Editorial Note: The next chapter will be focusing on the Freshman's Dance Night and the events leading up to it, which was first written three days after Team RWBY's investigation around Vale, starting at Friday's combat class.

And just for the record, this is personally my least favorite chapter of this extract from Jaune's journal during his Beacon times, I assume you already know why.

Chapter 8

Ladies' Knight

"I'll let you take one last look at your handsome face before you die, White Knight."

-Last words of serial killer, Marianne Philips, better known as 'The Demon in the Mirror'

After that night, I had to spend the last couple of days giving a few hours of unpaid labor to make up for the repercussions we caused, which is basically detention since I only work inside the academy. It wouldn't have been that bad since all I had to do was work for a few hours inside the safety of Beacon had it not for the fact that word about my exploit was spread overnight with Nora gushing about it after I woke up the next morning, while berating me for not taking Ren and her to the bank robbery. But if anything, she should be glad because she wouldn't have to get sentenced to community service just like I did. Pyrrha on the other hand probably did not get convicted because of her reputation and because she didn't really do much other than to knock down a few troopers and save my bacon from a four-foot, two-tone colored psychopath.

It wasn't just her. Apparently, people here tuned in to the midnight and morning news and applauded me and Pyrrha for foiling the bank robbery, unaware of my sentence and the fact that my presence there was unwanted, while ignoring Team RWBY, Sun and Neptune's battle with a stolen Atlesian mech on the highway even if it did result in a few civilian casualties. [1] I kept hearing it for the whole day, with everyone I came across approaching me and talking about it, telling me and Pyrrha that we did a great job while all I could do was smile and spout some self-deprecating bullshit that I couldn't have done it without her help and cover my own ass.

Okay, it wasn't exactly bullshit; it's true that I really couldn't have done it without Pyrrha, but you get what I feel about this.

I had a feeling that my ignominious reputation as the Defender of Podunk was finally falling to obscurity, with everyone who brought it out forgetting about it five minutes after asking if I was him. Then I blew it by accepting to help out a friend for a task that was supposed to be a simple team investigation, following a peculiar girl for answers instead of checking records, stealing a stupid bike and going to the wrong way by following cop cars who I thought was heading to the highway. Now I'm on the godsdamn news again with my name spelled wrong as usual, [2] and journalists have been trying to visit Beacon to get my interview.

Wonderful, here I am in the spotlight again. At least no one was told about my minor act of bike thievery, Yang still hasn't lived that down yet.

Pyrrha is also affected by this because not only she fought with me, it was also one of the rarest moments where the Invincible Girl of Mistral fights outside the tournament. Of course, it was too good of a story for journalists not to milk, so it wasn't just my reputation that was enhanced. At the very least, I have yet to spot a paparazzi trying to get some juicy details about my personal life for some dumbfuck article only people with no life would care about.

On the bright side, I don't think I have to worry about who to look for to dance with this Sunday. That night kind of brought me and Pyrrha closer considering the stuff we had to deal with in its aftermath. That and I have attracted some girls who would kill to dance with me after hearing my supposed act of bravery.

I have to admit—after dealing with some missions within Pucelle and that aforementioned night, it's nice to feel the peaceful boredom of class hours again. Now I just need to enjoy every last minute of it until I get my first mission this upcoming Monday.

I sat beside Pyrrha at Combat Class after doing a few exercises with her before the sparring sessions began. She smiled at me and I returned the gesture, knowing how much we comforted one another when dealing with the pressures of being on a pedestal. It really showed that we do have some genuine partnership together and that we're paired up for a reason other than we just happened to be the first contact we made during the initiation.

I turned to check on Team RWBY. While they looked fine for the most part, they still appear to be recovering from that night. Ruby looked like she was back to her perky self, but I could still sense that she hadn't gotten over the casualties she wasn't able to prevent. Weiss was maintaining her composure while she was obviously infuriated that she had to do community service for ten days; Yang was doing her best not to show her displeasure of being banned from the city for a month in addition to her daily labor; Blake, meanwhile had it worst, she became much moodier since that night and appear to be lacking in sleep if her eye bags and the paleness of her skin did not give that away. She was occupied with her books, while she was always like that, it was blatant that she was trying to ease her mind after what happened that night.

I know they were resilient enough to handle this but I still can't help but feel guilty that they have to go through all of that while I get all the glory. Having to serve labor in which sentence was half long as theirs wasn't enough to make us even. If anyone deserved to be called brave aside from Pyrrha that night—it should be them. They courageously faced a wanted criminal on a highway full of innocents and almost won, but instead, they were still penalized for casualties and damages they barely had control over.

I sighed and just told myself to focus on the present. I noticed I was also sitting next to the Haven team whom I bumped into last Monday; I saw them in their combat outfits for the first time, since the last time I met them, they were in their Haven uniforms. They seem to be an okay bunch, despite being somewhat strange at times but that's probably just me, each team has their own quirks anyway.

"Man, all these exercising and team-building stuff is killing me. I think my legs are aching for some action." Mercury—the gray-haired one—impatiently uttered.

"Quit tapping your feet. I would hate for you to crack the floor and get us in trouble for it." His green-haired partner—Emerald, I think—told him.

"Relax, these floors are designed to be both durable and repairable," he responded, making Emerald roll her eyes before turning at me. "Anyway, guess who we bumped into again."

"Well if it isn't Jaune Arc," A soothing voice stated. "Fancy meeting you again. It seems that you have been making moves a couple of days ago." I stared back at the beautiful raven-haired leader complimenting me, doing my best not to flush out of embarrassment at flattering and her mention of that fiasco. Pyrrha turned her head to see who I was talking to, getting Cinder's attention. "And Pyrrha Nikos herself is here too."

"Uh, hello there!" Pyrrha waved to her fellow Mistralis.

"It's an honor to finally meet you face to face. We're Team Cinnamon from Haven." Emerald stirred near her partner and started covering his mouth. "Well, we prefer to call ourselves Team CMSN, but Cinnamon is fine I guess. By the way, my name is Emerald. This right here is Mercury, and this our leader, Cinder, and our other teammate, Nico!" she introduced her team as the very latter leaned in and joyfully waved at us.

"I see." Pyrrha nodded with her hand cupped to her chin. "It's nice to meet you, Team Cinnamon."

Mercury struggled out of Emerald's grasp and glared at her for a second before turning back at us. "Hey, you two did great back there. Never was a big fan of the White Fang myself. What a bunch of losers. Seriously, how are they going to achieve equality with that?" he said while his partner just rolled her eyes with a coy smile.

"Thanks, I guess. Couldn't just leave when I knew I could do something." I replied in a way they would expect from the Humble & Courageous Jaune Arc.

"How brave, I can see why everyone is hailing you as a hero." Cinder cooed. "Why can't Huntsmen be more like you?"

"You'll be surprised to know how many people said that to me," I scratched the back of my had and tried not to show my embarrassment. "I just did what a Huntsman would do."

"And you certainly show." Cinder and I continued to stare at each other. I was too stupefied by this woman's beauty and flattering that it wasn't until Pyrrha cleared her throat that I stopped spacing out. "By the way, it's nice to meet you in person, Pyrrha. We're huge fans of your work and we look forward to seeing what you have in store for the tournament."

"You won't be disappointed," Pyrrha sighed.

"Alright, students." Miss Goodwitch grabbed all of our attention. "As you know, the Vytal Tournament will begin within a few weeks, and that only qualified teams are allowed to partake in it. Henceforth, the qualifiers will now begin. While some of you are sure to be in the Tournament, you still have to prove if you are absolutely worthy to be eligible for the most renowned tournament of the year, for we are looking for students who possess remarkable ability to show the world the capabilities of the Huntsmen of tomorrow."

I turned to Pyrrha and nodded to each other, I then looked at Ren and Nora who were unusually distant from our seats, with the latter giving a thumbs up with both of her hands and the former simply giving a disposed look.

"So let us begin the matches and show me what you have learned these past months. This time, you will also be able to practice alongside students from other academies. Just remember that there is no competition as of yet. While you are to show your capabilities and prove your worthiness, you are still training. So please, keep these battles amiable while being as competent as you could." she said before she chose the first participants for today. "The first match would be Oriana Sullivan and Sandy Graves of Team TOPS (Topaz) going against Lambert Forrester and Rusty Dalen of Team BFYR on a two-on-two match."

During the matches, I kept notes on the participant's fighting as usual—especially with the transfer students, who I hold little to no information about their fighting ability. Aside from that, I didn't remember that much since I wasn't invested in seeing who would win; I only cared about how I could win against them.

After a handful of matches, one of the last participants—Roy Stallion of Team BRNZ (Bronze) from Shade was getting dragged off from the arena after getting his butt handed by Sky Lark of all people. Yeah, you read that right; the very same guy who I remembered was the most timid member of Team CRDL.

"With that match, you are reminded to keep a distance from your opponent, especially if their weapon has a much longer range than yours." Miss Goodwitch advised the crowd of students. "Since we are running short of time, we would like to reintroduce Miss Umi Hisakawa."

As soon as her name was called, we knew exactly how this was going to go. Once she started appearing to the arena, I noticed Brook Lane almost fainting at the mere sight of her.

"I see everyone seem to recognize her, save for the transfer students. Since you have all managed to come this far, you might finally be able to defeat her after she left all of you speechless at her introductory match. But before any of you will be able to prove that, she will have to be set up against an opponent who was already on par with her from the start, as they were almost never chosen for a single match so far when it was something we were all looking forward to."

Miss Goodwitch began facing toward my direction. I did my best to look calm while in a state of complete internal panic, until one reaffirming statement calmed me down in a matter of a second. "Pyrrha Nikos, would you kindly enter the arena?"

"Sure, professor," she said as she stood up.

"Good luck out there, Pyrrha." I nodded.

"I will, Jaune." She then stepped off from the seats and into the arena.

The two Mistralis silently stare at each other in the middle of the combat hall. The audience just sat by at the edge of their seats and gazed at the two warrior ladies, clearly anticipating for fast-paced action.

"You both know the rules. You are given 10 minutes to put your opponent's aura below 15% before the timer runs out. The match will begin…"

Blades resonated as they both unsheathed their respective weapons and went on their stances while keeping eye contact with one another as they waited for the professor's cue.

"…now."

When the match started, none of the two attacked; instead, they slowly circled each other, waiting for the other to make the first move. Umi tried to startle her by feinting, but Pyrrha's amazing reflexes and discipline kept her unflinched.

Finding out that Pyrrha was playing defensively, Umi changed her tactics and abruptly threw blades from her fan. Pyrrha deflected them with her shield before noticing that Umi tried to sweep away her feet, making her leap back and began firing at her with her rifle, which Umi blocked with her fans as she walked slowly towards her. Pyrrha then changed her rifle to its javelin form and threw it at Umi, and since the javelin was too much for her fans to deflect, she jumped right away from it.

Pyrrha flew to retrieve Miló [3] and launched herself from the wall without touching the floor that would get her to lose by ring out. She changed her weapon to her xiphos mode before she used it to clash with Umi's bladed fans the moment she got next to her. The two fought in the center for superiority until Pyrrha managed to swipe away one of Umi's fans to the air. Umi didn't waste any time and leaped for her fan as Pyrrha changed her weapon back to a rifle and opened fire at her. Umi grabbed her fan at midair and used both of them to block off the gunshots as she descended towards her opponent. Pyrrha darted back before Umi got to the ground where she started spinning toward her with blades knives being thrown to Pyrrha. Pyrrha deflected the blades by spinning her spear, making them fly around the arena, even hitting the transparent holographic walls that protect the audience. Once she was done, she raised her shield from the flurry of slashes from Umi's fans and pushed her back and threw the shield at her. Umi was able to jump on the shield and flew toward Pyrrha and attempted to strike her down but she rolled forward and grabbed her shield before firing twice to her last ammo. Pyrrha changed her weapon back to its xiphos form for quicker melee and engaged her once again, only this time, Umi was struggling to block off Pyrrha's swift slashes.

Umi was getting overwhelmed. Pyrrha's agility made it near-impossible for her to counter, and her shield barely gave her an opening. I know this because Ren, Nora and I once sparred with her, and not once were we able to beat her in a serious match. But Umi wasn't giving up yet, having enough of Pyrrha's offensive she leaped back, waved both of her fans as she took off towards the ceiling. Both Pyrrha and the audience looked up at her as she summoned a whole mass of blades coming from her fans, forming a shape similar to that of wings; she threw all of those blades towards Pyrrha. Pyrrha ducked with her shield as a hailstorm of a hundred blades falls towards her.

