"Speaking"
'Thinking'
"Attacking/Beast"
Volume 0: Chapter 4. A Leader
(With Naruto)
Luggage in hand, Naruto strolled casually into the open courtyard of Beacon Academy. His eyes growing wide with wonder at the new environment around him. Considering everything from the architecture of the buildings to the surrounding climate was so vastly different to Atlas. Something that made Naruto slightly sweat, as he was accustomed to frigid temperatures and not the warm weather he was experiencing. So removing his jacket and tie, Naruto rolled the sleeves of his undershirt to better accommodate himself in this heat. Doing this Naruto quickly tucked away his jacket and tie, while his eyes gazed at the hundreds of young students walking around the academy. Amazed at how everyone seemed to be from all walks of life and mixed together peacefully.
"This sure isn't like home." Naruto commented in wonder, as he began to walk by crowds of students talking to one another. Yet as Naruto walked by several groups of students chatting with one another, the blond felt slightly out of place.
This was because all these students already seemed to be in tightly knit groups, which was expected. Considering a large majority of the students at Beacon had attended neighboring combat schools, while Naruto himself was from a different kingdom. A kingdom where his one and only friend was now experiencing her first day within Atlas Academy without him.
"I hope Winter is doing okay." Naruto mumbled to himself, as his mind was quickly absorbed with the thoughts of his closest friend. Who he hadn't spoken with in months and that was starting to weigh heavy on his heart. "I should have talked to her before I left." Regret flooding his mind, Naruto walked closer to where the orientation for first year students would be held. However, in the distance Naruto's eyes grew wide in disbelief, as in the distance he saw a slender figure with white hair tied back. Making the blond's chest tighten as he slowly grew closer to the person.
"Winter is that you?" Naruto called out and frowned as the individual didn't respond. So drawing closer Naruto tried his hardest to gain the person's attention. "Winter!"
The person in question finally turned to face Naruto, which instantly discouraged the blond who found the individual was some random girl with white hair. Who held next to no other resemblance to Winter whatsoever.
"Can I help you dude?"
Holding his hand up and stepping away, Naruto waved his hand around. "Sorry, I thought you were someone I knew."
Walking away awkwardly, Naruto slightly cursed himself at the embarrassing situation he created. Thinking that he already wasn't on the best track on making his first day at Beacon a good one.
"At least I didn't puke on the airship or cause some dust explosion. It would take a real idiot to do that." Naruto grumbled as he made his way into the large auditorium filled with first year students. Then by spotting an open area, Naruto carried his belongings and waited for the orientation to begin. His eyes gazing around and taking notice of all his fellow first year students, while his ears sharply tuned into the conversations happening around him.
"You think we will get our team placements today?"
"Where are the dorms?"
"Hey has anyone seen a small black wallet? I think I've lost mine."
"I hope I'm not on a team with a bunch of losers."
"It's so loud in here!"
"Hey what happened to my bracelet!"
"Do you think there are any students here from other kingdoms?"
"Yo dude check out that total hottie!"
"Am I late?"
Naruto sighing to himself as he listened to more and more of his fellow students couldn't help himself from growing slightly annoyed by all the ruckus. He was exhausted from his travels and wanted more than anything to find a place to settle down and relax. However, the room suddenly grew rather silent, as Professor Ozpin emerged before everyone. Then with a slow and tactful approach, the headmaster stopped before a microphone and looked out into the silent crowd. Then as his eyes lingered overtop of Naruto, the blond found the man's gaze practically piercing through him.
"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. Yet your time within this academy will prove how hard it truly is to control the hands of fate. A lesson I hope many of you learn from, as you will discover despite your best efforts there are things out of your control. Today will be your first taste of this lesson, as you shall receive your team placements now upon random selection."
With this declared the room burst to life with mumbles and murmurs, as no one anticipated Ozpin to place teams together so quickly in such a random fashion. Naruto merely crossed his arms and studied the man, who was holding his hand up to silence the crowd.
"For some of you today is the day you make a life long comrade. For others you may find yourself at opposition with the individuals you're paired with. Despite this you must learn to adapt and grow with your team, as you're stuck with them for the next four years. So I implore you to learn from this experience and use it to not only make yourself a better huntsman and huntress, but a better person as well. With that said let's begin the placements."
Naruto watched in anticipation along with every other first year, as a giant screen split into four sections slowly began to flash through every first year one by one. The screen would then stop and the student would come before Ozpin followed by the rest of their team. Then once they were given their team name and dorm room, they were allowed to leave. Naruto himself saw his picture and name flash a few times, but each time the selection screen would flash over him and select someone else.
This of course caused Naruto's nerves to slightly grow, as he was getting more and more curious to who he would be paired along with. Yet with each group that was selected the room would grow smaller and smaller, which caused Naruto to look around and try to guess who he would be paired along with. Despite this as the first portrait on the screen stopped, Naruto's heart began to beat as Ozpin smiled and extended his hand by his side.
"Naruto Ironwood." Ozpin spoke in a rather amused voice, as the blond slowly walked to the man's side. Though this wasn't without people talking among themselves, as they pointed at Naruto. Something the blond caught onto, as many were questioning if he was related to the headmaster of Atlas Academy.
Naruto himself didn't pay attention to this and merely took a stand by Ozpin, while his eyes gazed out into the crowd. Wondering who would join his side, as his back was turned to the screen.
"Gretchen Rainart."
Watching with interest, Naruto saw a girl with tanned olive skin slowly walk towards the stage. Gretchen was quite tall for a girl, as Naruto noticed she easily matched his height of six feet tall. Yet despite her height she still managed to retain a very curvy athletic frame. Her choice of fashion was much different than Naruto's own, as she wore black pants and a matching shirt that tightly hugged her body, while a short sleeve green trench coat was worn overtop. Yet as the girl stopped by Naruto's side he gave his new teammate an infectious grin. One which she returned with a beaming smile of her own, giving Naruto a good gauge of her character from the get go.
"Roman Torchwick."
