Outside of Team RWBY's dorm, two Atlesian Knight-200s guarding the room as a conversation was going on inside.

Ironwood: (Heard inside the room) I'm sorry, but you've left us with no choice

Yang: (Now inside the room, with her sitting on a bed angrily replying) But he attacked me!

Ironwood: (Pacing around the room, not looking at her) Video footage and millions of viewers say otherwise

Weiss: (Gesturing to her teammate from the other bed) But Yang would never do that!

Ruby: (Standing up from beside her sister) Yeah!

He turns around as Yang sighs and places her head in her hands.

Ironwood: You all seem like good students, and the staff here at Beacon are fully aware that you would never lash out the way you did... under normal circumstances. (continues as Ruby sits back down, the entire team looking despondent) What I believe and hope this to be is nothing more than the result of stress and adrenaline. When you're out on the battlefield, your judgment can become clouded in an instant. Sometimes, you see things that simply aren't there. Even after the fight is past... (With that last statement, he looks to the right while rolling his right shoulder)

Yang: But I wasn't -

Ironwood: (Angrily stern) That's ENOUGH! (when the room falls silent, he goes on) The sad truth is, whether it was an accident or an assault, it doesn't matter. The world saw you attack an innocent student. They've already drawn their own conclusions. And it's my job to inform you that... you are disqualified

Yang's shock turns into miserable understanding when she looks to the ground, and Ironwood leaves the room.

Yang: (When the door clicks shut, she turns to her friends) You guys believe me, right?

Ruby: Duh!

Weiss: (Shaking her head) You're hotheaded, but not ruthless

Yang: (When she realizes one of their number hasn't spoken) Blake?

Blake turns her gaze away, earning a shocked look between Ruby and Weiss.

Blake: I want to believe you...

Ruby: Huh!?

Weiss: What's that supposed to mean?

Yang: (Eyes widening, tears forming instantly as she says in a hurt voice) Blake...?

Weiss: (When Blake looks up at Yang, then back down) How can you say something like that? Yang would never lie to us!

Blake: (Glances at Weiss, then takes a deep breath before starting) I had someone very dear to me change, you all know who it is. It wasn't in an instant for her. It was gradual - little choices that began to pile up. She told me not to worry. At first, they were accidents, and then it was self-defense. Before long, even I began to think she was right... (she pauses) This is all just... very familiar. (As Yang looks up, tears now falling down her face) But you're not her. And you've never done anything like this before. So... I want to trust you. I will trust you. But first, I need you to look me in the eyes and tell me that he attacked you. I need you to promise me that you regret having to do what you did

Yang: (Wipes her eyes of tears, then says as calmly as possible) I saw him attack me, so I attacked back

Blake: (Let's out a deep breath as she closes her eyes and smiles, then looks back up at her partner) Okay. Thank you...

Yang: (Still looking down) I think I'm gonna rest up... if you see Daddy around, tell him I wanna talk to him

Blake: (Standing up with Weiss and Ruby, all of whom are smiling) You've got it. We'll get out of your hair

Cut to outside the room, where Ruby is closing the door, pausing only for a second to see Yang slump forward before shutting it completely. She then looked at her clothing and frowned. She needed to wash up and change.

Ruby joins Weiss and Blake in the middle of the hallway.

Weiss: (Shaking her head and sighing) This is a mess...

Jaune: (Following the sound of an opening door as he peeks out of Team JNPR's room, with his team peering around the edge in concern) She is doing okay?

Blake: She's doing the best she can. She'll get over this, after all, she's -

Ruby: (Holding her hands up) I heard Mercury and his team rushed back to Haven to be with his family. So, until they land, no one can really question him about what happened

Ren: If there's anything we can do, please don't hesitate to ask

Ruby: (Looking down) All right then. If that's the case... (turns her gaze up again) Pyrrha?

Pyrrha: (Looks at Ruby as she gets herself seated on on a bed) Hm?

Ruby: (Holding her clenched hands up as she tries to put on a grin) You be sure to win one for Beacon, okay?

Weiss: (Nodding as she and Blake also smile sadly) It's what Yang would want...

Pyrrha: (Turns her head away before coming back with her attempt at a confident look) I'll... do my best

Ruby: (Excitedly) I'll be sure to watch tonight in case you're picked!

Pyrrha's smile dips down into worry as she looks away.

Blake: Sorry, but I think I've had enough fighting for one year

Weiss: (Nodding once) Ditto. (a moment passes before she says) Coffee?

Blake: (Smiling) Tea

The three members of RWBY walk down the hall, and Jaune only closes the door when he sees Ruby disappear behind the corner. Pyrrha continues to look forlorn until...

