the street quickly, avoiding detection and running right up to one of the cranes. He scurried up the crane, moving in between its large metal frame in a fashion that kept him hidden. Once at the spot where the White Fang had hidden he quickly used his strength to flip himself into the armed faunus, knocking him out instantly and quietly. 

He didn't spend much time in the vantage point though as he ran along the inside of the crane's long arm, straight towards another one of the lookouts. Once at the end of the crane, he jumped out, allowing himself to be seen all too late by both of the remaining lookouts. The faunus he jumped towards didn't even have time to raise his gun as Yhwach kicked him in the jaw, breaking off his mask and knocking him out. Yhwach wasted no time as he quickly turned and threw out his arm in one movement. A Heilig Pfeil appeared and he fired it at the other lookout, shocking him and rendering him unconscious in one swoop.

Zaegar let out a sigh of frustration as he rejoined Yhwach, his tiny dragon form perched on the rooftop.

Zaegar: (Mental Link) Can't we just show ourselves and carpet bomb the city? It'd be much simpler.

Yhwach: (Mental Link) No, Zaegar. That would cause far too much collateral damage and attract unwanted attention.

Ginjo: (Within Yhwach's mind) Yeah, we can't go around causing chaos like that.

Zaegar paused for a moment, a mischievous glint in his draconian eyes.

Zaegar: (Mental Link) But what if... we did it with a twist?

Ginjo: (Within Yhwach's mind, intrigued) Oh? What kind of twist are you thinking about, Zaegar?

Zaegar's grin widened to an unimaginable level, reminiscent of the god's statue in "Solo Leveling."

( Picture )

Zaegar: (Mental Link) Picture this... instead of regular bombs, we carpet bomb the entire planet with dildos and crazy stuff!

Yhwach: (Mental Link, shocked) Zaegar, that's absurd! We can't possibly consider—

Ginjo: (Within Yhwach's mind, entertained) Hold on a second Let him cook... That's... actually kind of genius in a deranged way. Go on, Zaegar, I'm curious now.

Zaegar continued, his voice filled with an air of diabolical excitement as he detailed the most outrageous, ludicrous, and downright insane plan involving a global bombardment of absurd objects.

Yhwach and Ginjo listened in a mixture of disbelief and amusement, shocked at Zaegar's suggestions but unable to deny the sheer audacity of his imagination. As Zaegar outlined his plan with a maniacal gleam in his eye, Ginjo couldn't help but shake his head in disbelief at the madness unfolding within Yhwach's mind.

Yhwach listened to Zaegar's outrageous plan with a mix of disbelief and concern.

Yhwach: (Mental Link) Zaegar, that's... beyond insane. We can't even entertain the thought of such a reckless act.

Zaegar let out a chilly laugh, his eyes glinting with mischief.

Zaegar: (Mental Link) Aw, come on, Yhwach. It would've been epic!

Ginjo: (Within Yhwach's mind, amused) Thanks for shutting that down, Yhwach. Zaegar's idea was madness to an unimaginable level.

Yhwach nodded silently, acknowledging Ginjo's gratitude, before making his way back to the ground. He landed near the warehouse, the front unguarded to better keep it hidden. On the right side of the warehouse, a scaffold stood leading to the roof. A perfect way to eavesdrop.

Yhwach quickly jumped from level to level on the scaffold until he made it to the roof. The sound of cheering filled his ears as he grew closer. An in-construction glass window in the roof is what was emitting all the noise. Yhwach crouched next to it, peering inside. A large crowd of faunus kind filled the warehouse floor, a large makeshift stage stood in front of them. The Quincy King's eyes widened as he saw who stood before the crowd, Roman Torchwick bowler hat, and a massive White Fang banner that stood tall behind him. A low growl emitted from Zaegar's throat as Yhwach tried to listen in on what he was telling the crowd, but their cheers overpowered the crook from the distance Yhwach was at and he couldn't risk getting closer and being spotted. Another growl of annoyance came from Zaegar's throat as Yhwach was forced to simply watch the spectacle.

Having a look around the crowd, he spotted Blake and Sun without much difficulty. That worried him. If he could find them that easily from this distance, the crook could too. Suddenly a hush went over Zaegar's ears and they could finally hear Torchwick for a moment.

Roman: -The Atlesian Paladin!

Zaegar's eyes widened as he turned back to the stage to find the banner had opened and revealed a fully developed version of the robotic behemoth of a machine that he and Yhwach had only seen in a hologram just a few short days ago. 

Zaegar: (Mental Link) Where did he get that shit from?! The Atlas military was just announcing them a few days ago, I didn't even think they were a real thing yet!

Zaegar's thought as Sun had a very similar thought.

Yhwach's expression darkened as he listened to Zaegar's thoughts and observed the unfolding events. His eyes narrowed with intensity, his mind calculating the implications of Torchwick's possession of such advanced military technology.

Yhwach: (Mental Link) It seems Torchwick has acquired more resources than we anticipated. The Atlesian Paladin's presence here is concerning, to say the least.

Yhwach's concern only grew as he noticed Roman looking towards Blake and Sun before the crook moved to a White Fang guard close to him and began to whisper something to him. He had found them out. Yhwach stood up about to jump in when the lights inside the warehouse shut off, leaving it dark in the building. Zaegar and Yhwach could only assume Blake had come up with the idea and Zaegar smiled at the thought. The sound of screams filled Zaegar's ears and then the sound of glass shattering and the sound of robotic wiring as the paladin came to life. Yhwach looked off the side of the warehouse to find Blake and Sun running down the street. The paladin busted out of the warehouse's wall.

Zaegar's grin widened devilishly as he caught sight of the pilot, Torchwick.

Zaegar: Oh, this is gonna be a blast.

Yhwach cocked his head slightly, the faint sound of his neck popping audible. Without hesitation, he moved to join them, his expression unreadable.

It wasn't hard to follow either, especially with Sun screaming for help. Yhwach jumped onto a building and ran alongside the paladin before he heard the sound of a motorcycle. He looked back to see Yang and the boy he assumed was named Neptune coming out from around a corner and coming after them. Blake and Sun jumped onto a highway with Roman coming after them.

Yhwach continued just below them on the rooftops before he launched himself onto the highway, running faster than most of the cars that were driving around him. Yang and Neptune were just ahead of him.

Yhwach: Yang!

Yhwach's voice cut through the chaos as he dashed up beside them. Yang glanced over in surprise at her teacher's sudden appearance.

Yang: Professor?! How the-

Zaegar: Big fucking robot first, super speed later!

Zaegar ordered from Yhwach's shoulder.

Zaegar: You with the ugly gun! We need to slow that shitty thing down or else people are gonna get hurt!

Zaegar shouted at the boy. He nodded and readied his weapon.

Inside the paladin, a warning sensory went off. Roman turned to see what it was before he let out a huff of annoyance and then piloted the paladin into a bunch of cars in front of him.