Hearing the next name, Naruto snapped his gaze to the individual approaching through the crowd. Roman unlike Gretchen was a male who had slanted dark green eyes and bright long orange hair, while long bangs covering his right eye and a black bowler hat sat atop his hair. Roman like Naruto wore a suit, but his was a red-lined white suit with long black pants and black shoes. Meanwhile his accessories included a small gray scarf and black gloves with buckled sleeves. From first impressions alone, Naruto at least seemed neutral with Roman. Since he carried himself with class, but that wasn't enough to gauge the teenager fully.
"And last, but certainly not least. Amber."
With the final member selected, Naruto watched as another female approached the stage. Amber had a light brown complexion with shoulder length straight brown hair. She had hazel brown eyes, while below her left eye was a small beauty mark. For clothing she wore a white blouse with frill detailing on the shoulders and a pleated lower half with a central split alongside a brown vest that had three straps and golden lining around the collar. Amber also had a dark brown corset with matching pants, as well as a pair of brown thigh high boots with large cuffs and golden armour plating covering the boots up to her knees. Finally had a pendant on her vest, a gold bracer on her left arm, and two gold bracelets on her right wrist. Yet, as Naruto watched the girl approach the stage he caught a small nod shared between both Amber and Ozpin. Making Naruto wonder if there was some sort of connection between the two.
"Naruto, Gretchen, Roman and Amber. From this day forward you will work together as team NGRA(Angora) lead of course by Naruto Ironwood."
Surprised by this sudden declaration, Naruto watched his new teammates clap for him, while Ozpin merely handed him a set of keys for their new dorm.
"It looks like things are shaping up to be an interesting year. I wish you the best of luck Mr. Ironwood." Ozpin declared, as he watched Naruto slowly walk away with his new team following behind.
(Team NGRA's dorm)
Walking into the dorm together, each member of Team NGRA quickly claimed a spot with their luggage and soaked in the experience of their new room in silence. Considering each member didn't know one another in the slightest. So their current dynamic was a little awkward and lackluster.
"Well it could be worse and I've certainly had worse." Roman began, as he was the first of the group to finally speak up. "But I think this should be suitable for the next four years."
Gretchen throwing her body back into her bed smiled as she felt the surprisingly comfortable bed absorb her impact. "Yeah I can definitely get used to this!"
Amber making her way over to their window, stopped and peered outside. "The view isn't half bad either."
Naruto, noticing everyone making an effort to break the ice, decided he should speak up as the official team leader. So mustering the best smile possible, Naruto walked into the center of the room and held his hand up.
"Well this wasn't how I pictured getting my team, but I think it's best we all get to know each other a little more." Naruto began softly, while the rest of the team all turned and looked directly at him. "We already know each other's names, but maybe we could share some more about ourselves?"
"Sounds like a solid idea to me!" Gretchen replied with enthusiasm.
"I agree." Amber added in.
Roman merely shrugged his shoulders and smirked. "Well our fearless leader, why don't you start us off?"
Rubbing the back of his head and thinking to himself, Naruto took a second to think over what he should share with his new team. Considering Naruto wasn't exactly the most socially adjusted person among his age group. This mainly attributed to Naruto's friend's boiling down to Winter and then a bunch of individuals more than twice his age. Meaning Naruto wasn't shy by any means, but he didn't know how to properly communicate in casual conversation with people his age.
"Well I was born and raised in Atlas and graduated top in my class from my combat school. I also doubled as an assistant for a famous Atlas scientist Doctor Pietro Polendina. Who I earned my doctorate in robotic engineering from. Then I- . . ."
Naruto was suddenly stopped by Roman's loud yawn piercing the room. "Boring, I don't care about all your accolades and accomplishments, Ice King. What do you like? What's your dislikes? Are you always this uptight or is that an Atlas thing?"
Naruto's eyes slightly twitching, the blond simply nodded for the sake of being polite and making a good impression. Yet within his mind he was yelling in anger, as how dare Roman call him uptight? He wasn't Winter or so the blond thought. However, Naruto's thoughts were distracted by Gretchen standing to her feet and folding her arms.
"Roman makes somewhat of a good point, if not a little rude in his approach." The massive girl began, which caused the orange haired teen to scoff. "But I would also like to know why you three have decided to become huntsmen and huntresses."
"I see, in that case I like ramen along with my Father and friends. I enjoy bettering myself as a scientist and huntsman. I dislike arrogant bastards, racists and people who prey on others. As for my reasons for becoming a huntsman. Well I always grew up listening to stories from my Father and Uncle about how they saved people in need. In a way they inspired me to become someone who could save everyone. So that's why I am here."
Gretchen smiled wide and released a loud laugh. "That's very admirable of you Naruto! I myself wanted to be a huntress for similar reasons. Except I didn't have anyone telling me epic and heroic tales. Actually my twin brother was completely against me becoming a huntress, but he's just stubborn! However, he's the only family I've got and someone I still hold dear. I must also say I agree with your dislikes, as they are very similar to my own! Though as for my likes I enjoy indulging in some sweets and training to be stronger."
Roman rolled his eyes and leaned his back against the wall. "So the uptight ice king and the brute get along swimmingly. Who would have figured?"
Naruto glared at his new teammate, while Gretchen cracked her fingers. Yet before either could speak their minds, they were both beat by Amber. Who simply looked at Roman with a rather neutral expression.
"It seems you're quite judgmental of others. Perhaps that speaks volumes of your fragile emotions and self worth."
"Ohhoo, look who has a set of claws!" Roman began, as he slapped his leg in amusement. "You might make these four years tolerable."
"And shifting the subject away from yourself rather fast, which only proves my point even more." Amber pointed out, as she walked forward and lifted her brow. "So tell me, what could someone like you be doing here? It's obviously not out of some desire to help others or be a better person."
Roman laughed and held his hands out. "Why for the only two things that matter in this world sweetheart. Money and survival! I'm lookin into this huntsman game for the long con and nothing else!"
