What if Salem Died
Overview of the Power Vacuum
Salemâs death removes the overarching goal of collecting the Relics and destroying the world, which was the primary force binding her Inner Circle. Without her, the members are free to pursue their personal ambitions, but their differing personalities, goals, and relationships make it unlikely for them to work cohesively as a single unit. The document highlights two natural leaders emerging: Cinder Fall, driven by a desire for power and to become a queen-like figure, and Arthur Watts, motivated to reshape the world in his image, leveraging his technological genius. Other characters will align based on their own goals, loyalties, or promises of power.
The analysis will group characters into Cinderâs Faction, Wattsâ Faction, or Independent/Other Factions, considering their motivations, past affiliations, and compatibility with each leaderâs vision. Iâll also address the Atlas conspiracy, Fort Lee, Dr. Merlot, and other notable characters from the document, ensuring a comprehensive breakdown.
Core Members: Cinder Fall (Leader), Mercury Black, Emerald Sustrai, Roman Torchwick, Neopolitan (Neo)
Cinderâs Goals and Leadership Style:
Motivation: Cinder is driven by a deep-seated desire for power, stemming from her abusive upbringing at the Glass Unicorn (Pages 50-51). She seeks to be feared and revered, aiming to become a queen-like figure by acquiring all Maiden powers. Without Salem, Cinder is no longer bound to serve a higher authority and can pursue her ambition to dominate Remnant. The document notes her jealousy of those with natural talents and her intolerance of being âunder someoneâs thumbâ (Page 51), suggesting she would aggressively seek to consolidate power.
Leadership Style: Cinder is manipulative, ruthless, and power-hungry, but her emotional volatility and need for control make her a polarizing leader. She demands loyalty but struggles to inspire it genuinely, often resorting to intimidation or coercion (e.g., her betrayal of Watts and Neo, Pages 49, 160). Her faction would appeal to those who crave power, fear her, or have personal loyalty to her.
Plans Without Salem: Cinder would likely continue her pursuit of the Maiden powers, targeting the remaining Maidens (Spring, Summer, Winter) to become the ultimate authority in Remnant. Destroying Beacon might still be on her agenda to eliminate Ozpinâs influence and secure the Relic of Choice, but her focus would shift to consolidating power in Vale or Mistral, where she has operated successfully. Her ultimate goal is to rule as a tyrannical queen, using her Maiden powers and subordinates to enforce her will.
Motivation: Mercury is a skilled assassin raised in violence by his father, Marcus, who stole his Semblance (Pages 134-135). He lacks personal ambition beyond survival and thriving in chaos, making him a loyal enforcer. His brutal honesty and lack of attachment to Cinder emotionally (Page 135) suggest he stays with her for the promise of power and security.
Role: Mercury would serve as Cinderâs primary muscle, handling combat and assassination missions. His ability to fight experienced Huntsmen like Yang and Pyrrha (Page 134) makes him invaluable for taking out rivals or Maidens. His prosthetic legs and combat prowess ensure he can execute Cinderâs orders efficiently.
Loyalty: Mercuryâs loyalty is pragmatic, not emotional. He might defect to Watts if offered a better deal, but his familiarity with Cinder and her faction makes him likely to stay initially.
Motivation: Emerald is driven by a misguided loyalty to Cinder, believing Cinder cares for her (Page 135). Her Semblance, which creates hallucinations, is useful for manipulation and deception (Page 135). However, her eventual defection from Salemâs group after learning of Salemâs true goal (Page 109) suggests she could waver if Cinderâs actions become too extreme.
Role: Emerald would be Cinderâs spy and manipulator, using her Semblance to deceive enemies, gather intelligence, or create chaos. Her skills complement Cinderâs need for covert operations to locate Maidens or undermine rivals.
Loyalty: Emeraldâs emotional attachment to Cinder keeps her loyal, but her moral qualms could lead to conflict if Cinderâs pursuit of power becomes too destructive. She might eventually defect if Cinder betrays her trust, as seen with Neo (Page 160).
Motivation: Roman is a self-serving crime lord who values wealth, control, and his partnership with Neo (Pages 163-165). He joined Cinder originally because he saw her as a winning bet (Page 166), but his loyalty is conditional. His hatred for teamwork and preference for working with Neo (Page 165) suggest he would only stay with Cinder if it benefits him.
