———
Remnant; Time: 2017, August 13th, 6:15 A.M. Location: Dining Room.
——
Sterling was one of the first to wake up among all the other teens there. Wearily opening & closing before waking up fully and seeing Nora Valkyrie fill their view.
"Wake up, Lazy butt!" Nora says as she dashes to the side, Lie Ren gets up with a groan as Nora hounds him. "It's morning! It's morning! It's morning! It's morning~!" Nora sings in a sing-song tone.
Lie Ren sighs again & now we see him brushing his teeth in the restroom while Nora continues to talk.
"I can't believe we've been at Beacon for a full twenty-four hours! Not that I thought we'd get kicked out or anything, I mean, you're the perfect student & I'm... Well, I'm me! But it's just crazy, Ya know?" Nora says in a happy tone.
Time: 6:31 A.M.
The room changes to the ballroom, Where the two are readying themselves. Nora is brushing her hair & still chattering while Ren is tightening the strings on his sleeping bag.
"We've been friends for soooooooo long! What are the odds we'd still be together? Well, Not "together-together..." Not that I'm not saying that you're not handsome; You are handsome, But that'd just be weird, Right?" Nora said with a happy tone.
Time: 6:39 A.M.
Again as the two are in the middle of eating their breakfast, Nora having a pancake hanging from her mouth as she is still talking.
Nora muffled through her food. "Right! What was I thinking? But still, I hope we end up on the same team together!" Nora says, As she slurps up the rest of her pancakes. "Oohhhh! We should come up with some sort of plan, To make sure we end up on the same team together! What if we bribe the headmistress? No, That won't work. She has the school." Nora exclaims.
Time: 6:45 A.M.
Again as the two are readying themselves in the locker room, Ren is loading StormFlower & Nora is still talking.
"I know! We'll have some sort of signal! Like a distress signal!" Gasps. "A secret signal so we can find each other in the forest! Can you imitate a sloth?" Nora asks.
Ren finally replies. "Nora?" Ren said. "Yes, Ren?" Nora says, As Ren sheaths his weapons in his sleeves. "I don't think sloths make a lot of noise." Nora thinks about this for a moment. "That's why it's perfect! No one will suspect we're working together!" Nora says, As Ren is smiling & shuts his locker. "Come on, Nora. Let's go." Ren says, As Nora continues. "Not "Together-together..."" Nara says, as she then giggles.
Time: 6:57 A.M.
Ren heads out while a skipping Nora follows, Passing Ruby & Yang as they are busy equipping themselves with their weapons.
"Wonder what those two are so worked up about?" Ruby says. "Oh, Who knows? So, You seem awfully chipper this morning!" Yang said.
"Yep! No more awkward small talk Or "Getting-to-know-you" stuff. Today, I get to let my sweetheart do the talking." Ruby says as she strokes Crescent Rose, She sighs happily.
"Well, Remember, Ruby, you're not the only one going through initiation. If you wanna grow up, You're gonna have to meet new people & learn to work together." Yang says.
Ruby sighs in frustration. "You sound like Dad!" Ruby shoves her weapon into the locker. "Okay, First of all: What does meeting new people have to do with fighting? And secondly: I don't need people to help me grow up! I drink milk!"
"But what about when we form teams?" Yang asks, And Ruby was suddenly nervous. "Um, I don't know, I... I'll just be on your team or something..." Ruby says nervously.
Yang brought her hair around her shoulder & started to stroke it. "Maybe you should try being on someone else's team?" Yang says questionably, Then Ruby asks. "My dear sister Yang, Are you implying that you do not wish to be on the same team as me?"
"What? No! Of course I do! I just thought... I don't know, Maybe it would help you... Break out of your shell!" Yang says, As Ruby was somewhat outraged. "What the-?! I don't need to 'break out of my shell!' That's absolutely–"
"Ridiculous!" Jane suddenly walked in between the sisters, Holding a map & looking lost. "There's no way I put my gear in Locker 636 yesterday! I would've remembered having to count that high! Why does this have to happen today?" Jane said.
