To be or not to be is not the question… but The Answer

by Aworldnotsosimple00

The answer, that's all he's looking for. not an answer but The answer. "Say in a world of nothing but remnants and filled with dying lights at the mercy of the encroaching Grimm fate, a world where the end is in sight and the world itself is dying can the remnants of a once great people find the way...or do they need a Messiah"? "Ne Minato san"?

10. Chapter 10

To be or not to be is not the question… but The Answer

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I do not own Persona 3 or RWBY. I wish I did…

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Hope you enjoy the rewrite/ edit

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"thoughts"

"Speech"

words with implied meaning

Regular text

"Persona speech"

"Persona thoughts/social link"

~ Ch 10 ~

~ To be or not to be… ~

~ Ozpin's office ~

A large ornate clock with exposed gears and ornate golden leaf designs with a single winged motif on the side hung up on the wall opposite to the headmasters desk. It rested just over the archway separating the walk in area and elevator from the main office where a door would normally be. The Victorian styled clock ticked away with every passing second eventually drawing the attention of the two occupants in the room.

Looking at the large ornate clock the headmaster of Beacon academy rubbed his forehead and sighed. His shadow and trusted assistant Glynda Goodwitch pinched the bridge of her nose letting out an exasperated sigh as she turned to face her friend and mentor. "He's late." She said with annoyed impatience in the prim and proper way she'd mastered over years of teaching at Beacon.

She started tapping her foot and raised an eyebrow when Ozpin chuckled softly giving her an apologetic look. She was the kind of person who held etiquette and punctuality in high regard so people like like Qrow who had little self control and almost no regard for rules pissed her off. The young man she'd met before initiation yesterday hadn't struck her as the same kind of person but she was seriously starting to reconsider.

"He did say he was coming this afternoon, before evening correct?" Pulling out her scroll she checked the time to see if it was any different than Ozpin's ornate clock. 5:55 pm. Low and behold it wasn't. "He does realize it's past 5:00 p.m. correct. It's almost evening."

Ozpin nodded steepling his hands together while resting his elbows on the desk, propping his head up. "Yes Glynda, I'm sure he is aware of the time. I received a call from him just before you arrived. He said he had something holding him up most of the day and wasn't familiar with the area." He closed his eyes and smirked. "His lateness is expected. After all he's new to Vale."

The lights above the elevator door to his office lit up alerting the two that someone making their way up. Ozpin opened his eyes, his usual calm and pensive look coming over him while Glynda straightened up turning to face the elevator. "Despite your discomfort It appears he'll arrive within the time frame of afternoon.

Glynda sighed letting her shoulders drop. "So it would seem." She said in a frustrated tone she usually reserved for unruly students or Qrow. She decided to add a new category of people she hated, those who cut things exceedingly close.

Ozpin glanced at her and grinned slightly. In truth she only thought she hated people like that. In actuality without people like Qrow, and it would appear Minato as well, she would have less to do and no one to reprimand. Not to mention she wouldn't get her little breaks from work that she was always complaining about not getting. He chuckled, drawing her attention and getting an unimpressed look from the good witch. He smiled sheepishly and shook his head in good humor.

"So Glynda. Did you have time to look into our new friend like I asked?" A file was slapped onto his desk making him blink. He looked at the folder and then at Glynda in surprise. He hadn't expected her to find anything so soon.

"That was… rather fast." He said unenthusiastically Looking at the manila folder with a frown. The size of the file suggested that their new friend was quite the enigma. The headmaster sighed. "Is that all there is on him?"

Glynda nodded.

"Well it looks as though our friend is as much a wild card as he seems to be. Hard to believe someone so blunt and straight forward has so little on him."

Glynda pushed her glasses up nodding in agreement. "I found some reports in the news where the video feed from initiation had been broadcast. I still have no clue how that little problem occurred but some very influential people are looking into him as well. The display of him cutting down those grimm the way he did has caused a fair amount of rumors and speculation."

Ozpin grimaced closing his eyes. "And what are those rumors exactly?" He asked in a tired tone.

She glanced at the elevator noting it was about a fourth of the way up. "Well my contact in human resources and health records has no information on him. She also said that I was far from the first to ask."

Ozpin groaned quietly at the headache that was forming. "So I assume people are arguing over his ethnicity and loyalties?"

Nodding the blonde woman hummed. "Yes. My contact told me she overheard that the council are interested in him for the potential he has in defending Vale from grimm. A Semblance like the one he displayed would be a boon in large scale encounters or wall defense. We know next to nothing but the possibilities are astounding."

Ozpin let his hands relax as he leaned back in his chair. "It would be bad if someone like that began working for a kingdom. It would upset the balance of power. If he could do that multiple times without tiring and with the stamina and endurance he displayed he could protect an entire kingdom on his own with only minimal help in the form of turrets and soldiers to hold positions until he arrives."

Glynda stiffened at the idea. A one man army for grimm defense. Expanding the city and building new settlements like the failed Mt. Glen would suddenly become not only possible but easily doable. That kind of thing would be a threat to other kingdoms that couldn't expand. The conflict that could arise. "Oum…"

"Indeed." Ozpin said quietly. Sighing in consternation he grabbed his mug lifting it to his mouth and took a sip righting himself while fixing his expression just before the doors to the elevator dinged and opened up.

The elevator doors opened to reveal the average looking young man with blue hair that they had been waiting on. When he stepped out his slouched posture and lazy dispassionate expression Made Glynda feel offended. Not only was he acting as if he could care less where he was but he wasn't even dressed nicely.

It was apparent he hadn't even taken more than a couple minutes of the exceedingly long time he spent getting here on getting dressed. The hole in his turtle neck was obvious to see as well and it drew Glynda's attention instantly. "Minato with all the time you had you couldn't be bothered to at least try and dress well for a meeting?"

"Glynda."

She shot Ozpin a glance and the man simply rose two fingers to let her know to drop the subject.

She opened her mouth to respond but she couldn't think of anything to say. He had as good as told her to be quiet with his gesture. Straightening up she pulled her clipboard and scroll to her chest shooting a glare at Minato who looked right back at her.

Ozpin placed his mug down and sat up straight behind his desk with a small smile on his face. "Well welcome Mr. Arisato. I hope your night in Vale provided you what you needed to clear your mind."

Stepping into the elaborate clock tower that was Ozpin's office the young messiah glanced around the room. The setup filled him with a strong sense of dejavu. It reminded him of the velvet room. Especially with the way Ozpin sat, very similarly to Igor. That matched with the way Glynda stood next to him brought a small smirk to his face.

Walking up to the desk with a calm and slightly amused look on his face he Shrugged. "I wouldn't say I cleared my mind." He said with a small hint of ironic amusement before a serious look came over his eyes. "I did make a decision though."

Glynda glanced at Ozpin wondering what decision it was that Minato was referring to. Clearing her throat she gestured to the seat in front of Ozpin's desk. "If you would Mr. Arisato, the seat in front of you is there if you would like to take it."

Minato looked to Glynda and then down at the chair in front of it. Ozpin stirred from his musings and gestured to it as well. "Yes. That seat is for students but you may make use of it if you wish. We are all equals here, there is no need for you to remain standing if you don't want to."

Minato looked from Ozpin to the chair eyeing it. He noted that it was tall and thin made with a wire frame. There was a soft velvety blue cushion resting on the seat. The back was reminiscent of a harp with three legs. It was exactly like the one in the velvet room which made him raise an eyebrow in curiosity. He looked back up to meet Ozpin's gaze and shook his head. "No thank you."

Glynda rose an eyebrow and glared at Minato. He may have saved a couple students and she had thrown a rock at him yesterday in good natured competitive humor but she still didn't trust him. The fact he decided to stay standing and behind the chair was a sign he was cautious and still didn't trust them. Now why that was, remained to be seen.

Ozpin nodded and pushed back his chair standing up while grabbing his mug. "Very well. I hope you don't mind if I stand as well then?" He asked Minato in an indifferent tone, giving the vibe that the question was just a formality.

Minato smirked in amusement at the mans behavior. Was he really that scared after their little talk in front of the auditorium? His reason for not sitting didn't stem from distrust he just didn't wanna sit in the chair because it reminded him of Orpheus and his own persona hadn't responded to him since the day before yesterday.

Honestly It didn't matter to him how they felt about him he just needed to reestablish the social links and if Ozpin was the magician like Elizabeth had suggested then being on his good side was a must, for now.

