Optimistic Game Chapter 81

I know there might be a little confusion, seeing that I uploaded a chapter to QQ and FFN before Patreon, but it's not what you think. The chapter I posted recently was 75, not 76 (it shows 79 on FFN because FFN counts interludes as entire chapters). I initially held off on posting it during the appropriate time (during the posting of chapter 80 here on Patreon) because I wanted the negativity caused by C74 and C74.5 to pass first.

Yeah, readers didn't like those chapters very much lmao.

Anyway, I'll hold off on posting C76 publically for a few days since I don't like posting two chapters of the same fic too fast. Hopefully that's enough to clear up the concerns you might have. Enjoy the chapter.

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Edited by: Marethyu Priapus

Quest completed

And that’s that. Final dungeon in Anima. Hopefully. I could’ve missed one or two, but I doubt it. I double-checked by flying around the continent twice. Sentry made my life so much easier with its flight ability.

It wasn’t fun when I had to fly around the desert, but oh well. I had the equipment to deal with the dry heat.

Even then, it felt like it took me ages to get to this point, but only about ten days have passed since my meeting with Salem. I don’t know how many dungeons I completed, and to be honest, I wasn’t keeping count, but it has to be above a hundred. Granted, a lot of them are common tier and whatnot, but I did complete a few epics and rares here and there.

I have enough materials to last me months now, which is a nice bonus.

“Ah, thank you! Thank you so much, Warrior!” The old chieftain shakes my hand, thanking me profusely after I’ve killed the Cyclops terrorizing his village. “How could we ever repay you.”

“It’s my pleasure, Mr. Frath. You don’t owe me anything.” I respond, glancing at the village children petting my giant wolf. “I saw people in need and jumped to help. Wouldn’t anyone?”

Besides, I already got the Cyclops eye for myself. That’s practically all I want for a reward.

“Oh, how I wish that were the case.” He shakes his head. “Not many would put their lives on the line for the sake of others, my boy. Especially against a Cyclops. That takes courage.”

It really wasn’t that tough. Or, well, I guess it did have an annoying gimmick where its gaze drains stats, but that was easy to handle, too. I just blinded it with a flash of light, then took its head off with a single swing, which was to be expected. This is only a rare-tier dungeon. I’m way too over-leveled for it. I need Legendary and above if I want a challenge.

Speaking of legendary dungeons, I found three more, which are huge enough as is. There are not many, only fifteen, if I recall correctly. So, with the one I finished, I’d already be more than a fourth of the way there. Obviously, I’ve not dared to go in any of the new ones I found yet. I don’t think I’m ready. Equipment-wise, at least. I have Sentry and all, but the last one proved that it’s not enough. I have to be more vigilant. Better prepared. Stronger and smarter. 

I must never let something like that happen ever again.

“I suppose you’re right.” I nod, beckoning Gwyn to come. “Anyway, we’ll be off now. The golems I gave you should be more than enough to deal with similar threats in the future. Just make sure to maintain them, alright?”

“Wait, are you sure you don’t need any—”

Before the old man can finish his sentence, he’s cut off by a loud yell that makes me hiss in a mixture of annoyance and exasperation.

“DELMAR!” The divine champion elf hollers with a frustrated scowl, sprinting toward me with her sword drawn. “COME FACE ME, YOU COWARD!”

“And that’s my cue to leave.” I tap the old man on the shoulder before running to the dungeon door as Gwyn returns to his spirit form. “Farewell!”

Vaeri gets dangerously close to slashing through me with her weird divine sword, but I manage to ram through the dungeon door with my shoulder and return to Remnant, stumbling forward. The door closes behind me and vanishes in an instant, making me sigh in relief.

“That was close,” I mutter to myself, covering my face with my hands and groaning. “I really don’t want to deal with her, man…”

Every single time. I have no idea how she does it, but she’s found me in nearly every single dungeon I’ve been to. Thankfully, right after I finished them, so I have never been forced to face her, even though I was confident enough that I’d win. I mean, honestly, she has every right to hunt me down.

And with how many times I’ve juked her, I’d be really fucking mad if I was in her place too. Admittedly, it is getting kinda funny at this point. Almost like a game. Will I be able to finish the dungeon and escape before Vaeri can stop me? The answer is yes, considering I’ve never fought her.

And as I said, I’m confident enough that I’d win if it ever came down to it. Handily, even. Especially after the massive boost I got after finishing so many dungeons.

Name: Reid Astera

Title: Titan Slayer

Age: 17

Race: Human/Leviathan Hybrid

Alignment: Chaotic Good

Level: 355 (2%)

Professions: Gardener, Chef, Teacher

Mentors: Kazuma Kiryu

Students: 5

HP: 62,500 [Regens 6250 per minute]

MP: 125,00 [Regens 10,000 per minute]

AP: 88,750 [Regens 8875 per minute]

STR: 1200 [840]

VIT: 1000 [700]

DEX: 1000 [700]

INT: 1000 [700]

WIS: 1000 [700]

CHA: 750

LUK: 400

Points: 404

[Unbreakable Will] – 1000 VIT

You become stronger the more resolute you are.

When a limb is broken or becomes unusable, its power will be equally distributed to other healthy limbs.

