Disclaimer: I don't own RWBY its the rightful property of RoosterTeeth.
Italics are thoughts
Bold and Italics are flashbacks
Italics and underline are summons talking
**Communications through scrolls and other devices
Chapter 21 Trust
(Time skip: months later)
(Location: Combat class Beacon Battle Academy kingdom of Vale Remnant)
When Cardin Winchester was accepted into Beacon he has vowed two goals. One to become the strongest student in the school and second, to become famous. Both goals were tied together so he wont have a problem fulfilling one without fulfilling the other. Once he was strong enough to obtain the title of the strongest he will eventually build up a popularity in the school. By the time he graduates there won't be a living soul who hasn't heard his name.
He will be praised by all and the Grimm will tremble fear when they see him. Those were his plans upon entering the academy become the best huntsman there is similar to Professor Port. Scratch that, maybe similar but nothing like him. Maybe become have the same reputation as the veteran team STRQ, that would be worthy of him. All the woman would want him and all the men would be jealous of him they would die to be him, the rest will cheer his name and consider him as the ultimate hero.
His experience in Beacon didn't started bad. He was put in a team with Russel a long friend of he's. However he couldn't say the same for the rest of his team. It made him glared thinking of the situation he had a couple of opinions for the team. At least he was made leader, so those were positive points for him. But getting to the topic of team members he was going to start with his partner. A girl he didn't got along with and first impression was ruined Melanie Malachite.
What could he said about her? She was annoying as hell though she wasn't bad looking, she was attractive but that was it. Her attitude needed some work and asides looks she was a good fighter. There was no need to say she was a good addition to the team. The other member of the team was her twin sister Militiades or Miltia for short. She was Russel's partner and like her sister, she was also skilled. But unlike Melanie, Miltia didn't had a temper or an attitude problem. She was probably easy to get along but he didn't care about.
Together they were team CMRM a tough with different tastes in about everything. Cardin had no idea how his team hasn't fallen off yet after all these months since they officially became a team after the initiation. Him and Russel were different from the twins and let's just say the teamwork was questionable. Though he hasn't said anything questioning the girl's abilities, he decided to let them do what they want.
As long as they prove useful during battle that's all that matters to him. Now he was very well aware once he starts at Beacon he was going to meet competition. Those that were going to become his rivals. They were the ones who needed to get crush in order to fulfill his goals. The Winchester has found that rival, the person he has come to hate. That was the blond knight known as Jaune Arc.
Ever since he was first met the blond at the initiation he knew he was going to be trouble. Seeing him taking control of the situation, and taking command angered him. Then he saw the knight in action and his hatred grew twice. Cardin couldn't stand him in his eyes he was nothing but a know it all and a show off. Obviously the Arc became leader of his own team fueling his rage and jealousy even more. He needed to put the knight in his place for good and what better chance than right now.
Currently he was fighting Jaune as part of Goodwitch combat class. Now at first he thought it was going to be easy, he couldn't be any more wrong. The blond knight has proven to be stubborn and a hard opponent to bring down. No matter how many attacks he unleashed the knight would blocked them and he wound counter. If not, he would dodge and counter. It was getting on his nerves it was impossible to land a hit on the blond.
The leader of CMRM heard Russel shouting at him" beat him up Cardin" and the tall teen rolled his eyes. Yeah right, easier said than done. This guy wasn't giving him a break and it angered him. Because just from this match he could see the huge difference between them. When it comes to skills and experience, it seemed the Arc was ahead of him.
The jealousy got worse, if he was so experienced then why the heck was he doing here? Sure, Beacon was among the most prestigious academies in the kingdoms someone like Jaune shouldn't be here. Might as well let him graduate earlier and face on his life as huntsman. Even with semblance he couldn't touched him. His ability to increased his own strength on his attacks wasn't helping at all. Another dodged by the blond knight and he countered with a barrage of sword attacks that the Winchester couldn't blocked.
The tall teen fell to the ground glaring at his opponent. Why did Jaune has to be better than him at everything? Why!? The Arc has become one big road block preventing him from fulfilling his goals. He can't become the strongest and most popular with him in this school. At this rate, he might not even become second best. Cardin growled no longer focusing on the fight.
He got hit in the face from the knight's shield and an attack that sent him back to the ground. The Winchester glared, how he wanted to beat Jaune up so badly. He swung his mace straight at his head but the blond blocked it with his shield. The Arc rolled away and performed an upward swing that sent him again to the ground. The alarm sounded meaning the end of the match his eyes widened. He didn't realized his aura has reached the red it was over, he has lost.
"That's enough" Goodwitch walked over to the combatants" students as you can see Mr. Winchester's aura has fallen to the red. In a tournament style duel, this indicates Mr. Winchester is no longer fit for battle and the official may called the match. Mr. Winchester you failed to refer to your scroll during combat to check your aura status. Doing so will help you when to attack or when to go for a more defensive strategy. We wouldn't want you to be gobble up by a Beowulf now would we?"
Cardin only glared getting to his feet his eyes were on the Arc.
Jaune didn't replied he only sheathed Excalibur back. He tried not to sigh because he knew the next words that were going to be said by the blond teacher.
"Remember everyone, the Vital Festival is only a few months away. It wont be long now before students from the other kingdoms will start arriving in Vale, so keep practicing. Those who choose to participate in the combat tournament will be representing all of Vale."
"The Vital Festival…." the blond knight stood in deep thought yet he saw the members of his team very excited, especially Ruby and Yang they were eager looking forward to the tournament.
"Hey Arc!"
Jaune was caught off guard just as he was exiting the battle arena. He mentally sighed when he saw Cardin walking to him not looking happy in the least. The blond knight had to sigh loudly this time, he knew what this was about. Ever since he put the Winchester in his place back at the initiation the tall teen had a big grudge with him.
Honestly he could care less about the leader of CMRM since he had other things to worry about. These were the times he wished time could go slow, but it was inevitable. The Vital Festival was coming, meaning the tournament will begin and the invasion will take place. In just a few months away everything he has trained for will be put to the test. The Arc remembered the tournament started a month after the beginning of the second semester. If he wasn't mistaking it was around the third week.
But going back to Cardin the way he was glaring at him it gave a whole new meaning to the term" if looks could kill". Jaune knew where this was going the Winchester wasn't going back down after he beat him. He already knew the kind of person he is, especially when he hasn't change in this time line. Looking for trouble with him because he got beaten with him.
To the blond knight he was an immature bully with the brain of an eight year old brat. But of course he will back down and not insult him. Following school rules of respecting your classmates he will not say a word to further anger the tall teen. As arrogant as Cardin is he didn't deserve to get a reply from him. Not if it was to feed his ego. He lost count how many times he has asked himself what was Ozpin thinking accepting someone like him to his school?
"Yes Cardin what is it?" he kept his tone calm.
"You think you're so tough don't you?" the Winchester kept his glare.
"Cardin, are you going to let some defeat turn you into an angry maniac? It was just combat class it was nothing official. Worry when you get official missions."
"I'm not done with you yet Jauney boy" he grabbed the knight by the collar of his vest.
"Don't call me that" the Arc has suddenly snapped removing the teen's hands from him he hated to be called "Jauney boy", it reminded him when he was the old Jaune the weak and failure Jaune.
"Hit a nerve I see? You're not really that special. Just because you have done some missions before starting this school. You're no better than the rest of us."
"Are we really doing this? I have to go because we still have more classes" the knight had it with his jealous act" if you don't want to lose to me again Cardin, why don't you train hard and get stronger. Start thinking like a true huntsman and forget about that ego of yours. You're a team leader now, time to act like one…."