He shrugged and leaned back putting his hands in his pockets. "It's not my office. I can't stop you."

Glynda's glare intensified. His rude behavior and punctuality or lack thereof was serious grating on her nerves.

Ozpin spoke, stopping her from doing anything that would upset Minato. The young man had made it abundantly clear that disrespect and emotions not kept in check were things he did not appreciate.

"Well Mr. Arisato I'm pleased to see you respect the idea of a time and a place to impose your will. Despite being a guest you are presently on private property on invitation."

Minato shrugged again. "You make it sound like a privilege. I never asked to be here."

Glynda looked away with a calm expression trying to hold her in her annoyance at the disrespect he was showing. Pushing up her glasses again she looked back at Minato and huffed. "Mr. Arisato it would be prudent of you to not make snide comments when you've been invited somewhere."

Minato took his hands out of his pockets bowing to Glynda and Ozpin. "My apologies. I don't mean any disrespect." He stood back up straight but there was a dangerous yet calm look in his eyes. "But I won't be talked to as if I should be grateful for things I didn't request. Assumptions are dangerous when you expect things of people you don't know."

Glynda's eyes narrowed as she made a quiet hmm. Ozpin and Glynda both accepted his rather unexpected apology but his implied threat and displeasure were nothing to take lightly.

He would be an invaluable asset to whomever he sided with and making an enemy out of him for something as stupid as holding him to their expectations was a disappointing thought. The headmaster expected him to stand his ground while the good witch had him pegged as a trouble maker. His obvious lack of respect for authority spoke of either a juvenile past or one where authority had betrayed him. With his intelligence either was a grim prospect.

He was either uncontrollable and dangerous or dangerous and unforgiving. Ozpin came to the conclusion that Minato's support would consist of specific requests and his loyalty would be to individuals not causes.

A rather annoying kind of person to handle for sure. Typically they were strong and sough after by kingdoms and companies alike. Arthur Watts was very similar at a younger age. His arrogance and ego had made him an easy target for those who appealed to it.

Ozpin cleared his throat and sipped from his mug to clear his mind before he acknowledged Minato again. "Well Minato. You don't mind if I call you by your first name do you? To save time and be done with formalities. You may call me Ozpin in return."

Depending on Minato's response there would be very different ways to handle the conversation.

Minato straightened up and tilted his head while considering Ozpin's request. Having grown up in Japan the idea was strange but his experience in other worlds and other people had shown that he was the odd man out in most circumstances. Looking at Ozpin he nodded. "Alright."

Ozpin smiled at the inch he gained as well as the knowledge that Minato wasn't egotistical and placed his mug on the desk. "Well Minato. I would like to know your thoughts on the proposal I gave you last night." He smiled a calm calculated smile. "About whether or not you will be joining the staff at Beacon. You did say you'd made a decision."

Minato sighed and leaned back. "I did come to a decision, yes. Don't think my being here is agreeing though. I don't know why you would offer me the job so I've decided to hear you out and give you my final answer before I leave."

Rubbing his chin Ozpin hummed, placing his hand on his cane directly in front of him while the other held his mug resting against his chest. "Well. In all honesty I was observing your interactions with my students and found your conversations quite intriguing. You offered them information and new ways to look at things without coercing them into any particular decision. I'm… impressed for lack of a better word."

Minato rolled his eyes slightly and shrugged a shoulder, giving an emotionless stare. "It's not my place to judge or tell them what to do. I was just correcting errors I saw and herd."

Glynda nodded in approval. It was her belief that teachers were meant to inform, train and nurture students not manipulate them or impress their own views on them. The world and their peers would do that. She could see why Ozpin had offered him a position but still didn't know what the position was exactly.

She had only just found out before he arrived that he'd been offered a job in the first place. Her initial thoughts had been to recruit him to help in the effort against Salem but it was obvious he couldn't be trusted with information like that yet. She trusted Ozpin however and didn't ask any questions.

Ozpin smiled knowing Glynda's silence on the matter was her trust in him. Her faith in him was a comforting thing, allies like her were few and far between.

"Well Minato, I would like to offer you a job as Beacon's counselor and psychology professor. Your apparent aptitude to make people question their actions and beliefs without alienating them is something the students here need. They will be mostly removed from society over their stay here and having someone they can go to for support as well as keep them grounded would be a boon to them.

Minato chuckled slightly, an amused look reaching his eyes. "Why would you need a school councilor if you don't already have one? This is a college isn't it?" He pointed out that if any students had or gained mental problems from going through something traumatic they should seek professional help. "I'm flattered but I don't posses a license nor a desire to help the emotionally distressed. The offer I'm sure would be a generous one with high pay but I have to decline the position."

His sound and logical refutation of the offer was starting to change Glynda's view of him. He obviously wasn't trying to infiltrate the school if he refused the opportunity and he shared her belief on the spirit of learning. The fact he didn't want to accept a job he felt unfit for was even more promising. However, his comment about not wanting to help the students made her pause.

Clearing her throat she faced the two men. "Well if he feels he isn't qualified to help students emotionally then I'm sure I could use him to help with the sparing combat classes. He's shown aptitude there and his friend was very generous in their description of his skills in the second letter we received this morning."

She smiled softly thinking about the spare time she'd have. "If he accepts I can focus more on my other duties as deputy head mistress." Her smile turned into a sickly sweet one as her gaze fell on Ozpin. "Not to mention actually being able to teach dust theory in detail as opposed to just reviewing affects, effects and proper usage." She said calmly while sending a quick glare at Ozpin who grinned sheepishly.

Minato considers her proposal for a second when a thought occurred to him. Looking up at Glynda he fixed her with a piercing gaze. "Why would they need combat practice when they hunt grimm? It's not like they would need to fight eachother?"

Thinking back to his time in Iwatodai he'd never fought his friends when they climbed Tartarus. They would go to weaker areas and farm, for lack of a better word, the weaker enemies to practice.

"You only need to fight other humans if you needed to learn how to overpower and beat them whatever that implies." He could understand sport and competition like Akahiko's boxing, Yukari's archery, Mitsuru's fencing and his own kendo but a college that focused on combat. It didn't sit well with. "I can understand sport but this is a school for hunters isn't it?"

Glynda opened her mouth to respond but she suddenly found she didn't exactly know how. His point was valid but they'd done it for so long. Thinking back she remembered reading something about just this topic in a history book. It covered things before the great war but she couldn't remember exactly what.

She closed her mouth and turned to Ozpin looking to him for answers. Minato looked at him with a steely gaze. As his eyes met Ozpin's he caught the glint of someone who had a secret. "Are these students hunters or soldiers?" he asked in a steady no nonsense tone.

Glynda scowled looking back over to Minato with an affronted look on her beautiful features. Slamming her riding crop on the desk she huffed in indignation. "How dare you insinuate that we're training our students to be a military force. The idea is preposterous. Not to mention illegal."

She'd heard some very dumb things as a teacher but a grown man accusing them of building and army or training one was something the council would accuse them of. She narrowed her eyes at the blue haired young man feeling much more suspicious of him now.

Ozpin narrowed his eyes as well but stayed quiet. The accusation was one he'd heard before and was sure he'd hear again. Though the look in Minato's eyes whispered his disdain for such a practice as apposed to the threat to any power. It appeared that he worried for the students themselves not the power structure therin. A smile came to Ozpin's lips. "So he isn't egotistical and he has compassion for others lives. We could use him."

Minato's gaze never left Ozpin despite the death glare Goodwitch was sending him. He clenched his hands in his pockets at the smile on Ozpin's face. He could feel Thanatos' influence pushing him to wipe that look off his face, figuratively and literally.

Watching Minato carefully Ozpin responded in a calm tone, his smile never leaving. "I assure you Minato they are not and will not be soldiers unless they decide to be so after graduating or leaving for whatever reason."

Glynda smiled at Minato when she heard Ozpin's words. She couldn't believe that someone would accuse them of treason so brazenly.

Minato let his hands relax his posture becoming slouched like usual but the two teachers in the room couldn't shake the feeling that he was far from it. Their attention snapped back to his face when he began speaking again.

"With all due respect, do not underestimate my intelligence. Fire fighters are taught how to deal with criminals in case of emergencies but aren't trained to fight or subdue them. Their main function is fighting and putting out fires as well as disaster control. Much in the same way cops are trained to enforce laws and not fight wars. That's what soldiers are for. Etc etc."

