Jaune Xiao-Long

Yes, I did it! Jaune Xiao-Long's fifth chapter! Lets not waste time please enjoy.


Chapter 5 – Beacon

Beacon was many things, extraordinary, a feat of Vale history and a spectacle to see, for any first time visitors the sight of the school alone would be one all encompassing moment that held their complete attention… Except for three. Yang and ruby rushed out in a tornado of yellow and red the little reaper not daring to leave her sister behind from the threat.

No sooner did said trouble emerge like a Ravager out of the dark brother's realm as their brother shot towards the nearest trashcan like it was a oasis in Vacuo and he'd been parched for weeks. Hugging it with all he had the metal subtly warped from his strength as he leaned into it and unloaded the contents of his stomach into the poor bin.

Not fair off Yang groaned as she looked to her shoes ruined by her brothers toxic level upchuck, with a sigh she turned on him glaring before reaching into her pocket for a rag she used to shine Ember Celica.

"Oh, I'm getting you back for this bro, count on it." Jaune however didn't hear her swear for justified vengeance as he still unloaded into the garbage bin sounding like he was a foot in the grave.

"Jaune you okay."

"Agh! Oh Oum why!? Why did it have to be a bullhead- Ugh…" She really tried to stifle her laughter but Jaune really wasn't making it easy.

"Whoa bro tone it down, otherwise I might have to start calling you Vomit Boy." Shooting her a light glare he groaned, it was only then Yang noticed Ruby wasn't there patting Jaune's back trying to reassure him. It was odd, after all Ruby took every chance she could to cling to Jaune so why not now? All too soon she got her answer when she saw the crimson reapette practically on cloud nine as she looked to the many weapons settled on the new students entering her yes practically stars.

"Oh my gosh, sis! That guy's got a collapsible staff! And she's got a fire sword!"

Slowly Ruby made her way to the nearest one a multi-purpose Dust rifle/ spear combo but felt Yang grip her by the hood.

"Easy their sis. They're just weapons, nothing special either by what I can see."

"Nothing special! Just weapons! They're an extension of ourselves! They're a part of us! Oh, they're so cool!"

"Well, why can't you swoon over your own weapon? Aren't you happy with it?" The way Ruby looked at her you'd think she'd just stolen her crush. Finally free from his tyrannical weakness Jaune chuckled.

"Yang have you met our sis, Rubes is awkward, and that's me saying that. She has a hard time making friends." Yang shot him a flat stare as she folded her arms.

"And I wondered who enabled her, maybe someone who constantly acts more like a clingy boyfriend instead of a big brother." Now it was Jaune's turn to give her a deadpan.

"Seriously, Yang don't even joke about that…" Ruby visibly frowned before Jaune rubbed her head shooting a playful smile.

"With how cute our lil bud here is she could do loads better than a guy like me." Said reaper blushed and out of embarrassment rushed off, Jaune looked to her fleeing form surprised.

"Was it something I said?" Yang herself shook her head sighing.

"Oum above Jaune your dense… Well go get sis I have some pals to catch up with kay." Jaune looked her way.

"Y'know I get you wanna get Rubes to make friends so you don't have to put up an act with me sis, after all we both know you're not exactly close to those guys." Yang blushed at being found out, Jaune never missed a thing dumb older brother.

"Whatever, just make sure she doesn't go and do anything too bad, I'm gonna explore a bit, don't wanna steal her new friends." Jaune shook his head, it was true after all, a good amount of Ruby's old friends had used her to get close to Yang… still.

"I'll keep an eye on her, so meet up with us in the auditorium kay." Yang waved back.

"Now where did you go…?"

'Bang!'

"'Sigh'… yeah, that seems about right." Knowing his sister he turned towards the explosion.


"Unbelievable! 'cough' This is exactly the kind of thing I was talking about! 'cough'" Ruby looked to her current tormentor, a very pale and mean girl who'd she'd bumped into and hadn't stopped yelling like it was going out of style. Embarrassed she begun to make an apology only to be cut off by the icy girl.

"Ugh, you complete dolt! What are you even doing here? Aren't you a little young to be attending Beacon?"

"Well, I-I..."

"This isn't your ordinary combat school. It's not just sparring and practice, you know! We're here to fight Grimm, so watch where you're going!" Ruby felt something snap, she never considered herself a angry person but she was Yang's sister after all.

"Hey, I said I wa-"

"Well now isn't that a way to act ice princess…" Before she could finish a familiar form stepped in front of her currently looking down on the white haired girl. Said girl looked up finding a boy looking to her with very unamused eyes, arms crossed.

"Excuse me, what did you just call me!"

"Oh, what Ice Princess, yeah well… I mean I probably would've called you Snow Angel with how pretty you are but honestly with that attitude I think Ice Princess is a much better fit, wouldn't you agree?" Ruby snickered at least until she realized.

Wait, he thinks she's pretty!

Weiss herself glared up at him.

"Listen you-!"

"Jaune."

"Don't cut me off! Do you have any idea who I am!?"

"Well duh…"

"Well then, you know exactly how-"

"A very rude girl whose picking on my little sis…" The way the girl glared Ruby wouldn't be surprised if Jaune was suddenly frozen solid and yet he weathered the storm against her artic glare.

"My name, is Weiss Schnee! Do you understand now you Dolt!?" Jaune nodded.

"Schnee huh? Oh, I get it." The girl crossed her arms looking the slightest bit smug.

"Well then, now you know exactly how ba-"

"Your Atlesian then right? Whoa, guess they don't teach manners up there huh?" The girl froze again and slowly her face begun to redden with anger. Honestly she was beautiful, breathtaking even and he'd never think he'd be able to talk to such a girl… but family came first and little miss thing decided to bully Rubes which simply wouldn't fly.

"Anyways Ice princess I think it's about time you act your age instead of huffing and puffing about." A voice cut in then.

"It's heiress, actually." Turning the three spotted a golden eyed brunette with a monochromatic outfit, Ruby felt relieved as she stepped forward.

"Weiss Schnee, heiress to the Schnee Dust Company, one of the largest producers of energy propellant in the world." Weiss smiled smugly,

"Finally! Some recognition!" Jaune however merely stared at the new girl.

Wow…

The girl looked to Weiss just the tiniest hint of smugness in her own tone.

"The same company infamous for its controversial labor forces and questionable business partners." Ruby begin to snicker while Weiss fumed.

"Wha- How dare you, stop that laugher dolt! And you!" Weiss jabbed a finger into Jaune's chest slightly wincing at how her slender digit bent against the boy's chest plate. Jaune snapped out of his daze to look down at their icy menace.

"What is it Ice Queen?" Her eye twitched at the sudden rise in station but Jaune certainly didn't mind, having good looks only got you so far, especially with a personality like that.

"I will not be forgetting this you-"

"Actually its Jaune, Jaune Xiao-Long not you. but feel free to prove my point and keep to the 'you'." Her teeth gnashed as her fist balled and shook at her sides.

Whoa! She looks pissed, like Yang with I wake her with the scissors pissed.

Having enough with this she turned on her heels anger still clear in her icy orbs. Not wasting a second she nabbed the dust vial out of the new girl's hand before walking off in a huff her luggage right behind her alongside several butlers. Ruby bless her heart though called out still a bit guilty.

"I promise I'll make this up to you!" Jaune smirked as he went to rub his sister's head making a mess of her short locks.

"Heh, guess I'm not the only one with a bad day, though at least I can say my motion sickness couldn't be helped." Ruby shot him a pout but all Jaune did in response was chuckle. As if suddenly remembering her Ruby turned in the new girl's direction only to find her back as she walked away.

"'sigh' Guess she's not much of a people person huh Jaune?... Jaune?" Turning she saw her brother looking Blake's way his eyes putting in quite the effort to stare at her back instead of south of it as her hips swayed as she walked away. He whispered then, so low almost nobody would hear him.

