Disclaimer: I don't own RWBY they are the rightful property of RoosterTeeth.
Italics are thoughts
'
Bold and Italics are flashbacks
**Communications through scrolls and other devices.
Italics and underline are summons talking
Chapter 25 Enemy
Fire that's all he saw. It was being accompanied by destruction along with the screams of thousands of people. Buildings were in shambles, he knew of this place. Jaune was so shocked of course he would recognized this city. It was Vale and it was currently under attack. Along with the panicking people he was able to see the creatures of Grimm running amok. They were all hunting them like a predator hunting it's prey.
It wasn't those dark creatures but he spotted members of the White Fang, attacking and murdering innocent people. No, the blond knight couldn't take it anymore. He was panicking, it was happening. This was the aftermath of the Vytal Festival. This was the setting where it all started for him. When he made that wish that sent him back to the past. How can this be happening. Jaune ran the streets, there wasn't any sign of huntsmen or huntresses. He wasn't successful, at least not yet.
Jaune couldn't believe it, the day has finally come. This was the day Beacon would fall, the day the Grimm crossed the border into a full scale attack. He tried so hard to prevent this day from happening, he has failed. The blond was getting desperate for no signs of life or any of his friends. The fire and the destruction was everywhere. They have lost against Cinder, her plan being fulfilled once again.
Eyes widened at the realization, if it was too late to do anything, it could only mean that Pyrrha was already. The Arc erased the thought that she, Ruby or Yang could be, they must be around here somewhere still fighting. They were strong, they wouldn't lose so easily. Maybe they were aiding the Atlas military to fend off the dark creatures from attacking any innocent civilians. He refused to cry, there was still hope, deeply in his heart he thought everything will still be all right.
What the knight saw ahead had his gasped in horror. Bodies, thousands and probably millions of dead bodies lie before him. He fell on his knees from the shock, it was worse than he thought. Dear Monty did he failed so bad to prevent all of this from happening. It looked even worse from when he first experienced it in the original time line. Any hopes he had were gone, vanishing into the air.
An anger cried pierced the skies as Jaune got up running only to see more death and destruction. What was point of making that damn wish if everything will happened again. There was no need to go back to the past if the same future was bound to take place. Even with all the training he did, it was all for nothing. His hardships were all for naught and now he was paying the prize for his failure. If things could get any worse, he really doubt it. This was too much to bear for the knight.
But they did, fate was so cruel. What Jaune was staring now had him on his knees, his skin turned pale, his eyes wide like he was experiencing a real live nightmare. Before the Arc stood the three bodies of his teammates. Ruby, Pyrrha and Yang were all pinned to wooden crosses, they've been crucified. Their expressions were one of pain and agony, but it was too late. They were dead and all the blond could was cried while screaming at the top of his lungs.
Footsteps caught his attention, someone was near by. Turning around, his expression changed to one of pure hatred. There, stood Cinder with a grin on her face. The amber eyed woman was truly enjoying the destructive sight. As if she was mocking him that he couldn't stopped her. It was her victory and his loss there was nothing left to live for anymore. The Arc grabbed Crocea Mors and his shield, fight was his only resolve. Stop her now, at all cost he has nothing to lose.
He charged at her but the woman only needed to lift her right hand to stopped him. Jaune gasped as his hands and feet were tied up by fire shackles. With another motion from her hand, he was brought to his knees. Cinder slowly walked to him, keeping that infuriating grin that he hated. But for her, it symbolized her victory over Vale and Beacon. She made her weapon appeared in bow mode having the blond at her mercy just the way she wants it.
"Do you really think you could change the outcome?"
"….."
"This is meant to happen, and you can't stop it" she made an arrow appeared on the bow.
"I'm sorry everyone…." it was all Jaune could say in despair" I tried...I really did, but it wasn't enough to save all of you…."
"Farewell fallen knight."
Cinder fired the arrow at his heart killing the Arc instantly and, everything went black.
Jaune rose from his bed with his face covered in sweat. He took a few deep breaths before he realized it was all but a bad dream, a very bad dream. The blond was back at his dorm in the bunk bed with above him was his partner Ruby, still sleeping obviously. On the other side stood Pyrrha sleeping and above her, her partner Yang. The Arc gave a sigh of pure relief being back here. The dream felt so real and it would become a reality if he doesn't stop Cinder from fulfilling her plan.
But at least things were on his side for the moment. The amber eyed woman was currently in hiding due that she has her face in a wanted poster along with Emerald Sustrail. Also Amber was safe she didn't got part of her maiden powers absorb by the amber eyed woman. Meaning Cinder wasn't as powerful as she currently was in the original time line. Looking at his bed, he won't be getting any more sleep. Reaching for his scroll he checked the time, it was five in the morning.
Jaune was okay with the time, he could take advantage and do some training before starting the day. Carefully without waking any of his teammates he picked up his usual attire and a towel to take a shower. Minutes later he emerged from the bathroom dressed and left the dorm before, glancing at the three girls. Once the door was closed he had no idea they were awake, each had their looks of concern. Ruby and Yang wanted to checked on their leader but Pyrrha stopped them. The blond needed some time off for now.
After some intense training sharping his own skill as well as improving his teamwork with his summons. Jaune decided to take a break getting a bottle of water from one of the vending machines. Taking a shower after the training was the usual thing to do but the Arc didn't felt like it, not yet. The blond didn't even felt like returning to the dorm. He took a walk around the school and it was a miracle Goodwitch didn't catch considering, it was still too early to be awake or walking around the hallways.
His walk lead him to the courtyard the sun hasn't risen yet, no surprise. The blond leader needed some time for himself after the nightmare he had. Taking a sip from his water, Jaune remained in deep thought. Those images of that dream came back to haunt him. The fire, the destruction, the many deaths, the armies of Grimm rampaging and the cruel death of his teammates. It all lead to his own death at the hands of the amber eyed woman. Will he be able to make a difference, will he be able to prevent it all from happening.
What's worse he still hasn't said a word of the truth to his own team. And he wasn't planning to tell them at least, not yet anyway. But that was the least of his problems, stopping that evil woman has always being his top priority since he got back to the past. His summons were all with him, the many times he have reunited with them in his mind scape they were all willing to help him stop the amber eyed woman. With their assistance he will make the difference, he will change that tragic event no matter what.
"Out for an early stroll through the school?"
Jaune has gasped jumping at least four feet as he turned behind him to see Ozpin. The headmaster was holding his usual mug with hot cocoa or coffee. The hot beverage depended on his mood or the situation. The blond got up annoyed, it wasn't the first time the man would sneaked up from him from behind. Sometimes he wondered that he was the real ninja instead of Blake.
"Would you stop doing that?! I might end up dead from a heart attack before I get a chance to fight Cinder."
"Apologies Mr. Arc it has become a rather" force of habit". But why so early outside of the school? Glynda saw you leaving and she was planning to give you a week of detention, if I hadn't stopped her."
"I guess I do own you" he smiled in relief a week in detention with the woman wasn't nice.
"It's still troubling you. The burden that was given to you, why else would you be out so early away from your dorm?"
"I only went to get some early training and then decided to come here to...Think, I guess."
"Think about your mission. Mr. Arc you're still young to be shouldering everything on your shoulders."
"If I don't then what would be the point of that wish becoming true? Why was I given this chance to return to the past? If it not to change it for the better."
"We already had this conversation. The future has already changed, the time line you have created it's completely different from the one you used to be in. With it, it is uncertain what events will unfold in the future."
"Will the attack at Beacon still happen?" that was the question he kept asking himself day after day.