Yhwach: Yang look out!

Yhwach yelled as the cars began to fall towards them. Yang quickly whipped her bike around, dodging the cars as they came down around her and Neptune.

Yhwach however had a very different way of avoiding the falling vehicles. He jumped forward and ran along the roof of one that was flying straight for him before he launched himself to the next car in the air. He bounced along the falling cars in a blur of speed before he landed on the last one in the air and then jumped onto another highway above him, still running close to Roman. Neptune had managed to hit him with a couple of blasts from his gun and was now hanging from his weapon trident form which was stabbed into the machine's back. Sun tried to save his teammate from flying off by using his semblance, creating two golden clones of himself and sending them after him. They hit the paladin and exploded upon contact, not really slowing down the machine in the slightest. Sun launched himself into the air trying to hit Torchwick but the crook just twisted the paladin's upper half and sent Neptune flying into them, sending them off somewhere out of the fight.

Zaegar growled as he watched the machine chase Blake. Yhwach jumped down to the same highway that they were on and rocketed towards them, passing Yang and her bike easily. Up ahead, Weiss had made it to the fight and had iced over part of the highway. The paladin's momentum sent it sliding onto the slipper surface and Yhwach used this chance to launch himself into the machine's back shoulder first. The force behind his shoulder charge sent Roman flying across the highway and down to the large unused area below, where Ruby was waiting for him.

The fall did little to the paladin, but Yhwach's shoulder had put a massive dent into its back. The rest of team RWBY landed next to their leader as the paladin stood up. A very displeased look on Roman's face.

Ruby: Get ready.

Ruby told her team, they all silently nodded to their leader as they assumed combat stances. Roman let out a growl as he charged forward with the paladin. Ruby quickly began to call out an attack name.

Ruby: Freezer bur-

It was interrupted as Yhwach landed in front of the paladin and stopped it from swinging its metal fist at his students.

Ruby: Huh? Professor?!

Ruby questioned confused. Roman let out an angry sneer as he pushed the control for the paladin's arm down. The hydraulics in the arm's powerful motor began to hum as the force increased behind it, but Yhwach didn't even seem bothered by the increase in strength as he held the robot's fist with his right hand. The Quincy king turned his head to look at the team.

Yhwach: I explicitly instructed you to inform me if you were planning something like this.

Roman: Hey! Don't ignore me!

Roman called out to Yhwach as he pushed down the controls even more. Yhwach didn't budge but the concrete under him began to crack under the pressure.

Yhwach: I'm in the middle of a conversation with my students. I'll attend to you shortly.

Yhwach told the pilot of the paladin calmly, not bothering to turn to him. Roman let out a yell of annoyance and pulled back from Yhwach's grasp before trying to swing the other arm. Yhwach simply moved his left arm and stopped the other hand, twisting and crushing the metal under where his hand's grip fell. He turned back to the crook with a displeased look on his face.

Yhwach: Very well. Their mistakes will be addressed in due time.

Yhwach's grip tightened and he pulled on the paladin's arm.

Roman's face widened as the metal arm of his paladin was ripped from its socket, leaving behind broken wires that were dancing with electric sparks. His shock was short-lived as Yhwach used the arm to knock him flying backward into one of the concrete pillars holding up the highway. Yhwach tossed the arm aside before he began to walk forward.

Yhwach: I have a feeling I will be enjoying this more than you will, Roman Torchwick.

Roman brought the paladin to its feet before he pressed one of the many buttons in the cockpit of the paladin.

The back of the paladin opened up in slots and missiles came flying out from the slots.

Yhwach shot forward into a run, dodging the first missile by jumping into the air and allowing it to explode where he was standing. The other missiles came flying for him and he threw out his hand, catching one of them and then throwing it back at another missile while still in the air. The explosion created a cloud of smoke that the other missiles came flying through.

Yhwach: Burner Finger 1 

He fired an intense beam of fire at the missiles, moving his head to the side to allow the beam to destroy each other missiles coming for him. Roman quickly moved the paladin to the side as the beam cut across the concrete in an arc, knowing full well what that attack could do as it seared through the ground effortlessly. The paladin's shoulder-mounted guns turned and began to fire at Yhwach, who had just landed back on the ground.

A grin found itself on Zaegar's face as Yhwach darted to the side, the bullets trailing behind him as he ran around the paladin. With a jump he ran across the wall of a nearby building before he jumped again, Zaegar's tiny hands beginning to glow. as Zaegar swiped his tiny claws hand across the gun and tore through it like its paper. then Yhwach swung his foot into the back of the machine cockpit and sent it stumbling forward while he began to spin in the air.

Not bothering to waste a moment, Yhwach fired another Burner Finger 1 at the machine's backside creating an explosion that sent it flying into the concrete ground and then some. Yhwach landed.

The paladin began to rise once more, its pilot almost screaming in anger and annoyance. He pushed the controls forward but found that he was firmly planted where he rose. The paladin's legs were frozen to the concrete. Ruby and Weiss stood a distance away with their weapons raised, Weiss had used her semblance to make Ruby's sniper rounds freeze the paladin in place.

Blake and Yang came running up the sides of the machine, Roman aiming its remaining arm guns at the two but it was pointless as they easily avoided the bullets. Their lessons with Yhwach taught them to anticipate their enemy's attacks, even gunfire. They got close and Blake jumped into the air while Yang ran up to the paladin. She used her gantlets and her abnormal strength to jump up to the paladin's cockpit and rail on it, cracking the glass of the pilot seat. She quickly jumped off the machine to avoid being hit by more gunfire and landed a distance away.

Yang: Heads up buddy!

She shouted to Roman.

He squinted in confusion before he heard a battle cry from above. He looked up too late as Blake came down with her blade, slicing off the other arm of the paladin easily.

Yhwach withdrew his fist, gathering reishi within it until a blue glow emanated, casting an eerie light around. Roman glanced up, his eyes widening in recognition of the impending threat.

Roman: Oh no.

He threw out his fist as he came at the paladin, the blue light shining over the now-scratched metal of the machine. In a single blow, Yhwach's Reiatsu and brute strength shattered the metal and glass of the machine's upper half, going straight through it and into Roman's face. Yhwach landed on the other side of the machine as its pieces came flying down around him and Roman went flying in front of him before rolling to a stop.

Yhwach straightened himself out as team RWBY came running to his side, two on his right and two on his left. 

Roman began to stand as he groaned.

Roman: This is why-

He let out a huff of annoyance as he stood on his feet and wiped off his suit.

Roman: -I can't have nice things.

He looked over the destruction of his paladin at the hands of Yhwach before he turned to the Quincy king.

Roman: You know how difficult it was to steal this? It wasn't exactly a walk in the park.

Ruby: You shouldn't steal.

Ruby said.

Yang: Surrender. You have nowhere to run this time.

The crook began to chuckle.