That was it, Jaune didn't care anymore as he walked out. He hoped the Winchester didn't stopped him because so close to lose it. He was preparing himself to fight a powerful enemy and Cardin here was acting like a spoiled child who didn't got his lollipop pr his favorite toy. Who was coming up with the most ridiculous comebacks all because he was upset for losing against him in a match.
The CMRM leader watched him leave with a glare he dare tell him he had a big ego, what about his ego? Thinking he's all that because he had more experience than the rest of the students. At least he knew now he annoy him calling the knight" Jauney boy".
He took his mace on his back as he marched up from the arena like the Arc said, they still had other classes. The Winchester went to regroup with his team they had virtual combat class with Professor Amber next. The tall teen gave a sigh he still didn't like the class no matter how real it looked. Beating down computer generated Grimm wasn't fun, he saw no point to it.
(Scene change)
In Amber's class team CMRM were ready for combat as they stepped on the virtual chamber. According to the brown haired teacher since everyone has being progressing admirably she decided to increase the difficulty bit. The results the matches were going to be more challenging and she has also decreased the number of Grimm waves to one.
But one wave will be enough to test the team's endurance and potential. Amber would also be evaluating teamwork as well as leadership. The team entered the chamber as the door closed, readying their weapons for the coming fight. Though Cardin didn't looked that excited to begin. The video game class as he calls it wasn't that much of a challenge for the Winchester.
*Location Forever Fall forest, number of targets twenty, difficulty level four. Virtual combat simulator activated.*
The silver room has transformed in a second. Now the team was surrounded by exact duplication of the Forever Fall forest. Russel took his knives, Miltia readied her claws, Melanie her bladed heels and Cardin his mace they were ready to welcome the incoming wave of virtual Grimm.
*Remember since the difficulty has being increased and the numbers are too much for you. Please let me know and I will end the simulation.*
"That wont be necessary" Cardin was ready for the fight.
*Very well wave commencing in ten..nine..eight..seven..six..five..four..three..two..one..begin.
"I know I'm probably wasting my time asking" Melanie started" got any strategies?"
"Yeah smash any Grimm that gets close to you" was the Winchester's reply.
"Miltia stay close to me" the twin in white took a glance at her sister, honestly she didn't trusted Russel or her so called" partner".
The twin in red gave a nod as she spotted the coming Grimm wave running to her and the team. Team CMRM took noticed when they saw the large numbers of the dark creatures. Understanding Amber's point of the difficulty being increased because all of the Grimm were alpha Beowulf type and Ursai major. The alpha and major types were stronger than the regular type Grimm. It was clear that holding back in this fight was out of the question meaning, they had to fight with everything they have. Including using their semblance.
The first Grimm made contact with the leader and Cardin used his semblance to increase the power of his mace. He smashed the head of the alpha Beowulf killing it instantly. Russel used the dust that was equipped on his knives which it was yellow type dust, the element of electricity.
The mohawk teen zap one while cutting its throat he followed cutting more Beowulf after successfully dodging their claws. Miltia equipped ice dust on her claws freezing and cutting the creatures that were getting closer to her. Melanie decided to test her new bladed heels, which they were sharper than her regular ones. And they proved their worth as she sliced one Beowulf in half within contact.
Cardin spotted the wave of Ursai major heading the team's way. What he knew of the major types they needed to be taken down with a strong force. Mostly enough dust to harm the exposed parts of their bodies where they had no armor. The Winchester had his answer to destroy them in one hit, a grin formed on his lips his semblance was the answer.
He flowed more of his aura into his mace increasing the destructive force of the weapon thanks to his ability to increase physical power. Without paying attention to his team he unleashed the attacked on the first Ursai destroying the creature completely as it turned to ashes.
More Grimm were going after the rest of the team. Russel has teamed up with Miltia both using large reserve of their dust to create powerful attacks harming the Ursai that were in their way. Melanie provided assistance for her sister and teammate as used her semblance causing a tremor from hitting the ground with her heels. The Ursai major were stunned by the short earthquake giving time for the twin in red to strike them.
The ones that survived were hit by the mohawk teen's electrical attack from his knives. The Grimm's number have being decreased, leaving a few left. Only eight remain as counting since the leader took another one smashing its head with his mace.
"Difficulty increased? Yeah right, this is too easy. All these Grimms are nothing but weaklings. I want a real challenge."
Cardin's arrogance has become a great danger to himself as he hasn't realized an Ursai attacking him from behind. The tall teen gasped feeling its sharp claws hitting his back. Good thing his aura will be able to heal it with time, but it still hurt. It didn't matter how many times they could heal their injuries, the attacks received from Grimm hurt like a bitch.
There were many things aura could do, except subdue pain. The team leader fell to the ground glaring at the creature who dared to attack him. He saw another Ursai running to him and he was downed, his eyes widened at the realization he could seriously get hurt here.
"There's no way I'm losing to this sorry excuse for an exercise."
The Winchester saw the same Ursai that attacked him about to perform another attack. He did the only thing to came to his mind to protect himself. His eyes were on Melanie who was still fighting another Ursai that was giving trouble to Miltia and Russel. The tall teen grabbed the girl in white and put her in front of him.
At first Melanie didn't had a clue what was her partner thinking, until she felt a pair of claws hitting her stomach. Her eyes widened as she saw the Grimm has attacked her. The girl in white gave a short glance at her partner and leader, the realization hit her hard. Cardin Winchester has used her as a shield to protect himself against the Grimm.
The leader of CMRM decided to attack that it has lowered its guard. He crushed the Grimm with his mace ending the wave and the combat exercise. Miltia immediately ran to her sister, concern was all over her face. The girl was able to get to her feet the injury really hurt, even as her aura was healing it the pain was still there.
Russel was shocked at the sight, he never thought Cardin would do such a thing. But then again, maybe he knew he was capable of doing something like that. He Winchester gazed at his partner he knew she will be fine. However he was receiving a glare from the girl in white. She wasn't the only one, her twin sister in red was also giving him a death glare.
*Wave completed* Amber was keeping her tone in check, she didn't sounded happy* virtual simulation deactivated*.
The Forever Fall forest returned to the original state of the silver room. As they left the room Cardin immediately noticed that several people in the classroom were giving him the same glare the twins gave him. First there was team JPRY all four members weren't happy with the display during the combat exercise. He could care less about the glares and disapproving expression from Jaune the Winchester was unfazed ignoring them.
Another team that was giving him the hate glare was team WRNB, all four members felt the same way just like the previous team. Everyone saw how he used Melanie as a shield to protect himself. Staring at the teacher he saw Amber was also giving him that glare, of course it wasn't as hateful as the rest. The team leader didn't care nor regret what he did, he was looking after himself.
"Mr. Winchester maybe next time if you can't block an enemy attack you should try dodging it. Anything will be better than using your own teammate for a shield. I hope it doesn't happen again."
"Tch whatever" he muttered leaving not bothering looking back as the teacher was checking on the girl in white if she was all right.
"Same old Cardin. This is no different when it was CRDL" Jaune shook his head nothing has change with the Winchester in this time line.
(Time skip)
During lunch Melanie didn't wanted to seat in the same table with the same person who used her for a shield. She was so angry with Cardin and it was worse when he didn't apologize to her. Heck, he didn't looked like he was sorry for what he did. To think someone like him was her leader, and partner. At least she had support from Miltia, her sister felt the same way of not wanting to be seated in the same table with the rest of the team.