His gaze shifted from Ozpin to Glynda and back. "Every group and organization is specialized in one thing or another. Anything past teamwork and self study is pointless Unless they are expected to do more than hunt grimm."

Minato's simple refutation and unasked question put Ozpin on edge. The fact that he was so young and came to such conclusions spoke volumes of experience. That Minato would assume things like that was a clear indication of his attention to detail and politics.

Glynda tightened her grip on her scroll and put a hand on her hip in indignation. "Hmph. Anyone could explain that if they payed attention to the world. You don't strike me as unlearned." She fixed a few strands of hair that had become displaced in her huff. "I don't see how but you seem to be unaware of the Vytal festival and how the students around remnant training to be hunters and huntresses compete to see who's the strongest, as well as to build better relations between our kingdoms."

Ozpin's eyes widened at Glynda's outburst. The only reason he would be asking if the student's were soldiers would be if he had no clue of the festival. The Idea was hard to believe but no at all impossible. He was sure Jaune Arc wasn't aware of it either.

Taking a breath he watched Minato closely. That bit of information could lead one with Minato's intelligence to a rather unflattering conclusion If he hadn't already known of it. The conclusion his train of thought had led him to at first was more accurate than not.

Minato's teeth ground audibly as he turned to face Glynda, a faint blue glow shining in his eyes. "That's the stupidest thing I've ever heard. Students from different nations fighting to build relations. More like enmity."

Ozpin couldn't help but smirk behind his mug at the unintentional pun Minato made with the coliseum being called amity.

Glynda was about to retort but Minato continued his little exposition. "What you just described is the equivalent of a war game or proxy war. The countries who participate are simply testing each other and the students are mock soldiers in staged battles. What you said proves my initial point."

Glynda was left speechless and looked bewildered from Minato to Ozpin as the young man turned to leave.

Minato was annoyed. He wasn't in any position to judge them and he honestly didn't care about any plans they had but he couldn't stand liars. Thinking back to Ikutsuki his face scrunched in disgust, his fists clenching in his pockets before a dangerous and calm look came over his features.

Liars and monsters in positions of power. He hated authority figures. The angels and demons were no different. The heroes and their camaraderie were more attune to his indifferent personality of do or die, blood or glory, your fate is what you make it.

People being dragged into things they didn't understand, or they weren't informed correctly and the people who lied to them. He pitied them. Not everyone had a father like Mitsuru's who would scale Tartarus and fight to save her and her unsuspecting friends.

He stopped walking and turned back to look Ozpin in the eyes. He just wanted a straight honest answer. One where technicalities played no part. Even if he was right a monster in plane sight was better than a wolf in sheep's clothing.

"Ozpin." Minato spoke calmly as he turned around to face the older man once again but with a dead look in his eyes. "Tell me. Why; and what are you using them for?"

That was it for Glynda. She'd had mixed thoughts on Minato but to question Ozpin like that and to accuse him of using the students was crossing the line. "How dare you! Ozpin would never!"

"That's enough Glynda."

Shocked, the deputy headmistress turned to look at her friend and ally. "What? But."

Ozpin just shook his head stepping forward pulling his chair out before taking a seat. "You aren't wrong Minato. Not for the most part. The students are being trained to fight for more than just the purpose of hunting grimm that much is true. Nor are you wrong about them being unknowing participants in a proxy war to maintain the unsteady peace between the four kingdoms."

Glynda's jaw dropped in shock.

"Minato, no. Mr. Arisato. I will not pretend to be doing the right thing nor am I deluded enough to believe there is such a thing as the greater good. We both know that it is but a false ideal we speak of to help ourselves sleep at night. I admit I am flawed in my actions but there is a reasons for them. Reasons I will not discus at the current moment but know they are there and that the other kingdoms are aware of them as well."

The man steepled his fingers and hid his frown behind his hands as he continued to hold Minato's gaze. "Certain sacrifices must be made and those who enlist in this line of work are made aware of the consequences of their chosen career path. Sadly many do not take the warnings to heart or hold a more fantastical and romanticized vision of being a huntsman or huntress."

Sighing Ozpin's gaze wavered as old memories surfaced and he felt his age for the first time in a very long while. "Despite that Mr. Arisato we must do what is necessary to protect those that cannot and will not protect themselves."

Minato's expression became one of unwilling admittance. He knew exactly what Ozpin meant. He had after all saved a world that had itself yearned for the fall. He had been recruited without truly knowing what he was going to be asked to sacrifice but he had non the less given it willingly despite his contempt and desire to watch it all burn. Closing his silver eyes he nodded. "I understand."

Glynda was stunned. She understood politics and war but the way Ozpin was talking it was crystal clear he didn't share everything with her. What's more is that this young man who seemed to be so against him was suddenly nodding in agreement and acknowledging the necessity for what they were doing.

A small amused smile spread across Minato's face as Ozpin admitted the facts. Man life was a bitch and he had the pleasure of living it not once but as many times as death saw fit to hold him here.

Ozpin leaned forward over his hands with a grim expression on his face. "There is currently an imbalance of power in the world both between the Kingdoms and in a less conventional sense. There are many things that are causing this struggle for control and those who would rather stand by and let things be are being forced to act in order to protect their ideals, country and countrymen."

Minato rose an eyebrow at that. He wasn't a stranger to war or shadow organizations . He walked back taking the originally offered seat. If Ozpin was willing to admit his actions and explain himself or at least the situation he would listen.

"At the moment there are several factors pushing once peaceful organization to commit dangerous, hostile and illegal actions. What was once organized crime is turning into a Mafia and terrorists are becoming shadow armies. The grimm are focusing in areas they never did before and as you saw for yourself, grimm old enough to be more ancient than recent history are appearing."

Ozpin sighed and rubbed his temples before taking a breath. "The fact that the Initiates were able to take out those grim is a circumstantial miracle. That deathstalker was nearly killed by the Nevermore and severely weakened. The feat was only possible due to that factor. Now a fully trained huntsman would not have had much problem if they were well equipped but that is not the situation we had on our hands."

Minato Looked to Glynda for any sign of conformation. He hadn't been in this world long and didn't exactly know what the standard was for hunters. The look and nod she gave him was enough for the moment though. He looked back to Ozpin who continued his train of thought.

"The one that had us worried was the Giant Nevermore. It was much to large about five times larger than the standard giant nevermore. It's appearance is unlikely at best to be a coincidence."

"After seeing you deal with those weaker grim the way you did and your stamina I wasn't worried for the students with you present but after seeing what it took to kill the creature I was… Unnerved. I would not have trouble killing the thing if I had been there but the damage necessary to kill it would take some time to dish out. The convenience of having two large stone buildings to drop on it isn't something that can be replicated."

Minato nodded conceding the fact that despite four of the eight almost dying and their seemingly surmountable odds the situation appeared to have been rigged in their favor through chance.

Leaning back in his chair Ozpin let out his breath and looked at the ceiling with a drained look on his face. "There is much going on that has me worried for the safety of the students and the kingdom. Call me a monster but they need to be able to defend themselves and the people as well as fight if the time comes."

Looking at Minato he fixed him with a steady look holding eye contact. Minato looked into the mans eyes, all he could take from his soul was a feeling of desperation and regret.

"Mr. Arisato, After seeing you deal with those weaker grim the way you did and your stamina I'm afraid you've drawn the attention of many people and this has caused political unrest and made waves in the world.

Ozpin closed his eyes and let his head hang slightly. His voice quiet. "I wish to mitigate as much damage as possible by adding you to the staff here where your political allegiance is neutral. So long as you remain a teacher here you will not be and cannot be forced to do anything you do not agree too. You will also be under the protection of myself and the remainder of the staff present here so long as they have your hand if needs be."

This drew Minato's attention. He didn't want to be tied down to this man nor his machinations but he disliked the idea of states and countries coming after him even more. Despite being the headmaster there was little Ozpin could truly force him to do making him the lesser of two evils for now. The idea of accepting the position was looking more and more inviting.

"Minato Arisato." Ozpin stood from his chair and bowed low to the blue haired messiah. "If you accept and assist in training the students for the inevitable I will allow you as many freedoms as I can permit. I can only give you until the end of the Vytal festival however which occurs three fourths of the way through the school year so about eight months. At that time I doubt I'll be able to keep the council of Vale from attempting to exploit you. Not without a substantial loss on my end."

