Board Thread:General Discussion/@comment-25266931-20170126040344/@comment-28288412-20170208222318

(Strokes chin)

I forgot to factor in Hazel's past association with Ozpin... If we are to presume Hazel lives a normal human lifespan than unless he is ridiculously older than he looks he likely knew Professor Ozpin and not his predecessor. In which case, he was more than likely connected to one of the academies A lot of potential, but it narrows things down.

Anyway, as for the hierarchy there are possible speculations. Hazel on bottom due to having a past connection to Ozpin leading him to be the relatively least trustworthy of the group or generally not caring about rank. Tyrian cares somewhat but he is devout enough to accept any position and putting him above bottom would keep him in a good and appreciative mood. Watts is second due to needing the most convincing but his skills justify the effort and Cinder is where she is due to being Salem's actual most important living resource due to maiden powers.