Role: Roman would manage Cinderâs criminal operations, such as Dust thefts or black-market dealings, leveraging his experience as a Gentleman Thief (Page 165). His tactical pragmatism and ability to manipulate situations (Page 164) make him ideal for organizing Cinderâs power base in cities like Vale or Mistral.
Loyalty: Romanâs loyalty is tied to Neo and his own survival. He might tolerate Cinderâs leadership for the promise of power, but if Watts offers a better deal or if Cinder threatens Neo, Roman could betray her.
Motivation: Neoâs primary drive is her loyalty to Roman, whom she sees as her only true ally (Pages 155, 164). After Romanâs death in the canon timeline, she seeks revenge against Ruby (Pages 156-157), but in this scenario, Roman is alive, keeping her grounded. Her Semblance, which allows her to create illusions and, in some contexts, physical constructs (Page 157), makes her a versatile asset.
Role: Neo would be Cinderâs stealth operative and assassin, using her illusions to infiltrate, deceive, or eliminate targets. Her graceful fighting style and ability to take down strong opponents like Yang (Page 151) make her a key player in Cinderâs plans to hunt Maidens or sabotage rivals.
Loyalty: Neoâs loyalty is primarily to Roman, not Cinder. She would follow Romanâs lead, staying with Cinder only if he does. If Cinder betrays Roman or if Watts offers a better deal, Neo could switch sides, especially given her history of being betrayed by Cinder (Page 160).
Potential Recruits for Cinderâs Faction:
Lilâ Miss Malachite and the Spider Syndicate (Pages 81-84):
Motivation: Lilâ Miss is a gangster leader in Mistral who values information and loyalty over money (Page 84). Her Spider Syndicate deals in espionage and organized crime, making them a natural fit for Cinderâs criminal empire.
Why Join Cinder?: Cinderâs operations in Mistral (e.g., her actions during the Battle of Haven, Page 46) align with Lilâ Missâs territory. Cinder could offer Lilâ Miss power and influence in exchange for her spy network and resources. Lilâ Missâs daughters, Melanie and Miltia Malachite, could also be leveraged due to their combat skills and training at Lady Browningâs Academy (Page 83).
Role: Lilâ Miss would provide intelligence and logistical support, managing Cinderâs operations in Mistral. Her daughters could serve as enforcers or bodyguards.
Likelihood: High. Lilâ Missâs pragmatic approach and lack of moral qualms make her a good match for Cinderâs ruthless leadership. However, her emphasis on loyalty could cause friction if Cinderâs betrayals (e.g., Neo, Watts) become known.
Junior Xiong and the Xiong Family (Pages 76-79):
Motivation: Junior is a crime lord in Vale who manages a club and leads the Xiong Family (Page 78). Heâs pragmatic, easily intimidated, and motivated by profit and survival (Page 79).
Why Join Cinder?: Junior has worked with Cinder before (e.g., during the Dust thefts in Vale, Page 78) and fears her power. With Roman already in Cinderâs faction, Junior might join to avoid conflict and gain protection from Wattsâ technological threats. Cinder could promise him control over Valeâs underworld.
Role: Junior would handle Cinderâs operations in Vale, coordinating Dust thefts and managing her criminal network. His henchmen could serve as foot soldiers.
Likelihood: Moderate. Juniorâs fear of Cinder and past collaboration make him likely to join, but his gullibility and preference for hiding behind henchmen (Page 78) could make him unreliable. He might defect to Watts if offered a better deal.
Vermillion Raddock (Pages 89-90):
Motivation: Vermillion is a dangerous criminal affiliated with Salemâs Inner Circle and the Hana Guild, seeking magical artifacts (Page 89). His Semblance, Semblance Share, allows him to enhance alliesâ abilities, making him a strategic asset.
Why Join Cinder?: Vermillionâs pursuit of magical artifacts aligns with Cinderâs quest for Maiden powers, as both involve seeking powerful relics. Cinder could offer him access to her Maiden powers or promise him artifacts in exchange for loyalty. His prior affiliation with Salemâs Inner Circle (Page 108) suggests heâs comfortable working under a powerful leader like Cinder.
Role: Vermillion would be a combat and strategic asset, using his Semblance to boost Cinderâs allies (e.g., Mercury, Neo) during battles against Maidens or Wattsâ forces. His experience with the Hana Guild could help Cinder navigate Mistralâs criminal underworld.
