RWBY: Moon Reflection

As the conversation in the living room shifted, the tension began to ease. The group found themselves discussing various topics until the subject of Moon Breathing naturally came up.

Ironwood, who had been quietly observing for most of the evening, perked up at the mention. "Moon Breathing… I've heard the rumors. They've spread through the ranks, but I was wondering how true they were."

Ruby, always eager to explain, straightened in her seat. "It's true. Crimson explained it to me. The technique enhances the body in every way—strength, speed, stamina, precision, and even recovery. It's like pushing your physical limits without actually crossing into dangerous territory. With the right control, it makes you faster and stronger than you'd think possible. And the inspiration is weird as it's working."

Crimson commented offhandedly "Ruby, It is important to draw wisdom from different places. If you take it from only one place, it becomes rigid and stale."

Ruby gave him a look of exasperation; drawing wisdom from the moon is too much of a stretch..

Ironwood's expression shifted to one of genuine curiosity as he turned to Crimson. "And how does it work in combat?"

Crimson's voice was calm as he elaborated. "The breathing technique has a set of forms. Each form is designed for peak efficiency, power, speed, and precision in specific combat situations. At its highest level, it's about maximizing every movement and strike. I can perform six forms." He glanced toward Winter, a faint smile tugging at his lips. "Specialist Schnee has already experienced the first three."

Winter's eyes narrowed slightly, recalling the battle where she'd witnessed Crimson's prowess firsthand. She said nothing, but her gaze conveyed respect.

Ironwood leaned forward. "Six forms… And when you fought Cinder, how many forms did you use?"

Most of the present in the room didn't know the significance of taking down Cinder, she was the fallen maiden, and wielded power most of the huntsmen couldn't hope to fight against. Even if she was weakened by fighting Ozpin, she is still far beyond the power scope of most of the huntsmen. Those who understood the implication were also curious about the answer.

And as the question hung in the air, most of the group exchanged confused glances. While Ironwood's tone was neutral, Crimson sensed a deeper intent behind it. He hesitated briefly but answered honestly.

"I used the first through fifth forms in rapid succession," Crimson said evenly.

Ruby, ever the helpful one, chimed in. "And it didn't even take long. I don't think Cinder lasted more than twenty seconds. We could hear her screams not long after we escaped." She shivered slightly, the memory sending a chill down her spine.

Ironwood's expression shifted as he processed the information. To him, the implications were staggering. Cinder, a Fall Maiden, was one of the most dangerous enemies their side had faced. And yet, Crimson had not only fought her but overwhelmed her in mere seconds.

Ironwood's gaze lingered on Crimson, sharp and analytical. In his mind, Crimson wasn't just a skilled fighter—he was a strategic advantage, a force on par with, or perhaps even exceeding, a Maiden in sheer power. Combined with Crimson's intelligence and composure, it was clear that his refusal to become a Huntsman was a significant loss.

"So, is it true? This Moon Breathing technique of yours—can it really not be learned by others?" Ironwood asked again

Crimson leaned forward slightly, his fingers interlaced, and his expression calm yet firm. "It can be taught," he admitted, his voice steady. "But it's not worth the risk. Moon Breathing wasn't designed with anyone else in mind—it was tailor-made to suit me. For anyone else, the dangers far outweigh the benefits."

Ironwood raised an eyebrow. "Dangers?"

Crimson nodded. "Velvet is a good example. She used it briefly, and while it gave her a significant boost in power and speed, the backlash almost killed her."

Ren, sitting closest to Crimson, bit her lip. "I remember… Velvet was in so much pain afterward. She almost died"

Ironwood nodded slowly, his respect for Crimson deepening. Despite the sheer audacity of the boy's invention—something that sounded almost mythical—there was no denying his brilliance. To devise a technique capable of such feats required both extraordinary talent and relentless determination.

Taiyang, who had been silently listening from his seat, finally spoke."It's a shame," Tai said, his voice carrying a note of regret. "A skill like that—something so extraordinary—can't be passed on. It feels like it will just disappear with you, Crimson."

Yang crossed her arms, her golden hair catching the soft light as she glanced at her brother. "That's because Crimson is one of a kind," she said firmly. "I doubt there will ever be anyone as talented or comparable to him."

The others nodded in agreement, their faces showing no hint of doubt. Each of them had witnessed Crimson's abilities firsthand, and his quiet strength, both physical and emotional, left an indelible impression. To them, it seemed impossible for anyone else to reach such heights.

