Chapter 7: The Briefing
Reaper stood at the edge of Beacon Academy and looked off into the distance where Vale City stands. He's still adjusting to the concept of him being on another world for multiple reasons. One, it's a stupid idea to even think about as it's mostly a concept seen in a lot of anime. Two, it's a weird situation to be in period as who can say that they woke up in a random world that isn't Earth?
His whole situation was both weird and frustrating. But Reaper knew what he had to do. He needs allies more than enemies and he's hoping he can make Ozpin an Ally. From what information he's gathered from history books and based on what he understands Beacon Academy is, Ozpin has a lot of influence and resources. Something that would be very helpful in the long run.
While he thought about his current situation, he couldn't help but think about Earth. His world was filled with numerous global issues. Null Sector and Talon are major ones. He then thinks about the one man he hated for so long. Jack Morrison, otherwise known as Soldier 76. They're rivalry cost Overwatch everything.
It was his reckless actions in Venice that caused Blackwatch to be revealed, and it was his rebellion against Jack the day Overwatch headquarters exploded that nearly cost them their lives. He realizes now that his actions were misguided. All it took was for him to finally be at deaths door to finally see it. Maybe this new world can give him a source of redemption despite how ridiculous he thinks the concept is. He's crossed the line and can never go back.
As his eyes dance across the distant city of Vale, he wonders if he should pay Vale a visit. Could be a way to scope out his surroundings beyond just the Academy. He can do that later; he needs to prepare himself for this test Ozpin has for him. Whenever that happens, he doesn't know. He turns from the view and walks back into Beacon Academy.
As he returns to the main area of the Academy, he passes more students who talk amongst themselves about numerous topics. School, hobbies, interests. Typical things. But then they noticed Reaper and their topics changed. They started talking about him and it was clear they were curious and scared to a degree. Like always, Reaper doesn't care in the slightest. To him, it's just mindless gossip.
Reaper turns a corner and nearly bumped into Glynda but they both stopped the second they saw each other.
"Oh, there you are." Glynda acknowledged.
"Need me for something?" Reaper asks.
"The headmaster requested that I guide you to his office. He has a mission for you." Glynda explained.
So, he's being sent on a mission as a test huh? Should be simple. He's been on many assignments in his time in Overwatch and Talon.
"Lead the way." is all Reaper said next.
Glynda nods and guides Reaper down the hall towards their shared destination. The walk to the headmaster's office wasn't eventful. The quiet walk gave Reaper he time to think to himself. He was curious what this mission was about. Maybe Ozpin needs someone dead. Wouldn't be the first. But it would be an odd test.
He's hoping that this mission is all he needs to do to gain Ozpin's trust. He doubts it, but a man can hope. He imagines he'll have to put in a little more effort before he's trusted by Ozpin. They eventually reach the elevator and walk inside. The trip up was a silent as the walk they had but once they arrived, the two stepped out of the elevator and walked into Ozpin's office.
Ozpin was sitting at his desk with a mug in his hand. He takes notice of the two's arrival and takes one sip of his drink before placing the mug on his desk. Reaper and Glynda walk towards Ozpin's desk and stand in front of it.
"What's the mission?" Reaper asks, getting straight to the point.
"There has been an increase in Human on Faunus violence in a village to the east and the White Fang plan to stop by this village soon." Ozpin briefs. "I need you alongside Glynda to venture to this village and prevent the White Fang from being harmed."
So, a protection mission. Not his most favorite missions, but if this will help him claim Ozpin's trust so be it. But when Ozpin mentioned the White Fang, his mind wondered back to when he was in the library gathering information. The White Fang, from what he understood, is a peaceful organization whose goal is equal rights for Faunus. He never paid too much attention to activist groups back on Earth, but the White Fang appears to be a major group and very popular among the Faunus population.
"When do I ship out?" Reaper asks.
"As soon as possible would be ideal. I'm not sure how long it'll take for the White Fang to reach this village." Ozpin answered. "There will be a Bullhead waiting for you at the landing zone. Good luck."
Reaper nods before he turned away from Ozpin and walked towards the elevator. Glynda turned on her heel and followed him.