Author's Notes: Released By popular demand and no less than 2 PM's asking "when are you releasing the next chapter? Right Now!

Chapter 10: The Awakening

Jaune hadn't known how long he had been at this. Surprisingly enough, he wasn't really tired, not really. He'd about just finished releasing two tethers and was making a b-line for the final one. Along the way demons popped out of the ground and like as always he killed them with relative ease.

Jaune knew it had to down with him releasing the tethers sealing his power, he literally felt the power rush into him when he broke parts of the seal. He was faster, stronger, felt lighter and had more endurance. More than that though, he felt confident, one of his many insecurities was his lack of combat skill and total inexperience with fighting Grimm.

He may not still be fighting the Grimm but after killing the number of strange, scary and frankly disturbing looking demons well, who wouldn't be confident?

"Don't let it get to your head"

"Huh?"

"Your powers, don't let it get to your head. As much as I hate to admit it you're still nowhere near your friends' level of skill so don't even think about getting arrogant!"

"R-right."

'She was right' he thought 'can't be too overconfident.'

It was the same overconfidence that let him fake his way into Beacon and make a fool of himself in front of Weiss and Pyrrha. As a matter fact he's pretty sure he would've ended up being a bloody stain on the Emerald forest floor if it wasn't for Pyrrha's help. He never did repay her for doing that. He never repaid her for taking the time to teach him how to fight.

Has he ever done anything for her before?

"No you haven't" Crocea spoke.

"What?"

"Your question, no you haven't done a single thing to repay your partner for what she's done for you."

"Oh."

"You should probably fix that once you get out of here."

"You have any advice?"

"..actually I do."

"What?"

"Stop flirting with the Schnee girl for a start."

Jaune blinked, he did not see that coming.

"And after you do that maybe you could see what's been in front of you this whole time" she finished cryptically.

Jaune didn't have time to mull over these words as he reached the final tether, like all the others it was a stone link to a chain only this one was in a high rise building. It almost looked like an arena.

"That's because it is an arena."

Jaune frowned at his weapon "stop that."

"Stop what?" her voice a fake confusion.

"Reading my mind and answering my questions" it was a little weird the first time but now it was just getting annoying.

"I didn't have to read your mind for that one Jaune. You're just really easy to read, we're going to work on that too after you defeat the Imprisoner"

"The who?"

*GROWL*

"Him" she sighed.

Jaune glanced to the side to see a big hulking behemoth of a creature walking out of the shadows on two small legs and four hands. Its face oddly enough was a bland porcelain doll mask. The moment it caught sight if Jaune though there was a cracking glass effect as the mask broke apart in four

*ROOOOOAAAAARRRR*

The thing was as big as Deathstalker, as the creature charged Jaune knew one thing was for certain. If he managed to beat this thing, he may never be afraid of another Grimm again.

"AAAAAHHHHH!" Jaune charged with his own war cry.

At the last minute he jumps up and uses angel lift to do a double jump. He landed and turned to see the creature…using its tongue to lick the air.

'What's it doing?'

Finally the creature charged again and this time Jaune uses angel lift to propel himself away in a long distance barrel roll. Jaune landed in a crouch to observe the creature and again there was a pause as it used its tongue in the air. It turned to him and charged but this stood on its short legs and smashed its four arms where Jaune was.

He stopped in his barrel roll and skipped back 'okay so it can't see me and if I'm seeing this right it doesn't have a nose so smelling is out too.' Jaune smiled, a plan already forming.

That plan was almost dashed when instead of dashing at him the creature smashed its fist in the ground and shoved it forward. The ground began rushing towards him like an earthy barbwire fence with a low orange glow to it.

Naturally Jaune dived out the way but it gave the creature enough time to pinpoint his location and it charged through its own barrier easily to get to him. Like before Jaune did a double jump to land behind it, only he went in close the moment he landed.

Several slashes were given each cut drawing blood but Jaune had to dodge a backhand.

*ROOOOOAAAAARRRR*

It charged after him and Jaune rolled out the way at the last minute. This time he made sure to keep up with it and when it started using its tongue to feel the air Jaune cut it off. The response was immediate the creature thrashed around and on of it fist hit Jaune square in the shield and sent him into the barrier erected.

*Boom*

Which promptly exploded launching Jaune in another direction. He rolled to a stop on his back and groaned "they explode great~"

He stood up and shook his head before looking at the creature still thrashing around. That's when it started sending more of those barbwire-like rocks towards him again.

"Crap!" he scrambled to his feet and ran only to find he was boxed in.

The creature roared and charged after him. Without much space to maneuver Jaune did the only thing he could, he hid behind his shield which started to glow. The moment the creature touched it there was a flash of light and the creature was thrown across the arena.

"Whoa"

"Less gawking more fighting!"

Jaune schooled his features, "right!"

Jaune zips forward with a blue-white light propelling him and jumped on the creatures back. After flipping the sword to a reverse grip he stabbed it directly in its head. The creature's movements slow but it didn't stop, he stabs again and continues until it dies. Its body dissolved and something flies into his body.

Jaune rubbed his now ruined chest plate, to say that the continued battles weighed on his clothes would be an understatement.

"What time is it outside?" he asked walking towards the link.

"I don't know but since your partner didn't visit then it must be early."

Jaune nodded and flipped the sword to a forward grip, his aura enveloped it and with a thrust he sunk it into the stone lock. Like before there was a crack forming throughout the structure and light shined through until.

*BOOOM*

The first time he did it Jaune was thrown back, now he was smart enough to use his shield and block the impact. After that was done he lowered it to see the shackles gone and the chain linking them crumble. The wings which were bound now begin to rise as does the statue until they are both at full height and expanse. The statue then turns its head slowly to look at Jaune

'That's not creepy or anything' he muttered sarcastically.

Its eyes begin to shine brightly to the point Jaune had to shield his eyes. Suddenly he found himself going through a blue-white tunnel, there were voices but they were faint and he couldn't pinpoint what they were saying.

\

Jaune's eyes snapped open, he blinked a couple of times and as he tried to ascertain his location he made one assumption 'this is definitely not the infirmary.'