Amber shook her head and sighed. "So you're only looking out for yourself?"
"That's how you get ahead in life sweetheart. Though please tell me, what noble cause brought you to Beacon?"
Hearing the obvious sarcasm within Roman's words, Amber merely rested a hand onto her hip and looked directly at the teenager.
"You make it sound like it was my choice to come here. I hate to surprise you, but it wasn't. I have no desire to be a huntress nor do I wish to know any more about you."
Roman and Gretchen both seemed confused by Amber's words. Naruto on the other hand began to think over the girl's words, while recalling the glance he caught her and Ozpin sharing. Wondering to himself if there was some unknown connection between his new teammate and headmaster. However, Naruto placed those thoughts away for another time, as currently he was trying to learn more about his new team. A group exercise that was slowly crumbling into a mess, which Naruto knew he had to try and fix.
"You know since we have all shared something about ourselves, maybe we should do something to commemorate our team coming together?"
Gretchen tilted her head. "Like a picture?"
"It's overdone, but not an awful idea." Amber added in casually.
"Or." Roman began as he presented a fresh cigar from his pocket for everyone to see. "We could share a group smoke."
Naruto seemed visibly against the idea and furrowed his brow. "I don't think that's a good idea, besides where did you get that? We aren't even old enough to buy tobacco."
Roman rolled his eyes and grabbed a lighter. "I'm a man of opportunity and as such I took an opportunity to procure a few cigars before coming to Beacon."
"So you stole them?" Amber asked in a dry voice.
Roman held his hand up as the cigar was already in his mouth. "Uh uh uh, it's only stealing if you're caught. So I can firmly say I've never stolen anything in my life."
"You're truly an awful person." Naruto grumbled, as he watched Roman blow a plume of smoke.
"And you need to loosen up Ice King or at least get that stick out of your ass."
Turning red in anger, Naruto stomped the ground and looked directly at the carefree teen as a feeling of familiarity came over him. Making Naruto swear he had been through this exact situation before, but something felt slightly off. Yet still the blond acted without thinking and pointed a finger at Roman in anger.
"I'll shove a stick up your ass imbecile!" Naruto yelled in response as his eyes suddenly went wide. Since Naruto's mind clicked as to what he was actually saying. 'I'm really missing Winter so much I'm turning into her. . . fuck.'
As Naruto was having his inner turmoil, Gretchen sighed and stepped forward and tried to play peacemaker. "Let's just take a group photo and be done. It's getting late and I'm sure everyone would like to get some rest before our classes begin tomorrow."
"That's a good idea." Amber repiled, as she quickly found one of Gretchen's arms around her shoulder. Then showing visible discomfort, Amber was suddenly pulled in tight to Gretchen. However, she wasn't the only one, as Gretchen used her other arm to grab Naruto and pull the blond into her other side.
"Come over here Roman!" Gretchen yelled happily, which caused the teen to sigh and walk to Amber's side.
Then with Naruto and Amber both being pulled tightly into a grinning Gretchen. The giant girl held a scroll up and started to angle a picture of their team together. Making sure to include Roman, who was standing closely to Amber with a cigar in hand.
"Smile!" Gretchen ordered, as the rest of Team NGRA smiled, except for Roman who gave a rather cocky smirk. "And perfect!"
"Great now to finish this and relax!" Roman declared, while walking over to his bed.
"Or you could not stink up our room and put that out." Amber grumbled in an annoyed voice. "Seriously do you only think of yourself?"
"Yeah I'm with Amber on this one."
"Crack the window if you're going to complain!"
"Or I could crack you?" Gretchen offered, as she glared at Roman and slowly made a fist with her right hand. An action that caused Roman to sigh and put out his cigar.
"Look it's gone! Are you happy brute?"
Hearing the arguing between his team, Naruto sighed and walked towards the door. "Well I'm off to the CCT Tower to make a call home. It would be nice if you guys don't kill each other while I'm gone."
Watching Naruto exit the room, Roman scoffed and threw his hand forward at the blond.
"Yeah whatever!"
Being left with Gretchen and Roman, Amber merely took a bow and walked to the door. "I have to go speak with someone as well. Though I hope I don't have to reiterate our leader's request."
"Don't worry about us!" Gretchen replied happily, as she gave a simple thumbs up. "At worst I'll just break his spine. Well that's if he has one."
"How dare you! You overgrown brute!"
Amber merely rolled her eyes and left the room. "You know what? On second thought I don't care what you do."
(With Naruto)
Seated at a terminal within the CTC Tower, Naruto waited impatiently as a communication link between himself and Atlas was being established. Yet as Naruto waited in silence and the time went by, he began to wonder if his father was too busy for his call. After all today was the first day for Atlas Academy and Naruto knew from experience the first day of the semester was always a busy one for the General. However, after what felt like an eternity, but was actually only a few minutes. Naruto's call finally went through and he was greeted with the happy grin of his father.
"Naruto." James began in a calm, but firm voice. "I'm glad you took some time to call your old man. Here I thought you would have forgotten about me by now!"
Naruto laughed and flashed his trademark smile.
"And here I thought you would be too busy for your wayward son. Seems we were both in for a surprise."
"It would seem so, but tell me. How is Beacon treating you? Ready to come home yet?"
Naruto shook his head. "Beacon has been good so far, different from home, but good. So sorry to say I won't be running home any time soon."
"I'm happy you're enjoying yourself so far, have you met Ozpin yet?"
"Briefly." Naruto admitted, which slightly raised James interest. "He spoke to me for a few seconds after giving me my team placements."
At this revelation James was surprised, as even he didn't anticipate Ozpin forming teams so soon. "Wait so you already have your team? How did Ozpin manage that? You haven't even been at Beacon for a full day."
"Well he gave this big speech about adapting to things out of your control and before we knew it he started randomly assigning all first years to random teams."
"Hmmm, well tell me about your teammates!"
Naruto sighed softly and leaned backwards, while massaging his eyes. "Man where to begin with those three!"