The big question, where to sit? The cafeteria was a bit packed more than usual today. There weren't many empty tables but there was one occupied table that brought the attention of the twins. The table where teams JPRY and WRNB were seated. They all looked in a chatty mood and they all looked like they were enjoying each others company. When Melanie thought about it both teams have grown close in the past months to a point that it made her jealous.
It made her wonder why her team has never made the approach to try and be friendly with the other teams. That's right Cardin and Russel weren't the kinds of people who had many friends because they were jerks. Its not that she or her sister were antisocial they never minded having a couple of people that can be consider acquaintances.
That was tough back when they were still working at the Klub. Aside from Yang's visit, not many young people set foot at the dance club. Due of its nature of being a social place for a more adult environment. Rarely any teenagers would go, she and Miltia were the only ones present within the age gap. The twin in white gave her sister a quick signal, telling her where they were seating and she obeyed with a nod. The twins went to the empty seats with trays with food on the busy JPRY/WRNB table joining the group.
"Hey guys" Jaune was the first to salute the sisters with a smile.
"Are you feeling better Mel?" Yang asked and by now the girl in white got used of being called that.
"I'm fine, my aura finished healing the injury. Thanks for the concern."
"I can't believe that Cardin would dare do something like that. I can't stand him" glared the blond brawler her red eyes were on the tall teen seated on the table with Russel.
"And to his own teammate none the less" Pyrrha shook her head.
"Where was I? Oh!" Nora brought a new topic as she gave a grin staring at the group" so there we were, in the middle of the night…."
"It was day" replied Ren.
"We were surrounded by Ursai…."
"They were Beowulfs."
"Dozens of them!"
"Two of them."
"But they were no match and in the end Ren and I took them down, and made a boat load lien of Ursai selling skin rugs" the Valkyrie gave a triumphant smile.
"She's being having this occurring dream for nearly a month now" the magenta eyed teen gave a sigh.
The twins blinked as their eyes fell on the leader of the team. The white haired girl noticed their gazes and shook her head in return.
"Don't ask I gave up on reason with her a long time ago" said Weiss resuming polishing her nails.
"So Melanie?" Jaune decided to bring a new topic now that he has heard Nora's occuring dream again" how is it being with Cardin?"
"You're really asking me that now?" the girl in white was shocked and annoyed at the question.
"Not good right?" of course he knew it wasn't good he just needed to hear it from her words.
"Of course it hasn't being good. I don't know how we've being able to put it with him all these months. He's a brute, a jerk and immature I don't see him qualify to be a leader at all."
"He's also a pervert" added Miltia" there was that time when Melanie was in the shower and-" the girl in red had her mouth covered courtesy of her sister who glared at the group with flushed cheeks" you didn't hear that."
"I didn't" Arc quickly replied.
"Same with me" followed Ruby with her cheeks red imagining the embarrassing moment.
"That goes double with me" followed Yang.
"We have no idea what you're talking about" Pyrrha decided to be the opinion of everyone.
"He saw you butt naked?"
"…..…..."
"Nora?" Ren sighed trying to avoid the killing glare the Malachite in white was giving to his childhood friend" we're suppose to ignore we heard that."
"But Cardin saw her-"
"Enough!" snapped Melanie her face red" point is I can't stand being on the same team with HIM."
"Can't say the same for Russel, he isn't that bad" Miltia said defending the mohawk teen and her partner.
"Seriously Miltia?" her sister couldn't believe what she was hearing.
"But its true. Sure he's a coward sometimes and he can be pretty dumb. But he can be nice when it comes down to it" the girl in red added her thoughts" guess my only complain is he always follows Cardin like a lost puppy."
"Not a puppy, a monkey. He always follows and imitates anything he does. Not to mention he never goes against his word, talk about blind faith. I don't know if I should dislike him or feel sorry for him."
"That's...True" Miltia sighed.
"Guess monkey sees monkey does" Yang decided to add some humor to the table but it failed to meet the positive feedback.
"Just as I thought, they're feeling miserable being part of his team" Jaune mentally sighed though he never thought if Dove and Sky felt the same way or maybe they were no better than Russel.
"Ow that hurts!"
Blake who the entire time was focusing on the book she was reading lowered it when she heard the familiar voice. Her amber eyes narrowed when she saw fellow faunus and member of her organization Velvet Scarlatina being bullied by none other than Cardin. The sight angered her, but she needed to control herself. Her conscious was telling her to march up there and beat the crap out of the Winchester, but doing so was wrong.
Also she didn't had to do anything because she knew what Velvet was capable off. She has seen the rabbit faunus in combat and she could handle herself against someone like him no trouble at all. However, she was known for being a pacifist when it came to people who mistreated their kind. No matter how much she didn't like it, Velvet chose not to use violence against anyone who bullies her.
Apparently the sight wasn't go unseen by just Blake. Everyone from team JPRY and the rest of team WNRB watched with frowns and glares. Jaune glared it was just like in his time Velvet was being bullied by Cardin, even if in this time line she was a member of the Shadow Fang in secrecy she was still a victim. This reminded him when he was bully victim to the Winchester.
But obviously that didn't happened in this time line now that he was properly trained and experienced in combat. Cardin couldn't bully him but the rabbit faunus chose not to defend herself like in his time. His blue eyes narrowed maybe this time he should do something about it. The knight wasn't going to stand and him do whatever he likes to someone who didn't deserve this kind of treatment. Before he was about to get up from the table, someone else has beat him to it.
Jaune was shocked when it was Melanie who got up, glaring at the bully. Her glare was stronger than the one he was giving him, or even his team and everyone else. Miltia wasn't happy either but her gaze wasn't as filled with anger like her sister. But the fact her partner Russel was present too and he was laughing as he was enjoying the Winchester tormenting the poor faunus girl made her angry. Without a word the Malachite in white left the table, her mint green eyes on her target Cardin. Her sister following her everyone could see there was going to be trouble for a certain leader.
"What are they doing?" asked Weiss.
"Going to give Cardin a piece of their mind" said Yang with a grin she was looking forward for the twins to put the Winchester in his place.
"But they can't do that, they will get in trouble" said the heiress.
"Better than do nothing" replied Blake keeping her eyes on her comrade faunus.
"Please stop" cried Velvet feeling the pain of her long ears getting pulled.
"I told you they were real" Cardin told Russel.
"What a freak."
"Stop it" Melanie grabbed the rabbit faunus away from the tall teen.
Russel backed away when he saw Miltia glaring at him. Obviously she wasn't happy that he was supporting Cardin in his bully role.
"What do you think you're doing?" the Winchester frowned at the girl in white.
"Just leave her alone. What did she do to you that you have to pull her ears?"
"Nothing she's just a freak."
"That's no excuse to hurt her ears" Miltia replied.
"How about if I pull your ears instead? Would you like it?" Melanie was actually thinking of doing it, just to hear him scream or maybe squeal like a pig.
"You wouldn't dare" Cardin got close glaring at his partner.
"After using me for a Grimm shield, I will try anything" she gave an equal glare.
"Are you okay?" the twin in red asked the faunus.
"Yes I'll be fine, thanks" Velvet could still feel the sting on her ears.
"The next time he grabs your ears" the Malachite in white turned to her" kick his ass."
"Break his legs!" Nora cheered for the twin in bladed heels.
"Russ, stop that freak" ordered the Winchester.
The mohawk teen was about to obeyed before Miltia got in front of him, red claws readied for a fight. He gulped clearly aware he couldn't take her on in a fight especially since she seemed to be more experienced than him.
