Flashback: The Interrogation Room

The scene opens back in the dimly lit interrogation room, moments after Ruby has left. Strikerz remains seated, a subtle smirk playing on his lips as Ozpin and Glynda resume their places opposite him.

Ozpin leaned back in his chair, observing Strikerz with a thoughtful expression. "Well, Mr. Strikerz, it seems you have quite the knack for getting into trouble."

Strikerz shrugged. "I call it a knack for survival."

Ozpin smiled. "Indeed. Your skills are impressive, and your background—while unconventional—could be an asset to Beacon. Have you ever considered a teaching role? Perhaps as an assistant instructor?"

Strikerz raised an eyebrow. "Teaching? That's not really my style. I work alone."

Glynda interjected, "We need someone with your experience to provide practical combat training. Think of it as an opportunity to pass on your knowledge."

Strikerz leaned forward, resting his arms on the table. "Alright, let's say I'm interested. What's in it for me?"

Ozpin placed a stack of paperwork in front of Strikerz. "In addition to the standard benefits, you'll have access to all of Beacon's resources, including its armory, training facilities, and research labs. Plus, you'll be part of a team dedicated to protecting and training the next generation of Huntsmen and Huntresses."

Strikerz picked up the top form, scanning it briefly before pushing it back towards Ozpin. "I'll pass. I'm not looking to be tied down with responsibilities and rules."

Ozpin exchanged a glance with Glynda, then sighed. "Very well, but perhaps you'd consider an alternative arrangement?"

Strikerz leaned back, a grin spreading across his face. "I might be willing to negotiate."

Ozpin pulled out another set of forms, this time offering them to Strikerz. "This is a more flexible contract, allowing you to operate with greater autonomy while still contributing to our mission."

Strikerz flipped through the papers, pausing on one labeled "Teacher's Assistant Agreement." His eyes flickered with interest as he read through the terms. "This still seems a bit restrictive."

"Rest assured," Ozpin said, "we can make accommodations to suit your needs. Just sign here, and we'll handle the rest."

Strikerz, however, was 4 parallel universes ahead. He pulled out a folder from his duffel bag and slid it across the table. "Actually, I have my own terms."

Ozpin and Glynda exchanged a wary glance before opening the folder. Inside were meticulously prepared documents outlining Strikerz's own conditions for his role at Beacon. The terms included extensive freedom of movement, access to all facilities without prior approval, and a clause preventing expulsion without unanimous agreement from the entire faculty.

Glynda frowned. "These terms are highly irregular."

Strikerz shrugged. "Take it or leave it."

Ozpin studied the documents for a moment, then smiled. "You drive a hard bargain, Mr. Strikerz. But I see potential in you. Consider it done."

Glynda's frown deepened, but she reluctantly added her signature next to Ozpin's.

Strikerz grinned, signing his name with a flourish. "Pleasure doing business with you."

The scene cuts to a few minutes later. As Ozpin and Glynda review the signed documents, their expressions shift from satisfaction to realization. They had been outmaneuvered.

Ozpin leaned back, a look of impressed amusement on his face. "Well played, Mr. Strikerz. Very well played."

Glynda, on the other hand, was fuming. "You conniving little—"

Strikerz stood up, slinging his duffel bag over his shoulder. "Now, now, Professor Goodwitch. Let's not make this personal. I'm just here to help."

"You'd better not abuse this," Glynda warned, her eyes narrowing.

"Wouldn't dream of it," Strikerz said with a mock salute. "See you around, Professors."

As he walked out of the room, Ozpin turned to Glynda, his amusement clear. "He might be just what we need."

Glynda crossed her arms, her expression hardening. "Or he might be our worst mistake."

The scene transitions back to the present, with the airship carrying Ruby, Yang, and Strikerz approaching Beacon Academy, the future unfolding before them in unpredictable ways.