He looked down to find Crocea Mors lying on his chest with his hands over it like so many traditional Arc funerals. He sat up and stretched, it felt like he slept for a week-oh wait he did. Next he took out the IV and dropped to the floor a little shakily and after a few stretches to loosen up he surveyed the area.

'This is definitely not the infirmary' he immediately deduced.

It wasn't the infirmary but it had a similar setting albeit an inferior one, whatever this room was. He walked straight to the door but paused, he didn't think he was in any danger but that didn't mean he could just relax either. He slowly opened the door to a dimly lit hallway and tentatively walked out.

Okay now he was sure he wasn't in Beacon, Jaune gripped Crocea Mors, his anxiety increased.

'Calm down Jaune'

"Crocea?" he looked at his sheathed sword.

'Yes, I am able to speak to you because you have begun your first step in ascending. I will continue to guide you until I am no longer needed.'

Jaune took a moment to contemplate this before nodding "do you know where we are?"

'…not specifically but we're still on Beacon grounds, well below it anyway.'

"Below?" he asked edging towards the last door down the hallway.

'Yes, I can feel your partner's presence above us so we must be in the lower levels. They must have moved you from the infirmary.'

"Wait what do you mean you can feel Pyrrha's presence?"

There was a pause before she spoke 'she was the one who unlocked your Aura Jaune. To do that she used her own and a piece of it was imprinted on you so I can use it to track her whereabouts'

"Oh" he opened the door a little and looked through. What Jaune saw was a very large walkway with towering pillars. The entire structure was lit by candle which glowed green in color

'I don't sense anyone else in the area-wait'

"What is it?"

'I'm not sure, but it feels…familiar'

"Dangerous?"

'No, not dangerous but…'

"Want me to check it out?"

"It's probably nothing'

Jaune shrugged "it's alright, I don't really mind" he began walking "just tell me where to go"

'Follow the walkway'

Jaune did as instructed until he came upon a four way path "where to?"

'Go left'

Again he followed her instructions and after a few minutes of walking he could vaguely here a series of beeps. Another few seconds he could see something like a cornucopia of random machines.

'There, that's it'

Jaune noted how strange Crocea's voice sounded, almost urgent, he quickened his pace and soon found himself staring in awe and confusion. There was a series of computers between two coffins like pods. One of them was set facing up while the other one was facing forward with an unconscious person inside.

Jaune cautiously approached the machine, his eyes glanced at the computers which showed her vitals and her name.

"Amber" he whispered, the name doesn't ring a bell and he went to the front of the pod to examine her face "do you know her Crocea?"

'…'

"Crocea?" he raised the sword

'….'

"Crocea"

'I don't know this woman…but I recognize her power from so long ago' her voice was wistful 'Autumn, what have they done to you?'

Her voice was pained, sorrowful and Jaune could feel a pang of sympathy. He took a good look at the comatose girl, she had nasty looking scars over her face. During his observation Crocea Mors started to illuminate.

"Crocea"

'Place your hand on the glass Jaune. I want to help her'

"O-okay" he placed his right hand on the glass and almost immediately the traveled from the sword to said hand and eventually into the tube where it enveloped Amber.

The entire time Jaune could feel a draining sensation "C-Crocea what's happening?"

'…a miracle' was the answer before the area was blanketed in light.

\

Dante had to admit breakfast was a 'bittersweet affair' as Vergil would phrase it. On the bright side he could see Nero was willingly talking to Ruby…nothing intimate they were just talking about weapons.

'It's a start'

Secondly he could see Blake not acting like bitch, the black circles under her eyes were gone which meant she actually slept. Most importantly she was talking to Sun, or at least she wasn't avoiding or ignoring him. His eyes locked with Yang's and he jerked his head towards the Faunus pair. Her eyes flashed to them and a triumphant and she gave a thumbs up.

'That's my girl' he thought with sly smirk which she returned.

The abrupt cold front caused the smirk to freeze of their face 'which brings us to the downside'

Weiss was being cold, frigid and even Dante wasn't dumb enough to comment on that and it wasn't because Yang warned him about it. He knew it was about her secret rendezvous with Neptune. Dante had a feeling one of them would have asked the other out to the dance and thought Neptune was doing the waiting game.

Obviously Weiss cracked first and took the initiative. Considering their not all flirty or even sitting close meant that she got turned down. Why in the hell he would turn her down is a very good question and he wanted to ask but Sun advised against it. The monkey Faunus said it was personal and that was the only reason why he was holding himself back.

For his part Neptune seemed oddly frustrated, he had this deep contemplative look while Weiss who sat the furthest away from him, distracted herself with her partner's conversation and even answered some Dust related questions. This

And don't even get him started with (J)NPR, they were utterly inconsolable. Judging by Pyrrha's even more destitute look and the concerned stares Ren and Nora threw he could only guess she told them about her situation. Again Dante couldn't do anything about it and it was really started to grate on his nerves, he was very much used to speaking his mind.

"Hey Yang" he asked the girl across from him.

"Hmm?" she acknowledged with a full mouth.

"Wanna go in the Emerald forest and kill some Grimm?"

This sparked a few head turns and Vergil sighed "Dante Beacon ahs training facilities for that"

"Hey the way I see it, I'm saving this place a few hundred thousand bucks in replacing those droids. You know me, when I cut I cut loose" the last words were pronounced with a red flash of his eyes and his voice going slightly demonic.

"Besides" he continued "we'd be doing the environment a favor getting rid of those hell spawns"

Vergil didn't refute that but he still had an issue "the faculty forbids any students from going into the Emerald forest because its danger…ous" he slowed when he realized the words exiting his mouth.

Dante lowered his head and raised an eyebrow "really"

Okay he admits he was literally reciting a rule he read and it wouldn't apply to Dante since he doubted there was anything in that forest that was a real danger to his brother.

"Point taken, but that doesn't mean Yang can go with-"

"Hey Yang can take care of herself" said blonde said taking offense.

"Trust me, you haven't seen her fight, goldie locks can kick ass. I'm pretty sure her team can vouch for her."

Vergil looked at said team and they gave nods "you'll be in trouble with Miss Goodwitch."

"Pssh" he waved it off "like we aren't still in trouble for sneaking off campus to a shady night club."