"Um...Cardin I…."
"You don't have to do anything he says Russel" said the twin in red" let the faunus go. Wouldn't it be better to mess with someone who likes to fight back? Isn't that right Melanie?"
"I couldn't agree more Miltia. If you want to get to her you will have to get through us first."
"Get a load of this Russ, these two are freak lovers. As things couldn't get any worse, now I have members of my team who likes the freaks."
"Last I check, they're call faunus not freaks. The only freak I see is you."
"Take that back" the Winchester glared at his partner she was asking for it.
"I'm not taking anything back. Why don't you try and make me?"
Cardin finally lost it as he launched a fist which Melanie caught with both her hands. The next thing that happened was unexpected as the Malachite in white did a perfect split and punched the tall teen in his sensitive spot. It was right between his legs, in the Winchester family jewels. He immediately fell on his knees from the horrible pain.
Russel turned pale as he has felt the pain too, he has quickly covered his family jewels. But he wasn't the only one, back in the table Jaune and Ren did the same feeling that hit. Ruby, Pyrrha and Weiss were all shocked at the sight, Blake grinned while using her book to cover it she was enjoying the painful display a little too much, Yang has actually laughed at the display clearly she supported Melanie's attack.
"Well Nora she didn't broke his legs like you said. But she DID broke something else" the brawler chuckled.
"Holy Monty balls!" it had to be the Valkyrie to come up with such a phrase.
"The horror, the pain, the agony" Jaune was still traumatized" I am never going to make her angry for as long as I live."
"That's horrible!" gasped Weiss" that is worse then what Cardin was doing to that faunus."
"I think he had it coming" Blake muttered going back to her book.
"That is painful, truly painful" Ren removed some sweat from his forehead, hoping he doesn't go through that ever.
"Should we do something?" asked Ruby looking worried seeing the Winchester's pained expression" like taking him to the medical bay."
"I think that responsibility falls on his team" replied Pyrrha.
"You...You bitch" Cardin was out of break still feeling the tremendous pain from the nut shot.
"Maybe you'll learn your lesson not to be a bully" said Miltia.
"Knowing you, I doubt you'll change your ways" followed Melanie.
(Scene change)
The twins knew there was going to be tension the minute they return to their dorm. As soon as their foot was set inside they were met by the sight of an angry team leader. However, Cardin kept his glare with the twin in white. This was perhaps the scariest glare the Winchester has ever shown and the first time he was showing it. Clearly he was still upset with what his partner did to him at the cafeteria.
Yet Melanie kept a stare and firm stance, she wasn't afraid of him. She didn't regretted doing what she did either. The teen had it coming for being a bully she doesn't approve of a leader and partner who was a push over with others. At the same time neither she or her sister supported faunus, they were against them either. They saw it wrong for a person to be bullying someone who hasn't done anything wrong to deserve such a treatment.
What came next didn't took either sister by surprise as Cardin slapped Melanie. Miltia gasped and she was ready to commit bloody murder on the leader but to her surprise, her sister stopped her. For someone who has gotten slapped the Malachite in white looked pretty calm. Russel was in the middle of the whole thing and he was ready to crap his pants.
First he has never seen the Winchester so angry and Miltia's glare was doing the same effect. To him the shit was going to go down and there was no one that could stop it. So he stood and watched twin sister in white in a glaring contest with the team leader. Miltia was waiting for the teen to slapped Melanie again so she can kick him in his jewels again. If it worked for her sister, why not her?
"You two are done here!" shouted the Winchester" I don't care what the rules say or what the headmaster say, you two are out of this team!"
"That's perfect because Miltia and I are sick of being part of this team. We have taken as much crap as we can from you! You're not worthy of being a leader or a partner. We'll be on our way to the headmaster maybe, he can sent us to a better team. One with teammates that don't act like immature jackasses."
"Finally something that we can agree" glared the tall teen" get out of here and don't forget to pack your things it sickens me seeing all that girly diva crap."
"That's your best comeback" Miltia wasn't impressed with his insult.
"We'll pack our things once we return from the headmaster's office. Let's go Miltia."
"Miltia...I'm sorry" mumbled Russel.
"Don't apologize this was going to happen eventually. I'm not surprised you took his side I'm disappointed in you" the twin in red left the dorm with her sister.
The mohawk teen lowered his head clearly he was hurt by her comment. Obviously his relation with the Malachite in red wasn't as bad as the one between Melanie and Cardin. At least they got along in some parts, though they didn't share many conversations. The little ones they had they were able to reach a level of understanding and get along.
Besides, Miltia wasn't as hot tempered as her sister in white. He thought long and hard and maybe this was a mistake of kicking them out of the team. There was no way the headmaster was going to approve of this and its not like they had the authority to do such things as remove members from their team.
"What are you looking at!?"
"I..Nothing Cardin…."
"I'm right you'll see. We don't need them we're better off without them."
The mohawk teen knew this was the result of his stubborn pride caused by his huge ego. Nothing he say to him will convince him to think otherwise of the twins. It was impossible for a team to continue with only two members, even he knew that. Most likely because of this they might get expel from Beacon and he didn't wanted that. He still had a dream to become a huntsman. Turning to his leader and friend the Winchester held a frown obviously thinking of the two female members of the team.
"We don't need them, I'm right" Cardin kept mumbling.
Russel chose to remain silent thinking this was wrong. Remembering the times team CMRM fought during the initiation and virtual combat exercise, they were great. Well except for the part when the leader used Melanie for a human shield against an Ursai major.
(Location: Headmaster's office)
Ozpin has always believed in potential. That anyone aspiring to become a huntsman or huntress is a candidate of possessing it. By putting them in teams of four that will contribute in unlocking that potential little by little. As a headmaster to one of the kingdoms most prestigious academies he has dealt with all kinds of teams. All from the best of the best to good, to moderate and even those who were difficult and mediocre.
But that was all right, it was all part of the experience. Some of this difficult team turned out to be very successful becoming skilled huntsmen and huntresses. As he stood on his desk with his mug of hot coffee listening to what it was to him as a" humble rant" coming from Melanie Malachite. She and her twin sister were not pleased with being part of team CMRM. Even if its being months since the initiation and team formations the twins haven't gotten used with getting along with their teammates Cardin and Russel.
Clearly they weren't pleased and they have asked to sent them to another team. The man adjusted his spectacles gazing at the twin sisters he had another one of those predicaments of teams with problems to get along. Luckily he had experience with this and he knew what to do. After all he has counseled and helped many students from teams before. This was another example of doing his job in helping those students with the potential. He could already see it as he laid eyes on the Malachite twins, he has seen what they can do and they were perfect to become quite the huntresses.
"I understand your point and it is a reasonable one. But I'm afraid I can't fulfill your request Miss Malachite. Once teams are formed there is nothing that can be done, its permanent. The team will last for the rest of the academic period which is four years. I should add that there aren't any first years with a vacant spot for two members on their team. All the first year teams have being properly made and as I said its permanent. I have no power or authority to undo such however, if you wish to leave my school then that is a different matter I can arrange. I can have your resignation forms deliver to my office immediately as proof that you two will be dropping out from Beacon" Ozpin smiled watching their features changed to one of concern.
"That is, if you truly wish to leave my school" of course he knew they weren't to go through with it.
"No we don't want that" replied Melanie while Miltia nodded" we came here to become huntresses, its a decision we made together."
"I'm glad to hear that. I know its tough to be on a team with people you can't get along with but you have to give it time. One doesn't become a good huntsman in a few months, or one doesn't become a good leader from one day to another. A team becomes good once they understand their flaws and get to understand each other. Once that has being made the teamwork improves and friendship grows stronger."