A crooked smile spread across Minato's lips as he gave a quiet almost silent dark chuckled. "This man is smart. Admit his actions and keep me close while I get used to being here with the deadline hanging over my head. He's hoping I'll become fond of the students or school and be willing to devote energy and time to his personal causes in exchange for any losses he'll take protecting me."

Letting out a breath and sighing calmly Minato relaxed bowing to the two. "I'll take the position. Dog's love their beds after all."

Glynda quirked an eyebrow at him in puzzlement not understanding the last statement, and jumped almost falling over when Ozpin burst out laughing. "What in the world… Do these two have a mental link or something, or did it truly go over my head? No couldn't be… could it?"

Coughing and taking a deep breath Ozpin wiped the tear of amusement that had fallen down his cheek. "Well he is more astute in his observations than most that is for sure."

Clapping his hands together and standing up Ozpin held out his right hand to the latest addition to his staff. "Welcome Minato, to Beacon. I expect you here 8 am. sharp for your first class with Goodwitch."

Leaning forward Minato nodded with his dark smile as he took Ozpin's outstretched hand. "I'll help train them but remember this. I want no part in their fight to protect their kingdom or for the fate of the world. I'll do my job and protect my students to the last but I will not go out of my way to assist them. I'll be a combat instructor no more, no less."

Glynda fixed Minato with a stern look gripping her scroll tightly while Ozpin sat back down. "Of course. I would never force someone to aid us when it goes against their beliefs and loyalties."

Minato nodded. "One last thing. I'd like a nice bonus for starting such short notice. Ten thousand sound about right if I might only be here for eight months out of twelve."

He knew how to get his moneys worth out of people like Ozpin. What they used to their advantage and to give you limits to get you to agree to their requests was as good as giving you a checklist of things you could use to extort them.

A few Minutes later all that remained in the officer was a stunned Goodwitch and a wary Ozpin. "Glynda."

"Yes sir?"

"Look into anything he does. I want to know where he goes, when he's on and off campus as well as who he talks to. I'm thinking he could be an invaluable addition to our… group."

Glynda's eyes widened and she pushed her glasses up when they started to slip due to the relaxed muscles in her shocked face. "But…Yes sir."

~ Beacon dining hall Team RWBY~

Team RWBY having just finished their dinner for the day were heading out for a little walk to help their food settle.

They were all feeling rather satisfied with their first day at Beacon. There were a few things that had happened like Decorating their room that lead to their almost being late and JNPR actually being late with Jaune missing first period all together.

Another was Weiss' angry disposition from failing to become team leader. It hadn't surfaced last night and it seemed to have fizzled out for the most part after she'd gone for a walk just before dinner.

One of the stranger things was Yang trying to keep a close eye on the team leader of JNPR. She watched him closely but not in the way someone would when interested and she'd sighed angrily more than once.

Ruby, thinking Yang was treating her like an immature kid mistook it as her sister judging her only friend still at Beacon other than her teammates. She though pulling the groups together during lunch and dinner would end it but she found she was wrong. Yang still eyed Jaune in that weird way.

Blake for the most part had indulged in the room decorating and her teams antics throughout the day when she didn't have her nose in a book and didn't seem to bothered by anything. They had all seen her staring out windows to the emerald forest more than a few times though.

While they walked passed the entrance hall out to the fountain Ruby prattled on about the size of the cookies that the cafeteria had to Blake who nodded, responding in hmms and uhuhs. All this while Weiss filed her nails trying not to look embarrassed at Yang's constant questioning about her day and the implications therin.

"So Weiss cream, where did you put it all huh?" the blonde brawler asked with a Cheshire grin as she poked the young heiress in the side making her jump.

Weiss groaned at the pain while swatting Yang's hand away glaring at her. "I swear Xiao Long, stop it or I swear I'll make you regret it during combat practice tomorrow."

The blonde just smirked taking a step to the side knowing it was an empty threat if not through intent then through means. The heiress was sore and wouldn't move more than strictly necessary. Still grinning Yang put her arms behind her head and walked with a swagger. "Well lets hope all that food you put away helps with the soreness by tomorrow or you won't even be able to beat Jaune."

This had been going on for the better part of the day but the food comment was a recent addition as was her bringing up Jaune. The boy was good with tactics and thought quick on his feet there was no dining that, but his skill in combat was left wanting. To think that he could beat her just because she was sore was a shiver inducing thought.

"As if Xiao Long!" She said louder than necessary while stamping her foot causing herself to flinch at the quick pain in her thigh and butt. "I may be sore but I use dust and glyphs to fight I could still take you on right now."

"Oh yeah." Yang said in a confrontational tone leaning in close to Weiss, their foreheads pushing against each other as they glared at one another.

Blake sighed and looked to Ruby who had a nervous look on her face. Being the team leader had put her in a position where sorting things out was expected to some degree and she so didn't like it. Rubbing her left arm she got the attention of the W and Y of RWBY by clearing her throat.

"So Weiss." Ruby looked at her partner curiously. "Why did you work out so much, and how did you eat all that food? You don't seem like you eat a lot." The redhead held her hand up horizontally next to her head with a friendly smile. "Especially since you're s."

Yang quickly slid over to Ruby and covered her mouth and pulling her hand down laughing nervously. "Since you're slim!" She blurted out trying to prevent another fight between the two. The arguing from earlier about team leaders was still fresh in Yang's mind. Although by dinner Weiss seemed to have sorted out whatever problem she'd had. Yang didn't wanna open up that door again if it had worked out so nicely.

Trying to change the topic from the food comments and the fact the heiress was short she decided to ask about her workout as well instead of just poking fun at her. "So Weiss what was up with the workout you did earlier? It's obviously new if you're so sore."

Weiss flushed slightly at that. She hated feeling inadequate. She'd seen Yang benching 3 times her weight without breaking a sweat which was almost as impressive as the loud ginger from team JNPR who could bench almost twice that.

She'd taken Minato's advice from the airship to heart and decided that today she would start the exercise and diet he'd recommended. During their free period she'd changed into yoga pants and a tank top to exercise while adding in the squats and push ups on top of her regular running and fencing exercises.

It had been a rather awkward experience once her arms refused to lift her small frame after the 100th push up. Everyone including the younger Ruby had asked if she was alright when she cursed and could barely get off the floor. She had no idea she lacked that much endurance. It was a wonder she hadn't worn herself out in combat before. She'd quickly found solace in the fact that she always finished her fights before she grew exhausted and berated herself for never pushing her limits before. The knowledge, pain and humiliation was welcome though if the conditioning payed off in the end.

After the issue with push ups she'd done around 400 squats as recommended for her slight frame to get a good workout from It. The fact everyone else tapped out at 200 to 300 hundred had lifted her spirits and boosted her ego but now she was regretting it. 6 hours later her legs felt stiff and her posture was straight from the soreness in her lower back, and her butt. Oum her butt felt tight and it hurt to sit or even lift her legs when walking.

She let out a small breath through her nose as she glared at Ruby and Yang knowing full well they were avoiding something. Her mind wandered slightly to her childhood where months at a time Winter had walked around like she was now and had started to grow in certain places like her thighs and butt. "That lying. She was doing the same thing I'm doing now. Why did she tell me it was just her practicing proper etiquette."

~General Ironwoods Air carrier, Atlas Fleet on their way to Vale ~

"With the display that we saw of said man we are to arrive much earlier than expected in order to establish contact with him and learn what we can about him. There is also another target that we were made aware of recently that."

Achoo!

The person speaking went silent and everyone in the meeting room turned to look at specialist Schnee.

Winter rubbed her nose and flushed in embarrassment at the looks she received. "Excuse me."

The soldiers present either snickered in amusement or sniffed in snooty indignation at the interruption.

Ironwood tried to keep the smile that spread across his face from growing to large as he eyed his right hand lieutenant colonel. "Nice to know your human like the rest of us specialist. That's the first time I've seen you do anything other than follow military protocol.

Looking away Winter cleared her throat. "Sorry sir, please continue."

~ 0 ~

A smile came over Weiss as a feeling of vindication washed over her. Shaking her head she looked over at the rest of team RWBY where even Blake was watching her, waiting for an explanation. She turned her head to the side and coughed into her hand mumbling something out.

Yang got a sly look on her face and leaned in with a suggestive look on her face. "Hmm. Did Weiss cream find a guy she likes and is working out to try and firm up for him?" The busty girls eyes shone in understanding of the food she ate as well. "Oh ho ho. You ate all that food to fill out didn't you."