Jane passes Weiss & Pyrrha as they ready themselves at their lockers.
"So, Pyrrha, have you given any thought to whose team you'd like to be on? I'm sure everyone must be eager to unite with such a strong, Well-known individual as yourself!" Weiss asks.
"Hmm... I'm not quite sure. I was planning on letting the chips fall where they may." Pyrrha says. "Well... I was thinking maybe we could be on a team together." Weiss says. "Well, That sounds grand!" Pyrrha said. "Great!" Weiss said excitedly.
The background disappears a bit into a thundercloud as Weiss adopts a scheming pose & manic smile in her head.
———
Remnant; Time: August 13th, 7:10 A.M. Location: Beacon Cliff Launch Pads.
——
The Beacon Cliff, Overlooking a forest, where several students – some old, some new, and some just barely unseen — are standing on silver tiles in front of a mug-holding Professor Ophelia & Glynda with her tablet.
"For years, You have trained to become warriors, and today, your abilities will be evaluated in the Emerald Forest," Ophelia says.
"Now, I'm sure many of you have heard rumors about the assignment of "teams." Well, Allow us to put an end to your confusion. Each of you will be given teammates... Today." Glynda continued.
"What? Ohhh..." Ruby mutters. "These teammates will be with you for the rest of your time here at Beacon. So it is in your best interest to be paired with someone with whom you can work well." Ophelia says, And Ruby groans.
"That being said, The first person you make eye contact with after landing will be your partner for the next four years." Ophelia continued to say, As the shock expression mirrors Ruby's world cracked like glass & falling apart. "Whaaat?!" Ruby finished saying.
Nora leaned toward Ren. "See? I told you~!" Nora said, As Ren just smiled softly.
"After you've partnered up, Make your way to the northern end of the forest. You will meet opposition along the way. Do not hesitate to destroy everything in your path... Or you will die..." Ophelia says in a serious tone, As Jane laughs nervously & then gulps loudly.
"You will be monitored & graded through the duration of your initiation, But our instructors will not intervene. You will find an abandoned temple at the end of the path containing several relics. Each pair must choose one and return to the top of the cliff. We will regard that item, As well as your standing, and grade you appropriately. Are there any questions?" Ophelia said.
Jane raised his hand. "Yeah… Umm, Sir..?" Jane says nervously. "Good! Now, Take your positions." Ophelia continued saying not listening or just not hearing Jane.
Each person assumes a striking pose on their designated tile. Nora sinks into a deep crouch, Her body poised like a coiled spring ready to unleash energy, while Ren stands confidently, brandishing his weapon with an air of determination, as if he's ready to conquer any challenge that comes his way. His weapons, Yang raises her fists, Ruby readies her body, and Jaune is still raising his hand. As Sterling was to her right, Ready for this initiation.
"Uh, Sir? I've got, Umm... A question." She misses the tile under Weiss rising up into a springboard, Rocketing into the air and over the forest, as the platforms activate down the line. "So, This landing... Strategy thing... Uh, Wha-what is it? You're, like, dropping us off or something?" Jane asked, Still nervous.
"No. You will be falling." Ophelia said, As to Jane's right, Sterling made sure to use sign language to tell Pyrrha to catch Jane & Pyrrha nodded.
Jane is missing more students being thrown. "Oh, uh, I see... So, like, did you hand out parachutes for us?" Jane continued to ask. "No. You will be using your own "Landing strategy." Ophelia said, As Jane was still not seeing an excited Nora & Ren getting launched. "Uh-huh... Yeah." Jane says.
At her turn, Yang winks at her younger sister, puts on a pair of aviators, and flies off with a "Woo-hoooooooo!" A second before Ruby joins her in the air.
