This chapter has been edited by Maestro of Madness! All credits for better spelling and grammar went to him!
Chapter 3. Days in Beacon, Pt. 1
Jaune let out a hum as he moved his skillet, flinging the meat he was cooking up, flipping in the air for a moment before it landed back in the pan cleanly.
If there were a few things he and EMIYA shared and can agree with, cooking is one of them. From what he got from the dream of EMIYA's life, Jaune always enjoyed cooking, his mother made sure he can cook while his father taught him how to grill things to make sure the food is tasty in the mouth despite the ingredients being simple.
It was just one day after the initiation, today the students will have their first class. If he recalled this year there were eight teams that passed, which means there thirty-two students, not that much actually but Beacon itself is quite strict in picking students, most of them that passed at least have some specialty.
That Winchester child for example, he possesses' a large amount of Aura, one that stands out among most of his peers and he also seems to have above average strength and endurance, he could pretty much tango with four Ursa by himself in the Emerald Forest.
He was supposed to go with Peter today in his first class with the first years before going to Oobleck's class about history for the second years. Right now he was cooking in a private kitchen that was given for teachers if they wish to make food or drinks on their own.
'Should I make a lunch box for Jeanne as well? I mean, the food in the cafeteria is good and healthy but...' He knows that Jeanne loves his cooking, and what makes Jaune love cooking for her is that she looks like Saber. While not identically the same -seeing as Jeanne had more of a bust- but was she close to. And in EMIYA's life, the girl that was closest to him was Saber, seconded by Sakura Matou then Rin Tohsaka... 'No, the first one that was closest was Fujimura Taiga.' He thought with a sweat drop as he recalled the Tiger of Fuyuki, Saber is the second and followed by the others.
Speaking about Saber...
'I wonder how she is doing huh? The last time I met her she seemed kinda off.' A hooded figure briefly flashed in his mind, thinking about her Jaune can't help but smile. They just met two or three times but they had become quite good friends, albeit they were not the best ones but Jaune was sure she will come to his aid if he needed it and the same thing would occur to her. 'Well, she is strong. I don't call her Saber for nothing after all, so I guess I am not need to worry. But still, I will contact her just in case.'
"Professor Arc?"
Jaune turned around to see one of the professors, the one who taught in Combat class to be precise. The woman now was already clad in her teaching uniform.
"Ah, good morning professor Goodwitch." Jaune greeted before he made a gesture to his skillet and the pot that was now steaming. "Tea, coffee, milk, hot chocolate or strawberry milk?" He offered.
Glynda blinked, her eyes roaming to the young man in front of her. Instead of being clad in his teaching uniform the man was now wearing a casual long sleeved t-shirt with black colors on the shoulder and behind while the front part is red. He also wore a simple pair of long black colored gym training pants... And he also wore an apron... A pink apron with the face of chibi Beowolf.
"I... Will take a tea." She said in an unsure tone.
"Good." Jaune smiled kindly. "It's on the left corner." He informed while making a gesture to the pot he mentioned.
"Sure." Glynda nodded, might as well try it. This far the professor had not shown any disappointment, who knew, maybe he was a good cook as well?
Jaune only chuckled, he must admit Beacon Academy truly served well. The ingredients for food was vast and it available to use! It wasn't called the best academy for nothing!
"Are you always awake this early professor Arc?" Glynda asked as she sit down at the table while placing the tea she had just taken.
"Yes. In the morning I often help my mother prepare food for everyone, though sometimes it was only me." Jaune shrugged as he flipped the scrambled egg in the air before it landed back in the pan.
"You do realize we have a cafeteria right?" Glynda asked with a quirked eyebrow as she took a sip of her tea and... Found it surprisingly good... Very good in fact. She stared at the tea with eyes widened a bit. As a matter of fact, this was one of the best tea she ever drank!
Oblivious to the woman's thoughts, Jaune shrugged while placing the egg he made into the lunch box that contained fried rice, vegetables and grilled meat, he planned to give this to Jeanne if she doesn't want it then he can eat it by himself later. "What can I say? It's my habit. Besides, I love cooking, it can be called a hobby." He said with a smile. "Sandwich Professor Goodwitch?" He offered as he placed the sandwich in front of her, he planned to eat it by himself for breakfast but he can make more later.
"Thank you." Glynda took the sandwich and took a bite of it... "Professor Arc, have you ever thought of becoming a chef?" She asked, the food is good. And Glynda also noted that the young man was also using the simplest of ingredients, one that was not expensive and yet... The food taste can rival the ones that come from a five-star hotel! This is clearly something!
"I did, my oldest sister also asked me about it but..." Jaune shook his head. "I wish to become a Huntsman. To help and save people." He gave a small smile.