"Absolutely Stunning…" Except for a little reaper right at his side whose eye twitched.


Yang waited within the throngs of people, a tiny bit worried. After all Rubes and Jaune still hadn't made it in and it was nearly time to start, those two sure were taking their sweet time.

Come on, seriously you two you had one thing to do!

As that depreciating thought came to mind though the doors opened once again and to her joy Ruby and Jaune entered. However to say it the two seemed off was an understatement.

"C'mon sis what did I do." Ruby huffed her arms crossed.

"I already said nothing! Now stay back mister, two meters!" Jaune groaned at the odd punishment dealt for apparently blowing chunks and embarrassing her, not noticing how before him her sister was both frustrated and red-faced as she desperately swayed her hips to emulate that golden-eyed girl who stolen her brother's attention.

Dumb Jaune.

Yang strutted to the two a smile on her face as she saw the ever standard Ruby pout that could only mean one thing.

"So bro who caught your eye this time." Jaune blushed.

"Shut it sis, I just saw a kinda pretty girl is all… How do you always know anyways?" Yang smirked towards an embarrassed Ruby.

"Well you have a pretty big tell."

Who just so happens to be crushing on you.

"Anyways, so whaddya think sis, bro? Your first day going as awesome as mine?"

"Which part? Where you abandoned Rubes or when she blew up?" Yang winced.

"Seriously, having a meltdown already?" Jaune shook his head.

"Nope just a very cold little girl." Yang looked to him.

"Okay I feel like I need some context." Cutting in ruby begun to speak.

"It's like Jaune said, I sorta… exploded, made a hole in front of the school! And there was some fire, and I think some ice...?" Yang's smile stiffened the slightest bit.

"Are you being sarcastic?" Jaune sighed.

"No… and that's the sad part."

"Right, it was terrible! I tripped over some crabby girl's luggage, and then she yelled at me, and then I sneezed, and then I exploded, and then she yelled at me again, and I felt really, really bad, and I just wanted her to stop yelling at me!"

"Man the girl was a real bitc-"

"You two!" Ruby jumped back behind Jaune who turned a bit surprised to see the heiress so soon.

"Oh look it's the return of Frosty." Weiss glared while Yang was lost.

"What's happening?"

"What did you call me!"

"Hey you said you didn't like me calling you Ice Queen right? Figured I try a new one."

"The nerve!"

"Yeah yeah, Schnee this, how dare you that, look I'm trying to have a talk with my sisters here so would you mind leaving… c'mon now, shoo." Weiss gawked at how Jaune gestured her to leave while Yang snickered. Honestly what did the girl do to get on his bad side. Jaune would usually be a blubbering mess around a girl like the icy teen which meant she had to royally fuck up to get this treatment.

"You're lucky I wasn't blown off the side of the cliff after what your sister did!" Jaune rolled his eyes.

"Yes, what a tragedy that would've been, oh how could Remnant keep on without your incessant whining." While Jaune continued to aggravate the Schnee Yang deadpanned towards Ruby.

"Good Oum, you really did explode." Ruby shot out from behind Jaune to speak.

"It was an accident! I swear, I'll do anything so please stop being all grouchy." With a narrow of the eyes Weiss acted thrusting out a pamphlet labeled 'DUST for dummies and other Inadequate Individuals'. Ruby took the pamphlet examining it while Jaune's brows knitted on the Schnee for the implied insult.

"The Schnee Dust Company is not responsible for any injuries or damages sustained while operating a SDC product. Although not mandatory, the Schnee Family highly encourages their customers to read and familiarize themselves with this easy to follow guide to Dust applications and practices in the field." Jaune rose a brow.

"Wow, guess we're ignoring the part where you're the one who left a dust vial loose huh?" The heiress shot him a glare but continued towards the dumbfounded Ruby.

"You really wanna start making things up to me?" Ruby nodded.

"More than anything?" And with that Weiss shoved the pamphlet into Ruby.

"Then, read this, and don't ever speak to me again." She turned on Jaune.

"And you, I expect an apology." Jaune chuckled for several seconds before noting Weiss's glare.

"Oh, you're serious… Nope." He made sure to pop the 'P' much to the heiress's annoyance. Finally though Yang stepped between the two teens glaring at each other.

"Look, uh, it sounds like you two just got off on the wrong foot. Why don't you start over and try to be friends, okay?" Jaune was about to very elegantly tell his twin exactly where the icy heiress could shove that idea before Ruby beat him to speak.

"Yeah! Great idea, sis!" Ruby shot forward putting out her hand towards Weiss her best awkward smile as she cleared her throat.

"Hello, Weiss! I'm Ruby! Wanna hang out? We can go shopping for school supplies!"

'pfft'

Yang elbowed him, Weiss however seemed far less amused as she spoke.

"Yeah! And we can paint our nails and try on clothes and talk about cute boys, like you brother tall, blond, and boorish!" Again she shot him a glare. He expected Ruby might not like hearing him be insulted, Yang herself looked just a tiny bit peeved at the jab and obvious sarcasm.

"H-how did you know!" Ruby face was crimson as she hid behind her hands embarrassed, how did Weiss know about her crush! Weiss herself just stared at the Rose and then back at Jaune who seemed ignorant to his sister's plight. Her nose scrunched up.

"Gross." And no sooner did she begin to turn on her heels to leave only for a microphone to turn on and the whole student body to be drawn towards the stage where the headmaster stood.

"I'll... keep this brief. You have traveled here today in search of knowledge, to hone your craft and acquire new skills, and when you have finished, you plan to dedicate your life to the protection of the people. But I look amongst you, and all I see is wasted energy, in need of purpose, direction." The students begun to whisper about, some clearly disheartened by his words while others even a tad angry.

"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…" And with that the silver fox was done making his way off the stage only for Glynda to speak up.

"You will gather in the ballroom tonight; tomorrow, your initiation begins. Be ready. You are dismissed." Yang forced a smile.

"Well… that was sorta disheartening."

Ruby nodded before looking to ask Jaune's opinion on the speech only to find.

"You will show me the respect I'm owed Rose."

"Ha, really you want me to shove your prissy butt in a locker and rocket you back to Atlas that bad." Yang sighed.

"Well looks like Jaune made a new friend." Both pairs of blue eyes turned on the brawler speaking only a single word in perfect sync to her comment.

"No!"


The first night at Beacon, students laid all across the ballroom splayed out in sleeping bags. Ruby, in her pajamas and with a sleeping mask around her head, wrote in her journal before Yang crashed next to her.

"Man this is awesome, it's like one big old slumber party." Ruby rolled her eyes never looking up from her journal.

"I don't think Dad would approve of all the boys, though." Yang's grin widened as she looked out over the ballroom spotting several men making a show of themselves flexing and strutting there stuff for any possible admirers. With a purr she spoke in a mock husky tone.

"I know I do!"

"'sigh' Down girl…" With a playful chop to the head Jaune stood in baggy yellow sports shorts and a black compress that clung to his form showing off all the delicious muscles toned to perfection beneath. Several men who were previously eyeing the brawler currently pouting and cute silver-eyed brunette clicked their tongues in jealousy upon spotting the Arc and knowing a losing battle when they saw one. More then a few girls gazes turned to the Arc which Ruby quickly pouted towards the moment she noted while simultaneously trying very hard not to lose her cool while Jaune was so exposed before her!

Dumb Jaune you can't wear stuff like that!

Noticing her gaze he turned to Ruby.

"You alright sis?" She nodded embarrassed really hoping she hadn't been caught staring… again.

"Y-yeah, I was just writing a letter to the gang back at Signal. I promised to tell them all about Beacon and how things are going." Yang cooed.

"Aw, that's so cuuute!" Ruby's retort was in the form of a aura reinforced pillow sent flying into her face.