"So, What exactly is a landing strategYYY!..." She asks this part just when he finally has to get hurled with the cloud of students now making their way down into the forest below under the eyes of the teachers. Ophelia, For her part, simply takes a sip of her drink.
Sterling was the one & was yet to be launched. "Well, That was a bit funny." Sterling snickered. As then a sharp intrusion shattered the stillness [Play Siren Type: ASC T-1287], His Pip-Pad blared an urgent warning, its siren cutting through the tranquility like a knife.
"Warning! Unknown teleportations in progress! Teleportations on the North-East of Anima!" Pixella Schnee said from Sterling's Pip-Pad, Her voice soft & young.
Sterling then said. "Well… That's new… So, Ophelia. I'll be taking my new team after this initiation." To this, Ophelia & Glynda nodded. "Also, No need to launch me," Sterling said.
———
Remnant; Time: August 13th, 11:26 A.M. Location: Beacon's Amphitheater.
——
"Russell Thrush. Cardin Winchester. Dove Bronzewing. Sky Lark." The screen of the auditorium shows each of their profiles as the boys are lined up for the applauding audience to see, As Ophelia continues. "The four of you retrieved the black bishop pieces. From this day forward, You will work together as Team CRDL, led by... Cardin Winchester!"
The audience gives one more wave of ovation, While nine students walk up to the stage to take their places in front of the headmistress as their faces fill the screen.
"For this next team, It will be "Special" Sterling Schnee. Ruby Rose. Blake Belladonna. Yang Xiao Long. Weiss Schnee. Nora Valkyrie. Pyrrha Nikos. Jane Arc. Lie Ren. From this day forward, You will work together as a Team RWBY S. JNPR, Led by Sterling Schnee & Ruby Rose." Ophelia says, As Amid the clapping, Nora laughs & hugs Ren.
"Huh? L-Led by...? Me?" Sterling said to himself. 'Huh… I thought Ruby or Jane would still be the leader… Well, Ruby is my Co-Leader.' Sterling said in his mind. "Congratulations, Young Schnee & Young Rose," Ophelia says to us. Yang goes over to hug her sister, As Weiss comes to Sterling & hugs Sterling.
"I'm so proud of you!" Yang said as she hugged Ruby.
Amid the last round of cheers. "It looks like things are shaping up to be an... Interesting year." Ophelia softly muttered to herself.
———
Remnant; Time: 11:52 A.M. Location: Team RWBY S. JNPR's Dormroom.
——
After leaving the Amphitheater, The teams left for their dormrooms & the members of Team RWBY S. JNPR settled into their new dorm room. A sense of camaraderie hung in the air. The room was spacious, With three bunk beds lining one wall with two normal beds & a common area filled with three couches and two tables.
Sterling stood at the forefront, His expression serious yet excited. "Alright, Ladies & Gentlemen." He began, His voice steady & commanding. "We have a mission before you all say anything, It's Semi-Unofficial, you'll all still be paid." Sterling explains to his new team.
Ruby perked up, Her silver eyes sparkling with curiosity. "What's the mission, Sterling? Are we going on a hunt already?"
Weiss crossed her arms, A skeptical look on her face. "Let's not get ahead of ourselves, Ruby. We just got assigned to our teams. Shouldn't we focus on training first?"
Nora bounced eagerly on her feet, A wide grin spreading across her face. "I'm ready for anything! Let's do it!"
Pyrrha, Standing beside her, nodded in agreement. "We should hear him out first. If it's a mission, It must be important."
Sterling felt a rush of warmth at the support of his teammates. "Ok.. ok. First, Do you all understand the mission ranking system?" Sterling asks his team.
