Hello again, and welcome to the second chapter of Beacon's Wolf. Before I start this to answer reviews, I have to say that I am delighted with the welcome this fic received and it sure encourages me to continue!

Merendinoemiliano: Hello and thanks for your kind message. To clarify things, Ruby is not adopted here, and this was her birth parents. I'm sorry if I brought any confusion about it in the first chapter.

KibaPT: Just as told, Qrow will not be Ruby's father, as much as I like the character, I do indeed believe that Tai is Ruby's real father in canon.

Venom1121: Thanks and I hope to not disappoint in this chapter.

Starburst2879: Well, I'm happy to say that you are a kind soul if you consider this mean. It was not in any way, and I truly appreciate the effort you made to make me improve my writing.

Darkdragon0298: Thank you very much, and I hope you continue to enjoy!

It was impossible; I was sure to be alone. My thoughts ran so deep that I ignored everything else, and I paid the price. I tried in vain to force my hand down my throat in a last effort to escape my fate, but the grip was firm and didn't falter. I tried to struggle and claw my way out with my other hand when a second hand pinned my other arm. Without any way to keep fighting, I dared to look up from the ground and saw a black skirt followed by a white top. What struck me most as I looked her face was the absence of faunus features. She had a lean face complimented by wide green eyes, her lips forming a thin line and her brows frowned. I couldn't figure out what she was thinking and being frank; I didn't care at all. Maybe it is one of these humans my father talked me about, those who enslaved us, or maybe to kill some of us. That would surely make my father laugh if he learned. To hell if I know. I couldn't take over my opponent; I was too tired and distraught, so I let my shoulder slump, defeat clearly displayed on my face. She still hadn't moved, except to keep me restrained, and didn't utter a word. In spite of me, I felt the rage begin to rise in me as the silence dragged on and we stare at each other All the emotions I had bottled up were starting to run wild, and I started to writhe again. I then shouted at my aggressor,

"What are you waiting for? Just take me away or kill me, but don't just stay here staring at me like I'm some sort of disease."

What I said didn't make any sense, and I knew it. I just confronted my father about his views on humans, yet here I have accused the first one I met. I just wanted someone to vent my wrath, someone to lash on. I had too much in me to keep it locked up as I did through the years. I was an emotional wreck, sniffing loudly, my tears falling to the ground mingled with blood, dripping through the leaves. My mind was in turmoil, my thoughts constantly shifting giving me no rest. I screamed in pure frustration, trying to shut the voices in my head, then, without any force left, I collapsed against her, my forehead bumping softly onto her chest. Just a few moments later, her grip lessened, and hesitantly, she wrapped me in her arms. Something broke when I felt her embrace, and I began to sob. My hands clenched on her top as if she could disappear at any moment; she was a stranger, a human moreover, but she brought what I craved all my life; a shoulder to cry on and a comforting touch. After some time my sobs subdued and I spoke with a hoarse voice,

"Why did you stopped me… Why did you save me?"

I had trouble to speak without breaking again, and little hiccups cut my questions. She pushed me away from her to look into my eyes, as she answered

"As a huntress, it is my duty to help those in need."

Her gaze was gentle and her voice sweet. I couldn't believe that a human, always described as monsters by my father or the white fang would just save me just selflessly. Likely sensing my doubts, she mutters soothingly,

"It'll be alright, I won't let you get hurt anymore."

I began to calm down as she wiped away the traces of tears on my cheeks with her fingertips. Slightly tensing at the touch at first, I relaxed as we fell into a silence only perturbed by the chirping of birds. Soon, my ears twitched as I recognized the sound of my pursuers. Dread started to creep in me as I quickly explain,

"We can't stay, we have to go. Please take me with you! I can't stay here… I can't."

I grabbed her hand and took a step, a hiss escaping my lips as I forced myself to ignore the pain. Swiftly coming to a decision, she nodded her head, carried me and took off. I don't remember much after that, only some bridles. The night falling. Her cape wrapped around me spreading warmth in my frail body.

/\

I rubbed my eyes as I woke up in a bed that was definitely not mine. I got up and sat on the edge when I noticed I had a purple cape on my hands. I took time to recollect the events that brought me here, and I looked around at the room where I was sitting. It was plain, just four walls without any decorations, a bed, and a desk. All in all, it was neat and tidy. I noticed my wounds had been cleaned, and I had a bandage on my thigh. As I took some steps cautiously, I saw some clothes folded on the desk accompanied by a note.

Hello,

I am not sure you remember, but I am Glynda Goodwitch, we met yesterday.

I took the liberty to put you on the bed and prepare some clothes when you wake up.

When you are ready, please join me in the living room.