"Need I remind you the only reason why you got a slap on the wrist was because by sheer dumb luck it was demon hideout?"

"Yeah and who knows maybe we'll find another one in the Emerald Forest. You know I'm the one who always ends up in limbo."

"Quite" Vergil replied dryly.

Dante sighed "fine"

Vergil raised an eyebrow "really, you're letting this go?"

"Oh yeah, why go into the 'dangerous' Emerald forest when we have" he leaned forward with a coy smirk "The Bloody Palace."

Vergil's eyes widened before they narrowed "no."

"Oh come on we had this conversation already Verg!"

"I remember it, you annoyed me and I ignored you."

"Either you get us there or I announce the little club you have with Blake and Ren."

Blake's brow twitched and en paused in drinking his tea. They both stared at each other before their gaze fell on Vergil who himself looked shocked.

"How did I know?" he smirked folding his arm leaning back "I have my ways."

Vergil gritted his teeth "damn you Dante"

"That a yes? Cause I'm feeling really chatty."

His gaze went to Blake then Ren and he sighed "fine but one hour" he said with finality "and I'm shutting you down."

"What's Bloody Palace?" Nora enquired.

"Imagine this Nora, a room full of demons for you to destroy with no repercussions for going overboard."

The smile on Nora seemed to perk up at the mention of demons and turned to Ren "Renny we have to go!"

"Nora.." he tried to placate tiredly, he really wasn't in the mood to fight Grimm, that was her way of releasing stress, his was to meditate and calm himself.

Pretty hard to do that fighting Grimm.

"But Renny~" she gave him the puppy dog pout, the same one that could make his indomitable will crumble.

"Oh don't worry Ren I can look after her for ya" Dante suggested.

Ren looked at him, part of the reason why he always followed her was because Nora could get out of hand and he would usually reign her in. for the short time he's known her Dante has surprisingly developed a similar way to placate her. Also Nora trusted him almost as much as she does him, not even Jaune worked that fast.

Then again Dante wasn't shy or awkward, he still wasn't sure.

"Can I Renny?" Nora suddenly asked.

His eyes flashed to Pyrrha, she dropped a bombshell on them and the ensuing conversation/ argument wasn't a pretty one. He could tell the decision was eating at her core but honestly it wasn't even theirs to make and right now the team was fragmented at the moment.

"Alright Nora" she could do to blow off some steam.

The girl beamed and looked to Pyrrha a similar confirmation, the redhead flashed a tired smile "I think that sounds…grand"

Nora faltered a bit but nonetheless jumped to her feet "yay~"

"You in Nero?"

Hunting monsters in the forest? That's definitely up the two youngest members' alley however they had their reservations about it. For Ruby she was already on thin ice with Goodwitch about the stunt they pulled on the highway. For Nero they were still working on Red Queen and he wanted to test its new modifications.

So it is with a heavy heart that Nero spoke "not this time."

"Oh, I guess you and Ruby have better things to do huh?"

"Ye-HMPH!?"

"Don't answer that, it's a trap" he spoke with his hand over her mouth.

"Tch"

"Ice queen?"

"No" Weiss growled.

"Brr" Dante mocked shuddered "and the other happy couple" he looked to Blake and Sun.

"Sure" Sun agreed.

"I'll pass" Blake said uncomfortably.

"Verg?"

"I have some business to take care of" he cryptically

"Your loss" he shrugged.

Unknown to everyone, Vergil, Blake and Ren briefly locked eyes with each other and they did a subtle nod.

The Beacon Secret Book Lovers Club will meet again.

"Nep?"

"I" his eyes subtly glanced at Weiss "I, yeah I'm in" he looked from her.

Dante saw the sideways glance to Weiss "you sure about that?"

There was a beat before he nodded "yeah."

"Alright so I guess we-"

Dante paused and he looked in a certain direction along with Vergil, Nero and surprisingly Ruby.

"W-what is that?" the younger Huntress-in-training questioned.

Nero looked to her "you felt that?"

"Uh yeah."

"Felt what?" Yang questioned looking at them.

"Angelic power" Nero informed.

"It seems that Jaune woke up" Vergil deduced.

Pyrrha perked up and Nora exclaimed "really!?"

The truth is Nora and Ren haven't seen their leader since they moved him to the lower levels and Pyrrha has been meeting him behind their backs.

Vergil got up "I'm going to go greet him."

"I'm coming with you" Pyrrha spoke.

"Us too" Nora second.

Vergil paused and that's when Ren spoke in a hushed tone "we already know about the lower levels."

Vergil blinked "well since you put it like that I guess I have no reason to stop you."

"We should go too."

"I don't think we should" Dante spoke.

"Why not?"

"That's cause Ozpin or better yet, Goodwitch won't allow so many people in the basement. We should wait until he comes here."

\

Ozpin and Glynda made their way through the lower levels. He had been in his office when he felt an all too familiar surge of power. The response had been immediate as he made his way to the elevator with Glynda in tow. He couldn't give her a reason as to why he wanted to check on Jaune because he couldn't quite describe what he felt.

They made their way briskly towards where the Fall Maiden was being kept and the light was beginning to fade. It was here that they saw Jaune Arc, his body glowing white and an even brighter light covering Amber.

"Mr. Arc!" Glynda yelled and was about to pull him away from the pod. Glynda found herself barred from doing any further action by Ozpin "sir?"

Ozpin didn't say anything, he only stared at the boy in…awe. Glynda had never seen that expression on Ozpin's face before. Her attention went back to Jaune when he stumbled back and fell on his rear. As the light around Amber diminished the professors chose that time to approach the boy.

"Mr. Arc"

The boy flinched and turned around to come face to face with two of the biggest authorities in Beacon.

He scrambled to his feet "p-professors" he stuttered.

"What were you doing Mr. Arc?" Ozpin questioned calmly.

"Uh" he glanced over his shoulder then back at them "a miracle?" he guessed.

Glynda frowned "this is not the time for jokes Mr. Arc" she said sternly and Jaune shrunk a little, he was always afraid of her.

Ozpin meanwhile approached the pod Amber resided in, the last vestiges of the light receded and it could be his imagination but he could have swore her scarring was more…pronounced than how it currently looked.