Only works when the user is determined

[Ultimate Precision] – 1000 DEX

From aiming a gun to doing difficult surgeries, your precision will be perfect.

[Exceptional Casting] – 500 INT

All spells can be upgraded one level beyond the maximum for every 100 INT you have.

[Master’s Reservoir] – 1000 INT

Your mana pool rivals that of master wizards

Your MP is increased by 150%

[Proficient Core] 500 – WIS

Due to continuous use, your mana core has evolved.

MP regen is doubled

[Spiritual Specialist] – 1000 WIS

When hit by magical attacks, a small percentage of the damage is absorbed into your MP instead.

You’re able to share your magic with others to empower them temporarily.

Before I dived into the Necrosidereus dungeon, I think I was level 255. I leveled up about 100 times. One hundred levels. Most of my stats are now in the four digits when none were before. Do you realize how big of a boost this is? As I am right now, I barely need my potions to handle any threat on Remnant, except for the obvious, of course.

By all means, with this incredible power, I should be more than strong enough to handle more Legendary dungeons by myself. Had I been this powerful when I was fighting the Necrosidereus, I would’ve annihilated it without having to resurrect Eero to help.

Staring at my fist, I sigh to myself as I slowly make my way home. But even so— even with this tremendous growth, I don’t feel confident about myself. After I’ve seen what Salem is capable of, I now know that all of this is just not enough. I need more power. Way more power, if I want to stand a chance.

But if all of this isn’t nearly enough, then when will I ever be close to her power? How long would it take me? Months? Years? Decades? Will I really be able to match her even after I complete every dungeon? After I run out of things to kill? I’m pretty sure I’ve already finished half the available dungeons and destroyed half the Titans on Remnant, and I’m still nowhere near her.

I knew she was strong— she’s the ultimate ‘bad guy’, the ‘demon king’ as she described herself, but she… really does feel like an unscalable mountain.

…I always thought the system was the ultimate path to power. An unrivaled instrument that’ll bring me immense strength with barely any effort. I genuinely thought that it was a cheat item that made everything way too easy. But with my recent failures, I’m not so sure anymore.

It’s either not as strong as I thought it was or…

I pause my advance, stopping on the western beach of Anima. I watch as the gentle waves roll in, shimmering under the sunlight before they crash softly against the shore. My hands clench into tight fists, and my jaw tightens with a mix of frustration and restlessness.

I’m just fucking useless.

“God…” I exhale, trying to keep my temper in check. “What the hell am I supposed to do now?”

…Fuck, I really understand what Ozpin’s going through now. After getting a taste of Salem’s power, it’s a wonder the guy never lost his mind. To think all this time, it’s just been a game from her perspective…

As I shake my head and prepare to dive into the sea, I hear someone walking on the soft sand behind me. I don’t sense any malicious intent, magic, or evil, so I slowly turn toward them, spotting a somewhat familiar figure that I don’t immediately recognize due to the large black cloak they’re wearing.

It takes me a few moments, but I identify her after she pulls the hood back, showing me her face. It’s the short faunus girl with white hair that I met a while back before I challenged my first legendary dungeon.

“Hello.” She greets me again, her tone soft and emotionless.

“You again.” I acknowledge, giving her a small smile. “What are the odds, huh?”

The girl hums in agreement as she stands beside me, looking at the horizon in front of us. Standing side by side makes me realize the height difference between us, and it’s honestly a little funny. She doesn’t even reach my chest.

She doesn’t say anything, almost content with just staying next to me. Strangely, I find her company slightly comforting. It’s kind of a vibe. Maybe it’s because I appreciate her quietness, or perhaps it’s because she’s not here to ask me for autographs or anything like that since it’s what most strangers ask for when they see me. Regardless, it’s nice.

I like the fame, but it can get annoying sometimes. It makes it a little tricky to make regular friends.

I pause and narrow my eyes, glancing at the girl with suspicion. Then again, something definitely feels off about her.

So, just to be safe, I use ‘Observe’ on her.

Name: Zenith

Title: Unbound Wanderer

Age: 25

Race: Faunus [Monkey]

Level: 84

HP: 1000

MP: N/A

AP: 15,000

STR: 191

VIT: 123

DEX: 183

INT: 100

WIS: 125

CHA: 50

LUK: 10

Of course, the tiny girl is somehow older than me.

…Huh. Aside from the bizarre name, her stats seem normal. If anything, as a hunter, she’s a little below average. Besides, her title doesn’t reveal anything that makes me think she works for Salem. I mean, I’m not entirely convinced yet, but—

“What is it?” She asks without looking at me. “Why are you staring at me?”

“Oh, um…” I rub my neck sheepishly as I look for an excuse. “It’s just uh… You know, back when we first met? I was just wondering how you were able to up and vanish so suddenly. Kinda caught me off guard.”

Instead of verbally answering me, the girl suddenly lifts off the ground, floating up a few centimeters, her large black cloak fluttering in the wind. I hum in slight intrigue as she shows me how. I guess she flew up when I wasn’t looking?

“Your Semblance is flight?” I ask, making her nod. “That’s so helpful. I imagine you wouldn’t need a Bullhead to go from kingdom to kingdom with that kind of ability.”