"That is quite..." Glynda trailed off, it was a bit noble however at the same time the way he spoke about it is... Immature for some reason.
Jaune must know at least the summary of what she thought as he gave her a polite smile. "I know this World is actually harsh, but because its harsh someone must try to change it. Even if it is hard, but if many people are willing to do it, then I sure someday we will make peace happen in this World."
Glynda can do nothing but stare when heard those words leave his mouth. That was inspiring in some way... She dared even said it was very mature and charming... And yet... For some reason there was a small nagging feeling inside her...
It was his voice... The way he spoke... The tone he used... Should not be used by a child... A child that had not even passed his teen years...
But she brushed it off. Thinking it was only a small moment, while true it should not be spoken by a child, but children can speak what they like, they are all still young after all. And the man in front of her was still so despite him possessing adult power. That's why he was here right now, to be guided as well.
"That is admirable Professor Arc." Glynda offer a small and approving smile to him.
"Thank you." Jaune chuckled. "How about you Professor Goodwitch? Are you always awake this early?"
"Yes. Usually I make morning tea." Glynda answered. "And I must say Professor Arc, you know how to make tea." She complimented.
"Thank you again." Jaune gives a kind smile to her. "I can always make this for you if you wish, we both awake early after all."
Glynda narrowed her eyebrows, while the offer is tempting it could be interpreted wrong. She eyed the young man, tracing any intent trying to get close to her that came from him. She was not interested in him in that way after all, it was not like he is not handsome or cute, he has the face but he is simply too young. The difference between their ages must be seven years or more perhaps. She was fine if he was only younger by two or three but seven? That was something else!
But she found there was no trace of him trying to get close to her. He was simply offering to make tea for her and... Well... A good tea is always welcome, and she also needed it to calm her mind, Gods know she needed it. Being deputy of an academy, dealing with Ozpin and everything...
Yeah, she definitely deserved this...
"I'd love to."
"Morning my boy!" Port greeted with a big smile as he watched the young professor enter his class.
"Morning to you too Professor Port." Jaune greeted back politely, already clad in his teaching uniform.
"Always polite! Ha! I like it!" Port chuckled. "So, looking forward to your first day?"
"Kind of." Jaune nodded, his eyes roaming to the classroom. There were many antique drawings of the various known species of Grimm shown. Jaune noted there were Beowolves and Ursa in there. He was standing at the front part of the student's desk and he was currently looking around the room he was standing in noticing it is quite large actually, he noticed there was... a cage? And is that cage... shaking? ... Judging by what the old Hunter taught could it be... "Professor Port."
"Yes, my boy?" The round professor asked.
"Is that a Grimm inside the cage?"
"Hohoho, notice it haven't you? Yes." Port nodded "There nothing that beats the practical method! Fairing them against Grimm itself is the best!"
"Oh..." Jaune can agree with that actually. While true it can be considered dangerous but this is Beacon Academy. This is the best school in Vale so the curriculum of course is harsh as well. But still, he can't help but feel worried. "The Grimm inside... What is it?"
"Ah, worried aren't you?" Port chuckled. "No need to worry, it is only a Boarbatusk! Not an old one of course, a young one but it possesses strength of a mature one so it won't be too dangerous."
"I see." Jaune nodded in understanding as he glanced at the two-meter long cage.
"Besides, if something happens I will intercept. Of course with you here I think it would be unnecessary." Port said while giving a look to Jaune who only smiled politely "Ah, the students are here."
Jaune watched as the students one by one entered the class and started taking seats. The young professor only stood on Port's side, he noticed there many students that offered him a smile and he returned it kindly, few shot him a nasty look before turning their faces away but he paid no mind to them, only gave polite smile and a nod.
It was a few minutes later that he noticed the class was about to begin, he gave a look to Port who nodded to him while gesturing to the door, telling him it was time to close it. As Jaune made his way, he about to close the door when it slammed open with force that was strong enough to make it fling open, making Jaune's body unconsciously move.
"MADE-EEK!"
Just when Ruby slammed the door open and run forward, her arm was grabbed from below, followed by another hand tracing her stomach before she felt herself being flipped and in less than a second she was flying in air, her eyes widened when saw there was some kind of giant steel cage in front of her and-
"GECK!"
Ruby let out a strangled gasp as she felt the grip on her hood strengthen for a moment as if it was being used to choke her. She glanced up and saw Professor Port had caught her hood with one hand, rising her almost to his eye level and prevented her from crashing to the steel cage that was only a few inches away from her face.
"That was a good fly young one." Port said with a small grin, appearing to be not even disturbed by the girl's weight as he held her like some kind of plastic bag.
"Err, thank you?" Ruby said meekly, her mind still trying to comprehend just what exactly happened.