Suddenly the machine went off in a series of beeps, getting everyone's attention. Ozpin glanced at it before they rested on the Fall Maiden who began to stir. Ozpin's eyes widened and Glynda saw this and was speechless.

"It can't be" Ozpin whispered.

The brunette's eyes snapped open, she frantically looked around the unfamiliar surroundings, her hands banged on the glass.

"Amber" he tried to speak but she was banging on the glass so hard.

Ozpin went to the control panel to open the door but it was too late. Amber's eyes glowed a menacing amber and with a burst of flames the glass door blew out.

The Fall Maiden stumbled out and groggily held her head "Amber" Ozpin said while slowly approaching her.

Amber's head snapped in his direction, her eyes smoldering brightly and fires building up. Ozpin in turn dropped his cane and raised his hand up in a gesture.

"W-who are you?"

"My name is Ozpin."

"Ozpin" she echoed trying to remember where she knew that name from "where am I?" she demanded leveling her palms out to him where a ball of fire stayed.

"You are at Beacon Academy, in the lower levels."

Beacon, that's where she heard that name before, Ozpin was its headmaster but why was she here? She looked around and saw two more individuals looking at her in bewilderment but for completely different reasons.

"Amber.."

"STAY BACK" she yelled and Ozpin stopped his advance.

Once more she looked at her surrounding trying to figure a way out "what is the last thing you remembered?" he asked.

Amber paused, the last thing she remembered? She was riding her horse…to meet someone. They knew she was a Maiden, which no one was supposed to know. Said there might be people after her and set up a meeting. Her eyes shifted recalling the events.

"I-I was ambushed" she recalled.

"What else do you remember?" Ozpin pressed gently.

"I…we fought and they…they overpowered me" she remembered something hitting her blindspot and she fell then..then.

The flame disrupted and she dropped to her knees clutching her face "Oh Monty!" tears started leaking through her eyes.

She remembered something attaching to her face.

She remembered her power life, her life literally draining from her.

She remembered her face, she was smiling at her, relishing her torment.

Amber's sorrow turned to righteous fury as her eyes glowed like her namesake.

Seeing this Ozpin turned to the blondes "Glynda!" he managed to get out.

"AAAARGH!" There was an explosion of fire when Amber smashed both fist on the ground.

When the flames seceded the technology which held her was completely destroyed, as and soot marked the area. Glynda had hastily erected a Glyph barrier around herself and Jaune who had managed to whip out his shield with surprising speed. Ozpin had his hand outstretched where a swirling green barrier made entirely of his Aura formed around him.

Amber was still crying even when it was over and Ozpin could only feel sympathy for the poor girl. From what he understood she was literally on the brink of death before Qrow saved her, he had seen some promising Huntsmen and Huntresses end their careers for the very same reason.

Ozpin tried to approach her again "Amber-"

"She enjoyed it" she spoke in a hushed tone causing him to pause "when she was sucking the life out of me" she looked at Ozpin, a scowl on her partially scarred features "I looked in her eyes and begged for my life and she smiled at me."

Ozpin's expression was stern "we're doing all we can to find those responsible."

Amber looked at her hand then at the almost destroyed machine "what happened to me…after?"

"Qrow managed before they completely took your powers."

"So that's what they were after" she gave a sardonic scoff "of course they were after that" she spat with a frown.

"He saved your life but you were in critical condition. You would have eventually died if we didn't place you in..stasis so to speak."

"Then how am I, awake right now" she raised a confused eyebrow.

Ozpin turned his head "I believe that question can only be answered by Mr. Arc."

Amber followed his gaze to come face to face with a younger blonde boy who just attached the sword to his hip.

Jaune gave a nervous grin "h-hi, autumn" he said lamely.

The Fall Maiden blinked "it's Amber actually" she corrected with a puzzled expression.

Glynda coughed in her fist "perhaps we should reconvene this conversation once you are more decent Amber"

And with that said everyone now became aware of Amber's state of dress, it wasn't anything risqué. A white strapless sports bra and matching white biker shorts that hugged her hips. Nothing too risqué but Jaune couldn't help but stare at all the uncovered places, like her flat stomach and toned legs.

Amber looked down at herself and gave an "oh" but didn't seem too bothered by it, not like she was in her underwear.

She did catch Jaune staring though and he immediately ceased his ogling by staring her in the eye "sorry" he apologized while scratching the back of his head.

Amber managed to stifle a giggle "I'd be offended if you weren't affected" she quipped and Jaune's eyebrows quirked.

Hey she may not look it but she had proud of her body, if she couldn't get a clearly hormonal teenage boy to look at her then it would be a blow to her pride.

Ozpin watched the scene with a small smile, another unexpected turn of events but he was far from bothered by it. At least now he won't have to be forced to use drastic measures in making sure the Maidens powers don't fall into the hands of those who would misuse them.

"Ugh" Amber stumbles and is caught by Ozpin

"Take some time, you've been in stasis for a long time now"

"How long?"

"8 months"

Amber's eyes widened, 8 months, she'd been stuck here for almost a year. Oh Dust, her family, her life, they must..

"I-I have to go home"

"You can't, we still don't know who those people are. For all we know they could be searching for you as we speak"

Amber gritted her teeth but conceded "what now"

He looked to Glynda "first Glynda will give you back your clothes and weapon"

Said blonde stepped forward "yes now if you'll follow me" Glynda walked away and Amber followed into step.

Jaune watched them go but his attention was detracted by Ozpin "Mr. Arc" he turned to see the Headmaster retrieve his cane "follow me, let's have a discussion about what just occurred" he ordered while walking.

Jaune followed the same direction as the girls who turned off while they went the same direction.

"I believe you have questions as well?"

"Y-yeah"

"You may ask and I will answer to the best of abilities"

"Where are we?"

"We are I the lower levels of the Academy"

"I didn't know we had lower levels"

Ozpin chuckled "it was not meant to be public knowledge Jaune" he said.

That was the first time Ozpin used his first name "so who was that and why was she in that pod"

That was two questions but Ozpin didn't point that out "her name is Amber and to understand why she was in the pod let me ask you, do you know the story of the seasons"

Yes he did…wait.

