D-RWBY: Volume 2

Request

The sounds of clashing weapons and grunts of exertion filled Professor Goodwitch's combat classroom as Pyrrha Nikos faced off against Team CRDL in what was supposed to be a challenging four-on-one match. Unfortunately for her opponents, the word "challenging" didn't seem to apply.

Cardin Winchester, the last member of his team still standing, desperately tried to block Pyrrha's fluid attacks with his massive mace. But the celebrated champion from Mistral was simply operating on a different level. With a graceful spin, she swept his legs out from under him, then launched him into the air with a precise kick before bringing him crashing back down to the mat with another strike.

The impact depleted what remained of Cardin's Aura in a brilliant flash of light.

"And that's the match," Professor Goodwitch announced as Cardin clutched his ribs and struggled to catch his breath.

"Lucky shot," Cardin wheezed before collapsing completely, prompting laughter from the spectating students.

Team DANY's section was particularly vocal in their amusement at CRDL's decisive defeat.

"Well done, Miss Nikos," Goodwitch said with professional approval. "You should have no trouble qualifying for the tournament." Her sharp gaze then shifted to the four boys who were still chuckling. "Team DANY, since you all seem so confident, perhaps one of you would like to demonstrate your skills against Miss Nikos?"

The teammates exchanged quick glances before Dan stepped forward. "I'll take the match, Professor."

Pyrrha's face lit up with genuine excitement. She had been wondering about Dan's abilities ever since witnessing his performance during the food fight, and now she would finally get to test herself against him properly.

"Excellent," Goodwitch said. "Take your positions."

As they moved to opposite ends of the arena, Dan caught sight of a gray-haired student in the stands raising his hand.

"Excuse me, Professor," the newcomer called out. "Could I join this match as well?"

Goodwitch frowned. "Mr. Black, isn't it? This is meant to be a two-person sparring session—"

"Actually, I don't mind," Pyrrha interjected, her competitive spirit ignited by the prospect of an even greater challenge. "I'd be happy to face both opponents."

Dan shrugged, pulling his hands from his pockets and settling into a more serious stance. "Fine by me. Let him join."

Mercury Black descended to the arena floor with predatory confidence, his leg-mounted weapons gleaming under the gymnasium lights. Something about his demeanor set Dan on edge, though he couldn't quite place why.

"Positions!" Goodwitch called out. "Three... two... one... BEGIN!"

Mercury immediately launched himself at Dan with a devastating kick, but Dan caught the attack with a casual raise of his forearm. The ease with which he blocked the strike clearly shocked Mercury, whose eyes widened in disbelief.

Before Mercury could recover, Pyrrha attacked from behind, thrusting her spear toward Dan's back. Without even turning around, Dan caught the spear's tip between two fingers, stopping the weapon dead.

"Impressive," he said with a slight smirk, then vanished from sight entirely.

Both opponents looked around frantically, trying to locate their disappeared target. Dan reappeared directly in front of Pyrrha, throwing a measured punch that she barely managed to block with her shield. Even though she successfully defended, the force of the impact created a small shockwave that rippled through the arena.