"Oh my Gods, Ms. Rose!" Jaune gasped as he had just thrown away his student like that, he quickly approached Ruby that was now placed on the ground by his fellow professor. "I'm sorry! I acted on instinct and threw you away." He apologized genuinely, a bit scandalized at what he just did. "Are you okay?"
Other than being thrown away and choked less than a second moment ago? "I'm fine." Ruby responded in a slight embarrassed tone. "I'm also sorry, I was thinking I was late so I rushed to the class and..."
"Hahaha, so eager to learn aren't you young one?" Ruby turned to Port who smiled down at her. "I'm happy to see someone eager to learn. Now, why don't you go take a seat? The class is about to begin." Port gestured.
Ruby stammered a yes before she moved, she spared a small glance to Jaune who smiled to her kindly and slightly apologetic. She returned the smile with a small blush, and turned away, walking to Yang, Weiss and Blake who now sat, her sister shoot her an annoying grin while her partner only shook her head, Blake meanwhile only stared impassively.
As she took a seat, her sister leaned a bit to her direction, eyebrow waggling and her eyes filled with amusement.
"Wow Ruby, I know you asked him to be your Master yesterday, but to think you will jump on him this soon?"
Ruby allow a groan to fall out from her mouth. What a way to start the day!
Jaune closed the door, returning not too far from Port's position. He gave a nod and the professor immediately started his lesson.
"Monsters!" Port shouted suddenly, causing many of the students to jump at the sheer volume. "Demons, prowlers of the night… the Grimm have many names." He began striding in front of the desks as he said this. "But I like to call them… Prey."
Jaune chuckled, this would be another interesting tale. The last time the older professor told him about how he faced a Ursa Major, he wondered what Port will tell to the students.
Ruby tried her best to stifle a yawn. She really did. When she was rushing to the class and learn about Grimm. She expected the study to be involving a Grimm robot that was made and then they will face it one by one for demonstration or at least a Grimm statue being used and the professor will point to them which area they can strike.
But this? Nope, not at all...
She admitted she was kind of impressed when she got caught easily by the professor. It was not like she weighed much but the way he handled it... It was kind of cool. But now when he started to teach? Gugh!
She allowed himself to find some amusement in the class, anything to clear her boredom! Her eyes then fell to other professor in the room and instantly light appeared in her eyes.
There not need another word to describe Professor Arc...
He is COOL! The coolest Hunter she ever met sans Uncle Qrow of course! He is undoubtedly very, very, very super-duper COOL!
The way he made that sword yesterday... Oh Gods! Even now it took everything she had to not squeal aloud! The sword he created yesterday was flawless! As one that was a geek in terms of crafting weapon, Ruby can tell just by simply looking that it that the sword is amazing! The color the blade possessed... She can even feel the power and the elegance it possessed.
And when he launched it... it was beautiful... powerful and beautiful... Absolutely! And the way it bounced in the sky, targeting the Grimm! And crossing the distance between the Grimm and them in less than two seconds...
Gods! Just what was that sword made from?!
She already asked Jeanne, not just her but everyone however Jeanne only shrugged it off and said it was a secret, something that she shouldn't tell seeing as it was not for her to say.
And unlike Jaune, Jeanne seems to not be bothered by the look she gave!
'It could be Dust... or a Semblance maybe? But the way he launched it. The bow he used also seems heavier than a normal bow! Of course seeing as, the bow was able to launch that sword he must be pretty strong to be able to carry it and also able to shoot things that far away from us!'
Even her sniper rifle can only shoot around 1.5 kilometers and it makes her recoil when she shots it. But this guy? He practically shot a sword like an arrow and said sword reached four kilometers in a second! And if that was not enough then the sword was capable of going after the target even if it missed judging by the way it bounced in the sky yesterday!
'Okay, so the sword can maybe be his Semblance seeing as he made it out of nothing. Or there was some kind of Dust in his gloves, who knows? As for the Bowswords. Hmm, it could be made from the same material as Levem Ferventis! Oh! Or it could be the latter was made from the same material as the first! Ahhh! I need to talk with him about it now!'
She let out a dreamy sigh as she observed the professor who was watching Professor Port without any expression, his eyes also often wandered to other directions before setting back on the round man.
If only it was him who was teaching... He probably can tell the class how to make weapons and use them in various ways! And judging by how he told them about the Griffon Grimm yesterday, he probably can teach as well! His young age be damned! Why can't he just become a professor that teaches rather than a support teacher?! She also entered Beacon because of her young age!
'That's it!' Ruby thought with a sudden realization. 'As team leader I can maybe suggest something to the Headmaster! I can ask him to give Professor Arc his own class or extracurricular about weapons crafting!' She can imagine it already, spending time while making weapons and designing them together with other students and getting taught by Professor Arc!
