15 years after the fall of Glenn. . .

BUZZZZZZZZ~~~~

"Ugh. . ."

'Stupid alarm clock. Lemme sleep dangit!'

BUZZZZZZZZ~~~~

Her hands began to twitch as they crept towards her beloved weapon, resting as it always is beside her bed. She was intent on silencing the infernal device for good. The clock continued to make its noise, blissfully unaware of it's impending doom.

'Almost got it. Just a few more inches and I can end it's miserable existence!'

"Ruby!" A voice called from downstairs. "You better not break that clock! We just got it last week!"

'Darn!'

Acknowledging defeat and rather then smashing it, Ruby slapped the top of the clock, silencing the alarm. Rolling over onto her back, she groaned tiredly and rubbed the grogginess out of her eyes.

"Come on, Rubes! If you don't hurry dad will eat all the waffles again!"

"Not my waffles!"

Sleepiness forgotten, Ruby flew from her bed and down the stairs in flurry of rose petals. She appeared at the kitchen table in her usual seat, fork in hand and a deadly glare aimed at her father.

"G'morning sis!" Yang greeted her cheerfully as she took off her apron. "Dad was just about to chow down on your share."

"Was not," Taiyang retorted, briefly taking his eyes off of his scroll. "Though Zwei seems pretty eager to do so." he noted.

Sure enough the small corgi was hanging off the table by his front paws, intently staring at her food.

"Ah, Zwei! Bad boy," Ruby exclaimed as she pulled the dog from the table and tossing him in the direction of his bowl. "Go eat your own food."

The dog landed and trotted away happily, seemingly unaffected by his brief flight. Rolling her eyes, Ruby turned back to her food only to gape in shock a moment later. "Who took all my bacon?!" She aimed a scowl at her father.

"Wasn't me!" he defended himself, hands raised in surrender. The glare didn't drop.

"You need to pay more attention to your surroundings, Little Rose."

"Ah, mom!" Ruby relented in her stare, letting Tai relax. "What do you mea-" her eyes then caught the half eaten strip of bacon in the woman's hand. "You took it!"

"Indeed," she said, crimson orbs shining with amusement. She took deliberately slow bites as she finished of the piece. "It was quite delicious."

Ruby pouted and she turned her head to the side. "I bet it was, stupid bacon thief." she grumbled.

"If you want some so much, why don't you take some of Yang's?" Tai suggested. "She has plenty."

The three glanced at the blonde, all with varying degrees of bemusement. On her plate was what could only be described as a mountain of bacon. Her single blonde, antenna like stand of hair waved happily atop her head as she merrily munched on a few strips of the meat.

". . . I don't wanna die yet."

"Fair enough." Tai conceded.

There were only three rules when it came to Yang. Don't disturb her while she cooks, don't touch her hair, and keep your hands off of her bacon. Follow these easy three rules and she's an easy friend to have. Disobeying the first would likely only end up in a heavy scolding, disobey the last two however, and you'll be wondering why you're waking up in a hospital.

"So," Raven said, changing the subject. "Are you packed and ready for Beacon?"

Ruby nodded as she started eating "Yeah. I have all my stuff sitting in my suitcase by my door."

"Everything?"

"Well, all my essentials at least. I figured if I need anything else then Vale isn't that far of a trip." she replied.

"Good," Raven nodded. "What time do you plan on leaving? The last ship takes off in an hour, doesn't it?"

Ruby's eyes widened as she glanced at the clock. "Ah, you're right! I still gotta get a shower and change!" she exclaimed as she inhaled her breakfast in an instant and threw her dish in the sink. "Thanks for the food sis! I'll be back down in twenty!"

"Right, right," Yang waved dismissively, mind still focused on her food. "Just be ready to go in half an hour or I'm leaving without you."

"So mean!" the Rose shouted, already halfway up the stairs.

XxXxX

"I blame you for this." Ruby huffed as the two sisters sprinted to their destination. Luckily for them, the boat ride from Patch wasn't very long, lasting at a mere ten minutes. Of course, this left them with only a few precious minutes to make it across Vale, rather than the planned twenty, in order to get to the nearest Bullhead scheduled to leave for Beacon.

"I said I was sorry!" Yang said as she threw her hands up. "I didn't know that we were that low on time."

"You were the one who said you were gonna leave me behind if I didn't hurry," she complained. "You're just lucky that dad said he would take our stuff to Beacon for us."

"Yeah, yeah, I got it. Just focus on running."

"Says you. Slow poke." Ruby retorted.

"Yeah?"

"Yeah!"

"Then do it then," Yang challenged, "Unless you're too afraid to go on your own."

"Eh!? No way! I'm no chicken!" Then, she was gone. Leaving in a flash of red and a few scattered rose petals.

"Huh. . . She actually did it." Yang stopped for a minute to scratch her head. "Well, whatever. She's probably gonna huddle in a corner by herself anyways."

(Line Break)

". . . Maybe I should've waited for her." Ruby mused quietly to herself. She was currently standing near the tail end of a crowd of students waiting for the Bullhead to Beacon. Her head was down with her hood drawn tightly over it, a few strands of red tipped hair and a slight frown were the only things visible beneath it.

"Wait on who?" A voice spoke up beside her. Ruby glanced over at the turquoise eyed girl standing next to her. Their meeting had been rather. . . interesting.

As she had gotten closer to the station, just moments after leaving her sister, her nerves began to get the best of her. Having deciding that appearing in the middle of such a large mass of hopeful Beacon students wasn't the best of ideas, she had slowed to a stop just at the edge crowd and suppressed her aura as much as she could to avoid standing out. An ability taught to her by her mother, Raven. The technique should have rendered her practically invisible to anyone who hadn't noticed her yet, which is why she chose the spot that she had. This, of course, was the reason why she reacted as she did when a hand was placed on her shoulder.

"Hey- Woah!" The girl exclaimed in shock as she swiftly caught the foot just inches from her face. The movement was so fast it could be considered instantaneous, but the stranger had caught the action in time to react. When the hand had dropped on her shoulder, Ruby had already moved to the side, pivoted on her heel, and lashed out with her leg. The kick connected with the girl's hand and sent a small gust of wind exploding from the contact.

'What the heck?' Ruby thought to herself. 'I didn't sense her. . . no, them in the slightest!' She corrected, spotting the boy next to her.

"Ah, sorry" the girl spoke, scratching the back of her head. "I didn't mean to scare you."