"Shut up! I didn't get to take my friends with me to school! It's weird not knowing anyone here!" Jaune smirked.

"Geez, really feeling the love sis."

"that's not what I meant!" Jaune chuckled at her red face before patting her head.

"Don't sweat it, I didn't make any friends eithers." Yang grinned.

"What about Weisscream." Jaune looked her way with a less then amused.

"Allow me to correct myself, no friends 'and' one enemy." Ruby looked down saddened.

"Guess that makes me have one too." Jaune shook his head.

"Nah at worst she'd like a negative friend or something." Yang shook her head.

Nope, no such thing she'd just a less aggressive enemy. This time two pillows slammed into the brawler, Jaune looked to ruby more then familiar with when his sisters were in a mood.

"C'mon Rubes, don't let one bad experience ruin it for you, its our first day here after all. I mean look at this way, we've already dealt with the worst Beacon has to offer…"

A large brute of a Beacon hopeful sneezed as he polished his dust mace, he looked around finding nobody before his lackey a green mohawked boy called out to him.

"C'mon Cardin!"

"Things can only go up from here, we got friends all around us, it's just a matter of finding them is all." Yang grinned.

"Exactly." It was then Ruby spotted a candle lighting in the distance and saw a familiar face sitting there in a kimono sat comfortably with a book in hand.

"That girl..." Jaune and Yang turned to see, Jaune cheeks begun to pink at the sight of her.

"You two know her?"

"Yeah…" Yang quirked a brow at the wistful tone of her brother while Ruby tried her best to ignore it.

"Not really. She saw what happened this morning and stepped in, but left before we could say anything." Spotting Jaune's current state and knowing her sister it was too good of an opportunity to pass up. After all getting Ruby a friend and watching Jaune tank hard. Totally two birds with one stone.

"Well, now's your chance! Come on guys!"

"Wait! What are you doing?!"

"Whoa, wait what! Hold up sis I'm not ready! Is my hair okay, oh Oum my breath Rubes quick a breath mint!" The three approached the silent girl and yet from their first step she was more then aware of them. Looking up she met two familiar faces and a third dragging them her way.

"Hel-looooo! I believe you three may know each other?" She examined the two panicked teens recalling them and smiled.

"You're the man who was quarreling with the heiress and… the girl who exploded?" Jaune blushed trying very hard to speak intelligible words. Ruby on the other hand proved more competent without her brothers social Achilles of talking to the fairer sex.

"Uh, yeah! My name's Ruby!" Blake blinked once before turning back to her book.

"Okay." A brow raised Yang leaned in close.

"What are you doing?" Panicky she whispered back never noticing how the brunettes bow twitched.

"I don't know! Help me!" Forcing a smile again the two sisters spoke up.

"So… what's your name." With a sigh Blake turned to them.

"Blake." Jaune made it a point to note that.

"Well, Blake, I'm Yang, Ruby's older sister! I like your bow!" Jaune blinked looking to his apparently more socially adept twin.

"Really?" She shot him a glare before turning back to Blake. Who Jaune could tell was less then happy to be disturbed. Bad with talking to girls he might be but helping them was a whole another matter. Hands reached out grabbing Ruby's and Yang's shoulders before forcibly turning them around."

"Sis, Rubes lets head to bed." Both looked to him but before either could protest he spoke up again.

"We got Initiation tomorrow and all, so maybe we shouldn't bother someone else when their trying to relax." He really hoped they got the hint he was trying to convey through his gaze. After all though bad with women he was, knowing how to read them was another thing entirely. Tended to happen when you only had sisters who had lot of girlfriends. With his big brother flip switched talking came far easier to him and facing away from the girl certainly didn't hurt.

"Sorry about that Blake, enjoy the read, prefer the comic myself but I heard awesome things about the book." Brows raised pleased at someone familiar with 'The Man with Two Souls' but while there was the slight want to discuss the subject said blonde was currently pushing his sisters towards their sleeping bags.

"C'mon Jaune I was just starting to get on her good side!"

"'sigh' Yang even I could tell that was going badly, Ruby already gots one enemy, let's not giver her another."

"I wonder what kinda book she was reading?" Jaune shrugged.

"The Man with Two Souls."

"Oh seriously that one, snooze fest."

"Yang! What if she can still hear us."

"Nah we're fine." The bow twitching atop Blake's head said otherwise.

"Still though, I wonder if she'd ever read anything about knights and heroes… Y'know to see if that's why she became a huntress like how I want to." Jaune chuckled.

"Maybe you should've opened with that." Yang hugged Ruby.

"Aw, isn't that the cutest reason ever!"

"Yang! Stop!" No sooner then the brawler bring her sister into a hug did Ruby fight back punching and kicking about while Jaune stood on standby hoping to limit the damage to just healing the two. Or would've if someone hadn't barged forward with icy fire in they're eyes.

"What in the world is going on over here?! Don't you realize some of us are trying to sle-Oaf!" Said figure bumped into Jaune who turned, the moment their eyes met both looked less then pleased.

"Xiao-Long, of course it'd be you!" Jaune rolled his eyes.

"'sigh' Oh what a coincidence, the absolute last person I wanted to see, what were there not any puppies to kick nearby?" Weiss growled.

"Shut it! Don't you three realize the noise your making!?" Jaune crossed his arms.

"And once again you fail to see you're doing no better, its this morning all over again, right Rubes?" Ruby fidgeted about.

"Um, well we are making a lot of noise Jaune so…"

"Oh, so now you're on my side!"

"Wha? I never wasn't on your side, I apologized and everything."

"Hey yeah, what's your problem with my sis anyways!?"

"She's a hazard to my health!"

"Oh like you are to my sanity eh Frosty?"

"You!" Blake sighed seeing that she very much would not get any good reading done, she reached out for her candle blowing it out.


The next day was torture when he woke the first thing he received was no less then several hateful glares, not that he didn't get why. Yang tended to grab whatever she could while she slept and Ruby had always been excessively cuddly with him. So seeing two very pretty girls cling to him sleep without contents would surely drive any man insane.

"'yawn' Rubes, Yang, up c'mon you two…" Both girls groaned Ruby reaching out for him to snuggle up again but if he had to wake up so did they. Slowly a slight glow begun to take him as he laid a palm on both girls head before filling them with light. His aura bleed into the two kindling their souls, reinvigorating them, wiping away any traces of fatigue and leaving only energy to burn behind. Both woke knowing sleep would be an impossibility now.

"Okay okay we're up Bro… 'yawn' couldn't give us like five more minutes." With a smirk he grabbed up his hunter gear and a towel.

"Nope, be up in five and ready in fifteen." Yang rolled her eye but smiled towards him.

"Yes dad." With a chuckle he was off to the shower not noticing how Ruby casually made her way to totally not peek and his twin restrained her no matter how much she protested.

Jaune stepped out of the boys bathroom his blonde locks still somewhat moist, he passed an odd but cute couple consisting of a hyperactive ginger and a green ninja. However they came second to his current task.

"Seriously, I didn't think I put my gear in locker 636, man I must have been tired." With a sigh he soldiered on towards his goal counting up one locker at a time until…

"So, Pyrrha." He recognized that voice.

Oh for the love of…

"Have you given any thought to whose team you'd like to be on? I'm sure everyone must be eager to unite with such a strong, well-known individual such as yourself!" Pyrrha? That name sounded sorta familiar… Making his way towards the voices he found two girls talking, the ever icy Schnee and a tall leggy redhead.

"Hmm... I'm not quite sure. I was planning on letting the chips fall where they may."

"Well... I was thinking maybe we could be on a team together."

"Well, that sounds grand!"

" Great!" The Schnee girl girl may have been able to hide the smile from the innocent looking redhead but he spotted it all too soon.

"Now hold on there." Both girls turned Weiss's face immediately turning hostile upon meeting his gaze.