Ruby, Yang, Nora, And Jane shook their head as the other new or at least understood it. "This mission is classified into four tiers: Low to High D Ranks are for Huntsmen in training, Or Low C Ranks if they have the skills for it, usually First & Second Years. Low to High C Ranks & Low B Ranks are for the Third Years & Fourth Years & New Huntsmen. High B Ranks & Low A Ranks are for New & Experienced Huntsmen. And lastly, High A Ranks & Low to High S Ranks are for Experienced & Highly Experienced Huntsmen, Or even a Team of Highly Experienced Huntsmen." Sterling explained the Mission Ranking System to his team.
"Each Rank represents the difficulty & the expected level of danger involved. Our mission today is a High C Rank mission, Which is Search & Rescue. We'll be leaving for the Northeast of Anima." Sterling said.
Ruby's eyes widened, A mix of excitement & determination shining through. "High C Rank mission? That sounds manageable! What do we need to do?"
Sterling felt the energy in the room shift as Ruby's enthusiasm ignited a spark within the team. He could sense the determination radiating from each member, And that gave him confidence. "For our High C Rank mission, We're tasked with locating & rescuing civilians who are missing in the Northeast of Anima," Sterling says, Tho Sterling can see Lie Ren in a questioning way & to that, Sterling winked.
"Before you all go & grab your weapons, Listen to this…" Sterling plays a recording. [Play Siren Type: ASC T-1287], His Pip-Pad blared an urgent warning. "Warning! Unknown teleportations in progress! Teleportations on the North-East of Anima!"
"Unknown teleportations? What does that mean for our mission?" Weiss asked, Her brow furrowing as she crossed her arms defensively.
"It means we need to be on high alert… But, I do have to say there will not be hostile forces. So there is no need to worry about that." Sterling replied, His tone firm & confident. "We just need to remain vigilant as we proceed. We don't know what might be causing these teleportations, And it could be linked to our missing civilians."
Nora, Ever the optimist, bounced on her feet, her enthusiasm infectious. "So, We might run into some cool stuff? I'm in!"
"Right," Sterling said, Grateful for the balance of excitement and caution within the group. "We'll head northeast toward the last known location of the civilians. Remember, Our mission is to gather information & act quickly. If we encounter anything out of the ordinary, We'll adapt our plan… Good gear up! Wearing winter clothes, It will be cold!"
The team nodded in agreement, The camaraderie among them solidifying as they began to gear up for their mission. Sterling felt a swell of pride as he watched his friends prepare, Their determination radiating through the room.
———
18 Minutes Later | Time: 12:10 P.M. Location: Airship Platform 3 with Team RWBY S. JNPR.
——
Sterling was first at Airship Platform 3 & before anyone could get there. Sterling summons a VH-90GS TYPHON Hawk.
The first to arrive at the bustling Airship Platform 3 was Ruby, Her vibrant red cloak billowing behind her as she walked in alongside her spirited sister, Yang, who wore a confident smile. Following closely behind was Weiss, Elegant & Poised, her icy demeanor contrasting sharply with the lively energy of the two sisters.
Soon after, Pyrrha entered the scene, radiating strength and determination alongside her two companions, Jane & Blake, who exchanged a knowing glance that spoke volumes about their fresh bond. The atmosphere buzzed with camaraderie as Nora & Ren brought up the rear, Their laughter ringing out like a melody, adding to the lively tapestry of arrivals filled with friendship and adventure.
"Alright, Ladies! Step aboard the glorious VH-90GS TYPHON Hawk! Our destination is the remote Island UMF Outpost. For those unfamiliar with me, Allow me to introduce myself—I'm Sterling Schnee, The President of the United Minutemen Federation. Think of it as a new kingdom, Though it's something unique unto itself.
Now, Back to our mission: The UMF Outpost is just five miles off the shimmering coast of the Continent of Sanus. From there, We'll catch a ride on the impressive CL-1201 Dragoneye, which will fly us towards the Northeast of the breathtaking Continent of Anima.
Understood?" Sterling's voice crackled with excitement.