Roman: I don't?....please, I've been in worse situations.

He told them as he dusted off his arm.

Roman: That's gonna be a pain to get out.

He muttered to himself.

Yang got fed up with his rambling and then cocked her gauntlet before firing at him. No one was expecting a small girl with pink and brown hair to drop from the sky and use an umbrella of all things to block the dust around.

Roman walked out from behind the girl with a wide smile on his face.

Roman: I'd like to introduce you to my partner, Neopolitan.

The girl gave a cute smile before bowing in a polite, but cocky, manner. 

Roman: She prefers Neo.

Zaegar growled in annoyance but before he could do anything Yang moved forward about to attack. Yhwach grabbed the girl by the back of her shirt, stopping her from blindly attacking. 

Yhwach: Yang, calm down. Charging in recklessly won't serve us well.

Roman: You should listen to him Blondie.

Roman chided Yang. The blonde fighter let out a growl and Yhwach tightened his grip on the girl before she could try to attack. 

Yhwach: Yang...

Yhwach warned her.

Roman: That's enough of that, I'm a busy man and this is taking up a lot of valuable time.....and you know what they say-

Roman adjusted the cuffs of his suit.

Roman: -Time is money. Neo?

The girl curtsied and then reached into her back pocket and tossed a red dust crystal into the air. Yhwach quickly pulled Yang back and put his hand up with blut vene appearing in front of it. Neo swung her umbrella by the top end, using the cane-like handle of the umbrella to break the dust crystal in two and send it flying towards the five of them as it exploded.

Yhwach's Blut vene grew and blocked the explosion as the dust from it came over them. Yhwach pointed his fingertip to the side and fired a burner finger 1 through the cloud, dispersing parts of the dust cloud as the blasts traveled towards Roman and Neo. When the burner finger 1 hit the two, they shattered like glass. Zaegar managed to see this through the cloud and his eyes widened.

A sudden blast of air blew away the dust cloud from the explosion and that made everyone turn to the source of the air, a bullhead. Yhwach looked up at the bullhead to find both Roman and Neo standing inside it, waving from the opened side of it.

Weiss: What just happened? 

Weiss asked as they watched the bullhead fly off, keeping just above the buildings so that Yhwach couldn't use the schrift H the heat to bring them down without creating a massive amount of collateral damage. 

Blake: We were played.

Blake told her. Zaegar growled out in agreement. Yhwach let out a scoff as the bullhead went off into the distance.

Yhwach: Twice... They've slipped away from me, twice... I find it displeasing.

Yhwach turned to the four girls.

Yhwach: Ah, I recall a certain agreement we made regarding your little outings, did we not?

The four girls immediately looked at each other with worry, and then they looked at their leader. 

Ruby: Uhhhhhhhhhh...

Ruby began.

Ruby: Well....we....well....we...didn't ...want to...we wanted to bring you solid evidence. Yeah, we wanted to make sure we actually had real proof of what we found!

Yhwach raised his eyebrow.

Yhwach: Is that so? Then, what exactly have you uncovered?

Ruby's face widened and she began to stutter before looking back to her team.

Ruby: Guys?

Blake: The White Fang is running an operation in the southeast!

Blake informed her professor.

Yhwach: The southeast, you say? Intriguing... Very well, that's a promising start. However, I advise caution in further investigation. Pushing too hard might prompt them to relocate or disperse their activities, rendering our efforts fruitless. For now, let's return to Beacon.

Yhwach told them before walking off, Zaegar perched on his shoulder as usual.

Yang: Wait, that's it?

Yang asked him, slightly underwhelmed.

Yhwach: You've done your research, your investigation is on hold to let things settle, and...

Yhwach looked back to the team.

Yhwach: You're all still in one piece. Let's count that as a victory for today. However, when you next encounter Torchwick and his accomplice, they must be dealt with decisively. Their ability to acquire Atlas equipment so swiftly suggests an insider connection, which we must identify and sever. Patience is key. For now, we return to Beacon and resume your studies.

Yhwach then glanced upwards at the highways above.

Yhwach: ...And I have a feeling I'll need to be explaining that to Ozpin. 

He told them, motioning for them to look up behind them.

A sudden crash caused them to straighten up before slowly turning around. The concrete highway above was crushed in some places and a massive chunk where the paladin had tumbled off had broken off and fallen right behind them. Civilians were lining the highway wall, looking down at the group. 

Yang: Oh.... whoops. 

Yang looked back with a nervous grin.

Zaegar grumbled under his breath before Yhwach turned around and began his journey back to the bullhead docking station, much to Zaegar's dismay.

Scene Break - Beacon, Ozpin's Tower

Ozpin sipped from his mug from behind his desk while Yhwach stood at one of the several windows in the room, staring down at the bustling ground below.

Ozpin: So let me get this straight...

Ozpin started.

Ozpin: ...Team RWBY started an investigation into Roman Torchwick, the notorious criminal whom we failed to apprehend at the beginning of the year, and after you found out about it.....you gave them your permission as well as your support in the matter?

Yhwach said nothing as he was questioned. 

Ozpin: And today Torchwick tried to sell an Atlesian Paladin to the White Fang, but instead he found out that Miss Belladonna and Mr. Wu-kong were at the meeting and used that paladin to chase all of you down a main highway system in Vale, endangering several civilians and destroying part of a main transit...Is that it?

Ozpin finished, placing his cup on his table.

Zaegar: You missed the part where he blew up the top half of the Paladin and a good portion of the docks.

Zaegar corrected. 

Ozpin: Ah yes how could I have forgotten?

Ozpin sighed as he stood from his desk. 

Ozpin: Yhwach, I am surprised that you encouraged their reckless investigation.

Yhwach: There were stipulations to my consent. They were determined to proceed regardless, but under my supervision, there was a modicum of safety that would have been absent otherwise. However, I'm fully aware that there may be repercussions for this, and I'm ready to bear the burden of those consequences.

Yhwach responded, facing Ozpin as the headmaster approached from behind his desk.

Ozpin: You're right. There are consequences to what you have done.

Ozpin said before he leaned over and pressed a button on his computer. Glynda's voice came from the computer's speakers after a few seconds

Glynda: (Voice) Yes Ozpin, do you need something?

Ozpin: Miss Goodwitch, would you please come to my office? It's time we explain some things to our resident menace.

Zaegar's face twisted into confusion as Ozpin spoke.

Glynda: (Voice) P-Professor Ozpin, are you sure?

She asked the Headmaster, probably sprouting the same confused look as Zaegar he was referring to. 

Ozpin: I'm quite sure, he has proven to be capable as well as trustworthy enough to know.

Glynda: (Voice) ...As you wish Professor.

After a few moments, Glynda ended the call and Yhwach turned his gaze towards Ozpin, assessing the situation.

Yhwach: Ozpin, what am I about to find out? If you are firing me, just do it, don't make it a spectacle.