Nora: (Suddenly getting up in Pyrrha's surprised face, grinning madly) You heard the lady! No more moping around!

She backs away to the other side of the room, now clad in pink workout clothes and sweatbands, as she points to Pyrrha.

Nora: We gotta get your butt in shape for the big fight!

She then slaps Pyrrha's but before beginning to do random exercises - running in place, pushups, jumping jacks - while she speaks.

Nora: It could be today, it could be tomorrow, it could be the most important fight of your entire life!

She culminates this demonstration by lifting a barbell tipped with 1000 pound weights on each end, holding it in the air and sweating profusely before falling backwards.

Pyrrha: (Smiling a little in bewilderment) Um...

Ren: (From another part of the room) Nora's right

Pyrrha looks to him in his pink apron reading, "PLEASE DO NOTHING TO THE COOK."

Ren: You can't let your concern for Yang hold you back. You need to focus. You'll be defending the honour of Beacon Academy

Pyrrha: (Nodding) Of course. I-

Ren: (Cuts her off as he holds a glass filled with a green liquid making bubbling noises in front of her face) This blend of herbs and vegetables is filled with nutrients vital to your body's well-being

Pyrrha: Oh, that's-

Ren: (Stepping away, smiling) Please, there's no need to thank me.

Nora: (Looking at her partner with a disgusted face) Thank you? Ugh, that looks like slime from a lakebed!

Ren: (Turns away from her, cradling his creation) Algae contains numerous spectacular properties. See for yourself. (lifts it towards her mouth)

Nora: (Sips it down and immediately regrets it, face turning the same sickly green as the healthy sludge) BLEGH!

She goes straight over to the waste basket and dunks her head in, getting all of the liquid out while continuing to make disgusted noises until she turns back around to Ren.

Nora: WHAT IS WRONG WITH YOU!? Ugh...

Ren: (Gesturing) Me? You're the one that wasted perfectly good juice

Nora: We're supposed to help Pyrrha, not poison her!

Ren: There was absolutely nothing wrong with that

Nora: (Hands on her hips as she resolutely states) If it looks the same coming up as it does going down, then there's something wrong!

Neither of them noticed Pyrrha's smile at their antics fade once more, though their leader does from the doorway.

Jaune: (Coming over and placing a hand on their shoulders) Hey, how about we all get some fresh air?

Pyrrha looks up at Jaune, who grins at his troubled friend.

...

...

...

Yang, still in the dorm sitting on Blake's bed, looks out the window at the members of JNPR walking in the courtyard outside, Nora marching alongside Ren with Jaune and Pyrrha in the back, all of them looking happy to be with each other. She now had a change of clothing.

F/N: (Suddenly revealed to be leaning against the door, arms crossed, and a small smile on his face) Hey there, firecracker. The girls said you wanted to see me?

Yang: (Slowly turns towards him) Daddy...

F/N: What is it, Ya -

He's cut off by Yang glomping onto him, hugging him tightly as tears filled her eyes. F/N looked down at his daughter, seeing her snuggle into his chest, staining his top with her tears.

F/N didn't say anything and simply hugged Yang back, holding her close as he brushed a hand through her blonde locks. This brought Yang a moment of peace.

It was just them too in the world right now.

F/N: I saw what happened, and you know what? I'm gonna ask you, right?

Yang: (Nods in his chest) ...

F/N: So, why'd you do it?

Yang: (She takes a second to respond) You know why...

F/N: All I know is that you attacked a helpless kid. So either you're lying or you're crazy. (he smiles jokingly)

Yang: (Staring resolutely up at her father) I'm not lying...

F/N: So you're crazy?

Yang: Daddy...

F/N: I know you're not either, Yang. I'm just confused about this as you are...

Yang: I just want you right now. Nothing else (cups his crotch and strokes it before looking up at him) can we...?

F/N: If it will help you, then yeah, we can

Yang gained a small smile before the two engaged in a soft and slow kiss. Savouring the moment as F/N closed tue door behind him.

After both of them stripped nude, F/N got on top of the blonde bombshell as she laid back on Blake's bed and continued their makeout session, moaning each other's names.

He gently cupped her plump breasts and groped them while rubbing his hardened cock against her glistening pussy lips and tuff of pubic hair, making Yang moaned louder. He could feel her juices leaking out onto his cock.

After a while, F/N pulled back from Yang's full lips, leaving a trail of saliva in the process. He then had her flipped on her side, resting her leg on his shoulder while prodding his the tip of his cock at her entrance before plunging it all in one go.