The airship platform was abuzz with activity, the thrum of machinery and chatter of other students creating a lively backdrop for their mission. He glanced at the VH-90GS TYPHON Hawk, its sleek design and powerful engines a testament to the technological advancements of the United Minutemen Federation.
Ruby, Her silver eyes sparkling with excitement, was the first to break the slight tension. "This is amazing! I can't wait to see the view from up there!" She gestured toward the sky, Her enthusiasm infectious as she envisioned the adventure ahead.
Yang grinned, Her energy matching Ruby's. "As long as I get to sit by the window, I'm all in! I want to see everything!"
Weiss rolled her eyes playfully but couldn't hide her smile. "Let's just make sure we don't get too distracted. We have a mission to focus on, Remember?"
"Right.. right," Ruby said, Waving her hand dismissively but with a playful grin. "But a little fun on the way won't hurt!"
Pyrrha stepped forward, Her demeanor calm & reassuring. "We'll be fine, as long as we work together. I trust we can handle whatever comes our way."
Absolutely!" Sterling replied, feeling the warmth of camaraderie enveloping him. "And besides, the view from the airship will give us a great vantage point to scout for anything unusual before we land."
With the team gathered & spirits high, They boarded the TYPHON Hawk, each member taking a moment to appreciate the technological marvel around them. The interior was spacious, With comfortable seating & ample storage for their gear. Sterling took a seat near the front, Ready to help navigate and coordinate.
As the engines roared to life, The vibrations filled the cabin, and the excitement in the air was tangible. "Alright, Team! Buckle up!" Sterling called, Securing his seatbelt as the airship began its ascent. The sensation of lifting off sent a thrill through him; He could feel the anticipation building among his friends.
The view from the windows was breathtaking. The landscape of Sanus stretched out below them, A patchwork of greens, browns, and blues. The sun glinted off the ocean, Creating a dazzling display of light that made Sterling's heart race with the possibilities of adventure.
"Wow, Look at that!" Ruby pointed out, Her voice filled with awe. "The coast looks incredible from up here! I can't believe we're actually flying!"
Yang leaned closer to the window, Her eyes wide. "I could get used to this! It's like a dream!"
As they soared into the sky, Sterling couldn't help but feel the weight of responsibility on his shoulders. Leading his team into their first mission was no small feat, and he was determined to keep them safe while achieving their goal. He glanced back at his teammates, Their faces illuminated by the sunlight filtering through the windows. Each one was brimming with excitement and resolve, and that bolstered his confidence.
"Remember," He said, Raising his voice to be heard over the roar of the engines, "We're going to the UMF Outpost first, It's crucial that we stay focused & work as a unit."
"Of course, Fearless Captain!" Nora replied with a mock salute, Her energy was infectious. The rest of the team laughed, Lightening the mood even further.
As the airship continued its ascent, Sterling felt a sense of unity among his teammates. They were ready to take on whatever lay ahead, And this mission was just the beginning of their journey.
———
Time: 2:13 P.M. Location: Island UMF Outpost, Five Miles off the coast of the Continent of Sanus.
——
As the airship continued its ascent, Sterling felt a sense of unity among his teammates. They were ready to take on whatever lay ahead, And this mission was just the beginning of their journey.
The flight to the UMF Outpost was smooth, And soon enough, they spotted the island ahead. It was a small, Rocky outcrop surrounded by azure waters, the outpost itself nestled against the cliffs. The airship began its descent, And Sterling's heart raced with excitement.
"Prepare for landing!" He called out, His voice steady as they approached the platform at the outpost.
With a gentle thud, The TYPHON Hawk touched down, and the engines quieted. Sterling unbuckled his seatbelt, Feeling the adrenaline surge through him as they stepped off the airship and onto the platform. The salty breeze brushed against his skin, A refreshing reminder of their surroundings.
"Welcome to the Sanus UMF Outpost!" Sterling announced, Gesturing toward the rugged landscape before them. "From here, We'll catch the CL-1201 Dragoneye, which will take us further into the Northeast of Anima. Let's move quickly; We don't know how much time we have before the situation escalates."