Likelihood: High. Vermillionâs lack of loyalty to any specific cause and his power-hungry nature make him a natural fit for Cinderâs faction, especially if she offers him artifacts or power.
The Wave (Former Members: Sil, Marton, Mina Lavender, Khaki) (Pages 84-88, 95, 110-111):
Motivation: The Wave was a Mistral-based crime syndicate dealing in stolen goods and magical artifacts (Page 85). After Lemonâs death and the groupâs disbandment (Page 87), its surviving members (Team SMMK: Sil, Marton, Mina Lavender, Khaki) are rogue Huntsmen with no clear allegiance.
Why Join Cinder?: Team SMMKâs lack of loyalty to the Wave (Page 111) and their criminal background make them prime candidates for Cinderâs faction. Cinder could offer them wealth, power, or magical artifacts, appealing to their self-indulgent and theatrical nature (Page 95). Their rivalry with Team SAFR (Page 96) could motivate them to join Cinder to settle scores.
Role: Team SMMK would serve as versatile operatives, with Martonâs Dust Nullification Semblance and club (Page 111) providing tactical advantages in combat. They could handle missions involving theft, espionage, or artifact recovery in Mistral.
Likelihood: High. Their criminal tendencies and lack of loyalty make them likely to join Cinder for profit and power. However, their self-indulgent nature could lead to conflicts with Cinderâs controlling leadership.
Sienna Khan (If Alive) (Pages 97-100):
Motivation: As the former High Leader of the White Fang, Sienna advocated for violent resistance against human prejudice (Page 99). If she survived Adamâs coup (Page 98), she would likely seek to rebuild the White Fang and continue her fight for Faunus rights.
Why Join Cinder?: Siennaâs violent ideology aligns with Cinderâs ruthless methods. Cinder could offer Sienna resources and power to restore the White Fang, using their forces to bolster her own. However, Siennaâs focus on Faunus rights might clash with Cinderâs self-centered goals.
Role: Sienna could lead a White Fang contingent under Cinder, providing fighters and ideological support. Her Cerberus Whip and combat skills (Page 100) would make her a formidable ally in battles against Watts or Huntsmen.
Likelihood: Moderate. Siennaâs pride and commitment to the Faunus cause might make her wary of Cinderâs manipulative nature. She could join temporarily for resources but might break away to form an independent White Fang faction.
Core Members: Arthur Watts (Leader), Tyrian Callows, Hazel Rainart
Wattsâ Goals and Leadership Style:
Motivation: Watts is a disgraced Atlesian scientist driven by a desire for revenge against Ironwood and a need to prove his genius (Pages 118-120). With Salem gone, he is free to pursue his goal of remaking the world in his image, likely through technological dominance and control over Atlasâs systems. His expertise in hacking, virus creation, and robotics (Pages 117-120) positions him as a mastermind who seeks to outsmart his enemies rather than overpower them.
Leadership Style: Watts is formal, sophisticated, and pragmatic, but also arrogant and condescending (Page 119). He values intelligence and efficiency, making him appealing to those who share his disdain for emotional or chaotic leadership (like Cinderâs). His faction would attract those who prioritize strategy, technology, or revenge against Atlas.
Plans Without Salem: Watts would likely focus on seizing control of Atlasâs technological infrastructure, using his hacking skills to manipulate Mantleâs security network (Page 121) and create a new world order under his control. He might aim to undermine Huntsman Academies and establish a technocratic regime, leveraging his knowledge of Atlasâs systems and his disdain for Ironwoodâs leadership (Page 119).
Motivation: Tyrian is a sadistic serial killer and scorpion Faunus who worships destruction, seeing Salem as âdestruction incarnateâ (Page 145). Without Salem, he might latch onto Watts as a new figure to serve, drawn to Wattsâ vision of chaos through technological upheaval. His Ax-Crazy personality and love for violence (Page 142) make him a dangerous ally.
Role: Tyrian would be Wattsâ primary enforcer and assassin, using his speed, strength, and scorpion tail (Page 146) to eliminate threats like Huntsmen or Cinderâs allies. His ability to evade detection (Page 147) makes him ideal for covert operations or terrorizing enemies.
Loyalty: Tyrianâs loyalty to Salem was based on her destructive goals. Wattsâ pragmatic villainy might not fully satisfy Tyrianâs bloodlust, but his promise of chaos and power could keep Tyrian loyal temporarily. Tyrian might defect if Wattsâ plans become too cerebral or if Cinder offers more opportunities for violence.