Yang bit into the pillow and moaned out in pleasure as she was filled with the warm cock she loved so much. F/N groaned from Yang's tightness despite how many times he's pounded this pussy into oblivion.

Yang: Daddy ~!

F/N began thrusting his cock in and out of her, making squelching noises as he fucked top heavy blonde. Her pussy leaked juices which provided lubricant with F/N spreading her open over and over. His hands snaked their way to her breasts and began fondling them.

Yang: I love you, Daddy. I love you so much ~!

F/N: I love you too, Yang...

Yang gripped the bedsheets, eagerly taking his cock into her pussy. Sucking it in as if it were a vacuum while continuing to leak her juices like a broken faucet. Eventually, Yang's tightness did F/N in as he grunted while she moaned, cumming inside her. He flooded her cunt with hot semen until the point it leaked out onto the bedsheets.

Soon, the duo were at it again, this time in a standing position in the middle of the bedroom. Yang had her arms wrapped around his head with her tits smothered his face, to which F/N sucked on her nipples.

Yang: Yes ~!

She cried out in ecstasy, bouncing up and down on his far cock, impaling her stuffed pussy in the second round. His balls slapping against Yang's ass as F/N thrust upwards.

Her nails dug into his back, moaning from having his cock stretching her pussy open to it's limit over and over, both of them moving together in a rhythm. Right now, it was only the two of them, losing to their lust-filled desires and fucked on pure instinct.

Yang: Daddy, I'm cumming again ~

F/N: Same here, Yang. Take it all in

He could feel his cock twitching violently, repeating several more hard thrusts before F/N hilted himself deep in Yang and unloaded his second load inside her. She pressed her lips against his, shoving her tounge into his mouth as they moaned into each other's mouths.

She was filled a second time by his hot seed, her eyes rolling back from the powerful climax. F/N's old batch of cum gushed out of Yang and dripped onto the floor, a new batch being pumped into her.

Letting Yang catch her breath for a moment, F/N now had Yang near the bedroom window that we're covered by the curtains. She held onto them, F/N now entering in and out Yang's asshole, moaning once more as F/N went at a slow and hard pace, which he gradually sped up on with ease thanks to their combined cum lubricanting his cock.

Yang: Fuck me harder ~

Her face had a begging and euphoric expression on it, she took his cock up her asshole no problem. F/N had thoroughly trained her asshole to take his fat cock into. Sweat covered their bodies from the steamy sex they had been having nonstop.

After fucking her for a while, F/N gave another lustful groan, his cock swelling up in Yang's asshole before shooting another thick, creamy load into her second fuck-hole.

Yang screamed out from the amazing experience, glad she had F/N in her life to fulfill her needs like this. He was the only one for her. Huge loads of his cum was delivered to the blonde brawler. Yang's legs wobbled and she soon collapsed on her knees with F/N still in her ass, continuing to pump her up with his seed.

After a minute of cumming into her, F/N felt his cock deflate and go flaccid inside Yang. He pulled it out with a wet pop as Yang's asshole puckered up immediately to keep his semen in and stop from spilling out.

The blonde panted, tired from having both her holes filled, but ultimately satisfied as she smiled up at F/N.

Seeing some semen leaking from the slit of his cock tip, Yang leaned in, sucking and licking his cock clean with her mouth and tounge.

Once done, F/N placed Yang on Weiss' bed. The two laid their together, Yang cuddling up to him while F/N wrapped an arm around her, holding her naked body close to his.

She had a competent smile on her face, eyes closed... while F/N stared up at the bottom of Ruby's top bunk, an unreadable expression now on his face.

F/N: ...

...

...

...

In the twilight, Pyrrha sits alone outside the dining hall, head bowed as the wind rises.

She sees the air blow a single orange leaf onto the cobblestones at her feet, and she looks at the fall colors with a face of total fright, remembering the sight of Amber in her comatose state and the choice weighing her down.

Nora: (Cutting through her flashback) Heya, Pyrrha

She turns her head up to see her smiling friend with a large cone of cotton candy.

Nora: It's not that green goopy nastiness or delicious pancakes, but I think it still might do some good!

Pyrrha: (Stares at the offered treat while she comes back to the real world before hesitantly taking it) Um, right. Thank you, Nora...

Nora's beam fades as he sees her still-tormented face, and looks to the far end of the building before looking back to Pyrrha and takes a seat next to her.

Nora: You know... I've come to really care about you, Pyrrha. And I'm not just saying that because we all love the same mam or the fact we have our own little fun together whenever we can...

She manages to get her to look at him as he laughs in sadness to himself.