It probably helps a lot with expenses.

The girl nods again as she lowers herself to the ground.

“So you’ve never told me your name, Miss.” I point out, offering a handshake. “I’m Reid Astera, though you probably already knew that.”

“My name is Zenith.” She gently but firmly takes my hand. “You can call me Zen. Most people do.”

“Zenith, huh?” I let go of her much smaller hand. “Kind of an odd name. I think you’re the only person I’ve met who doesn’t follow the color rule.”

Hell, even I follow it. Kind of. Not counting my Leviathan name, ‘Reid’ is pronounced like ‘Reed’. Which is a green plant. Weird, considering my color scheme is white and blue, but I didn’t choose to name myself. Also, I don’t really care much about names.

As for ‘Astera,’ I think it’s some kind of a flower. Or close to the name of one. I remember Ruby telling me about it.

“So I’ve been told.” She says. “My guardian was eccentric.”

“Eccentric is one way to put it.” I chuckle. “So, what are you doing out here?”

Zen pauses for a moment before answering.

“Wandering.” She says. “I do not have a specific destination in mind.”

“That right…” I hum. “It sounds nice. To be free like that, I mean.”

“What about you?”

“Oh, I just had a few things to deal with in Anima.” I shrug, technically telling the truth. The dungeons are in Anima. “Nothing serious, really.”

To be honest, this dungeon spree felt a little liberating in a strange type of way.

Zen looks behind us and then at me, and although her expression doesn’t show anything, I can pick up on her confusion.

“…In the middle of the wilderness?” She questions. “I thought you were a businessman.”

“Hero first. Businessman second.” I reply with a wink. “Clearing out a few Grimm nests here and there helps make the world a little safer, don’t you think?”

She grunts in acknowledgment, becoming quiet all of a sudden. We share a nice silent moment as we stare at the horizon, and as much as I want to enjoy it, the bad thoughts slowly come back as I think about what I should be doing right now.

Should I try to extend my dungeon spree? I’ve not visited Solitas yet, so there’s bound to be a whole lot of dungeons there. Granted, it’s not as big as Anima or Sanus, but that’s still an entire continent's worth of dungeons.

I jumped a hundred levels by clearing everything here, and that’s without messing with any of the legendary tier dungeons. I could possibly jump another hundred level or at least fifty if I do the same in Solitas. Maybe then I’d be confident enough to take on the higher-tier dungeons.

Maybe then I wouldn’t be such a big fucking failure.

But I have duties here. Other responsibilities. My potion business, inventing new artifacts, creating more golems to spread around the world, and so much more. I can’t ignore these things any longer— the world is relying on me.

I really don’t know what to do.

…I miss the girls.

“What’s worrying you?”

Zen’s sudden question makes me pause in surprise, and I feel a little startled as she keeps staring into the distance. I wasn’t that obvious, was I?

“…It’s nothing,” I answer after a moment.

“So you say.” She replies, glancing at my tightly clenched fist.

I quickly relax my hand and then sigh.

“It’s uh… it’s just hero troubles.” I chuckle mirthlessly. “But it’s fine. It’ll pass. It always has. It has to.”

Some things should be kept to myself. I’ve learned to keep my mouth shut this time around.

Zen stays quiet for a few seconds before speaking up again.

“I see.” She says, leaving it at that.

I almost audibly exhale, very grateful that she’s not trying to press me into answering anything. I get she’s trying to help, and I appreciate that. I really do. But she’s a random hunter who probably has enough problems on her plate as is. What kind of person would I be if I dumped my problems on her?

I don't want to think about these things anymore, so I take a deep breath and enjoy the humid air on my skin.

“Weather sure is nice here,” I mumble, stretching my back and arms with a satisfied groan. “It’s already October, huh?”

“Here.”

“Hm?”

I glance at Zen, seeing her offering me a wooden sculpture of some sort resembling a boat. I blink in bewilderment and take it, surprised at how detailed it is. I mean, I’m no expert at wood carving, but I’ve never seen anything like this before.

“Uh…” I blink again, looking at her.

“I made it for you.” She says. “It’s a gift.”

“You made this?” I raise an eyebrow, a little impressed yet still confused. “For me? Why?”

“No reason,” Zen answers. “I thought you’d like it.”

“I mean, it looks nice.” I nod. “That just kinda came out of nowhere.”

I don’t think I ever got a gift like this. A sentimental one. First time for everything, I guess. I don’t know what her deal is, but perhaps she is a fan of some sort. Maybe she’s just a little awkward or shy. Trying to help in her own way.

…Which is why I can’t let this world wither away.

“But thanks anyway, Zen. I can tell you worked hard on it.” I give her an appreciative grin. “I promise I’ll take care of it.”

Her expressionless face breaks into a tiny smile, reminding me that despite how she comes across as a little creepy and how blank she almost always looks, she’s still very adorable. This exchange between us is unfortunately cut short as my scroll begins ringing, making me frown in annoyance.

I pull it out of my pocket. Fucking Ozpin…

“Sorry. I guess it’s time for me to go.” I tell her. “It’s been nice seeing you. I hope we’ll meet again one day.”

“I hope so as well.” Zen nods and walks back from where she came from. But right before I can swim back home, she stops in her tracks and calls my name. “Reid.”

