A curse in human flesh

Chpater 7

Winter walked alongside General Ironwood as they made their way towards Beacon Academy, their footsteps echoing against the polished floors of the corridors. The atmosphere was tense, filled with anticipation and uncertainty as they prepared to meet with Ozpin, the enigmatic headmaster of the prestigious academy.

As they walked, Winter couldn't help but reflect on the stark contrast between the bustling streets of Vale and the rigid, regimented society of Atlas. Here, in the heart of Remnant, she could see the intricate tapestry of life unfolding before her—a diverse array of humans and Faunus coexisting in harmony, their lives intertwined in a delicate dance of cooperation and mutual respect. It was a sight that filled her with both admiration and apprehension, a stark reminder of the complexities of the world beyond the confines of Atlas.

"Nervous, Schnee?" The General's voice broke through her reverie, drawing her attention back to the present moment. Winter shook her head, a faint smile playing at the corners of her lips.

"No, General," she replied, her tone steady despite the underlying currents of uncertainty. "I'm already accustomed to meeting 'important' people in various social gatherings and meetings. I suppose the work of my father has left its mark on me."

General Ironwood nodded in understanding, his gaze thoughtful as he considered her words. "Indeed," he murmured, his voice tinged with a hint of admiration. "But remember, Winter, this is not just any meeting. Our interactions here could have far-reaching implications for the future of Atlas and Vale alike."

Winter nodded in agreement, her expression serious as she contemplated the gravity of their mission. She knew that their words and actions would carry weight, influencing not only the delicate balance of power between the kingdoms, but also the lives of countless individuals caught in the crossfire of political intrigue and conflict.

The elevator doors slid open with a soft whoosh, revealing the familiar sight of Ozpin's office bathed in warm, golden light. The headmaster sat behind his desk, his gaze fixed upon the sprawling vista visible through the expansive windows that adorned the room. Despite the gravity of their meeting, there was a sense of tranquility that permeated the space—a serene calm that belied the tumultuous events unfolding beyond the academy walls.

"Ah, James. It's nice to see you again, dear friend," greeted Ozpin, his voice tinged with warmth as he rose from his seat to greet his guests. The two men exchanged a firm handshake, their camaraderie evident in the easy familiarity of their interaction.

"Same to you, Ozpin," replied Ironwood, a faint smile playing at the corners of his lips as he returned the gesture. His gaze shifted to Glynda, acknowledging her presence with a nod of his head. "Hello to you too, Ms. Goodwitch."

"James," responded Glynda, her tone cool and composed as she returned his greeting.

Ironwood turned to Winter, gesturing towards her with a sense of pride. "Ah, Ozpin, Glynda, I'd like to introduce you to my newest Specialist in the Academy, Ms. Winter Schnee. She has been extremely helpful and hardworking, earning her ranks in the fields of what we have been doing."

Ozpin's eyes widened slightly at the introduction, a flicker of interest dancing in their depths. "I see. Your parents must be proud of your accomplishments, I presume."

Winter's mask slipped for a fraction of a second, a subtle twitch betraying the turmoil that churned beneath her calm facade. Her relationship with her parents was complicated, to say the least—a delicate balance of duty and defiance, loyalty and resentment. Her father's approval was a distant dream, overshadowed by his relentless pursuit of power and prestige, while her mother's absence loomed like a specter, a painful reminder of the fractured bonds that once bound their family together.