After leaving Director Ozpin's office, I felt more confused than ever. Logic dictated that I should head to the dormitory to meet with my team, discuss important topics, and start acting like the captain I'd been appointed to be. Instead, I found myself wandering aimlessly until I ended up in the park.

I sat on a bench facing a fountain, the gentle spray of water sparkling in the light. My gaze locked onto it, though my mind was elsewhere, swirling with chaotic thoughts. Memories of the forest—our first trial merged with anxious visions of what the future might hold. The weight of my family's expectations crept in as well. Were they thinking about me? Were they proud of what I'd done?

Then, like a bolt of lightning out of a clear sky, the truth struck me. No, it wasn't sudden. Deep down, I'd known it since I left his office. I just hadn't wanted to admit it.

The tale has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the violation.

"He knows," I whispered to myself, the words sending a chill down my spine. I shivered, cold sweat dripping down my back as I felt the weight of realization settle in.

"What's he up to? If he knows how I got here... knows I faked my way into Beacon... why didn't he send me back? And why would he make me captain?!"

The questions tumbled out, unbidden and frantic. I didn't realize I'd spoken aloud until I noticed a boy and a girl passing by. They slowed, glancing at me with raised eyebrows before quickening their pace.

Great. Now I'm sitting here talking to myself like a madman. Perfect.

I sank back against the bench, staring blankly at the fountain as its rhythmic splashes punctuated the silence.

"What was Ozpin's game?" I muttered under my breath, my voice low and strained. He had to have a plan—some reason for letting me stay, for making me a leader of all things.

But what?

And what was I supposed to do in the meantime?