I pause and turn my head to meet her gaze.

“There’s no shame in confiding in those you trust.” She says. “And it’s not a sin to ask others for help when you’re overwhelmed.”

I look away and frown.

“The people you surround yourself with— their hearts are full of love for you. They would do anything for you.” She adds. “For both your sake and theirs, share with them the weight you've taken on by yourself. Wouldn’t you do the same for them?”

I take a sharp breath and stare back at her, noticing the look of concern and sadness on her face. I don’t know how or why she knows these things, but instead of questioning her, I respond with something else entirely.

“I can’t,” I say. “I’m the only one who can do this.”

“Perhaps.” She replies. “But what will you lose if you try?”

I open my mouth to argue, but no words come out. Zen stares at me with an almost pleading expression before she walks away, going deeper into the forest until she’s out of my sight. I stand there in silence, almost tuning out the ringing scroll in my hand before I decide to answer it.

“Ah, Mr. Astera,” Ozpin says. “Where were you? Your friends are worried about you.”

“…I’ve been busy,” I reply quietly.

Ozpin pauses for a moment before continuing.

“I see.” He mutters, not pressing me for information. “Well, do you have a moment? I’d like to discuss with you about the Vytal Festival. And your position as a new professor.”

“Sure. I’ll drop by Beacon in a few hours.”

“Excellent,” Ozpin responds with a pleased tone. “Be seeing you.”

Silently, I end the call and send the scroll and the small wooden boat to my inventory. I stare at where Zenith went before turning away and swimming back home.

…

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– Ruby –

“Any news on Reid’s father, Ruby?” The SDC heiress asked through the scroll’s screen.

“None.” Ruby clicked her tongue, trying to enjoy her afternoon in the garden of Reid’s estate with a few snacks. “It’s like he disappeared off the face of Remnant.”

For a man that huge, he was really good at hiding. It wasn’t that surprising, admittedly, but Ruby still felt very frustrated that she hadn’t made a lick of progress in ten whole days. This situation was of utmost importance to her. She wouldn’t let anyone hurt her precious Reid and get away with it.

Granted, she still had no proof or evidence that Eero was responsible for anything, but if he had an idea, then she still needed to find him. Ask him what happened to Reid and how she could help. Ruby couldn’t stand seeing him hurt like this.

But truthfully, Ruby hadn’t been counting on finding him so easily. Realistically, how could she? He was either back in Teralos, which she couldn’t access unless Reid wanted her to, or hidden in some base her boyfriend had probably made.

For someone with a speed Semblance, covering all of Vale still wasn’t exactly the easiest thing ever. Yes, she could use all the aura potions in the world, but that was still the equivalent of trying to find a needle in a haystack if the haystack was the size of a mountain.

Ruby had her hands tied. She had no leads. No idea where Reid’s dad could be. What was she supposed to do?

Naturally, the easiest way to come in contact with Eero was through Reid, but her boyfriend had suddenly gone off the grid for the past few days. Suddenly, he’d disappeared with no way of contacting him as each time they tried to call him on his scroll, he’d be in a place where there was no signal.

Meaning he was most likely doing something in Teralos. Having adventures without her, which would’ve pissed her off had she not been worried sick about him. Yes, Reid did tend to go on these ‘dungeon sprees,’ as he called them, every once in a while, but for this long? That never happened.

And Ruby wasn’t an idiot. She knew why he was doing that— this was his way of distracting himself from whatever it was that bothered him so much. What these few days had revealed to her was how serious this situation was.

From Eero saying something about him grieving to Reid taking so much time just to distract himself. Something had happened in Teralos that had utterly broken his heart, and not knowing what it was drove Ruby mad. She wanted to help so much, but how could she without having any idea what happened?

To make matters annoying, Ruby knew that asking Reid directly would make things worse. She knew the kind of person he was—he would take on the weight of the entire world three times over before ever thinking about sharing some of that responsibility with anyone.

And admittedly, it hurt her greatly. She knew why he would do that, of course, and Ruby could see herself doing the same thing in his place, but did he have to do that? Did he really have to suffer alone in silence? Did he not realize how much it hurt her? How much it hurt everyone around him?

She loved him. She loved him so damn much. Ruby was willing to do anything for him, but gods, did he get on her nerves. That idiot.

“Reid must be hiding him, then,” Weiss said, coming to the same conclusion. “Likely in Teralos.”

“Yeah, probably.” Ruby agreed. “Meaning there’s no way to get to him without Reid.”

“This could be a problem.” The heiress muttered. “What about Reid? Has he responded to your messages yet?”

“Nope.” The younger girl shook her head. “I mean, if he responded to my messages, he’d respond to yours too, wouldn’t he?”

“I suppose.” Weiss sighed. “Well, I guess we’ll just have to wait. I’ll return to training now. I’m confident enough in our abilities, but arrogance won’t do us good. I wouldn’t want to disrespect our rivals in the Vytal tournament.”

“Got it.” Ruby smiled. “Good luck! I’m rooting for you! You girls are gonna crush the competition!”

Weiss smiled back and waved goodbye before ending the call. Ruby then exhaled and threw her scroll away, lying on her back as she munched on a strawberry. She’d go train with them, but she didn’t feel like it. Lazing around in the mansion was so much more fun.