"Though it's a different time line, any of your actions up to this point will not change the incoming future. The attack in Beacon will happen. Maybe even worse than from your time line or completely different in your favors. Point is Mr. Arc, the future is still dark to see. We won't know what await us until the day comes."
"Then I have to continue training and get stronger until that day. I will not let Cinder have her way."
"Why don't you try to forget about those future events and focus right now instead? Everyone deserves a little R and R every once in a while."
"With the Vital Festival around the corner, it's hard to relax. The events I told you about before the festival will start commencing today. The cafeteria incident should be this morning."
"The food fight, yes you did told me about it. Quite amusing" Ozpin took a sip from his mug" Mr. Arc, are you planning to tell your teammates about your dilemma?"
"No, I haven't yet. I thought we came to an agreement that they should know until the right time."
"And when will that right time be if I may ask? When Beacon gets attacked?"
"Not by then I...I don't know. I'm still thinking about it and it worries me how they will react. They might think I'm crazy."
"I won't rush you since this is a very delicate matter. But do not take too long. The trust between teammates can be easily broken. And they might begin to suspect seeing various signs, like your odd behavior."
"Odd behavior? I haven't been acting all weird. I'm acting like my usual self" Jaune argued he's being the same at least, that's what he believes.
"Let me remind you. Miss Rose, Miss Nikos and Miss Xiao Long aren't dumb. Sooner or later they will start to see right through you. The longer your keep this secret from them, the harder it will be to rebuild that trust you have forged with them."
"When should I tell them? What right time do you think I should tell them?"
"I believe the only one who can answer that question is you, Mr. Arc."
"Figures" like he didn't saw that coming.
"You should head back to your dorm. Breakfast will be serve soon."
Jaune did as told and returned to the dorm hallways. By then, the sun has started to rise and he was in deep thought about Ozpin's words. It's not that he like keeping secrets from his team but this was one secret, too big, too shocking and too crazy to believe. The headmaster was right about his teammates not being dumb, he knew it. Ruby was clever when she wanted to and she can be very observant sometimes. Pyrrha was clever and observant, and pretty much clever.
Yang might be a blond but she was anything but dumb or an air head. She can be smart when it came down to it and she can also be observant. He couldn't kept this secret from them forever, he will have to tell them. But when, things were too complicated as they were. The Vital Festival was near and that's when the invasion will happen. Another thing that had the Arc in thought is coming events.
This week new students will be arriving from the other schools. They will be participating in the Vital Festival tournament. Cinder and Emerald will come as transfer students from Haven. However, that will no long happened since both women were on the wanted list. It made the blond knight thinking what's going to happen. Will the amber eyed woman had other plans in mind, will she send other people in her place, it was too confusing to think about it.
It was as Ozpin told him he needed to stopped focusing on future events and focus on the present. This whole time travel thing really has him stressed out. It was impossible to relax when so much was at stake. Jaune could hear his summons talking in his head telling him to stop over worrying himself. While Red Eyes whined that he was acting like a pussy for over thinking things. It was the dragon's way of showing he was worried for his master.
The Arc returned to his dorm. By now his team, were probably up. At least he knew Ruby would be awake she was a bouncing ball of energy. But not in the same extreme level as Nora. As Jaune opened the door they were already awake as he thought. The three girls have already changed into their school uniforms. He blinked, that was sure quick. Almost as if they have being up for a while, but that couldn't be. Looking at their faces, he was able to tell something was wrong.
Their eyes said a lot maybe, because he has knew them so well. They were worried. The blond stood shocked there's no way they knew he left way earlier. Were they awake when he got up. That would explained their expressions. So the leader thought ahead it was his job to always be there for them and help them at any costs. Lying was out of the questions because they'll be able to know. The three girls could read him like an open book.
"Before you guys ask. Yes, I went out early for some training. Then I went to a stroll and had a talk with Professor Ozpin. Nothing else happened."
"We understand Jaune" Ruby didn't sounded convinced but she kept a smile.
"I like to keep myself on shape all the time. But I wouldn't go so far to get up so early, no thanks" replied Yang although she did seemed to believed her fellow blond.
"Pyrrha?" the Arc turned to the red head girl who stood silent" everything okay?"
"I don't think it's okay. Was it necessary to go so early without letting us know."
"You guys were sleeping" he sweat dropped.
"I wasn't" said the red cloak girl" well I was, until you woke me up."
"I was fast asleep" followed the brawler.
"Sorry my bad. I promise it won't happen again."
"You mean sneaked out so early in the morning?" pressed on the red head.
"What is wrong with getting some training done? We're in a school that are teaching us to become huntsmen and huntresses. Is there actually anything wrong with me wanting to train on my own?" he was starting to get irritated with Pyrrha's attitude.
"No Jaune, I don't see nothing wrong with you wanting to train...Alone" her tone sounded said at the last part" but there is something wrong with you wanting to train at five in the morning. It wouldn't hurt if you let us know before hand of your future plans. We are a team after all, right? Ruby, Yang do you agree with me?"
"Sure. I don't mind if we get some training together. If it improves our teamwork" said the silver eyed petite.
"I don't mind either. Just, not so damn early. You can count me out on that one" followed the brawler.
It was at that moment the Arc realized his mistake. Sure, he wanted some training on his own because he needed to prepare himself. He also needed to improve his teamwork with his summons but, what about his team. His teammates needed training too, their teamwork needed improvement too and here he was thinking about himself. Why was he being selfish, oh that's right, he forgot he knew the future of this school and it wasn't pretty.
He saw Pyrrha getting killed by that amber eyed evil bitch, no pressure. The fate of Beacon was in his hands, that's why he needed to become strong enough to stop it. If they only knew. The blond leader rubbed his forehead, still Pyrrha, had a point. It wasn't right to wake up so early in the morning without telling his team. He should have at least left them a note or a text in their scrolls. Looking at Pyrrha, Ruby and Yang, they did looked worried.
"Okay I'm sorry. I'm not supposed to leave on my own without saying a word to you guys. We're a team and as leader I should be more aware of my actions. The next time we'll go together and train, how's that?"
"That will be great" Pyrrha smiled" nothing will make me happier than to see our teamwork improving further more."
"Right! We can't forget the Vital Festival is almost here. And we're competing in the tournament!" Ruby was hyped.
"Oh yeah, we're competing, and we're winning" Yang grinned clashing her fists.
"All the more reason why we have to train together. Don't you think Jaune?" the added the red head champion.
"How can I forget?" Jaune smiled while on the inside he was feeling dread" I will never forget."
"We're training and we're going to become the best team in Beacon. We're dominating that tournament" smiled the Arc.
"Damn right we are!" now the brawler was even more hyped.
"I'm hungry" Ruby smiled hearing her tummy roar.
"Time to get breakfast" followed the red head.
"I think Weiss's team went ahead already" said the blond brawler.
"You guys go on ahead. I have to take a shower and change."
"Well, I don't mind sticking around" Yang grinned while winking at her leader.
Her comment made Pyrrha and Ruby to dragged the girl out of the dorm.
"Hey come on I was only kidding! It's not like I was really going to stay and take a peek...Mayyyybe…."
Jaune only shook his head in amusement with a smile, he went to the bathroom.