It would be amazing!
She felt something hit her in the head, not too heavy but enough to break her from her stupor. She let out a small whine before glancing down and finding a crumpled paper on her desk, she took it before beginning to unfold it.
Ruby, I know you are really eager to talk with my brother about weapons but can you not stare at him too much? He seems disturbed by your antics.
Ruby's eyes widened before she snapped her neck back, noticing Jeanne was smiled down on her while waving her hand in a polite manner. The dark-red haired girl snapped her head back to the front and saw the professor she was staring at now looking at her, there was a polite smile on his face but even she can sense he was a bit bothered.
Her face turned to a flame. Oh Gods! She quickly put her head down! Gagh! She has been staring too much! And she must have been making strange expressions for him to be bothered like that!
And judging by how Yang was grinning... Ohhh, she will never get away from this!
"Muuh." She whined under her breath cutely.
Jaune seeing Ruby can only sweat drop. He actually noticed that she had been staring at him for a moment, judging by her expression it was clear this girl really loved weapons.
He shuddered to think what was going to happen if he was finally able to complete his Reality Marble and show it to her... Great Oum, he didn't want to think about it and what she was going to do with all those swords that can be said to be a part of him.
Not like he did not appreciate it, having a cute girl thinking about him. Ruby Rose certainly is a beautiful girl despite her cuteness aspect being bigger than the first. And despite her only being fifteen it was fine, two years younger wasn't that long, and considering she was able to kill monster at her age...
Not like he was attracted to her, she is beautiful and cute, yes but he does not think about her in that way. He is a teacher and those kind of relationships are forbidden, that was also the reason why he agreed to become a teacher rather than a student like Jeanne. Other than he can get his license faster, he was also not interested in a romantic relationship, being a student he will deal with things like that sooner or later but as a teacher?
He doubted there will be any students that will make a move toward him. And if they did, at least he had a proper reason to reject them seeing as he is a teacher and all.
He broke out from his stupor when heard the story finally finish, it was about how a Beowolf Alpha terrorized some village and Port handling it. He found a few interesting facts such as using a mixture of onion and chilly will hinder the Grimm's movement for a few seconds, making it open to be attacked! Who knew such casual things can be useful! Then again, it was found because Port had confronted the Grimm in someone's house, if not then the man would have had to use another method and it won't be as easy as it was supposed to be.
"So, who among you believes themselves to be the embodiment of these traits?" Port asked loudly.
Instantly, Weiss Schnee if he recalled, raise her hand, for an unknown reason Jaune noted she looked irritated.
"I do, sir!" She declared.
"Well, then, let's find out!" Port gives a firm nod as he turns to gestures at the glowing red eyes surrounded by shadow shaking the cage that traps it. "Step forward, and face your opponent!"
As if know it was being mentioned, the Grimm inside let out a feral growl, its body lashed inside the cage and made it shake but the bars firmly kept it encaged, not allowing it to escape.
"Now, go change your outfit and bring your weapon young miss." Port said, making the Heiress stand while giving a nod and left the room.
Jaune frowned as he recalled the Heiress of the Schnee Dust company's attitude when the class was over. He truly found it to be disturbing. Right now he wanted to find her and try to help her if he can, this is just the first class of the first day after all and if first year students already have problems...
It would be bad in the future so it was better if he solved it now if he can.
Make no mistake, it was not like he felt something to the heiress in first place, yes she is beautiful but he was not attracted to her. He wanted to help her because he wished to, and as a teacher it was also his job to help students in need.
You know well it's not like that.
'I truly wish to help her because I'm her teacher.' He thought firmly.
Say what you want, but deep inside you know the reason is not just that.
...
Jaune had not even bothered to respond nor did he care whoever spoke to him in his mind. He already stopped caring about it years ago, and for the sake of his sanity, he did not even try to tell anyone about his condition.
If he did so, there was a big chance he will be brought to Atlas and get himself experimented on. Just like the Mage Association in EMIYA's World, there many 'crazy' people in Remnant and he doesn't wish to be captured by one.
He should go to Professor Oobleck's class now, but was there a small break, about fifteen minutes, just after one class was done. Right now he can spare a few minutes to help his student.
He walked through the corridor, giving a polite smile and greeting to a few of the students that he met on his way. He kept going and searching for them, he actually could just Reinforce his nose but unfortunately he would still not recognize their scent.
"That's just it!"
'Huh? There she is. Wow, if things like this keep happening then my Luck has clearly not failed me.' Jaune thought as he heard yelling from a familiar voice, he immediately walked to the direction of the voice.
"You've done nothing to earn your position! Back in the forest, you acted like a child, and you've only continued to do so!"