Ruby blinked and blushed at the implication before looking at Weiss with an intrigued sparkle in her eyes. "Oh who is it? What's his weapon like?"

Blake's eyes widened as she looked at Ruby in shock before remembering the fifteen year old girl was a weapon fanatic and probably meant the question literally and not in a sexual manner. Sighing in relief Blake turned to Weiss with a curious gaze.

Weiss spluttered and stomped her foot in indignation at the conclusions Yang had come to. The first was wrong completely and the second while true in principle wasn't for anyone but herself."No Xiao Long. I don't like anyone here and I'm not trying to 'fill out' to impress anyone. A friend was kind enough to give me advice on building myself up to better take advantage of my fighting style. He also recommended a better diet to help speed up the gains for my effort." She said in a haughty attitude with her arms folded nose turned up.

"So there is a guy." All three girls said together.

Weiss blinked and facepalmed at the little slip. Damn her teammates for being so observant. It was a good thing but could they not use it to pry into her private life.

She looked at them from between her slender fingers and huffed. "Yes he's a guy. Is that a problem? I trust him to know what he was talking about considering he gave me the advice based off what someone he knew did to get stronger."

Blake tilted her head and put a hand on her hip. "So you know him well enough for him to tell you about his friends?"

Weiss thought back to the airship two days ago and made a nervous sound as she took a half a step back. "Well no we just met."

Ruby rubbed her head and looked at Weiss curiously. "So you just met him but your taking advice from him?"

The thought struck Weiss. They did just meet and not ten minutes later she was taking advice from him. Now she had badgered him for it but still, why did she take the advice?

Yang looked between the other three girls and rose an eyebrow before folding her arms under her breasts while leaning back. "So you just met some guy and took his advice?"

Weiss glared at Yang and poked her chest. "Mr. Arisato is not just some guy. He's a very mature and accomplished man."

The other three girls all had different reactions to that bit of info. Blake felt her stomach squeeze followed by annoyance at Weiss' defense of Minato. She had the same opinion but it felt strange that the Schnee heiress felt the same about him. He was her… her what? Blake shrunk in on herself slightly as she pondered that thought.

Ruby smiled. "Oh Minato! Yeah he's pretty cool." She looked over at Yang and grabbed her sisters arm. "He saved Yang After all so he's a friend in my book." A curious look came to the young reapers face as she pouted slightly in confusion. "I haven't seen him since last night though. I wonder where he is?"

Yang Grinned outwardly but she was debating that topic herself throughout the day. She was grateful to Minato for sure, and his personality was alright. Hell he didn't even oogle her once! But personally she had mixed feelings about him. Minato had been an interesting person to meet to say the least. She still had to talk to him about her change of heart in watching Jaune as well. Looking down at Ruby She ruffled her hair much to the girls dismay.

"Stop it Yang!" Ruby whined while stepping away, her hands slapping at Yang's.

The blond smiled softly and then took a deep breath. "Yeah, he's alright."

Weiss was caught off guard by their calm reactions but remembered that they'd all met before and worked together during initiation. She cleared her throat and threw her asymmetrical ponytail over her shoulder as a smug look came to her face. "See. He's a good man and it would do you well to heed his advice. He is a fully trained hunter after all."

Blake, Ruby and Yang looked surprised at that. Yang stayed quiet but Ruby started jumping up and down asking about his weapon. A fully trained hunter had to have a bad ass one.

Weiss was about to respond when she realized she didn't know what his weapon was. "Um. Well…" She trailed off.

"His weapon is a straight Katana similar to a ninjato but much longer. A fairly impractical weapon but he uses it with a lot of skill." Blake said in that calm and simple tone she used to point out Weiss' family dealings two days ago.

Weiss and Ruby turned to look at Blake. With surprised looks. The younger girl rushed up to her and started shooting rapid fire questions about his weapon like the color, material weight and design. Blake tried to keep up answering as many as she could.

Weiss felt strange. She could feel jealousy starting to cloud her thoughts at the fact that Blake knew more about Minato than she did but there was a nagging in the back of her mind that asked her why she really cared.

Thinking about Minato made her stomach feel funny in a nervous way but she had sorted out her feelings and figured it wasn't love but admiration for the kind of person he appeared to be. He was a lot like what she wanted to be. She still had mixed feelings about him but it was becoming easier to not think about him in a way that made her heart race despite not knowing why.

Ever since the moment they spoke on the airship she'd felt drawn to him and her mind clouded up when she questioned him but the more time passed the clearer her thought process got when it came to him. He was a nice enough person and he was no nonsense in his approach to things as well as the fact he had good manners.

He was the kind of man her sister would be into if she had to guess but he wasn't her type. He reminded her to much of the men she met at functions minus the racism and self absorbed narcissism. She couldn't for the life of her understand where the jealousy was coming from. Her little outburst about Minato not just being some guy was even stranger in her mind. "Argh damn you Minato."

"What did I do?"

Just then all four girls stopped what they were doing and turned to see the blue haired man they were speaking about not three yards away standing next to the fountain. He had a calm disinterested look about him but in his defense she had just cursed him out loud.

Weiss's eyes widened and she could feel her heartbeat speed up slightly as her thoughts jumbled. Her mind was becoming hazy but not as much as yesterday. The comments that Blake had made about his weapon suddenly seemed much more relevant. She shook her head taking a breath trying to clear her mind. "What the hell is wrong with me?"

"Oh. Hey Minato!" Ruby greeted in a cheerful voice waving over to him happily. Her eyes became stars and she rushed up. "Can I see your sword!"

Minato turned to face them completely with his hands in his pockets and nodded to Ruby with a small smile. "Hello Ruby." He looked to the other three and bowed his head slightly. "Weiss, Yang, Blake."

Ruby grinned and struck a pose putting her hands on her hips. "I'm team leader." She said with confidence.

Minato turned his gaze back to her. "Congratulations." He said pulling up a long blue rectangular piece of wood and Ruby's eyes bugged out.

"Gimme!" She held her hands out looking at it reverently and he handed it to her with an amused smile. "Sure I'm coming back tomorrow so I'll pick it up then. Feel free to look at it in the mean time. I'd appreciate it if you cleaned it for me if you could though."

Ruby nodded absentmindedly as she drew the blade squealing at the beautiful metal that it was comprised of. She walked back grinning like an idiot as she examined it feeling the weight and what not.

Minato chuckled at her enthusiasm. She was so single minded it was refreshing. Looking to the others he straightened up. "Well if that's all I need to be going."

Weiss didn't say anything. She was trying to get her thoughts under control but Yang and Blake saw this as their opportunity to talk with him. Blake quickly walked to meet him followed closely by Yang with Weiss still feeling strange, followed at a more sedate pace with Ruby bringing up the rear swinging Minato's blade around making her own sound affects.

She looked at the others while playing around with Minato's sword feeling confused. She knew he was a good guy from what she'd seen and he seemed pretty cool especially if he was already a fully trained hunter. Not to mention he saved Yang and her partner Blake. He even let her hold on to his weapon for the night. Pretty dope in her opinion but, why the reactions? "They didn't even say hello for crying out loud! And I'm the socially awkward one."

~ 0 ~

Blake looked Minato in the eye taking in his calm expression and looked away while bowing her head slightly. "Thank you."

Minato tilted his head a little and shrugged. "For what?"

Blake's eyes widened as she looked up at Minato with confused eyes, her mouth hanging open slightly. "For… For." She looked at Yang who just stared back puzzled and shrugged before her gaze went down to her school shoes a feeling of awkwardness blooming in her gut.

Blake understood why Yang looked away. It had to do with the way she got on the team. Blake thanking Minato had brought back the memories for the two of them and it was obvious Yang still felt upset about Minako.

Looking back to Minato She didn't know exactly how to say it in a way where he would accept her gratitude. More than likely he would wave it off as him doing his due diligence and her misunderstanding it as him watching out for her.

She smiled to herself and rubbed her neck where the bruise he'd given her yesterday was just starting to fade. Whether he admitted it or not, despite the moment when he attacked her, he'd watched out for her. Someone who didn't care would have taken a laissez-faire approach to the situation instead of getting involved themselves. Hell the first thing he did after coming to was apologize to her. Relaxing she looked into his eyes again and smiled warmly. "That's for me to know and you to find out."