Nora: Before I met you and everyone else, Ren was my only friend, and before him? No one... it was me against the world. Me and these amazing thunder thigs! (Slaps her thighs to prove her point) heh...

Pyrrha: Oh, Nora... I'm so sorry to hear that. Truly...

Her sorrow becomes surprise, eyes widening and dropping the pink fluffy snack as she realizes Nora's hand is placed upon hers.

Nora: You've become someone I can rely on besides Ren. You've always been there for me ever since we met... and I can tell there's something on your mind, so... I don't know. How can I help?

Pyrrha: (As her astonishment melts away into contentment, she leans over and places her head in a startled Nora's shoulder, closing her eyes) You're already doing it...

Nora quickly matches Pyrrha's smile with his own, and the two stay there for a long moment, but as an additional autumn leaf joins the first, Pyrrha's expression darkens once more.

Pyrrha: Nora... (gets up from her nestling)

Nora: Hmm?

Pyrrha: (She suddenly takes her hand out from hers, looking away) I don't know what to do...

Nora: What do you mean? You don't know what to do with what?

Pyrrha: (Glances up as she wonders what to say) Do you believe in destiny?

Nora: (Taken aback) Um... I-I don't know. I guess that depends on how you view it. Does me discovering pancakes count as destiny?

Pyrrha: (Explains her opinion as the wind blows the two leaves away) When I think of destiny, I don't think of a predetermined fate you can't escape. But rather... some sort of final goal, something you work towards your entire life

Nora: (Slowly nodding her head) Okay. Uh, yeah. I can see that, sure. Though I think my pancake analogy makes more sense

Pyrrha: (Struggling to find the right words as she glances at her) Well... what would you do if something came along that you... never expected? Something that had the potential to stand between you and your destiny?

Nora: Like what?

Pyrrha: (Barreling on in stress) Or what if you could suddenly fulfil your destiny in an instant, but at the cost of who you were?

Nora: (Leaning over and attempting to place her hand on her shoulder) Pyrrha, you're not making any sense. You're speaking gibberish, girl!

Pyrrha: (Standing up away from his touch, holding herself as if on the verge of tears) None of it makes sense! This isn't how things were supposed to happen!

Nora: (Gets up as well, spreading her arms in confusion) I'm sorry! Please, I-I'm just trying to understand what's wrong!

Pyrrha: I've always felt as though I was destined to become a Huntress - to protect the world, that's what F/N had trained me to become... *sighs*, and it's become increasingly clear to me that my feelings were right. But... (she turns to look at Nora) ... I don't know if I can do it. I don't know if I can live up to the expectations he's given me

Nora: Of course you can! The Pyrrha Nikos I know would never back down from a challenge! And if you really believe it's your destiny to save the world... (she moves towards her, confident in her answer) you can't let anything stand in your way. No nothing or no one. If this is your path, then embrace it with open arms!

Despite Nora's intentions, this doesn't bring relief. Instead, Pyrrha looks absolutely shattered, covering her mouth as she begins to sob.

Nora: (Realizing her mistake) Pyrrha...?

Pyrrha: (Turning away, face still in her hands) Stop...

Nora: (Continuing to approach) Did I say something wrong?

Pyrrha: STOP!

Turning around, she pushed Nora away from her. Nora tumbled back before falling flat on her but. Seeing this, Pyrrha's eyes widened in realisation at what she had done.

Pyrrha: Nora!

She lowers her hand and lets him fall to the ground, finally letting the tears come as he looks up.

Pyrrha: I'm... I'm sorry...

Nora: Pyrrha, wait! It didn't hurt that much!

Her outstretched arm does nothing to stop her from running away, and she faces the ground, cotton candy still discarded beside her.

Nora: Was my pancake analogy too hard for her to understand...? (Looks at the cotton candy) my cotton candy...

_________________________________________

...

...

...

_________________________________________

At the cliffside docking bays down the main alleyway and under the floating Amity Colosseum, Ruby walks up to the end of the line, waiting to get in the transport up to the area.

She turns her head to see Brawnz Ni and Nolan Porfirio talking outside the line, and beyond that, Sun walking away, Ruyi Bang and Jingu Bang over his shoulder, with a familiar rabbit Faunus snapping photos of him.

Ruby steps out of line and approaches her from behind as she continues taking pictures with her camera until she notices who's behind her.

Velvet: (Turning around) Ruby, how are you going?

Ruby: (Raising a hand in greeting) Hi, Velvet! What're you up to?

Velvet: (Rolling her eyes happily) Oh, you know. I'm just working on my photography. Do you wanna see?