As Yhwach awaited Ozpin's response, Ginjo's voice echoed within his mind with a mixture of concern and amusement.

Ginjo: (Within Yhwach's mind) Looks like you're in for quite the conversation, Yhwach. I wonder what Ozpin has in store for you. Let's hope it's not too severe.

Yhwach acknowledged Ginjo's comment with a silent nod, his expression remaining composed as he braced himself for whatever Ozpin had planned.

Meanwhile, Zaegar, who had been swimming in Ozpin's mug with uncontainable excitement, popped his tiny head out, his eyes shining with anticipation.

Zaegar: Please fire Yhwach, please fire him! This is gonna be the best thing ever!

Zaegar begged in the most enthusiastic tone, barely able to contain his excitement at the prospect of witnessing such a spectacle.

Ozpin only laughed.

Ozpin: Dear Oum no, I just called you trustworthy. No, I'm not going to fire you. Though, in a few minutes, Zaegar may wish I had.

Zaegar and Yhwach raised an eyebrow.

Zaegar: Ozpin what the fuck are you talking about?

The Headmaster let out a sigh before he returned to his seat behind his desk.

Ozpin: Tell me...do you both believe in fairy tales?

Zaegar rolled his eyes, clearly unimpressed with Ozpin's question.

Zaegar: Nope, not really into fairy tales, mate. Just get to the point already.

Inside Yhwach's mind, Ginjo chuckled at the exchange, his voice laced with amusement.

Ginjo: (Within Yhwach's mind) Looks like Ozpin's got a flair for the dramatic. But I doubt he's about to read you a bedtime story, Yhwach.

Yhwach nodded internally, his attention returning to Ozpin.

Yhwach: I believe every tale stems from some form of truth. Why do you ask?

Ozpin: Well, I have quite the story to tell. Please sit.

Yhwach did as he was asked and sat down in the chair across from Ozpin. 

Zaegar: And what about me? Am I just supposed to keep swimming in your mug while you spin tales?

Ozpin chuckled softly, a twinkle of amusement in his eyes.

Ozpin: Oh, Zaegar, you always find a way to make yourself at home, don't you? But fear not, Little Dragon, your time will come. For now, let's focus on the matter at hand.

Zaegar pouted playfully but relented, sinking back into Ozpin's mug with a melodramatic sigh.

Zaegar: Fine, but don't forget about me, bitch!

Ozpin smiled indulgently before turning his attention back to Yhwach, ready to delve into the story he had to share.

Ozpin: Tell me something my friend, have you ever heard about the story of the four maidens?

Yhwach raised an eyebrow.

Yhwach: Four maidens? I can't say I have.

Ozpin leaned forward, resting his elbows on the desk he sat behind. 

Ozpin: I'm not surprised, it's not recorded in any book except for the occasional child's bedtime storybook. Even so, I enjoy it very much. Would you both care to hear it?

Zaegar lifted his tiny dragon head up from Ozpin's mug, his eyes narrowing with skepticism.

Zaegar: Nope, the story might be shit like every single fucking thing in this stupid fucking shitty ass fucking school.

Ozpin raised an eyebrow at Zaegar's colorful language but maintained his composure.

Ozpin: Language, Zaegar. We try to keep a more refined atmosphere here at Beacon.

Zaegar scoffed, his tone dripping with disdain.

Zaegar: Refined my new scaly ass! This place is just a cesspool of fucking incompetence and mediocrity!

Inside Yhwach's mind, Ginjo let out a resigned sigh.

Ginjo: (Within Yhwach's mind) Ah, Zaegar and his way with words. You get used to it after a while, Yhwach.

Yhwach nodded in agreement, his expression unreadable as he listened to the exchange between Ozpin and Zaegar.

Ozpin cleared his throat, undeterred by Zaegar's outburst.

Ozpin: Well, regardless of your opinion, Zaegar, the story of the four maidens holds a special place in the hearts of many. Perhaps it will even surprise you.

Zaegar huffed but remained silent, his attention now focused on Ozpin as the headmaster began to recount the tale of the four maidens.

Ozpin: Very well. This story begins in the middle of nowhere, just off an old and beaten path by a long river. Off this old and beaten path there lived an old hermit, a wizard, who had long since closed himself off from the rest of humanity.

Yhwach chuckled deeply.

Yhwach: A wise decision, indeed.

Ozpin: Perhaps, perhaps not. Regardless of that fact, he lived the majority of his life alone with very few travelers coming near his rugged home. However one day the old hermit noticed a young woman sitting under a tree just outside his home, silently and calmly in tranquility. The old man demanded an answer from the young maiden. She told him, 'My name is Winter, I am on a journey and I am waiting on my two sisters.' With that, she closed her eyes and remained seated under the tree in silence. The old man believed that she was a fool, but the longer she sat the more he wished to share in the serenity the young woman seemed to find herself in. In time he grew tired and he found himself closing his eyes as he fell asleep. Upon opening his eyes, he found another maiden speaking to the first. This one was much more chipper and spry than the first, with a basket of fruit and flowers. When he asked for an explanation she replied the same as to the first, 'My name is Spring, I am on a journey and I am waiting for my sisters.' For the old man's reluctant hospitality, the young maiden plucked a handful of seeds from her basket and planted them in the man's garden.

Yhwach and Zaegar continued to listen in silence at the old "Bedtime Story" but they found that Ozpin's telling of the story seemed to elect more personal telling of the story as if he had been there.

Ozpin: The old man watched in amazement as the maiden turned the pile of dirt he called a garden, into a beautiful masterpiece. He would have continued to watch for hours if he had not heard an unfamiliar laughter coming from under his tree. He once more found another maiden with a warm smile, to which he begged her to introduce herself. She replied the same as the others, 'My name is Summer, I am on a journey and I am waiting for my sister.' The old man thought as much, but another chirp of laughter left the old man confused. What was so funny? As it turned out, it was him. The third maiden found it funny why the old man was insistent on staying inside, why view the world from a small window when the door leading out to it was just by his side. With only a brief moment of hesitation, the old man stepped through the door. The warmth of the sun brought forth a surge of energy and life, and soon the old man wasn't feeling like himself anymore....He was feeling much better. As the day came to an end, the old man and the three maidens sat down to a feast that they prepared. Winter set the table, Spring provided the crops, Summer prepared the meal, and the old man was the happiest he had been in years. In all the excitement, he missed the last maiden, so delicate she was, that had found her way to the table. He beckoned her to join them, asking only for her name. And she told him the same as the three before her, 'My name is Fall and I am on a journey here to meet with my sisters. And who are you?' The old man was caught off guard by the question,' Me?' He wondered,' I am an old man who has been living in these woods alone for many years. I am afraid my story isn't very interesting as I have no one to love and nothing to my name.' He told her sadly.