"Friendship with Cardin….? No way" the Malachite in white didn't believe it.
"So we can't leave the team?" asked Miltia worried" but Cardin kicked us out. He said he didn't wanted us back at the dorm."
"An empty threat nothing more. Mr. Winchester has absolutely no power to make such a demand, even if he's the leader. Of course you two are allow to return to your dorm at anytime. Please make sure to inform him of what I just said. If the problem persist and Mr. Winchester fails to understand then do not hesitate to come to my office as soon as possible. I will let Glynda handle the matter" he hide his grin that was enough to scare any student.
"Thank you headmaster" Melanie gave a bow.
"One more thing before you go" Ozpin took a quick sip from his bug" Miss Malachites, trust is something that it takes time to earn but it can easily be destroy under a short moments notice. I believe you know what I'm talking about, Amber told me what happened at the virtual combat exercise. People can realize their mistakes sooner or later. I can tell Mr. Winchester will realize his mistake for what he did to you, when? That will be the question."
"I'm not expecting he will ever apologize" frowned Melanie.
"Perhaps or perhaps not. Life is filled with uncertain paths and many of them can either lead you stray or lead you to your destination."
"Does he always have to be so cryptic?" the twin in white mentally sighed.
"Thank you for taking your time to listen to us headmaster Ozpin" said Miltia.
"It is what I'm here for. To help all my students in need."
(Location: Team CMRM dorm)
Cardin stood on his bed using his scroll playing some game to kill his bad mood. It was strange why he was feeling this way when he was won. He kicked the Malachite twins out of the team, so he should be feeling please with himself. Thinking about it was annoying him, why was he feeling this way? Was he actually feeling guilty for what he did to Melanie at Amber's class? Of course not, not after what she did to him at the cafeteria. She punched him in a sensitive spot that hurt like a bitch and embarrassed him in front of so many students.
That was something he could never forget. He ignored his thoughts and focused on his scroll game. Russel was on his bed trying to study for Professor's Oobleck's test but he was failing miserably. At the same time he was missing the twins, they were part of the team. He hasn't admitted but they were a strong tag team and they were needed whether his leader didn't wanted to admit or not. Now telling the Winchester he did wrong and he should apologize to Melanie.
"Cardin….?"
"What?" asked the upset teen.
"Its...Nothing" the mohawk teen went back to his studies.
"If you have something to say, say it! Don't be a scary wuss."
"I don't think you can't kick them out of the team" Russel gathered the courage.
"Who's the leader of this team?"
"You are."
"If I say they're out, they're out! I don't want to hear about them anymore."
Russel decided not to say another word the tall teen was already angry. He didn't wished to further anger him. There was a knock on the door that made Cardin groaned. The Winchester wasn't expecting any visitors today. In fact he wasn't expecting no one at all when he opened the door, his mood got worse. Honestly he was expecting the twins returning to pack their things and leave the dorm for good.
That wasn't the case, his visitor was none other than Jaune Arc. This was the last thing the Winchester needed now seeing his rival and the person he hated his guts. What the hell does he want? He was in no mood to see his face. This was living proof you can't get any peace and quiet even when you are in you're own dorm. This wasn't his day, if it wasn't Melanie it was him.
"What the hell do you want Jauney boy?"
"Nice to see you too" sweat dropped the Arc.
"Come to my dorm to remind me of my defeat over you?" the Winchester brought up their match during Goodwitch combat class.
"Why do you always have to think I have something against you? Seriously I only came to talk to you."
"Well? We're talking."
"Are you going to invite me in?"
"No you look better outside."
Jaune tried to control himself his attitude was really annoying" fine I don't mind being outside. The reason I want to talk to you is a way to end this whole "rivalry" you have with me."
"That might happen when I beat you in front of everyone and they all know that I'm better than you."
"So arrogant, dear Monty I was so pathetic to let myself be his bully victim. Even when he knows clearly he can't take me on" the blond knight pinched the bridge of his nose.
"That's the reason I came to talk to you. I have a better challenge for you to take and it doesn't involve us fighting each other."
Cardin blinked not knowing what he was talking about. He turned to Russel who seemed to be thinking the same thing" what are you talking about?"
"You want to prove to everyone in the school you're better than me right? How about we do it fairly? I'm challenging you Cardin to beat me as a team leader."
"A team leader challenge? You're still not making sense Jauney boy."
"Its just as I said. I don't consider myself the best leader but at least I know how to work well with my teammates and how to treat them right. Can you do the same?"
The Winchester finally realized what the blond was talking about. It wasn't a combat fight but a challenge to test his skills as a team leader. Honestly he thought the idea was stupid, what was the point of a challenge when there wasn't going to be any fighting? He didn't wanted that, he wanted to defeat the Arc in a match. To humiliate him in front of all the first years, the same way he did at Goodwitch class.
A leader challenge wasn't going to do, it wasn't enough to satisfy him. But this was Cardin Winchester where his arrogance and pride will get the better of him. Though there was no doubt or fear in Jaune's face it was still worth to try and mock him.
"What's wrong Jauney boy, afraid the next time we fight you wont be so lucky? Afraid you will lose to me?"
"Let's not bring that up. My challenge is more suitable because to me strength doesn't tell how good of a leader you are. But how well you can work with them. If you can make a better leader than me then I will admit you're better than me. What do you say?"
"How would I know I'm winning?'
"You'll know depending how much better you get with your team. I will challenge you to combat immediately. But I understand if you don't want to do this, you are fighting me and I'm pretty skilled and experienced too" Jaune gave a cocky grin his way of antagonizing the tall teen.
The leader of CMRM stood in thought with a glare maybe accepting the challenge wont be so bad after all. But then again, he could take advantage of accepting it. A grin formed on his lips knowing exactly what he wanted. The only thing he was asking for and this challenge was going to help him achieve it.
"Okay, I accept your challenge. On one condition" it was strange that he got serious all of the sudden" I want a rematch."
"A rematch….? Sure that's fine by me. But Cardin I mean it, you have to try to become a better leader for your team I'm not kidding. You have to set a fine example for them and for yourself. That means no bullying, no insulting and no mistreating your teammates. You can start right now by apologizing to Melanie."
"Why the hell should I do that!? She's the one who should apologize to me for what she did at the cafeteria."
"Well you did asked for it, Melanie kicked you in the groin because you were bullying Velvet. If you want her to apologize to you then you must apologize to her first for using her as shield at virtual combat class. You say sorry and she will say sorry back. That's how you start at being a better leader."
"Its not going to be that easy. I mean she's so angry with Cardin" Russel interjected.
"Can't blame her I know I would be pretty angry too if Cardin use me as shield taking an Ursai claw to the stomach."
Jaune smiled spotting familiar faces ahead" you can start apologizing to Melanie now."
Cardin looked at the Arc's direction and there stood the Malachite twins. His eyes fell on Melanie who frowned at him. It was strange, expecting one of her killer glares. That feeling started swirling in his stomach for some reason, was it really regret? But his anger was stronger the memory when she kicked him in his nut sack at the cafeteria was still fresh in his mind.
The Winchester looked back at the blond knight who nodded at him signaling to apologize to the twin in white. Jaune didn't stood long, he only gave one glance away at the twins before leaving. He knew the rest was up to the team leader and he hoped he would do the right thing.
"Please Cardin for once in your life think about the well being of your team and not of yourself."
"You guys are back…." spoke the tall teen.