Lunch finally arrived at the school. The team stood seated at the cafeteria. It wasn't any different from the original time line. Well different. Because Jaune was seated with his team with his partner Ruby next to him, Pyrrha next to her and Yang next to her. In the other table next to their stood Weiss's team. It was the usual with them. The Schnee leader was polishing her nails, Blake was reading a book and Ren was watching over Nora. The Valkyrie was throwing white grapes to Yang with a spoon. Same thing that in the original time line. The blond brawler was doing a pretty good job. The sight made the Arc smiled. It also made him missed the original version when he stood on the other table. Suddenly Ruby was gone. It's not like she vanished, she has ran off from the table. Jaune had no idea where she go. He tried asking Pyrrha and Yang but they didn't seemed to noticed the red cloak petite leaving.
Then he remembered Ruby came to her team's table with a big book. Maybe it was a photo album. He wasn't so sure when that time he didn't took a good look. She said something about" starting the semester with a bang". Then Yang made a lame pun after. So there was nothing to worry about. If this time line was tied to the original one, then she should be fine. And on time, the petite arrived throwing the big book on the table. It was original titled" Vytal Festival Activities property of Jaune Arc". But it was all marked in red. The blond leader sweat dropped. He remembered busting his butt writing the training program for his team. And just like that his partner decides to write it off and named it" Best Day Activities". But he couldn't be made at her, so he only smiled at the girl. It was so Ruby, to do something like that. It was cute.
Ruby cleared her throat before speaking" sisters! Friends! Partner! Four score and seven minutes ago, I had a dream."
"This oughta be good" Yang smiled before catching another white grape.
"A dream that one day, the four of us would come together, as a team, and have the most fun anyone has ever had, ever!"
"And I'm guessing that book that it rightfully belongs to me. Will be used for our best day activities?" Jaune smirked.
"Uh...We're partners, partner buddies and we're suppose to share. I thought you wouldn't mind if I take the book" the silver eyed girl gave him a cute expression.
"That book is the training program I designed to prepare us for the Vytal Festival. You're not forgetting we're competing in the tournament?"
"Of course not!" she quickly replied.
"Yeah. We're going to kick some major butt. We already have it won" said Yang.
"Even if we have Pyrrha with us. We still need to train. All teams no matter how good they are, needs to practice and get ready. The competition is going to be fierce. I want all of us to be prepare for it."
"We'll be ready" smiled Ruby.
"I agree we should practice our teamwork for the tournament" spoke Pyrrha" but I don't mind if we spend some time together as a team. Having fun will help our teamwork to get stronger. It's not just by training."
"Fine. Take their side" the Arc sighed while the sisters giggled.
"Yeah! Now we can kick off the semester with a bang!" said the red cloak girl.
"Here it comes" Jaune rolled his eyes at the incoming pun.
"I always kick my semesters off with a Yang! Ehh! Guys? Am I right?"
In response Nora threw her an apple" boo!"
"Thank you Nora" the blond leader smiled, if she hasn't done that, it would have been him.
"Look guys, it's been a two good weeks, and between more exchange students arriving and the tournament at the end of the year our second semester is going to be great! But classes start back up tomorrow. Which is why I've taken the time to schedule a series of wonderful events for us today!" oh yeah, Ruby was sure hyped.
"Doesn't the Christmas party at my home count as one of those activities" Jaune smirked he couldn't helped it, he had to bring it.
Yang only felt embarrassed hearing that. Her whole face turned red. She hasn't forgotten getting drunk and who knows what other stuff she did. But she knew one thing. Her father was so mad at her. It took him a full week to get over his anger. It was a real shame she didn't know she has kissed the Arc. And it was mean that the blond hasn't told her anything. Pyrrha shook her head remembering how the blond brawler acted. It was the same with her little sister. Both decided to forget that ever took place. But the brawler erased the thought, grabbing the apple Nora threw her for her lame pun and throw it back. But it missed it's mark as the Valkyrie laughed in return.
"Anyway!" Ruby went back on topic" we already know what we think of the best day activities. But we don't know how out dear leader feels."
Jaune rolled his eyes while his partner was giving him the sad puppy eyes. Oh boy, he won't fall for it no matter how cute she looks. Maybe this is what they need. It's true that they've been training hard for the tournament. But he hasn't forgotten about that woman and her evil plans. If he remembers the past time line. Today she, Emerald and Mercury will be arriving as exchange students from Haven Academy. That was nothing but a big lie. He already told Ozpin to call the headmaster of said school to confirm the information on those students was legit. That is unless, the headmaster was working for Salem. The Arc couldn't get a break, not today. But he wanted to be nice for his team. They deserved it.
"Okay...Okay...I'll play along, for the moment. I'm sure you must have worked hard to make this day the best day ever. So, yeah. I'm in."
"Yay!" Ruby cheered as she hugged her partner" you won't regret it!"
And suddenly the wonderful team moment was interrupted by a pie hitting Yang's face. Jaune gasped at the sight as his teammates stared at the one responsible. Nora was obviously pointing at Ren while he sighed covering his face. They all knew who was REALLY responsible. Weiss only face palmed, while Blake closed her book knowing something bad is going to happen. Her kitty senses were telling her trouble is on the horizon. Yang's eyes were read, angry. Ruby followed ready to attack and Pyrrha followed. That's when the Arc realized in shock. About today.
"The food fight! I can't believe I forgot!"
(Music" This is the day" from the RWBY volume 1 original soundtrack by Jeff Williams and Cassie Lee Williams)
In a heart beat Weiss's team had thrown all the food on their table. Jaune acted by flipping their table using it for cover. It wasn't long before the other students at the cafeteria imitated the whole thing. Other screaming" food fight" and it all went down so fast. Team JRPY were being pinned down on the defensive but that was going to changed. The Arc wasn't happy with the food time from the original time line. He barely did anything. But now that he could fight and he was strong, he wasn't missing out on this. By now so many students were downed for the count and the cafeteria looked like a real mess. The blond knight told his team to spread and find weapons to fight the opposing team. Yang was able to find the turkey gauntlets, Ruby found a food tray and Pyrrha a long bread stick. That will do, with the right strategy.
Jaune sent the team's heavy hitter, the blond brawler after Nora, Ruby after Ren, and Pyrrha after Weiss. Meaning, Blake will be his opponent. Knowing the cat faunus was experienced and skilled. She was also the leader of the Shadow Fang. Another reason to take her seriously. He gave his team the signal to go out and attack. He ordered them to spread out and take on their perspective opponents. But there was a problem. He still hasn't found a weapon for him. His eyes were all over the place. The Arc saw a kettle lid and a long spoon, that will do for a sword and shield. Eventually, he left the table and went to the battle. Now that he thought about it, this will make good for training. It will prepare them for the tournament, well sort of. They won't be using food at the festival, that's for sure.
Jaune was able to see Ruby blocking brocoli sticks from Ren with her tray. They seemed to be even. But the red cloak girl was fast, the magenta eyed teen was going to have a hard time. Yang wasn't that hard trading blows with Nora. It was a good idea sending his heavy hitter against their heavy hitter. He hoped it doesn't turned out like the original time line in which the Valkyrie sent the blond brawler flying crashing the roof of the cafeteria. with her watermelon hammer. But it was looking good. Both ladies were even. The Arc knew both were strong and formidable opponents. All he needed to do now, is focused on his opponent. The blond leader immediately blocked something with the kettle lid. A line of sausage wieners resembling a whip. Blake was the owner of the tasty food. Blue eyes narrowed as he was ready to faced the cat faunus and underground organization leader.