Admittedly, it was becoming a problem. Ruby was starting to get complacent, but it was really because she enjoyed training with Reid, especially. Yes, he was very harsh, but honestly, she liked it even more than she was training with Uncle Qrow.

…Not in a lewd way, even though she liked it when he went rough on her during sexy times, but that was different! She liked the harsh training because she started to enjoy challenging battles, and Reid was the toughest there was.

Ruby closed her eyes.

Even with how fast she was, how skilled and strong she had become, he was still stronger than her. It was motivating how each time she measured up to him, she’d see the progress she’d made and how she’d pushed him to be more powerful as well.

They were helping each other to be better versions of themselves.

Ruby wondered if he ever felt the same way.

…Honestly, a nap in this cool weather wouldn’t be so bad. Who needed air conditioning with a gentle breeze like this? It reminded her of Patch a little. She used to take naps during picnics with her dad and Yang. Right after filling her tummy with cookies and strawberries. Even the sun wasn’t annoying her all that much.

Seconds away from falling asleep, Ruby felt something was blocking the sun, prompting her to open her eyes and spot Reid looking down at her with a grin.

“Had a nice nap?”

Ruby leaped up in surprise and relief, having missed him for the past ten days, as she tackled him in a hug. Reid laughed and spun her around, clearly equally happy to see her again.

“I missed you!” She declared, giving him several smooches on his cheeks and jaw before gently hitting him on the chest. “Jerk! How could you make me worry like that?!”

“Sorry, sorry.” He chuckled, putting her down. “You know me, Rubes. Saving people across space and time. Nothing new.”

“Yeah, well, how about you take me with you next time, huh?!” She pouted. “It’s boring here!”

“Haha, maybe next time.” He said, patting her on the head before embracing her tightly. “God, I missed you so much, you know?”

“You better have.” Ruby giggled, returning the hug. “What kind of boyfriend would you be if you didn’t miss your girlfriend?”

“The worst ever.”

“Exactly.” She agreed. “…Please don’t do it again.”

“Huh?”

“Disappearing that long without even texting or anything.” She explained, backing off to look him in the eyes. “Everyone was so worried about you.”

Reid paused before replying.

“Why should I?” He blinked in confusion before smirking confidently. “Come on, it’s me! I wouldn’t let anything—”

“Reid.” Ruby cut him off.

Reid stared at her for a few moments before his confident expression changed into one of mild remorse.

“…Yeah, you’re right.” He said. “I’m sorry. I won’t let it happen again.”

“Good.” She smiled. “Now, you better tell me all about your adventures that you went on alone. Without me.”

“Sure, sure.” He sighed in exasperation. “Let me just take a shower first. I stink.”

“I don’t mind,” Ruby said with a matter-of-fact tone. “You always smell nice to me anyway.”

“First of all, I mind, so I’m going to shower.” He replied, walking toward the mansion. “Second, that’s a little weird to say to somebody.”

“You’d say the same thing to me.” She pointed out as she followed him.

“No, I wouldn’t.”

“Lies!” Ruby called out boisterously. “My female pheromones are too powerful for you to resist!”

“That’s not how it works.” He disagreed.

“It is. I read it in a biology book.” Ruby puffed her chest proudly, entering the mansion beside him. “Maybe you should try to be as well-read as I. Also, it’s extra true for you cuz you have a super sense of smell.”

“Ruby—”

“Admit it~” She teased. “You are a slave to my feminine charm~”

“What’s with you today?” He looked at her with a raised eyebrow. “Real talkative, aren’t you?”

“I’ve always been talkative.”

“Yeah, about weapons, not smells.”

“Yeah, yeah, whatever. Anyway—” Ruby entered the bathroom with him. “I think you smell like vanilla and lavender.”

“What?”

“And maybe ash? Or smoke. Probably cuz of how much you like burning things. And also a dash of the ocean. Weirdly, no fishy smell.” Ruby wanted to laugh as she saw the embarrassed look on her boyfriend's face as she went into detail. Good. That’s what he gets for worrying her so much. “What about me? What do I smell like? Is it good?”

“Can you stop?” He frowned, taking off his shirt. “I’m taking my shower. Get out.”

“Well, I’m taking one with you.” She undressed, throwing her clothes aside as she hopped into the shower with him, pressing her breasts against his chest. “Now answer my question, bozo!”

Reid sighed deeply before begrudgingly answering her.

“…Strawberries, freshly baked cookies, a hint of iron…” He listed off. “And obviously, roses.”

“Aaaand?”

He was visibly annoyed by her antics, but he knew she would continue to be annoying until he cooperated.

“And yes, I like how you smell.” He admitted. “Happy?”

“Very.” Ruby nodded, smirking smugly at him.

Reid stared at her in silence for a few moments as neither of them acknowledged his hardened member poking her belly.

“I’m going to fuck your brains out now.”

“I would be disappointed if you didn’t.” But she wasn’t intimidated as she gave him a wink. “I told you you can’t resist me~”

Before long, Ruby found herself loudly moaning his name as he lifted her leg and took her, thrusting his huge cock into her and reshaping her insides. After so many days without contact, both lovers were more pent up than they had been in a long time. And so enjoyed every second of their love-making even more than usual.