James snickered at his son's reaction. "I would believe names are a good start."
Naruto nodded and looked back to his father. "Yeah I guess you're right Dad. Anyways their names are Gretchen Rainart, Roman Torchwick and Amber."
James was slightly interested at the last name, but didn't let his emotions show so. "Well who is the leader of this bunch?"
"You're looking at him." Naruto grumbled in an annoyed voice as he waved his hand around. "The apparently uptight leader of Team NGRA, Naruto Ironwood."
"Sounds like you are having a rough time with your new teammates."
"You think?" Naruto replied as he blew some air between his lips. "I mean Gretchen isn't bad, just a little too forward. Roman on the other hand is already a complete pain in my ass! I haven't even known him for a day and he annoys me almost as much as Winter! Then there is Amber! I mean I can get a solid read on the first two, but Amber is impossible to figure out. I can't tell if she hates us, likes us or what! Plus she gives me these really strange vibes I just-. . ."
"Naruto." James cut in softly, as he flashed his son a smile. "May I offer you some advice? Leader to leader?"
Slumping down into his seat, Naruto nodded his head. "Sure."
"Being a leader isn't a title you take into battle, but a badge you wear constantly. If you're not always performing at your absolute best, then what reason do you give others to follow you? Being a leader is a daunting task where everyone looks to you for guidance and answers. You may not always agree or even like those around you, but that cannot stop you from being your best. Because only a great leader can bring out the best in their subordinates, while a bad leader will only bring ruin. Do you understand what I'm saying?"
"Yeah I think so Dad. Just be the best I can be and not get hung up on the smaller things?"
"Precisely, see you've got the marking of a great leader already!"
Naruto grinned. "Just like my old man."
"That's right." James replied, as a voice caused James to snap his vision to the side. Then after a moment the General nodded with a stern expression and turned to his son. "Sorry Naruto, but it looks like there are still some things that need my attention."
"It's okay Dad, I'll catch up with you another time!"
James nodded at this and said his goodbye before ending the call, leaving Naruto alone with his own thoughts. However, as Naruto sat in his chair he began to reminisce of all the things he didn't get to talk to his father about, while one thing in particular made him slump forward.
"I should have asked about Winter." Naruto sighed in frustration, as he found the girl taking more and more of his thoughts recently. "You know what! I'm going to go crazy at this rate so I'm just going to man up and call her!"
Making the proper preparations to make a connection between himself and Winter. Naruto waited idly over the console and bit his lip, as he debated with himself if he should call the girl on not. On one hand he had gone through incredible lengths to avoid the girl while he was back at Atlas. So he had to wonder if he was finally ready to face the girl since his incident. Yet despite that, Naruto was now missing his best friend more than anything. A feeling that was over taking everything else Naruto was thinking about.
"I mean at least she can't strangle me when I'm in a completely different Kingdom. So maybe talking to her like this might be the best move!"
Convincing himself on the idea, Naruto took a large breath to compose himself and finally hit the call button. Then sitting in silence, Naruto waited for the connection to be established. Luckily it didn't take long for Naruto's call to go through and to his surprise he was greeted with the sight of Winter Schnee.
However, upon seeing his best friend, Naruto found his voice stolen from him and couldn't think straight. Winter on the other hand was dressed in a nightgown with her hair down, showing she was preparing herself for bed. Yet her expression was colder than usual and the glare she was giving Naruto was practically drilling a hole into his forehead. Giving the blond clear indicators that Winter wasn't in the best of moods, but she still didn't have any expressions of anger. Though Naruto knew Winter better than anyone and could tell her current expression was built on pure rage and frustration.
"U-um hey Winter." Naruto began softly, as he slowly lifted his hand to wave at the girl. Quickly flinching as he noticed the girl didn't even move or speak. A reaction that made Naruto slightly curl his fingers. "How was your first day at Atlas Academy?"
There was a pause of silence as Winter kept her eyes directly onto Naruto and didn't move an inch. Making the blond slightly shutter and think of something else.
"Knowing you I bet you've already taken over the entire school!" Naruto tried to joke, but still had no success at getting through to the girl. So maybe he needed to take a different approach? "Have you made any new friends?"
Winter merely folded her arms, which was an improvement, but not by much. However, this allowed Naruto to see a pair of white gloves on the girl's hands. They were hardly noticeable at first, but now Naruto's attention was drawn onto them. An observation that instantly made Naruto realize why she was wearing them, but chose to not make a point of them. Considering it would most likely open up a rather painful conversation.
"You know I got assigned as a team leader for my own team. Could you imagine me, of all people, leading a team?" Naruto asked, while laughing to himself and rubbing the back of his head. "They are a weird bunch, but hopefully I can be a good leader for them."
Naruto watched Winter slowly move her arms and lean forward, almost like she was moving to end the call. An action that made Naruto jerk forward and grip his hands around the screen. Knowing if he didn't do something he wouldn't get another opportunity to voice himself.
"Winter wait!" The blond began desperately, as he noticed the girl freeze and look at him. Then realizing she was giving him one final chance to speak, Naruto lowered his head against the table and started to tremble. "I'm sorry for what I did. I hurt you more than once and I'm sorry. Please forgive me!"
Naruto lifted his head up to face Winter once more, tears slowly leaking in the corners of his eyes as his emotions were getting the best of him. Yet Winter still kept a rather blank and neutral face, while her finger danced over the hang up button.
"I miss you."
Hearing Naruto's last words, Winter closed her eyes and seemed to take a deep breath. Giving Naruto a slight amount of hope that they were finally getting somewhere. However, without opening her eyes or saying anything. Winter nudged forward and ended the call leaving Naruto alone in silence. Then as Naruto realized what had happened, the blond simply slammed his head into the table before him and mumbled the simple truth.
"I'm such an idiot."
(With Winter)
With the call finally over, Winter's emotions returned to her and she began to shake from head to toe. However, despite her current state she was proud of herself. Since not only had she held her ground, but she had taken her first power move in getting back at Naruto.