"Please forgive Nora," the other one, a boy, said in a slightly deadpan tone. "She has a bad habit of appearing unexpectedly." The girl just laughed, not denying anything.

Ruby took a moment to process this as she pulled her leg from the girl's grasp, struggling a bit as she did so. She blinked a few times once she had both feet on the ground and looked at the two of them. Ever so slowly, heat crept up her neck as embarrassment took over.

"Ah, I'm sorry!" she apologized profusely, crouching in shame and pulling her hood tightly around her head. "I didn't mean to attack you! My body just reacted before my mind could! I'm really, really, really sorry!"

"Hey now," Nora said, waving both of her hands in front of her. "Don't worry about it. I shouldn't have startled you like that. But~ if it makes you feel any better, I forgive you." She finished with a wide smile.

Ruby looked up from her low position and met her with a hesitant grin. She stood up slowly. ". . . Okay."

"Maybe we should introduce ourselves." the boy suggested.

"Ooh, ooh!" Nora said hopping in front of him, an arm raised. "Can I do it?" he nodded. "My name is Nora Valkyrie, Pancake Queen and the Serp-"

"Nora." the boy cut in, his tone not changing but notably more stern.

"Er, right. . . Just Pancake Queen then." she said sheepishly, "Anyways, this is Renny, Master Pancake Maker!"

'Renny' sighed, "My name is Lie Ren." he corrected. "It's nice to meet you. . . "

". . . Huh? Oh! Ruby. My name is Ruby Rose."

"It's nice to meet you, Ruby." Ren finished.

"Yeah, what Renny said!" Nora cheered, "Wanna be friends? We could talk about girl things, smash some stuff, or~ we could eat some pancakes together! Ooh, ooh, Renny! Could you make us some pancakes so we can talk about girl stuff while smashing things?"

"Sure, Nora."

"Yes!" She threw a fist into the air. "That sounds like fun, right Ruby?"

"R-Right." Ruby muttered, not entirely sure of the situation.

"Don't worry about her," said Ren, noticing her uncertainty. "She just gets a little excited meeting new people."

"Oh. . . "

"Am I making you uncomfortable?" Nora asked, suddenly appearing in front of her. Ruby jerked back at the sudden closeness of the girl.

"Ah, no! I'm just not used to talking with others." she explained sheepishly.

"Heh~ Is that so?" Nora moved closer to her, grinning widely. "I don't see why. You're really cute so there should be plenty of people who would talk to ya!"

"Ah- I mean. . . that is- I don't. . . " Ruby stammered out. Heat creeped up her neck and to her face as she quickly drew her hood closely over her head once more.

"Nora," Ren scolded.

"Right, too much. Sorry, Red!" Nora apologized, twirling a strand of orange hair.

"I-It's fine." she murmured, still covered by her cloak.

Nora frowned and glanced at Ren. He just shook his head, silently telling her to give the girl space. The excitable girl simply pouted but remained quiet otherwise.

. . . And that's how it has been since then. Ruby huddled up in her hood and the other two talking. Well, Nora was. Ren simply listened. She had eventually rejoined the conversation again but left the hood up, enjoying the comfort it provided.

"Well?" Nora questioned. "Who are you waiting on?"

"My sister, Yang. She said to go on ahead of her." Not entirely true, but close enough. "She should be here soon though."

"Ooh~ you have a sister? What's she like?" Nora asked curiously.

Ruby looked thoughtful, her silver eyes gleaming a bit from under her hood. "Yang is. . . a handful at times. But can be a lot of fun as long as you can stand her awful puns."

"Bad puns?"

"Yeah, she takes any moment she gets to make a pun. No matter how bad it is."

"Huh, that doesn't sound so bad." Nora folded her arms behind her head. "It's just silly jokes. What's the worst she could do?"

"Uh, huh." Ruby said skeptically. "Anyways, she needs to hurry up. I think the Bullhead will be here soon."

"Actually," Ren pointed out, "I think it has just arrived."

Sure enough, the airship had flown into view and was making its way to the docking station. At the same time, Yang's aura finally entered her sense's range. She was moving towards them at a steady pace, but it wasn't very fast, which meant she was more than likely jogging without much urgency. Ruby sighed in a small show of exasperation and waited until she got a little closer before sending two small, almost unnoticeable, pulses of her aura out. A moment later Yang's pace picked up drastically.

"Will your sister make it?" Nora asked, slightly concerned.

"She'll be here." Ruby replied confidently.

"Oh, okay. That's good! It would suck to be late to initiation."

"It certainly wouldn't make a good first impression on the professors." Ren inputted. "Beacon is quite the prestigious academy and would likely disapprove of such actions, especially on an important day like initiation. Good punctuality is a fantastic way to set oneself up for success, not only in school, but the long term as well. I'm sure the professors feel the same and would likely express this to whomever thinks otherwise."

". . ."

". . ."

". . . What?" Ren asked, looking confused at the vacant stares he was getting. "Is there something on my face?"

". . . So, Ruby!" Nora turned to the cloaked girl. "What do you think the initiation is gonna be like?"

"Are you ignoring me?"

"I know we'll form teams during it, but I don't know how they'll do that." Ruby answered, curious herself.

"You as well?"

"You think they'll make us fight Grimm?"

"Seriously?"

"It's a possibility. That is what we're being trained for."

"Ooh~ I hope there'll be a Deathstalker! I wanna rematch!"

"You've fought a Deathstalker before?"

"Uh, huh! Renny and I did! But we couldn't beat it on our own and ended up getting saved." Nora pouted, puffing out her left cheek. "We'll get it next time though!"

"That's so cool!" Ruby exclaimed. "I've only killed Beowolfs and some Ursa. I wish I could fight one!"

"Hey, that's not too bad. I'm sure you could take one on! Oh, I know! How about we double team one together!" she said, throwing up a fist. "That way you can get your fight, and I can have my vengeance!"

Ren sighed in defeat as the girls carried on with their conversation. 'Maybe I didn't provide enough emphasis on the detail? Should I have given further insight on why I believe what I do, or perhaps I should've toned it down a little. . . No. I definitely need to include a further depth into my explanations. I could feasibly provide multiple routes for questioning throughout the duration of my sentences, which would leave the listener with more interest in the subject. On the other hand, I could. . .'

As Ren got lost in his thoughts, the two girls carried on with their conversation, both throwing out ideas on what they imagined initiation to be like. It wasn't long before most of the students had already boarded the Bullhead. Only a small amount, including the trio, remained outside to either load their belongings in the airship, or say a few goodbyes to family and friends.