Now Jaune knew what he was getting himself into when he chose to fight Blake. Though, this wasn't a serious fight, more like a sparring matching. Only difference, they were using food for weapons. No using semblance since they were still inside the school and this wasn't combat class. This was just plain old fun. But still, it was considered training for the tournament. The others of his team were taking it seriously. So, he will do the same. He blocked another swing of the sausages, she could really used it well. It was no surprise Blake's weapon Gambol Shroud was also a sickle with chain. So the long line of wieners could be used like that part of her weapon. The Arc blocked more attacks getting closer to the cat faunus as she did a couple of back flips. She was fast and agile but he had brains. So the obvious thing to do was attack her weapon of choice. Using the long spoon he cut through the wieners, rendering the raven haired black girl weaponless.
Blake found another weapon since there was food everywhere. Two long bread sticks. Jaune smirked, his weapon wasn't really food. It was made of silver, enough to smash through any kind of food. He crushed through those breads like a hot knife through butter. Using the kettle lid he hit the cat faunus sending her flying. He actually won. Guess he was lucky to be able to caught her off guard. Someone like Blake wasn't that easy to let her guard down especially with her cat-like reflexes. The blond turned to see how his teammates were doing. Pyrrha dominated Weiss, no surprised there. Ruby ended up using her speed to outmatch Ren, giving the silver eyed reaper the victory. However, Yang was still fighting Nora as the Valkyrie was throwing soda cans at her. Looks like she was being pushed to a corner. So Jaune ordered his two teammates to back her up. They were a team, they will fight together.
Ruby and Pyrrha blocked all the soda cans as the Valkyrie went to form a watermelon on a pole. Jaune gasped, that was the watermelon hammer she used to beat the blond brawler in the original time line. This time, he will make sure she doesn't win. Besides, it was four against one. They had the advantage in numbers and with the right strategy. They can win against the hyperactive girl. Jaune told Yang to head first while the other two went to both of her sides. He will go from behind. The four were surrounding the Valkyrie and yet, she was grinning in confidence. It wasn't a good sign. Nora charged some lightning into her arms and the Arc saw this. She was using her semblance after all, so he countered with his own. Jaune summoned Darknut as the dark knight used his shield to blocked her powerful lightning swing. It was strong enough to destroyed his armor as he changed back to crystal form.
Yang took the chance that the Valkyrie was wide opened and punched her with a straight hook of her turkey gauntlets. The girl was sent flying and she was out. It was the end of the food fight.
(Music end)
"Yay! Team JRPY triumphs!" cheered Ruby.
"We dominated this fight" followed Yang.
"Sorry about that Darknut" Jaune apologized to his summon.
"No problem. I'll have my armor back."
"That was pretty good, Jaune."
The team turned to see Cardin Winchester with his team. The leader was holding a big piece of ham, using it as a mace. Russel had two fish on a stick, using them as daggers. Miltia had kitchen mittens to use as if they were her claw gauntlets. Her twin sister Melanie was the only one that wasn't using something like that. But she was holding a couple of fruits and vegetables to throw around. It looked like they were ready for a fight.
"Hold on. We have to fight Cardin's team too?!" the Arc was shocked, this never happened in the original time line.
"We were watching the whole time" said Melanie.
"We want some of the action" replied Miltia.
"Truth is. We were waiting to see who was the winner of the fight. I couldn't be any happier that your team won, Jaune" the Winchester grinned.
"Hey, if they want a piece of us. Let's not disappoint them" Yang was ready.
"Yeah" followed Ruby.
"Yang, take on Miltia. Ruby I'm counting on you to handle Russel. Pyrrha, I leave Melanie to you."
The red head nodded.
(Music: "Time to say goodbye" from the RWBY volume 2 original soundtrack by Jeff Williams and Cassie Lee Williams)
Team JRPY faced off against team CMRM. They separated as the opposed team followed them. Cardin wanted a piece of Jaune, it was that clear. He wanted to fight him for a while since their match at combat class. The Arc knew so he will used that to his advantage. There was no need to worry about the others. They were able to take on Weiss's team with no problem, they will do fine against this team. Ruby was already fighting with Russel and gaining the upper hand in speed as she went left and right with her food tray. The poor teen didn't lasted long as he was taken out. That was one down and three to go. Jaune blocked and countered all of the Winchester's moves. They weren't sluggish at all. It proves the team leader has been training. There was a big difference between this Cardin and the one from the original time line. Maybe it had to do with his teammates. He didn't had the Malachite twins back then.
The blond focused back on the fight as he countered more of his moves. He was giving the tall teen a run for his money. All the training he had gave him so much experience. Not to mention he's been giving so many training schedules to his team, it was crazy. Yang even made a joke calling him a" training dictator". He didn't minded, because they needed all the training they could get. It was more than just participating in the Vytal Festival, but the coming invasion. But all the training has paid off making the three female members on his team, stronger than ever. Pyrrha was always perfect and invisible. She made work of Melanie in minutes even if the girl gave it her best. Yang went fist to fist with Miltia, even using kicks. But the other twin wasn't able to beat her. Once again she got beat just like that time at the Klub. Leaving him and Cardin as the only ones left standing.
With the others finishing their fight, they started cheering on their leader. Even Weiss and her team were cheering for the Arc. It made the blond smiled as he continued to fight off the Winchester. The tall teen glared as his attacks weren't working. Looks like his training was enough to defeat him. After he trained so much. Jaune still had the advantage over him. His best wasn't enough as his rivalry with him escalated. The blond has proven to be a better fighter and leader. Cardin needed to show him that he was better. But he was caught off guard and he got hit by the kettle lid as he fell to the ground. Everyone cheered as the fight was over.
(Music end)
"Great fight Cardin" Jaune offered him his hand.
"I don't need your help or your pity" he growled as he got up.
"Come on. It was just a fun fight, nothing too serious. We'll be representing the same school at the Vytal Festival."
"That doesn't matter to me…." he muttered but the Arc didn't heard him.
"That was so cool...I love these guys" Sun was present smiling at the sigh, his friend next to him didn't looked happy since his whole face was covered what it seems to be grape juice.
Suddenly the doors of the cafeteria opened revealing Goodwitch. She quickly used her semblance at the whole place organizing everything to the way it was before the food fight started. All the tables, chairs and right in place. The blond teacher frowned in disappointment at the teenagers. They shouldn't be doing such childish things. In the cafeteria of all places. A place designed to eat and take a break.
"Children please" she fixed her glasses" do not play with your food."
They didn't listened to her as they were chatting and laughing. Jaune was getting complimented while Cardin wasn't happy of his performance. His loss to the Arc put him in a bad mood. Yet his team weren't upset, they know he gave it his best. The same with them. After all Team JRPY has been training like mad preparing for the Vytal Festival. Maybe they should do the same. Goodwitch frowned again that they were ignoring her. This was a sign of disrespect. But before she could scold them, Ozpin arrived stopping her.
"Let it go."
"They're supposed to be the Defenders of the world" she sighed.
"And they will be, when the time comes. But for now, just let them be kids. After all, it won't be a role they will have forever" the headmaster gazed over at Jaune" some have already matured more than the rest and has taken upon themselves to shoulder a great burden."
The blond teacher gave a slow nod knowing he was talking about the Arc. The traveler from the future. She still found it crazy that he was from the future and he already the coming events. The huntress will obeyed the headmaster but she wasn't going to let this go without a proper punishment. She cleared her throat loud enough for them to hear her and they all turned pale at the way she was glaring at them.
"I hope you have enjoyed your" fun". Now, you'll be having it at detention."
Everyone groaned in response.