Unfortunately for Umi, she was barely scathed. Pyrrha stood up both gracefully and vigorously, sweeping away the blades on the floor as she walked forward and astonished the audience on how untouchable she was. Umi landed back to the ground, she lost her calm demeanor and displayed clear agitation towards her opponent. The last thing I saw was Pyrrha smirk before black outlines surrounded both her hands, as well the blades around her before they rose from the ground and began pointing at their former owner. Umi just stood by with a horrified look before Pyrrha launched them at her, draining all of her remaining aura to the red.

"Woah." I heard Mercury utter after the last blade penetrated Umi's aura.

"Impressive." Cinder remarked.

Umi was lying on the ground when the bell rang and lights came back on. "And that's the match." Miss Goodwitch walked back into the arena.

Pyrrha was noticeably panting, not because of the fight but because of how much she used her semblance. She did tell me that it took some meditation to get a hold of and control her polarity and that the more metal she holds, the more aura it uses.

Nora stood up and hollered. "Way to go, P-Money!"

The auditorium roared with applause after witnessing the victory from The Invincible Girl. For Beacon students, it showed how amazing she was after beating a senior that haunted us since the first day of combat training. Pyrrha just smiled and waved around the arena before walking to Umi and offered her hand, which she accepted. The two smiled at each other and Umi gave Pyrrha a bow of gratitude as her fellow Mistrali returned the gesture.

"Miss Nikos, that was incredible! It is without a doubt that you will be in the tournament." Miss Goodwitch said.

"Thank you, professor." Pyrrha nodded.

"Your performance is no less exemplary, Hisakawa-san." Miss Goodwitch said to Umi. "You are dismissed. Miss Nikos, you may now return to your seat."

Umi bowed once again before leaving the premises as she fanned herself. Pyrrha went back sitting beside me a minute later.

"Pyrrha, that was great! I already know you are a great fighter but...wow!" I praised. While it was not surprising given Pyrrha's record of being Goddess of Victory, I was still at a loss of words that it was the only thing I could say to her.

"Thanks, Jaune. Your support means a lot to me."

"Yeah," I restrained my own blush. "Just being a good partner."

"Alright, now I know that's a tough act to follow, but we have time for one more sparring match. Any volunteers?" Miss Goodwitch said as she looked at the audience before noticing a certain faunus who was still hooked up on her book. "Miss Belladonna?"

Startled, Blake abruptly shut her book closed and put her gaze to the Professor.

"You've been rather docile for the past few classes." Miss Goodwitch remarked, making Blake look away in shame. "Why don't you—"

"I'll do it," Mercury raised his hand.

"Mercury, is it?" Miss Goodwitch adjusted her glasses before tapping her tablet. "Very well then. Mercury Black of Team CMEN from Haven Academy, you may now come down to the arena."

The audience began snickering as he stood up and went down, not only because of his team's name but rather because of how it's unfortunately spelled. No wonder why they prefer being called CMSN.

"Students, I will not repeat myself; please stop this childishness at once! Might I remind you that none of you are in elementary anymore?" Miss Goodwitch growled.

The snickering stops. Mercury doesn't seem perturbed by it, in fact, he was just as amused. I cannot say the same for his teammates, who were covering their faces with their hands.

"I don't get it. What's so funny about cinnamon?" Ruby asked with confusion in her voice.

Oh Ruby, you poor little thing. You are obviously too pure for this godsforsaken planet.

"You'll understand when you're older, sis. For now, don't think about it and let's just see what's this dude made of." Yang said to her sister.

Miss Goodwitch tapped on her tablet. "Now, let's find you an opponent."

"Actually. I wanna fight…" He looked around the audience before pointing toward me. "Him."

"Me?" I gritted my teeth. I haven't fought in a sparring match since that time I have to fight all of Team CRDL. I guess I couldn't avoid the spotlight after what I did two days ago.

"Yeah, you."

"Is there a problem, Mr. Arc?" Miss Goodwitch asked.

Well, it's too late to decline this now. "Uhh, no. I'd be happy to oblige."

"Very well, then. Jaune Arc of Team JNPR will be facing of Mercury Black of Team CMEN from Haven Academy. Please come down the stage."

The audience applauded and began chanting my name, with some of the girls screaming out of admiration. Laughter over the latter team's name could still be audible, albeit muffled by the cheering.

"You can do it, Jaune." Pyrrha nodded.

"I'll be fine Pyrrha, but thanks anyway."

"Good luck out there, hero." Cinder said. "I should warn you; Mercury may not be the brightest, but his skills are undeniable."

Duly noted. "I'll be sure to keep that in mind." I replied before heading to the locker room.

I grabbed my weapons and stepped into the arena. I went to my stance as Mercury walks to his side, smiling at me before going on his brawling stance. The two screens displaying our respective aura meters began appearing as all but one of the room's light began closing down while both of our eyes mutually gazed toward one another.

By the looks of it, Mercury is an unarmed fighter who primarily fights with kicking—judging by the guns attached on his boots. Looks like I already know what to do. I hope this guy has happy feet if he wants to win this.

"Show him who's boss, Fearless Leader!" Nora audibly cheered.

"You may begin!" Miss Goodwitch announced.

Mercury lunged and attempted to kick me as I blocked my shield and shoved him back, making him flip back to where he started. I chose not to use my laspistol yet as I didn't want him to recognize my strategy that early, so I charged at him with my shield on my front as he tried to shoot me down with it. I got near him as I kept blocking his kicks with my shield as I tried giving a few slashes only for him to keep dodging them around. I bashed my shield to him, pushing him back once again.

Well, this guy was tougher than he looks. I guess Cinder was right when she mentioned his skills.

Mercury spun as he jumped, once again giving another kick that I blocked with my shield, I began doing my best of skill avoiding his series of attacks before I rolled back and readied my shield again as he to struck me with a flurry of kicks before I rolled under one of his kicks while collapsing my shield and grabbing my gun from holster. I aimed my pistol and fired at him and he began swaying away from the laser fire before giving a flying kick which I avoided by side-stepping.

I was now parrying away his kicks as he tried to shoot me with it from time to time. He managed to strike me back, which was when I decided to set my plan into motion. I aimed my gun at his feet which he started tap dancing as an attempt to avoid the lasers I fired as I rushed in closer and slashed him with his guard suppressed.

Once I knocked him down, he spun as he recovered quickly and flipped back away at a distance. Twirling my pistol back to my holster, I raised and expanded my shield and lunged at him. Mercury gave a dropkick on my shield, fired a round that launched himself back. I raised my sword and began charging at him, but immediately stopped after hearing at his statement when he stood up.

"I forfeit." Mercury declared as he turned to Miss Goodwitch.

"What?" I asked in bewilderment after pushing my own brakes and halted.

"I underestimated you," he said after he faced me once again. "I can see why they are calling you the hero everybody is talking about. It's fun and all, but I don't really think I could beat you."

I just stared at him in utter disbelief. He was doing well that I'm sure he could defeat me, provided he had the right tactics and since I wasn't invincible like Pyrrha.

"If that's the case then I have to declare Jaune Arc to be the victor of this match. Marking the second time he won after his opponent declared themselves forfeit. Once again, a viable tactic in a hopeless fight, but I find your decision to forfeit to be very sudden Mr. Black; you still had a chance to defeat your opponent." Miss Goodwitch asserted.

"Eh, wasn't feeling it," Mercury responded. "Guy was leagues apart from me. I just wanted to challenge him for a bit before realizing he really was too much to me."

"Well then, I advise you to pick your opponents more carefully from now on."

"Got it, teach," Mercury walked away.

"That is all for today." Miss Goodwitch declared. "And remember, the dance is this weekend. But you all have your first mission on Monday. I will not accept any excuses."

Ah, yes the Sunday dance, which the way I saw it was a chance for students to celebrate and maybe get a date they never had before getting thrown off to a mission with a chance of actual death.

As I made my way out of the combat hall, I reunited with my team and Nora began gushing once again.

"Whooo! Jaune Arc strikes again! Oh, it's wonderful to see you fighting again, Fearless Leader! You did great too, Pyrrha! You really showed that geisha chick. I can't wait for us to finally go on our first mission and fight alongside you guys again!"

I could only smile at Nora's enthusiasm, even if she was excited for an assignment with a chance of death that varies on how hazardous the mission is.

We were heading out from the hallway when I once again crossed paths with that irritatingly alluring leader of Team CMEN.

"Why, you certainly don't disappoint." Cinder remarked. "I can see how both of you are the most talked-about freshmen in this academy. The Goddess of Victory and The Hero of Podunk, one who recently stopped a terrorist's robbery. You are shaping to be the freshman team of the year."

I was only able to stare at her, stupefied at her astounding beauty. "Oh boy, do we ever! The untouchable beauty, the bravest knight of them all, and the bestest of friends ever!" she said as she started hugging Ren at her side. "You might as well start calling us Team Awesome! Scratch that, we ARE Team Awesome! It's our second name! Don't care if it's not a color nor a name formed with our first letters. We're Team Awesome!"

I snapped out of my paralyzed state and was about to respond before Pyrrha came to my front and spoke on my behalf. "We appreciate your support very much. But for now, we got to go. See you later!" she said as she began dragging me away, with Ren and Nora following us as Cinder waved at me.

I did not bother asking why Pyrrha abruptly dragged me out as if she doesn't want me talking with her since I know that she would not rather talk about it.

"Pyrrha's jelly!" Nora teased, in which Pyrrha only responded by rolling her eyes. "I'm kidding. I know how you feel. I would have done the same thing if she tried to flirt with Ren. Who does she think she is that she could just take Jaune away from us?"

Well, whatever Cinder is planning with me, I really couldn't answer that myself.

=o=

1. If you read the excerpts from the last chapter, you'll know that Jaune's description of that event was inaccurate, since while the chase did happen on the highway, the battle actually occurred below it, with both Sun and Neptune being out of commission early. And the reason why no one approached us about the incident is that there was barely any footage that showed Team RWBY engaging the Paladin, and the eye-witnesses' description of everyone involved were vague. Also, Headmaster Ozpin persuaded the VPD to keep our identities anonymous, the same unfortunately cannot be said for Jaune, due to testimonies from several police officers and civilian witnesses confirming his and Pyrrha's presence at the bank heist.

2. Jaune's name is usually misspelled as "John Arc", due to how little reference journalists possess aside from its pronunciation.

3. The name of Pyrrha's weapon, that is paired with her shield, Akoúo.

Leaving the hallway and into the school's campus, we were met with the friendly face of Neptune, behind him were two boys—who I correctly assumed to be his teammates.

"He-hey, look who's finally here!" Neptune said. "Jaune Arc and Pyrrha freakin' Nikos herself. The badasses of the week!"

"Good to see you again, Neptune," I greeted. "How have you been doing this past couple of days?"

"Pretty good. Community service's not that bad. Met some lovely chicks on the streets while I was at it."

"And his supervisor kept yelling at him to get back to work." the green-haired one said.

Well, that's one way of telling me of one of his weaknesses. Luckily, I already know how a perverted mind works.

"Yeah…" Neptune embarrassedly scratched the back of his head. "So anyway, these are my teammates; Scarlet and Sage," he said gesturing at the two, who looks just as boyband-ish as their teammates.

Scarlet was the red-haired one with the Albionic accent who has markings on his left eye, and had his red coat draped around over his left shoulder, wearing it as if it was some cape, while somehow not slipping or falling off [1]; Sage was the dark-skinned, green-haired, shirtless, muscular man in an imposing stature clad in an unbuttoned longcoat while wearing no shirt underneath it, therefore, exposing his abs just like his leader. A bunch of show-offs I'd say.

"Together, we're Team SSSN (Sun)! Triple S's, and an N at the end, which by the way, is yours truly."

Look at that, another Team pronounced after their leader. It must be confusing to determine who's leading it if it weren't for one of their names. "Pretty weird being the only one whose name doesn't start with an 'S', don't you think?" I quipped. "Anyway, it's nice to meet you Scarlet, Sage. You already know me and my partner, this is Nora and Ren. We're Team JNPR."

"It's nice to finally meet you," Scarlet said. "I heard many great things about you. Is it true you stopped the bank robbery the same night you, Sun and Neptune got in trouble?"

"Yeah, that was me," I confirmed with a hint of shame. "I still couldn't have done it without Pyrrha's help."

"Don't mention it." Pyrrha nodded.

"You're really THE Pyrrha Nikos?" Sage said. "It's an honor to meet a warrior like you. How are you liking Beacon so far?"