"Yo!"

Finally, just as the last few students got on, Yang appeared. Her sprint slowed to a jog as she got closer to them. She gave the two new faces a curious, and slightly surprised, look.

"Who's your new friends?"

"Oh, this is-"

"Hi! I'm Nora! It's nice to meet you Ruby's sister!" Nora cut in excitedly, appearing in her face in a way not unlike how she did with Ruby.

"Nora," Ren admonished. "That was rude."

"Sorry, Ren!"

"Any who," he sighed. "My name is Lie Ren, and this is Nora Valkyrie. We've been talking with your sister during our wait for your arrival and I believe we have become good friends in this short period of time. I hope that, with time, we could all perhaps become a group a wonderful comrades that all work towards the betterment of our future."

'Perfect!'

". . ."

". . ."

". . ."

"It's nice to meet ya, Nora!" Yang said, throwing an arm around the girl's shoulder. "So, how'd you manage to get the little red turtle out of her shell?"

'Ignored!'

"Aw, it wasn't that hard." Nora said, "I just accidentally scared her into trying to kick me is all!"

"I see," she nodded sagely, "So the trick is to make her attack you so that she'll apologize profusely, which basically forces her to talk to you."

". . . That was a little too well analyzed, sis." Ruby noted, Nora nodding alongside her. "I didn't think you had it in ya."

"Hey, I'm smart!" Yang pouted. "Sometimes," she finished with a murmur.

"We heard that."

"Shut up!"

"Uh, guys?"

"Yes, Ren?" Nora asked, appearing at his side.

"Perhaps we should get on the Bullhead," he suggested. "You know, before it leaves us behind."

Sure enough the group was of the last remaining outside, the rest of the students having been boarded. A loan flight attendant stood at the ramp way, staring at them impatiently.

"Er, right." Yang said sheepishly, a small blush of embarrassment adorning her cheeks. "Let's go guys."

"And we're off!" Nora exclaimed as she grabbed Ren by the arm and dragged him to the ship. Ruby and Yang exchanged amused glances before following the duo. It wasn't long after the group entered the airship that Nora promptly dragged Ren off to do some exploring, leaving the two sisters to their own devices.

"So~" Yang drawled, as they entered the Bullhead. She walked over to stand by the window with Ruby trailing behind her. "Your friends are. . . interesting?"

"Hey!" Ruby pouted. "At least I made some."

"After attacking them."

"That's besides the point!"

Yang just laughed and threw her arm around the younger girl. "I'm just glad you managed to make some before we made it to Beacon," she grinned. "I was planning on ditching you when we got there to force you into talking to someone."

". . . Really?" Ruby deadpanned.

"Yup!" she claimed without a hint of shame. "Though if I had known that all it takes is a bit of a scare, then I would've arranged for something else instead."

"Yang~" Ruby complained. "They really did startle me! I couldn't sense them at all when they were behind me!"

"Eh, really?" Yang actually looked surprised. "That's rare. Not a lot of people are able to sneak up on you."

"I know!"

"Hm," she pondered, "Beacon may be more interesting then I thought." A wicked grin crossed her lips. "I'm gonna have a lot of fun climbing my way to the top.

"Thought it is pretty surprising that Headmaster Ozpin decided to let you in early," Yang noted. "But you're definitely gonna be the bee's knees!"

"Eh?" Ruby whined, "But I don't want to have the bee's knees! I want to be a normal girl with normal knees!"

Yang went to reply but paused when she noticed she had lost her sister's attention. She was instead focused on a news report playing near the back wall.

*Police are still searching for notorious criminal Roman Torchwick who is still on the loose. If you have any information regarding please do not hesitate to contact Vale authorities.*

"Hey, that's the guy that I caught robbing the dust shop." Ruby pointed out. The screen transitioned to a silver haired news reporter. She spoke,

*This is Lisa Lavender reporting for the Vale News Network. A few days ago a group of protesters held a faunus rights rally that turned dark as the White Fang interrupted the protest attacking humans and even some faunus who support the movement. Over ten faunus alongside five humans were injured, however there weren't any casualties reported-*

The broadcast was interrupted by the appearance of a familiar blond woman with glasses.

*Hello and welcome to Beacon.*

"Hey, it's Miss Goodwitch." Ruby pointed out.

"I wonder what this is for."

"Probably just a small introduction before we land."

"Ah, makes sense."

*My name is Glynda Goodwitch. You are among a privileged few who received the honor of being selected to attend this prestigious academy. Our world is experiencing an incredible time of peace, and as future huntsmen and huntresses, it is our duty to uphold it. You have demonstrated the courage needed for such a task, and now it is our turn to provide you the knowledge and training to protect our world.*

With her speech being finished, the holographic professor blinked out of existence.

"Huh," Yang scratched her head. "That was pretty inspiring."

"Yeah~" Ruby sighed longingly. "I can't wait until I'm a full fledged Huntress."

"You got a few years before that happens, little sis." The blonde pointed out.

"I know," she replied, nonplussed. "But I'm gonna use those years to become the best Huntress that I can be. Headmaster Ozpin already gave the opportunity to start my dream early, so I'll have to honor him by doing nothing less than my best."

"Oh~ my baby sister is all grown up!" Yang 'cried' as she pulled the girl into a bear hug.

"Yang~" Ruby squirmed in her grasp, blushing in embarrassment. "Lemme go!"

"Never!"

"Group hug!" Another set of arms wrapped around the both of them and lifted the two into the air.

"Ack!"

"Ugh!" The sisters grunted in surprise at the suddenness and strength of the girl.

"Nora," Ren scolded, also appearing next to them. "You're squeezing them too much."

"Nah~ They're fine!" she dismissed his claim. "Right guys?"

"Can't. . . breathe!"

"My. . . b-back!"

"Nora."

"Fine!" She dropped them reluctantly. The two dropped to the ground, gasping for breath.

"I thought I was gonna die," Yang breathes heavily.

"I could see the light," Ruby agreed, placing a hand on her heaving chest.

"Oh, you'll be fine~" Nora waved them off. "Ren doesn't die from my hugs, so you won't either!" She received a trio of deadpan stares from the rest. "What?"

". . . Nothing," Yang sighed and looked out the window. "Hey, looks like we're here already."

"She's right, Renny! Look! It's really pretty, almost like a castle! Do you think they'll let me be queen? Ooh~ or maybe I can climb to the top of it like that one big monkey we saw in that movie!"

"It was an ape, Nora."

"Same difference!"