Motivation: Hazelâs primary drive is his hatred for Ozpin, whom he blames for his sister Gretchenâs death at Beacon (Pages 129-132). His Semblance, which blocks pain and allows him to supercharge with Dust (Page 125), makes him a formidable fighter. His aversion to unnecessary violence (Page 127) and eventual Heel-Face Turn in the canon timeline (Page 129) suggest he might struggle with Wattsâ ruthless pragmatism.
Role: Hazel would serve as Wattsâ tank, using his immense strength and pain resistance to overpower enemies in direct combat. His strategic mind could assist Watts in planning attacks on Atlas or Huntsman Academies.
Loyalty: Hazelâs inclusion in Wattsâ faction is tentative, as his hatred for Ozpin might not align with Wattsâ technological goals. He could join Cinder instead, especially if she targets Ozpin or Huntsman Academies. His moral qualms might lead him to defect or form an independent faction focused on destroying Ozpinâs legacy.
Potential Recruits for Wattsâ Faction:
Motivation: Fort Lee was a theatrical CEO of Starhead Industrial Company and a member of the Silver Bullet Brotherhood, obsessed with dramatic flair and technological power (Page 61). His cybernetic enhancements, arm cannon, and Shadow Trap Semblance (Page 60) align with Wattsâ technological focus.
Why Join Watts?: Fort Leeâs love for advanced technology and his leadership of a company involved in robotics (Page 60) make him a natural ally for Watts. Watts could offer Fort Lee access to Atlasâs tech or the chance to rebuild his industrial empire. Fort Leeâs dramatic personality might clash with Wattsâ pragmatism, but their shared interest in technology would bridge the gap.
Role: Fort Lee would develop and deploy advanced weapons or drones for Watts, enhancing his technological arsenal. His combat skills and Semblance could be used in battles against Cinderâs forces or Atlasâs military.
Likelihood: High. Fort Leeâs technological expertise and theatrical nature make him a strong fit for Wattsâ vision of a tech-driven world. His status as deceased in the canon timeline is irrelevant in this scenario, assuming heâs alive.
Dr. Merlot (Pages 112-114):
Motivation: Dr. Merlot is a scientist obsessed with Grimm and artificial intelligence, conducting experiments to create mutant Grimm and advanced androids (Page 113). His disregard for human life and focus on scientific achievement (Page 114) align with Wattsâ intellectual arrogance.
Why Join Watts?: Merlotâs fascination with AI and Grimm experimentation complements Wattsâ hacking and robotics expertise. Watts could offer Merlot resources to continue his experiments, promising him a role in shaping a new world order. Their shared disdain for Atlasâs leadership (Page 114 for Merlot, Page 119 for Watts) makes them natural allies.
Role: Merlot would lead Wattsâ research and development, creating mutant Grimm or androids to bolster his forces. His knowledge of Grimm could counter Cinderâs Maiden powers or Huntsman threats.
Likelihood: Very High. Merlotâs scientific mindset and lack of moral constraints make him an ideal partner for Watts. Their collaboration could lead to devastating technological and biological weapons.
Atlas Conspiracy (Bram Thormmane, Amoncio Glass, Hanlon Fifestone, Olive Harper) (Pages 12-13, 29-32, 70-73):
Bram Thormmane: A Huntsman and leader of a conspiracy against Ironwood, motivated by resentment for not being chosen for a higher role (Page 31). His Trajectory Control Semblance and leadership skills (Page 30) make him a strategic asset.
Amoncio Glass: An Atlas elite involved in shady businesses, seeking power through military technology (Page 12). His wealth and connections make him valuable.
Hanlon Fifestone: A former Atlas soldier and union leader with a Raw Emotion Semblance, aiming to reduce tensions between Atlas and Mantle (Page 71). His idealism could conflict with Wattsâ pragmatism.
Olive Harper: A mole in the Atlas Military, working with Thormmane to undermine Ironwood (Page 31). Her loyalty is to Thormmane, not ideology.
Why Join Watts?: The Atlas conspiracyâs shared goal of undermining Ironwood aligns perfectly with Wattsâ vendetta (Page 119). Watts could offer Thormmane leadership in his new regime, Glass access to military tech, Fifestone a platform for his social reforms, and Harper a chance to continue her covert operations. Their familiarity with Atlasâs systems makes them ideal for Wattsâ technological takeover.