Judging by how Weiss spoke it was clear she was now very irritated. He arrived in one hallway before he took a little peek, in there he noticed that she was now in the middle of an argument with Ruby.
"Weiss, where is this coming from?" Ruby asked, appearing to be conflicted. "What happened to all the talk about 'working together'? I thought you believed in acting as a team."
"Not a team led by you. I've studied and trained. And quite frankly, I deserve better." Weiss scoffed to the girl who looked dejected at her words. "Ozpin made a mistake."
"And because you've studied and trained the position was given to Ms. Rose."
Both girls almost jumped in surprise when they heard a familiar voice come from behind them. Quickly they turned around to see the youngest professor in Beacon Academy approaching them, his kind smile still set on his face.
"P-Professor Arc!" Ruby and Weiss stuttered, both for different reasons. The first because she was surprised that her crush came suddenly while the latter was horrified because she was afraid that the man heard her comment about the headmaster.
"Hello to you two as well." Jaune greeted with a nod, his smile polite and kind like always. "You two may call me Jaune or Professor Jaune when outside of class, our age difference is not that much after all." He turned to Weiss. "And that was an adequate performance Ms. Schnee."
"T-Thank You Professor." Weiss gave a small nervous nod. Truthfully, at first she dismissed the boy, perhaps because it was a mere bluff or something like that. However, when he shot down that Griffon Grimm yesterday... Needless to say she believed in him, add the fact Jeanne also proved to be quite good yesterday in fighting the Death Stalker. "Professor, what do you mean by Ruby here being given the position because..."
"Exactly like I said." Jaune grunted in confirmation. "You, yourself said that you've studied and trained to lead right? That means you already know the basics about leading and perhaps it should be you who is leading." He paused and noted there was a smug expression on the heiress' face and Ruby looked down casted. "But you are missing the point here Ms. Schnee." He continued, making both girls blink in surprised. "One thing you all should know, this is School." He emphasized the 'school' part. "You are here to learn, that is the purpose of the school. If you already can lead, then why pick you? The schools purpose is to teach the ones that can't."
He made a gesture to Ruby here, prompting the Heiress to look at her. "Ms. Rose is young, two years is not a short time. But she proved at least that she was capable to do so by guiding you all to defeat the Nevermore yesterday. That means she has potential, and in school such potential should not be wasted. Rather than giving the position to someone who already can lead, it would be better to give it to someone who has talent, who knows Ms. Rose here can become a better leader than others."
"Ah..." Ruby's face set into flames at the sudden praise. "I... I..."
"I'm sure Ms. Rose is going to lead you as best as she can despite how unprepared she is..." He gave a small soft smile to the girl. "I can tell you are that kind of person by simply glancing at you Ms. Rose." He said. 'You remind me of myself before I became altered like this after all. And it will take very big things to change your attitude.' He thought bitterly.
"It will take a lot more than that to be a leader though..." Weiss commented with narrowed eyes.
"And that's why she has you." Jaune replied simply, making her eyes widen. "You said it yourself. You've studied and trained to become one. Then help her. As someone who has trained to become a Leader surely you are aware that a Leader can't stand alone, Ms. Schnee." He gives her a look. "Even your father can't lead his company alone. And that is exactly what happened to Ms. Rose here, she is young and inexperienced, but that's why she has you and team RWBY. Instead of fretting over something that has been done, try to alter it into a better one, help Ms. Rose here as her partner and teammate." He told the Heiress softly.
"I... I..."
"Yeah! Professor Arc- I mean! Jaune here's right!" Ruby beamed, making the white haired girl turn to her. "You can help me Weiss! I'm not confident in becoming leader but... If there is someone who is willing to help, then I will gladly accept it!"
"Ruby..." Weiss gave a soft look to the girl, she truly never thought about the situation in that way and now that she thought about it...
"And Ms. Rose." Jaune called her, making the petite girl turn to him. "I do not understand why you find Professor Port's tales so boring and spend your time daydreaming." He ignored the blush on the girls face that erupted. "However I understand perhaps you are not type who loves to hear someone ramble. But at least you can try when in class." The girl looked down at this. "I am aware you are only fifteen, that is quite a young age and don't try to deny it. You do not need to act like a mature person in an instant, just act like yourself like always. However, when in class or in the field, at least try your best to pay attention to the class."
Ruby looked sad for a moment and there was shame in her eyes, but it was quickly gone and replaced by firm determination as she gave the professor a strict look, her silver eyes seemed to be gleaming for a moment. "Yes! I will do my best to become a leader!" She declared in a straight voice before she turned to Weiss and shot her a grin. "And if I can't do it by myself, I have a partner who is willing to help me! Right Weiss?"