It was a pair of gray pajama pants and a white t-shirt. I was too little for the outfit, but with some efforts and a belt she left on purpose on the desk, I managed to hold the clothes in place. Bracing myself for what would be a painful conversation, I took a deep breath and opened the door. The Huntress was sitting on a chair, reading some article or news on her scroll. She lifted her head up as I entered the room and made a smile. She showed me a tray with biscuits, yogurt and a glass of water on it,

"Hello, young miss. Take a sit and eat your breakfast, you must be hungry." As to prove it, my stomach chose this moment to growl, and I blushed, embarrassed.

"Thank you," I mumbled.

I sat in front of her and hesitantly stared at the meal. She smiled again and nodded,

"It's okay, eat. I'll wait."

I ate slowly, and when finished I stared at the empty tray to gather my thoughts. I had to do this.

"I am… ready to talk" My voice didn't come as firm as I would have liked, but she didn't seem to mind.

"Let's have this discussion on the couch. It will be more comfortable."

After getting settled, she talked again,

"I apologize, I know this will be difficult for you but I'm sure you understand that I have questions." Her voice was soft but carried authority, and I knew I wouldn't be able to lie. Not like I was any good at it, hence my situation. I nodded at her to continue,

"Good. What is your name and how old are you?"

"My name is Ruby Rose, and I am 14, madam."

"Please, just Glynda. Are you from the village of Adola?"

"Yes, I am."

"Can you tell me how did you end in such a situation and how the White Fang came to your village?"

"It's… only fair I tell you,"

I knew I couldn't escape the questions, but it didn't make it easier to answer. I heard of huntresses and what they stand for. It was no coincidence she was there near the village last night, and I was certainly not the reason of her presence.

"I… suppose you are already aware of the white fang presence in my village?" She nodded to confirm, and I continued.

"They have not always been there. Their arrival was a few years ago. Before that the village was normal, we were just living a simple life, day-to-day. I saw one of them for the first time four years ago. I remember it distinctly, we are isolated, and we don't often see new people. After that, life in the village began to change through time. They organized meetings to spread their message, to explain how the issues between humans and faunus could never be resolved peacefully. The injustices, we, as faunus suffered was nothing new, the villagers who were going to Vale often complained about it, but what the white fang proposed was a different answer than just accept it. They played with their fear that isolated villages were easy to target for humans, which they enslaved and wiped out. They offered protection at the condition we support them. Soon enough, the village turned into an outpost; it was easy to hide and scheme so deep in the forest. During this period, my father became a fanatic, giving speeches for them and proclaiming himself 'voice of the village'. I also noticed some villagers disappearing, people who didn't agree with them. After that, nobody tried to fight them. For my part, I've never found myself in their opinions, but I was smart enough not to let it known. Since I was young, I was always the introverted child, and I preferred to stay away from other kids. My parents," I flinched at the mention of them, "were always distant too, I think I was more of an obligation to them. So I found solace in the forest, spending hours walking around and reading."

Despite his interaction with the white fang, I deliberately omitted Tukson from my story. I didn't want to bring him any trouble.

"I only escaped their notice for so long, because I was still young. Yesterday was… different. My father," The shiver who spread to my spine had nothing to do with cold, "confronted me on rumors circulating about me. My frequent absence to the meetings and lack of support to their group made the issue brought to him. I think in some twisted way, the reason he chose to ignore the rumors about me until this day was that, as his daughter, he was certain of my loyalty. I overheard they had some problems recently, so I guess that's why he wanted to check this rumors,"

My whole body trembled as the repressed memories flowed again in my mind, and I started to breathe erratically,

"He faced me directly and asked me about my side. To him, there is no neutral side, so it's either for or against them. I tried to lie, but I couldn't maintain my facade, and I lashed on him. I told him the questions I had in my heart for all these years. I asked him his reasons to support the White Fang, and why should we have to fight humans as we never had contact with them. But that only served to anger him, and he explained how without the white fang we would have no purpose, that they were protecting us from the humans, and the Schnee in particular."

Tears started to trickle from the corner of my eyes, and I was talking loudly,

"I tried to talk him about the Grimm and why we should aim for a peaceful approach, that even if they won it would be a Pyrrhic victory at best or seal for all of us if they lost. I… Told him if their only solution to the discrimination against us was a bloodshed, so they were monsters. When I saw the hate on his face, I knew I had to get away, but he stopped me and threw me on the ground,"

I felt dizzy, and I couldn't breathe properly. It was too much, and I saw myself again in my house, but I continued, nearly hysterical at this point,

"I… I… He threatened me, He called me a human whore! He said that since I didn't want to help them… He said that as his daughter I was the best to set an example. He gave me away for them to enjoy and my children would serve them better. He tore my clothes and dragged me into the central place of the village and gathered the others to humiliate me in front of everyone. After he left me, one of them tried to force me to come, but I made a run. They chased me and as one of them caught up with me, I… I wanted to be free of all this. I ran, I remember… like flashes. Trees on the side as I raced to escape. I was scared but too tired to continue. I didn't want them to take me back, so I knew… I had no choice…,"

Tears blurred my vision, and I heard Glynda call me, but I was no longer able to stop. I felt myself hyperventilate and my whole body shake unbridled. I didn't notice my claws extending and drawing blood in my clenched fists. Unconsciously, my hands began to move to my throat,

"I WANT TO DIE!"