Then it came to him, "she's the Fall Maiden" he realized, it's the reason why Crocea called her autumn but how did she know her. He didn't know Crocea has been quiet since she healed her.

Ozpin was generally surprised he made that deduction 'peculiar' Jaune was by no means a fool though he acted one but that was more perceptive than usual.

After explaining the gist of what happened to Amber Ozpin can see the deep frown across the boy's features, his grip on Crocea Mors tightened visibly until his knuckles were white.

"There was a 0% chance she would ever wake up from the coma let alone make a full recovery since her power was tied to her Aura, her soul and her assailant drained it. My question to you is, how did you do it Jaune?"

They stopped at the elevator and Ozpin pressed the button to call it down, giving Jaune some time to think of an answer. Crocea Mors was still silent so he gave the only answer he knew

"I don't know."

Ozpin looked at him closely and Jaune met his gaze unflinching which was out of character "you don't?"

"Like I said, I touched the glass and it happened."

That wasn't the whole story Ozpin knew, he was being oddly secretive but for what reason he doesn't know.

*Ding*

"Jaune…"

Ozpin never got to finish his sentence as a pair of loud voices shouted.

"JAUNE!"

"JAUNEY!"

As by instinct Jaune's legs bent and he went low as a pink blur assaulted him. Nora collided with him with the speed of bullet and enveloped him in a bone crushing hug.

No seriously, it was literally crushing him, she was pouring a bit of Aura in her arms and whatever he did to wake Amber took almost all his Aura.

"No..ra, need air…crushing"

Immediately the girl let go with a sheepish look "sorry"

"It's okay" he shrugged rubbing his shoulder a bit.

Nora paused and narrowed her eyes while leaning forward in his personal space.

"Uh Nora" he leaned back "remember that talk we had about boundaries?"

Nora blinked and leaned away with a contemplative expression and circled him while proding different parts of his body.

"Nora."

*Poke* *Poke* *Poke* *Poke*

Jaune sighed and caught her hand "Nora, please stop."

Nora could only stare at his hand holding her own before he let go. She then hummed and gave what Jaune dubbed the 'thinking pose.'

"What?" he asked spreading his arms a little.

It wasn't just her either but switching his gaze he could also see Ozpin, Ren, Vergil and Pyrrha giving him an appraising look.

"Why are you all looking at me like that?" he frowned in confusion.

Vergil coughed "sorry for staring Jaune it's just that you look" he paused "different."

Jaune's eyebrows quirked "I do?" he looked over himself, he didn't feel any different although he supposed he should considering he unlocked some kind of angelic power.

"Yeah~" Nora chirped circling her 'supposed' leader with a suspicious expression "are you sure you're fearless leader?"

Jaune could only raise an eyebrow, he really had no idea what they were talking about "Nora of course it's me who else would it be?" he argued.

In hindsight maybe it wasn't a good idea to ask Nora for her opinion on a conspiracy for the simple fact that her opinion is everyone's opinion. As Nora rattles off the many, many things that could be wrong with her leader the others couldn't help but stare at him.

Now every Hunter who knows their salt on combat can pick up the subtle nuance of an enemy's battle awareness and between a veteran Huntsman, master swordsman, disciplined martial artist and seasoned champion they've definitely picked up more than a few with Jaune.

First of all even though he's engaging in idle chatter, they could see his posture is set in a way that makes for swift retaliation against an opponent. The way how he's gripping Crocea Mors would allow for quick draw of the blade and expansion of the shield. Then again the fact that he's holding the sword instead of clipping it to his hip really says something.

For Pyrrha and even Ren who have known him and been close to him for an entire semester the changes went more deeply. He stood straighter, his voice was slightly deeper and he didn't fumble his words or whine. Pyrrha and Ren glanced at Vergil who shrugged response to their unanswered question.

Vergil eventually coughs loudly, interrupting Nora as he stepped forward "Jaune, how do you feel?"

"I feel fine, actually I feel great. All things considered." He answered truthfully.

"Do you feel different?"

Jaune blinked as he looked at the Nephilm "not really" he frowned a bit while looking at his fist "by the way, I know what you did" he stared right in his eyes,

"What do you mean?"

Jaune took a deep calming breath and glared at him "poured angelic power into Crocea Mors so that I could unlock the angelic power stored inside" he summarized.

Vergil was slightly surprised by this, as was Ozpin and Pyrrha "and how did you come to this conclusion?"

He held up his weapon "Crocea told me."

"I see.."

"What does that mean?" Pyrrha interrupted.

"It means exactly as how Jaune described it. The spirit of his sword informed him about what has happened."

'Things just keep getting more and more interesting' Ozpin thought, he decided to let this play out without interrupting.

Nora zipped over "you mean you talked to your sword!?" she exclaimed "can you do that with Mjonir?" he pushed the weapon in his face.

"Uh, that's not how it works Nora" Jaune replied then turned to Vergil "tell her Verg" he says before making his way to his other teammates.

"Hey Ren, Pyr" he greets.

"I'm glad you are alright" the stoic boy spoke.

"Yeah, turns out I wasn't really in any danger" well he could mention the life and death struggles inside his mindscape but really if he did 'die' he would have just been booted out the mindscape back to consciousness.

"So, did I miss anything?" he looked between them.

Ren's eyes inched to Pyrrha a tad and he turned to his partner "Pyrrha?"

The redhead had been quiet ever since the elevator doors opened, choosing to observe his interactions.

"N-nothing, everything is fine" she replied with a slight stutter.

Jaune's smile dropped and he looked between both of them "alright what's going on? Did something happen while I was out?" he asked bluntly peering into his partner's eyes.

Pyrrha like Vergil before was a little taken aback with his directness "I-" she looked to the headmaster and so did Jaune.

Ozpin's expression sobered "I believe Mr. Arc has a right to know, especially since it wouldn't matter."

Pyrrha was confused by his words "a right to know what?" Jaune spoke "Pyr, what's going on?"

"Allow me to explain Mr. Arc" Ozpin supplied.

By the end of the explanation Jaune was silent, visibly upset but he wasn't lashing out. Ozpin could see by the look in his eyes that the blonde no longer viewed him as before.