"Maybe that will make him think twice about ignoring me for so long!" Winter declared loudly, while gripping her fists tightly.
Quickly scooping up her scroll, Winter began to glance through her contacts. "Now to call back and accept his apolo-. . . No bad! I'm giving that Imbecile a taste of his own medicine and then some!"
Winter quickly dropped her scroll and folded her arms, but as she jerked her head away. The young girl found herself glancing back to the device out of the corner of her eye.
"But then again he seemed- . . . No he deserves this! But I miss him too. . . ahhh son of a bitch!"
From across the room there was a group of girls who were sharing the space with Winter before their team selections in the morning. Each one watching the girl yell and squirm around her scroll like a madwoman. All of them silently thinking the same exact thing.
'That girl has problems.'
(With Amber)
Standing before the desk of Professor Ozpin himself, Amber kept a rather emotionless expression. The man with two souls on the other hand simply extended his hand to the side of the room.
"Would you care for a cup of coffee?"
Glancing to a small table with a freshly brewed pot of coffee, Amber merely shook her head. "I'll pass, but thanks anyways Ozpin."
The headmaster nodded and took a drink from his own mug. However, after placing his coffee back onto his desk. Ozpin gave a friendly smile and reclined back into his seat.
"So tell me Amber, what do you think of your new team?"
Folding her arms and lifting her brow, Amber scoffed. "You want the honest answer or the sugar coated version?"
"I prefer honesty." Ozpin replied with a soft laugh.
"Well for starters Gretchen is overbearing and I can already tell will get on my nerves. Yet she's doing better than Roman, who is a complete jerk who only looks out for himself. I mean seriously Ozpin, why did you let someone like him into Beacon?"
"I prefer to give everyone an opportunity to better themselves and grow as an individual. Mr. Torchwick is no exception to this." Ozpin explained, while he lifted his brow and leaned forward. "But tell me, what about your leader? What's your opinion on Naruto Ironwood?"
"He hasn't admitted it, but I've gathered enough to assume he's the son of Atlas Academy's headmaster." Amber began, which caused Ozpin to simply nod.
"Yes he's the General's son. Does that add into your assessment of him?"
"That depends. Does he know what I am?"
"Naruto hasn't been told anything about the Maidens or Salem from his father. So with that being said my initial question still stands."
Amber sighed and folded her arms.
"He holds himself with discipline and confidence, which is no doubt related to his military family background. Yet that persona of the General's son has its obvious cracks and I've seen it first hand when Roman got under his skin. So I can assume my first impression of Naruto is the fake version he had developed due to his father's status. Meanwhile his true personality is the one he rarely shows to anyone he isn't close with. So as a leader I'm not for him because I don't truly know who he is yet, but his talents and accomplishments at least make him the best candidate out of the four of us."
Ozpin kept a calculated gaze, as he thought over Amber's words. "Mr. Ironwood is an interesting person, but despite all his accomplishments and abilities he has one crucial flaw that I feel you must know."
"And that is?"
"His semblance is something which he has no control over and is highly dangerous. You see he gets increased physical attributes along with astonishing regeneration, but the more he seems to use the less control he has over himself. James, Naruto's father actually asked me to help Naruto learn to control this semblance, which is one of the reasons Naruto is at Beacon."
Amber lifted her brow. "So why are you telling me this? Are you warning me to avoid him?"
"Don't get me wrong Amber when I say you should tread with caution around Naruto. However, you said it yourself. There is a side to Naruto that people do not often see. So I merely ask that you try and find that side and extend a helping hand to Naruto with his semblance. Since you're one of the best people I know to help."
At this Amber scoffed. "So you want the Maiden to babysit her leader and stop him if he gets out of hand? If that's the case just be more honest and stop being so cryptic Ozpin."
Hearing this Ozpin gave Amber a deathly serious gaze. "Trust me Amber, Maiden or not. From what I've seen of Mr. Ironwood when he loses control. There isn't a single thing you could do to stop him by yourself."
Amber was actually stunned by the man's tone, as this side of him was a rare instance she had only seen a few times. "I'm confused Ozpin, what exactly do you want me to do?"
"It's simple, I need someone to help and watch Naruto in my stead. I certainly can't devote all my time to doing so. You however, are not only someone I can trust, but also in a perfect position to help Naruto. So with that said will you?"
Turning towards the exit, Amber merely waved the man off. "I'll think about it Ozpin, but don't get your hopes up. You're lucky I'm even here after all."
Ozpin lowered his head and sighed, as he knew this was as far as the conversation could go. "All I ask is that you try, but we can talk about this another time."
"Yeah I'm getting tired anyway. So I'll talk to you later Ozpin."
(The Next Day)
Today was Naruto's official first day of classes and currently the blond couldn't be more bored. Yet this wasn't because Naruto hated lectures and learning, as thanks to his upbringing it was quite the opposite. However, as Naruto sat and listened to his professor speak he found himself already knowing everything the man was saying. So with a slight look of disappointment, Naruto rested his head on top of his hand and gazed off into the distance.
Though Naruto's lack of attention was quickly noticed by his professor. The latter of whom coughed into his hand and looked directly at Naruto.
"Now Mr. Ironwood, I hope my class isn't boring you." The calm and collected voice of Professor Port began, as Naruto snapped his eyes to the man. "
"Not at all Professor." Naruto replied with a friendly smile, which made the man's face turn into a scowl.
"Well from here it looks like you're daydreaming instead of paying close attention."
Naruto laughed and waved his hand around. "I promise you have my full and undivided attention."
Port lifted his brow, while Naruto's team who were all by the blond's side waited to see what the man would say.
"In that case why don't you please inform me more about the Geist classification of Grimm that we were just discussing."
Naruto sighed softly and closed his eyes. "A Geist is a possession type Grimm that can control different forms of matter as extensions of their own body. They are tricky creatures because destroying the matter they are controlling doesn't defeat the Geist, as they can just possess something else. So the most effective way to kill a Geist is to expose their true body and then go for the kill. They sound annoying, but I've dealt with one or two Geist back home."