"We just talked to the headmaster and he said you have no power to kick us out of the team" said Miltia.
"Like it or not we're here to stay" followed Melanie.
"See Cardin I told you-"
"Shut it" the Winchester scolded Russel" whatever do what you want."
The twins looked at each other looks like that was all they were going to get from him. Honestly they were expecting he was going to get upset and yell at them. But this change in his behavior was hard to believe. Looks like there was no need to tell him about Ozpin's warning. So Goodwitch wont have to interfere after all, that was good for the tall teen.
"You have no problem with us staying in the team?" asked the twin in white.
"You just said I have no power with kicking you guys out. Its not like I have a choice you two are part of this team. Get in."
Both teens entered the dorm while Cardin stood in deep thought. He gazed at Melanie and their eyes met briefly. He did accepted Jaune's challenge to be a better leader than him so he should do the right thing and for once try to get along with his team. Things started rough especially with his partner and honestly he could care less about the Arc's challenge.
The only thing that mattered to him is to have his rematch with the blond knight. For now he might play the part and try to make things right, as Jaune put it. After all, its not that he will mean to be nice and be "a good leader". An evil grin formed on his mind, that will be his little secret for now.
"Hey….?" the Winchester kept his gaze on his partner" look...About what happened at virtual class..I'm sorry" he mumbled the last part.
"What did you say?" Melanie frowned not liking his mumbling.
"I said I'm sorry" he cleared his throat.
"You know its pointless to apologize when you don't mean it. Don't waste your breath" scoffed the Malachite in white.
Her comment made Cardin glared at her" that bitch I shouldn't even bother apologizing to her in the first place."
"At least he tried to apologize. Even if he was lying" Miltia pointed out.
(Time skip: the next day)
(Location: Forever Fall Forest kingdom of Vale)
The students walked the forest covered in red trees in awed. They have never seen something beautiful. They walked with Professor Goodwitch taking the lead to the path ahead. For Jaune this was another experience of deja vu because he has already done this part before during the original time line. It wasn't a fond memory he wanted to remember. Back then, he was being blackmailed by Cardin to help him pull a mean prank on Pyrrha.
Using the red sap on her and unleashing a sworn of rapier wasp on her that would have lead the red head in critical condition. But of course he never pulled it off he went against the Winchester's authority and stood up to him. A smiled spread his lips when his aura activated protecting him from the punch of the tall teen. The events lead to team CRDL encountering a strong Ursai and the team hightailed it out of there leaving him with the Winchester. The Arc fought the Grimm and managed to defeat it slicing its head off making it his first Grimm kill.
But now, things were very different in this time line. He wasn't being blackmailed but he was currently facing Cardin in his challenge to be a better leader. Maybe with this idea the tall teen might learn a few things and change for the better. Though he wasn't going to lift his hopes up during his time the Winchester hasn't changed at all. The chances were high he might not change in this time either.
Best of all he wont try to pull that prank he tried on Pyrrha since the only person he had a grudge was him and he already fixed things with him. There was also Melanie but he doubted Cardin would try to do something to harm the twin in white. There was another thing the Arc was aware with his so called" challenge" to the CMRM leader. He already told the Malachite twins of his plan before facing the Winchester.
Melanie and Miltia stood listening to what Jaune had in mind with Cardin. After they left Ozpin's office the twins ran into the Arc before heading to their dorm. The blond knight decided to tell them everything so they knew what he plans to do with their leader. The reaction from each of the sisters was unexpected. Neither of them thought someone will get out of his way to help someone he wasn't fond off.
Let's face it they knew it, heck everyone knew because many people didn't like the Winchester. He has built a reputation for being a jerk, bully and a douche. Honestly the twins thought the blond was being too kind for his own good. Why bother helping someone who hated your guts? It just didn't made sense for them, neither of them would do something like that for someone they don't like.
"Are you for real?" Melanie was dumbfounded.
"I'm not kidding if that's what you're asking."
"Why would you do that? You do know how Cardin feels about you?" followed Miltia.
"Oh yeah believe me I know. I just think this is a solution to help him become a better leader and a person. I don't think you guys want to continue being part of a team with the way Cardin is now."
"That's for sure" the twin in red gave a nod.
"Definitely" the twin in white followed.
"I just wanted you guys to know before I "challenge him"."
"Will he accept?" asked the Malachite in white.
"I know he will because I know what kind of person is. Someone like Cardin is all about feeding his big fat ego. I challenge him at something that he will try hard to be better at me all for the purpose that he will have the lead and try to give a humiliating defeat in front of everyone. I'm aware he's jealous of me that only fuels his attempt to out best me."
"No kidding" Melanie agreed on the part of feeding his big fat ego, that was definitely the Winchester.
"Will this even work? You could be wasting your time" said Miltia.
"I agree with my sister. Your plan might be for nothing or it could back fire bad for you. Why bother anyway?"
"You could be right I might be wasting my time because its Cardin, but I think its worth the time. Don't you think people deserves a second chance?"
"But what if he doesn't want to change?" spoke the Malachite in white" what if he doesn't want to accept change?"
"Then I guess you guys will have to get used to him with the person he is" Jaune gave a silly smile what else to do if the Winchester doesn't change?
"That hasn't being easy" the Malachite in red shook her head.
"Just let me handle Cardin. If I know him he's not going to refuse my challenge."
"Jaune?" Melanie stood in thought" why are you doing this?"
"Truth is…." a smiled spread the knight's lips" you guys can be a great team if only your leader change. Besides I like helping my friends."
"We didn't saw you as a friend and yet you do" Miltia felt a bit bad" after what you and your blond friend did to Junior's club we never thought of seeing you one."
"Even today its hard for us to forgive you" added the twin in white.
"I like helping my friends that's true. I see the twins as my friends but mainly, I'm doing this to help team CMRM become stronger. We're going to need all the help we can get if we want to fight the source" the Arc hasn't forgotten the one pulling all the strings and he knew he couldn't do it on his own.
"Yes students the forest of Forever Fall is indeed beautiful" Goodwitch heard one of the students say it was such" but we're not here to sightseeing, Professor Peach has asked all of you to collect samples from the tress deep inside this forest and I'm here to make sure none of you die while doing so. Each of you is to gather one jar worth's of red sap. However, this forest if filled of the creatures of Grimm, so be sure to be by your teammates. We'll be back here at four o' clock, have fun."
Jaune watched Cardin and his team took a different turn going deeper into the forest. There was nothing to worry about, there wont be a red sap prank and there wont be no rapier wasp. So he decided to focus in gathering red sap with his team, he stood by his teammates side. Team JPRY went to the near by tress, each with their own jar ready for some red sap hunting. He rolled his eyes at Ruby who was first successful in the gathering and she tried to take a sniff of it.
But the Arc warned her not to drink it. Yang and Pyrrha were already filling their own jars. Unfortunately he felt sorry for team WNRB. The Arc tried not to laugh at Nora who was silently taking the jars which were already filled and drank the red sap like it was the most delicious drink the Valkyrie has ever tasted. There was a reason why he didn't wanted Ruby to drink it beacause according to Peach's class, red sap is extremely sweet and that wasn't healthy for anyone. Except Nora maybe.
Weiss was careful to place the jar in the opening of the tree. Getting red sap on her dress was the last thing she wanted. It was her favorite and quite expensive and she wasn't going to risk getting it dirty that it will be ruined. It wasn't that hard to fill it up, the red sap was all over inside of the tree. Taking a glance at her teammates, Ren and Blake were done with their jars and they have place them in the containment unit.