Minato rose an eyebrow, the corner of his mouth lifting for a fraction of a second but Blake caught it. "Thanks Minato for everything."

Weiss looked between the two, that feeling from last night coming back but not as strong as before although a sudden spike of anger directed towards Blake made her close her eyes and pinch the bridge of her nose in annoyance.

After Blake stepped back having finished her piece for now Yang stepped up with a grin plastered on her face trying to play off the seriousness of the meaning behind what she was about to say. "Hey Minato. I reconsidered the thing about baby siting for ya."

The other girls looked at Yang and then Minato in bewilderment. Ruby despite knowing about sex and babies was still a loveable, innocent and sheltered girl and took it at face value.

"Hey Yang you didn't tell me you were looking for work. You said after all the money you saved when that guy bought you those outfits last week you were set for a while." Looking from her sister to Minato she tapped her chin. "Is she going to go to your house to watch your kids on the weekends or something?"

Weiss and Blake jumped to different conclusions with the information they'd just gotten.

Blake being the deviant and closet pervert she was thought about something kinky to do with a single dad and a young beautiful babysitter. Though the idea of Yang and Minato together like that made her stomach twist and her chest ache. The thought both might be in a relationship put her on edge. They'd just met as well. When did they have time to start a relationship?

Weiss being slightly more logical and having grown up in the world of riches, mistresses, Lovers and questionable business due to her father along with being a healthy growing young woman came to a different conclusion. Although her train of thought consisted of sexual things as well it was more along the lines of a call girl if Ruby's statement about Yang having a man buy her expensive clothes was anything to go by.

Thinking more on it she didn't think it would be anything elicit if Yang mentioned it in front of all of them. Then again she probably forgot Ruby could snitch on her. She was torn between the idea that the relationship was strictly business or business.

The other three girls all looked at yang with varying levels of surprise and mixed emotions. Yang's eyes widened in shock at her bad choice of words and Ruby's added comment. Holding her hands up in surrender at the looks she was getting she nearly freaked out. Just what were they thinking with the way that came out.

~ 0 ~

While watching the the girls Minato smirked at the irony in the situation. He chuckled at the questioning looks Yang was getting from her team mates closing his eyes in amusement.

The blond looked around frantically for an out and her eyes landed on Minato their eyes locking. She clapped her hands together in a pleading motion and mouthed please help. Deciding he shouldn't push his luck he figured it was a good idea to save her from the misunderstanding she caused.

"Thank you Yang. I appreciate you keeping an eye on Jaune. You're a classmate so watching him will be less stressful than a teacher hovering around him."

Ruby looked at Yang with a sudden look of understanding. "Oh so that's why you kept staring at Jaune. Makes sense. In a weird way." Suddenly Ruby gasped and turned to Minato. "Wait Minato. You're a teacher?"

He looked at the four of them with a deadpan expression. "Yes."

The four of them looked at him in surprise. Weiss could understand why a teacher might pose as a student for initiation given what they went through. Yang and Blake would have died without him. The condition of him teaming with you getting you removed from the roster was obvious as well now. He was basically a one way ticket on the easy train to pass initiation.

Blake's eyes lit up and her bow twitched slightly at the realization that he'd be closer to her than she had thought he would. If he were a teacher here then she could talk with him regularly.

Weiss Got an uncomfortable feeling. She respected him and she thought she liked him at least as a person but the way she felt about him when he was around and the way her head clouded up put her on edge. If he were staying to teach however then she could ask him about it latter.

Yang gave their blue haired friend a curious look wondering why he'd asked her to watch Jaune if he could satay so close to the guy. His explanation just a minute ago was contrary to his request yesterday but… "oh." She thought suddenly with a smirk growing on her face as she winked at him. "Thanks for the save pretty boy."

Minato rolled his eyes at Yang's thoughts making her eyes widen in surprise. "Did I say that out loud? No couldn't have. How did he?"

Before Yang could finish her thoughts Ruby looked back at her sheathing Minato's blade holding it down by her side. "Yang. You're gonna be spying on Jaune? What for?" Ruby's comment dragged Weiss and Blake's attention back to her again.

Yang's eyes widened slightly and she waved a hand back and forth in front of her. "No no no, no way. Minato asked me to help keep an eye on him because he's…" She looked over at Minato with a pleading look begging for help.

He shrugged in response making Yang sigh in exasperation. "argh! Well lets just say he's a special case and Minato's gonna be watching him and I'm helping."

"A special case?" all the girls asked In different tones. Weiss thinking along the lines of his ability to strategies considering initiation. A mind like his was worth a lot if he enlisted in the military after Beacon or became a squad leader of trained hunters.

Blake on the other hand not having witnessed either was thinking more along the lines of special treatment.

Ruby was just confused. "Isn't special a different way of saying he needs help?"

Yang and the others blinked at Ruby's unintentional burn. Yang burst out laughing and almost fell over. "Wow Rubes, didn't know you had it in you. Now that was funny."

Weiss sighed looking away trying not to grin while Blake covered her mouth a pft sound escaping.

Ruby waved her arms around frantically. "No! That's not what I meant! That just slipped out!" But it was too late. Oh what would Jaune think if they told him about this?

Sighing Minato cleared his throat getting their attention. "It was interesting seeing you four again but I have things I need to get done in Vale before my first class tomorrow."

Yang caught the hint and put her hands on Ruby's shoulders marching her off. "Oh well nice seeing you again to professor. See ya in class tomorrow!" She called over her shoulder. Weiss seeing the blunt one of the group picking up on the hint quickly turned on her heel following the other two forgetting to ask him if they could speak more personally tomorrow.

Blake grabbed a fist full of her skirt resisting the urge to turn and follow her team. Despite not even a full day having gone by since they last met she could honestly admit to herself she missed Minato's company. She wanted to talk more with him about anything. She just wanted to hear his views and try to understand him. She honestly enjoyed their conversations, She thought they were fun.

"Minato I." She raised her head quickly and met his gaze, her words getting stuck in her throat. He had such a calm look on his face and his eyes. Those piercing silvery pools made her feel so insecure about herself.

Minato leaned back against the fountains edge watching her with a relaxed gaze. "I'm listening."

Blake swallowed and let out a breath straightening her posture. She scanned his features and brushed a hand through her side bangs wondering if the question she was about to ask him was rude or not. She was grateful to him without a doubt but still. "Why didn't you save us during initiation? From the get go I mean."

Minato watched Blake carefully taking note of her tense stance. He hadn't thought much about the events during initiation or anyone's actions except Minako's and Jaune's. They were the only two who seemed to have more going on with them conscious or not as far as strange and related events were concerned.

Shrugging he sighed and tilted his head lazily. "I did warn you and your classmates. I even told you to come up with a plan and not rush in."

Letting things play out was the way he usually lived life. Most people believed not caring and letting things happen was easy but on the contrary it takes an iron will to leave you're fate and life in the hands of others.

The memory of that night on the speeding train so long ago came to him. He'd been all to willing to let it crash killing Yukari, Junpei and himself. The only reason he tried to stop it was because Mitsuru, Yukari and Junpei had screamed and begged for someone to stop it. Funnily enough despite their cries he'd been the one to act.

"But." Blake spoke and then paused dragging Minato out of his musings. He looked at her curiously waiting for her to continue.

"But even though you did warn us you didn't actually stop us from just rushing in. Things could have ended a lot worse than they did." She said, emphasizing her thoughts with her hands.

He nodded and looked Blake in the eyes. "You're right. Things could have been worse and all because you refused to listen to me."

He stood up and looked over in the direction that Yang and the others had gone. "I'm not saying I'm always right and I'm not your parent. You're an adult now you all need to learn to think with your heads and not depend on others to think for you."

He looked back at her and glared slightly. "I'm not some almighty figure for you to put your faith in." He looked down closing his eyes. "Not yet anyways. And hopefully never."

Blake's mouth opened and closed a few times before she looked down nodding. "but why didn't you help till the last second though?"

Minato opened his eyes, a small smirk on his lips that Blake missed. "You didn't ask." Was his reply. It was quick, dispassionate and cold.

Blake felt a little betrayed. It was true she was a young woman now, not some little kid. She couldn't blame others for her not listening but he was a teacher.

Her fists clenched and she grit her teeth as she looked up at him. That didn't excuse his meh attitude and clinical approach. "Why would we have to ask for help in a dangerous situation like that! It doesn't make any sense!" She shouted, anger bleeding through into her tone.