Thormmane: Strategic commander, leading Wattsâ military operations against Atlas or Cinderâs forces. His Semblance enhances ranged attacks, complementing Wattsâ tech.
Glass: Financial and logistical support, using his wealth and connections to fund Wattsâ projects and secure tech.
Fifestone: Propaganda and morale leader, using his Raw Emotion Semblance to rally support or destabilize enemies.
Harper: Spy and infiltrator, manipulating Atlasâs systems to Wattsâ advantage.
Likelihood: Very High. The conspiracyâs anti-Ironwood stance and technological focus make them a perfect fit for Watts. Fifestoneâs idealism might cause friction, but Wattsâ promise of reform could keep him in line temporarily.
Gillian Asturias and Jax Asturias (Pages 64-66, 73-75):
Motivation: The Asturias twins are former Shade Academy Huntsmen with royal ambitions, believing they are descendants of Vacuoâs first king (Page 75). Gillianâs Aura Siphon Semblance and Jaxâs Mind Control Semblance (Pages 66, 74) make them powerful allies. Their affiliation with Salemâs Inner Circle (Page 108) shows their willingness to work with ambitious leaders.
Why Join Watts?: Wattsâ vision of a new world order could appeal to the twinsâ desire to restore the Vacuan monarchy. His technological resources could enhance their Semblances, especially Jaxâs Mind Control, for large-scale manipulation. Their prior affiliation with Salem suggests theyâd align with a strategic leader like Watts over Cinderâs volatile leadership.
Role: Gillian would be a combat and support asset, using her Aura Siphon to weaken enemies or boost allies. Jax would manipulate and control key figures (e.g., Huntsmen, political leaders) to expand Wattsâ influence. Their leadership of The Crown (Page 65) could bring additional forces to Wattsâ side.
Likelihood: High. The twinsâ ambitions and Semblances align with Wattsâ strategic approach. However, Jaxâs arrogance and delusions of grandeur (Page 75) might lead to conflicts with Wattsâ own ego.
Independent/Other Factions
Some characters and groups may not align with either Cinder or Watts due to their own agendas, moral conflicts, or lack of compatibility. These factions could operate independently or form new alliances.
The White Fang (Adam Taurus, Fennec Albain, Corsac Albain, Trifa, Deery) (Pages 1-6, 56-58, 94, 97-100):
Motivation: The White Fang is a Faunus rights organization turned militant under Sienna Khan and later Adam Taurus (Page 98). Adamâs obsessive vendetta against Blake and humanity (Page 5) makes him a wildcard, while Fennec, Corsac, Trifa, and Deery are loyal to the Faunus cause but vary in their extremism.
Why Independent?: Adamâs violent, possessive personality and takeover of the White Fang (Page 7) suggest he would reject both Cinder and Watts, preferring to lead his own faction. His Semblance, Moonslice, and combat skills (Page 6) make him a formidable leader. Fennec and Corsacâs manipulative nature (Page 58) could see them trying to rebuild the White Fang independently, while Trifa and Deeryâs loyalty to the cause (Pages 94, 56) might keep them with Adam or a reformed White Fang under Sienna (if alive).
Role: The White Fang could operate as a terrorist group, targeting human institutions and possibly clashing with both Cinder and Watts. Adamâs obsession with Blake could lead to attacks on Team RWBY, complicating Cinderâs plans.
Likelihood: High. Adamâs ego and the White Fangâs ideological focus make them unlikely to submit to Cinder or Watts. They might form temporary alliances with either faction for resources but would prioritize their own agenda.
Branwen Tribe (Raven Branwen, Vernal, Shay D. Mann) (Pages 33-34, 91-92, 100-102):
Motivation: The Branwen Tribe is an outlaw gang led by Raven Branwen, surviving by raiding villages (Page 34). Vernal, a decoy Spring Maiden, and Shay, a bandit, follow Ravenâs pragmatic leadership (Pages 91, 101). Ravenâs distrust of authority (Page 124) and focus on her tribeâs survival make her a wildcard.
Why Independent?: Ravenâs refusal to bow to Salem (Page 124) and her focus on her tribeâs autonomy suggest she would reject both Cinder and Watts. Her Maiden powers (if she retains them) make her a significant threat. Vernalâs loyalty to Raven (Page 92) and Shayâs incompetence (Page 103) tie them to her leadership.