"You!"

"Hello."

"What do you want?!"

"Uh, to get to my locker and maybe help a fellow hunter not shoot herself in the foot."

"And what's that supposed to mean?"

"I sorta thought that was obvious, figured I'd warn the girl about you is all after all you'd end up being a 'Hazard to her health'." Weiss gawked while Jaune smirked taking admittedly way more pleasure out of the prissy heiress's reaction then he should've.

"Um, excuse me?" Jaune turned.

"Oh, my bad, where are my manner the names Jau- Wow…" the girl before him was pretty, like really pretty. If Blake was a stunning then the girl before him was gorgeous, hair like rubies and eyes a deep emerald and tall enough to meet his gaze with little trouble. He felt his cheeks pink the slightest bit.

Holy crap did it get hot all of a sudden.

"Oh… heh, h-hey."

Think Jaune think!

"Then name Juan-Jaune! Jaune Ros- I mean Xiao-Long! Yep that's me Jaune Xiao-Long!"

Oh Oum where Yang when you need her!

She smiled his way making a point to give her hand for a shake.

"Well it's nice to meet you Jaune." He nodded raising his hand trying very hard not to sweat like a pig in front of a 'very' pretty girl.

"Heh, same… miss?" the girl blinked before tilting her head.

"Do you perhaps… not know who I am?" He was about to answer before Weiss spoke up.

"Are you serious! How do you not her, this Pyrrha, Pyrrha Nikos! She's a household name in Mistral! The Regional champion four times in a row!" Jaune's eyes widened then.

"Oh, your that Pyrrha?" Said spartan looked suddenly disheartened before Jaune grinned.

"Oh man Yang's been wanting to fight you ever since seeing your first tournament match and Rubes won't shut up about your weapons and how you handle all the parts needed for a three formed weapon like uncle Qrow's." The girl blinked.

"Is that… all?" Jaune blinked before realizing her gaze was entirely on him and nervously, he rubbed the back of his head.

"Well yeah sorta… So um, gotta ask, why'd you become Pumpkin Pete's mascot, I mean Mom almost religiously kept us away from the stuff as kids. Heck I had to trade tons of stuff for enough box tops for my hoodie with other kids." Pyrrha giggled lightly, it sounded almost bell-like to him.

"Believe me if I'd had a choice in the matter I wouldn't have, unfortunately they sponsored me for my first fight so I couldn't exactly refuse." Jaune nodded before asking another question which she happily replied.

Holy crap, I'm holding a conversation with an actual girl! A gorgeous one at that!

"Excuse me!" Jaune sighed remembering they're third wheel as much as he wished he didn't.

Every party needs a pooper I guess…

"Oh almost forgot you there Frosty… guess you just couldn't help running my mood huh?" Weiss sneered while Pyrrha looked about uncomfortably.

"After knowing who she is do you really think you're in any position to talk to her?" Jaune's brow rose.

"Why wouldn't I, it's not like it's a crime after all and besides if an icy little gremlin and bother her why can't I."

"How dare yo-!"

"Hi Jaune!" Before he could even make a full turn a tornado of red petals slammed into him and he was on his back looking up to his little sister smiling back at him.

"Hi." He smiled ruffling her hair.

"Whoa sis, cool it, don't wanna break bro before we even start Initiation." With a slight smile Yang reached down to him which he was more then glad to take.

"Thanks sis, and geez Rubes you need to tone it down with the speed, felt like truck hit me." Ruby looked away embarrassed while Jaune popped his neck and back before turning back to Pyrrha and 'it'.

"Pyrrha, these are my sisters Yang and Ruby, sis, rubes this is Pyrrha."

"Oh my gosh! It really is you!" Pyrrha sighed at the sadly expected result getting ready to sigh something, hopefully not a bra this time she was straight and didn't appreciate fans of the same gender throwing themselves at her.

"Can I see Akoúo and Miló! Please!" She looked to the little reapette like she was some alien before Yang cut in.

"Sweet so the rumors were true, the champion really is attending this year, well get ready Nikos cause I'll proving that this dragon ain't scared of no Invincible Girl." She looked to the two more then surprised and very happy to be so. Jaune chuckled feeling a bit braver with his sisters around he stretched out his hand to her.

"Well, Pyrrha, hope we get along, we're all aiming to be humanities heroes after all." She looked to him smiling towards her, there was no deceit in his grin nor ill intent but just genuine goodwill. And that was why it was so easy for her to take his hand smiling the same her upturned mouth honest for the first time in so long.

"I can't believe this! First the dolt, now you two! What did I eve-" Before the heiress could rant on any further though an announcement played from the intercom system.

'Would all first-year students please report to Beacon Cliff for initiation? Again, all first-year students report to Beacon Cliff immediately.'

Though with the trio of headaches Weiss turned on her heel and made way for the cliffside but not before shooting Jaune one final baleful glare.

"I won't be forgetting this Xiao-Long…" And with that she was gone making her way out, no sooner did Pyrrha turn to them herself.

"Well, I must finish my preparations as well, it was nice meeting you three, Jaune I do hope we can be… friends?" Jaune blinked at being singled out not noticing Yang's grin nor Ruby widening eyes and paling face. None the less he smiled back despite his blush.

"Y-yeah, sure." With a nod she made her way out Jaune's face still hot he would've been content staring at her had pain not had irrupted from his shin and he jumped back grasping it as Ruby looked away pouting.

"Ow ow ow! Ruby, what was that for?" Said reaper huffed.

"It was an accident, besides it wouldn't have happened if you'd been paying attention." Yang chuckled watching the two before sparing her scroll a glance.

"Hey you two we ain't got much time, we should probably be heading out." Both cut off from their little session turning to the brawler before Jaune made his way to his locker opening it and pulling out Crocea Mors, his gear and…

"Give me a second you two, gotta get this stuff on, I'll meet you outside okay?" Ruby looked like she wanted to complain but Yang nodded grabbing her by the collar and quickly dragging her away.

"Don't keep us waiting too long bro, I'll be pissed if you got this far only to fail out of Beacon for being a no show." Jaune chuckled but nodded.

"Got my word sis, all three of us are making it in today or my name ain't Xiao-Long." Yang nodded to that while Jaune begun to work on his new wardrobe alongside his reaper modified Crocea Mors.


On the cliffside the hopeful students waited over the Emerald Forest not helping but to look over the sea of trees beneath. All except two sisters currently waiting half worried about they're brother. Ruby bounced in place the urge to rush and try to get her brother here in time 'very' tempting. Yang herself stared at the doorway eyes tinging maroon as her gaze locked on it.

"'tsk' C'mon bro you can't seriously make us worry like this." Not fair off Weiss rolled her eyes.

"Hmph, of course, that dolt would be late, why'd he'd even bother coming if he wasn't gonna take today seriously. The nerve of some people." Pyrrha looked like she wanted to retort the girl but held her tongue seeing two sisters already shooting glares the heiress's way. They would've spoken if a voice hadn't cut in.

"Talking behind my back now, guess I gave you too much credit Frosty, won't do that again, promise." Turning Weiss readied to shoot another famous icy glare only to be mildly surprised when seeing the blondes look. Though his hood and jeans remained the causal pair of sneakers were long gone in place of a nice pair of laced boots. His chest piece and spaulders where was a pale white trimmed gold with similarly themed bracers and armored gloves. Holstered long his right forearm was Crocea Mors.

Yet what drew the eye most for one young reaper was the cloak he wore, a pristine white hooded cloak, a tribute to his mother in all but blood. Both sisters looked to him as he made his way unto his own platform and when he turned to them a brow quirked he couldn't help but ask.

"What's wrong?" Yang shook her head and smiled.

"Nothing, 'heh' and here I thought you had no style, way to prove me wrong, right sis, sis?" Turning Yang spotted Ruby just staring up at Jaune beside her.