Despite the rather odd additions from the exuberant girl, she was correct in part of her description. Beacon was breathtaking. The school was situated just before an impressive cliff's edge that overlooked the city across the sound. As they came closer to the docking stations, more details came into view. A wide avenue leading up to what appeared to be the main academy buildings and their large, impressive main doorway standing at the forefront, just after a large statue and fountain of a Huntsman and Huntress standing atop a rock, beneath which a Beowolf lay cowering.

However, what stood out the most was the large tower in the center of all the academic buildings. The tower was surmounted by a number of green spheres of light as well as an intricate clockwork mechanism consisting of many interlocking cogs and gears. The design, odd as it initially may seem, made for quite the sight.

"So, this is it, huh?" Ruby said, a strange feeling settling in her chest. The rest, even Nora, fell silent as they caught the mood as well.

"Yeah, this is it." said Yang. Her fists clenched at her sides as her violet orbs flashed with endless amounts of confidence, alongside a trace amount of nerves. "This is where our real journey starts."

XxXxX

"So, what happened to all that seriousness earlier?" Yang's face was set in a deadpan as she watched her sister bounce around outside the Bullhead.

Some of the students walking by caught had caught the younger girl's attention indefinitely as she stared at the assortment of weapons they all possessed, and that was enough for her to enter a blissful state of glee. She couldn't help it. Weapons were her passion, everything from the classics to the latest models. It was why she had been inspired to build her baby Crescent Rose in the first place.

"Oh~ that boy has a collapsible staff!" She fawned as she bounced between other students, faster then what most of them could see. "And she has a fire sword!"

"Calm down a bit Ruby," Yang sighed as caught the girl by her hood. "You're getting a little too excited."

"Hehe, oops." Ruby laughed sheepishly, rubbing the back of her head.

"Besides, they're just weapons."

"Just weapons!" Ruby spoke indignantly. "Weapons are an extension of ourselves. They are a part of us!" She brought her hands together as she had another moment. "Oh~ they're so cool."

"Well, why can't you use your own weapon? Aren't you happy with it?"

Ruby extended her scythe, startling many who had been looking their way at the time, and cradled it lovingly. "Of course I'm happy with Crescent Rose. I just really like seeing new ones. It's like meeting new people, but better."

"I resent that statement," Nora cut in. "I am definitely better company than a weapon!"

"Ah, I didn't mean anything bad by it!" Ruby corrected. "It's just easier for me to deal with weapons then people."

"Oh~ okay! Got it!" Nora gave her a thumbs up. "You're just too awkward to talk to actual people so focus on inanimate objects instead!"

"That was. . . incredibly accurate," Yang glanced at Ren, who shrugged.

"She has her moments."

"Hey! A butterfly!"

"They're usually pretty short." Ren deadpanned. Ruby giggled at the display, even as the orange haired girl's words echoed in her head.

"Well, lets get to the Auditorium. We don't want to miss the opening speech." Yang suggested deciding to drop the subject, something Ruby agreed all too much with.

"Right!" she cheered, already marching in the right direction with an arm raised and her eyes closed. "Lets go!" The group moved forward, somehow being led by the girl, whom of which still has yet to open her eyes.

"Ah, Ruby! You might wanna-"

"Oof!"

". . . Never mind." Yang groaned at the scene.

Walking blindly is never a good idea, but Ruby was still too deep in thought to think so otherwise. This, of course, led into her running into something, or rather someone in this case. She hit the object nose first, causing her to flinch back out of reflex. 'Who put that wall there?' Ruby thought indigently as she lost her footing and began to fall back. 'Ah, it's over for me.' Though it wouldn't really be painful, falling in such a fashion was rather humiliating for a Huntress in training. She'll never be able to live it down.

"Woah there," a hand grasped her own and halted her journey to the pavement. "You okay?"

Ruby's eyes snapped open in surprise and looked up at her savior, meeting a pair of expressive blue eyes. "Oh, uh, thank you." she said, accepting the strong pull back to her feet.

"Not a problem, Miss. . ."

"Rose. My name is Ruby Rose."

"Right," he said giving her a lopsided grin. "It wasn't a problem, Ruby. Can't have a bad fall on the first day, right?"

"Uh, huh," she replied with a grin of her own. "Thanks again for the save. That would've been embarrassing."

"I'm sure." he agreed. "But what were you doing walking around blindly like that?"

"Oh, uh, that?" she stammered a bit. "That was a. . . training exercise! Yeah, a training exercise!"

"A training exercise?"

"Yup!"

"What were you training?"

"My, uh, other senses!"

"I see. Which sense were you working on?"

"Um. . . my nose!"

"Is that so? Does that mean you couldn't smell me in your way?"

"Eh? Oh, of course I could! I was just, er, testing your reflexes!"

"Hm~ did I pass?"

"With flying colors!"

"That's a relief." The two smiled at one another, amusement gleaming in their eyes.

Yang watched over the small exchange with a small amount of suspicion. It was a rather odd sight for the girl. Usually, due to her social ineptitude and own shyness stacked on top of it, Ruby would take an abnormal amount of time to warm up to someone outside of their family, but here she was talking to this random boy like they had known each other their whole lives.

'Though he is rather handsome, in a roguish sense I guess.' She admitted to herself, as she subtly checked him out. His messy blonde hair hung down to the nape of his neck, with bangs framing a strong jaw and ocean blue eyes gleaming beneath a few of the golden locks. A slightly baggy, black bodysuit, opened a bit at the chest, disappeared into brown leather boots that were neatly folded at the top. Over the top of this was an open, white, high collared, long sleeved coat with a few golden buttons adorning the shoulders and down the front. The black cord of a necklace, or some other accessory, could be seen wrapped around his neck and extended further beneath his clothing, out of sight. All in all, the outfit was rather simple, but seemed to fit the boy's style and demeanor perfectly.

"Can you show me your sword?" Yang did a double take when she heard that, but relaxed when she remembered that it was Ruby who had asked.

"Sure, it's not much though." he shrugged as he unsheathed the blade that was strapped to his back. "Just a simple sword."

Sure enough, what he revealed to them was rather plain in design. Just a short, double-edged, steel blade attached a white cross-guard, hilt, and pommel. The only thing noteworthy of the blade was the small flower on the hilt that looked to be carved into it by hand.

"So. . . It doesn't have a foldable frame?" Ruby asked he sheathed the blade.

"Nope," he replied cheerily. "It's just a simple sword. No transformation or dust, just the blade. Pretty lame, huh?"