As they gathered their gear & prepared to head toward the transport. That's when Ruby Rose, Blake Belladonna, Yang Xiao Long, Weiss Schnee, Nora Valkyrie, Pyrrha Nikos, Jane Arc, And Lie Ren saw the CL-1201 Dragoneye, 560 ft in length and 153 ft in height.
The CL-1201 Dragoneye loomed majestically before them, Its sleek design & powerful engines gleaming under the sun. The airship's metallic surface shimmered, Reflecting the vibrant blues of the surrounding sea and the rich greens of the island's vegetation. Sterling felt a rush of excitement as he surveyed the impressive transport, Knowing that this vessel would take them further into the heart of their mission.
"Wow! Look at the size of that thing!" Ruby exclaimed, Her eyes wide with wonder as she took in the sight of the Dragoneye.
Yang grinned, Her competitive spirit ignited. "I bet it can fly faster than the TYPHON Hawk! Let's make sure we snag the best seats for the ride!"
Weiss rolled her eyes but couldn't help but smile at her teammates' enthusiasm. "Focus, Everyone. We still have a mission to complete. Let's not get too distracted by the airship."
As they approached the Dragoneye, Sterling could see the crew busy at work, preparing for the next flight. The air was filled with the sounds of machinery & shouts of commands, Creating an atmosphere of organized chaos. He felt his heart race with anticipation; They were one step closer to their goal.
"Alright, Team. Stick together as we board," Sterling instructed, Leading the way up the gangplank. He could feel the energy buzzing around him, Each teammate as eager as he was.
Once inside, They were greeted by the spacious interior of the Dragoneye. The seating was arranged in a semi-circular format, Allowing for a panoramic view from the large windows. The cockpit was visible at the front, Where the Nikke Pilot & Nikke Co-Pilot were busy running final checks before takeoff.
"Find a seat, And make sure you strap in!" Sterling called out, Taking a seat near the front. He wanted to be close to the cockpit, Where he could keep an eye on the navigation & assist if necessary.
As the team settled in, Ruby plopped down beside him. "Do you think we'll see any Grimm from up here?" She asked, Her excitement bubbling over.
"If we do, We'll be ready for them," Sterling reassured her, Glancing around at his teammates, each one preparing for the journey ahead. Yang took the seat next to Ruby, While Weiss slid in beside them, her expression focused.
Nora & Ren chose seats on the opposite side, Sharing playful banter that kept the mood light. Pyrrha & Blake sat together, Discussing strategies for their approach once they landed.
"Alright, Everyone! Buckle up!" The pilot's voice crackled over the intercom, snapping Sterling's focus back to the front. "We're ready for departure. This is a direct flight to the Northeast of Anima, So sit tight!"
The engines roared to life, And the Dragoneye vibrated with power. Sterling felt the familiar thrill of anticipation as they lifted off the ground, The island of UMF Outpost shrinking beneath them. As they climbed higher, The view outside transformed into a breathtaking panorama of the coastline, the ocean sparkling like diamonds in the sunlight.
"Look at that!" Ruby pointed to the horizon, Her voice filled with awe. "It's so beautiful!"
As they soared through the skies, Sterling couldn't help but feel a sense of adventure wash over him. This mission was not just a test of their skills; It was an opportunity to explore, to protect, and to forge bonds that would last a lifetime.
———
Time: 4:03 P.M. Location: Flying over the Continent of Anima, And are Few Minutes off from the Mission Area.
——
"Alright, Everyone! Keep your eyes peeled for anything unusual," Sterling reminded them, Scanning the skies and ocean below for any signs of danger or the missing civilians. "We're still on a rescue mission, And we need to be ready for anything."
The flight continued smoothly, And as they neared the Northeast of Anima, the Nikke Pilot's voice interrupted their thoughts. "We're approaching the drop zone. Get ready for a quick descent!"
