Volume 3 of RWBY has ended fans have been counting down the days to the start of Volume 4, which premiered this weekend (October 22, 2016). This is primarily due to how Volume 3 ended with a cliffhanger leaving fans wondering what will happen next. These questions set the perfect stage for Volume 4 to begin, which has set out to answer some of questions.
Volume 3 recap:
Volume 3 of RWBY is responsible for changing the rating of the anime from being all age-friendly to an adult rating. The main focus of the anime is on Cinder pursuing the power of the fall maiden, which she had partially absorbed. As a result she has infiltrated Beacon Academy, with Emerald and Mercury, to find and absorb the rest of her power. While at Beacon Academy Cinder begins to manipulate students and faculty to help her find the fall maiden. Cinder finds the fall maiden and orchestrates an attack on Beacon with help from the White Fang and the Grimm with the goal to absorb the fall maiden and destroying Beacon. This results in Pyrrha absorbing the fall maiden’s power to fight against Cinder, who then absorbs the remainder of the fall maiden’s powers. As this is occurring Yang and Blake fought Adam, which resulted in Yang’s arm being cut off. Witnessing and feeling both of these fights Ruby unleashed a unique power that forced Cinder, the White Fang, and the remaining troops at Beacon to retreat. As a result of the attack on Beacon, it has attracted countless Grimm creatures and is no longer fit to serve as an educational institution. Due to the events that have transpired from the attack on Beacon both team RWBY and team JNPR are experiencing losses.
What to expect for Volume 4:
Volume 4 of RWBY makes it clear from the start what is expected for the season. The anime introduces a new set of enemies in Salem’s faction. Starting with the leader, Salem, who is responsible for giving Cinder her orders including attacking Beacon. Furthermore, Salem’s faction includes Dr. Watts, Hazel, and Tyrian who are all given mission, which will help to destroy the next major area in Vale. In particular Tyrian is tasked with finding Ruby and is ordered to bring her to Salem alive, thus making it clear that the two will cross paths in this season. The anime also makes it a point to establish that team RWBY is disbanded as Ruby has joined team JNPR as their 4th member. As a team they are attempting to find out more information about Cinder and the maidens. It is revealed that each character has received an upgrade on their weapons, skills, and abilities, indicating that each character has grown significantly and will continue to do just that. These upgrades seem to indicate that another big battle will occur as Salem’s faction is after Ruby and the team she is currently with, effectively conveying that her faction is a real threat.
RWBY Volume 3 can be purchased here.