Weiss stared at Ruby for a moment, her face still voids of any emotion but her eyes spoke otherwise. She gave a glance to Jaune who nodded and smiled politely to her, this made a smile also cross her face as she turned to Ruby.
"Despite you still being a bit immature Ruby, I believe you have what it takes to be a good leader." Weiss gives a soft smile to her. "And maybe you will fall in the future or make a wrong decision because you are still a bit inexperienced. However, when that happens I will be there to help you. Make no mistake, I will be the best teammate you could ever ask for!"
"Weiss..." Ruby murmured softly, then she gives the older girl a hug, surprising the heiress "Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!"
The snow haired girl had her left eye twitch at the sudden affection, she briefly spared a look to the professor who only shrugged with a smile. She sighed and rolled her eyes but rose one hand and gave a pat to her back in a comforting manner.
"Now, I believe the situation has been handled. I suggest you two resume your activity, you have class about Dust and Aura with Professor Vector after all." Jaune informed, breaking the girl from their bonding moment.
"Thank you Professor Jaune." Weiss said sincerely, she gives a smile of gratitude to him. "Please call me Weiss. Ms. Schnee sounds too old."
"And call me Ruby!" Ruby added with a big grin. "It sounds strange to be called Ms. Rose." Then her eyes begin to sparkle. "Jaune! You said yesterday you were going to ask the headmaster about taking me on as your apprentice in crafting weapons! What did he say?! Did he say yes?!"
Jaune sweated at the girl's expectant look, truthfully he didn't ask Ozpin about that one. It was not like he didn't like her, Ruby seems like a fine and kind girl but her enthusiasm with weapons is on another level. And there was the matter of him also keeping the secret about his... Power
"I haven't asked him." Jaune answered as calm as he could. "Sorry Ms. Rose- I mean, Ruby, but I was pretty busy yesterday with handling my own stuff." He said. "And I do not mean to burst your hope but I'm a new Professor, and while I can be categorized as a full-fledged Hunter in a few cases I can't take on an apprentice seeing as I'm still unofficial."
"Ehhhh?" Ruby whined, sadness now clear in her eyes as she gave a look to Jaune who flinched at the obvious discomfort she displayed. But it was only for a moment before the light returned. "Then! It's fine! I can become your unofficial apprentice!"
"My what?"
"Unofficial apprentice! You teach me like a senior teaching a junior! And then when you become an official Hunter you can take me on to become your REAL apprentice! And we can delve further into our studies!"
He certainly didn't know how to response that. He gives a look to Weiss who only shakes her head but he swore he can see there was a gleam of amusement in her blue eyes.
"Come on Ruby, let's leave Professor Jaune alone." She said, deciding to help him.
"Eehhh? But Weiissss!"
"We have class after this, and Professor Jaune also must have somewhere to go. He's a support teacher remember? And teachers shouldn't be late, now come!"
"That's right!" Jaune chirped instantly. "I have to go to Professor Oobleck's class now, so why don't you two go off as well? You have class too right?"
Ruby let out a whine of disappoint at this, she stared at Jaune, eyes become bigger and wetter, then she-
"Eek!" Ruby squeaked as Weiss smacked her head lightly.
"Ruby, we have to go to class now, it's about to start not to mention we have to take seats in front so we can listen to the lesson better!" Weiss chided as she grabbed the petite girl's hood and began to pull her, ignoring her struggle and anomaly that somehow Ruby become a chibi version of herself. "Good day professor Jaune, see you later!"
"Nooo! I still want to talk with Jaune!" Ruby struggling. "I want to ask what material he used to create his weapons! I don't even know its name! Weiss! Let me go! Weiss!"
Jaune can only watch with small amusement as the pair slowly faded from his view, followed by Ruby whines that become smaller before it was gone as well.
'Dodging the bullet there.' He thought with a sigh, seriously he really can't resist Ruby's pouting! God damn his big brother nature! It was another thing he shared with EMIYA.
He allowed himself to sigh, well that was done. He can't help but smile, he was glad that he was able to help those two clean up their problem. He then turned his body around, to one of the pillars close to him.
"Aren't you going to come out, Headmaster Ozpin?" He asked.
From the pillar, the white haired headmaster comes out, he was holding his cane as usual while putting on a neutral face. "Impressive Jaune." He grunted. "How long have you known I was listening?"
"Since the beginning." Jaune answered.
"Ah..." Ozpin nodded in understanding. He was impressed a bit actually, while he did not try to hide himself fully not all people are able to detect him at that level. "Jaune, why don't you take a walk with me?"
"Umm, I do not mean to reject headmaster but I have to help Professor Oobleck soon." Jaune said in an unsure voice.
In response to that, Ozpin pulled out his Scroll and began to tap it for a few seconds before putting it back into his pocket. "I already informed him that you won't come to his class. Now, shall we?"