She offers her camera to Ruby, looking extremely delighted. Ruby immediately notices that Velvet didn't even get all of Sun in her picture, cutting out his head and feet.

Ruby: That's... better. (steps away as she grins in forced approval)

Velvet: (Decides to ask in concern) I'm... sorry to hear about your sister. Is she doing okay?

Ruby: (Looking away) Yeah, she's fine, heh. Thanks...

Velvet: (As she puts Anesidora away in the box on her back) I think it's just awful what people are saying about her. Yang's such a nice person

Ruby: (Laughs a little as she rubs the back of her head) Well, I'm glad someone thinks so...

Velvet: (Shaking her head, arms crossed) Most people don't know what it's like on the battlefield. I mean, even experienced fighters can get scared and start seeing things. If it happened to Coco, it can happen to anyone

Ruby: (Cocking her head to the side) Coco?

Velvet: Yeah. She swore she saw Yatsu with her in the forest during the fight with Emerald and Mercury, but he never even made it out of the geyser fields. Stress-induced hallucinations, apparently...

Ruby: Yeah...

She turns her head away in thought, only to look back at Velvet after a quick flash startles her.

Ruby: Eep!

Velvet: (Lowering the camera from her face, smiling apologetically) Oh! Sorry!

_________________________________________

...

...

...

_________________________________________

Back in the Colosseum, people are back in the stands cheering and ready for entertainment as Ruby descends down the steps to an open seat.

Despite everything that's happened, she's smiling widely, looking around at the assembled crowds... until her stupefied eyes see a familiar, glaring face on the other side of the arena.

Ruby: Emerald's... here?

As if sensing she's being watched, Emerald leans forward to glare at Ruby, who suddenly gets up with a worried expression and runs towards the exit tunnel.

Checking to see if no one's around, she enters a door labelled with a yellow maintenance sign and finds herself inside of the Colosseum.

She walks forward with determination as the announcers' voices are heard, muffled behind the brick walls.

Oobleck: All right, it's now time to begin the randomization process for our next fight!

The sound of the roulette is heard faintly, but what makes Ruby stop in her tracks is the sight of another unexpected "friend" stepping out from a nearby tunnel, completely unharmed and definitely not going home.

Ruby: (Squinting as if making sure) Mercury...?

Port: It looks like our first contender is... Penny Polendina from Atlas...

Ruby: (Her attention goes from the broadcast to the fraud) What are you doing?

Port: And her opponent will be... Pyrrha Nikos from Beacon!

Ruby: (Her head dips in thought until she realizes the awful truth) No...

Mercury: (Putting a hand to his chin) Ooh, polarity versus metal. That could be bad, don't you think?

Ruby glares at her new opponent, reaching back to grab Crescent Rose, only to remember she doesn't have it on her. Mercury simply grins maliciously and sets himself up in a fighting pose.

Mercury: You may have gotten your Viltrumite powers, but that still ain't gonna stop be. You're not your old man, after all. You're not superior...

Outside, the arena's center is lifting back into the air, and an oblivious Penny is grinning wildly, with her fellow redhead Nora cheering excitedly from the stands, even getting Ren to let out a reluctant "Yaaay..."

Pyrrha's face and body is still filled with depression, she looks to the ground while the stage finishes being set up.

...

...

...

The clanks of turning gears found over the headmaster's office can be heard, with Professor Ozpin himself walking back to his desk and pouring himself a drink from his teapot as he watches the Vytal Festival Tournament's roulette system deciding the next match.

Oobleck: (Over the broadcast) Alright, it's now time to begin the randomization process for our next fight!

Port: It looks like our first contender is... Penny Polendina, from Atlas! And her opponent will be... Pyrrha Nikos, from Beacon!

Ozpin seats himself behind his desk and takes a sip from his cup as he stares at the "randomized" fight to be.

Down in the arena of Amity Colosseum, Pyrrha is still looking hesitant and distracted while Penny politely salutes her opponent.

Penny: (Hands on her hips in excitement) Sal-u-tations, Pyrrha Nikos! It's an honour to finally meet you!

The troubled Pyrrha doesn't respond, looking at her hands as she clenches them in attempted determination.

Penny: (Not noticing Pyrrha's reluctance) This is going to be so much fun!

In the same structure behind closed doors, Ruby is still facing down an up-and-standing Mercury, who's smugly smiling at the younger girl's confusion.

Ruby: Mercury, what are you doing? You were hurt! Why... (narrows her eyes in suspicion) What's going on?

Mercury doesn't answer, still grinning with malice.