"Eh!?" Ruby exclaimed. "No way! That's actually really unique! Not many people can appreciate the simple stuff. I mean, even I have this." She grabbed Crescent Rose from its holster on her back and fully extended it into its scythe variation.

The boy raised a brow. "A scythe wielder? You don't see a lot of those, especially with one so big. It takes a lot of strength and skill to be able to efficiently handle one that large." he analyzed. He then gave her an impressed grin and a cheesy thumbs up. "You're actually really cool, Ruby."

"Daw~" her face burned as she toed the ground, a small smile on her face. "I'm not that great."

"I beg to differ," he smirked. "But that's up for you to decide. Anyways, I gotta go talk to someone before it gets too late. I'll probably see you later?"

"Er, yeah! Of course! I'll talk to you some other time, uh. . ." Ruby paused, slightly embarrassed when she realized she never got his name.

The boy had already turned and started walking off, but twisted his head to look back at her when he heard the pause. "My name is Jaune." he met her eyes over his shoulder. "It was nice to meet ya, Ruby." he said, leaving with a wave.

"It was nice seeing you as well, Jaune." She watched him walk away, her lips upturned in a small grin as she absently folded Crescent Rose and placed it back in its holster.

"So~" Ruby promptly jumped out of her skin when Nora appeared by her side. "Who was that guy? You seemed like you knew him pretty well. Oh! Did you go to school with him? Was he, like, your best friend or something? Ooh~ was he your boyfriend~?"

"W-What!?" Ruby yelped and rounded on Nora, in shock at her accusations. Steam plumed at the top of her head as her face took on her namesake. "I just met him!"

"But you didn't deny it~"

"He's not my boyfriend! Tell her, Yang!" Ruby whined.

Yang, having decided to push away her suspicions for the moment since the boy didn't seem to have any bad intentions, smirked and threw an arm around her little sister. "My, my, Ruby. I had no idea you were interested in older guys! Is that why you never brought one home?"

"Gah!" Ruby exclaimed, throwing off the arm around her and hopping back away from the two. "I know what you guys are trying to do and it won't work! I won't fall for your- Woah!"

". . . Seriously?" Yang sighed as she watched the younger girl fall over someone's luggage. "Hopefully whoever this belongs to won't be too upset-"

"What do you think you are doing!?"

". . . You jinxed it."

"Shut it, Nora."

XxXxX

"It's almost time, Ozpin." The man looked up from the files in his hand as a blonde woman approached him. She walked over to him from the elevator, heels clicking on the floor of his office, and gave him a disapproving stare. "If you wait any longer you'll be late for your speech. That man is clearly not coming and we have our own duties to attend to."

Ozpin didn't speak for a moment. He sat down the files in his hands and picked up his mug. Leaning back, he took a long sip of the bitter coffee before letting out a sigh. "He's already here, Glynda."

"Wha-"

"Always the perceptive one, aren't ya Ozzy?"

Her emerald eyes widening was the only indication she gave at her surprise. Quickly recomposing herself, Glynda nudged her glasses back into place as she cleared her throat. "I see you haven't changed at all, Mister Jaune."

"Ah," the young man sighed. "I thought I told you to just call me Jaune, Glyn?"

"Yes, well, with your new position I believe that a change in the way I address you should be necessary."

"Eh?" he groaned. "But I haven't even accepted yet."

Glynda raised a brow, "Surely you jest? Why else would you be here?"

"I-"

"He wanted further reason on why he should come." Ozpin cut in. "Reasons I couldn't provide through an easily traced call."

Jaune let loose a cheeky grin. "What he said."

"I see." Glynda said, closing her eyes as she thought about it. "If you had tried to tell him over a scroll, then it is possible the information could have been intercepted and used for less savory objectives."

"Accurate as ever, Glynda. Now then," Ozpin took another sip from his mug before setting it down and folding his hands under his chin. "I'm sure you've met Miss Rose already?"

Jaune gave him a skeptical look. "If that's your approach Ozzy, then you'll find me a little harder to bargain with than you think."

Ozpin shook his head. "No, it was merely a question that leads into what I wish to discuss with you today."

"Well, cut straight to it then. I don't want to deal with any of your misleading squandering right now." he stated plainly.

The headmaster of Beacon merely closed his eyes and nodded. "Very well," he agreed. "She is on the move."

Carefree blue orbs turned to steel in an instant. "Already? I thought we had had more time than that."

Ozpin shook his head. "It would seem that is not the case. I can already feel the shifts in the air. Her first goal will more than likely be to remove the seal. She'll have powerful support with her to go after the Relics, should she succeed."

"Then that's where she'll be forever stuck." Jaune proclaimed. "She's not getting the key, not without me."

"I'm well aware." he said amiably. "But as a precaution I would like to keep you as close as possible. You are not as strong as you once were."

"Tch," the blonde scoffed. "And who's fault is that?"

"It was a necessity." Ozpin said simply.

"I know," he sighed as he ran a hand through his hair. "But why a student? Why can't I just take the role I had last time?"

"Well that would be less interesting a second time, would it not?"

Jaune rolled his eyes. "You and your damn sense of humor, Ozzy. Fine, I'll play along. But if I feel like my presence is a severe threat to this school, then I am leaving immediately."

"My, my," Ozpin smirked. "I didn't know you cared so much for my academy."

"I don't," he shot back bluntly. "I only care for the ones attending it. Anything that could harm this place is a danger to them. I will not allow that to happen."

For a moment, all that could be heard was the ticking of the many clocks in the office as the two men stared each other down. Glynda watched the exchange with a small amount of trepidation. Finally, Ozpin stood up from his seat, grabbing his mug and cane as he did so.

"Very well," he inclined his head. "I find these terms acceptable. Do you plan on attending the introductory speech in the auditorium, or will you go straight to the ballroom?"

"That depends Ozzy," Jaune smirked. "Are you still recycling speeches?"

"If you've had to do this as many times as I, then you would find yourself reusing material as well." Ozpin stated with a small eye roll. "Now, we must get going."

"Right, right," he waved the man off. "Go inspire the masses."

"But of course," Ozpin walked to the elevator with Glynda in tow. "Oh, and Jaune," he said, hitting a button to close the door of the lift. "I believe it's time to gather the Sins." The two disappeared as the door slid shut, taking the journey down to the auditorium.

". . . You could've waited for me to get on the elevator with you, ya old fart."

XxXxX

"You know we could've taken him down with us?"