With her beloved taking the lead, of course. She loved the rough treatment, after all. Why would she try to frustrate him so much otherwise? However, at the end of the day, one fact would remain, and although neither of them would verbally acknowledge it, she knew it would annoy him for the next few weeks.

Ruby had finally defeated Reid in his own game.

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– Cinder –

Impatiently waiting for the mansion’s owner next to the nervous Emerald, Cinder huffed in frustration. She was truly beginning to regret taking Astera’s offer. Not only had he put her in this humiliating outfit he called a ‘French Maid dress,’ but he’d made the insufferable mercenary her direct boss. She couldn’t believe it.

Was he out of his mind? Titania, a head maid? All that bitch was good at was killing and clogging her useless metal leg with blood. Why the hell should she order Cinder around? What right did she have? A weakling cripple like her should be honored to be polishing Cinder’s boots with her tongue.

At least Cinder had genuine experience in doing housework and chores, as much as she hated to admit it. She should’ve been made Titania’s superior, not the other way around. Gods, it pissed her off just thinking about it. To make matters even worse, Titania was having the time of her life. She’d make Cinder do most of the work and spend every waking moment mocking her and criticizing her for every mistake she made as if she had nothing better to do.

…But even then, this was still better than starving and freezing in Solitas. Besides, she’d been prepared for the worst when she had come here, and when she accepted Astera’s offer, it wasn’t for the free meals, salary, and place to sleep, even though those were nice.

It was purely for power. Power so she could one day be free from this life of servitude she’d led her whole life. If that meant having to deal with an annoyance like Titania, then Cinder was willing to deal with it for as long as she physically could.

Contrary to what idiots like Watts and the deceased Hazel thought, Cinder knew how to be patient and bide her time. She’d worked under Salem for years without ever smelling a crumb of power. She could do the same under Astera.

But she digressed. She’d been told by the blond girl to wait for Astera in the living room for some reason, and Cinder had a decent guess as to why he’d want her. It had been ten days since their first meeting, so now that he was back, he probably wanted information about Salem.

After their first meeting, he’d up and vanished for a while, and Cinder had felt curious enough to ask. The smaller girl, Ruby, had told her that he had a tendency to go around Remnant undercover to clear out dozens of dangerous Grimm nests before coming back.

Which she had found incredibly odd. Why would he do that? Didn’t he have those Golem things to do such a pointless task for him? And why undercover? Wouldn’t he gain positive publicity otherwise?

To tell the truth, Cinder thought Astera was strange. And although she wouldn’t admit it to anyone, she found him ever so slightly fascinating. For a while, Cinder had thought it was just a front he put on to hide his greed and hunger for power. Did he truly think he was some kind of savior or a hero? Was he really that naive?

It was pathetic. A little intriguing, yes, but still pathetic. Someone like him should know that the only thing that mattered in this world was one’s own strength.

However, that ultimately didn’t change anything. Whether he was sincere or not, she was still working under him until she got her hands on this bizarre magic of his. Then, she’d get his trust, backstab him, then take all of his power. After that, Cinder would be unstoppable. Not even Salem or Ozpin would be able to threaten her.

As Cinder waited in silence for a few more minutes, the door opened, and Astera walked in—finally.

Her satisfied expression immediately disappeared as she saw Titania beside him, staring smugly at Cinder and Emerald. Cinder scowled, but before she could say anything, the former killer-for-hire gestured for her to do her job as a maid and properly greet her master as she’d been… ‘trained’ to do.

Cinder swallowed her pride and stood up. Alongside Emerald, the two women put one foot back, raised their already short skirts, and bowed respectfully.

“W-welcome home, Master Reid,” Cinder said, barely composing herself for this humiliating ritual. “We’re honored to be in your presence.”

Cinder wanted to die.

“Huh?” Astera blinked, his voice filled with confusion. “Um, yeah, thanks. What’s this?”

“W-we’re greeting you,” Cinder replied as if it wasn’t obvious enough. Isn’t that what he was asking for anyway? “Tita— I mean, the Head Maid told us that, as the Titan Slayer and owner of this estate, we’re to show you the utmost respect.”

“Ah…” Reid cleared his throat. Almost awkwardly so. “Yeah, you really don’t have to. She doesn’t do that. Why should you?”

“What?” Cinder raised her head, staring at Reid. Now she’s confused. “She doesn’t?”

“Nope. I never asked her to, and I wouldn’t ask that of you either.” He shrugged.

Cinder turned her gaze to Titania, who was red in the face as she tried her hardest not to laugh. Cinder’s own face turned red out of anger and embarrassment. This fucking bitch… she’d sworn up and down that doing this was mandatory. Now, she looked like an absolute fool in front of him.

As she was moments away from blowing up on the crippled whore, Reid took the seat in front of her and immediately drew her attention to him, making her take a deep, calming breath, doing her best to ignore Titania’s quiet snickering. This wasn’t over. She’d have her revenge eventually.

“So anyway—” Reid started. “How have you two been? Getting used to the place?”

Cinder took a moment and almost didn’t answer such a pointless question before deciding to act nice for now.