Ozpin: The eldest sister looked around at all that surrounded them,' But sir don't you see? You have so much.' Much to the old man's surprise, she was right. He had everything he could ever need, all thanks to them. He was grateful but a question found its way to his mind,' But why me? Why have you four decided to open my eyes? What makes me so special, what made you share your gifts with me?' He asked them. The four sisters looked at each other, perplexed. Finally, the maiden named Fall answered, 'Good sir we did not do this because you were special. We do what we can for everyone because we can.' The old man was at a loss, never in his centuries of living had he come across such kindness. It was then that he knew what he needed to do. Drawing out what little power as a wizard he had left, he gave every ounce of magical power he had to the sisters. With a smile, he told them, 'Take this gift and know now that you can do so much more.' Now armed with the power of the elements, the very power of nature, and the magic of the old wizard, the four maidens Winter, Spring, Summer, and Fall promised to continue onward with their journey to help others. Before the four sisters left, they made one last promise.....to return every year to visit their dear friend. And with that, you have the story of the four maidens, the very seasons themselves.

Ozpin told them with a smile.

Yhwach looked over at the headmaster.

Yhwach: And why exactly have you told me this?

Chuckling, Ozpin answered him with his own question.

Ozpin: What if I told you it wasn't a mere story, but a true mark in Remnant's history?

Zaegar's eyes widen.

Zaegar: Are you telling us that the seasons are actual people, that they are these maidens? That this world does have magic?

Behind Yhwach, they heard the elevator ding. Turning to address their new companion, he found Glynda walking towards them. As her presence entered the room, Ozpin stood tall with a smile.

Ozpin: It's time we show you something Yhwach. A well-hidden secret of this school.

With that, he began to walk back towards the elevator with Glynda in tow. Yhwach quickly stood grabbed Zaegar putting him on his shoulder and followed them. Silently, they all began their descent in the elevator. As it drew closer to the bottom Zaegar waited for it to slow as they came to the ground floor, both from assumption and hope as the elevator always did make him motion sick. However, to both his surprise and dismay, the elevator passed the ground floor and continued down.....for a while.

Zaegar: I fucking hate you, you white-haired-

Glynda smacked Zaegar on his tiny head.

Glynda: Zaegar!

Inside Yhwach's mind, Ginjo's voice rang out with concern.

Ginjo: (Within Yhwach's mind) Uh oh, she hit the wrong button.

As the elevator descended further, Zaegar glared at Glynda, his tiny dragon eyes filled with rage.

Zaegar: You fucking bitch!

His words were filled with venom, his anger boiling over as he unleashed a tirade of insults and curses at Glynda.

Glynda's expression remained calm, though she was clearly unimpressed with Zaegar's outburst.

Glynda: Language, Zaegar. And watch your tone.

But Zaegar was beyond reasoning, his fury unabated as he continued to hurl insults at Glynda, his tiny claws trembling with rage.

Zaegar: Fuck you, you worthless cunt! Do you think you can just hit me and get away with it? I'll make you fucking regret ever laying a finger on me, you miserable fucking excuse for a-

Yhwach intervened, reaching out to calm Zaegar with a firm yet gentle hand.

Yhwach: That's enough, Zaegar. Glynda made a mistake, but there's no need for such language.

Zaegar's rage simmered down slightly at Yhwach's intervention, though he still shot Glynda a venomous glare before turning away in a huff.

Zaegar: Whatever, fuck this shit, and fuck you whore.

Glynda remained composed, choosing not to engage further with Zaegar's outburst as the elevator continued its descent.

Ozpin: Do not fret.

He told them as the elevator slowed to a halt.

Ozpin: We're here 

Zaegar's eyes widened as the doors slid open to reveal a dimly light hallway that spanned several meters in length.

Yhwach: What...is this?

Glynda turned to him.

Glynda: It's a vault of sorts.

Glynda glanced at him, but before Yhwach could respond, Zaegar interjected.

Zaegar: A Vault beneath a school? What secrets do you hide down here?

Without looking back, Ozpin answered in a way Zaegar expected...and hated. 

Ozpin: The secret kind.

Zaegar grumbled at the answer but his eyes finally picked up something at the end of the hallway. Finally taking in a deep sniff of the strange air the place had, he picked up something he hadn't smelt since he originally met Ozpin. Magic.

Glynda: Ozpin told you both about the maidens, but did he tell you that the maidens changed?

Glynda asked them.

Yhwach: What do you mean?

Yhwach asked her. 

Ozpin: The maidens, much like the seasons change. When one dies, their power is inherited by another young maiden. Usually whoever was in their last thoughts.

With a grim tone, Ozpin interjected. 

Ozpin: And, as you will see, that power can be...hijacked so to speak. See for the first time in history, part of the maiden's power was stolen.

Yhwach's expression crunched into confusion.

Yhwach: Stolen?

Ozpin waved off his question.

Ozpin: You will see when we get to the device.

Yhwach shifted his eyes to the end of the hallway, which was slowly getting closer, and he made out the device that Ozpin had spoken of.

When they reached the object of the question, Yhwach deeply examined it. It was a set of champers that were connected via a machine in the middle and long tubes that ran up the wall behind them. In the chamber on Yhwach's left a woman, with a nasty scar on her face, laid unconscious. 

Ozpin: Yhwach and Zaegar, may I present Amber....the current Fall Maiden.

Ozpin said in a very dark tone. Zaegar could only understand as he looked the woman over. His ears peered into her heartbeat. It was strained, almost forced. 

Ozpin: That chamber is the only thing keeping her alive, isn't it?

Ozpin sighed as he nodded in confirmation. 

Yhwach: Her heart... it's struggling. I can sense it. I've encountered individuals on the brink of death with stronger vitality than hers.

Yhwach approached the chamber and pressed his palm against the glass, closing his eyes as he concentrated, seeking out her Reiryoku.

Yhwach: The scar. How was it inflicted?

He asked, trying to assess both her spiritual and her physical damage. 

Ozpin: It seems it is the result of whatever process her assaulter used to take her maiden power. As a maiden power is tied directly to her aura and soul, it ripped that from her too.

Ozpin explained.

Yhwach opened his eyes, his expression troubled as he withdrew his hand from the chamber.

Yhwach: Her soul... it's fractured. Half of it appears to be drained or lacking in energy as if it has been siphoned away. This has severely weakened her connection to the Fall Maiden's power.

He turned to face Ozpin, his gaze intense.

Yhwach: Whoever did this sought to not only steal her powers but to cripple her spiritually as well. It's a deliberate attempt to ensure that she can never fully access the abilities she once possessed.

Ozpin nodded grimly, his features reflecting the gravity of the situation.

Zaegar: Alright, I've had it. Explain why you've brought us this sorry sight of a girl. 

Glynda and Ozpin averted their eyes from both Zaegar and Yhwach.

Ozpin: Well you both have proven trustworthy, of great morality...and we are running out of time.

Ozpin told them.

Glynda: We believe that the person who did this to Amber is here, or at least they will be here by the time the Vytal Festival starts.