"Yes," he took a sip of his coffee. "But that would've been less amusing."

XxXxX

Ruby sighed in relief as they entered the auditorium at last. "We made it!"

"No thanks to you, Miss Klutz." Yang snorted.

"Bleh!" Ruby retorted with the rather mature response of sticking out her tongue.

"That Sneeze girl wasn't very nice, huh?" Nora put in. "I wonder why she was so upset." she gasped suddenly. "What if someone ruined her pancakes this morning!? That could be why! I know I would be moody if someone ruined our pancakes. Oh! Maybe we should make her some better ones! If we do, she won't be so prickly and go right back to normal!"

Yang and Ruby stared at the girl in disbelief, while Ren simply sighed. "Nora," he tried. "I don't think a bad breakfast had anything to do with her attitude."

"Well~ it could,"

"Nora."

"Fine!" she pouted and looked away while muttering, "I still think it's possible though."

"Right~" Yang drawled. "Anyways, I think we should find a spot to-"

The lights flicked off-

"Or~ not,"

-and a spotlight pointed towards the stage. Ozpin stepped forwards, flanked by Glynda Goodwitch as everyone in attendance quieted down to hear the man speak.

"I'll keep this brief." he started, his voice echoing throughout the room. "You have traveled here today in search of knowledge. To hone your craft and to acquire new skills. And when you've finished, you plan to dedicate your life to the protection of the people."

Everyone listening stood a bit straighter, but his next words stopped them cold. "But I look amongst you, and all I see is wasted energy. Wasted energy in need of purpose, direction. You assume knowledge will free you of this. But your time at this school will prove that knowledge can only carry you so far. It is up to you, to take the first step."

Finished, the headmaster stepped away from the microphone and walked off stage leaving Professor Goodwitch to speak next. "You will all gather into the ballroom tonight. Tomorrow your initiation begins. Be ready. You are dismissed."

"He seemed. . . off?" Yang noted.

Ruby nodded absently. The speech was a good one, it had made the more eager students focus more on what they can get from the academy in a realistic way. But his tone felt wrong, almost like he was separated from the present.

Well, it was something to contemplate later. At the moment, she needed to find a free locker and try and find out if her dad managed to get everything sent to them. After all, it wouldn't be very comfortable to sleep in her combat clothes.

Fortunately, neither task was very difficult. They all managed to find open lockers pretty easily, ironically discovering a set of four in a row so the group was able to all store their weapons in the same area, and the sisters were able to retrieve their luggage without any problems. It wasn't too long before they were all changed and in the ballroom standing a little off from the center.

"I call this spot!" Nora exclaimed, belly flopping onto the floor. Yang and Ruby winced at the breath of air she released as she hit the floor while Ren sighed, exasperated. "Bad idea, ugh!"

"I guess this is as good a spot as any." Yang decided, unrolling her sleeping bag and taking a seat on it. The rest followed after her example and did the same.

"It's like one big slumber party!" Seeming to have recovered, Nora rolled onto her back and threw her arms up.

"I like the way you think." Yang gave her a thumbs up.

"I don't think dad would like that there's so many boys though." Ruby pointed out, looking a little uncomfortable at all the guys standing around and flexing without a shirt.

"I know I do," Yang laughed at the look the younger girl sent her. "What? I'm only looking. I'm surprised you haven't taken one at Jaune yet. He's standing right there, isn't he?"

"Wha- Yang!?" The girl's face flushed in embarrassment. "And no he's not! He's laying down right over there!" she pointed over to a corner, where the blonde in mention was on his back with his coat off and folded behind his head as a makeshift pillow.

"Oh?" Yang smirked, "So you're already keeping tabs on your boyfriend?"

"Yang!"

"Ooh~ I smell gossip~" Nora leaned in eagerly. "What's this about a boyfriend? Was I right about that blonde guy from earlier?"

"No!" Ruby yelped, her embarrassment mounting. "Yang's just being obnoxious right now."

"Oh, was I now? Then why were you able to find him so fast? Were you already looking for him, perhaps?"

"Yang! Stop it!"

"Oh~ She's already keeping an eye out for him?" Nora cooed. "Such a caring girl. He's a lucky man!"

"I've always said she'd make for a good wife. I just didn't know it would've happened so quickly." Yang wiped away a faux tear. "They grow up so fast."

"Guys! Seriously, stop teasing me!"

"It's okay, sis. I understand." the blonde continued with her sniffles as she moved over and leaned on the smaller girl's shoulder. "Just remember to invite me to the wedding."

Nora moves in closer, putting her face near the shoulder that was opposite of the one Yang rested on. "Ooh, can I be one of the bridesmaids? I've always wanted to go to a bachelorette party!"

"Guh!" Ruby could only grunt as steam wafted from the top of her head and her face burned like a forest fire.

"Of course you can, Nora! I also happened to already have the perfect plan for it!" Yang cheered.

"That's great!" she said excitedly. "What do you think they'll name their kids?"

Ruby chocked on her saliva. "Wha!?"

"I don't know," the blonde pondered. "But I bet they'll be adorable. Maybe we should go ask him? He might have some good ideas!"

"Wait a sec-"

"That sounds smart! Let's go!"

"Don't-"

"Awesome! I'm right behind ya!"

"Stop!"

*CLANG!*

The sound was oddly reminiscent of metal clashing against itself. Ruby stood behind the two with both their heads in each hand, having just smashed them against one another. Unceremoniously dropping the now unconscious bodies, Ruby sighed in relief at managing to stop the problem before it could actually happen. . . and then promptly gasped in horror at her own actions.

"Oh, gosh!" she cried, waving her arms frantically. "I'm so sorry! I just- I mean- You were- Ah!" Ruby sent an uncertain glance at Ren, worried at his reaction to her outburst.

". . . At least they will be quiet now." he said simply, remaining in a meditative position in his spot. "They were disturbing those around us."

Ruby glanced around saw that he was right. Other students were watching the exchange with varying degrees of interest, most having started once witnessing the two bigger girls get knocked out so suddenly by the smaller one. Slowly, the girl regained her blush of embarrassment, but at a much lower level of intensity. She inched back until she was standing just above her sleeping back, and then promptly vanished beneath it in a flurry of movement.

Ren blinked at the sudden action and stared at the cocooned Rose for a moment before shrugging. 'Girls are weird.'

XxXxX

"Wake up, sleepyhead!" Ren groaned as Nora took a headfirst dive into his stomach. "It's morning time!"

"Nora," the long haired teen sighed as he sat up, letting the girl roll off of him. "What time is it?"