The class looked towards Naruto with awe, as the boy clearly displayed knowledge of Grimm that was expected of a well seasoned huntsman. However, as Port chuckled and rubbed his mustache the man earned all eyes on him.
"You're absolutely correct and well done Mr. Ironwood!" The teacher began with a friendly tone that slightly inflated Naruto's ego. "However, If you were paying attention you would have known we were not talking about the Geist classification of Grimm, but instead talking about proper huntsman edict because this class covers the laws and guidelines a huntsman must follow. So start paying more attention."
A few snickers going throughout the room, Naruto nervously rubbed the back of his head. "Heh sorry about that professor."
"No need to apologize, I just want you to become the best huntsman possible!" Port declared boldly, as he held his hands out. "And that sentiment goes out to everyone."
The class all absorbed the man's words, but before he could follow up the dismissal bell sounded off. An alarm that caused everyone to jump out of their seats and dash out of the room like a horde of angry Grimm. Even Naruto's own teammates ran off on their own, which just showed the disconnect between the group. However, Naruto was the exception to this, as he instead walked up to Port's desk with a smile.
"I'm sorry for not paying more attention. I promise to show more engagement in your class from now on."
The man watched the blond bow and merely smiled. "I respect that, even if you might be a little advanced for my class. Though it would seem your father taught you more than just how to fight. You're quite the polite and respectful young man."
"You're too kind, but if you'll excuse me I have to get going." Naruto replied in a rather hurried tone, as he jogged towards the exit of the classroom.
Port waved the blond off and called out a mere warning of. "No running in the halls." Though Naruto was already well out of reach of the man's words. In fact Naruto was already speeding his way towards his next class, but started to slow down the moment he heard chanting.
"Fight! Fight! Fight!"
Coming to a near stop, Naruto slowly walked over to a large crowd of yelling students. "Amber?" The blond called out, as he saw one of his teammates at the edge of the crowd. "What's going on?"
The girl in question turned to her leader and rolled her eyes, while jerking a thumb over her shoulder to the crowd. "Roman bumped into some guy and now they are having some petty macho throw down."
Leaning to where he could look passed Amber, Naruto saw Roman who was squaring up against some unfamiliar black haired student. Meanwhile their fourth teammate Gretchen was in the front of the crowd and loudly cheering the orange haired boy on.
"Kick his ass Roman!"
Hearing this Naruto sighed and looked back to Amber. "Is someone going to stop this?"
"I don't see any teachers and I'm surely not getting involved." Amber replied in a completely uninterested voice, while she began to walk off. "If you want to stop him, act like a team leader and do it yourself. I'm going to my next class."
Watching Amber walk away, Naruto was frustrated that he still couldn't figure the girl out. Since he couldn't tell if she was being helpful or spiteful to him. Yet Naruto knew she was right about him having to take action as a leader. So stepping through the crowd, Naruto pushed his way by several students to get into the action.
"Well Junior I'm waiting!" Roman taunted as he bounced back in forth in a fighting stance. Ready to throw a punch at a moment's notice. "Come on or are you scared?"
The boy in question gritted his teeth and held both his fists up to fight. "For the last time you asshole, my name is Hei Xiong."
Roman scoffed. "Like I care about that, you act like a little child. So I'll call you Junior."
"Please you're both acting like children." The voice of Naruto began in a stern and confident voice, while he stepped in between the two boys.
"Well if it isn't my fearless leader. How about you walk off Ice King?"
Naruto sighed and lowered his head from exhaustion. His team wasn't exactly a close knit group by any means and that was something Naruto wanted to fix. So trying to follow his father's advice, Naruto knew he had to be a better leader that could bring his team together. However, to get on the proper track of being a good leader, Naruto had to overcome several hurdles like the one before him now.
"Roman, just walk away from this."
Hei laughed and folded his arms. "Yeah listen to your little boyfriend and run off."
Roman clicked his teeth in anger and shoved Naruto back slightly. "Fuck the both of you! I don't listen to either of you. So why don't you go find something better to do Ice King? This doesn't involve you."
Closing his eyes, Naruto knew his normal approach wouldn't suffice with his teammate. So thinking back to the years he watched his father's leadership. Naruto decided he should try to emulate the man a little more. So snapping his eyes directly at Roman, Naruto gave the boy a cold glare that would have made James proud and sent shivers down Roman's spine.
"This involves me the moment my idiot teammate decided to pick a fight. So turn around and get your ass to class."
"I don't have to-. . ."
"I wasn't asking, it was a fucking order solider!" Naruto roared loudly, as he watched his teammate slowly cower backwards in surprise. "So swallow your little pride and walk away."
Naruto suddenly found a hand on his shoulder, an action that made him glance over to Hei. The latter of whom had a rather cocky smirk on his face.
"Now no need to rush off so fast. After all you and your buddy still need to beg for my forgiveness."
Naruto returned the boy's words with a friendly smile. A smile to some of the onlookers seemed a little too forced.
"Listen Junior." Naruto began with a light laugh, as he grabbed the boy's hand with a bone crushing grasp. "If you can't handle someone accidentally bumping into you then you're not cut out for this life."
"Why you-. . ."
The teenager began, but stopped the moment Naruto grabbed his shirt and pulled him in close. Allowing Naruto's piercing gaze to stare into his freighterd eyes. "I've seen it more times than one. A cocky individual like yourself who thinks they are invincible and overestimates their skills." The blond then scoffed and tossed the boy onto his backside. "The lucky ones get a quick death, but most aren't that fourtunate. You'd be better off quitting while you're ahead, go run a nightclub or something. You'll live longer that way Junior."
Hei didn't have a snarky reply this time, but instead lowered his head in shame. An action that made Naruto frown, as he felt a pit in his stomach. He knew his words were right and it was exactly how his father would have delivered them, but Naruto wasn't his father. Yet regardless of his feelings, the blond turned his attention to his teammates.