"So cool…" Yang smirked, poor Rubes already had a hard enough time with Jaune and now he went and put on a hood like her. Oh yeah, she was teasing her lil sis into an adorable puddle over this when they all passed.

'ahem' The three turned then spotting the headmaster shooting the three a amused look while Goodwitch glared.

"Mister Arc, stylishly late I see, it would appear that's one trait you got from your father." Jaune quirked a brow but ignored it.

"Now then, hopefully with no further interruption our dear Goodwitch may explain our little test to determine who may enter Beacon." Said woman didn't waste a beat pushing up her glasses as she spoke a sternness in her eyes.

"The rules are quite simple, you will be deployed into the Emerald Forest where you will be partnered, the way this will happen will be through visual contact…"

"The first person whose gaze you meet."

"Whaaat!" Jaune chuckled at Rubes who looked pale, he recalled her planning something about Yang and him meeting up with her but it looked like things would be a bit harder than that for her. Ozpin decided to speak then.

"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 with whom you can work well." Jaune chuckled at the cruelty of it, after all with rules like that you didn't exactly have a choice in the matter unless you were good at tracking. Thankfully uncle Qrow wasn't no slouch so he and his sisters could manage.

"After you've partnered up, make your way to the northern end of the forest. You will meet opposition along the way. Do not hesitate to destroy everything in your path... or you will die." Jaune winced at the idle threat.

"Geez uncle Qrow was right about Beacon being hardcore." He'd have to find Yang and Rubes quick, safety in numbers after all and his semblance could easily turn a life threatening situation on its head.

"You will be monitored and graded through the duration of your initiation, but our instructors will not intervene. You will find an abandoned temple at the end of the path containing several relics. Each pair must choose 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?" With a note of pride Weiss spoke up.

"Excuse me headmaster I'd like to disc-"

"Good! Now, take your positions." Jaune snickered at Frosty shocked mug shooting her a slightly mean grin before she was sent flying. Yang looked over to him then.

"You really got a grudge against her don't you?" He shrugged.

"Until I hear an apology to Rubes I not letting that one off the hook." Yang rolled her eyes.

"Stubborn as always huh, well not my problem." With a smile she brought down a pair of aviators winking at her favourite sibling before being launched away with a cheer. Turning Ruby held a plea in her eyes.

"Please find me and sis! Before someone else does." He nodded.

"I'll try, besides I'm sure everything will work out." Reassured Ruby turned to face the forest before being launched away. Seeing her gone he readied himself popping his next and assuming position as he trained his eyes on Ruby and Yang, though he might not be first to reach them he would rendezvous with them.

"Mister Arc." Jaune waited to be launched.

"Mister Arc." Still waited.

"Hmm, so you aren't aware. Xiao-Long." Jaune turned then but before a word could pass his launch pad went off sending him flying.

Not a second was wasted as he looked towards the incoming forest focusing her let his aura seethe out his form glowing a brilliant white before finally he opened his eyes in time to see a incoming tree. Crossing his arms, he braced for impact colliding with the thick stump and crashing it toppling the old noble oak. In the distance a redhead spartan looked to the display intrigued as if having seen a comet descend.

"Hmm." The decision was easy after all, he did interest her and… Cheeks pinked at the memory of that smile. Jaune hadn't done much upon meeting her and that was exactly what drew her, Pyrrha Nikos to him.

Raising up from the crash sight Jaune stood popping his neck before looking around, quickly he flipped out his scroll noting his aura at 90 percent.

"'whistle' Whoa, that took more out of me then I thought…" Closing his eyes he focused his aura and slowly the bar begun to raise as he amplified his aura reserves recovery speed. With a bing it was done his readings back at full and he readied to leave.

"Gotta find Yang and Ruby."

Weiss landed into the forest with all the grace expected of a Schnee and immediately surveyed her surroundings. I was as she was doing such that she saw it, what looked like a white comet crash into the earth not all to far away. The display was impressive she'd admit, but it was also last which could only mean it was him. Her features scrunched up at the thought.

Xiao-Long.

With a huff she turned away having no intention of partnering much less associating with that brutish dolt. However someone close by very much wanted to meet up with their brother and crashed into said heiress as their silver eyes still remained fixed on the sky where said boy had been mere moments ago.

What followed was a twin pair of despairing cries.

Jaune walked through the forest eyes trained for any signs of other, He'd only been walking for half an hour but still he'd hoped he'd had found someone. Then again he was the last to be launched.

'growl'

"'sigh' Yeah, that figures, well 'neck crack' Guess you'll make a good warmup." Turning he spotted several Beowulves regarding him with balefully crimson eyes, he smiled as he made his way to them a slight pick up in his steps. The first of the beast growled and begun to rush forward, it roared out and leaped for the blonde teeth aimed at his throat only for a hand to reach out and grab its lower jaw with enough force to crack the teeth beneath.

With great force he swung the grimm around crashing it into a tree where its back made a deep meaty crunch before it feel unto the ground and begun to fade. Not missing a beat Jaune erected his auric barrier just in time for a second grimm to slam into it turning he pulled back his fist before punching the stun wolf right between the eyes cracking it's face plate and sending it flying back.

Jumping back he avoided two more who'd opted to strike at once and braced his legs upon landing as he charged in towards them. The grimm roared lunging at him but he had different plans as he reached out gripping the first one outstretched claw and forcing it in front of him to receive the attack of the other.

The Grimm cried out in pain while the other froze in momentary shock before Jaune slammed his right fist into the back of the captured Grimm's head. The sound of scrapping metal rung as Crocea Mors erupted out the beast skull and into its brethren who was against it. A foot on its back he kicked off the twqo fading corpses as the black slick dissolved off the modified Crocea Mors.

The blade emerged from the arm mounted sheath like a hidden wrist blade with rotation of his wrist he could sheath it again or as he clenched his knuckles the blade came out in full hanging off his arm like a cruel mantis's claw. White light flooded the edge of the old pallor blade yet the grimm before him were not scared and charged in. Jaune reached beneath his hood pulling out his last little surprise, a gift from his uncle

'bang, bang'

The Beowulf screamed as it chest and left thigh were torn through by the high impact round of Divinus Mors. Again he fired the hand cannon that's rounds tore through not just grimm but the trees and created clouds in the dirt where it hit. The recoil was intense more then any normal man could handle and if not for his auricly reinforced and amplified wrist and hand he'd doubt he'd be shooting it without breaking his wrist.

Its caliber was the same as Ruby's and horribly devastating to the Grimm charging him but they had numbers on their side and eventually they reached him even if a good number had to die on the way. The air song and whistled as his brought out his right arm Crocea Mors bisecting the first of the soulless interlopers. Turning on heel be narrowly avoided one's claw and punch forward running his blade straight through its mouth and out the back of its head.

A flip out the wrist and the blade tore through the skull like butter before slashing into the incoming neighbor Grimm decapitating it. another finally landed a blow on him only for its claws to shatter against his barrier, before it could even cry out in pain Divinus Mors's barrel slammed into its lower jaw shutting it up before firing straight through.

"Oh what have we here?" He spotted it behind the group glaring him down and alpha who looked reasonably wise, more than likely searching for an opening. He countered and killed its pack one at a time never neglecting its presence as he did. Another Beowulf reached to tear his throat only for Crocea to seize its instead. He paced himself well while he could probably afford to take the risk and be more aggressive he wasn't his sister and preferred a more calculative approach to combat like dad had taught him.

Finally though the group was little more then a straggler or two and the Alpha who glared at him, he regarded it to and knowing its intellect holstered Divinus Mors. The Grimm growled at the seemingly weakened Arc probably assuming he was out of ammo, foolish but then again he didn't need his gun his aim wasn't too good anyways. His wrist-mounted blade begun to shift retracting back into its sheath before dislodging itself from his forearm. He grabbed the dismounted blade's handle as the sheath collapsed in on itself into a heavier claymore reminiscent of his uncle's blade.