Minato hummed before looking at the sky with a shrug. "Blake, the worlds a mean and nasty place. It'll break you if your not strong enough. Do or die situations are common in the line of work you chose. If you plan on changing the world get used to having to ask for everything you want from now on. People are greedy, selfish and lazy by nature. No ones just going to give you what you want for free."

Blake was stunned. To think he would say that to her. Her! She grew up being discriminated against and he had the nerve to tell her she still had to fight and ask for what she should be given.

She didn't know why but his response pissed her off. She wanted to hit him so bad right now. Why was their conversation going downhill like this, she'd just wanted to spend more time getting to know him and enjoy a good conversation.

Thinking back on it the way he lectured her and criticized her actions during initiation was methodical and cold. Like a teacher grading a test. Then all the thing's he'd ever said to her came spilling back into her mind but one thing stood out.

"Who is this we you speak of?"

She felt stupid. Never once had he'd actually said what their relationship was. They weren't friends if she had to take a guess. Partners was definitely out. He was a teacher but. Looking up at him she felt a tug in her chest and anger began to build up. She felt further from him than if they were just strangers. The way he deflected and used logic to stay away from emotional answers made him seem less human and more like a machine.

"You…" She trailed off quietly with clenched fists, her rage building up even more as she felt a strange swell of emotion. She Raised her right hand and slapped his calm looking face as hard as she could with a look of righteous fury in her eye's. "You bastard! You don't need a reason to help people!"

The emotions going through her mind were a jumble of disappointment and loss. It felt like someone she was close to had lied to her about everything. She wanted the Minato from initiation back. The one who berated her but tried to be nice. The one that jumped off the cliff without asking. The Minato that had willingly talked with her about getting equality for faunus.

~ 0 ~

Minato's head had been turned to the side from the force of the slap having not expected it. A red mark had formed on his cheek from the contact. The sensation of something trickling down his nose accompanied by the smell of rust made him pause. "Huh. I need to keep reminding myself Thanatos only has nul slash."

Reaching up he touched the blood from his nose and brought his hand down to look at it. A dark feeling of vindictiveness stirred in the back of his mind. He wiped the remainder of the blood with his sleeve before looking at Blake.

The look on her face wasn't one of anger like he'd seen before she slapped him but one of hurt and betrayal. Mitsuru's face layered over hers in his mind and he looked away with an ashamed look on his face. He remembered when he said those same words to Mitsuru during the thing with her 'fiance'.

Honestly he was torn. On one end he knew he was being a hypocrite but he was entitled to act how he wanted. He was ready and willing to accept the consequences for his actions. There was no higher power sitting in judgment of his actions. The people around you would punish you accordingly. He knew that all to well.

Looking back at Blake he decided to use this moment to his advantage. He was willing to grow the social links but romance was something he didn't want.

He put his hands in his pockets and stood up leaning in close to Blake. His nose just a couple centimeters from hers. Her amber eyes widened and she gulped. He had the same look in his eyes as when he choked her, they were cold and clear with that piercing, searching quality that made her feel exposed.

He spoke in a calm tone. "Blake. I'll tell you this once. If you ever hit me again outside of combat with the intent to make me feel pain, I'll make you hurt."

Blake shivered shrinking in on herself at his cold tone, staying quiet.

Staring into her eyes he saw that she was more afraid of the idea that he would start acting like he did in the forest than his actual threat. It didn't make much sense to him but it didn't really matter. She was cowed either way and hopefully now she would stop seeing him in a romantic light. He doubted even she knew yet but in his experience it was better to snuff out the candle before it grew into an inferno of emotions and memories.

He leaned back standing up straight figuring he could give her a more personalize answer to her question. Maybe it would fix her attitude towards him.

Thinking back to Neo he sighed mentally. He was going to have to make things clear to her that they weren't dating either. There were many types of love and manipulating people for their own health was one of them. Granted it led to them not wanting anything to do with you and being upset that you manipulated them but if done right they would be stronger and better for it. Most therapy worked the same way.

Sighing he closed his eyes slouching and scratched the side of his head. "If you want an easier to understand reason for why I didn't help then listen well. I'm not a hero. There's nothing but emptiness there. I refuse to play that role again."

He turned around walking off in the direction of the bullhead dock but he looked back at her over his shoulder with an annoyed look on his face. "Just because you built up an image of me and attached feelings to it doesn't make me responsible for living your expectations. You shouldn't trust everyone especially if they help you. After all." He turned back to face the bullheads. "I'm not even human."

His words hit her hard. She stumbled back a step and hugged herself. He'd called her out on her behavior and even pointed out without saying it that it was his betrayal of the image he represented in her mind that made her angry. He never had advertised himself as anything.

The last thing he said had caught her attention though. Being a faunus she understood the rejection and pain that came with being different. Or stripped of accomplishments. "He must have been through a lot to see the world the way he does. But he's wrong. Faunus are human even if we're different."

"Minato!" Blake's eyes were filled with conviction. She believed with all her mind and heart that it wasn't right for him to say he wasn't human. That was like accepting that faunus were less than people and no better than animals in her eyes.

Minato stopped and turned to face her. His expression unreadable. Blake clenched her fists tightly and took a few steps closer to him. Just because you feel like you're not human doesn't mean you should give up on it. That's just not right. Faunus are people too."

Her confidence grew with every word and soon enough she felt like she couldn't say anything wrong. "If faunus gave up the hope of equality because people refused to acknowledge us or treated us like animals then we would be no better than that. We strive for equality and a better future because it's worth it."

Minato despite the calm look on his face was mildly impressed by the conviction in her voice. Her drive and determination was something to behold. "If only she didn't run from her problems." He thought with a bit of humor. "If only life were so easy."

He was about to make a comment about not needing a reason to give up either, that life was all about the choices you make not just the good ones or the ones to fight for your beliefs. After all his choices had gotten him the tittle of messiah at the cost of everything he held dear. A trade he would never make again. "I'll help my friends if I ever get any again, support them where I can so long as they ask. But never again will I play the hero."

Blake Stamped her foot and glared at him. "I thought you were a better person than that Minato! Was what you told me in the forest even true? If it is you definitely don't practice what you preach."

Blake deflated and looked at Minato in bewilderment when he started laughing. He looked her in the eyes. His silvery pools clashing with her honey ones. "I don't preach. I answered your questions. Just because I know the answer to a question or problem in life doesn't mean I have to follow it."

He ran his hand through his bangs laughing quietly as a crooked smile spread across his lips. Blake blushed at the look and his laugh made her shiver, It was like chocolate to the ears.

"Blake, I told you the most peaceful, long lasting and effective solution to your questions. Just because outcomes are similar or effective doesn't make them equal or right."

Putting his hands in his pockets he walked off leaving a stunned Blake. It took her a few seconds to process that.

Looking up she saw Minato halfway to the bullhead docks and shouted as loud as she could. "Minato! Just how does that even make any sense!"

Looking over his shoulder he gave a twisted smile that made her gasp in shock. The look on his face was something she remembered seeing on Adam when he'd made the leap from freedom fighting to terrorism.

"Honestly it isn't that complicated. For example, killing a serial killer will save lives. Regardless of who does it whether a law enforcement agent of some kind, a potential victim or by legal execution. No matter who does it it's still technically murder though. Does it really matter how it happened? I'll bet that you don't care or that you're wondering what that has to do with the topic."

Blake nodded slowly in response feeling confused.

Sighing Minato shrugged. "At the end of the day a life is taken? Expediency and repercussions are all that really matter in life. That's what the legal system is for."

Blake gave Minato a weird look. "But that doesn't change the fact that situation and factors exist in the real world that the law can't handle."

Minato tilted his head to the side his twisted smile becoming more pronounced making Blake feel uncomfortable as he nodded slightly in consent. "True. Although it doesn't really matter. The criminal is dead and the fact remains, someone killed him."

Shrugging Minato sighed. "In the end It's ideals and morals that give perspective. Nothing else. You'd feel better knowing you got rid of a killer but guilty if you're the one who did it." He shrugged nonchalantly. "Laws and justice exist to make revenge and vindication seem noble. If you don't feel guilty for killing someone even a monster then you either aren't human or you're just like the person you ended."

Blake shook her head and rubbed her temples. He wasn't making much sense. "I still don't get It."