"Roman, Gretchen. Stop standing around and get to class before you're late."
The duo both compiled, as even they didn't want to argue with the rather aggressive tone of their leader. Though as they walked off, Naruto followed shortly behind and as he heard the murmurs of people talking about him, his thoughts were focused on his actions. He had succeeded in handling the situation just like his father would have, but it didn't feel right. It was effective and honest, but it wasn't who Naruto was and that didn't set well with the blond. Who simply sighed and closed his eyes. Wondering to himself just what type of leader did he want to be?
Yet as Naruto walked towards his class, a pair of eyes watched him through a set of cameras. A smile gracing the lips of the individual who reached out for his coffee mug.
"You really are the General's son aren't you? Consider me interested then."
(Two weeks later)
It's been two full weeks since Naruto's first day at Beacon Academy and the blond had finally found himself in a rather good groove. He was already excelling in every conceivable way and was quickly becoming the talk of the school, as many were not only recognizing his abilities, but also his pedigree as James Ironwood's son. Yet Naruto wasn't the only one of his team creating murmurs throughout the entire academy. Considering all four members displayed above average skills in both academics and combat training, which was amplified by Naruto's drive to better his team and push each one of them to their best.
In fact with the Vytal Festival only a few short months away, many were placing Team NGRA in as a top contender for this year's tournament. Despite the talk around him and his team, Naruto stayed humble and didn't let his ego swell or get the best of him. Instead the blond merely kept pushing himself harder and harder, as he knew better than anyone else that he still had a long road ahead of him as a huntsman and leader.
Currently the blond was placing extra training hours in alone, as he was determined to get a better grasp over his semblance. Yet as sweat poured down his face and his body ached in pain, Naruto kept pushing himself through a set of sword stances. He didn't know the best way to practice his semblance, as he truly didn't understand what his abilities were. So his best solution was to push himself well past his limits and refine his current skills while doing so.
However, as Naruto suddenly dropped his swords at his sides the blond took a large breath to compose himself. His ears twitched at the sound of footsteps approaching from behind. So turning around Naruto was surprised to find Amber looking at him with a blank look.
"Um hey Amber! Can I help you?"
Stepping closer into view, Amber looked around their surroundings. "I needed your help on an assignment about the history of Atlas. However, I didn't expect you to be so close to the Emerald Forest."
Hearing this, Naruto laughed nervously and placed his weapons away. "Sorry about that, I was just getting some extra training done by myself. Though if you let me get cleaned up I can help you with your homework!"
Nodding in response, Amber folded her arms. "I appreciate that, but why train out here? You do realize Beacon has training facilities?"
"Let's just say I prefer to train away from people, it's better for everyone that way."
Understanding what Naruto meant thanks to what Ozpin had told her, Amber didn't have to press the conversation any further. However, for some reason she felt the urge to do so.
"And why is that?"
Sighing at the question and rubbing his head, Naruto moved his line of sight away from Amber. "My semblance is dangerous and I don't like to be around others when I'm training."
Knowing Naruto was being truthful, Amber decided to keep trying to learn more about Naruto and his semblance. Thinking if she knew more about the blond it would help her make a decision about helping him like Ozpin wanted her to do.
"Well being around your semblance can't be worse than being around Roman."
Snickering at the girl's jab at their teammate, Naruto shook his head. "I've only used my semblance once, but I seriously hurt my father and best friend. So I need to learn how to control my power so I don't hurt anyone I care about again. Unfortunately I have no clue how to train this semblance at all!"
Amber merely looked her leader over and clearly saw his body soaked in sweat. Showing the blond wasn't slacking with his physical training and made her think of something.
"Well have you tried meditation?"
Naruto scrunched his face, as the question was a little odd to him. "No, I haven't. Should I?"
Amber shrugged her shoulders. "Well from my perspective it looks like you're running yourself ragged training with no results. So maybe your semblance is more mental based than physical. I mean when I was training my- . . . semblance. I found meditation helpful."
Taking a moment to think over his past experience with his semblance, Naruto couldn't deny Amber's words had some merit.
"I mean anything is worth a try. How do I get started?"
Amber sighed softly, as it looked like she would be offering him her help after all. "Here copy me."
Watching Amber sit cross legged on the ground, Naruto mimicked the girl with a curious expression.
"Now a common misconception about meditation is that there is a certain posture, but that's false. The key is to find what makes you feel comfortable. After that you need to slowly detach your thoughts and drift into a relaxed state. It sounds strange at first, but try to focus on the rhythm of your breathing."
Following the girl's instructions, Naruto tried his hardest to reach the mental state that his teammate was describing. Though Naruto didn't feel like he was accomplishing anything besides sitting on the ground with his eyes closed.
"I don't think this is working." The blond announced in an impatient voice, while he slightly opened his eyes to look at Amber. "Am I doing something wrong?"
"You're trying too hard, stop asking questions and just drift away. Let the only thing to consume your thoughts be the tempo of your breathing. Then once you feel yourself slowly being detached look into yourself and search out a light within you. A warm and comfortable sensation that is the power that dwells within you. Then once you find it, latch onto it and get a good feeling for it."
Scrunching his nose and trying to do as he was told, Naruto slowly meditated and focused on reaching deep within himself. Then as seconds turned into minutes, Naruto and Amber both sat in silence, while the blond felt as if he was making no progress whatsoever. Something that was starting to frustrate Naruto, but he wasn't one to give up so easily. So taking a deep breath and focusing even harder Naruto suddenly felt something swell within him. It was faint and unfamiliar, but the moment Naruto began to focus onto the power within his body he instantly felt the sensation sweep throughout his body.
Amber watching Naruto was actually taken back, as she saw the blue energy radiating off of Naruto like a beacon of light. It wasn't like traditional aura and it didn't seem like any type of semblance either. However, just feeling the overwhelming force coming from Naruto was enough to make her sweat. Naruto on the other hand was feeling more in tune with himself than ever before, as he felt the strange surge of power move throughout him.