Ruby: Fine. If you're not going to tell me...

She attempts to move around him, but he blocks her path, then does it again when she sidesteps.

Oobleck: (Over the announcement system to draw Ruby's attention away) Fighters, are you ready?

Mercury smirks.

Penny beams widely in anticipation, but Pyrrha is still looking around as if in a daze, though she manages a small scowl at her opponent, her weapons Miló and Akoúo̱ already in hand.

Oobleck counts down as General Ironwood calmly sits to observe the fight, Nora and Lie Ren cheer for their teammate while Jaune simply watches anxiously, and Emerald leans forward with a glare.

Oobleck: 3, 2, 1... (Oobleck leans forward) BEGIN!

Suddenly, Penny is surrounded by Floating Array, gesturing the swords around to her command before launching a volley of them at Pyrrha, who runs towards them and leaps though or deflects each aimed blade. The swords fly into the air until they turn around and come back to the fight.

Mercury: (Looking back at Ruby) Showtime

He goes forward, blocking Ruby's path with his arms outstretched, restraining her movements no matter where she moves.

Panicked, she grimaces and spins forward, becoming a blur of red and petals rocketing toward Mercury, only for the villain to kick her twice mid-dash with Talaria and knock her to the ground.

Mercury: (Grinning evilly) What's wrong? Scared to use your Viltrumite powers on me? Hurt me more than your sister did?

He advances on her just as she gets out her Scroll, about to push the button to call for help when a bullet sends the device flying out of her hand.

Mercury: (Lowering his leg from its kick) Let's just keep this between us friends. (he moves towards her)

Pyrrha, now having returned the shield to her back, twirls the javelin to block each sword swipe of Penny's, dropping her weapon when she needs to somersault away after being hit by a slash, only to magnetically return it to her hand as Penny readies another wave of blades.

Port: My word! What a tremendous display by Miss Polendina!

Fully glowering, Pyrrha rushes forward and jumps on an incoming sword, swinging down on Penny, only to have the assault halted by a collection of blades, though she leaps away from the retaliatory slice as Penny backs away as well.

She tries to defend against the multitude of swords with the length of her weapon but is forced back regardless, prompting Pyrrha to roll the shield from her back onto her arm with her polarity.

Nora: (Cheering with her arms wide alongside a fist-pumping Ren and worried Jaune) Whoo, yeah! Goooo Pyrrha!

Despite the cheers, Pyrrha isn't doing well, looking down to see her Semblance's black energy bend the weapons in her hands unnaturally for a split second. Emerald narrows her gaze further, continuing to concentrate on Pyrrha.

Ruby attempts to block a kick from Mercury with her arms but gets a face-full of boot. Next, he fires a shot, but she manages to duck then barely misses being hit by his downward kick and leaps over his leg, spiralling past him, this time getting much father down the corridor She kicks off of the wall and falls to the ground, pumping her arms as she runs for the exit.

Pyrrha spins wildly as she deflects and dodges each sword, until she gets close enough to Penny to deliver a few slashes with the spear, sending her flying back as Pyrrha bats aside the blades called to their wielder's aid.

Penny slides to a stop and makes a new series of motions, the weapons folding up until she's circled by several laser rifles, a few of which open fire on the approaching champion. Pyrrha avoids the blasts and fights off the remaining swords with her blade until she slides into position to charge at Penny and knock her back. Pyrrha straightens with a victorious grin that disappears into dizziness, just as she sees Penny rocketing forward, weapons firing behind her like a jetpack so she can leap into the air, then come down as an energized meteor on her opponent.

Rolling back to her feet, Pyrrha doesn't expect a sword to knock her shield off, then another to do the same for her blade. She tries to get the latter back with her magnetism but has to use the power to send a flying sword back at Penny's side. It disappears behind Penny, only for her to grin and raise her arms as several appear above her, aimed to strike.

With Emerald still squinting down on the arena, the sharp sound of Emerald's Semblance is heard as Penny's eight swords double, then triple, multiplying into an unreal thicket of blades.

At the sight of this, Pyrrha unsteadily steps back, both in reality where the eight swords are ready to go forth and in the hallucinated world, where the cloud of weapons thicken to even block the crowds around her.

Penny sends them all forward, few in reality and hundreds strong in Pyrrha's mind, who is left with no choice but to spread her arms and send out a magnetized shockwave. Each blade is sent reeling back to Penny, who is also unintentionally affected by the Semblance attack clutching her chest in pain.

Pyrrha only has a brief moment to understand what's happening before Penny's arms are spread wide as she gasps, the strings attached to her own weapons curling around her left arm and midsection, which are crumpled by the force with the ease of an aluminum can.