"It's time to get up, silly!" she grinned cheekily.

". . . Right," Ren got to his feet and stretched. "Might as well get ready." he glanced at the vacant spaces next to him. "Where did Yang and Ruby go?"

"I dunno," she shrugged. "They were gone when I woke up."

"Hm, well, perhaps they're early risers and have already gone ahead." Ren suggested. "We should do the same and get ready for the day. Initiation starts soon if I'm not mistaken."

Nora grinned at him. "Breakfast?"

"Breakfast." he nodded.

"Pancakes?"

". . . Pancakes."

"Yes!" Nora cheered, dashing to the doors. "To the cafeteria!"

Ren followed after the hyperactive girl, walking leisurely in comparison to her bounding leaps. She moved ahead, then skipped back and danced around him, before jumping forward again. The cafeteria wasn't very far from the ballroom so it didn't take very long for them to get there, even with the occasional distraction from Nora as she admired the decorations in the large halls.

"Hey, look!" Nora bounced on her heels. "I found them, Ren!"

They were both sitting at a table near the entrance of the lunchroom. Empty plates and cups were pushed to the side while their weapons took up a good portion of the space in front of them. Ruby had her scythe partially disassembled and seemed to be cleaning the pieces, and Yang twisted a screwdriver in one of her gauntlets.

"Indeed you have, Nora." Ren said. "Go ahead and sit down with them I'll get our food."

"You're the best, Renny!" Nora crushed him with a quick hug before dashing away. Ren let a small upwards tilt lift the corner of his mouth and walked over to where he noticed a line of people waiting.

"Hiya guys!" Nora dropped down into the seat opposite of the two.

"Hey Nora," Yang nodded, her hands still occupied. Ruby didn't look up from her task, seemingly too absorbed. The blonde noticed and took a moment to twist the tool one more time, set it down, and poke the girl in her ribs. Ruby yelped and dropped the rag in her hands, glaring at Yang. The blonde shrugged off her stare and simply pointed at the practically vibrating girl.

"Oh, Nora!" she exclaimed. "When did you get here?"

"About two, no three, seconds ago." Nora shrugged. "When did you guys get here? You had to have gotten up crazy early to get here and finish so quickly!"

The sisters exchanged a glance. "This is the time we usually get up at home." Yang explained. "Our mom always had us up early to start training and I guess it just stuck."

"Oh~" Nora nodded. "So your mom trained you?"

"Eh, kinda." Yang shrugged. "She helped with the basics, like strength and speed, but I mostly learned hand-to-hand from my dad and Ruby was taught by our Uncle on how to use a scythe."

"Uncle Qrow is the bestest!"

"That's not a word, Rubes." Yang easily ignored the tongue pointed at her.

"But why didn't your mom teach either of you how to use a weapon?" Nora questioned.

Yang shrugged, "I wasn't interested, and Ruby sucked at anything that wasn't her fists or a scythe."

"Hey," Ruby whined. "I wasn't that bad!"

"You tried to hold a sword by the blade."

Ruby grimaced. "Okay," she conceded. "But I was really young at the time."

"I was talking about last week."

". . . It was a joke?" The Rose wilted at the deadpan state she received.

"But I thought you really liked weapons or something!" Nora exclaimed, remembering the small outburst the girl had yesterday.

"Oh, she definitely does," Yang nodded. "But she can only design, create, or upgrade them."

"Wow, really?" Nora giggled.

"Yup," Yang laughed. "She may have an obsession with any and all Hunter weapons, but she can't use anything outside her own to save her life."

"Yang~" Ruby felt her ears burn in embarrassment.

"Oh~ I'm only teasing," she grinned. "No need to get so rosy about it."

". . ."

". . . I see what you meant now, Ruby." Nora stage whispered across the table.

"Now what's that supposed to mean?" Yang glared at the two of them.

"Uh~" Ruby glanced around nervously. "Oh, look! There's Ren!" she quickly diverted the blonde's attention.

Ren raised a brow at the sudden attention on himself. He sat down at the table and set a stack of pancakes in front of Nora, who was practically vibrating in excitement, and one in front of himself. "Yes?"

"Don't worry about it," Yang waved him off. Ren still looked curious but ultimately decided to let it go.

"So," he started, cutting into his pancakes. "What were you guys doing when we came in here?"

"Just some light maintenance," Yang replied.

"I was cleaning out the shifting mechanisms in Crescent Rose so it'll run smoothly for initiation." said Ruby.

"Hm, smart." Ren complimented.

"Nah," Yang shrugged. "Just common sense. Can't have our means of defense failing us in the middle of a fight, can we?" she asked rhetorically.

"True," he nodded. "Are you feeling confident about your chances today?"

"Of course!" Yang flexed confidently. "There's no way we'd fail, right Rubes?"

"Huh? Oh, yeah, right." Ruby nodded absently. She glanced at the cafeteria doors for a moment before standing up. "I'll. . . be back in a sec."

"Where are you going?" Yang asked. Ruby picked up the parts to Crescent Rose and reassembled it in a few seconds before placing it in her holster.

"Uh," she hesitated briefly. "Just going to. . . make sure I didn't leave anything in the ballroom! Yeah, that's it! See you later!"

Yang raised an eyebrow as she watched her sister run off. "That was odd."

"Maybe she forgot something?" Nora suggested, sitting down with another stack of pancakes.

". . . When did you leave?"

Nora grinned and proceeded to swallow a pancake whole. "Don't worry about it!"

XxXxX

Ruby slowed to a walk after leaving the cafeteria. She sighed and scratched the back of her head. "Why am I acting so secretive?" she murmured to herself. "I just wanted to see if he was awake yet."

'Then again, if Yang knew I wanted to check up on a boy she would never let me hear the end of it.' An image of the blonde she met yesterday appeared in her mind's eye. He had still been sleeping when she had gotten up that morning and she wanted to make sure he didn't oversleep for initiation. She wasn't sure where the concern had risen from, but chalked it up to worry for a friend.

Her internal debate ended as she pushed open the doors to the ballroom. She looked around the area, spotting a few students who were still getting up and getting their things together. Finally she saw him, still laying in the same spot as before, completely relaxed in his slumber.

She grinned and made her way over to him, avoiding walking into any of the drowsy students still trying to get up. Reaching him, she crouched down at his side and extended an arm out to shake his shoulder.

"Hey, Jaune." she said softly. "It's time to get up."