When she was done and went to the unit her aqua eyes widened. The red sap was gone as it vanished out of thin air. The Schnee heiress didn't realized her jar was empty too. That's when saw her partner was the culprit her lips filled with red sap. Obviously she found out her jar was empty and frowned at the girl.
"NORA!"
Ren and Blake saw their leader has tied up the Valkyrie with some vines she quickly spotted. She made sure they tight enough to prevent the orange haired girl from escaping. Now usually Ren would say something but he was aware of his childhood friend's sweet tooth he chose to remain quiet.
"Shouldn't you try to stop her?" asked the raven haired girl.
"Its better this way, we might never finish with Nora drinking it all."
"Ren you traitor how could you!?" cried the tied up girl.
"Please Ren look after her until we're done" said the heiress.
"Weissy why!? I thought we were BFF!"
"That was before finding out you're a red sap leech. You shouldn't be drinking that stuff its too sweet and unhealthy."
"Phoeey!"
"Nora how about when we return to Beacon I'll make you pancakes with red sap as syrup?"
The Valyrie's eyes have lit up to the size of saucers. Pancakes and red sap her two favorite things in the whole world" yes I want it!"
"He knows what to say to her" Weiss went close to Blake for whispering range" I don't care what she says, there is something going on with her and Ren."
"They're together together" replied the cat faunus.
"Yes."
After team CMRM separated from the other teams, Cardin and Russel left the twins on their own. The Winchester didn't went that far as he stood on a small hill. His blue eyes were on a certain Malachite in white. Becoming a good person, a good leader? Yeah right he wasn't going to believe into all of that crap. He played his part well but now he will make it clear he wasn't into Jaune's silly leader challenge. The tall teen will eventually challenge him to a fight and this time, he will win.
There was no way he will plan to apologize to his partner it was impossible to say sorry to the same person who humiliated him at the cafeteria. His gritted his teeth remembering the painful blow on his groin at the hands of Melanie. For that he hated her and that's why it was time he gets even with her. He already figured out the perfect place for revenge and now it was the time to unleash it. The Winchester was staring at the girl in white filling her jar with the red sap as Miltia arrived shortly with her jar filled.
The strange thing about this even if he was looking forward to get even with Melanie there was still part of him that was feeling some sort of guilt. The team leader growled why!? Why was that guilt even there!? Still feeling guilty for putting her in front of him to take the Grimm attack that was meant for him. Maybe that was it, the Ursai's claw was supposed to hit him. He prevented it with Melanie as the shield, he just thought about his safety first. Its not that he intentionally wanted the Malachite in white to get hurt for him.
Cardin couldn't get his eyes off her, the girl seemed to be annoyed probably because he and Russel were absent and they were left with doing all the work. A grin spread his features, pretty soon she wont have to worried about those things considering what he had in store for her. Just in the nick of time Russel arrived holding a box that was moving rapidly like there was something inside. The Winchester took a jar filled with red sap, it was time to put his plan in motion.
"You finally got them" he grinned.
"Why do you need Rapier wasp for Cardin?" asked the mohawk teen.
"You're about to find out. That written assignment we did tell us that these little critters love sweet things, hence the red sap" his eyes fell on Melanie" somebody is about get hit with the sap and she's going to end up being chased by a sworn of hungry rapier wasp."
"Who?" but Russel didn't needed to ask knowing exactly who was going to be the victim" you're planning on doing that to her?"
"Damn right, that bitch is going to pay for punching me. My balls are still feeling sore from that punch. It hurt a lot and its not just that blow but she literally humiliated me in front of so many people" the Winchester grinned evilly" well, now the time has come for her to get hurt and humiliated. Revenge is really going to be sweet."
"But Cardin…."
"But what!? She deserves this I'm not letting this go. Nobody does something like that to me and doesn't walk out unharmed. Its time to get even you know what they say, an eye for an eye, tooth for a tooth."
"Look I…." the mohawk teen hesitated getting nervous at the way the tall teen was looking at him" you remember how angry she got with you when you made her get hit by that Ursai at virtual combat class. If you do this...She will get so angry at you that she might never forgive you."
"What do I care? I could care less if she doesn't forgives me" Cardin glared that guilty feeling was worsening" she must pay."
"I don't care about Arc's challenge. You don't have to change on what kind of leader you have to be I don't care about any of that. But I do care about this team, the two of us don't compose of it. Its the four of us you, me, Miltia and Melanie. Together we're team CMRM. But if you go through with this, I know both of them will never forgive you and that will be the end of this team. We can't graduate from Beacon without a team. Doing this will destroy the future of CMRM."
Cardin was shocked beyond words he couldn't even say a one. Since when has Russel sounded so logical, so wise? No that can't be wisdom and Russel Thrush have never mix it was wrong. But his words were honest and it was true. Every point he has pointed out was right. The team wasn't the two of them it was composed of four members, that included the Malachite twins.
They couldn't graduate without a team and pulling this off will pissed them off so much they will never speak to him again or forgive him for the matter. Was doing this really worth? The Winchester couldn't believe it but he was starting to question if this was right. He should beat Russel up for filling his head with these thoughts. In fact that was exactly what he was going to do, he smacked the back of the head of the mohawk teen.
"What was that for?"
"Its your fault" Cardin got up not seeing a point of doing this" come on let's get out of here, I'm done with this crap."
Russel couldn't believe what he just heard. He wasn't going to do it, he has backed down from pulling this mean and cruel prank. To think he managed to convinced him when he thought it was impossible. Then it means he was glad to get smacked instead of getting a beat down by the Winchester. A smiled spread his lips that was one problem out of the way. Honestly he didn't wanted to be on the twins bad side, or any team trouble.
"What are we going to do with the rapier wasps?"
"We'll just leave them somewhere around."
A loud growl stopped both teens as their eyes widened in horror. In front of them an Ursai major bigger than the average type arrived before them. Cardin froze at the sheer size of the creature as he got pinned to the ground by the beast. Russel was too scared to do anything he couldn't even think. His cowardly side shown getting stronger staring at the Grimm.
"Damn it!" the leader growled his mace fell off him, he was having trouble reaching his weapon.
"Cardin!"
"What are you waiting for butt head!? Help me!"
"That's…." the mohawk was scared staring at the creature" that's a big Ursai!" he ran for his life.
"Thanks a lot Russel" growled the Winchester trying to remove the Grimm from him" get the hell off me!"
The team leader was in trouble all right. The Ursai major was too heavy and strong so it was impossible to move it away from him. His weapon was too far away to reach it, so forget about attacking it or fighting it. Not to mention a certain mohawk teen left him which serve as a reminded to give him a beating the next time he sees him. That is if there ever was going to be a next time.
Was he going to die here? Cardin glared at the Ursai trying to punch him but its paws were too strong. Suddenly someone arrived delivering a flying kick to the face of the creature. The Grimm was sent to the ground releasing the Winchester. The tall teen was surprised to see Melanie facing the beast.
"Can't beat one Ursai major? And you're supposed to be our leader" it shocked Cardin her tone wasn't filled with mock but it had that slight teasing nature.
The Malachite in white didn't waited for him to reply or to retort in anger. She used her semblance causing a small tremor kicking the ground. The Ursai was staggered giving an opening for the twin. She performed a somersault using red dust causing a fire wave that burn the creature. The Grimm was still alive but its head was crushed by Cardin who swung his mace along with his semblance. As the beast vanished turning to ashes both teens were staring at each other, their eyes met. They were like that for a minute as Miltia arrived with Russel, looks like they were a little late to help.