Glynda told them. Zaegar growled lightly.

Yhwach: Understandable. Do we have any description of this individual?

A disheveled sigh indicated the lack of such information. Zaegar let out a frustrated sigh, his tone dripping with sarcasm.

Zaegar: Oh, fan- fucking-tastic. we don't have a damn clue. That would've been too convenient, wouldn't it? Well, regardless of their fucking shitty appearance, once I catch their scent, they won't be slipping away.

Ozpin's face scrunched into confusion.

Ozpin: Smell them? I understand that you have heightened senses but how will you smell someone that you've never met before?

Zaegar turned to the headmaster with an emotionless look on his face.

Zaegar: I can smell more than a person's scent. You say they stole part of her magic, so I will just smell out magic that seems similar to hers.

The white-haired man's face widened in shock and a few other emotions.

Ozpin: You can smell magic?

Zaegar nodded to the man, a little bit of knowing passing over his eyes as he did. 

Zaegar: It won't be too hard, in a place where magic is rare, finding the person who stole her magic will prove to be little more than an annoyance.

Glynda smiled at Zaegar's words.

Glynda: So you're going to help us then?

Zaegar opened his mouth, ready to deliver a sarcastic remark, but before he could utter a word, Yhwach swiftly hit him on the head with a light but firm tap.

Yhwach: Zaegar.

Zaegar blinked, momentarily taken aback by the unexpected action from Yhwach. He rubbed the spot where Yhwach had tapped him, shooting the Quincy king a look of mild annoyance.

Zaegar: What was that for?

Yhwach simply shook his head in amusement, a small smile tugging at the corners of his lips.

Yhwach: Sometimes, Zaegar, it's best to simply accept the situation and move forward.

Zaegar let out a resigned sigh, realizing that Yhwach had a point. He nodded reluctantly, acknowledging Yhwach's wisdom.

Zaegar: Yup.

Inside Yhwach's mind, Ginjo couldn't help but burst into laughter at the exchange between Yhwach and Zaegar.

Ginjo: (Within Yhwach's mind) Hah, looks like Zaegar got a taste of his own medicine. Who would've thought that little dragon could be put in his place so easily?

Yhwach's lips quirked up into a small smile at Ginjo's amusement, though he maintained his composed demeanor outwardly. He turned to face Ozpin and Glynda, his expression serious once more.

Yhwach: Who else is aware of Miss Amber and her fellow maidens?

Glynda: Not many. The people targeting them obviously, the headmasters of the other schools, a man named Qrow Bradwen....his sister Raven Bradwen, and-

Glynda began to rattle off before she was interrupted by a newcomer.

???: -And me.

The three professors all looked back towards the elevator to find a man in a clean white suit, black hair that was turning grey, and a calm expression on his face that practically dripped with authority. 

Ozpin: James, I almost forgot you were coming.

Ozpin said to the man.

James: I went to your office but no one was there. I can see why now.

The man told them as he looked over Yhwach.

James: So this is him? 

He asked them with a bit of uncertainty in his voice.

Zaegar growled at his statement.

Yhwach: I'd advise caution when looking down on me General Ironwood. I've taken on more than a few armies in my lifetime.

Ironwood's expression shifted to one of surprise.

James: You know my name?

Yhwach: I've familiarized myself with all the current headmasters of the other schools and noteworthy figures in various organizations during my brief research of this world.

Yhwach informed him calmly.

Yhwach: Although I must admit, I didn't anticipate encountering you here, working alongside General Ironwood, Headmaster of Atlas.

Ozpin simply offered a nonchalant shrug.

Ozpin: I was about to surprise you instead of you surprising me.

Yhwach: So....what have you told the General about us?

Ozpin sighed.

Ozpin: Only that you both know magic and of Zaegar's draconian faunus heritage. Anything else you wish to reveal is yours to tell.

James: Is there anything else to you that I need to know?

Ironwood inquired, directing his question at the Quincy king.

Yhwach: Nothing that pertains to your concerns. My trust lies with Glynda and Ozpin, not with you. If not for my acquaintance with Ozpin, I would have remained wary of you.

Yhwach's words caught Ironwood off guard, his expression registering surprise. Glynda and Ozpin shared a similar reaction.

Yhwach: However, if I am to be included in your inner circle, Ozpin... I will endeavor to extend that trust to this man.

Ozpin: Perhaps we should take this conversation back to my office.

Ozpin suggested to the group. 

Glynda: That's a good idea headmaster.

Glynda told Ozpin and she walked to Yhwach.

Glynda: Right Professor Yhwach?

Yhwach kept his eyes narrowed at Ironwood, Zaegar growled but Yhwach walked forward his shoulder hitting Ironwood as he did. Glynda looked between the other two men and then went after the Quincy king.

James: What's his problem Ozpin?

Ironwood inquired, turning to his colleague. Ozpin rested his hands on his cane, watching as Yhwach and Glynda entered the elevator.

Ozpin: I'm not sure. That's a behavior I haven't seen from him before.

Inside the elevator, Zaegar wrestled with his discomfort being near the Atlas General, coupled with his motion sickness. Silence filled the confined space until Glynda broke it.

Glynda: Yhwach...what was that all about?

Yhwach: What was what?

He asked as he leaned against the elevator wall. 

Glynda: You were treating James like he was some kind of....criminal, like you hated him. I understand that some of his methods are....a little much but-

The elevator doors open and Yhwach's eyes widen as he gazed out the windows of Ozpin's office. A fleet of airships littered the sky, all bearing the Atlas symbol on their sleek white frames. 

Glynda: Oh my Oum.....is that-

Glynda muttered as a very deep growl came from Zaegar's throat.

Zaegar: You call this shit a little much?

Zaegar said as Yhwach turned to Glynda.

Glynda: I don't know why so many of his fleet are here....I-I don't know what he could possibly be thinking.

She told them. 

Yhwach: There's no simple explanation for why such a formidable fleet would be assembled here. It could indicate intentions to protect, intimidate, or even launch an offensive. Which do you believe this general has in mind?

Glynda: Yhwach, we are in a time of peace! All four of the Kingdoms are in harmony, the last war brought so much destruction and no one wants that to happen again. I can promise you that much.

After a few more moments the elevator dinged and its doors opened. Ironwood and Ozpin walked out of it, the General's face was back to the stoic expression it was when Yhwach first saw him instead of the shocked one it had been when they spoke. Ozpin looked outside his window to the Atlas fleet as he walked around to his desk, an expectant and almost annoyed look on his face. Something that was reflected in Zaegar's new face.

James: We should get down to business.

Ironwood said as he put his scroll on Ozpin's desk. A hologram of his forces appeared over an outline of Vale. 

Ozpin: Agreed.

Ozpin said as he turned back around.