The Grimm regarded him curiously, cautiously and he did the same, finally it gestured with a lift of the snout and two to the remaining pair of Beowulves tore forward at him. He waited for them standing Crocea held in a basic stance, they lunged and he acted with a horizontal swing, aura roared out the old blade and an Arc of pristine white light tore the two in half. The Alpha struck then diving down aiming to hit just under his swing, its claw rose to hit him square center.

But it proved futile as his palm stretched out and a barrier of white shielded his front, one that could tanking Yang at her worse much less an Alpha's claws. With a shift of his wrist and weight he brought the dull side of his blade down on its head, the Grimm whined disoriented as the Arc didn't waste a moment maneuvering in on it. Catching it leg he unbalanced it before tucking himself under its pit and pulling it over him in a flip. The Alpha landed hard on its back crying out as a boot slammed down on its right shoulder shattering it. Without missing a beat Crocea Mors dug straight into the center of its chest ending its false life. He exhaled then without any foreseeable threats in his immediate area but having caught on to something else.

"You just gonna stand there and stare or are we partners?" From the bush a form approached and turning he was surprised to find Pyrrha standing there mildly impressed by his display.

"I certainly hadn't intended to just watch but it looked like you could handle it and quite impressively I might add." Jaune scratched his cheeks embarrassed.

"It, it was nothing really… So, are we… Y'know?" she smiled putting out her hand to him again.

"Partners, it would seem so, a pleasure Jaune." He nodded taking her hand thankful it was gloves so she didn't feel his palms sweat.


Yang had just finished putting down Yoji as the Ursa faded into ash, she readied to do the same to boo.

"What! You want some, too?!" The Grimm gowled rearing up preparing to fight only for a whirling noise to cut through the air and then turning wet and squishy. The Ursa abruptly paused as it stiffened and no sooner did it suddenly fall on its face and begun to break down into smoke. On its quickly fading corpse Yang looked up to find Blake standing there regarding her a Variant Ballistic Chain Scythe that she was sure Ruby would drool at seeing. She only had one thing to say to her apparently new partner.

"I could've taken him."


Jaune and Pyrrha walked in relative silence, the blonde trying real hard not to say something stupid to his new pretty partner.

Dammit! What the hell, dad got married twice to two bombshells why can't I even hold a conversation with a girl! I blame Yang! Hoarding all the good genes for herself! Social awkwardness and motion sickness c'mon!

The blonde racked his head for an answer to his predicament the girl beside him decided to speak.

"So Jaune, your weapons a sword and arm blade?" He paused looking back to her.

"Did I say something wrong?"

Crap! C'mon Jaune, speak, words! What did she ask again? …Oh Right!

"Y-yeah, Crocea here doesn't really shift itself but its shield does." Pyrrha tilted her head.

"Shield?"

"Oh, right, guess you wouldn't be able to tell just from watching me huh?" Disconnecting the sheathed blade form his bracer he let it shift into its kite shield.

"This is what it could originally do, my little sister helped me modify it to attach to my bracer and shift into a claymore like our uncles."

"I see, well its reassuring to have somebody else with a shield I suppose." Jaune blushed embarrassed.

"N-not really, you see, well… the man who taught me how to use my sword, my uncle; didn't use a shield, only a broad sword, so that's how I tend to fight with the claymore mode."

"Oh, was it not originally yours than." Jaune nodded.

"Yeah, my mom… She left it to me… Odd when I think about it since she didn't use a sword and shield either. Guess it must have been my grandpa's or something." Pyrrha looked to it, the blade was a beautiful white with gold detailing, but upon a closer look she could note a few nicks in the sword and by the aid of her semblance could sense the oddly worked metal.

"It would appear quite aged…" Jaune smiled.

"Me and Rubes just call it a classic, 'heh' sounds cooler when you think of it as retro y'know?" She nodded.

"Perhaps I could help you, I have quite a wealth of experience with my sword and shield." Jaune blushed at the idea of one-on-one training with the leggy spartan but shook his head.

"Well, I wouldn't want you to burden yourself…" Asking for help had never been his strong suit he scratched his head.

"Jaune, it would hardly be a burden, besides it'd be nice to face someone else with a similar style of combat."

"I, well… 'sigh' Sorry if I waste your time." He'd learned long ago there was little point in arguing with the fairer sex. Hopefully he could distract her away from helping him, wouldn't want to have his partner waste her time helping him instead of improving herself and making a mistake during a mission.

It was then they stopped as they spotted it, a cave with very ominous paintings on the wall.

Well, if that's not a Deathstalker warning I don't know what is.

Pyrrha frowned.

"I think we should move on, I'm pretty sure the relics aren't here." Pyrrha turned to leave but Jaune could only look to the pictures of warning, the people fighting the Grimm, and the one beneath seemingly dead.

"Hold on." Pyrrha stopped turning to him finding his former shyness pushed aside as azure orbs looked to the pictures with grave determination.

"This thing… it lived a long time… probably killed a lot of people in that time too." She paused knowing it wasn't just possible but very likely.

"And right now there are a bunch of people in this forest, some I'm sure aren't as tough as us."

"Jaune?" He looked to the mouth of the cave and could swear he could here the beast within, memories of that Beowulf from so long ago came to mind. A small grimm by comparison to the one depicted in the paintings of the wall. It wouldn't need much, only to get the initiative on a student tired and confused. The headmaster's warning came to mind then.

Do not hesitate to destroy everything in your path... or you will die.

That wasn't right, at least not completely, it wasn't just him who could die from his choices but others. Ignoring this Grimm now could get some curious student killed later.

"Sorry Pyrrha, but could you go ahead of me?" She looked to him half shocked.

"You can't mean you intend to fight it? Jaune thats-"

"What a huntsman is…" He smiled to her.

"We're supposed to fight the Grimm so others don't have to, besides if I let this thing go after how many people it's probably killed… It'd leave a bad taste in my mouth." She watched him for several seconds before sighing and drawing her own weapons. He looked at her confused.

"What are you doing?"

"It's as you said isn't it, after hearing your logic I can't very well ignore leaving a threat like this to others. So, do you mind having back up?" He looked to her seeing the dare for him to retort her.

Oum above she has pretty eyes, No! Dammit Jaune focus!

Shaking the thought away he looked to her forcing his best smile.

"Well, guess nothing I say will stop you right?" She nodded glad he understood before a bright white radiance enveloped her form expanding her auric pool and amplifying them. She looked to him shocked his palms still raised.

"There, for several minutes you should be more durable, at least your barriers." She looked to her palms surprised, feeling the power course through her. It was amazing, she readied to ask him more but his back was to her and eye firmly set upon the opposing darkness of the cavern's maws.

"Well, let's not waste any time, we still got ruins to find and relics to collect." His sheath collapsed in on itself turning into a Claymore as he stepped forward into the depths. His aura lit faintly barely allowing them sight beyond the next several feet but by extension helping them stay concealed.

It was after several long minutes that they spotted something, an odd shape glowing in the distance seemingly in the air swaying slightly side to side. Jaune's eyes narrowed recognizing the shape for what it was and not hesitating to take the opportunity drawing Divinus Mors as he whispered beside him.

"Pyrrha how good are you with your aim." Her answer was the shifting of gears as Miló turned to Rifle mode.

"On the count of three… One, two… Three!" Two booms filled the air as on hit the glowing appendage right where it connected with the body while another grazed it tearing through what it hit and bursting apart the wall it hit. The beast cried out in pain and anger and in response Jaune's aura flared allowing them perfect sight of there surroundings.