Jaune gave a sigh. He always wanted to play Ruby's board game. A strategic game where you're one of the four kingdoms and try conquer all of Remnant. During the original time line the sight of the game caught his interest and he offered Team RWBY if he could play with them. Of course, Weiss told him he wasn't smart enough to handle it. How he wanted to prove her wrong. But how could he, when he was starting to believe she was right. The blond stood seated in one of the round tables of the library with his team. They were playing the War for Remnant game. The Arc chose to be the kingdom of Vale, while Ruby was Atlas, Yang Vacuo, and Pyrrha was obviously her home of Mistral. The leader was more than excited when his silver eyed partner mentioned it since they had detention and couldn't do anything. So to kill time the red cloak girl offered to play the board game.
The first turns of the game weren't so hard. Then he started sucking bad. His kingdom was being invaded in all directions. With Yang's cunning traps and Ruby's cruel strategies, he was cornered. So here was the big question. If he was such a great leader and strategist how come he was so bad at this freaking game. Jaune couldn't find the answer to the question. He tried his best to enjoy the game, but he was failing. Next to him stood Weiss and her team. The heiress was trying to do her homework from Oobleck's class. Blake was reading a book, pretty obvious. Nora was snoozing off while Ren was reading a comic book. In the other table next to them stood team CMRM. Cardin looking upset and bored as hell, Melanie was in the same boat while her sister Miltia was reading a book with Russel. Both seemed to be enjoying it a lot. This was their detention for causing the food fight.
"Come on Jaune think. Don't let them destroy the proud kingdom of Vale."
"You suck balls in this game" Red Eyes gave his opinion.
The Arc ignored the dragon's comment as he focused on the game. Looking at his cards he had no idea if he had a good hand. Gazing at his teammates he saw Yang winking at him as if she was trying to intimidate him that he was screw. It wasn't going to work. Well, sort of. Ruby was all smiles holding her cards. And Pyrrha was trying to look modest. What to expect from the four time Mistral regional champion to be a quick learner of this game. But she was too good to be true. She was trying so hard not to beat him. The red head gave him an apologetic smile. It made Jaune scared, she was up to something. Might as well face the music. Determination filled his blue eyes. If he was going to down, then he will go down fighting. A humiliating defeat at the hands of the sisters who has played this game many times in the past. Maybe he can figure out a come back and get out of the horrible situation his kingdom was currently facing.
"It's your turn, Jaune" reminded Ruby.
And the Arc sighed again not knowing what to do.
"Why don't you let me help you?" asked Yang.
"Forget it. I did three turns ago and you almost wipe out half of my troops. I'm not falling for your tricks again" he frowned while the blond brawler whistled acting the innocent victim.
"You have to make a move if you want the game to progress" replied the red cloak girl.
"Let's just face it. I'm not good at this game. It's so much easier when it's real fighting that I'm good. But this, I'm just...Bad, really bad."
"At least you're not perfect as everyone thinks you are" Cardin piped in with a grin.
"Let him blow off some steam Jaune. He's still sore from that beating you gave him at the cafeteria. That's twice you beat him" Yang grinned while the Winchester glared at her, making a valid point.
"Maybe it's for the best if I surrender. The kingdom of Vale could use a better ruler than me."
"You can't quit! The game is way more fun when there's four players" said the silver eyed reaper.
"So you want me to keep getting my butt handed by your guys instead?" the blond leader sweat dropped.
"Jaune. I think you're thinking too much into this. You just have to focus more on the priority of the game. For example if you can't find a good offense then maybe, the best approach is a good defense" it had to be Pyrrha.
"A good defense? Yeah, I kinda tried that a few turns back. And I'm still getting beating thanks to Vacuo's constant attacks" he fixed a glance at Yang who whistled innocently again.
"Don't you forget. You still have that treaty with me. Mistral and Vale are allies in this war. I can lend you some of my troops to defend the walls of your kingdom."
"You're right. I forgot about it. Thanks Pyrrha" Jaune's blue eyes were now shinning with hope.
"No you're not anymore" said the blond brawler" you kinda broke the treaty Pyrrha when you activate the trap card "deceitful smite". By doing so, you went against the rules of the peace treaty officially making Vale your enemy."
"I did?!" gasped the red head in shock.
"And we're back to me not having a chance to make a good come back. I'm doom."
"I'm sorry Jaune. I didn't mean it."
"You REALLY do suck at this game" Red Eyes commented again.
This time, the Arc didn't bothered to ignore him.
"Wazzup, losers!" Sun arrived.
"Hey, Sun" greeted Ruby.
"Ruby, Yang, Pyrrha and Jaune my man. I never got the chance to introduce you to my old friend."
"Uh...Aren't libraries for reading?" said his blue haired friend.
"THANK YOU!" shouted Ren raising his arms.
"Pancakes!" followed Nora waking up.
"He has a point" agreed Miltia fixing a glance at her twin sister" you should grab a book too Melanie."
"I'm so sick of reading" to her surprise it was both Cardin and Melanie who replied in unison, which shocked them.
"Shut up, don't be a nerd" scolded Sun.
"Intellectual. Okay, thank you" corrected the blue haired teen turning to everyone" I'm Neptune."
"So, Neptune, where are you from?" asked Weiss.
"Haven" he smiled walking over the white haired girl" and I don't believe. I've caught your name, snow angel."
"Um...I'm Weiss" she stuttered a little.
"Pleasure to meet you" he flashed his catchy smile at her.
Jaune rolled his eyes. Looks like in this time line Neptune has a crush on the Schnee heiress too. He really hopes he means it this time around. He's such a womanizer not to mention he doesn't know how to dance. Which it was the reason why he turned her down when she asked him to the Beacon dance. But who knows this was an alternate time line now, so maybe he might get serious and man up to her. Turning to Blake he noticed she was having trouble reading. Sun was already there looking worried for her. In the original time line she wasn't feeling well due that White Fang and the criminal Roman Torchwick were still out there. She wanted to do something about it. That's what it lead to team RWBY's investigation dragging Sun and Neptune into the mix. But now that there was no RWBY, what will happen. This time, Blake was the leader of the Shadow Fang, she can have her agents look into it instead.
"Neptune. It's been an honor to meet you. But I'll be heading back now. I have had enough fun with this game for the day" the Arc got up from his table.
"I knew we should have gone easy on him" Ruby muttered while pouting.
After leaving the library Jaune was feeling a bit better. It was great to finally be done with that dumb board game. Maybe he will go back to his dorm and do some home work. Or better yet, more training drills for his team. It was never enough to get some training done. The blond rubbed his forehead, who he was kidding. He was feeling more restless than Blake. It wasn't Torchwick or the White Fang it was that woman. The one controlling it all, the mastermind. And then there was the big fish she was taking orders from. Those were bigger threats than a wanted criminal and a terrorist faunus group. Ozpin told him they have huntsmen and the police looking into it. But he knew it won't do any good. It made him like going out there himself. All this thinking was getting the better off him. Maybe getting some rest will help. His warm bed might do the trick. Jaune could care less about Goodwitch's detention.
As the Arc arrived at the hallway of his dorm he saw four figures heading his way. One was a male. Blue eyes widened recognizing the teen as Mercury Black, he works for that amber eyed woman along with Emerald. He was the only one that didn't got a wanted poster. Jaune remained calm, maybe texting Ozpin letting him know of his presence will help. But the gray haired male wasn't alone. There was no Emerald and definitely not the amber eyed woman. The second person with him was female with black haired tied in twin pig tails and green eyes. The other two with them was a male with short orange hair and amethyst eyes. The other was female with orange hair tied on a single braid with amethyst eyes. They seemed to be related, maybe they were siblings and also they had dark yellow fox ears, so they were faunus. They definitely looked suspicious but Jaune decided to keep calm and gave them a cordial smile.