"This is incredible." Naruto began with a small grin on his face, while he slightly shifted in place. However, Naruto felt a little strange and could have sworn it felt like his body was sticking to the ground he was sitting on. Yet discarding those feelings for a moment, Naruto paid more attention to his body in general. As he felt almost invincible and even lighter than before. Hell even his muscles felt like they were filled with some sort of explosive force. "So this is my semblance."
Naruto then opened his eyes and stopped channeling the power within him and instead smiled at Amber. The latter of whom was still at a loss for words.
"Well since I've figured out how to get a grasp on my semblance, I just gotta learn how to make use of it!"
Amber simply nodded, as she was still trying to think about what she had seen. "Yeah I guess."
Naruto laughed and held his hand out. "Well thanks for the help Amber! I'm glad to have a teammate like you!"
Accepting the hand, Amber closed her eyes and tried to brush off her confusion. "Don't sweat it, just remember I still need your help with my assignment."
"Well why don't we get to it then!"
(With Ozpin)
Seated at his desk, Ozpin was currently having a video meeting with General James Ironwood. The latter of whom had a rather curious and slightly worried expression.
"Ozpin what's the meaning of this rather urgent meeting you wanted? Is everything alright with Naruto?"
"Now James there is no need to jump the gun, so please relax." Ozpin began in a calm voice. "I did call this meeting to talk about your son, but not for the reasons you might imagine. I simply wanted to inform you of a decision I have made in the last few days."
"Well enlighten me."
Ozpin nodded and clicked a button, which showed the General information on Naruto and his teammates. "I've been looking for a group of capable young students for quite some time now. Over the years I've had some promising talent, but nothing spectacular. Your son and his team however, have recently started to catch my eye. Naruto himself is more capable than anyone I've seen in years and his team isn't far off. Especially with the leadership skills he has learned from you."
James closed his eyes and tightened his fists. "So you're looking for your next pet project. Did you not learn your lesson from the complete failure that was Team STRQ?"
"I wouldn't categorize Team STRQ as a failure."
"Oh really? Because if memory serves correctly, Summer Rose was killed, Raven Branwen defected back to her tribe. Taiyang went off to become an instructor at Singal Academy." James then scoffed and waved Ozpin off. "But at least you still have the unstable alcoholic, Qrow Branwen."
"While everything you're saying is correct, what happened to Team STRQ was an unforeseen mishap. One that I have learned from."
"So what then Ozpin? Are you going to use my son and his team against Salem? You realize there is a reason I haven't told my son about anything regarding that woman or the truth of the world."
"Yes I can imagine several reasons, but the matter still stands. We are in need of a next generation that can not only continue this fight, but with hope finish it. You cannot deny that your son is a perfect candidate James. He's smart, cunning, skilled and a charismatic leader. Not bringing him into the fold is a waste of his potential."
"He's just a boy. It's nonsense to throw him into our war."
Ozpin simply closed his eyes and sighed deeply. "He won't be a child forever James and this battle with Salem will eventually reach him. I simply wish to reveal the truth to Naruto and his team and take extra care that they are prepared to defend the world. As I've said, I have learned from my mistakes with Team STRQ."
James gritted his teeth, he didn't like the idea, as he was a protective and loving father. Yet he couldn't deny that Ozpin did make a good point. That being he couldn't protect his son from Salem forever.
"I take it you're going to approach Naruto and his team soon?"
To the General's surprise, Ozpin shook his head from side to side. "No, gathering four individuals based on their potential was one of my many mistakes from the past. Instead I'll give Naruto and his team a mission to prove themselves. If they can display to me that they are ready for the next step. Then that is when I will bring them into the fold and reveal the truth."
"I see and what do you have in mind to test them?"
"I have nothing planned yet." Ozpin revealed as he reached out and grabbed his coffee mug. "However, as you're quite well aware there is always something brewing in the background. I'm sure an opportunity for Naruto and his team to show what they can do will come soon."
(City of Vale)
Within the slums of the city, rain was pouring down hard against the cold pavement, while the neon lights reflected off the build up of water in the streets. Yet as people went about their own business, two individuals stalked around the town slowly. Their heads on a swivel as they looked into every alleyway they walked by.
"Are you sure the brat is here?" One of the two began. Who was a rather rough looking man with a spider tattoo on his bicep.
The second individual, a woman with an identical spider tattoo on her neck nodded. "There isn't anywhere else that brat could have gone. Unless our informant was lying to us, which means we are walking around in the rain for nothing."
The man shook his head. "That would be quite bad."
The woman sighed. "If so we could always pay him another visit for wasting our time."
The man merely nodded and the duo kept walking, but as they passed a dumpster tucked into an ally that was overflowing with trash. The pair didn't seem to take notice of the alleyway like they did for the others. An outcome that was a relief for the set of mismatched eyes gazing under a pile of trash.
(Chapter end)
And that's a wrap! Man this one took awhile, but it's finally done! Anyways, I hope you like it, as I always work hard on these chapters.
Naruto: So some people don't like certain decisions I've made and well sorry but I don't regret making them. The whole idea of this volume 0 is to develop Naruto into the character he will be for the rest of the story. So I'm having him make mistakes and have failures to grow from, while also succeeding in other places. All of which give him experience to be the teacher and mentor figure to the younger generation he will teach when his time comes. He is completely intend to be a flawed character, but that's perfect for character development.
Age: Some people thought Naruto and Winter were the same age as Team STRQ and they are not. Naruto will be about 25 in volume 1, while people like Qrow will be well into their late 30's early 40's.
Kushina: When James described Naruto's mother he lied about her features. Since saying his mother had red hair and other features would make him start to ask questions. Hence why James said she had blue eyes and blond hair like Naruto.
Anyways that's all I got for now, but hopefully I can get another update soon and we can get closer to Volume 1. Which to my estimations could be from anywhere from 4-6 chapters from now depending on how I handle certain events.