"Retreat!" The Deathstalker waved a claw there way only for it to slam against an auric barrier Jaune erected. Turning heel him and the Spartan made a run for the exit Jaune lighting. The two were quick on their feet quickly leaping opposite direction and no sooner did the entrance explode in a cloud of dust and rubble. Drawing Divinus Mors Jaune unloaded into the faint silhouette in the cloud.

His reward was a claw slamming down against his barrier, he smiled having successfully drawn its attention. Allowing his barrier to give the claw came crashing down and he jumped just out of its destination. Given the opening he charged in close thrusting Crocea straight into the largest of its left flanks eyes.

Again it screech but he didn't care and pulled back his blade aiming Divinus once more before unloading into it again getting several beady eyes. Enraged it swung its tail down with deadly force and while the stinger was gone the strength behind the blow was telling sending him flying into and through a tree.

"Jaune!" Pyrrha rushed to her partner surprised when she saw said blonde raise on his own only a bit worse for wear.

"Geez that took a tenth, this thing really isn't a joke."

"Oh thanks the gods." Before she could even attempt reprimanding him Jaune tackled her and no sooner did the place they sat explode in a dust cloud. The Deathstalker screeched while Jaune and Pyrrha gaze each other a glance before nodding and breaking into another run.

"This place is too open, we need to restrict its movements!" The Grimm screeched behind them tearing down and apart trees as it did.

"Fuck it's too tough for the foliage to handle… Maybe?" Reaching out he directed his aura into the trees in his line of sight. All thinks had aura in this world, but the Grimm plants included. The greenery lit white in response as he directed its auric properties.

"Pyrrha! Between the glowing trees!" She nodded and followed and the two broke through the branches the Deathstalker on their tail only to abruptly be stopped as it hit the oak. Confused it pushed forward but the trees held creaking as their insides begun to give. The air whistled as Miló stabbed into the ruined side of its face impaling the already destroyed eyes.

It lit black then before a second force pushed it forward once more and it dug deeper. The ancient Grimm cried out finally breaking he trees but unable to focus on it, Jaune watched the redhead shocked. Wondering whether her semblance was telekinesis or something similar. The Deathstalker went berserk swinging its body in every direction destroying anything and everything in its way.

Pyrrha rose her shield to just in time as the claw hit her dead one sending her skidding, the Grimm paused then as the break in concentration ceased the spears barreling. Able to focus it turned to the girl who was disoriented from the blow, with a roar it rushed her way.

"Pyrrha!" Jaune leaped before her, Crocea drawn and his aura flaring, all he had to do was tank the first blow and draw its attention with his anger. HE dug his feet in the ground, preparing himself to do what was needed to save her, or die trying.

Sorry mom, looks like I'll be seeing you so-

"~Whee!~" From out of nowhere a Ursa charged into the Deathstalker averting its charge. The Grimm growled and swung at the adolescent tearing it in half with on clamp of its claw. However instead of merely breaking into ash the world before it exploded pink, literally. Jaune was forced on his butt by the blast wave as a form landed in front of him. The man appeared in green oriental clothing with black hair, he looked utterly compose and focused…

'pant pant.' Or would've had he not put his hands on his knees and took in desperate breaths of air, no sooner did a second for seemingly appear out of nowhere beside him.

"Did you see that Renny! Cuddles defended us!"

"'sigh' Nora, you drove that Ursa into the Deathstalker and besides it died." The gingers gigawatt smile vanished as she fell to her knees almost comically.

"Nooo!"

"Besides, your being rude to our companions." Turning Magenta met azure as he offered a hand Jaune's way which he took with a nod.

"Jaune, Jaune Xiao-Long, the girl here is my partner Pyrrha."

"Hello." Pyrrha seemed nervous around the two maybe she knew them, they were all from Mistral after all. Regardless all the boy did was nod.

"Lie Ren, and this is -"

"NORA!" The two jumped back from the sudden shout by the pink bomber, put out a hand to the girl which she eagerly took with a grip that'd compete with Yang's and shook for dear life.

"so, Pyr-Pyr, Jaune-Jaune what's the story here, where'd you find this big meanie! Ooh ooh, can we name it? Lets call him waffles, cause then he deserves to die!" Jaune smiled at the girl's energy, she had so much, like Ruby on a Sugar rush with Yang levels of strength, it should be terrifying and yet somehow he felt at ease, Ren cut in then.

"I'm afraid that'll have to wait Nora, for now we have other concerns." Looking to Ren he followed his sight finding the Deathstalker seemingly recovered now and glaring at them. It shrieked before charging their way but this time he was ready.

"Everyone manifest your barriers!"

"But-"

"Just do it, trust me!" Not denying his commanding tone they followed orders and were shocked when their auric pools expanded increasing and reinforcing their shields. While Jaune and Pyrrha's wouldn't have been enough, double that was a different story entirely. The Grimm slammed against them only to not shatter the light walls. Jaune didn't hesitate rushing forward and swinging Crocea Mors square at its face a arc of energy tearing into its face eliciting another scream.

"Nora! Fire at the mouth!" the ginger smiled eyes sparkling at the command.

"You got it!" Without wasting a moment she fired and several payload shot into its maws and down its throat. No sooner did the beast explode into a coral cloud of sparkles, Jaune endured the force this time waiting till the smoke cleared before calming only doing so when he saw the backside of the scorpion fall forward its front gone completely. Jaune stared at the body for several long minutes before finally sighing in relief until his new friend Nora tackled him.

"That was awesome! Renny never lets me explode stuff!" He smiled the peppy gingers way patting her head like he would Ruby's.

"Well you saved our bacon so I figured why not." She smiled his way.

"Yay! New friends." Jaune chuckled, he wish he had half the girl's confidence, Pyrrha watched on not sure why she didn't like seeing the new girl cling to Jaune so much. Before she could voice any kind of complaint though Ren stepped in.

"That's enough Nora, let him go, we still have to find the relics after all."

"Help!" turning towards the voice they were surprise when they looked up to find a Nevermore soaring above them a familiar white clad heiress and red cape goth Lolita clinging desperately to it.

"Ruby!" Without thinking he rushed after the big bird, panic setting in as Crocea Mors glowed white and he poured half his aura into it. The amount would be a problem but it was the only way. With a roar he swung and from his blade a colossal Arc of energy emerged flying into the air towards its mark. Noticing his riling emotions, the Nevermore turned in his direction only to see an Arc of light rush its way. Quickly it tried to maneuver away but the blade still tore into its wing.

The giant bird cried as it lost its ability to fly and began to descend, the two huntresses hitching a ride screaming the entire way down. Jaune didn't bother giving orders choosing instead to rush towards his little sister even as his body was confused and disoriented from the sudden amount of aura he'd used. How long he ran didn't matter, all that did was when he broke the tree line to find Yang and Blake.

The former crying out as she rushed towards a downed Nevermore and when he saw why he froze in horror. There was Ruby seemingly pinned by a pinion in her cape, the colossal bird didn't waste a moment stabbing its large sharp beak forward.

"'Hmph' Rushing in so recklessly, you really are a child aren't you?" Jaune stopped when he saw Weiss before Ruby a wall of ice capturing the Nevermore's beak.

Oh thank Oum!

Peeking Ruby finally saw her partner standing over her.

"Weiss?" Retracting her rapier from the glacier she readied its barrel to another dust vial.

"I swear, your dim-witted, hyperactive, and don't even get me started on that absurd fighting style of yours…" She exhaled then.

"And I suppose I can be a bit... difficult." Jaune's brow rose.

A bit?

"But if we're going to do this, we're going to have to do this together. So, if you quit trying to show off, I'll be... nicer." Jaune sighed.

Dammit, guess I have to tone down bullying her…

Ruby looked up seeming a bit disheartened.