“We’ve been well, I suppose.” She responded, dropping the gentle maid act Titania had put her up to. “I can’t complain.”

She could, but all that was really bothering her was Titania’s existence.

“That’s good to hear.” He glanced at Emerald. “What about you?”

“Oh, um, same thing.” Em nodded, looking surprised that he’d ask her directly. So was Cinder. Why would he care about a street rat’s opinion? “Work’s been pretty simple, and Ruby and Yang are nice to us.”

“They better be.” He grinned. “Anyway, you probably know why you’re here.”

“Salem.” Cinder guessed.

“Correct.” He confirmed. “Truthfully, I’ve actually met her recently.”

Cinder paused. He’d met her?

“And you’re still alive?” She wondered out loud.

“I’m surprised myself.” He chuckled. “So what can you tell me about her?”

For a moment, Cinder hesitated and even thought about feeding him lies in case… Salem somehow knew of her betrayal. But she knew that the moment Reid figured out she’d been lying to him, he’d kick her out immediately, and she’d lose her opportunity to gain power.

Without his protection, Salem would kill her because something told Cinder that the Immortal Witch wouldn’t care for her show of loyalty. This was the time to choose sides. Should she remain with Salem and hope she’d show her a shred of mercy? Or take the safer option and join up with Reid Astera in hopes of one day backstabbing him and taking his power for herself?

Cinder didn’t really have to think too hard. The choice was obvious.

“Salem has the Summer Maiden.” She revealed, making Reid’s eyes widen. “She’s currently with Arthur Watts on standby near Vacuo. They’ll be trying to take the Relic of Destruction during the spring of next year.”

“You don’t say…” Astera leaned back, frowning in thought. “Huh. She is taking her sweet time, isn’t she? Spring of next year? What’s she waiting for?”

“I don’t know the details, and there’s likely more than one factor, but I know one thing,” Cinder said. “The day she takes the relic is the day Thanatos destroys the kingdom of Vacuo.”

“Thanatos, huh? Also known as the Eater of Worlds.” Reid hummed. “That’s the oldest known Titan, isn’t it?”

“Yes. A Death Worm larger than a skyscraper.” She confirmed. “I’ve never seen it myself, but it’s far stronger than any of the Titans you’ve faced.”

“That could be a problem,” Reid muttered. “Do you know how Salem is planning to wake it up?”

“I don’t.” Cinder shook her head. “I don’t even know where it’s hiding.”

The Titan Slayer remained quiet for a few moments, processing the information. He didn’t exactly look pleased, but everything Cinder had said was the truth. Or rather, what she knew. There’s a chance that Salem had changed or tweaked her plans since her former subordinate’s desertion.

“Right…” He exhaled. “I’ll be sure to relay this to Theodore. Anything else?”

“Yes. There’s a spy in Beacon.”

“Oh?” Astera raised a brow.

“I don’t know much about them. Salem mostly kept it to herself.” Cinder quickly added. “I just know that whoever they are, they have a Grand Soul.”

“Oh.” His eyes widened. “That’s… okay, wow. For real? Since when have they been at Beacon?”

“Since the start of the year.” She answered. “Before you ask, I don’t know what their Semblance is, but she likely sent them there to look for the relic. Salem seems convinced it’s somewhere in Beacon and that the spy was the best for the job.”

“Yeah, makes sense. That’s good information. Thank you, Cinder.” He nodded. She didn’t know why he was thanking her; wasn’t that what they agreed on anyway? “Anything else? Any schemes she may be cooking up? A weapon she’s working on? Allies I should be worried about?”

“Not that I know of,” Cinder replied before pausing. She put a hand on her chin, frowning in thought. “Hm, actually…”

“Yeah?”

“There’s this… I hesitate to call ‘man’ who visits her every once in a while. He looks similar to Salem. Snow white skin, red eyes…” She recounted. “He looked like a humanoid Grimm. He spoke like a human, held himself like one, and looked like one. But I’m certain he isn’t. Not even in the same sense as Salem.”

“Do you know his name?”

“No, but Salem once called him a ‘parasite’.” Cinder said. “That’s as much as I know.”

“No magical knowledge to share?”

“No. Salem strictly kept it to herself.” Cinder shook her head. “Maybe it’s still not obvious to you, but Salem never liked sharing what she knew. Sorry to disappoint.”

“No, no, that’s plenty of information. I’m satisfied.” Reid nodded with a smile. “Thank you, Cinder. Seriously.”

“I’m just doing my part of the deal,” Cinder muttered before sighing. He was weird. “So? Am I free to go?”

“Yup.” He said with a wave. “You can take the rest of the day off, too.”

Cinder said nothing, only nodding in acknowledgment as she stood up and walked away with the silent Emerald in tow. She glared at the smirking Titania as she went past her, but before she exited the living room, Astera stopped her with one final question.

“One more thing.” He said. “Is there a female monkey faunus that works for Salem?”

“Pardon?” Cinder blinked.

“You know, tiny, short white hair and red eyes?” He described. “She wears a large black cloak.”

“…No. I’ve never seen or heard of her.” Cinder shook her head, a little confused at his question's specificity.

“Right…” For some reason, Astera looked relieved. “That’s all, Cinder. Thank you for your time.”

