15.5 Cinder Time

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~In the Land of Darkness~

(Haven't seen Cinder in forever, let's see how she's doing!)

Cinder explodes to pieces.

(Oh... Well that's that!

End Part!

..... Just kidding, here's what's really up)

Cinder is standing next to Salem as a Seer projects the image of Watts and Lionheart.

Lionheart: Your Grace, are... you there?

Salem: Hello, Leonardo. Do you have something to report?

Lionheart: Of course, ma'am. I would not waste your time, if not.

Watts: I'm still just so fascinated by this creature. Cinder dear, are we coming through? *tapping the Seer* Can you see us clearly? Well, as clearly as you can.

Cinder: Shut... up.

Watts: *sarcastic* Oh goody, you've recovered.

Salem: Your report. What is it?

Lionheart: I've... I've found the Spring Maiden.

Salem: Is that so? Well done. Arthur, had I known how useful you'd be in expediting this process, I would've sent you long, long ago.

Watts: As much as I'd love to take credit, ma'am, I can't say that either of us are to thank for this development. I guess you could say, a little birdie told us.

Salem: Explain.

Lionheart: You see, ma'am, Qrow Branwen arrived at Haven Academy earlier today. He believes Spring has taken residence with his sister's tribe.

Cinder: Is... the girl... with him?

Watts: Yes, Miss Rose was in attendance. As well as our old friend Reaper, care to explain why a dead Grimm is among the land of the living your grace?

Salem: A.... minor complication in Cinder's recovery. Now, do you know of the tribe's location?

Lionheart: Yes ma'am! But you have to hurry! Qrow is already at odds with my--

Salem makes a face of annoyed concentration and in response one of the Seer Grimm's tentacles shoots out to wrap around Lionheart's throat and choke him. Cinder's eye widens for a moment.

Salem: Leonardo, do you remember the first time we met? I remember. I remember your fear. But, since that day, you've been extraordinarily brave. I won't forget all that you've done for me. Do not forget everything that I can do to you.

The Seer Grimm slowly brings the point of another tentacle close to the face of Lionheart before drawing it back. Salem makes a gesture, and the tentacle simultaneously releases him from the chokehold. Lionheart coughs and gasps for breath.

Salem: Cinder, you and your team will meet with Doctor Watts, and together, convince Raven Branwen that the survival of her people depends on her cooperation. Once you have Spring under control, escort her to the Relic and contact Hazel. The White Fang was promised the destruction of Haven, and they'll have it once we have what we need.

Watts: Understood.

Salem: Not you, Arthur. Tyrian's in need of a new tail.

Watts: What happened to his old one?

Cinder: Reaper...

Watts: I see, it will be done.

Salem: Good.

The image of Watts and Lionheart disappear from the Seer. Cinder is clearly unhappy.

Salem: You're free to speak your mind.

Cinder: I don't understand. Working with bandits? Keeping Ruby alive? What's the point? We're strong enough to take what we want by force!

Salem: Never underestimate the usefulness of others. Take Leonardo; he was one of Ozpin's most trusted, and yet now... *chuckles* Besides, with Reaper already with Qrow so quickly, we can't just take what we want, we must be tactful if we are to succeed. You will have the power I promised you, when the time is right. But remember that it comes with a cost. If Ruby Rose has learned to harness her gift, then you must take care to protect yours. There's only so much I can do to aid you.

Cinder bows to Salem and goes to exit the room.

Salem: And Cinder, before you go, inform Tyrian... *her smile turning to a frown* that I wish to have a word with him.

Cinder smiles, nods in acknowledgement of Salem's order and turns, leaving the room. She frowns after the door closes and she walks the halls of the castle to reach Tyrian.

Cinder: Are you seriously trying to get killed again Reaper? Now Salem's definitely going to target you if you're fighting for Ozpin. Oh great, I'm talking to myself like I still have another soul in my head. Can't believe I'm actually missing the annoying jerk.

Cinder sighs and keeps walking.

End Part!

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