"I'm not trying to show off. I want you to know I ca- Weiss look out!" The glacier shattered then as the Nevermore in its anger opened its maw to bite down on the heiress only for a form to step in simultaneously taking the pale beauty by the waist in one arm while bashing his kite shield into the beast mouth with enough force to shut it. Skidding back Jaune glared at it. Weiss looked at him dumbfounded for several seconds.

"You okay?" Cheeks flushed as she saw his eyes fixed upon the Grimm in utter determination. As a warmth filled her soul.

"I-I! Unhand me!" A brow rose at her odd tone but none the less he complied.

Guess that was a bit rude of me, still a thanks would've been nice, but I guess it was Frosty after all.

Letting her go she stubbled back brushing herself off her cheeks flushed while Jaune himself unconsciously flexed his hand.

Huh? She was… soft.

Cheeks pinked at the embarrassing thought but before either could speak up the Nevermore cried out, only for dozens of pink grenades to slam into its face exploding in a cloud of coral dust. Nora then zipped beside him smiling.

"Your super fast Jaune-Jaune!" Breaking the tree line Pyrrha made a dash his way Ren right beside her. Yang deadpanned at her brothers new friends.

"Great, the gangs all here, now we can die together." Jaune chuckled.

"Ren, Nora this is my twin Yang, and the munchkin-"

"Hey!".

"Is my little sister Ruby." Behind them Blake hummed at the new detail but was curious why Jaune was avoiding looking her way. Yang noticed this and smield walking up to Jaune and leaning a shoulder on him.

"You jealous bro?" Jaune looked away cheeks red.

"Sh-shut up…" She chuckled while Ruby just looked to Pyrrha in horror.

"Oh now he really did team up with the biggest threat!" Yang snickered already loving where this year was going. Her joy however was cut short when a feather flew right past her face cutting her cheek, No sooner did a second shoot forward aimed dead between her eyes only to be deflected by Jaune's barrier.

No sooner did he wave out his hand and the group was flooded with white light as he forced they're barriers up and amplified. Yang noticed the sweat on his brow recalling the Arc that'd helped Rubes and Weisscream hit dirt without croaking.

"Jaune, how much aura do you have left." He shook his head.

"Not much, maybe got one more good boost in me…" Ruby adopted a more serious look to her while Weiss spoke up.

"Look, there's no sense in dilly-dallying. Our objective are to get the relics and go, we don't need to fight it." Ruby was quick to agree.

"She's right. Our mission is to grab an artifact and make it back to the Cliffs. There's no point in fighting these things." Jaune shook his head.

"While I can certainly get behind the idea of strategic retreats this is a very big Nevermore…" Yang, ruby and Pyrrha sighed knowing exactly their blonde's thought process. The two sisters stopped then turning to Pyrrha. Yang smiled while Ruby pouted.

"Oh wow, P-Money, haven't even been partners a day and you can already read my brother like a book." Pyrrha's cheeks reddened at the suggestive tone of the brawler making her smile even wider, oh yeah she liked her bros partner and this was definitely gonna be a fun year. Ruby looked to Pyrrha, what did she have, long legs, a killer body and big boobs, whatever.

"Stupid puberty…"

"Um guys? You listening?" The three turned to Jaune who sighed already knolw9ing the answer knowing his sisters. He sighed.

"I was saying we'll take care of it sis, Rubes." Both looked to him confused before he smiled.

"I hear Initiation is broadcast to the student body, so I figure why not show them how are pops and uncle raised us, and what better way then with a 'Burning Rose'." Both smiled at the combo name and no sooner did Jaune raise his palms to them filling the sisters with light. Without, Yang abruptly burst into golden flames before being swallowed up by a twister of Rose petals. Light amplified the two multiplying the effects of their semblances and the twister turned into a colossal tornado of red petals.

The ends of the petals begun to ignite with golden flames until the red storm turned into a golden inferno. While no true threat usually Yang's flames temp increased with the raise in damage received and aura and with his semblance her flames could burn a dragon. Th tornado qui8ckly descended upon the giant bird that screeched as it was enveloped in flames. Crescent Rose manifested seconds at a time tearing the beast apart like a blender as it was roasted.

Eventually the heat and tear proved too much and with a final shrill cry the Nevermore died, bursting to a cloud of ash. Jaune disengaged his Aura Boost before falling to his knees sweat trailing down his brow as his aura readings were in the red. The others stared shocked while Ruby and Yang manifesting bumping fist and smiling knowing they looked awesome. Ruby quickly looked panicked upon seeing Jaune on his knees and readied to rush to him only for Pyrrha to offer him a hand that he gratefully took.

"Sorry about this…" She shook her head.

"No need, we're partners after all." He smiled cheeks still slightly red but maybe it was the fatigue and disorientation that gave him the bravery to talk to the spartan. Ruby shook at the sight her twitch graduated to adorable sneer. On that Yang found absolutely hilarious.


Ruby watched the stage frowning Yang patting her back as she did, it wasn't fair! Up there was Jaune and no her or Yang, Just Jaune, all by himself with Pyrrha Nikos! Pyrrha Leggy Nikos! With her dumb long red mane, pretty model body and big dumb boobies! Worse yet was how she was stealing glances at Jaune and how her cheeks reddened whenever he'd catch her! No, no Oum dammit! She does not get to be adorable on top of being pretty! That was her shtick! Finally though the dumb headmaster who made that stupid eye rule spoke up…

"Jaune Arc. Lie Ren. Pyrrha Nikos. Nora Valkyrie. The four of you retrieved the white rook pieces. From this day forward, you will work together as Team JNPR." It wasn't fair why couldn't she be in a team with her brother! Wait… Arc? Beside her Yang seemed to notice as well raising a brow instead of smiling and teasing her like she'd been doing prior.

"Uh, did the headmaster just mess up bro's name."

"Hmph, perhaps the dunce wrote his name wrong, I'd hardly be surprised. Thought Arc, that does sound vaguely familiar… Valian Aristocrats perhaps?" Yang turned for her own partner's feedback only to stop when she found the girl looking to the stage a bit surprised.

"Arc, weren't they all… but his hair and eyes… Wait, Yang what did you say his weapon was called?" Yang quirked a brow.

"Oh, you mean his sword, yeah it's called Crocea Mors, its apparently an old name from before the Great War from what mom said. It's actually kinda a in joke cause me and bro are both blondes and that name means-"

"… Yellow Death." Blake's gaze grew a tinge more focused on Jaune, and Ruby was she if he knew he'd be blushing.

"My dad said they were wiped out… I'd have never heard of them if no for that night."

"Uh, Blake? Mind helping a girl out, cause I ain't following what you saying." She looked to her confused before realization dawned on her.

"You, you don't know?" Now it was Ruby's turn to look confused and tilt her head.

"Know what?" Before the brunette could expand upon it Ozpin spoke again.

"Mister Arc you are not Summers son."

"Well duh, me and Yang have known that for years… Raven was my birth mother." Ozpin shook his head then.

"I'm afraid that's wrong as well, you father, was Julius Arc, a person whose family Vale owes a great debt to… You mother Summer, took you in after certain circumstances." Jaune stared unable to comprehend what was said as the entire crowd went silent at the sudden information and curiosity. Only one person dared to act differently.

"YYYEEESSS!" The whole auditoriums focused turned upon one tiny redhead who hopped in joy until she notices the hundreds of eyes and quickly turned pale…


And done, whew this was a chapter, and so ends my Jaune Xioa-Long fic… for now. I wanna get Jaune Belladonna Arc caught up and still have to do the second part of Beyond Familial so look forward to it. I won't return to this fic till after I get the other Adopt Jaune fics to Chapter five. Also note Jaune does find Weiss attractive but hates that she's so mean to Ruby which is a turn off to him and since he'd Yang's brother he's grown similar taste hence liking Blake LOL. Finally cause he's not hooked on Weisscream he'd not got tunnel vision hence finding Pyrrha attractive.