"Sure." Jaune shrugged and begins to follow the headmaster.
As they begin to walk, Jaune noted the number of the students were not as much as in the morning, they were probably already in class now and some who don't have class were free so they can do whatever they wish in their free time -as long it does not break school rules-.
"That was a good thing you did there." Ozpin began, breaking the silence between them. "To handle a problem like that, you truly are very mature for someone at your age."
"Not really." Jaune said modestly. To be honest, he got the experience to handle someone like Weiss from a certain twin tail haired Magus. Albeit they seemed different but they have a similar personality, Pride, they are very prideful people. "I just did what teachers should do, helping students in need."
"But most professors are not looking for students to be helped." Ozpin pointed simply and Jaune felt a bit surprised that he knew about it. "I'm not spying on you if you are worried, I just appear to notice you seemed to be looking for something." He added while giving the young man a reassuring look.
"Well..." Jaune rubbed the back of his neck in a slightly uneased manner. "I just saw that Ms. Schnee seemed bothered after the class and I thought perhaps I can lend a hand to her with her problem."
"Ah... Yes, I understand, Ms. Schnee is quite a beautiful girl actually."
"I'm not trying to woo her headmaster." Jaune deadpanned. "I'm a teacher and she's a student, that kind of relationship is forbidden."
"I know; I am just joking with you." Ozpin chuckled. "What I want to say, it was a noble thing you did."
"I'm just helping people. There is nothing wrong with that headmaster."
Ozpin can only smile, such a young spirit and innocent response. Despite how mature he behaves it seems there is still a part of him that is young like a child. "That is a noble motto Jaune." Ozpin remarked, both of them now stand on a balcony where they can see most of the students from below. "Tell me Jaune, what do you think I see when I see them?" He asked, making a gesture to the people below.
Jaune put on a thoughtful face for a moment as he also looked down to the students below him. "Children." He answered softly. "You see children."
Ozpin gives a small look to him before shifting his gaze back below. "Correct. I see children..." Ozpin nodded, "They are all able to slay dozens of Grimm by themselves without being harmed, they all possess strength that is capable of making civilians envy them, they all have sharp minds that can make them into Generals of armies...
"However, for all their strengths, no matter how powerful they are, no matter how smart they are, no matter how skilled they all are, they are all still children. Ones that need to be guided." He spoke softly, "This World is not simply Black and White. It can be kind sometimes like a mother's love for their children but it also can be cruel and merciless like Grimm killing infants."
"That's why, we, teachers exist. To guide them, to teach them, to lead them to the right path and ensuring they are ready to face the World when they leave from here... However, we can't help or lead someone that doesn't want to be helped."
"You see; they insist they not children while in truth they are children. Some may have experience beyond others and can be called adults already, but that still is not enough. And when we treat them like children they get angry, they get upset."
"I won't deny we at fault as well, we are already adult and we feel children are inferior to us because our experience surpasses them. And because of that, there is a bridge between teachers and students that can't be crossed by both of them. The teachers aren't willing to agree with the children due to their experience while the children don't like it to be treated as inferior."
Jaune only remained silent as he listened to the man rant, his expression never changing as he stared at the headmaster who was looking down to the students below them, chatting, playing and studying together.
"Truthfully Mr. Arc." Jaune noted the headmaster was not using his name but his formal title, there was also some edge on his voice, "When I suggested the idea to your father to make you a professor rather than a student I also doubted my decision. You are only seventeen years old, but your father described you as if you were some kind of Hunter that has hunted Grimm for so long."
'Hunting a Human that become a threat for Humanity to be precise.' Jaune thought bitterly as he recalled EMIYA's memories when he was working as a Counter Guardian.
"But that thought ceased when I saw your test. You expressed maturity inside your written test that surpassed any people in your age group, and you did not even hesitate to make the decision when asked and the psychology test also declared that you have the right mindset."
This time the man turned to him, and Jaune tried his best to not hold his breath when his silver eyes meet with the headmaster's. The way the older man was looking at him now is unnerving, it is almost like a scientist that is trying to dissect some unknown object and study it. It was so intense that Jaune found the hairs on the back of his neck stand just by being in the man's presence, screaming for him to strike down the headmaster now.
But Jaune was able to hold himself. His face remained stoic and his silver eyes were kept sharp as he met the brown orbs that were peering at him.
The stare off was only less than two seconds but for Jaune it was a very long. Soon the cold and intense gaze in those brown orbs were gone, replaced by the usual calm and calculating look.
"I've been thinking about some positions, one that could be held by someone who is at a close age to the students but at same time the person also has enough experience. You see, we can't help the students because we are older than them and they also won't accept our help. However, if there was someone who is willing to fill that position and help the students..."