Minato looked up at the sky and tapped his foot a few times. "You're thinking about it to literally. It's not about the scenario itself but the concept and the principles. If the serial killer dies they lose. If they can cover up their crime to get off scot free then for all intents and purposes they're the winner. If you know they're the killer and that they'll continue doing so but you can't prove it then you lose, fair play."

Minato took a hand out of one of his pockets and gestured to Blake. "The question is will you stoop to their level to get 'justice' and if so are you any better?"

Blake felt her legs get weak and looked down at her hands feeling sick at the thoughts going through her mind. Memories of missions in the white fang. Looking at her hands she contemplated. "What's the point of becoming a huntress if I can only do so much to help? What's the point of trying so hard if they act outside of the law? How much good can I really do?"

A shadow fell over her and she looked up into Minato's eyes. He sighed shaking his head. "Blake, you're not wrong to wonder what the point of trying is when chaos exists." He gently patted her shoulder.

"That you try in the face of such adversity proves there's a point. The fact you're willing to struggle when the odds are against you, the lengths you're willing to go while staying true to yourself. That is Where you'll find the answer to my question."

Blake blinked a few times. Minato's constant changing lines of logic and topics were making her head spin. She was starting to think he wasn't mentally stable but his logical approach to things and persistence in trying to get her to think and understand concepts kept her intrigued but still undoubtedly confused. She felt like a kid trying to talk to adults again but he was willing to guide her through the thought process.

"If the point of something is in the struggle then what's the greater meaning to it?"

Minato's eyes widened in surprise. Even if she didn't know it yet her thought process was well on the way to finding the answer to her own question of what the point was.

Putting his hands back in his pockets he looked at her expectantly. "Tell me Blake, if you struggled and fought for something wouldn't you like to get a reward from it?"

Blake tilted her head and then rose an eyebrow. "Duh. Who wouldn't. Call me greedy but I wouldn't work so hard to just let everything slip by me without getting a prize." Then her eyes widened as her own words struck her. "That's the point of hunting down a killer just to let them go if they win by fair play?"

A strange glint appeared in Minato's eyes like he was expecting something from her. It made her feel giddy thinking that something she could figure out would make him so excited.

"Wait. You said fair play Right?" Minato nodded slowly. "But earlier you asked if I was willing to stoop to the level of the killer." Blake held her right elbow in her left hand while rubbing her chin. "So then I can do what I want to get where I want or need?"

Minato's smile faded and he sighed, his posture becoming more relaxed. She was so close but he supposed she'd need to think on everything more. "No. You need to think more along the lines of action than expedience and repercussions. The world favors those that act on it not react to it. The question is will you stoop to any level to get 'justice' and if so are you any better than the ones you claim to fight?"

Blake scowled and folded her arms a response coming on reflex. "Better is a relevant term, it's not a deciding factor. Expedience and repercussion aren't the neutral they're whats accepted because it keeps things clean. Like you said the end isn't the goal its the means you use to accomplish your task."

Blake blushed furiously and started stammering when Minato suddenly Started ruffling her hair. She almost freaked out when he touched her bow and her ears under it but he didn't mention anything.

"Blake never grow complacent and always question reality but never distrust it." Minato leaned next to her human ear and whispered. "Now I know you can find the answer."

Blake froze, her heart raced and the sheer excitement at whatever it was she was doing was making him act this way was making her giddy. She tried to figure out whatever this was by thinking back on everything he'd told her since they met.

The conversation about capitalism and choices. The questions and answer's about how to fix the problems of an unfair world. The lecture about getting the support of those you were against by promising future aid. The implications of keeping promises to maintain relations. Never acting unless asked or feeling obligated. Then it clicked. "Just because the answer is long lasting or effective doesn't make it right."

"To be or not to be isn't the question…" She looked up ant Minato. Her amber eyes getting lost in his silvery pools, a slight blue glow shining deep within them. His crooked smile made her feel all the more confidant. "But the answer." Her eye's widened remembering his self admitted wrongs in his actions but his denial of being sorry. He apologized for his actions but not the principle. "You. You are one strange man Minato."

With that she froze in surprise when he gave her a quick but not rushed hug. She wished he'd kept his arms around her but she had a feeling that would be asking to much. Actually she felt relaxed. She grinned and Minato smiled back but his expression slowly melted back into an emotionless mask again.

Just then there was a loud crack and Minato felt his other cheek stinging. He looked at Blake noticing her smug grin. "That's for being one confusing jackass. I don't care if you're a teacher you deserved that."

He couldn't bring himself to push her feelings away or retaliate at the moment. He didn't even make good on his earlier threat. He knew it would set a precedent of not going through with his punishments with her but he was to content with her success in figuring out the answer to his logic question that he figured she earned a few privileges.

Turning around he chuckled and walked off. Just before boarding the bullhead he turned to look at Blake and nodded. "I'm impressed Ms. Belladonna." Boarding the bullhead to the central station in Vale he saw the victorious smile spread across her lips before she turned around heading off to follow her teammates.

"I am thou… and thou art I… From the sea of they soul, I come… Thou shall have the blessing of the High Priestess arcana."

After grabbing the velvety blue card and pocketing it he he pulled out the cards Ozpin had given him as part of his short notice bonus. He was sure his monthly pay would be much smaller and pulled a small amount aside thinking about what Roman had said about bringing extra money for their mutual friend.

He was almost 100% sure it was Neo. The amount of the icy treat he'd seen her put away in that petite body of her's was scary. He figured that with the location named three scoops, ice cream would definitely be on the menu. A couple hundred would cover it… probably. Hopefully."

He sighed as he lay back closing his eyes for the 45 minute ride to Vale. Looking down he frowned at the hole in his turtleneck. "I need to get new clothes too."

~ Authors notes ~

Alright that's a wrap for now. Till next time.

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Now for the relationship poll. The candidates are, drum roll pleas…

17) Yang Xiao Long - 41

17) Weiss Schnee - 81 - (1st)

25) Winter Schnee - 61

17) Blake Belladonna - 70 - (3nd)

21) Neopolitan A La Mode - 65 - (4th)

25) Cinder Fall - 62 - (6th)

19) Emerald Saustri - 18

18) Coco Adel - 64 - (5th)

18) Velvet Scarlatina - 20

17) Pyrrha Nikos - 80 - (2rd)

17) Penny Polandina - 29

17) Minako Arisato - 58

38) Raven Branwen - 58

Harem top 6

1 - Weiss

2 - Pyrrha

3 - Blake

4 - Neo

5 -Coco

6 - Cinder

Poll closes as of the posting of ch 18

Well it looks like its between Pyrrha and Weiss for best girl

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Minako's social links

Unknown - 10

Unknown - 10

Unknown - 10

Boy in the blazer - 10

Minato Arisato - 1

Yang Xiao Long - 4

Ruby Rose - 3

Jaune Arc - 3

Lei Ren - 2

Nora Valkyrie - 2

Weiss Schnee - 1

Blake Belladonna - 1

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Minato's social links

Thanatos - 10

Weiss Schnee - 1

Blake Belladonna - 4

Pyrrha Nikos - 2

Jaune Arc - 1

Yang Xiao Long - 1

Ruby Rose - 1

Neo Politan - 3

~ Social Links/Arcana ~

0 The fool - Kid in the Blazer - Orpheus Telos

1 The Magician - Unknown - Surt

2 The High Priestess - Blake Belladonna - Scathach

3 The Empress - Weiss Schnee - Alilat

4 The Emperor - Unknown - Odin

5 The Hierophant - Unknown - Kohryu

6 The Lovers - Neo Politan - Cybele

7 The Chariot - Nora Valkyrie - Thor

8 Strength - Yang Xiao Long - Siegfried

9 The Hermit - Lei Ren - Arahabaki

10 Wheel of Fortune - Unknown - Norn

11 Justice - Unknown - Melchizedek

12 The Hanged Man - Unknown -Attis

13 Death - Minato Arisato - (Thanatos for Minato, Nyx avatar for Minako)

14 Temperance - Pyrrha Nikos - Yurlungur

15 The Devil - Unknown - Beelzebub

16 The Tower - Unknown - Chi You

17 The Star - Unknown - Helel

18 The Moon - Unknown - Sandalphon

19 The Sun - Unknown - Asura

20 Judgment - Jaune Arc - Messiah

21 The World / Aeon - Ruby Rose - Metatron

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Thank you for reading

P.S. …smile

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