Cinder stared at him for a few more moments before exiting the living room. She didn’t know what that was about, but at least she got the day off out of this. She didn’t know what she could do with her free time, seeing that she was not allowed to leave the mansion, but…

… Sunbathing in this weather didn’t sound so bad.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

– Reid –

“A spy?” Ozpin’s eyes widened. “Here?”

“Yeah.” I nod. “And she said they had a Grand Soul too. So we’re not dealing with the average spy here.”

“Goodness…” The Headmaster of Beacon leans back on his chair. “To think she’d infiltrate our ranks so easily…”

“You’re fine,” I tell him. “Whoever they are, they’ve not found the way to the chamber underground. And now we know for sure that there’s a spy, we’ll easily be able to counter them.”

The biggest problem here is their status. Now, as I said before, nothing here can actually threaten me besides Salem herself and the high-tier Titans, but those with Grand Souls aren’t exactly like the rest of the human fighters on Remnant.

First, they have an absurd Aura pool compared to their peers. Even a veteran hunter with a hundred years of experience pales in comparison to a newbie with a Grand Soul. The difference is vast, but even then, that’s not enough to pose a challenge for me.

What’s actually worrying is the kind of Semblance they might have. A Grand Soul’s Semblance is so strong that it goes against the rule of individuality and becomes hereditary. For example, Nicolas Schnee had a grand soul, which is why all his descendants have the same semblance.

And I might hear someone say that while Glyphs are very powerful, they don’t compare to what I can do with magic, and that’s true, but here’s the thing. The Glyphs Weiss and Winter can cast can be considered knock-off versions of what Nicolas could do. Theirs are inherently far weaker than his.

If Weiss’s current limit, even after training under me for months, were only a handful of Arma Gigas, Nicolas could summon an army of five hundred in an instant. That’s the difference.

Naturally, I’m still confident I can take them on, whoever they may be, but I must be careful here. Figure out their Semblance and its weakness, then take them out as fast as I can. Large aura pool or not, I can still tear them apart faster than they realize it.

The fact that they’re in Beacon around so many students is the biggest issue right now.

“I suppose you’re right.” Ozpin nods. “How fortunate. The news came at a perfect time.”

“How come?”

“Did you forget? The Vytal Festival is only days away.” He tilts his head. “And you said you wanted to be a professor after it’s done, didn’t you?”

“Ah…”

…That completely slipped my mind. Fuck, that’s gonna take too much of my time. Being a professor, that is. But I already promised to do it.

Fuuuuck…

“You seem hesitant,” Ozpin says.

“Uh, yeah…” I sigh. “Thing is, I… met Salem recently.”

“What?!” His eyes widen as he stands up. “Salem?!”

“Calm down, nothing happened,” I add. “It’s just… seeing her, I–”

I take a deep breath.

“…I felt helpless,” I confess. “I knew she was strong. She was dangerous. But that? What the fuck am I supposed to do against that, Oz?”

Should I really waste my time playing teacher when there’s a monster like that running around? Is that what I should be doing? Is that the right thing to do? I don’t know, and it’s driving me nuts. What should a hero do in this situation?

I’ve been training the girls in case they get targeted. So they can take care of themselves in case I’m not there to help. But at this point, is it really wise to create more openings by getting more students? I’d have to train them from the ground up all over again. Can I really afford that?

Ozpin says nothing.

“All the progress I thought I made feels pointless now,” I admit. “She does feel unbeatable. That there’s nothing we can do.”

He frowns almost sorrowfully.

“How do you do it?” I ask, my tone unintentionally desperate. “You’ve been in this hell for thousands of years. How did you handle it, knowing you’d never stand a chance?”

“Reid…”

At his look of sympathy and understanding, I exhale and shake my head.

“…Nevermind. Look, I’ll do the job.” I say before he can speak. “Someone has to find the spy and get rid of them, and I’m the only one who can do it.”

I can’t risk Beacon students or staff doing something that dangerous. We know nothing about the spy and what their Semblance could be, and as much as I trust Wildberry, it’s better to be safe than sorry. I can return to my real work once they’re out of the picture.

“…I understand.” Ozpin nods. “Though, I suppose there’s something else you need to do first, yes?”

“Yeah,” I confirm. “It’s about time I got rid of the pig.”

I’ve been putting that off because he and his little slave market had stopped completely. But Roman confirmed that the big auction will be happening during the Vytal Festival. I don’t know where exactly, but locations are easy to find with thousands of golems patrolling Remnant 24/7.

“Have you figured out who it is yet?”

“No, but I have suspicions,” I say. A man with immense political power like, say, a councilman. “I’ll have his head on a pike soon enough.”

“I would like him alive, Mr. Astera,” Ozpins says as he adjusts his glasses. “He must face prosecution first.”

“He’s gonna get executed anyway.” I snort. “I, or, well, the Black Phantom, might as well save you the trouble.”

“Mr. Astera—”

“No, Oz.” I cut him off. “He will die.”

Ozpin doesn’t argue, but his disapproving stare tells me that he’s not okay with that plan. Sorry, but I’m not willing to spare someone like him. He who would take the freedom of the innocent for profit deserves none himself.

After that?

I’ll hang that spy with his own innards.