There is a moment of darkness, cut by the wire slicing through the electronics in Penny's torso to reveal a shocked Pyrrha and the entire stadium, watching the now unmoving blades drop to the ground.

A piece of fabric flutters to the arena floor, only to be pinned by the point of a falling blade, away from the torn halves of Penny Polendina.

Pyrrha stares in abject horror, eyes wide and mouth agape.

Port: (Straightening in shock at the revelation alongside Oobleck, and with Ozpin standing up from his chair back at Beacon) No!

While the remains of Penny's missing arm spark with electricity from the exposed wiring inside, her big green irises, now looking like camera shutters, slowly expand so her dark, lifeless pupils take up most of her eyes with the sound of a machine shutting down.

In an Atlas laboratory, a balding white-bearded man watches the live footage on the news, his hand gripping the armrest of his chair tightly.

The crowds are still terrified by the sight, and miles away in Mountain Glenn, Grimm of all kinds turn toward the Colosseum and begin to charge.

Finally, Ruby turns a corner and emerges from the service tunnel, only to see with her own eyes that she is far too late.

Ruby: (Falling to her knees) Penny...

She begins to cry, and the tears fall as she sobs miserably.

The levitating arena is lowered back into place under the spotlights, and Mercury appears behind the weeping Ruby, grinning widely at his success in delaying her before stepping back into the Colosseum's maintenance area.

Ruby tenses slightly as she hears his footsteps but slumps forward once again as the door noisily swings shut.

Oobleck: (Putting a hand up to his ear) Broadcast, what are you doing? Kill the feed!

Broadcast Op: (Over the earpiece) Something's wrong! We don't have control of the cameras! We can't even stop the broadcast!

Oobleck: What!? How is that possible!?

In answer, the background behind the two teachers changes to the video feed of the sight before them as it now switches to a familiar logo that everyone will now fear.

The symbol of the Viltrumites.

They turn back to the arena as a familiar voice rings out throughout the Colosseum and the rest of the world watching these events. Superior descended downwards into the stadium, floating in the middle as everyone now had their eyes on him.

Ruby: Daddy...?

Superior: This is not a tragedy. This was not an accident. This is what happens when you hand over your trust, your safety, your children, to men who claim to be our guardians

Several audience members look uneasy, while Jaune is seen mouth agape in shock.

Superior: But are, in reality, nothing more than men

Cinder is seen standing on a rooftop, watching on through her scroll. A grin of happiness on her face. It was finally happening, and she couldn't be anything more but excited.

Superior: Your Academies' Headmasters wield more power than most armies, and one was audacious enough to control both...

Ironwood, realizing who he's talking about, grimaces and rises from his seat, marching up the steps.

Superior: They cling to this power in the name of peace, and yet, what do we have here? One nation's attempt at a synthetic army, mercilessly torn apart by another's star pupil. What need would Atlas have for a soldier disguised as an innocent bystander? I don't think the Grimm can tell the difference.

Pyrrha continues to stare at the remains of Penny in dread and guilt. Lips parting as she raises a hand to cover her mouth. Then her eyes start watering, a single tear falling.

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...

Back in the fairgrounds, a gaping Weiss and Blake watch the hacked screen of the Shopkeep's stall.

The owner and several others, including Roy Stallion, are gathered nearby. Blake's expression was one of disbelief speech continues.

Blake: F/N... no...

Superior: And what, I ask you, is Ozpin teaching his students? First a dismemberment, now this? Huntsmen and Huntresses should carry themselves with honour and mercy, yet I have witnessed neither

The two teammates share a look before the last member of RWBY, Yang, is seen hunching over her windowsill, listening to the speech before she straightens and turns as Zwei barks behind her.

Superior: Perhaps Ozpin felt as though defeating Atlas in the Tournament would help people forget his colossal failure to protect Vale when the Grimm invaded its streets. Or perhaps this was his message to the tyrannical dictator that has occupied an unsuspecting kingdom with armed forces. Honestly, I haven't the slightest clue as to who is right and who is wrong. But I know the existence of peace is fragile, and the leaders of your kingdoms conduct their business with iron gloves

Ozpin watches the screen intently, the Long Memory at his side, and Atlesian Airships hovering beyond his window.

Amid the silence over the Colosseum as they absorb the revolutionary words, no one notices Emerald exit the stadium.

Superior: Your kingdoms are on the brink of war, yet you, the citizens, are left in the dark...

Two blue Atlas Soldiers watch the message on their scroll, not noticing the wave of Grimm coming out of the mist shrouded treeline until they hear growling.