Role: The Branwen Tribe would continue raiding and avoiding larger conflicts, potentially clashing with Cinder or Watts if their territories overlap. Raven might pursue her own agenda, possibly seeking Relics or Maiden powers for her tribeâs benefit.
Likelihood: Very High. Ravenâs independence and power make her unlikely to join either faction. She might negotiate temporary alliances but would prioritize her tribeâs survival.
Hana Guild (Vermillion Raddock, Abigail Pyre) (Pages 9-10, 67-69, 89-90):
Motivation: The Hana Guild is a Mistral-based crime syndicate dealing in narcotics and magical artifacts (Page 67). Vermillion is already considered for Cinderâs faction, but Abigail Pyre, a former assassin with an Ethereal Hand Semblance (Page 10), could operate independently if she survived her canon death (Page 9).
Why Independent?: Abigailâs untrustworthy and mischievous nature (Page 10) suggests she might avoid both Cinder and Watts, preferring to work alone or reform the Hana Guild. Her Semblance makes her adept at pickpocketing and covert operations, ideal for a rogue criminal.
Role: Abigail could lead a revived Hana Guild, focusing on artifact theft and avoiding direct conflict with Cinder or Watts. She might target both factions for their resources, using her Semblance to steal artifacts or intel.
Likelihood: Moderate. Abigailâs criminal nature makes her a potential recruit for Cinder, but her independence and survival instincts could lead her to form a separate faction, especially if she distrusts Cinderâs volatility or Wattsâ arrogance.
Beatrix Browning (Lady Beat) (Pages 27-28):
Motivation: Lady Beat is a former headmistress and Spider member who trained Neo and values psychological manipulation (Page 28). Her allegiance to Lilâ Miss Malachite (Page 28) ties her to the Spider Syndicate, but her independent streak suggests she could break away.
Why Independent?: Lady Beatâs focus on self-preservation and her belief in hiding her Semblance (Page 27) make her unlikely to fully commit to Cinder or Watts. Her psychological expertise could make her a dangerous manipulator working behind the scenes.
Role: Lady Beat could operate as a rogue agent, manipulating both factions for her own gain or reforming her academy to train new operatives. She might ally with Lilâ Miss but could also strike out on her own.
Likelihood: Moderate. Her ties to Spider make her a potential recruit for Cinder, but her cunning and independence suggest sheâd prefer to play both sides or remain neutral.
Argento Pocoron and The Crown (Pages 13-15):
Motivation: Argento is a pig Faunus and former Huntsman loyal to The Crown, led by the Asturias twins (Page 14). His support for their royal ambitions and willingness to kidnap for their cause (Page 15) tie him to their goals, but without Gillian and Jax (who may join Watts), he could lead The Crown independently.
Why Independent?: If Gillian and Jax join Watts, Argento might take over The Crown to continue their Vacuan restoration plans. His Semblance, Lag, and combat skills (Page 15) make him capable of leading a small faction.
Role: Argento could lead The Crown in guerrilla attacks against Vacuoâs government or other factions, seeking to establish a new monarchy. He might clash with Cinder or Watts if their plans threaten Vacuo.
Likelihood: Moderate. Argentoâs loyalty to The Crown makes him likely to follow Gillian and Jax to Wattsâ faction, but if they split, he could lead a splinter group to pursue their original goals.
Carmine Esclados (Pages 35-40):
Motivation: Carmine is a former Huntress who deserted Atlas to join The Crown, valuing individual freedom and loyalty to Gillian Asturias (Page 38). Her Semblance and combat skills make her a strong fighter (Page 37).
Why Independent?: Carmineâs emphasis on freedom and her desertion from Atlas (Page 38) suggest she might reject both Cinderâs tyranny and Wattsâ technocracy. Her loyalty to Gillian could tie her to Wattsâ faction, but if Gillian joins Watts, Carmine might break away to protect her own ideals.
Role: Carmine could lead a rogue group of former Huntsmen, focusing on protecting Vacuo or pursuing personal freedom. Her combat prowess would make her a significant threat to both factions.
Likelihood: Moderate. Her loyalty to Gillian makes her likely to join Watts, but her love for freedom could lead her to form an independent faction if she distrusts Wattsâ motives.
Analysis of Faction Dynamics
Cinderâs Faction Strengths:
Combat Power: Cinderâs Maiden powers, combined with Mercury, Neo, and Vermillionâs combat skills, make her faction formidable in direct confrontations. The White Fang (if Sienna joins) and Spider Syndicate add numbers and criminal expertise.