"Thank you. Beacon is great. The people here are very thoughtful, and my teammates are very supportive."

"That's good to hear. Even champions need to settle down, it's nice to know you're making yourself comfortable while trying to hold such a record."

"Indeed," she nodded.

"A world-renowned champion and a recent breakout hero. My-my, what a combination." Scarlet remarked. "I'm sure your two other teammates are no pushover either."

"Believe me. They're far from that." I chimed in.

"That's right! Anima's number one duo is behind Jaune and Pyrrha." Nora put an arm over Ren's shoulder. "With his bravery and her strength and our undying friendship, we are nigh-unstoppable."

"It's true. While we are already remarkable from the start, Jaune's leadership has made us a force to be reckoned with." Ren added.

I could only smile at Ren's commendation. Too bad, it's only because I was smart enough to be pragmatic.

"You made yourself a good team, Jaune. Not saying Sun is a bad leader, but he could certainly learn a thing or two from you," Sage said.

"I appreciate that. Thank you."

"It was my pleasure."

Sun then walked in and reunited with his team, looking pretty distraught.

"So how did it go?" Neptune asked.

Sun groaned. "No luck. She's being much crankier than before. I thought she'd cheer up after the investigation that day but I think it made her worse. This is the first time we spoke since that night; I haven't seen her much since then."

Sigh, Blake still hasn't let go of Torchwick and the White Fang. I'm really worried about her. Her restlessness will soon be the end of her. Someone really needs to get that cat to settle down.

"It's fine, Sun. Maybe she's not in a good mood. You'll get her tomorrow." Neptune reaffirmed.

"Yeah, but she said she's not interested, and I don't think she'll be coming to the dance."

"Well, that sucks. Here's hoping she'll change her mind then."

"Yeah…" Sun uttered before turning to me. "Hey Jaune, how are you getting along with my team?"

"Pretty good. Quite the team you have here."

"Thanks. I appreciate having these dudes on my back. Been working my butt off to make ourselves a functional team."

"Burdens of being a leader," I replied.

"You got that right." Sun chuckled. "Hey, could you please try helping out Blake when you get the chance? She really looks like she needs help."

Trying to help a troubled Blake, part three. Here we go again. "Can't say no to that. I'm worried about Blake too."

"Good. Anyways, I think we should go now. It's our last day of community service and we'll be done sooner if we start now." Sun stated. "You still have yours to worry about, right?"

"Yeah. Speaking of which; what can you tell me about the work they put you up with?" I asked.

"Eh, we've been mostly sweeping the street, occasionally they would send us to help out with the highway repairs," Sun answered. "But cleaning the streets gave me an idea. Once we get our first mission, we'll no longer be cleaning the streets from grime, but we're gonna clean the streets from crime. Team SSSN, Police Squad!" he posed buoyantly, putting his fists on his wasit.

If that happens, I hope he doesn't end up investigating his own thefts. Solving that case would be very awkward. "Cool. Well, Professor Peach needs me and Team RWBY to clean up the dust lab for today, so I'll be sure to check up on her while I'm at it."

"Great! See ya' later," Sun and his teammates then turned around and left.

"You too! It was nice knowing your team!" I said to him before facing my team. "Yeah, I really need to go to the dust lab, they're expecting me after classes are done."

Pyrrha put a hand on my shoulder. "Well, good luck then. Just remember we have training later, so don't push yourself too hard, okay?"

"I won't forget," I reassured her before walking away. "See you!"

As I separated myself from my teammates, I headed straight towards the Dust Lab which was on the other building. Upon arriving, Professor Peach was waiting for me and Team RWBY was already there. Ruby was sweeping off particles, Weiss was organizing the dust, Yang was washing the vials, and Blake was wiping the tables clean.

"Ah, there you are, Mr. Arc. As you see, the dust lab has been a mess after the recent experiment by some of the teams. Suffice to say, that experiment was unsuccessful."

This is probably one of the reasons why Dust Studies is my weakest and least favorite, even though I learned to appreciate the use of the dust this past week. "Was anyone hurt?" I inquired more out of curiosity than concern as I looked around and saw a wall that has a huge black scorch mark with the middle being untouched in the shape of someone's figure, which more or less have answered my question.

"As you could see, the students responsible are currently at the infirmary. Some are just there to be examined for possible infection, but for the others…" she glanced at the scorched wall to make her point. "I don't need to explain why experimenting on dust can be very dangerous without proper procedure."

"I see," I gulped for a second as I thought about it. "What am I supposed to do for now?"

"Here's a sponge and a bucket of water. You know what to do."

"I'll get to it then, Professor." I nodded as I took the tools I needed to clean the wall.

I went over the wall. I looked at it for a few seconds before I removed my gloves and began scrubbing away its burnt marks. The black stain was so arduous to remove that it took a ridiculous amount of scouring to remove it. Keep in mind that this was one big mark that would have been a bigger pain if the unfortunate idiot didn't stand there and indirectly helped me by blocking a portion of the wall.

A few minutes in and my hands were already sore from the firm scrubbing. Ruby passed me by, sweeping the floor with a broom.

"Hey." I greeted her.

"Hey, Jaune."

"You okay?" I could tell that every time she's doing labor, she's thinking about the civilians she couldn't save that night. She came to Beacon to make the world a better place, and it's no mystery why she's upset about those people."

"I'm fine. Thanks."

She obviously wasn't but I didn't want to put her in a worse mood than she was by talking about it. "So, how's Blake?"

"Not good. She barely ate and slept, and has been shunning us away every time we tried to tell her to knock it off."

Just what I expected. "Torchwick and the White Fang still bothering her?"

"I think so. It's been driving her insane. I thought those feelings would go away after we tried to help, but it looks like she's gotten worse. Every time we're done with our work, she would often sneak out to continue her investigation with or without our help. Even though Professor Ozpin and the detective told us to lay low since the White Fang could be looking for us. I don't think she's going to give herself a break until all of this is done."

I sighed as I shook my head. "It's going to take a while for Torchwick and the White Fang to be put to justice. The police said they're doing their best to take them down. I take it Blake's not going to the dance?"

"Probably not. She refused to participate in anything. The only thing that could cheer her up is her books and even then it doesn't make her less cranky. I really want her to go to the dance; it's a chance for her to settle down since I think we're getting close to finding out what the White Fang is up to but I don't think she wants to stop. She barely even sleeps." she said before looking at Blake. "Speaking of which."

Blake was standing next to one of the work benches, trying to scrub the grime with a cloth. She looked frozen before realizing that her eyes were shut.

"I'll go talk to her," I put the soap down, deciding that it was as good a time as any to question her. Ruby went back to sweeping the floor as I went to approach her teammate. "Blake?"

Her sleep-deprived eyes immediately began blinking open as she turned to me. Though, they were noticeably struggling to stay open. "Oh, hey. Do you need something?"

"Nothing really. Just making sure you're alright."

"I'm fine. Now just leave me alone," she answered while she barely made any effort to hide her fatigue.

"No, you're obviously not." I insisted. "Just tell me what's wrong."

"Jaune, please. You have done enough for me as it is and I appreciate it. Now please, just go. I really need some space."

"Come on, Blake, you've been pushing yourself for days now that you can barely keep yourself awake. Maybe, you need rest for once."

"The White Fang doesn't rest, Jaune," she raised her tone. "They won't stop until they get what they want. So if I were to stop them then, there's no reason for me to rest either."

Oh brother, she really is this stubborn isn't she? I thought. "Blake, you're not the only one who can stop the White Fang. Just let the police take care of it, they're trying their best to—"

"They don't know the White Fang like I do!" she suddenly yelled, making all three of her teammates in the room put their attention at us. "At best, they'll only just slow them down for a small margin, and even that will take too much work for them!"

She huffed as glared at me while I remained aback at her sudden outrage. After a few seconds she took a deep breath and calmed down. "I'm sorry. It's been a stressful week. I just can't afford to let the White Fang make bad names for us faunus every passing second."

"Blake..."

"Please just leave me be."

I decided to give up. At that point, she made it clear that the White Fang has affected her drastically that there is no way to change her mind. If her own teammates couldn't convince her than I doubt that would be any more lucky. Well, I tried. "If that's what you want," I said before going back to cleaning the wall.

She can't keep acting like this forever though. Blake will eventually have to give in and stop being adamant about this investigation. I don't think I'll be able to convince her now, so I'll just leave everything for nature to do its magic.

In our favor, hopefully.

=o=

1. He does remove it during combat, however.

Blake's current issues crossed her off as one of the candidates I've considered partnering with on the upcoming extracurricular. Which is a shame because I want to use this opportunity to get to know her since we had a lot to make up for last semester. I'm still trying to decipher why she even kissed me on the cheek that night.

This leaves Pyrrha to be the only logical choice to be my date at the dance; she was the first person to come out of my mind when looking for someone to be paired with anyway.

Cinder was my second choice, but I'm not really comfortable dancing with someone who's into me because of my fraudulent reputation. Oh, who am I kidding? Anyone who's even interested in someone like me was because of my fraudulent reputation. Not to mention, a girl with the looks of her all but says that she is already taken.

Ruby would have been fine if it wasn't for the fact that I would feel like I'm taking advantage of the youngest and most naive girl in school. Plus, she's probably married to her scythe—which could be why it has the same last name as her, and I'd hate to be a home-wrecker. [1]

Yang's a ton of fun, but I doubt that anyone who dated her has lasted for more than a week. That, and she looked like she'd pass as one of my sisters which makes dating her look awkward for me. It's pretty much why I don't usually date fellow blondes. Yeah, I know that three of my sisters are brunettes, but that's a little different.

Weiss is out for obvious reasons, and even if I'm interested in her, it's pretty clear how she would respond. What good am I to her anyway? I already blew my last chance by not helping her out last Tuesday, and she'll be too busy being lovestruck on pretty boy Neptune anyway and I could sense that I would be a target for her army of white-knights if I was dumb enough to ask her out.

So it's pretty much decided that I'm going with Pyrrha. I still have a lot to make up for her, so this is my best chance. I'll ask her once I'm finished training with her.

Sparring with Pyrrha has been informative as always, as we get to learn about each other's fighting styles which cannot be obtained the same way by just simply watching. Being the Invincible Goddess of Victory she was, I still was not able to beat her in a straight-up match even if she does hold back. Her attack patterns cannot be predicted and even if you somehow managed to do so, she still barely gives you the chance to land a hit on her.

So it was no surprise that I lost to her again.

"Splendid fighting, Jaune!" Pyrrha complimented as I helped myself up and wiped the dirt off my hind. "You're doing great as always. You definitely won't be having any trouble with your first mission."

"You never get tired, do you?" I playfully remarked, wiping away my own sweat. "Thanks, but I could have done better."

"Oh, don't be like that. You're an amazing fighter; everyone can see that."

"I know, but I feel like I missed something."

"You're not missing anything, Jaune. In fact, I think you were getting close to beating me. That's not something I say every day."

She sounded too nice for her own good. "Well, you were holding back, so I could get the chance to beat you—but you didn't have to, I won't be able to beat you anyway."

"What are you talking about, Jaune? I wasn't holding back. Sure, we weren't allowed to use our guns and the match was purely melee, but you still did well against me. Are you saying you're not good enough?"

"I…" I hesitated to answer, glancing at my side and looking for a way to change the subject in trepidation.

"Jaune…"

"No, it's not that Pyrrha. I think I just lost focus because there was something I've been aching to tell you." I answered. I didn't want her giving me any undeserved comfort, so I'll just get to the point.

"Well, what is it then? I'm listening," She leaned closer.

Here we go. This shouldn't be much of a problem, given that I have asked girls out before and Pyrrha wasn't any different despite her social status. I've been with her long enough to know that things will be fine. "Will you accompany me to the dance?"

Her eyes widened and her face flushed while she glanced at the ground, cupping her chin before coming up with an answer. "I'll be glad to."

"Oh, so great. I think we can get back to business now." I said, shrugging off all of the potential awkwardness seeing as I finally have the answer I needed.

"Yeah, but… that was a bit sudden. Not saying that I'm embarrassed by it or anything. I just… didn't expect you'd ask me out. I mean, nobody has asked me out before."

While I knew she hadn't been taken yet and that she would have told me if she was or I could have at least found out, I was rather bewildered upon hearing that. With a girl as popular and talented as her should have been asked out at least once. "Why is that? You're Pyrrha Nikos. Guys would literally throw themselves for you."

"It's because…" she stuttered before she exhaled and shook her head. "Never mind. It's nothing important. I think we've practiced enough. We already know that we're ready for our first mission."