Jaune took a long calming breath before he turned to Pyrrha "did you make a decision?"

Pyrrha looks down "no I-" she never got a chance to finish as he hugged her gently "J-Jaune?" to say Pyrrha was shocked would be an understatement

"I'm sorry" he apologized before letting her go and taking a step back for space "and yeah I know I couldn't help not being there but" he paused to look in her eyes "I can tell it's been eating at you."

"You…can?" Pyrrha questioned in mild disbelief.

Of course it's been eating at her, every minute of every day ever since Ozpin told her but she had been confident she could hide it. The least is that seeing him recovered would overwrite the mood she had been in lately.

Jaune smiled "either way it doesn't matter anymore" he placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder.

Now Pyrrha was confused as was everyone else besides Ozpin whom some looked to "it appears that Mr. Arc has performed a" he paused and smiled "miracle."

Just then footsteps could be heard from behind and Jaune stepped aside so as to not obscure her view. In the distance she could see professor Goodwitch walking alongside a dark skinned woman with brown hair. A gasp left Pyrrha's mouth and she covered it, she looked to Jaune in total shock and he could see the question forming.

"I, uh, healed her" he gave the simplest answer as to what he did.

"You…healed her?" she questioned slowly.

"Yeah" he smiled "but don't ask how because I have no idea" he added.

At that moment it felt as if the world was lifted off her shoulders. She looked at Jaune, he did that for her. She..words couldn't possible describe just how much she appreciated what he's done for her. Pyrrha felt like she would cry tears of joy and relief but her disciplined mind absolutely refuse to do so.

The Maiden's powers were a privilege of the highest order for any warrior to have, Ozpin chose her as the next in line to have them. She couldn't, no wouldn't express anything that would affront his decision or the powers.

Any other thoughts were halted when the Maiden approached them, Pyrrha noticed her face was still scarred and she carried a quarter staff with a Dust crystal tied at both ends.

Ozpin looked to the young Maiden "how are you feeling Amber?"

Amber took a moment to contemplate her answer before speaking "I feel…weird" she frowned and looked at her hands.

"But you're okay right?" Jaune questioned a little worriedly.

Amber nodded "yes I'm fine. Jaune was it?"

He nodded "yeah, Jaune Arc."

Amber smiled pleasantly and held out her hand "Amber Russet."

Jaune took her hand and gave a firm shake before the girl pulled him into an abrupt hug "thank you" she whispered shakily in his ear.

Jaune was flabbergasted for a moment but returned the gesture regardless. It was by pure brotherly instinct, he could hear the terror in her voice and could compare it to when his younger sister would run to is room during a thunderstorm.

"No problem" he said sympathetically, whatever happened to her to make her be in that state must have been traumatic.

Amber parted from him and her eyes flickered to Pyrrha, she couldn't help but notice the strange look she was getting from the redhead. Amber then allowed her hands to part from Jaune's and she could see the girl's muscle relax somewhat.

'Could she be..' Amber backed away a bit and noted how Pyrrha advanced a step to be directly beside him.

'Yep, territorial' her eyes flickered between the two of them.

"Hello Amber my name is…"

"Pyrrha Nikos" the Maiden finished "I know, I'm from Mistral."

"Oh" was all the champion managed to say.

"I actually made a lot of money off you in the betting pool during your first tournament" Amber truthfully jests in lieu of the redhead's clear discomfort.

"Well, I- you're welcome?" Pyrrha didn't really know how to respond to that, she was used to making conversations if only because it was required but come on this was the Fall Maiden, a vehemently legendary figure partially responsible for shaping her to be where she is now.

The moment was broken by Jaune's stomach growling earning him glances and a giggle from Nora.

The boy rubbed the back of his head with a nervous chuckle "heh, heh uh did I mention I haven't eaten anything solid in five days?"

An even louder growl accompanied his own and everyone's attention turned to the blushing Fall Maiden "try 8 months" she gave a wry smile.

"Point" he conceded.

With that unanimous decision they entered the elevator and once they arrived at Ozpin's office he stepped out "Amber could I have a moment of your time?"

She raised an eyebrow "um *GROWL* could it wait?"

Ozpin chuckled "I will have something delivered in a moment, please" he urged.

Amber could only sigh as she and Glynda exited the elevator while the others went down. Ozpin took a seat while Glynda went about ordering breakfast

"Can you make that an extra serving please" Amber piped.

Glynda nodded "of course."

"What is it that you want to know Ozpin?"

He took a sip from his mug and placed it down, his expression took one of the utmost seriousness as he steeple his fingers.

"Amber we know that your power or at least part of it was stolen from you" he began and paused "can you please describe your attackers."

Amber gulped, she knew this was coming sooner or later, at least he doesn't beat around the bush with it.

"There were three of them. One was a girl, dark skin with olive green hair and red eyes. The second was a boy with ashen hair and prosthetic legs. The third was" she paused, her mouth turned dry, she swallowed "the third was another woman, older than the other two, I think about my age maybe older, I don't know. Anyway she had amber eyes, black hair and wore a red dress."

Glynda watched on sympathetically as she saw the girl's hands begin to shake.

"I know this is hard for you" Ozpin said sympathetically "but we have reason to believe the person or group is here in Vale" his expression turned Grimm "they may have spies who have infiltrated Beacon."

Amber's eyes widened "what!?" she shot to her feet.

"Calm down" he tried to placate.

"Calm down!? They-"

"We don't know who they might be. If possible and the person who did this is here we can alert our allies if they manage to see them."

Amber sat down and released a breath "I-I'm sorry it's just" she released a puff of air with hands covering her face.

"I know."

Amber sighed again "how do you know its them specifically"

"Before the start of the new year Glynda encountered a woman able to advanced fire spells without a noticeable Dust conduit"

Amber was now wringing her hand.

"She wore a red dress and her eyes glowed amber." Glynda recounted.

"It's her, that happens when I use my Maiden powers" she frowned "I guess its her power now. Am I even the Fall maiden anymore?"