Sterling's heart raced with excitement. "This is it, Team! Prepare to jump! Parachute on, As you all know the CL-1201 Dragoneye is large & can't land!"
As the Dragoneye began its descent to 5000 feet up, The landscape below came into view. The forest was thick & sprawling, Dotted with patches of vibrant flowers and the occasional clearing.
The anticipation in the cabin was almost electric as the CL-1201 Dragoneye began its descent. Sterling could feel the adrenaline coursing through his veins. Each teammate around him brimming with excitement & readiness.
"Prepare for jump!" The Nikke Pilot announced, His tone steady and professional. "Ensure your parachutes are secured & ready for deployment. We'll be hovering at 5,000 feet for a quick drop."
"Let's go, Team!" Sterling shouted, His voice cutting through the hum of the engines. He could see Ruby adjusting her parachute harness, Her silver eyes shining with thrill. Yang was bouncing in her seat, Her competitive spirit evident as she readied herself for the jump.
"Just like old times, Huh?" Yang teased, Giving Ruby a playful shove. "Let's see who can make the best landing!"
"Not if I can help it!" Ruby shot back with a determined grin, Her competitive nature ignited.
As the Dragoneye stabilized, Sterling took a deep breath, centering himself. "Focus on the mission, Everyone. We'll have plenty of time to compare landing styles later." He offered a reassuring smile, Feeling the camaraderie swell within the group.
The Nikke Pilot's voice crackled again, "We've reached the drop zone. Let's make this a clean jump. On my mark… Three… Two… One… Jump!"
Without hesitation, Sterling sprang into action, launching himself through the open hatch of the Dragoneye. The rush of air filled his lungs as he fell, The ground rushing up to meet him. He felt the exhilaration of the free fall, The adrenaline heightening his senses as he activated his parachute. The canopy opened with a soft whoosh, And he floated gently downward, his eyes scanning the landscape below.
The Snowy Forest, Nicknamed The (Snowy Death) Forest sprawled beneath him, A sea of vibrant whites & greys, the sunlight filtering through the leaves. He could see patches of colorful wildflowers dotting the underbrush, But his focus remained sharp. Their mission was to locate the missing civilians, And he needed to stay alert.
As he descended, Sterling spotted his teammates gliding through the air around him. Ruby & Yang had leapt together, their laughter echoing through the trees. Pyrrha & Blake followed closely, Their movements graceful and coordinated. Nora & Ren, Ever the dynamic duo, were already playfully competing to see who could land the closest together.
"Stay together!" Sterling called out, Guiding his descent toward a clearing he had spotted below. "We need to regroup as soon as we land!"
With a gentle thud, He touched down in the clearing, quickly unbuckling his parachute & glancing around. The forest was eerily quiet, The vibrant sounds of nature muted as if the woods themselves were holding their breath.
One by one, His teammates landed nearby, laughter and excitement filling the air as they gathered in the clearing. The camaraderie was palpable as they exchanged stories of their landings, The mood lightening despite the seriousness of their mission.
"Did you see how I swooped in?" Yang boasted, Her eyes gleaming with pride. "I totally nailed that!"
"Yeah, But did you see my spin? That was a perfect landing!" Ruby chimed in, Her excitement infectious.
"Alright, alright. Let's save the competition for after we've found the civilians." Sterling interjected, his tone light but firm. "We need to get moving."
Pyrrha nodded, Her expression shifting to one of focus. "We should establish a search pattern. If we can cover more ground, We'll have a better chance of locating them quickly."
"Good idea." Sterling agreed, Feeling the weight of leadership settle upon him. "Let's split into pairs but stay within shouting distance. I'll go with Ruby; Weiss, you & Yang can pair up. Pyrrha & Blake, stick together. Nora & Ren, You two take the left flank. We'll keep in contact via our comms."
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To be continued
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