"Hello. Can I help you?"
"I hope you can. You are wearing a Beacon uniform" Mercury smiled" you see we're a little lost. We're from Haven and it's our first time in this school. Hope you can help us get to the guest dorms."
"Yeah. I know about exchange students from others schools staying here. We're all excited for the Vytal Festival. I'm Jaune by the way" the blond shook his head.
"Mercury" he smiled pointing to the black haired girl with pigtails" that's Nikki, she doesn't speak much. And those two are-"
"Jina" replied the female with orange hair giving a bow" this is my brother Jin."
"Pleased to meet you" replied the orange haired male.
"We're all from Haven Academy" resumed Jina.
"Pleased to meet you all" the Arc kept his smile" look at me, I'm getting side tracked here, silly me. The guest dorms are the next hallway. You can't miss it."
"Thanks. Hope we get to see each other again" Mercury waved as he left with the others.
"You can't fool me Mercury. I know you're working for her. I should have expected it will be different in this time line. I better text Ozpin and let him know. So he can keep an eye on him. I don't know of the others with him but they're probably working with him. So chances are high they might be working for her too."
Jaune interrupted his train of thought as he saw the girl named "Nikki" standing at the end of the hallway. She smiled at him while waving at him. Then she left.
"Okaaayyyyy…That was, weird."
"It doesn't seem like he suspects anything" said Jin walking with the Haven team once he sensed they were alone in the school hallway.
"Oh, he does trust me. If he somehow knows Cinder and Emerald. Then he must know about me too. Don't ask me how he knows. At least that's what Cinder thinks. She believes he was the one who gave away their information to the cops to make their wanted posters. Except for us. Which is the reason why we're here infiltrating Beacon" said Mercury.
"If he knows you too. We might have to keep our guard up" said Jina.
"Cinder said the same thing. She also said not to get too comfortable while we're here. We keep a low profile and we prevent from being too suspicious. We play the part as Haven students, nothing else" replied the gray haired teen.
"We blend in" said Jin while his sister nodded.
"Exactly Six...Er-I mean, Jin" he chuckled while the orange haired male glared at him for calling him by his alias.
"Then the rest will be handled by the boss?" said Jina.
"You got it. As for Jaune" Mercury grinned" Cinder will take care of him too."
Jaune lied on his bed after arriving at his team dorm. He already texted Ozpin about the new exchange students from Haven. He hoped the headmaster's will act soon. But knowing him, he won't. He was a very patient man. At least have Qrow to keep them under his radar. Before throwing himself into his bed, he glance over the window. The blond could see the large fleets that belonged to the Atlas military. That means Ironwood was already here and he was probably talking to Ozpin. Just like in the original time line. If there was one thing he learned. It doesn't matter how much firepower you have. If you don't know who's the enemy or where it is, then even dozens of armies can fall to a strategic mind. And Cinder was no reckless fool, she knew exactly what she was doing. His scroll started ringing, opening the device the Arc raised an eyebrow, it said" number unavailable".
"Hello?" he still picked up the call.
*Do you recognize my voice?*
Blue eyes widened in shock as he felt a chill running down his spine. Somehow, he recognized the female voice that had a hint of seduction in it.
*I will take your silence as a yes. Jaune Arc.
"H-How do you know me? How do you get this number" his body tensed gripping the scroll.
*That doesn't matter. As for your first question. Why don't you tell me? You seem to know me rather well. But I don't know you. I've never met you in my life….
"It's her...It has to be. Maybe I can patch the call to Ozpin, or something…."
*Please don't keep giving me the silent treatment. It's rude to stay quiet for too long towards a lady.*
"I...It's you, isn't it? You're the one that tried to kill Amber?"
*Indeed, so you do know me. Why don't we get to know each other more. At least, I'm interested to know more about you Jaune.*
"I won't fall for your tricks, you hear me? Stop it with your mind games it won't work. I'm hanging up now" he was hoping she will buy his bluff.
*You don't want that. Very well, if it's not a social meeting. Then, how about we get straight to the point? Let's end this once and for all.*
"What are you talking about?"
*You know what I mean. You hold a lot of hatred towards me. And though I don't know why. You really want to fight me. I can see it in your eyes...You want me dead. Or am I wrong?*
The Arc finally snapped as his eyes narrowed" yes. I so want to kill you with my bare hands. I want you to pay…."
*All that hatred is quite flattering Jaune. And yet, you don't even know my name. A wanted poster without one won't be so effective.*
"Funny you say it. From where I'm looking at, it does seem to be working just fine. You're currently hiding like a rat cornered from all sides."
*Taunting me won't get you nowhere dear. I'm just patient, waiting for the right moment to strike. Or would you like to prove me wrong?*
"Just what is it that you want from me?" this woman was really getting on his nerves.
*I already said my reasons for calling you. You want to settle things with me. Then I will give you the chance. A one on one fight.*
"You're lying" he wasn't buying her bluff" there's no way you will do that. You're too clever to give an open challenge to anyone. It's too reckless. That's not you."
*You really do know me that well, I'm honored. But I'm not lying Jaune. I challenge you. Let's meet at the following coordinates. I'll send them to your scroll. Don't keep me waiting.*
"Wait…."
*As for my name. It's Cinder….*
"Hello?" Jaune realized she has hanged up.
The scroll beeped as he received a private message. The Arc checked it, a map of the city of Vale was shown. A red dot was blinking at a location. It looked like a building, it showed the address. That's where she'll be waiting for him. Now he knew better than this. He didn't believed her. And if Cinder was telling the truth, it was nothing but a trap. But he stood in deep thought. This was his chance to finally defeat her and prevent the invasion at the Vytal Festival from happening. The chance to prevent Pyrrha from dying. He didn't care if he'll be altering the time live even more. Just one fight and he can finally end this. At least he will take out one of Salem's top members. Jaune finally made up his mind as he changed from his uniform into his battle attire, getting his gear ready. The blond sheathed Excalibur along with Crocea Mors, he will need both weapons for this fight.
"Jaune wait" Palutena spoke "don't do this. It's not wise to fight such a threat on your own. Warn the headmaster and your teammates. Let them know of the situation. Fighting alone is a reckless move."
"I must. I have to."
"You know it's a set up. You'll be falling right into her hands if you go."
"I agreed. She wants to take you out of the picture because she sees you as a possible threat in her plans" said Behemoth King.
"But I have trained for so LONG for this opportunity. I'm strong enough to take her out now. She doesn't have Amber's maiden powers, so she isn't that powerful when Pyrrha fought her. I know I can do it."
"Being confident and being reckless are two different things. Don't do this" replied Palutena.
"If you go. You'll be nothing but a fool. We can't guarantee you'll be safe even with our protection" said Celsius.
"Sorry everyone. But I've made up my mind."
"Yeah! Let's go and kick that woman's ass! I'll roast her, extra crispy!" at least Red Eyes agrees with him.
"Shut up! You're nothing but a bad influence on Jaune. We want to protect him and keep him from getting hurt or worse and you want to encourage him to throw himself into the fire pit?!" snapped Elf.
"I believe in him unlike the rest of you! Well...Sort of..."
Jaune sighed finally ending the mentally debate with his summons. He was ready to go. There was no turning back. Today, he will fight and defeat Cinder. But as he was about to leave the dorm, the door opened.
"Oh no…."
"I knew we shouldn't have let him play" Yang didn't sounded happy.