"Of course you are" Ozpin assured adamantly "Amber you are the true Fall Maiden, never doubt that. You were rightfully given your powers while she, whoever this woman is resorted to petty theft. We will find this woman amber and I swear to you I will personally see to the full restoration of your power. "

Glynda had to take a second glance at her friend. Contrary to his cool façade Ozpin is a very passionate person and when he says something he will do all in his power to ensure it happens and seeing the fire in his eyes, if it just so happens that the only way to restore her powers is to end the perpetrator then….

She truly pities the woman.

"I- thank you." Amber said not quite sure to make of Ozpin's statement. She supposed she should be grateful but the way how he said it comes across as…personal to her.

Ozpin nodded "Glynda run those three descriptions through the Academy database. If they should come up with any positive match then please alert me first"

"Understood sir."

"Is there anything else you can tell us?" Ozpin questioned softly.

As if something click, there was something else but "no that's all but may I ask how I got here? I mean I remember someone intervened but I blacked out a second later."

"That would be our associate Qrow, he was the one you were supposed to meet before you were ambushed."

"Is he here?"

"I'm afraid he's on a mission outside Vale."

"Oh" Amber looked a little disappointed she wanted to thank her savior.

There was a lapse of silence only interrupted by Ozpin sipping his coffee.

*GROWL*

"Wow that breakfast is sure taking its time" she joked.

Glynda shook her head slightly while Ozpin smiled "indeed."

"…"

"…"

"..this is a weird transmission but can I use your bathroom?" she suddenly said urgently.

Both professors could only share a glance at the change of topics.

\

Pyrrha sat on the bed inside their dorm, it's the first place Jaune went to instead of the cafeteria. Because he had a iron grip on his sword despite being unconscious they couldn't remove his blazer so they left him with his clothes on for five days. It just didn't feel right to still be wearing his uniform.

That and he had to use the bathroom, like pronto. He actually ran all the way to the dorms with surprising speed right after the elevator doors opened. Pyrrha of course followed but Ren Nora and Vergil decided to go back to the cafeteria.

So here she was sitting on her bed twiddling her thumbs trying to figure out a way to properly convey her thanks for what he did. Or if she should do that? He didn't know, at least not to what extent, he helped her. She was really conflicted though, on one hand she really did want to thank him but on the other hand her pride as a fighter didn't want to reveal any weakness.

That was only part of the reason why she was sticking close.

If Pyrrha were to be honest she just wanted to be near him. She didn't know what it was but ever since she came within close proximity to him she felt, light. He had this aura about him now she couldn't explain that made him more appealing.

She pinched her chin in thought 'it must be that angelic power' she thought.

It made sense, it felt like a weak version of that light she was bathed in before.

*Creak*

Pyrrha's gaze snapped to the door and Jaune walked out decked in his combat gear and Pyrrha didn't know if she was relieved or disappointed. No- she shook her head- she will not go down that road. Pyrrha Nikos will not reduce herself to ogling her partner.

"You know you didn't have to wait for me Pyr" he clipped Crocea Mors to his hip.

"It's alright, I've already eaten breakfast" he eyes drifted to a random textbook "and I figured I could catch you up on what you missed."

Jaune groaned miserably "now I wished I stayed in the coma" he whined.

Pyrrha smiled and stifled a giggle.

"Well we should get to the cafeteria before breakfast is over" he said and they exited the room.

Pyrrha said she'd talk about what he missed but in truth she liked the comfortable silence they lapsed in.

That silence was broken by Jaune "so the dance is today-tonight"

Pyrrha stiffened a little "yes it is."

"Oh, I figured" he paused "so did you get a date? No wait that's a dumb question of course you did, who wouldn't ask you out?"

Pyrrha winced slightly, she wanted to say "you'd be surprised" but refrained.

Instead she smiled wryly "I'm afraid not"

Jaune looked at her with bewilderment "not?" she nodded in confirmation "how? I mean you're" he gestured to all of her as if words couldn't describe her.

Eventually he spoke "you're so awesome, I thought you would be beating guys off you with Milo. I mean I know I would" he added with a shrug before cupping his chin "actually I did"

Pyrrha felt flattered but continued "yes well, not everyone is like you Jaune" she assured.

To her surprise he grimaced "I hope not, that wasn't my finest hour."

Oh right the flirting, he must be referring to Weiss' reaction because she found his attempts humorous at least.

"It wasn't that bad" Monty knows she's experienced worse, much worse and from men much older *shudder.*

"Pyrrha, you pinned me to the locker" he deadpanned.

Her eyes widened, oh shoot she forgot about that. What was she supposed to say to try and salvage this

"I-um. I'm sorry?"

'Stupid, smooth Nikos, really smooth now he hates me'

Jaune barked out a laugh "you don't need to apologize, I deserved it" he said with a sad undertone.

Nobody deserved to be pinned to a locker for harmless flirting.

"So I guess we're both dateless" he went back on topic.

That stiffness came again as she responded "it appears so"

Thump-thump

"Yeah" he looked off to the side a she spoke "well I was thinking…"

She looked to him "yes?"

Thump-thump, thump-thump

"The dance…"

'Is he going to..'

Thump-thump- thump-thump-thump-thump

"You wanna go-"

'Yes'

"together"

'YES!'

"-as friends?"

'NO!'

Pyrrha stared at him before she smiled brightly, trying to subdue her joy a bit.

"I think that would be grand."

Jaune gave her what she dubbed the 'Arc smile' and hers widened just a little.

"Awesome!"

They both entered the cafeteria and while Jaune made a b-line for the food Pyrrha broke off (reluctantly) to join her friends. Jaune came back with a mountain of food for three people

"Hey guys" he greeted putting his heavy tray down.

"Jaune!" Ruby beamed.

"Welcome back to the land of the living vomit boy."

Jaune went to eat and looked around the table. Yang and Dante were across from each other, Sun and Blake were noticeably closer than he remember as were Nero and Ruby. That was expected, what he didn't expect was for Weiss and Neptune to be so far apart. They were all friendly with each other when he was awake.

"So, uh, what did I miss?"

Dante shrugged "nothing much. We were planning on hunting Grimm in the Emerald Forest, wanna come?"

Jaune's eyebrows quirked and Pyrrha's brow furrowed "I don't think it would be a good ide-"

"Sure" he smiled.

