The very next day, classes were called off for an impromptu awards ceremony.

It had been Ozpin's idea - a way to lift the school staff's spirits, many of whom had been devastated to hear the fate of their comrades, and also to inspire the other students, many of whom had no idea what had even transpired.

So it happened that the main auditorium was packed, applause ringing through the vaulted space for the students who had stopped the monstrous Grimm in its tracks.

Glynda watched from the sidelines as Jaune and Pyrrha accepted medals of honor on behalf of team JNPR - Nora had refused to leave Ren's side for even a second - and Weiss, regal as ever, stood alone to accept medals of honor on behalf of team RWBY. Ozpin had suggested giving Glynda her own medal of honor, but she shot the idea down without hesitation.

Her reasoning was simple - this was their victory. These young men and women who were training to hold back all of the world's darkness had performed above and beyond what anyone had expected, and had come out alive, if somewhat worse for wear. Yang Xiao Long and Lie Ren would be in intensive care at least another few days, recovering from the worst of their wounds, and everyone who came into contact with the rats' poison would have to go through an extensive antitoxin course. But for the most part their condition seemed stable.

Glynda Goodwitch turned, her cape following obediently as the applause rang out again for the trio on the stage who represented the two teams of students.

It would be a long road to recovery for some of them, and she certainly didn't envy them it.

A/N: Thank you guys SO MUCH for coming along on this wild ride with us. We are ridiculously excited about everything - followers, reviews, all of you, keep being awesome. Also, keep an eye out for the sequel... ;3

Hugs,
Defenestrator

A/N part II: Yeah, Defenestrator said all the important stuff. You reviewers are awesome. We'll miss you, random bloodthirsty guy! And the rest of you totally stay tuned. We've got crazy stuff planned. It's going to be a blast.

- Fiercesomest