I just stood there and stared at her, processing what she was implying earlier. "So… we're done?"

She nodded. "We have done everything we need. Keep up the good work and maybe we'll finally unlock your semblance."

I chuckled. I kept forgetting about that until someone mentioned it. I've been here for months now, and I still don't have a semblance. Oh well, maybe I'll get it soon enough. Thankfully, I could live without it, seeing as I'm able to be prepared for just about anything.

"You're coming with me?" she asked.

"No, I'll catch up."

"Okay then." She turned back and headed to the exit. "Later, Jaune!"

I took a deep breath as I watched her leave the rooftop. After she was gone, I continued to space out, just enjoying my time alone and mumbling that I was able to ask Pyrrha out that easily. Even if I managed to successfully ask girls out previously, I still can't help but feel anxious. Thankfully, the dance itself won't be much of a problem for me; I already attended enough social events to know what to do.

I decided to call Viola out for some advice. So I pulled out my scroll and contacted her for a video call.

"Ah, Jaune. You finally called." Viola greeted me as soon I saw her face on my screen.

"Evening, Vi. Looking fine and dandy as usual. I could smell your perfume by just looking at you." I snarked, my nose picking the memory of her fragrant scent.

She made a snide chuckle. "Yeah, that's how fabulous I am. How are you doing there? Did you finally find someone to dance with?"

"Yep." I popped.

"Oh. So, who is the girl in question?" she asked with blatant curiosity.

"I think you already guessed who."

She paused for a moment before realizing who it is and started squealing. "I knew it! Our baby brother is finally becoming a man!" she cried out before turning to her left. "Hey Rouge, Jaune finally asked Pyrrha Nikos out!"

"He did? Ho-lee shit!" Rouge said in Viola's background before she appeared on my screen shortly after our elder sister called her.

Dammit, Vi. You really had to tell her, didn't you?

"You fucking did it, lil' bro! You're still a huge dork to me and will always be—but man, you're finally getting in with the freaking cereal girl."

"Rouge, please calm down. I only asked her out for the dance as partners. I'm not dating my 'cereal waifu' or anything." I told her.

"That's still a score for you! Might want to start showing your sword skills and I'm not talking about the Crocea Mors." she perversely suggested.

"Rouge!" I yelled. You think after enduring almost my whole life with Rouge that I would have gotten used to her juvenile humor, but she always finds a way to be annoying and succeed.

"C'mon, Jaune-Jaune. There's nothing to be ashamed of here. You're living the dream of every horny boy—and maybe some girls—who watched the amazing Pyrrha Nikos; you should consider yourself lucky."

"Except its nothing like that ," I told her tensely. "This is only for the dance, which is only this Sunday. I just want to use this event to know my own partner a little better since I'm stuck with her for my entire stay here."

"So you're saying that you consider dating her after you're done with that?"

I gave up and slapped my increasingly red face with my free hand. No point in trying to sway Rouge's thoughts given it's too full of chaotic mischief.

"Okay, that's enough, I think you've embarrassed him a little too much," Viola said. "So, you still have the suit I sent you?"

"Yeah. It still fits me like a glove. Still brings some disturbing memories, then again that was a satisfying night." I winked at Rouge, who responded with a smirk. "Hopefully, this upcoming night will be much more sincere than that." [2]

"Don't worry; I'm sure she's far better than that."

"Good point," I said. Pyrrha was just too much of a saint to be compared to that conceited bitch.

"Now, you also have the other thing that came out with it?

Right, that. "Yes, and it was unnecessary on your part. I'm pretty sure Pyrrha won't have any trouble finding something to wear. Hell, I think she already had one right now."

"Oh, it's not that. You know what that is for~" she teased, giving me the same grin she sports when she gave me a gender-inappropriate makeover.

Oh for crissake. This again. "I see. It's a shame that I have no reason to humiliate myself in public with it." I quipped. "Would have worn it for a lost bet, but I'm not a gambling man."

"I didn't say you have to embarrass yourself. I'm just giving it to you for old time's sake. Be sure to send us a picture of you wearing it."

"I'd rather eat my own head, thank you very much." Sorry folks, but the graceful beauty of Jane Arc will not make a comeback any time soon, probably never.

"What a shame. You're becoming less fun since you've attended. What's Beacon doing to you?"

"Frankly, I really don't know. My thoughts are giving me mixed messages about this school."

'Well, if you're not dressing yourself up. I'm bringing your album and I'm showing it to your friends—when I finally find it, at least." Rouge said.

"If you do, just be sure to burn the last two pages. You can keep the rest and embarrass me if you want. I have been through worse, you know."

They both lost their smiles and all semblance of joy suddenly disappeared after my last statement. "You didn't have to think about that, Jaune," Viola said.

"I wish I didn't," I did my best to preserve my composure. "Let's forget about that, shall we? After all, it's the last thing we want to bring up. So, any advice for the dance?" I asked just in case. Viola was engaged recently, and if anyone knows a thing or two about romance aside from Dad and Bleu, it's her.

"Just be in your best behavior. Aside from that, just be yourself. I think you got it all figured out; it's not as bad as dating, it'll be a walk in a park for you.

That's it? I should have thought that, and I wouldn't have to make this call in the first place. Last time I had a formal dance was at Bleu's wedding, so it's been a while that I almost forgot it wasn't actually that hard. Oh well, it was nice talking to my sisters again. It helped me alleviate my homesickness.

"Don't listen to her. Go nuts and make some fireworks on that joint; huntresses love that shit." Rouge childishly proposed, making Viola roll her eyes from her.

"I think I already have everything I need to know."

"Very well. Just make sure to take good care of her okay? Celebrities like her tend to be tired of the weight they're carrying" Viola said with a warm smile.

"I will. Thanks, Vi."

"Best of luck out there."

"Ey, you know who to talk to when you're feeling down, okay, baby brother?" Rouge she cut in, this time, lacking her typically smug tone in favor of affirming sincerity.

I smiled at her closing statement. "I won't forget that." I nodded as they smiled back and ended the feed.

I puffed as I put my scroll back to my pocket and headed back to my dorm. It's reassuring that my sisters still have my back in times like these. They may enjoy tormenting me because I'm their only little brother, but they're still my sisters first and foremost.

When I opened the door, the first thing I saw was Nora standing on the way, grinning, just like I predicted.

"Yeah, Nora. I get it. We're going to the dance together as a team." I said. It's not even an intuitive guess that Nora would be partnering with Ren this Sunday; anyone who possesses a single brain cell already knows that.

"Does that really mean Arkos is happening?" she asked excitedly.

I wasn't able to answer since I was dumbfounded at the anomalous term. "Arkos?"

"It's your last name put together with Pyrrha's! Isn't it clever?"

"Well, it's more creative than 'Renora', if you ask me," Ren commented, who was busy reading something with the Yin & Yang symbol at the cover. Pyrrha meanwhile, was just sitting on her bed, eavesdropping while she nervously smiles.

I already knew what that was all about. I would have remained stupefied and oblivious had I not familiarized myself with portmanteau couple names through Viola's terrible taste in literature.

"Oh, hush now, my dear Ren," Nora said to her partner before turning back to me. "You made a great decision by choosing your own partner instead of any of those role-players from Team RWBY. Now, Team Awesome will be together forever!"

As much as I hate to ruin her fun, I don't want her getting her hopes up for this. "Slow down, Nora. I'm only asking her out for the dance, but I'll promise that I'll keep this team together as long we're here, you understand?"

"Okay then! Just make sure you give her what she deserves, Fearless Leader!" she then skipped back to her bed and began conversing with Ren.

I began to go to my desk and went to study my notes and update this journal while glancing at Pyrrha from time to time. Every time we made eye contact with each other—we couldn't help but blush, as we still could not believe that we partnered with each other.

I overheard Ren and Nora talking about the animal code words for their team attacks since the portmanteau naming gave them an idea to theme their dynamic to something. For some reason, Ren suggested a bee's buzz as their signal, but Nora doesn't seem to like that.

"Ugh, Ren, I don't like bees!" Nora groaned, pulling both of her lower eyelids down as she rolled her eyes upward. "They're disgusting, annoying and they sting! I wish they could just all buzz off. They deserve to have their honey taken away from them."

"Okay then. How about bears? You like bears, don't you? Plus, they're a hive's worst nightmare."

"That's more like it!" Nora chirped up. "Make it like a panda—it suites us both well!" Looking back, I saw her clutching the teddy bear Ren won for her the other day on her chest, putting a smile on my face.

They continued to talk about a few until Nora asked him a question. "Hey, Ren. I'm not suggesting anything, but do you think that Headmaster Ozpin uses the partnering system to create romantic couples? Not saying that it means we should be together-together or anything but do you ever get the feeling?"

Ren made a chuckle, which got my attention and Pyrrha's because it's not often you hear the calm and stoic Lie Ren laugh. "Of course not, Nora, that would be unprofessional and just downright nonsensical. But I'm still glad that we ended up together."

"Yeah, you're right," Nora muttered. "It was silly for me to think that."

"You think of silly things all the time."

"Yeah, true," she giggled.

"And honestly, that's what I like about you. Without you, I would have forgotten what happiness feels like. So, I thank you for staying with me for all these years."

"Aww. C'mere you." She began putting Ren in a tight embrace, which was considered very friendly if you ignore Nora spooning him.

I couldn't help but smile at the sweet sight. Maybe a little too sweet that it's becoming suggestive. So I cleared my throat, putting the two back to their senses.

Nora quickly let go of Ren and flushed. "We're still not together-together!"

Sure you're not.

I shook my head and smirked to Pyrrha who smiled back and shrugged before I went back to my business. I really need to work on my dynamic with Pyrrha—there's so much potential between the two of us, that I'll need to start strengthening our bonds together at this dance.

=o=

1. While Ruby does have a passion for weapons, Jaune is clearly making a joke here. Though, I wouldn't be surprised if she did marry the Crescent Rose.

2. He was referring to his former date with Selene Raine, who turned out to be using him for a bet. He eventually found out her true motives and then humiliated her with the help of Rouge. A fuller account will be uploaded to the Extras section soon.

It was Saturday. Since there were no classes, Team RW_Y and I spent almost the entire afternoon on community service. After hours of cleaning, renovating and assisting the staff, we went to organize the ballroom for tomorrow's dance as our last assignment for the day, even though this was already assigned to Team CFVY (Coffee). But then again, they just arrived early from their week-long mission, so I suppose they're too tired to organize the ballroom for an activity they are not invited to.

We were told to provide a balance of a formal soiree and a youth's dance night; something with the likes of a school's prom party, which it kinda is. Likewise, Weiss handled the formal stuff with Yang in charge of the party equipment while Ruby and I assisted both of them. Blake was nowhere to be found since she called in sick, Miss Goodwitch allowed her to take a day off but still holds the hours she has to make up for.

Weiss and Yang can go a little too overboard with their respective arrangements that it's going astray from the intended plan. With Weiss trying to make the ballroom a little too sophisticated, and Yang planning to make the ballroom too much of a dance club, which led to arguments thanks to creative differences. Ruby and I had to act as mediators; diffusing conflicts and making compromises to ensure balance with ballroom's organization.

I was in charge of arranging the chairs and tables as well as helping out with the decorations. While I was in the middle of it I heard a loud thump after Yang put down a large speaker. I looked at Yang conversing with her sister who was resting her head on the table, either because she was tired or was still thinking about last Tuesday; either way, she doesn't seem to be really feeling it.

Brothers above, this team is a mess. I thought they'd be better than last semester but I don't think their issues are going to let any of that happen.

"Weiss! I thought we agreed; No doilies!" Yang scolded after seeing Weiss put fancy mats on the tables.

"If I don't get doilies, you don't get fog machines!" Weiss bolted near her.

"I don't think they're both necessary," I said. "The dance is going fine without them. We're neither organizing a cocktail party or a disco ball."

"I know we're not, but it's still a dance. And what's to set the mood and put some haze on the floor?" Yang stated.

The door suddenly opened as Sun and Neptune walked in with all heads turning at them, "Your dance is gonna have fog machines?" Neptune asked.

"Nah, it's too much," I answered. "Besides, Weiss wanted this to be a bit more—"

"We were thinking about it!" Weiss suddenly stepped in and covered my mouth with the cold hands of hers.

"That's pretty cool," Neptune said as I put Weiss' hand away and glared at her, she folded her arms and looked away from me and harrumphed.

Looks like someone's trying to impress her boyfriend.

"You ladies all excited for dress-up?" Sun asked.