Criminal Networks: Roman, Junior, and Lilâ Miss provide access to Vale and Mistralâs underworld, giving Cinder resources and intelligence.
Weaknesses: Cinderâs volatile leadership and tendency to betray allies (e.g., Neo, Watts) could cause defections. Her focus on Maiden powers might distract from broader strategic goals, making her vulnerable to Wattsâ calculated approach.
Wattsâ Faction Strengths:
Technological Superiority: Watts, Fort Lee, and Merlotâs expertise in hacking, robotics, and Grimm experimentation give them an edge in controlling Atlasâs infrastructure and creating advanced weapons.
Strategic Planning: Wattsâ pragmatism, combined with Thormmaneâs leadership and the Asturias twinsâ Semblances, makes his faction adept at long-term planning and manipulation.
Weaknesses: Wattsâ arrogance and condescension (Page 119) could alienate allies like Tyrian or Hazel, who crave action over strategy. His lack of raw combat power compared to Cinderâs Maiden abilities could be a liability in direct conflicts.
Independent Factionsâ Impact:
The White Fang, led by Adam or Sienna, could disrupt both Cinder and Watts by targeting human institutions, creating chaos that complicates their plans.
The Branwen Tribeâs raids could destabilize regions, forcing Cinder or Watts to divert resources to protect their territories.
Smaller factions like the Hana Guild, Lady Beat, or The Crown could act as wildcards, allying with or betraying either side based on their own interests.
Likely Conflicts and Outcomes
Cinderâs pursuit of Maiden powers would pit her against Watts if he controls Atlas, where the Winter Maiden resides. Wattsâ technological arsenal, bolstered by Merlot and Fort Lee, could counter Cinderâs magic, but her raw power and criminal allies give her an edge in direct combat.
Watts might use his hacking skills to sabotage Cinderâs operations, while Cinder could deploy Neo and Emerald to infiltrate Wattsâ bases. The conflict would likely be a prolonged war of attrition, with Wattsâ strategy clashing against Cinderâs brute force.
Independent Factionsâ Role:
The White Fang could exploit the chaos to attack both factions, weakening their hold on key regions. Adamâs obsession with Blake might lead to reckless attacks on Team RWBY, inadvertently aiding Watts by distracting Cinder.
Ravenâs Branwen Tribe could play both sides, offering temporary alliances to whichever faction offers the most resources. Her Maiden powers make her a significant threat if she engages directly.
Smaller factions like the Hana Guild or The Crown could tip the balance by aligning with one side or acting as spoilers, stealing resources or artifacts.
Cinderâs Victory: If Cinder secures all Maiden powers, her faction could overwhelm Wattsâ technological advantages. However, her betrayals might lead to defections (e.g., Neo, Roman), weakening her long-term control.
Wattsâ Victory: If Watts consolidates control over Atlas and develops advanced weapons with Merlot and Fort Lee, he could outmaneuver Cinderâs chaotic leadership. However, his lack of combat power might leave him vulnerable to Cinderâs direct assaults.
Stalemate/Fragmentation: The presence of independent factions like the White Fang and Branwen Tribe could prevent either side from achieving total victory, leading to a fractured Remnant where multiple groups vie for control.
In the absence of Salem, Cinder Fall and Arthur Watts emerge as the primary leaders of two opposing factions, each leveraging their unique strengths and allies to pursue their ambitions. Cinderâs faction, built on raw power and criminal networks, includes Mercury, Emerald, Roman, Neo, and potentially Lilâ Miss Malachite, Junior Xiong, Vermillion Raddock, Team SMMK, and Sienna Khan. Wattsâ faction, centered on technological dominance and strategic planning, comprises Tyrian, Hazel, Fort Lee, Dr. Merlot, the Atlas conspiracy (Thormmane, Glass, Fifestone, Harper), and possibly the Asturias twins. Independent factions like the White Fang, Branwen Tribe, Hana Guild, Lady Beat, and The Crown could disrupt both sides, creating a complex power struggle.
Cinderâs pursuit of Maiden powers and Wattsâ technological takeover set the stage for a conflict between brute force and calculated strategy, with independent factions acting as wildcards. The outcome depends on how each leader manages their alliesâ loyalties and navigates the chaos of a Salem-less Remnant.