James: I've brought my forces here to better discourage Amber's attackers from continuing to pursue her. Though how they figured out she was here continues to confound me. It should also keep any fear from entering the citizens of Vale's minds

Zaegar snickered at his entire sentence and Glynda hit him again. 

Zaegar: What the fuck, you uptight bitch? Can't I even say a damn fucking word?

The general turned to the Quincy king.

James: You have something on your mind, professor?

Yhwach: Your military presence doesn't instill a sense of security. Instead, it breeds uncertainty, fear, and perhaps even animosity in certain quarters. I dare say, your fleet might inadvertently embolden the White Fang, encouraging them to escalate their activities within Vale. Their ranks could swell, leading to more frequent and violent attacks.

The other three in the room looked at him in shock, or slight disbelief on Ironwood's part. 

James: And what exactly, Mr. Yhwach, do you suggest we do?

he general inquired, his tone reflecting a mix of urgency and frustration.

Yhwach: Patience, General. Patience is a virtue often rewarded in the face of adversity. I would wager that your deployment of forces into Vale was merely one move in their intricate game. To assume they'd yield after their initial setback would be naïve. No, they likely have contingencies for their contingencies, meticulously planned to the last detail. The orchestration required to manipulate events to the point of accessing the power of a maiden is nothing short of remarkable.

Ironwood looked at Yhwach with utter confusion before he turned to Ozpin who only had an amused look on his face.

Ozpin: Well put Professor.

James: Ozpin, you surely understand my reasons for-

Ozpin: I understand your reasons James, but Yhwach makes a valid point. There may be a sense of comfort in seeing your fleet, but now....there's a question in the back of everyone's mind....if this is the size of our forces, what are we expecting to fight?

Ozpin said as he gestured to the sight behind him. Ironwood only sighed as he picked up his scroll.

James: Then what would you have me do?

Ozpin: Leave them for now, we can make it part of the festival. That would calm most of everyone, but as Yhwach said it would not calm the White Fang...Yhwach, have you found anything out about them in your...excursions?

Ozpin asked as he sat down.

Yhwach: Indeed. They maintain a base in the southeast. My assumption is Mount Glenn, given its isolated location.

Ozpin: A reasonable guess and Team RWBY would be the ones that found that out?

Yhwach grumbled.

Ozpin: I'll take that as a yes.....the Vytal Ball is in two days, and after that it's the first official mission day of the year.....team RWBY will most certainly find their way to Mount Glenn...Yhwach, I'll send you on a simple mission at the base of Mount Glenn so that you're within range to take care of anything that should arise. Ironwood, if you would be kind enough to keep whatever sensors and radars you have trained on in the southeast it would be a great help.

James: Ozpin your just taking his word? He got his information from some first-year team that-

Ozpin: That he has taught and helped keep them out of trouble. I have placed my trust in him as I have placed my trust in you, not any more or any less. That's why he is in our inner circle James. You may not trust him, and he may not trust you, but I ask you both to trust my decision to trust both of you. Alright?

Ozpin asked the both of them. 

Yhwach: My trust in you, Ozpin, extends to your judgment. Thus, I will extend my trust to him as you've requested.

Ozpin: Thank you, and James? 

Ozpin turned to his fellow headmaster and friend.

James: ...I...And I will trust him too.

Ironwood said. 

Ozpin: Well then, everything is settled. I suggest you all prepare for the Vytal Ball, which means getting fitted for a suit in Yhwach's case.

Yhwach's face scrunched into confusion.

Yhwach: Get what?

Glynda: I'll explain later Yhwach, for now, why don't we all just enjoy the rest of the weekend alright?

Glynda suggested.

James: Yes, things will be getting hectic around here with that Ball coming up. If it's alright with you Ozpin, I would like to up place some men around the school complex for better security.

Zaegar growled lowly but Ozpin merely smiled.

Ozpin: That would be more than acceptable James. More students will require more security.

James: Perfect, I'll inform my men and then we can speak on any other matters you may wish to discuss.

 Ironwood said.

Ozpin: That's perfect James, Glynda could you show James where he will be staying during the festival before he goes off to his men?

Glynda: I'd be happy to. Come, James. 

Glynda said as she walked towards the elevator. Ironwood walked towards her and by extension Yhwach. He stopped by him for a moment.

James: I know we may have gotten off on the wrong foot, but we are on the same side. So please allow me to start anew.

 Ironwood held out his gloved hand.

James: James Ironwood, it's a pleasure to be working with you.

Yhwach glanced at the offered hand, then closed his eyes with a faint sigh. After a moment, he accepted the handshake.

Yhwach: Yhwach. Here's hoping any preconceptions I've had about you are mistaken.

James: Likewise.

Glynda and Ozpin both smiled at the scene before Ironwood continued to walk towards Glynda. 

James: So where will I be staying?

He asked the combat professor as he stepped into the elevator. 

Glynda: Same as last year, and the year before that.

She told him as the doors shut leaving Zaegar, Yhwach, and Ozpin alone.

Zaegar: He was a bitch boy anyway.

Ginjo: (Within Yhwach's mind) Hah, looks like Zaegar's not one to hold back his opinions. I gotta say, his bluntness is kind of refreshing.

Yhwach's lips twitched slightly, a hint of amusement crossing his features as he glanced inwardly at Ginjo.

Yhwach: (Mental Link) He certainly doesn't mince words, does he?

As the sound of the elevator's wiring faded, a very serious expression crossed Ozpin's face. 

Ozpin: Zaegar... Down in the vault, you mentioned that you can smell magic... can you smell-

Zaegar: Spare me the redundant inquiry, you stinky fucking old man. It wasn't difficult, although your aura masked it upon our initial meeting. Once I didn't sense magic, we figured it wasn't common. I began sorting out the different scents, and yours had magic woven deep into it.

Ozpin sank into his chair, stirring quietly.

Ozpin: You've both known from the beginning...c-can you tell how-

Yhwach: We can discern the age of your magic. I would wager you're older than me by a long shot, yet your type of magic is far more fragile, even though it's a mere fraction of what it once was.

Yhwach turned towards the headmaster, his gaze piercing.

Ozpin's eyes widened and he nearly stood from his seat.

Ozpin: You're not going to ask?

Yhwach turned his head to look at the headmaster.

Yhwach: As I told you earlier, I have placed my trust in you Ozpin. Your secrets are yours to keep, as my secrets are mine to keep. If you wish to tell me why you have magic, or why it seems so fractured, that will be of your own accord. I will not ask for it.

Silence ensued for a few moments before a long sigh escaped Ozpin's lips.

Ozpin: Everyone has secrets that they hold close to themselves. It is hard to simply tell those secrets.

Yhwach thought back to his time with Aizen and Lee Everett.

Yhwach: Trust me...I know.

Another sigh came from Ozpin.

Ozpin: Well.....you have placed your trust in me and you have joined my inner circle. At the very least, I can tell you what is really plaguing humanity. Care to have a seat, just once more?