Both turn and open fire the best they can, shooting down a few. But many more rush past them with Superior's voice still stirring up trouble from his position with a calm expression.

Superior: But fear not, that is why I am here. Under the rule of the Viltrumite Empire, you will be saved from such a horrible fate. Your livelihood will be guaranteed, but if you choose not to comply and be a part of something that is bigger than you all. Something better, greater. Well...

He gestured to the deceased Penny as no one could believe what was happening right now.

Superior: You will all join her in the same fate...

Oobleck: (To Port) We can't get a message out!

Port: (To the people working behind the scenes) Will somebody tell me what in the world is happening!?

The question is answered with the sound of a wailing alarm throughout the structure, with humans and Faunus and even a Henchman holding a tub of popcorn looking up in alarm at the orange flashing screens reading "CAUTION".

Warning Announcer: Alert. Incoming Grimm attack. Threat level: Nine. Please seek shelter in a calm and orderly manner

Superior: (With a chilling tone) Time for you all to see how inferior you all truly are...

The crowds begin to flee, wild and screaming, through the exit tunnels, while Ironwood enters the announcers' box and grabs the microphone from between Port and Oobleck.

Ironwood: Ladies and gentlemen, please. There is no need for panic! Dammit, F/N! What are you doing?!

With that said, a Giant Nevermore appears atop the arena's domed force field, giving a series of deafening screeches as it claws and pecks at the defence with its beak.

Sun: (Standing up in alarm along with Coco Adel) A Nevermore!?

Coco: (Lowering her sunglasses) How did it get past the Kingdom's defences!?

Ren: (Rising up beside them) It wasn't alone...

In the headmaster's office, Ozpin is gripping his cane tight, watching the city come under attack with a horrified expression.

Ozpin: F/N... this was your true intention all along, wasn't it?

Qrow: (Running in with Glynda) Oz!

Ozpin: (Turning to them) Get to the city!

Qrow: But -

Ozpin: (Resolutely) NOW!

Qrow and Glynda exchange a look before going back the way they came.

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Meanwhile, Mountain Glenn is almost silent, as every monster lurking there from Beowolves to Boarbatusks, Ursai and Nevermores, and even lumbering Goliaths with wide red eyes rush forward.

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Ironwood: (Back at the Colosseum watching the Nevermore attack the shields until he answers his Scroll, stammering) Ozpin, the girl... I-I can explain!

Ozpin: (Gravely) You brought your army to my Kingdom, James. (a beat, then angrily) Use it

Ironwood's worry turns to determination. His fleet of ships is being attacked by even more giant Nevermores, though, to minimal effect.

Soldiers inside are scrambling to enter commands inside the bridge around their commanding officer.

Atlas Ship Captain: Dammit! (speaking into his scroll as he turns to the screen of data) This is Blue Four! Blues Two and Three, fall into a defensive position!

Blue Three: (Over the Scroll) Roger! Blue Three, in position!

Atlas Ship Captain: Blue Two, what's your status? (no response) Blue Two, come in! Someone answer me, dammit!

He doesn't know that the bridge of the last ship is wrecked, computers sparking and men down as a pair of high boots walk through the destruction.

Dressed in an Atlas uniform and holding both Hush and Melodic Cudgel with a feathered hat on top, Neopolitan opens the door of a familiar-looking cell with a devious smirk, Ilia by her side.

Roman: Well... it's about time... (leans out of the shadows and into the light) nice seeing you again, lizzie

Ilia: Shut up, let's do what we were ordered to

Roman: Party pooper...

Cut to outside the Airships, where the furthest craft suddenly turns towards its allies and fires several bright red lasers at the engine of the one closest to it.

Atlas Ship Captain: We're hit! What's going-

Before he can finish speaking, the flaming ship crashes into another in a series of explosions and sends both of them tumbling toward the waters below.

Roman: (Laughing manically at the controls as Neo and Ilia watched from the side) Woo-hoohahahaha! Oohh, it is good to be back!

Neo smiled happily while Ilia simply crossed her arms and rolled her eyes in annoyance while Roman continued to have his fun.

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Finally, at Beacon's cliffside landing platforms, three Bullheads arrive, the middle one opening its hatch to reveal four members of the White Fang and their leader.

Adam: Bring them to their knees!

Another Bullhead opens its door, this time with several creatures of Grimm inside.

A growling Ursa jumps from it and lands on Academy grounds. The foreboding scene darkens as the Ursa's roar echoes, leaving only the burning red eyes of the monster, until they too disappear.

___________[To Be Continued]___________