"Pfftt... Yeah, right!" Ruby scoffed, someone just doesn't like fancy dresses.

"Laugh all you want. I'll be turning heads tomorrow night!" Yang boasted.

Not forcefully, I hope.

"What are you two wearing?" Weiss quired the duo.

"Uhh... this?" Sun gestures to his open shirt which still doesn't have anything underneath.

"Nice suit, then." I snarked. To be fair, it still does the same in impressing ladies, it's just not as sophisticated as the party is suggesting what we should wear. If I remembered correctly, my tux cost like five thousand lien or something. Thankfully I didn't have to pay for it since it was the same one my parents bought for Bleu's wedding a few years back.

"Ignore him for he knows not what he says," Neptune stepped up and put a hand in front of Sun's face.

Sun swiped his partner's hand away. "Hey, I may have moved to Mistral, but I grew up in Vacuo. It's not exactly a shirt-and-tie kind of place."

"Yeah, we noticed," Yang stated, looking unimpressed as her teammates.

"So where's Blake? I noticed she isn't around when she should be working with you guys."

"She excused herself so she could keep looking into the White Fang," Weiss answered in an annoyed tone. "She still refuses to let her mission go."

Sun made a sorrowful sigh. "So she's still being all, you know... Blakey?"

"Obviously."

"I still can't think of a way to change her mind," Ruby said.

"Me neither," I added.

"Of course," Sun glanced at the ground. "What did I expect?"

"Guys. Trust me; Blake will be at the dance tomorrow," she said confidently.

"How can you be so sure about that?" I skeptically asked, "She's been burning the candle at both ends since that night, and I don't she'll think have the intention to stop anytime soon."

"You're being too cynical, Vomit Boy." she she pulled out a laser pointer, "I'm gonna convince her, starting with this bad boy." she said as she began demonstrating a nearby wall.

She's kidding right? I thought as I raised my brow and everyone stared at Yang with confused looks. "You sure about that?"

"Relax, I know what I'm doing. Once Blake shows up, none of you will think I'm crazy anymore."

"I hope you're right," I muttered. Though, I doubt that proving to be able to convince Blake makes her less insane; in fact, it only makes her more insane, considering how adamant Blake is. Hopefully, she won't use her typical methods of persuasion, I know she wouldn't use it on her own teammates but one should remember that Yang was not known for using her mouth in convincing people.

"So, do you guys need any help?" Neptune asked.

"We're good. We're almost done. Besides, you guys earned your break after finally completing your sentence."

"Oh, it's nothing. It was just three days worth of chores the government made us do but thanks anyway." Neptune said before turning to me. "Jaune, if you don't mind—meet us at the courtyard when you're done. There's something we want to talk to you about."

"Fine by me." I nodded.

"Later, then," Sun said as they both turned around and left the building.

"So you were saying that you're not wearing a dress tomorrow?" Yang asked her little sister.

"C'mon sis. Isn't my outfit not already a dress enough?"

"No, it's not." Weiss asserted. "No offense, Ruby, but those aren't tasteful enough to count."

"Weiss-cream's right, Rubes. That skirt of yours won't be grabbing any boys' attention," Yang chimed in.

"Which is why I'm taking you to Vale and shop with me for clothes once we're done with this assignment."

Ruby tried protesting. "Weiss, I don't think that's—"

"Shush. As your partner, you are going shopping with me… AND YOU'RE GOING TO LIKE IT!"

Huh, Weiss is the one being insistent this time around, that's quite interesting.

Ruby groaned and went back to resting her head on the table. I decided to leave them with their girl talk and went back to business. There was still work to be done.

I left the dance hall and went to the courtyard where Sun and Neptune are waiting for me. I was somewhat hesitant since agreeing to go with them last time got me involved in that fiasco, but I highly doubt that they want to go through all that again, especially since they just finished their sentence just recently.

"So what are you two planning to do this time?" I asked them.

"Well, since Blake's not coming to the dance, I was thinking maybe you could help me out a bit," Sun answered. "I could use another wingman."

Although I'm glad that it didn't involve following Blake again and getting dragged into more life-threatening bullshit, I still questioned myself why I even bothered coming here. "Wingman? So you're telling me to help you find a date?"

"Pretty much. I should already be glad to have Neptune at my back, but I think I'll have a better chance if you come along."

"How exactly?" I raised my brow and asked.

"Duh," Neptune spoke up. "Girls have been drooling all over you ever since you stopped the robbery. With your help, we'll be able to take a girl out for tomorrow. You have a date by now, have you?"

"Yes…" I hesitantly confirmed. "Yes, I do."

"Cool. Who is she anyway?"

"It's Pyrrha," I caught my breath.

They both grinned with impressed looks on their faces. "Freaking A," Neptune remarked. "Though coming from you that's hardly surprising."

"I take it you have a date too?" I inquired.

"Nah, not yet," he answered with a confident grin as if this would be easy for him. "I'm still considering my options."

"He actually needs your help as much as I do since every girl he asked out turned him down." Sun teasingly corrected.

"Shut up, dude! I was only practicing my charm. It's not my fault they're nervous around someone as handsome as me." he defended, but if his initial tone was any indication, he's not really much of a chick magnet as he looks. [1]

"Yeah, sure." Sun scoffed before turning back to me. "So, are you up for it or not?"

A couple of pretty-boys asking help from me—some scraggly[2] dork with confusing luck—to pick up girls. I'm definitely losing my mind and agreeing to go only proved that further. "I don't see why not." I forced a smile.

"I knew we could count on you, my man." he pumped. "Let Operation: Babe Hunt commence!"

Hoo boy, this is not going to end well, I thought. If they couldn't think of a more original name for this imminent farce, then it is doomed from the start unless we somehow managed to appease Lady Luck herself.

We strolled around the Beacon campus, looking for first-year girls to pick-up for the two. There were plenty of girls we met that we took into consideration, but most of them were either already taken, not into guys, were upperclassmen who weren't eligible since it was made clear that the dance was an event only for freshmen, or wanted me instead (In those cases, we had to bail out quickly.)

Looking for available girls in Beacon was more challenging than we anticipated. It wasn't until I spotted two elegantly dressed girls conversing on a bench that we managed to find suitable candidates. After a quick eavesdrop, their demeanors and appearances indicated that they were from Atlas. One of them noticed me and gave me a wave as she looked at me.

I flushed before quickly shaking it off and turned to Sun. "You don't happen to be into Atlesian girls, do you?"

"I would if it weren't for their attitude towards the faunus."

"I see what you're coming from, but isn't it just as insensitive to assume all Atlesians are like that?" I pointed out. Maybe I took offense because I have Atlesian roots. I've been there plenty of times and while the kingdom is still somewhat backwards when it comes to the faunus, the racism there is surprisingly rare that I have seen plenty of faunus being treated like ordinary citizens. It could be because I'm only seeing them on a good day and the kingdom is just very good at hiding how racist they are. I can't exactly tell but at least they're going somewhere.

"I know but I'd rather not take my chances. Besides, I prefer girls from Mistral and Vacuo," he said before spotting four Vacuan girls in a distance. "Speaking of which."

We all turned toward that particular group, where all members were no short of beautiful. Neptune wolf-whistled to the quartet of rather attractive women. "They look as hot as the desert they live in."

Looking closer at the colorful female quartet, I recognized the two of them to be Nebula and Dew—the same two girls who approached me last Monday. It was better to let Sun and Neptune approach them without me because I'll just end up spoiling their chance since those two seem to be crushing on me.

"I'll go first." Sun rubbed his hands. "Any advice?"

"Just remember that girls are people too; they can get nervous just as much as us when we're asking them out," I stated with my past dating experiences that have an arbitrary degree of success.

"You seem to know what you're talking about," Neptune remarked.

"I've done this before." Like a lot, but that's something I'd rather not explain further.

"Well then, it's good to have you with us then," Sun said. "Now it's time to put my swag on."

"Just remember to be confident, but not too confident," I told him.

"Relax. I can do this. I'm a big guy."

"Yeah. For you." Neptune quipped.

"Watch." Sun cleared his throat and walked over toward the group. Neptune and I hid behind the corner and watched Sun's attempt at courting.

"Hey, uh, I-I can't help notice, you girls," Sun said after approaching them. "I see you're from Vacuo then."

The girls glanced at each other in confusion. "That's right," spoke the purple haired girl who I still remembered to be named Nebula. "And you are?"

"Sun Wukong. You may have heard of Team SSSN, have you?"

"No… I can't say we have," the gray-haired one with curls responded.

I couldn't see Sun's expression since he was facing behind me, but I could tell he was disappointed upon his lack of recognition.

"Well, feel free to look us up," Sun suggested. "You won't be disappointed. We do it all. Aside from hunting Grimm, we do music, acting, modeling, community work, all kinds of stuff!"

The girls continue to look perplexedly at him. "Uhh, cool." Nebula said. "We'll be sure to check that out… Uhm..."

"Sun Wukong?" he reminded them.

"Right… Sun. It was cool meeting you and all, but we need to head back to our dorms," she said, leading her group as they walked past him. "Until we meet again, I guess."

We watched as they ditch Sun and started walking in our direction. Neptune began shaking his head. "Sunny, Sunny, Sunny. You're just not using that smart monkey brain of yours. Let me show you how it's done." He fixed his collar and got out of cover before walking toward the girls.

"Neptune, wait!" I said as I followed him. That turned out to be a mistake as the four girls began facing my direction and gasped in joy. Figures.

Neptune mistakenly thought the hysteria was directed towards him. "Settle down, ladies. I know that I—" the girls then ran past Neptune, leaving him frozen in place as they approached me.

"Is it really him?!" the redhead excitedly asked as the girls circled around me. "Are we facing the Hero of Podunk with our very own eyes?!"

"Oh, yes, it's definitely him!" the gray-haired one stated.

"It's good to finally see you again!" Nebula squealed. "We heard about what you did in the city the other day. Man, you and Pyrrha were awesome!"

I was caught in a trap of admirers and the only thing I could do was engage in an amicable conversation while restraining my blush even if it's not as severe as theirs. "Good to see you too," I said, trying to put on a mask of confidence. "Enjoying Beacon so far?"

"We're loving it," Dew spoke up. "Especially with someone like you around."

I gave a smile as I did my best to restrain my embarrassment to these cute girls as they gushed about a position I'm not worthy of.

"Oh, and we like you to meet our teammates." Nebula said before indicating the two other girls beside her and Dew. "This is Octavia and Gwen. Say hi to Jaune, girls."

"H-hi!" the gray-haired one, Gwen greeted. "I-It's an honor to meet you, Jaune Arc."

"Y-You're pretty cool!" Octavia—the redhead, spurted. "D-Don't get the wrong idea, though! I only just met you." she flushed as she tried looking away. It was pretty obvious, however, that she has the hots for me as much as I'm having trouble believing it.

"Oh, Tavi. As spicy as ever." Dew gave a Cheshire grin as she teased her. "You just don't want him realizing that you want to take him to tomorrow's dance, do you?"

"S-Shut up! You said you wanted to dance with him too you know!" Octavia retorted.

"I-I did?" Dew pondered as her face grew as red as her friends, and she was already blushing to begin with. "I know he's cool and all but—"

"Girls, calm down. If anyone here is going to the dance with him then it'll be me." Nebula asserted. "I met him first, and it's my obligation as the leader of Team NDGO (Indigo) to take his hand."

"Oh, come on now, Nebula," Gwen called out. "You already had your fun with him the other day and you can't just hog him all to yourself. Besides, he deserved to be partnered with someone who is proven to be a proficient dancer such as myself."

"As if!" Dew exclaimed. "Besides, this was my idea in the first place, so it should be me to take his hand."

"I thought you didn't want to dance with him!" Octavia replied.

"And I thought you said you only met him!"

"I know but I—!"

"Ladies," Neptune said as he stepped in, putting the girls to a halt as they put their attention to him. "I heard you're all looking for someone to dance with, and I happen to be available myself."

The girls all just stared at him with unsure faces before Nebula spoke up. "Okay...?"

"Name's Neptune Vasilias; a charmer, a brilliant inventor, a valedictorian, and also formidable in the arts of Grimm hunting," he boasted as he grinned at them, showing off his pearly white teeth.

"Right..." Dew uttered. "Sorry, but we're not interested," then they all turned back to me, much to his chagrin.

"Oh come on! You have got to be kidding me!" Neptune whined as the girls ignored him.

Sorry, guys, but I have no control over these girls. If it was up to me, I'll have them fawning over you instead, but sadly, fate begged to differ now.