The blonde stirred a bit, shifting at the movement as well as her voice. A hint of blue appeared as his eyelids opened slowly. "Huh?" he murmured. His gaze moved around the room lazily before landing on her face. "S- Ruby?"

"Hey there," she smiled brightly. "Did you sleep well?"

"Hm," Jaune brought a hand to his face and rubbed at his eyes. "Can't say it was bad." He glanced in her direction again. "You know I can see up your skirt from here, right?"

"Wha-" Ruby yelped and fell back, pushing down the front end of of her skirt. "Why are you looking!?"

"Sorry, sorry," Jaune laughed, putting up his hands placatingly. "I just couldn't resist. You were right in front of me, after all."

"Hmph," Ruby huffed, still red. "Pervert."

Jaune smirked and stood up. He reached down, offering a hand. "Hey now. There's no need for name calling."

"I'm just calling it how I see it," She grabbed his hand and allowed herself to be pulled to her feet.

"My poor heart," Jaune said dully.

Ruby giggled, "I think you'll live."

"I don't think I will," he said, grasping at his chest. "Your words cut deep, ya know." Jaune grinned cheekily at her exaggerated eye roll. He reached down and snagged his coat, slipping it on as he straightened back up.

"When did you grab your sword?" she asked curiously.

"I've always had it," he replied simply. He started walking in the direction he knew the lockers to be, Ruby right behind him.

"But you were supposed to put it up before going to the ballroom." Ruby said disapprovingly.

Jaune shrugged, "What they won't know won't hurt them. Besides, I never go anywhere without it."

"Huh, why not?" She slipped in front of him and started walking backwards with her hands clasped behind her back and a small tilt of her body in his direction.

"Now that," he reached out and tapped her nose. "Is a secret!"

Ruby paused for a moment in surprise, allowing Jaune to pass by her again. She quickly shook it off and ran after him. "Hey, wait a second! What does that mean?"

XxXxX

"Come on," Ruby whined, tugging on Jaune's sleeve as they entered the locker room. "Tell me!"

"Nope."

"Tell me!"

"No way."

"Come on~"

"Not a chance."

"Pretty please?"

"Not happening."

"With a cherry on top?"

"No."

Ruby puffed out her cheeks, failing to get the answer she wanted. She was sure that last one would work! "I'll get you to tell me eventually!" she swore.

"Hm, maybe." Jaune replied amiably. He came to a stop in front of an locker that didn't seem to be in use. Pulling out his scroll, he tapped it against the key pad and waited for it to synch.

"If you're not going use a locker, then why bother getting one?" Ruby asked.

"That's because you can launch these to wherever you are outside of Beacon and return them back whenever you please. It might come in handy one day." he explained.

"What, are you going to try riding one of these things?" she asked incredulously.

He shrugged and pocketed his scroll once it finished, "Possibly. You never know when it might come in handy."

"Uh, huh. I'll believe it when I see it." Ruby deadpanned.

Jaune grinned, "I'll make you eat those words."

Ruby scoffed and rolled her silver eyes playfully. She went to give a retort but was cut off by another voice calling out behind her. "Ruby!"

"Oh, boy." she groaned. She turned around with an awkward grin. "Hey, Yang."

"So, this is what you were up to!" Yang exclaimed, throwing an arm around the smaller girl. "If you wanted to sneak off and meet your boyfriend, all you had to do is say so!"

"That's not-"

"Oh, don't be so shy about it!" Yang cut her off. She aimed a mock glare at the bemused Jaune. "You better not be doing anything I would do, mister."

"What does that even mean?" Ruby questioned exasperatedly.

"And what exactly should I not be doing?" Jaune asked, playing along. He easily ignored Ruby's betrayed stare.

"Well~" Yang pretended to contemplate. "Definitely no sex before the first date."

"What about after?"

The blonde blinked, not expecting such a calm and quick retort. "Then. . . that's up to her, I guess."

"Are we really talking about this right now?!" Ruby, having enough of it, jumped between the two. She tried to give the two of them an angry glare, but it was ruined by the embarrassed blush that had flared across her cheeks.

"Now, now," Jaune placated, an easygoing grin fitting into place. "Don't take it so seriously. We were just joking."

"Yeah, come on Rubes," Yang slung an arm over the smaller girl's shoulders. "I was only playing with ya."

The brunette pouted, the blush fading away. "Don't joke about stuff like that."

"Awe~ come on. You know I can't do that. Your reactions are just too adorable!"

"I agree." Jaune said, putting in his own two-cents.

The heat promptly returned to Ruby's face as she threw her arms into the air in exasperation, also pushing her sister's arm off her in the process. "You guys are impossible!" she shouted, stomping away.

Yang followed after her, shooting her fellow blonde a mischievous grin as they left. "You know, leaving like this only proves my point!"

"Not listening!"

"Now you're throwing a tantrum. That's so cute!"

"Lalalalala! I can't hear you!"

"That. . . That's just immature."

"Lalalala!"

XxXxX

Ruby took a deep breath, trying her best to calm her nerves. She glanced around at all of her fellow Beacon initiates standing in a line beside her, each of them on their own circular pad. She idly wondered what they were for.

"All of you have honed your skills for years, and I would like to put to rest the rumors you may have heard about teams." Glynda spoke up, gathering the students attention. "You will be receiving your partners. . . today."

Ozpin then said his part, "These teammates will be with you for the rest of your time here at Beacon. So it is in your best interest to be paired with someone whom you can work well with."

Ruby slowly became overwhelmed at the information being dumped on her as multiple scenarios came to mind. 'Oh, man. I hope I get someone who's nice.'

"That being said," Ozpin continued, "The first person you make eye contact with after landing will be your partner for the next four years."

'. . . What?!'

"After you've partnered up, make your way to the northern end of the forest." the headmaster carried on, ignorant of Ruby's growing dismay. "You will meet opposition along the way. Do not hesitate to destroy everything in your path or you will die. You will be monitored and graded for the duration of your initiation, but our instructors will not intervene. You will find an abandoned temple at the end of the path containing various relics. Each pair must chose one, and return to the top of the cliff. We will regard that item, as well as your standing, and grade you appropriately. Are there any questions?"

The students were silent, processing the information dump that was dropped on them. Ozpin took this as a sign that they were ready.

"Good! Now, take your positions." he ordered.

Each of the potential Beacon students shifted their weapons into a ready position. Then, the first student was launched via the catapult. This was soon followed by the next one, and continued down the line until all of the teens were airborne above Emerald Forest.

The initiation had begun.

End