A hand grabbed my arm, and I lashed. I felt my claws digging into flesh and ripples of blood run along my forearm.

"NO! LET ME GO! I WON'T COME BACK!"

A sting in my neck… No… I have to fight… I…

/\

I quickly sterilized my wound and hissed at the burning sensation. It was my fault, I was careless and didn't use my aura in time to protect myself. I had to I quickly cleaned the blood in her hand and carried her to my bed. After tucking her, I let my hand linger on the door handle, and I saw her turn around to her side and clench my cape. A faint smile bloomed as I gazed at her while she slept. It would take a few hours for her to wake up with the sedative I gave her, so time wasn't an issue, and it would be hopefully enough to keep her in a dreamless slumber. I sat on the couch to think about what transpired. Ruby's story shook me to the heart. I felt something salty pass my lips, and the foreign watery sensation gathered in my eyes. It was solely luck that I was there in time to save her last night, but I couldn't help to think that it was maybe more. Is this the time for me to think about it? I have to talk to Ozpin about this. I stood up and headed out to his office. I prefer dealing with Grimm. They are monsters by nature while these people have chosen to become one. I pondered over my decision to help the young girl. As a huntress, I witnessed a lot of horrors. I saw fellow hunters die combating the Grimm or the White Fang, and I had to kill when it was inevitable. So why does Ruby affect me this much? I was never one for physical contact, yet I embraced her and tucked her into the bed. Like a mother would. I had never been so confused, and it was preposterous, but the thought kept rushing back in my mind. I always prided myself as pragmatic and fair, but what I was feeling had nothing to do with it. It was purely emotional. What makes this girl so particular to worry me so much. I can't in good conscience let her leave; she has nowhere to go. I will discuss it with Ozpin. She had stirred up something buried in me, and I had to clear my mind quickly before I knocked on the door.

"It's Glynda, can I come in?"

"Please, come in."

I entered the familiar circular room and walked to his desk to take a seat.

"I talked to our new resident, and I am here to report."

He stared at me intently over his glasses,

"You don't have to talk like this Glynda. The situation is bothering you, and I know it is not related to the mission. What is this about?" I should have known that Ozpin would find out, and I adjusted my glasses. I nervously adjusted my glasses, and I picked up,

"It is a difficult matter for of all, I would like to point out that Ruby Rose, the girl I rescued is not a threat to Beacon and I pledge my responsibility. However, her story is not mine to tell, so I will not divulge it. We know each other for a long time Ozpin, and I would appreciate your guidance on the subject."

I heard him sigh softly,

"Glynda, as you said we are more than acquaintances at this point, and I'd dare say that we are friends, so you don't have to talk to me as headmaster, but as someone you trust." I spent some seconds considering my next words,

"There are those emotions since I rescued her and I heard her story. I have this impulse in me that push me to comfort her. I am uncertain about many things, but I know I don't want her to leave. I would like her to stay here in Beacon."

He stared at me quizzingly as if trying to figure me out but I withstood his gaze.

"I will take your word that young Ruby does not endanger Beacon, but still you know I can't just allow a civilian to stay here without reasons." He seemed to consider his options before focusing on me again,

"How old is she?"

"She is 14."

"I have something to propose, but first I would like to know what do you see in her. Surely you have already come across other orphans in your job, so what makes her peculiar in your eyes?"

"I have no idea. I will not enter into the details, but when I saw her, she wanted to suicide. You know I would not let a child die in front of me without doing anything."

"I would hope so, yes."

"When I saved her, she tried to struggle and lashed on me. This is when I saw her eyes, gleaming silver. I sensed the anger and the pain, but there was a desire to live underneath. I have the sentiment she has potential to be great."

"Silver eyes you say. It is unheard, but let's get back to our problem. The only way for Ruby to stay in Beacon would be to become a student. She has three years ahead to complete the task, which I believe under your supervision, is quite possible."

I closed my eyes a moment to collect myself. Would I go to such an extent to help her. Curiously, I was not afraid. I knew there were no other alternatives but even if they were, I don't think I would have chosen them. I opened my eyes,

"I accept to teach Ruby Rose to prepare her for Beacon."

Thank you for reading! If you feel like it or have any questions, let a review, and I'll do my best to answer for just chat about the story.

About Glynda in this chapter, she can seem OOC, but I'd like to think that even a person as strict as Glynda have a soft side in her and she just doesn't show it on the show because she is in her teacher's role. Feel free to tell me what you thought of it.

About that, do you prefer me to answer reviews at the start of the story of by private messages?

Edit : Fixed "Grimms" mistakes and added some formatting.