"Now where were we?" Nebula glanced at all of her teammates.

"The part we decided that he's coming with me," Gwen claimed.

"Oh hell no, he is coming with me!" Octavia said.

"No, me!" Dew said.

"Me!" the girls screamed at each other.

"Girls, girls," I said, calming the quartet and putting them away from each other's throats. "I appreciate all of your offers; I really do, but I already have a date for tomorrow."

The girls all whined in disappointment but quickly cheered up in understanding. "Well, good to know then." Nebula sighed. "Sorry for asking. We should have known that someone like you already has a partner by now."

"It's fine. We all make mistakes." I smiled at them. "But if you're looking for a partner, my friends of mine would be happy to help you out."

The four paused as they went to thinking, not even turning back as Sun and Neptune tried waving for their attention. "It's okay. I think we can manage." Nebula declined. I can feel the disappointment of the duo after hearing that. "We'll still be able to see each other at the dance, right?"

"Of course. We'll keep in touch. Maybe dance with all four of you even." I proposed without thinking. I really wanted to smack myself for saying that, [3] as I didn't want to make my love life more complicated by attempting to create a harem of girls.

They glanced at each other and blushed once again at the thought with Dew and Octavia biting their lips, but they were more than happy by it. "Great! We'll look forward to seeing you tomorrow then." Nebula said.

"Can't wait to see you girls too."

"Then, in any case. We'll see you around!"

"Bye." I waved at the girls as they returned my farewell and walked from me. I gazed at their cute rears swaying while listening to them as they leave.

"Nice and understanding too!"

"And to think he can fight so bravely and win."

"I know, right?"

You know, when my dad told me that girls would be chasing me rather than the other way around, I thought he was lying to me. Now it's quite clear that it turned out that he was right. I almost forget that I was here to look for dates for Sun and Neptune, not needlessly flirt with girls I'm supposed to pair them up with.

"Dude, how? Just how?!" Neptune pondered as he and Sun walked toward me. "Are you using some sort of chick magnet's body spray or something?"

"I can't say I recall using one, let alone owning one to begin with..." I began sniffing and picked up a scent of it from Neptune. "But come to think of it, I can smell one coming from you."

"What? Please... I'm way too cool for that kind of stuff." Neptune claimed.

"Not cool enough to attract girls." Sun quipped.

"Look who's talking." he retorted.

Sun turned back to me. "First Pyrrha Nikos, and then an entire team. Man, you have ways with girls, Jaune." Sun remarked. "Maybe you should get more than one partner?"

"Sun, don't give him ideas. The next thing we might know is that all single ladies are taken by Jaune and there would be nobody left for us to date with." Neptune said.

"Yeah, you're right," Sun muttered. "But I like the sound of that; Jaune Arc—the harem king! Someone would kill to get that title."

Oh, trust me. Polyamory would be the best thing to happen to me if I didn't know any better. Don't get me wrong, I do enjoy the company of being surrounded by multiple beautiful women, but having to take care of several girls would mean my time and wallet getting drained for trying to support all of them. I also have to struggle with treating all girls equally, which is a pain in the ass that it's not good for the health.

And that's only assuming if such relationships work. Even then, I still have to undergo some dramatic bullshit and keep them from each other's throats by somehow convincing them to share me. Otherwise, they would all start ganging up as they all dump me for playing with their feelings if they at least are merciful enough not to murder me or each other. So, no thanks. One partner would be enough, and I'll do my best to stay loyal to that person. [4]

I blame Dad for this. When he was younger, he said to have slept around with different women until he met Mom, where he stopped because he didn't want her to kill him. No wonder why she warned me about his romantic advice.

Eh, on the bright side, at least I know that I'm guaranteed to get laid soon.

I gave a faint chuckle. "Let's not forget why we're here. We still have to find you some partners."

"Yeah, be sure to turn off your attractiveness this time, we didn't bring you here to see you steal girls from us." Neptune said.

"I don't intend to do that," I told him… "I'll try but I don't guarantee it."

"Relax. With three of our charms combined. No one will be able to resist us!" Sun said, putting an arm over our shoulders.

At this point, you would want them to resist mine when they see me, I thought as I ponder how I am going to be done with this.

=o=

1. Despite struggling romantically in Beacon—Team SSSN was fairly popular among civilians in Mistral, especially females. They were even able to spawn a sizable fanbase centered on them.

2. Anyone who witnessed his body's build knows that this is not true, even if the depiction of his muscular stature is often exaggerated.

3. You're not the only one.

4. I sincerely hope that you're right about that.

After minutes of scouting, we were able to spot another single first-year. We were staring at Iris Clancy of Team VILE while she was playing chess with the Team CFVY member, Velvet Scarlatina below one of the maple trees near the fountain.

Despite being in the same class, Iris and I didn't talk much. [1] While she did recognize me by my title, she didn't appear to be much of a fan, thereby making her one of the most bearable classmates to deal with. I suspect that she is already with someone considering the lack of interest, only to recently find out that she was single and was open to being partnered with.

"Alright, we're at least familiar with each other—so let me take care of this one while you two stay put," I told the duo.

"Okay. Just remember to be careful not to have her fall for you." Sun replied.

I gave a silent nod since I really can't speak for that. I stood up and went to my classmate, puffing for a boost of confidence. "Hey, Iris. Hey Velvet."

The two girls as they paused their session to look at me. Iris gave a bright smile while Velvet was blushing uncontrollably at my presence. "Oh, hello Jaune. Need something?" Iris inquired.

"As a matter of fact, I do. You see I have some friends that need a date for tomorrow night, and I was wondering if you could help out for a bit?"

"What can I do then?"

"For starters, do you mind being the date of one of them? I don't mean for you to actually date them or anything, you just need to accompany them for tomorrow's dance."

She widened her eyes, flushing as she glanced around her surroundings "That's a bit sudden." she said before her face turned back to normal. "I'm sorry but I've decided I'm not going with anyone tomorrow. You better find someone else."

I groaned in disappointment but I kept my calm demeanor intact and respected her decision. "Okay then. Sorry to bother you. Both of you."

"No harm is done. I do hope your friends get what they need."

"Much obliged."

"Hey, Jaune?" Velvet's accented voice called, turning my attention towards her.

"Oh hey, Velvet. Looking lovely today." I said. The final compliment was supposed to be my attempt at being awkward, unfortunately, I forgot to make it sound like it and add a few stutters. Making me worry about the harem thing once again.

"Thank you," Her ears bent and looked away for a moment. "I just wanted to ask if you're doing alright. I heard you have gotten yourself involved with the White Fang. From what I've heard of, they aren't very nice people."

"That's an understatement. Attempting to rob a bank filled with innocents in it gives you an idea of what kind of people they are. And they're supposed to be fighters of equality or something," I stated. Now I don't claim to be a morally superior crusader who knows what he's talking about since I'm really just a dumb schmuck who got mixed into their mess. But from what I've seen from the White Fang, they've done nothing but to make racial tensions worse worse by giving humans justifications to fear them. Team CRDL bullying someone as sweet and harmless like her can be thanked by them.

"Yeah, I thought they could help but I don't think they're making things better for us," Velvet looked down. "What were you doing in there anyway?"

"I was only passing through when it all happened. I had no choice but to fight." I said, partially telling her the truth. Why am I not telling her the bigger picture should be obvious enough.

"Well, that's an unfortunate coincidence," Iris commented, and she couldn't be any more right. "Luckily you got out alive, and the White Fang got what's coming to them."

"You can say that again," I stated. "Though, it was thanks to Pyrrha that their robbery foiled."

"Props to her." Velvet said. "But from what I've heard, you were doing fine even without Pyrrha's help. You could have still won regardless."

While not really implausible if I had a clearer mind then, they weren't aware of the psychopathic ice cream midget that would have brought my demise if Pyrrha didn't intervene. "Regardless, I'm glad to have her back. Even if we are known to be capable fighters, it's still our duty to watch each other's backs."

"I get where you're coming from. Coco is pretty protective of me herself; she's pretty much why I was almost unharmed at my recent mission. It's not like she's overprotective or anything, she doesn't doubt my strength, she just doesn't like seeing me hurt. Aside from you teaching Cardin a lesson, she is also why he stopped picking on me. Say what you want about her, but she's like a big sister to me."

"I know how that feels." I snorted. "To be fair, Coco's nuts. I would do the same if she did threaten me."

"Did somebody say my name?" A voice asked. We all turned toward her and saw Coco folding her arms with Sun and Neptune behind her.

Welp, it appears that our operation has been compromised. Coco wasn't exactly what you'd call terrifying, at first glance she's just a normal fashion-loving girl with a bit of an attitude, but anyone familiar with her is aware that she could slaughter elite Grimm with only her handbag and that's without even transforming it to its minigun form. I've talked to her a few times back in some conferences between team leaders last semester. Surprisingly, she's a pretty amicable person to talk to. It's probably because I managed to get on her good side and I intend to stay there, wouldn't want my head to be crushed by a blunt purse.

"Oh, Coco! We were only discussing what we did this week." Velvet told her.

"Is it? Because from what I've heard Arc here is trying to help these two chumps find a partner for tomorrow's freshman dance." Coco sneered, gesturing towards the two.

Sun took offense. "Hey, who are you calling a chump?"

"Someone who couldn't ask out a girl despite his so-called 'charm'." she scoffed, making Sun growl as he just stands there, doing nothing about it.

"You know, I think we should move someplace else," Iris suggested to Velvet.

"Good idea," Velvet started to gather chess pieces and the board. "It was nice talking to you, Jaune. We'll keep in touch."

I gave her a nod as the two began trotting away with the chessboard. I went back to facing Team CFVY's fashionista of a leader. "Let me make this clear; no one is asking out Velvet. I was just trying to ask my classmate to take one of my friends to the dance."

"Of course nobody's asking her out. In fact, nobody asked her out last year," Coco stated.

"No one did?" I raised a brow and continued to stare at her eyes behind those shades.

She shook her head. "She was too shy to ask someone out, and the boys either thought she was too good for them, or were racist pricks, or because they were scared because of me."

That definitely sounds like her, but if anything, she deserves to be treated better than that. I thought that someone would find Velvet cute enough to ask her out. I do, but I digress. "That a shame. She's a pretty nice girl."

"Indeed she is. And if somebody tried to take advantage of that, hoo-boy." she hissed. I nervously gulped at her sadistic streak, "But you have nothing to worry about. As much you look like you could offer a fun challenge, you're just too much a gentleman from what I've heard." She then looked back at Sun and Neptune. "Though, I don't know if I could say the same for these two bozos."

"They're not bad people. I'm sure they'll get a dance, you just need to give them a little more time," I replied. As much as annoying these two can be, they really seem to be interested in being genuinely helpful, even if they are not good at showing that.

"I know. With that macho attitude, they eventually would. Which is why I think you're wasting your time with them. So how about we talk at my office instead? I'm not taking any excuses."

She has an office? I thought. While I really wanted to ask that, I wasted no time and decided that I'll see it for myself. "Are you suggesting me to ditch them?

"Like I said. I don't like those two myself, but if they could pull off their good looks and make good use of it, then they'll manage. I just want to have a word with you. One team leader to another."

"Give me a sec," I said, pointing a finger and walked toward the duo. "Sorry, guys. It looks like you're on your own for now. Coco needs me for something apparently."

"Don't worry, we'll be fine. It was nice hanging out for you for a bit." Sun said.

"Look, I should have told you this earlier, but here it is. If you're going to ask someone out, just ask them nicely; no pickup lines, no suave moves, just be yourself."

"That's a little cliché, but we'll take your word for it," Neptune remarked.

I gotta thank Mom for the advice sometime. I wonder if she gave that advice to dad when they were getting together.

"Just be a little careful. That chick sounds like she wants to break my bones." Sun warned.

I shrugged at the thought and went back to Coco. "Lead the way." I nodded at her.

She gave a satisfactory smirk as I began accompanying her toward wherever her so-called 'office'.

A couple of minutes passed, we arrived at the sophomore's dorm building and Coco took me to her quarters. Of course it turned out to be just her team's dorm. I really don't know why I even expected something else as it was improbable for a second-year student to have their own office.

The dorm was well-decorated, though. With each side representing the owner's personality pretty nicely. Coco's side looked like it belonged to a fashion star. Velvet's wall was full of photos and memos. Yatsuhashi's is oriental-themed, fitting for someone who looks like or is a samurai, even having kanji writings sticking around. Meanwhile Fox' looks simplistic compared to his teammates, then again I don't know much about Fox and it might be conveying something I couldn't understand at the moment.