'Oh no.' Jaune thought with a sudden realization. 'No, no, no HELL NO!' He groaned inside his head. A counselor. The headmaster wished for him to be a counselor?! That... That was ridiculous! HIM?! He, himself had a mental disorder! And this man wanted HIM to handle students with psychology problems?!
The thought of him becoming a counselor is very ironic seeing as he has his own problems... It was not like he doesn't want to help! He did! He truly did! But if he did so... The distortion in his mind will grow bigger and swallow him... He should only help the ones he knows and is close to. He should make himself top priority rather than the others...
And yet...
He can help people this way...
'No... No... I shouldn't...' Jaune firmly thought. He, himself was aware that he is not normal so for him to become a counsellor is impossible and the results won't be good... And yet...
He can help people this way...
The image of fire that burned down everything where the dead was everywhere flashed in his mind, followed by the screams and pleas of countless people. A growl of a beast that opposed mankind reverberated in his ears, and image of glowing crimson eyes that were filled with nothing but malicious intent crossed his eyes.
You can't save everyone... But you can save those who need it... Help them...
"Let me think about it." Jaune said simply, trying his best to not look conflicted by the memory that invade his mind suddenly.
"If you say so." Ozpin said simply. "It's not such big a decision actually however if you wish to think about it for the moment then fine, take your time. Give me your answer before the end of this week at least." He shifted his body and begins to walk away, passing by Jaune who only kept staring at the students below him with an impassive face.
The inheritor of the Archer power can't do anything but give a bitter smile as he looked down below him, his silver eyes seem to become very old, like a blade that has become rusty. They were eyes that should not belong to someone his age... And yet...
'Power always comes with a price... I wanted to be strong in the first place... I guess I should accept the consequence of my wish.' He thought sadly.
A sound of 'PING' came from his pocket which brought him out from his bitter thoughts, recognizing it as his Scroll, he took it and opened the message.
So how was your first day? Just so you know two days ago does not count seeing as your first official job started today.
Jaune eyebrow twitched, that was cheating! He was already recognized as a teacher when the first years gathering on the first day!
As if knowing what he was thinking, the Scroll let out another 'PING' and another message came out.
And yes! Technically, you are a teacher and your job is to teach. School just started today, that means this is your first day, end of argument or I will come there personally and make your job harder.
Inwardly he groaned, Jaune can only shake his head. He can argue further of course, but now he is not in the right condition, so he relented.
Fine, fine. Whatever you say. Nothing much happened, It's still noon after all. I'm kind of enjoying it!
PING!
You're lying aren't you? And now you must be in some kind of dilemma.
... What makes you think so?
PING!
You're responding faster than normal. Feh! I knew you wouldn't survive two weeks in there without complaining. Just the first day and you already have problems!
Jaune's left eye twitched in irritation. This girl really knew how to annoy him! He swore he was going to get her back one day!
Anddd another chapter done. Like the title said, this chapter and the next one will be talking about how Jaune spends time in Beacon academy. And not just that, we will also focus to Jeanne a bit to see the difference she made to team JNPR.
There's nothing much in this chapter save for how Jaune spent his first day, and yes! I already gave a hint that someone with Sabers appearance exist in here, fufufu of course Jaune knows her and as for who she is it will be revealed later! X3
Ruby's view to Jaune. As you can see, Ruby herself is a geek with weapons -dork means stupid, so she should be geek right? - and she just witnessed someone create a near flawless weapon out of nothing! I don't think I need to explain it anymore seeing as Ruby was swooning over Crescent Rose like it was some kind of child rather than an inanimate object -_-"
And yes, I admit the counselor part I borrowed from Coeur Al'Aran. I also picked a few of his lines, however make no mistake I already asked permission from him before I did so.
We also get a glimpse of another of Jaune's memory when he struggled with himself. And before you all ask, no, Jaune is not distorted, not yet but he is very close to it. He himself is aware that EMIYA's view of life is wrong, however part of his mind is already broken and accepts it so he struggles to not break under the memories that invade his mind.
This actually wouldn't happen in the first place had Jaune experienced the memories when he was already fifteen or sixteen. However, he experienced it when he was still young, only eleven years old so his mind slowly breaks under the horror he witnessed.
So no, all of you who asked is Jaune like Shirou the answer is he is not. He is still aware that Shirou's way of life is wrong, but at the same time he was also damaged permanently thanks to the memories he saw during his childhood. Right now he is pretty close to breaking though.
And lastly! The mysterious friend strikes again! Hahaha, poor Jaune, he can't just get a rest can he? XP
Anyway, next chapter we will focus on Jeanne for the moment before we go back to Jaune again! That's it for now, I hope you love this chapter! Please give a Favorite, Follow, and Review.
Ja Ne! XD