Crimson looked at his family and friends, their unwavering faith in him evident, however, he remained silent, his gaze distant. He recalled a conversation he had long ago with Yorrichi, back then he gave up on finding a successor to inherit his technique and viewed everyone as lessers, his brother disagreed. It wasn't until centuries later he was proven wrong, the young hashiras of a new era displayed skills and potential that could rival him in his human days or even surpass him.

Ruby, noticing his uncharacteristic look, tilted her head and asked softly, "Crimson? What's wrong?"

Her question drew the attention of everyone in the room. All eyes turned to him, and for a moment, Crimson simply studied their faces.

Crimson looked at her, he recalled the wisdom and humility his brother had, then spoke in a tranquil voice "I am not superior to everyone. I am merely one fragment of humankind's long history. Those whose talents surpass me might be uttering their first cries at this very moment. They may come to reach the same heights I have… and perhaps even higher. There is no need to dwell on it. One day, a new generation will surpass me and ascend to even greater heights"

The room grew quiet as his words sank in, the profound humility in them touching everyone present.

Pyrrha, thoughtful and inspired, murmured, "That's… a humbling way to look at it."

Yang frowned slightly but then nodded, a small smile forming on her lips. "I guess I can see that. Still… it's hard to imagine anyone surpassing you, Crimson."

Crimson chuckled softly. "They don't need to be better than me right now. They just need to grow and reach their own heights. And when they do, they will inspire the ones who come after them."

Qrow, who had been nursing his flask, finally spoke up. "Well, kid, I don't know about the future, but for now, you are still the one setting the bar."

As the conversation in the living room ebbed and flowed, General Ironwood found his thoughts drifting to Crimson. He remembered his conversation with Ozpin.

Ozpin had spoken of Crimson's disdain for Huntsmen and his skepticism of their ideals. He explained that Crimson viewed Summer Rose's sacrifice not as a noble act but as a failure—a choice that abandoned her family in favor of duty. Despite this perspective, Crimson had continually pushed his sisters to grow stronger and better. Though he disdained the profession, Crimson had achieved a level of skill and strength that most could only dream of attaining in their lifetimes. To the general, Crimson was a paradox—a man who rejected the system yet embodied its highest ideals.

Ironwood's thoughts grew heavier as he reflected on Crimson's actions. [He could have walked away that night. No one would have blamed him. But he saw the bigger picture. He chose to stand with us, to fight for more than just himself or his family. When it mattered most, he rose to the occasion.]

Now, sitting here and listening to Crimson speak about the future, Ironwood felt something stir within him as he thought to himself [In some ways, he and I aren't so different. We both believe in humanity's future. We are both willing to get our hands dirty for the greater good. But unlike me, he places his family above everything else. He prioritizes their safety and well-being over his own beliefs. I understand that. I respect that.]

Ironwood cleared his throat, breaking the lull in the conversation. His commanding presence drew all eyes to him. "Crimson," he began, his tone even and deliberate, "I'd like to propose something."

Crimson tilted his head slightly, his calm gaze meeting the general's.

"I'd like to formally invite you to join the Atlas military as a Specialist."

The room erupted into shock.

"What?!" Ruby exclaimed, her voice high-pitched. Yang's jaw dropped, and even Winter, who rarely showed emotion, was visibly surprised.

Crimson's expression, however, remained unreadable. He studied Ironwood carefully, as though analyzing every nuance of the man's intent.

Ironwood raised a hand to quiet the room. "Before you react, let me explain."

He leaned forward, his eyes never leaving Crimson's. "There are people out there like Cinder—dangerous individuals who would see the kingdoms fall, who thrive on chaos and destruction, you have experienced what happens when they get their way. By fighting them, you wouldn't be abandoning your family. Quite the opposite. You'd be ensuring their safety, their peace."

The general paused, letting his words sink in. The weight of his statement hung in the air, heavy and undeniable.

"I wouldn't make such an offer lightly," Ironwood continued, his sincerity evident. "You've proven your capabilities time and time again. Your intelligence, your strength, your resolve—it's rare, even among the best of us. Humanity needs people like you. And while I understand your reservations, I want you to know this: you wouldn't be alone. You'd have the full support of Atlas behind you."

Crimson leaned back slightly, his expression thoughtful. His siblings watched him closely, their faces a mix of shock and apprehension.

"I'll need time to think about it," Crimson said finally, his voice calm but firm.

Ironwood nodded, as though he'd expected the response. "Take all the time you need. Just know that the offer stands. Humanity's future is worth fighting for, and you'd have the means to protect those you care about."

With that, the conversation shifted, but the weight of Ironwood's words lingered in the room.