"Quite the office you have here, Coco. You and your teammates even sleep in it." I quipped as I looked around.

"Yeah, I know. It takes a bit of sweat to keep it tidy," she adjusted her shades, which she was still wearing even though she's indoors.

"You're still wearing those?" I pointed at her sunglasses. Coco's fashion sense, while agreeable for the most part, can raise a few brows, I would have asked her what was the purpose of those zippers on her knees if her wearing sunglasses indoors didn't bother me more. [2]

"What? You have a problem?"

As a matter of fact, I do. Don't your eyes ever struggle with dark tint inside a building or have you been wearing them long enough that your eyesight has adjusted to them to the point that there is barely a difference between wearing one or not. "Oh, nevermind."

She quickly shrugged off the question and grabbed the pot from a coffee maker. "So... coffee?"

"I'm more of a tea type of guy, but thanks." I nodded. There was no reason for me not to simmer down with a nice, hot drink. It's not tanna, but it'll do.

Coffee with the leader of Team CFVY. Or better yet, cocoa with Coco. Heh, go figure.

She poured coffee to a mug and handed it to me before grabbing a mug of her own. "Well, whaddaya freaking know. I've been away for a week and one of the first things you did was beat up a bunch of faunus extremists robbing a bank and become a bigger hero people said you were."

"Good to see you too, and trust me, you don't even know half of it." I leaned back in my chair before taking a sip at the mug of coffee she gave me. "How was your trip, by the way?"

"It was boring," she yawned. "Just take your plain average Search & Destroy mission and stretch it long enough to last for five freaking days and you have the general idea of how we spent the last weekdays." [3]

"That sounds annoyingly tedious," I remarked. However, in my opinion, that doesn't sound bad, given the lack of excitement she apparently had. If I were to start taking missions, these low-risk types that guarantee zero casualties are going to be my ideal choices. "Still sounds better than doing chores because you got in trouble."

"Wait, don't tell me they signed you up for community service because of that bank thing," Coco firmly held her mug so it doesn't spill from her being so baffled.

"No good deed ever goes unpunished," I gave a chuckle. I'm actually glad my penalty is rather danger-free and I would take community service any day over life-threatening encounters with Grimm. Too bad I will be going back into doing Huntsmen stuff in a couple of days.

"So tell me; what are you planning on the dance now that you have Pyrrha Nikos herself as your partner?"

I almost choked on my coffee when she asked me that. Thankfully, I managed not to spit it at her and I was able to get it through my throat before catching my breath. I could have learned what it might felt like to be her opponent who just made fun of her fashion sense. "How did you know that?"

"It's today's hot topic. Though, it wasn't much of news since everyone already thought you two were dating anyway. I'm more surprised to learn that you two still aren't a real couple."

Does that how people see both of us together? "Well, I want to see where it goes first before going on a straight-up relationship. I just want to give my partner the night of her life. It's everyone's objective for tomorrow anyway." I told her.

"That's a start. You better buckle up, because sooner or later you'll be taking your partnership to the next level."

I held my coffee down. "What are you getting into?"

"Face it, Arc. Everyone wants you two together. It's much harder to find someone here in Beacon who doesn't ship you and Pyrrha."

"Wait? Ship? As in relation-shipping? That kind of thing teenage girls like to do in their fanbases?" I looked at her in disbelief. "You're kidding, right?"

"Believe it or not, it's apparently not limited to fictional couples. I know, it's weird as it sounds. Heck, I heard there are even some weirdos out there who pair me up with Velvet." she said as she put her mug on a table.

"You and Velvet, huh?" I pondered, trying not to show my amusement at the thought of her making out with Velvet before snapping out of it before she noticed. "Why is that? I mean, not saying there's anything wrong with you two getting together, hypothetically speaking. My eldest sister is married to a girl."

"I don't know, because it's cute to them, I guess? That sounds a little more reasonable than thinking that because I was the only person they saw talking to her. I do really care about Velvet because that is what a partner is supposed to do, but I NEVER SAW HER LIKE THAT." she suddenly snapped, making me flinch back that my coffee almost spilled. Coco calmed down after she took a deep breath. "Seriously, do people these days even know that platonic relationships between partners exist?"

Come to think of it. I really didn't show much affection to Pyrrha in public, yet Coco claimed that we were still popular as a pair. I suppose it was still obvious or because people like pairing them with their partners by default, which would be a rather lazy way of making couples if you ask me. [4]

"Next time I hear someone thinking that. I swear I'm shoving a carrot up their ass," she hissed. I really wish she didn't mention that because that was something I did not want to visualize in my mind. "Back on topic, since your relationship with P-Money is inevitable, you are going to need some insights on romance."

"I don't think that's necessary, Coco. My family already gave me enough advice and I've already dated before."

"Too bad. I'm still going to teach you anyway." she stirred to her shelf and grabbed a book with a red snowflake on the cover.

"The Crimson Snow Chronicles?" I said, uttering the title of the said book she was holding. The cover was enough to tell me that it's another garbage romance novel. Now before someone might bring up a certain old saying, if this is the best they could offer then I don't think I'd bother looking into it any further because it failed to appeal to me.

"Yeah, it's a pretty popular book. Maybe too popular that it's overshadowing all the other novels in the genre." Coco explained. "It's about a princess caught in a love triangle between a gardener and a knight."

"You lost me at love triangle," I said. Granted, I'm never into these types of stories and I probably won't bother reading a single page of it, but I really loathe love triangles. It annoys me on how overused it is and how usually shallow it is executed. Relationships can be complicated in different ways and yet for some reason, they always pick this dumb cliché and uses it with as little depth as possible.

"Oh come on. You haven't even read it yet. Give it a chance, you might learn a thing or two about courting a lady."

"No thanks, I think I'll be fine." Even if I did bother with it, I really doubt this is going to teach me anything. Knowledge from romance novels is just as reliable as knowledge from bad, low-budget movies.

Coco sighed for a moment. "Suite yourself. But the first two are really good. The third one sucked; it was less of a story and more of a mouthpiece for the author's political views."

Just when I thought it couldn't get any worse. "Oh wow."

"And don't get me started on its fanbase. Because of the theme of the stories, arguments tend to be heated regarding who the princess should end up with."

Taking the story too seriously to the point of fighting over fictional couples? That's the stupidest thing I have ever heard. Really, I'm trying my hardest not to burst out laughing because of how absurd that sounds. Seeing how this also extends to real life for whatever farcical reason, I hope no one takes any of that too seriously, it would be pretty sad if you think about it.

"Could be worst, at least it's not something like you know 'The Ninjas of Love.'" Coco shrugged. Ugh, she really had to mention that abomination of a 'novel'. I never read something so atrocious I almost died laughing my guts out on how bad it is while questioning myself on what the hell I'm doing with my life. "If you're in the mood, maybe you should give it a chance. I won't force you to like it."

I puffed as I sipped down half of my mug and began pondering why am I even doing so and realized that this conversation was getting too off-topic. "It's cool to know about this book and all, but this is getting us nowhere. Are we still even talking about the dance?"

"Yeah, sorry. Got a little overboard with this," she said before clearing her throat. "I take it you have something to wear for tomorrow then?"

"Yeah, I have. It's a tux one of my sisters made. It's not really the fanciest suit but it's good enough for me."

"Your suit isn't too bright or flashy by any chance, is it?" she inquired.

"What? No, it's a black tux. I know my sisters like to embarrass me, but they wouldn't go that far." I said, ignoring that they also sent a dress for me to wear.

"Oh good. You wouldn't want to make an ass of yourself when you're trying to make the best impression on Mistral's most badass darlings by overdressing yourself. Outside of weddings, those things pretty much lost their magic these days."

"You're really into fashion. There's no doubt that you'll get along with one of my sisters. She's a tailor herself, and she owns a boutique in Acadia[5]."

"Never heard of her. She sounds cool, though. I should meet her someday."

I smiled before inquiring for more advice. "Anything else I should know?"

"You happen to have a lot of admirers, do you?" Coco raised her brow, making them visible above her sunglasses.

I thought about the fangirls that have been gushing about me since El Segador's attempted robbery which elevated since my recent act of unintentional vigilantism. "Maybe," I answered hesitantly.

Coco began snickering. "You're such a charmer. Don't worry, you could satisfy these girls while keeping Pyrrha as your top priority. You could dance with as many people as you want."

I took a deep breath. The most girls I have danced during social events are usually three or less, depending on how many girls my sister tried pairing me at those times, here I might probably end up dancing several girls since I ended up making too many friendships with the opposite sex, as well as the fangirls I have to satisfy while not being too affectionate as I still don't want a harem. "Good to know."

"Aside from that, I don't have anything to say aside from what you may have already known. Unless you want me to tell you advise about being yourself and all that kind of crap." Coco admitted.

Yeah, but the thing is I haven't been myself since this whole mess started. If I keep up the act, I don't know if I could say that I'm opening up for her. I've been doing this for long enough that I'm having trouble distinguishing what is true about myself or not.

She stood up, grabbing to finish her mug of coffee while I finished with mine. At least my visit here wasn't entirely pointless. "This is a pretty nice talk. Just remember to take good care of Pyrrha. I heard that girls like her are pretty hungry for genuine love. I trust that you'll satisfy her with that then?"

"You have nothing to worry about. I'd be a bad partner if I didn't treat her well." I reassured, putting the cup at my table and stood up as well.

"Good luck out there tiger," Coco said as I started heading to the exit before she called me again. "Oh, and by the way. Your fly was down this whole time."

I glared at her before checking it out—turned out she was right. I groaned, zipping it up and went straight for the exit.

Trying to have a normal relationship in Beacon is tougher than I thought.

=o=

1. Jaune rarely converses with other Beacon freshmen aside from his team and Team RWBY, so this isn't considered a surprise.

2. She even wears them during nighttime. Make that as you will.

3. Yatsuhashi Daichi wrote an After-Action Report describing the said mission, although, like what Coco mentioned, it's hardly an intriguing read due to the dullness of the mission by Huntsman standards.

4. Sounds like they lack tasteful choices in pairings then.

5. A city located near Pucelle where the Arc family regularly visits.

Stepping out from the hallway of the second-year's dorms, the first thing I saw was Sun and Neptune standing near the entrance and that it was getting dark.

"So, what did you talk about?" Sun asked.

"Just some stuff for tomorrow. Nothing much really." I answered. "So, you two finally got someone?"

Sun just looked down and sighed while Neptune just stood there with a frown. "I guess it didn't go well then. Sorry, guys." I said. This is a bit of a surprise, these two are more good-looking than I do that they should have a date by now.

"It's okay. I think we'll be fine going to the dance on our own, who needs chicks anyway?" Sun brightened up for a bit before stretching an arm to Neptune's shoulder. "Besides, we still have each other."

"Yeah…" Neptune muttered, forcing a smile. "Hey, Jaune… I just wanted to say that I've decided that…" he paused, hesitating his statement.

"That you what?"

"Nothing. I just decided who I'm going to the dance with."

"Good to know. Have you asked her out yet?" I responded, feeling somewhat glad for him.

"Nah… actually she asked me out," he scratched the back of his back as he blushed, with Sun giving a faint chuckle.

"Really? That's good to hear. At least this wasn't a colossal failure." I said. Neptune was lucky to have Weiss drooling at him for whatever reason. [1] Otherwise, he had to go through the embarrassment of being a heartthrob who fails to take a girl to a dance.

"Yeah…" Neptune looked at his partner for a bit, exchanging nervous looks before turning back to me. "Thanks for your help. Things may not have gone to plan, but it was nice hanging out with you."

"No problem." I nodded before turning to Sun. "And sorry again that we couldn't get you a partner, Sun."

"Like I said, it's all cool," Sun reassured. "I'd like to think of this as a lesson of humility for both of us. We were too used to our popularity back home, after all."

"Uh-huh," I uttered. "Just remember my advice. Hopefully, it might net you, someone, someday."

"Trust me—after today, I don't think I'll be forgetting that anytime soon. Thanks again for your help."

"Anytime." We mutually smiled at each other before finally going in our separate ways.

I was heading to the freshman's dorm when I stopped to look at the Beacon's statue once more. The very same one where Blake revealed her secret. A statue symbolizing the bravery of Huntsmen and Huntresses—and how they are protectors of the world. The plaque below it reads Beacon's slogan: 'Victoria Per Animae Simplex' [2]

It only made me question my presence here again. It's baffling to know how far I went and yet still have a long way to go, all because I'm too afraid to disappoint anyone.