"You okay?"
"I am now" he followed with smacking Russel again.
"Ow! Now what was that for?"
"That's for leaving me."
"I did it to get help!" cried the mohawk teen.
"He's right. We heard the growl of the Ursai but Russel told us you were in trouble" said Miltia.
"How convenient" the Winchester still didn't believe him.
"Give him some credit" said Melanie.
"Look" Cardin took a breath facing the girl in white" I'm sorry about virtual combat class, I wasn't thinking. It would have been better to use my aura to block the Grimm's attack but I chose wrong using you to take it…."
Melanie stood serious for a moment" at least this time you mean it. Might as well get it over with. I'm sorry for punching you down there, does it still hurt?"
"No but I still feel sore."
"Hope you learn your lesson not to make Melanie angry" said her sister in red.
"More like not to act like a bully. Try to behave and don't cause any trouble, especially with faunus."
"I have my reasons for not liking them…." Cardin stood in thought" just don't make me to change my opinion on them."
"I guess that will be a start" said the Malachite in white.
"What's this?" Miltia picked the box that was briefly moving and a loud buzzing sound coming from inside" what's in it?"
"Rapier wasp" replied Russel.
"What?" Melanie glared at Cardin having a bad feeling from him" what were you planning to do with those?"
"Well you see….That's none of your business" he glared at her.
"He was planning to pull a prank on Arc" said the mohawk teen.
"He will never learn" the twin in red shook her head.
"If it involves rapier wasp, then this prank will be blown out of proportions" Melanie kept her glare on the Winchester.
"I changed my mind I'm not doing anything."
"Why do I find it hard to believe?" she crossed her arms.
"Get off my case already I'm not doing it. You have to learn to trust me."
"So far everything I've seen about you makes it very hard for me trust you."
"The same goes for me" followed Miltia.
"Thanks for the safe man" Cardin whispered to Russel for telling the twins the prank was meant for Jaune.
The team saw team JPRY running to them looking worried.
"What happened? We heard a growl that belongs to a Grimm" Jaune was indeed worried thinking the Ursai attack took place just like in his time line.
"Ursai major but we already took care of it" replied Melanie.
"Yeah Jauney boy no need to try and show off. My team had it covered and you better watch out. Because I'm going to beat you at being the best leader Beacon has ever seen."
"He has a LONG way to go" said the twin in white.
"Way longer" followed Miltia.
As they left Jaune's team were staring at him as if they missed something.
"Beat you at leader, what was that about?" asked Yang.
"Just a friendly challenge I made to him" smiled the knight.
"He will never beat you Jaune you're the best leader ever" said Ruby.
"Its strange" Pyrrha gazed at the retreating team" I don't know about you, but doesn't Cardin sounds different to you?"
"He sounds like a jerk to me, he always is one" the blond brawler shrugged her shoulders.
"I think he sounded different from his usual self."
"Maybe he will change" said Jaune.
"Cardin change? Suuureee" Yang laughed at the possibility.
"I wouldn't be too sure about that. There has being a lot of events that have changed or being altered. All because I have altered the time line, who knows. Maybe Cardin might become a good leader and get along with everyone...Just maybe."
To be continued
(Omake)
Huntsmen and huntresses will eventually take on tough and difficult missions. Many of them resulting in exterminating Grimm, others protect cities from their threat. But today, for Cardin Winchester and Russel Thrush they have gotten an even harder mission that any other. One location that has brought them despair, annoyance and that they have to eventually hate with a passion.
A mission to the Vale shopping mall. Currently both teens were holding a load of bags and boxes due that the Malachite twins were doing some shopping. The twins thought as their teammates it was mandatory that they accompany them on their shopping spree. However for the males they were mentally cursing and roughing this day declaring it as the worst day of their lives.
"Come on, we still have five more department stores to go" Miltia gave a grin looking at the boys behind her.
"I also want to go to the new department store they opened last week" said Melanie.
"This is crazy" muttered Russel.
"This is your fault. I knew I should have gone with that prank" Cardin glared at the girls" the hell is this!? How much lien do you guys have!?"
"Enough" replied the twin in red.
"We saved quite the amount when we were working at Junior's club" said the Malachite in white.
"You got to be kidding me, this is pure madness" the Winchester was growing tired from carrying so much stuff.
"Cardin I don't know how long I'll be able to hold on" sighed the mohawk teen having a hard time to carry so many things.
"Suck it in butt head! Again this is your fault for wanting me to act like a goody goody."
"You want to start earning my trust? This is a good start" Melanie smiled at her partner.
"We're not doing this again" the leader as ready to curse out loud" I'd rather have my nuts punch ten times before returning to this hellish place."
"I hate the mall so much" said Russel with comical tears.
"I hate it even more. We're probably the only dumb asses in Beacon who are going through this crap."
(In another part of the mall)
"Why me?" sighed Jaune.
Apparently the same day the Malachite twins decided to go shopping. The Arc's team decided to buy a couple of things. The blond knight was carrying so many boxes, among them were dust rounds and weapon parts courtesy of a certain silver eyed reaper. Clothes from a certain blond brawler and more dust rounds courtesy of a certain red head champion.
Sadly he wasn't the only one.
Next to Jaune stood Ren holding a stack of boxes and bags. Ironically the same day team JPRY decided to go shopping team WRNB wanted to shop too. It was worst for the poor magenta eyed team since Weiss was buying for everything and she had A LOT of lien coming from a wealthy family like the Schnee family.
"Its hard having three girls on your team" said the Arc.
"Especially when they all like going shopping" added Ren.
"This is worst than any mission I have ever done. You know I'd rather go to the Dead Lands again and fight the Wyvern Lord than THIS any day."
"As the only males in the team, we have to be strong and endure the pain" the magenta eyed teen gave a sigh.
"Ren let's just say it."
"Yes."
"We hate the mall!"
-The only thing I can say about Cardin. Well let's just say he's not going to stay a douche for too long.
-Lol I had to do another omake. Again this one has being on my mind before I started writing the chapter.
-I would like to thank The Gunmaster for suggesting me on semblance to members of team CMRM. So far I revealed Cardin's semblance the ability to increase the strength of his attacks that's why one hit from his mace can be quite deadly. The attack will be strong depending how much of his aura he uses. Melanie's semblance to cause tremors with her kicks and depending how much aura she uses she can cause strong earthquakes. I will get to Russel and Miltia's semblance later in the story.
-Things are going to get interesting in the coming chapters. The events at the docks is going to be different and there's going to be a lot of action and you can bet the White Fang and the Shadow Fang will be involve. Plus old characters will return, a surprise will be reveal and SPOILER ALERT somebody is going to DIE. That's it wont say who. Also a new summon will be reveal soon.
-Saw the trailer of volume 4 yeah Ruby has new clothes, new appearance, an upgraded Crescent Rose and looks more bad ass than ever. I really hope RoosterTeeth finally gives Jaune some spot light to show he has grown strong. Because if they choose to keep him as the weakling underdog for comic relief I'm going to be VERY upset. Also if Pyrrha is really gone then sadly Arkos has being sunk but don't worry. The trailer shows a time skip since the Vale invasion and that means Ruby has being with the reaming members of JNPR during that time skip. Meaning she has spent a lot of time with Jaune (ArcRose is coming I really hope so). So yep volume 4 will premiere October 22nd that's still a few months ahead. Time to play the waiting game.
-Don't forget to keep sending me your suggestions for Jaune's summons.
-As always thank you very much for the favs, follows and reviews I really appreciate it.
Next time: Shadows part 1