Zaegar: Hah, fuck no.

With that blunt refusal, Zaegar swiftly leaped from Yhwach's shoulder, his wings unfurling as he soared through the air. In a rapid movement, he landed right on Ozpin's desk, causing a small splash of liquid to fly from the mug and splatter across Ozpin's face.

Ozpin blinked in surprise, wiping the liquid from his face with a handkerchief as he looked at Zaegar with a mix of bemusement and exasperation.

Ozpin: Zaegar, must you always be so... dramatic?

Zaegar paid no heed to Ozpin's comment, instead focusing on the mug that now held him. He dipped his feet into the liquid, shivering slightly at the cold sensation.

Zaegar: It's cold in here.

With a casual touch of his reishi-infused power, Zaegar warmed up the liquid, turning it to a more comfortable temperature. Then, as if he had planned it all along, he produced a pair of sunglasses seemingly out of thin air and slipped them onto his face.

Zaegar: Ah, much better.

Ozpin watched the spectacle with a raised eyebrow, momentarily speechless at Zaegar's audacity and nonchalant demeanor.

Ozpin: Well, I suppose we're past the point of questioning your...unconventional behavior.

Zaegar simply grinned, leaning back in the mug with an air of satisfaction, enjoying the warmth and the attention he garnered from his antics.

Yhwach chuckled softly, amused by the exchange but maintaining his composed demeanor. It seemed that with Zaegar around, there would never be a dull moment. and sat down in the chair in front of Ozpin's desk. 

Zaegar: Do you mind if I give a guess about why you have a magical power that is older than your actual scent?

Ozpin laughed to himself.

Ozpin: By all means.

Zaegar: Reincarnation.

The white-haired man's eyes widened and his jaw dropped.

Ozpin: How did you...

Yhwach chuckled to himself.

Zaegar: Your magic reeks, and not in a good way. It's like a cheap knockoff of your aura, similar but definitely not the same. And your aura? It's a mess, a mishmash of scents from different sources like you've been recycling through countless losers for centuries.

Ginjo: (Within Yhwach's mind) Hah! That little dragon has quite a sharp tongue! But I gotta hand it to him, his observation skills are on point.

Yhwach's lips quirked up into a small smile at Zaegar's straightforward analysis, impressed by the dragon's perceptiveness.

Yhwach: It seems you've hit the mark, Zaegar.

Zaegar grinned triumphantly, puffing out his chest proudly as he soaked in the praise.

Zaegar: It's all in the nose, baby.

Ozpin leaned forward at his desk with a massive smile on his face.

Ozpin: You have no idea how much I've wanted to converse with someone as versed in magic as me, but I couldn't simply reveal I'm someone who has reincarnated over so many lifetimes. To merely speak of this with someone even close to my age is exhilarating. But that can wait.

Yhwach: So what is this real threat you've mentioned?

The Quincy king asked him, quelling his cheerful mood. 

Ozpin: It....she....is a single person. Like me, she has magic as I do....and she is just as old as I am. But if you both are to know her name, you are to know a little more about this world.

Yhwach leaned back in his seat.

Yhwach: More 'Myths and Bedtime Stories?'

As everyone laughed at Yhwach's statement, Ginjo wheezed from within Yhwach's mind, thoroughly entertained by the situation.

Ginjo: (Within Yhwach's mind) Hahaha, looks like even the mighty Quincy king isn't immune to a bit of humor! You've really got to lighten up, Yhwach.

Zaegar joined in the laughter, his draconian chuckles echoing through the room as he rocked back and forth in the mug.

Zaegar: ( Mental Link) Haha! Who knew the big bad Quincy King had a sense of humor? Guess you're not so serious after all!

Ozpin: Afraid so, but some myths are more truth than legend.

Yhwach shrugged before gesturing for Ozpin to continue his story.

Ozpin: Before I, or her, there were two brothers. The younger brother, the god of darkness, and the older brother, the god of light. The older brother spent his time creating life, things of beauty like flowers, water, and things that make our world's natural beauty so....well beautiful. His brother hated what he had made, and spent his time creating things to destroy what he had built. Drought, famine, fire...but no matter how much he destroyed his brother's creations, they always came back. Out of anger and spite, the god of darkness created one last thing something that would share in his destructive desires. Grimm. The older brother had enough of the younger brother's destruction and the two fought. The elder brother won, but he wouldn't strike down his brother, he, instead, offered out a hand to his brother and told him that together they would make something they could both be proud of....and so they made humans, they would be unlike any other creation they had ever made with the power to create and destroy. Humans were given the gift of knowledge, to learn about the world and themselves but most importantly....the gift of choice...humanity could create and protect, or it could destroy and harm.

Yhwach: ...So these "gods" bestowed upon humans the ability to create, destroy, learn, and choose? Why do those four things matter?

Yhwach asked the headmaster.

Ozpin: Those four things matter because they are real objects. The four relics, matter because when they are brought together, their user could change the face of the world. And that's what she wants, it's why she hunts the maidens.

Yhwach: You've said she several times, who...is...she?

Yhwach leaned forward. A very solemn look came over Ozpin's face.

Ozpin: Her name is Salem. You could consider her the Queen of Grimm.....and she is why I fight. It is my duty to defeat her and I have been failing for thousands of years. She is the one who has orchestrated it all, and like me, she can use magic.

A smile made its way over Zaegar's face before it settled into its normal state.

Zaegar: Then that makes us your secret weapons. I can use and search out magic, making me uniquely suited to deal with the minion that stole the maiden power as well as her.

Ozpin: That it does....your heritage also makes you suited for combating the white fang.

Ozpin sighed.

Ozpin: But with everything....we've both learned today, a rest would be required to digest all this information. But I do have but one question, if that's all right?

The Quincy king nodded to the headmaster.

Ozpin: Salem is the Queen of the Grimm, I am the Headmaster of Beacon, James is the General of Atlas....what are you? What is your title or what was your title?

Yhwach's demeanor shifted slightly, a subtle tension creeping into his posture at the mention of his past titles.

Yhwach: Those titles are but echoes of a bygone era. Here, they hold no sway. And I intend to keep it that way.

Ozpin: Fair enough. Why don't you head off to meet up with Glynda, I'm sure she will help you with the need for a suit for Sunday's festivities. I wish you luck.

Yhwach got up with a hesitant look on his face.

Yhwach: And why, may I ask?

Ozpin chuckled softly.

Ozpin: Oh, it's nothing sinister. Just a bit of...shopping.

Yhwach regarded Ozpin with skepticism.

Yhwach: Shopping? How challenging could that be?

Ozpin chuckled, nonchalantly.

Ozpin: You'll find out soon enough. Have a good evening, Yhwach. We'll reconvene tomorrow, post-shopping expedition.

As Yhwach entered the elevator, Ozpin chuckled to himself, shaking his head in amusement.

Zaegar and Ozpin: You poor, poor soul.