"You're just mad because the new guy beat you" Ruby countered saying Neptune was better than her at the board strategy game.
"Well, you win some you lose some…." Pyrrha paused when she saw her leader all geared up" Jaune…?
Both sisters turned to their leader too.
"Um…." the Arc cursed mentally why do they have to show up now.
"What's going on?" asked the red cloak petite.
"Where are you going?" asked the red head champion.
"Yeah. You look like you're ready to fight an army" the blond brawler joked a little.
"Something like that" he sweat dropped.
"Are you heading somewhere?" Pyrrha pressed on.
"Damn it. Not now…."
"Now's your chance Jaune. You said you trust your team more than anything. If you do, then you'll tell them." said Palutena.
"Yeah. I'm heading into the city."
"Oh can we go with you?!" chirped Ruby.
"No. I'll be fine alone. I won't be long."
"Are you sure? Is there something you would like to tell us?" Pyrrha wasn't letting him go that easy.
"Why do you have to be so over protective? I can look after myself."
"Because she can sense something's wrong. Please, I beg of you. Don't walk away" said the Goddess of Light.
"Look. I won't be long, I mean it. I'm just going to have a look around town. Maybe buy some new accessories."
"You're going to check out weapon shops without me" the red cloak girl pouted at her partner.
"Only accessories Ruby."
"If you want to go that's okay. But I think it sucks you're not taking us with you" said Yang.
"I'll be fine" he turned to the red head champion.
"All right" she finally spoke" if you want to go, that's fine. But make sure to give us a call when you're heading back."
"Geez Pyrrha, he'll be fine. Our fearless leader can take care of himself. Besides, we can track his location with the GPS app installed in our scrolls. All Beacon students have it" said the blond brawler.
"I'll make sure to call. See you guys later" Jaune smiled as he left the dorm.
For some reason the three girls felt like something was wrong. They had a bad feeling. It felt like they won't be seeing their leader again. They hope, they were wrong.
"Maybe we should have gone with him" said Ruby.
"Maybe…." whispered Pyrrha.
(Time skip)
Jaune finally arrived at the place where Cinder is supposed to be waiting for him. It was an old building and no surprise it was abandoned. It looked creepy. The perfect place for a set up. If it was a trap he'll use his summons. Or better yet, he'll summon Red Eyes to fly him out of here. He wasn't going to take the risk if it was just a lie from the amber eyed woman. But she did sounded very convincing when she called him. Still, he was going to be cautious, Cinder can be manipulative with her words asides from being smart. Telling him" here I am let's fight" was out of her character. It was definitely not her style. That's why ninety five percent chance it was a trap. The Arc glared now he was starting to regret his choice of not telling his team. Or text Ozpin about this. But he remembered Yang's words his scroll had a GPS app that any student and teacher of Beacon had. Basically the whole school will know he was here.
"If all goes south I can count on my team."
"Whatever happened to that confidence from earlier?" mocked Red Eyes.
"I'm only being cautious. There's no way she's all alone inside."
"Then perhaps you should have told your teammates instead" followed Celsius.
"I hate to say this Jaune. But you're a hypocrite! You say you trust your team and yet you kept this from them. Either you trust them or you don't!" said Elf upset.
"Be quiet all of you!"
Jaune ignored his summons as he walked over to the building. He unsheathed Excalibur as he slowly turned the handle. Entering the building, it was dark and dusty. Good thing he wasn't allergic to dust. This place has been abandoned for a long time. It was half empty with a few boxes lying around. The Arc made a mental note again that this was a good place for an ambush. Yet, he showed determination. Remembering all the training he did with Summer and his father. Everything he did has been for this moment. If Cinder was truly here then, he will end it here and now. Walking closer the blond was looking around. Some of the windows were giving a little light to illuminate the area. His bad feeling was getting worse or maybe it was his nerves. He was getting nervous being here, alone. So far there was no sign of the amber eyed woman. It did smell like it was all a lie, a bluff made by her.
"Glad to see you, Jaune."
The Arc glared as a figure stepped out of the shadows. Long ashen-black hair, amber eyes, her nails were painted dark red, lipstick and violet eyeshadow. Her attire was a little different from the one she wore when he first met her during Amber's attack. A dark-red off-the-shoulders, v-neck mini dress with yellow designs. There is a blue feather-like accessory on her right hip, at the top of an open portion of her dress. The dress ends up in an upside-down triangular tail in the back, ending just above the knees. The blond kept his guard up glaring at the young woman. He checked his surroundings once more. No White Fang members, no Torchwick, no Emerald. It seemed Cinder kept her word and she was really alone here. The woman didn't looked intimidated by his presence in the least. She was relaxed, not a single trace of fear in her amber orbs. The knight didn't like it, was she planning something after all.
"And you made it on time too. Good. I like punctuality" a small smile spread her features.
"No trap?"
"Do you see anyone else here besides us? It's been a while since we last saw each other."
"Your hair was shorter back then."
"Thanks for the compliment. But you're not here to make an attempt at flirting with me. Are you?"
"Not in the least" he glared as he readied his sword.
"I still don't understand why are you so, hell bent on killing me?"
(Music: "The Last Hero" by Alter Bridge from the album The Last Hero)
"It doesn't matter. Today, I'm taking you down" he fired the rifle feature of Excalibur.
Cinder moved out of the way as she made a weapon appeared. A Scimitar matching the same color as her dress.
"I suppose you're right. Because of you I lost the perfect chance at getting rid of Amber. You're my enemy and I must remove you permanently. Simple as that."
"You mean steal her maiden powers?"
Amber eyes narrowed so he did knew of the maidens. This was inconvenient, it will explained why he saved Amber. This only give her the more reason to take him out. She blocked bullets using her Scimitar as she made various yellow and orange circles appeared below the blond teen. Jaune gasped not like the sight as he moved out of the way. They exploded, eyes widened as Cinder charged at him. Both were clashing swords. They clashed at fast speed while the young woman made another circle appeared below him. The Arc jumped changing Excalibur to grenade launcher mode. Firing one straight at his opponent. But the amber eyed woman cut through the grenade with her weapon so easily. Jaune realized she was this good even without maiden powers. A formidable opponent indeed. It was the reason why he trained so hard all these years.
Cinder changed her weapons to a black glass bow and started firing arrows. The blond knight countered taking Crocea Mors's shield blocking the projectiles. But as soon as they made contact, it exploded. He was sent flying and tried to regained his balance. Jaune made it standing on one knee, only to stared at a couple of explosive circles. Dodging more explosions he knew this fight was going to take a while. Or it was going to be a big pain in the butt. She kept using explosive circles while firing more arrows. She was keeping her distance from him. Having the advantage in long range. This wasn't working, he needed to get closer. The blond kept on moving around avoiding getting caught in the explosive circles. He fired Excalibur's bullets, then quickly changed to grenades. Cinder dodged by jumping straight at him. He was shocked that she was willing to take such a crazy risk.
The amber eyed woman changed her weapon back to her Scimitar as the Arc blocked the strike with his shield. Once more they were striking each other at impressive speed. Jaune was trying so hard not to let his hatred get the better of him. He needed to focus on the fight or he could get killed. This was no ordinary opponent. Even without Mercury and Emerald helping her, Cinder was still a force to be reckon with. It was hard to find any openings in her, she was that good. Then he lost his shield as it was sent far away from his location. That wasn't good, it will be hard to protect himself from her attacks. And things got worse for Jaune as a strong attack from the young woman have completely destroyed Excalibur. Blue eyes widened in shock, his upgraded weapon was tore to pieces. He was kicked being sent to the ground. The blond couldn't believed what just happened.