Pyrrha and the rest of his team looked at him "Jaune, you just came out of a coma, I don't think it would be wise to do this."

"I already bought my suite for the dance and it's not like I have anything better to do" he shrugged "besides I could use the exercise."

"That a boy Jaune" he stood up "whelp, I think I'm heading for the cliffs, when you're done meet me there so we can solve the forests' overpopulation problem the old fashioned way" he cracked his knuckles.

"Yeah!" Nora cheered with a positively vicious grin

"Hell yes!" yang whooped before something cold on her shoulder caused her to stop.

"You're not going anywhere Xiao Long" Weiss said in a cold voice "we still have last minute adjustments to make before tonight and no I will not cover for you" she paused "on second thought go ahead and do whatever it is you want to do."

"And let you ruin the dance before it even starts? Not happening princess" she looked regretfully at Dante "looks I'll have to take a rain check on that."

"No sweat" Dante smiled and as if just remembering something asked "so anyone asked you to the dance yet?"

"Yep" she said popping the 'p' "I'm still available though."

"Not if you agree to be my date for the dance" he said suavely.

Yang raised an eyebrow "smooth Casanova."

Dante shrugged "is that yes?"

She folded her arms "let me think about that. Hmm~ sure why not but I'm going early to greet the guests so meet me at the dance."

"It's a date" he grinned.

Then as if just realizing they had an audience they both turned their head slightly to see that the entire table and cafeteria was staring at them with a level of incredulity.

They only had one thing to say to the numerous stares ""What?""

\

"I can't believe you did that in front of the entire cafeteria" Sun said.

Dante shrugged "well it's something I've been putting off but better late than never, am I right?"

Sun smiled "yeah, better late than never" he's just glad Blake reconsidered calling it off "so with this I guess we all have dates."

Dante elbowed him gently and shook his head in Neptune's direction.

Sun winced taking a glance at his irritated partner "sorry dude."

Neptune sighed "its fine" he held his head down.

Jaune took note of this "w-wait, you don't have a date to the dance?"

Jaune wasn't sure what his relationship with Neptune would be, yes he was still jealous about him getting in Weiss' good graces faster than him but he effectively gave up asking her out if she was obviously interested in the bluenette like he remembered.

Neptune frowned "no I don't" Jaune looked at him in disbelief "is it that hard to believe I don't have a date?"

"Yes" Jaune, Dante, Sun and Nora said simultaneously.

"Well I don't'

"W-what about Weiss."

Neptune winced, the memory of last night surfacing "she's available I guess, so you can ask her."

Pyrrha's eyes widened in panic and she glanced at Jaune worriedly

He wouldn't abandon her for Weiss would he?

Jaune frowned and shook his head "I'm already going with Pyrrha so, no."

Pause

Everyone looked to the pair and while Pyrrha stiffened, willing her flush away Jaune just looked confused "what? Why are you guys looking at me like that?"

"Did, did you really ask Pyrrha to the dance?" Nora questioned with contained glee.

Did he finally get it? Did he finally see the writing on the wall?

Was she going to be able to collect early on that bet she had with RWBY?

"Well yeah" he seriously had no idea what their problem was.

"Can you say it on record?" Nora shoved a scroll in his face.

Okay this was getting ridiculous, he pushed the scroll away from him "can we go now, please?"

"Oh sure" Dante nodded and they went to DVN's room.

Nora stayed back with Pyrrha and did a silent squeal while holding the girl in a bear hug of bone crunching proportions

"I'm so happy for you!"

Pyrrha smiled uneasily, she just didn't have the heart to tell her about the 'just friends' tag. Then again Jaune didn't say it either, hmm.

\

"Well here we are" Vergil announced.

Jaune looked around "when did you guys install a flat screen TV?" he asked in astonishment.

"Oh that, a few days ago" Dante shrugged.

"So how are we getting to this Bloody Palace?" Neptune raised an eyebrow.

"Yeah" piped Nora with three grenade belts hanging from her frame "I'm ready to smash some demons!"

"Uh Nora, those aren't the experimental grenades are they?" Nora's reply was to give an innocent smile to which Jaune nodded in understanding "oh, okay." He scooted closer to his partner who also looked worried.

Nora's experiments tend to make things go boom in a really big way.

Ignoring this Vergil outstretched his hand with Yamato appearing in blue particles. Before anyone can question what he was about to do Vergil slashed the air opening a blue portal before sheathing his blade.

"Remember Dante, until lunch" he stressed before standing aside.

"Yeah, yeah, let's go guys."

Dante went in first, Sun trusted Dante so he braved inside, Neptune followed more warily while Nora barreled through and finally Jaune led a reluctant Pyrrha inside. Vergil then set the timer and closed the portal.

'I can't believe I let him talk me into this' he sighed.

To Be Continued

Author's Notes: I really planned for the dance to be included in this chapter but then I wrote and the conversation went into Dante's random suggestion of fighting Grimm in the Emerald forest. But then I thought it was too bland not to mention this was a Jaune-centric chapter and JNPR had been the least exposed to demons then I thought…Bloody Palace.

Hey if it can be room where you fight hordes of demons in the game it sure as hell can be a room in that big ass mansion to help keep them in shape. It sounds plausible when you think about it. In the DmC game Dante goes to a bunch of different rooms where he basically gets Ophion and traverses the place, hell demons even pop up to fight him.

Why can't Eva and Sparda (ancient and powerful, angel and demon) make a sort of training room for their children to fight demons under their supervision?

So yeah, hence Bloody Palace.

Now I think you all get the chapter title wasn't just for Jaune. Yes Amber has been awakened, it's a miracle. I'm sorry it was totally spur of the moment but the more I think about possible plot points for this character the more I thought she just had to be there. I personally think her character is too much of a tragedy to leave her like that and while it would be cool to have Pyrrha get Maiden powers I know with her character it would eat at her and she'd be all mopy.

So I had Jaune heal her, a testament to his new power and how powerful he is.

With new characters I always like to add a lighthearted side to them, I think she's from Mistral and not Vale because of a few simple facts. Cinder claims to be from Mistral and at the end of Vol 3 Ruby's investigation they went to Mistral.

Next chapter I wrap up the character development and fluff.