(Music end)
"It can't end like this…."
"So sorry about your sword. It was a good model" Cinder grinned pointing her Scimitar straight at the blond's face.
"What to do? Think Jaune, don't let it end like this. You can't die after everything...All the training…."
Jaune and John clashed swords as part of one of their sparring matches. His old man wasn't going easy on him. There was a reason why he was the head of the Arc family. But thanks to what he learned from Summer he managed to over powered his own father. With a swift attack he knocked his sword away, leaving him defenseless. John kept his composure, not showing fear or concern that he has lost.
"I did it!" he smiled.
"Did you?"
"Huh?"
Just like that, the older Arc has removed a dagger from his back catching Jaune off guard. He couldn't react on time to use the shield as he lost his sword. He tried to protect himself, but he also lost the shield. The teen was in complete shock. One second he had the match in his favor and the next, he has lost.
"There's an important lesson to learn from this son. The element of surprise can save your life even in the toughest spots. Remember, one weapon isn't enough."
Jaune gave a nod understanding his lesson.
"Thanks for telling me dad" he mentally smiled.
"That's it, no farewells, no last words, only silence?" Cinder admitted to respect his expression, like he wasn't afraid to die, just when she has him under her mercy.
"Who said the fight was over?" the blond gave a small grin.
"…."
(Music: "The Bringer of War" by Tremonti from the album A Dying Machine)
It all happened so fast for Cinder to react. She didn't saw it coming as Jaune has taken a sword from the back of his outfit. With quickness he managed to wound her left shoulder. The amber eyed woman gave a cried of pain, not believing she let her guard down. Her glare pierce the blond like a hot sword going through human skin. The Arc took the chance to go after his shield. As soon as he grabbed there were dozens of explosive circles below him, he ran like he never ran before. Now that he angered his opponent, he knew he was way in over his head. He couldn't do this alone. Cinder kept using explosive circles as it was doing a lot of damage to the abandoned building. The wound she received wasn't that deep, but it will take time for her aura to heal it. Jaune knew what to do, it will take some aura but if he pulls it right. He will be able to beat her.
"Now that she's hurt. It's my chance to go all out."
The blond knight summoned four crystals bringing his summons to the field.
"All right. Behemoth King, Darknut, Celsius and Elfy get her!"
The four emerged from the shattered crystals. Cinder was now staring at the four summons. So this was his semblance, it was quite impressive. Similar to how Salem can bring Grimm to her call or how the Schnee family can summon creatures made of ice. She was outnumbered, she knew that well and with injury, she won't be able to react so fast. She dodged a barrage of arrows from the elf summon, then the large creature started charging at her with what it looks a ram attack. The amber eyed woman jumped away while dodging a rain of ice missiles coming from the ice woman summon. And she barely blocked a sword strike from the summon in the big armor. She knew when she was outmatched and Jaune has done a pretty good job in giving her a good fight. It was a good thing she had a backup plan ready if things takes a turn against her favor. It will be happening shortly.
"Don't let her get away!" Jaune was losing his temper, he was so close.
Suddenly the blond knight thought he was seeing double. Then triple, he was shocked. There Cinder all over the place. There were like hundreds of the young woman. Was he seeing things. The Cinder army charged at him and he shouted to his summons to attack all of them. But Celsius, Darknut, Behemoth King and Elf had no idea what he was talking about. They couldn't see anything in sight. In fact, there was no sign of the amber eyed woman anywhere. It's like she vanished. Jaune was going crazy seeing more of her, he was attacking from all directions. Was it possible he was losing his it. While his summons were trying to calm him. Telling him that there was nothing there. Now the blond teen was running away as he was being chased by thousands of Cinder. While that was happening, the real Cinder stood hiding in the shadows giving an evil grin at the sight.
(Music end)
She admitted Jaune did a good job. Without her backup plan, she would have been beaten or even killed. Now it was her chance to strike back. While the blonds summons weren't focusing on her anymore. Her first target was the large beast. Changing her weapon into glass bow, fired a barrage of arrows hitting the creature dead on. It changed back to a crystal vanishing. Her next target was the archer. She was the most dangerous of the four. Her aim must be flawless and a real threat in long range. So was she. The Amber eyed woman fired more arrows hitting the Elf as she turned to crystal and vanished. The remaining two noticed this and started checking their surroundings. Looks like the enemy didn't retreated after all. It was impossible to convinced their master since he was so lost, seeing the illusion of so many Cinder. The two close range summons will be easy to deal with, even with her injury.
Changing her weapon once again. This time, it was a pair of two similar swords in black. She created two explosive circles on the two summons hitting them. She followed with a few quick attacks that was enough to take them down. Only one more opponent to go. There was no need to worried, this fight was already won. Making her weapon vanished she took something from her back pocket. Jaune screamed thinking he was about to get killed by the Cinder army, he realized there was nothing. Only one amber eyed woman who has suddenly injected him with something. The Arc noticed movement not too far from the woman. There was someone else in the building. Blue eyes widened recognizing Emerald Sustrai. He was starting to feel weak, his body getting numb. He could barely keep his eyes opened. Now, he knew he made a mistake in coming here alone without telling anyone.
"So it was a trap after all. How could I have been so stupid...?"
"Well done, Emerald."
"I had no idea he was this strong" replied the dark skin girl.
"He was a worthy opponent, I admit" she smiled at the fallen knight.
"What will you do with him? Are you going to kill him?"
"Not yet. He knows about the maidens."
"He does?!" she gasped" how?"
"I'm curious to know how much information he knows."
"Damn it move…Why won't you move...What did she do to me…?" Jaune's eyes started closing as the last thing he saw was Cinder smiling at him.
"Sweet dreams."
To be continued
-What's this? HOLY SHIT an update finally after...let's see….TWO YEARS damn. I am so sorry for the late delay. I have a good reason for it. I had a case of huge writers block but not anymore.
-I will try to update this story more recently along with Proving his Worth. I already started the next chapter of the former. I will also work on the next chapter for this story.
-Please accept my sincerest apologies for delaying this story. I know there are many stories I haven't updated in years. But either, I gave up on them or I have writers block like I did with this one. But anyway I want to thank all of the fans of this story and for having lots of patience. I promise I will do my best to update regularly.
-As for the chapter I say Jaune had it coming for various reasons. First for being stupid. He knew it was a trap and he chose to stay quiet about it by going alone. Second for being a hypocrite. As stated by Elf he trusts his team a lot but he doesn't trust them about telling them of Cinder's challenge. The same can apply about telling them that he's from the future. Third his hatred for Cinder got the better of him. Cinder used his hatred to her advantage to lured him into the trap. Come on people do you seriously think she was going to play fair. I don't think so.
-Just to point out Jaune's summons can see through Emerald's semblance. That's why they didn't saw the army of Cinders.
-I wanted to add Cardin's team for the food fight. It will make a more alternate version to the one from canon. Team JRPY have grown strong because of Jaune's training sessions. He wants to prepare his team for the Vytal invasion.
-I'm going to need a team name for Mercury, Nikki being Neo, Jin and Jena who are obviously Six and Rix. Remember it doesn't necessary has to be named after a color.
-Jaune has been captured by Cinder, what's going to happen to him?! Won't say anything lol.
-As always thank you very much for all the favs, follows (I have no idea I had so many O_O I haven't checked this story in a while. I still haven't removed the Bumblebee rant lol) and reviews. I really appreciate it.
Next time: Prisoner