I continued to stand and stare at the statue for a couple more minutes, sighing to myself as I kept asking myself if this is all worth it. It wasn't until I heard a familiar faunus' voice that I stopped staring and looked around before spotting Blake walking toward me.

"Jaune?"

"Oh hey, Blake." I turned to face her. "Are you doing alright?"

"I wish I could say that," she looked down and faced me. "Jaune... you're not mad at me are you?"

While I did find her obsession with the White Fang to be annoying that I gave up trying to convince her, I just couldn't bring myself to be angry with her. "No. Not at all." I shook my head. "Upset? Yeah. Mad. Not really."

She sighed in relief. "Regardless, I just wanted to say I'm really sorry for the way I behaved lately. I know I've been very stubborn and have been pushing myself a lot. I have been so busy trying to chase down the White Fang that I've forgotten about who I'm doing it for."

I stared at her, slowly walking closer as I listened to her apology. "Blake..."

"I shouldn't have yelled at you yesterday, I knew you were only trying to help."

"I forgive you," I walked up to her and put my hand on her shoulder. "Just try not to push yourself too hard. We were worried that you'd break because of your restless mission against the White Fang. Take it easy. We'll even help you out once the time is right."

She sniffed and wiped a tear as she looked at me back with a smile. "I know... which is why I changed my mind and decided to come to the dance tomorrow."

That statement shocked me. I was in disbelief at first, seeing how her staunch refusal to come has been bothering us lately before beaming that she's finally convinced to come. "That's great! I'm happy that you're finally settling down. I'm really proud of you, Blake."

"Yeah, I know. I realized that I shouldn't be taking you guys for granted. You guys have been helping me even if you didn't have to. You have been the friends I never knew I wanted and I'm grateful for that."

"You're quite welcome. Just so you know, we're always here for you." I affirmed before letting her go.

She looked away as she gave blush on this tender moment before asking me a question. "So, you're still coming tomorrow, right?"

"Yeah, of course, I am. Why do you ask?"

"Do you already have a date?" she asked as she held her forearm.

"Actually, I do. I'll be taking Pyrrha out."

"Oh," she sighed, looking noticeably disappointed. "I'm... happy for you then." she poked her head down.

"Thanks..." I nervously said but I could barely hide my empathy for her knowing that she was upset that she lost her chance to come with me. This was the only idea I had to cheer her up. "By the way, Sun is looking for a partner himself, if you ever need a date, you could go ask him."

She poked her head up and slightly cheered up. "Well, I don't mind taking Sun out. Thanks for the tip. I really appreciate it."

"Just remember that I'll also be seeing you," I gave a reassuring smile. "I won't be a stranger."

"I will," she beamed. "Thanks again, Jaune."

"You're welcome."

She turned back and walked away before I knew it she was already gone. Knowing Blake, it wasn't a surprise. I looked back at the statue, but instead of feeling guilt, I felt hope.

Yang actually did it. Whatever she did to finally get her to change her mind about the dance, I'll give her credit for that. Things just got a little better.

=o=

1. This is a false assumption. I do not drool.

2. 'Victory is in a simple soul.' In the Old Imperial Language.

I woke up so late that the dorm was empty—even Ren, who was usually the last person to rise on weekends was nowhere to be found. Shaking my head and taking a shower, I went to the cafeteria to give myself a decent breakfast. I still have work in a few hours. Although the decorations at the ballroom were set for the most part, we still need to finalize its preparations.

Ordering for some mac n' cheese. I went to the tables and saw Sun waving at me, brightly smiling with a plate of bananas on his table. I moved toward him and sat at his front.

"Dude, have you heard? Blake's finally coming to the dance!" Sun enthusiastically said.

"Yeah, I know, she told me yesterday. Did she ask you out?"

"She did," He munched another banana before swallowing it. "Well, she said that she has her first dance saved for Yang. But man, I never expected she'd actually change her mind and even ask me out. What happened?"

"I don't know. Turned out, Yang was crazier than I expected." I began eating a few spoons of my macaroni. "Whatever she did to convince her, she really earned that dance."

"Yeah, you're right. It's nice to have things turning to our favor for a change, we really needed that."

"Amen to that. By the way, are you really coming to the dance with those?" I gestured to his usual outfit.

"Nah. I figured that I needed to wear something that's not going to get me kicked out. While it's not really fancy, I'll fit in just fine while still in keeping my style."

"Good to hear." I nodded before making more queries. "So, how's Neptune?"

"He's doing fine…" Sun said hesitantly. I was puzzled at his disinclination that I felt like there is something he isn't telling.

"Sounds like there's something bothering you. Are you two okay?"

"We're good. I'm just happy that he's following his heart, that's all."

"That's it?" I asked skeptically. "For a second, you were acting a little weird."

"I-It's nothing. We still just couldn't believe we're actually getting dates." he clarified before making a chuckle.

"Yeah, no one's coming alone tonight," I said. Well, not entirely true since Ruby doesn't appear to have a date, while Yang at least gets to have a dance with her partner.

He silently nodded as we went back into eating at our respective meals. Once we were done, Sun told me he'll see me later at the dance and went his separate way. I went to the ballroom to finish any remaining work before it could be used for the dance.

Our shift was quick, mostly because most of the arrangement was already taken care of yesterday. We just picked up where we left off.

"It looks like we're all set!" Yang chirped. The ballroom was transformed to be suited for a school prom. It would surely look dandy once night comes.

"Not quite yet," Weiss uttered, even though everything already looks great after hours of planning.

"What do you mean 'not quite yet'?!" Yang glared at her. "Don't tell me it's still not fancy enough for you!"

"Just hold on for a second, Xiao Long." She went to a table and slightly adjusted the flower vase above it. "There. Now, you can really say we're all set."

Yang groaned as she rolled her eyes. "Remind me never to decorate with you again, Princess Snowflake."

"Trust me. I find that to be very beneficial for both of us."

"I take it that everything's in order?" Miss Goodwitch asked, approaching us from the room's entrance.

"Yes, ma'am. Everything is in place." Weiss gestured around the room. "We kept everything tidy and tested all the equipment. The ballroom is now ready to be used."

"Very good." Miss Goodwitch gave an approving nod as she started tapping on her tablet. "I knew I could depend on you to organize this room. Consider yourselves relieved on your duty. You're going to need your remaining energy once the dance begins."

"Understood, ma'am. Thank you." Weiss bowed.

We promptly exited the ballroom. As we were heading back to our dorms, I approached Yang to acknowledge her successful attempt into coaxing Blake in going to the dance. "Hey, Yang. Good job on getting Blake to finally come. Thought that she's going to stay like that."

"I have my moments, Lady Killer." Yang boasted. "When I say I get things done, I get things done."

"I could definitely see that."

She looked back at her tracks before tapping her sister's shoulder "Hey, Rubes. Since you don't have a date. Maybe you could ask Jaune for a dance."

"Yang!" Ruby gave off a faint blush. She was noticeably trying to hold back as I do pretty much the same.

"C'mon, sis! I know you like him. It's not every day you get the chance of having a bold, dashing knight to a dance." Yang teased as I continued to walk and kept my face straight, trying my best not to be embarrassed by this.

"Yeah, I know he's cool, but it's nothing like that," Ruby replied. Yep, I'm definitely not alone in the Tormented Younger Sibling Department.

"Well, if you don't want him, then maybe I could have him myself," Yang suggested before calling me. "Hey Jaune, you don't mind giving me a dance, right?"

"Yaaang!"

"Oh, you're jealous! You definitely want him."

"Knock it off, you two," Weiss said. By the look of her face and the tone of her voice, there is something that is infuriating her. I know Weiss can be grumpy, but there was something noticeably bothering her.

"Are you okay?" I was concerned about her mysteriously disheartened behavior.

She puffed. "I'm fine," she said. She's acting like Sun and Neptune recently. But that's probably just me. Of course, she's fine, she's dating someone in the same league as her and just wants a great impression. Why am I even worried about her?

We went to our respective dorms and spent the afternoon doing our own thing while preparing for the dance.

Glancing at the dorm room's clock and seeing that it's 8:54 P.M. I took one last look at the mirror displaying my own figure that was now clad in formal attire. My hair was combed to be less messy than usual and I donned a black tuxedo with red trims and a red bow-tie as well as a gray vest underneath it.

Personally, I prefer ties instead of bows. I just find them a bit more stylish while still being simple and relatively more comfortable to wear. But overall, I look fine. I got to be grateful to Viola for providing me decent clothes over the years.

Putting aside an empty cup from where I consumed tanna from before dressing up since I didn't want any of it spilling on my tux, I decided that I'm all groomed up and ready to go.

The door opened as Ren walked in, donning a tux similarly designed as mine, but with purple trimmings and a bow with matching color. "So, you're ready to go?"

"As ready as I'll ever be," I replied. He gave a nod as I accompanied him to where we would take our date out.

Earlier, Pyrrha and Nora told us to meet at a specific location marked at exactly 9:00 P.M. We didn't have any reason to object, so we had no choice but to comply. The marker eventually led us to the academy's statue monument, where it was empty save for the two of us.

Checking my scroll's clock, it was 8:58 P.M. Meaning we were just in time and just have to wait for a couple of minutes. We both just stood there behind the statue in awkward silence, barely minding each other and not making a sound aside from a single whistle I made to root out uneasiness between us as we waited for our partners.

Yeah, this is pretty much what hanging out with Ren feels like. He definitely doesn't talk unless spoken to or when he needs to. I don't mind that, though, as I appreciate his straightforwardness and professionalism. He does say and do some very weird stuff from time to time, for example, he talks about the 'machine spirit' or something when he sees someone use any type of technology. This is probably because he was with Nora for who knows how long.

As the clock finally hits nine, sounds of footsteps promptly emitted behind us before Pyrrha's voice spoke up.

"Are you boys ready?"

Before any of us answered, we turned around and was stunned to see our partners clad in their formal wear, with our eyes widening and our jaws dropping, giving Ren an expression I thought I would never see him sport.

Pyrrha was wearing a long red dress reaching from her collar to her lower leg, still wearing the crown she regularly wears. Nora's pink dress, while being shorter than Pyrrha's, it was much more modest, and it suited her bright personality.

"So, Jaune. How do I look?" Pyrrha asked.

"I...uhh I...uhh I...uhh." I was too befuddled to make a proper answer, especially compared to Ren who immediately snapped out of it, probably because he was used to Nora and because he saw worse even if her closet turned out to be full of surprisingly harmless-looking clothes, at least that's what I remembered.

Pyrrha chuckled. "I'll take that as a compliment then."

I shook my head out of my stupefied state. I cleared my throat and asserted. "A-Alright, everyone. Now that we're here—let's have a night we won't forget, shall we?"

They all nodded before Pyrrha and Nora stepped in and offered their respective partners hands. While I may have held hands with many different girls in my life, I was still astounded when I took Pyrrha's hand. It was soft and gentle that it felt natural and it never felt forced when she held me back. I could only smile at her as I accompanied her to the ballroom with our teammates at our side.

When we arrived, the first thing we saw was Yang standing on a podium greeting guests as she spots us.

"Well, if it isn't Hero-boy and Wonder-girl!" Yang pointed at us with some finger guns. "Good to finally have you guys here."

"Nice to see you, too. You look great by the way." I responded, complimenting her white dress, which seems to have flattered her. "Place looks fantastic. Looks like our work did pay off." I looked at the ballroom and saw the results of our arrangement; it perfectly captured the young romantic atmosphere we were aiming for. The dance floor was already filled with pairs dancing to the ballad of the tune playing in the room. The music was being administered by two DJs wearing robotic helmets while still donning their tux.

"You betcha!" she pumped. "Now, what are you waiting for? Go on and have fun!"

We beamed at her for one more time as we moved past her and into the dance floor. I looked back at Pyrrha while standing in the middle of the floor, ignoring the glances directed at us as some of the recognizable faces of the first years.

"So…" Pyrrha uttered, as she slightly bobbed her head down and sported a slight blush.

I stared at her and noticed her nervousness, which puzzled me considering how normal it is for her to be at the center of attention. I decided to ask her to start dancing as I thought it would ease her mind for a bit. "Should we begin?" I held her hand once again.

"Of course." she promptly nodded and returned my offer and put her other hand on my shoulder as we began to slowly sway to the rhythm of the music.

Turning to my two other teammates, they were in the act as well. They looked back with bright smiles on their faces as Ren nodded at me. I beamed at them before we went back enjoying our respective partners.

I kept eye-contact with Pyrrha's emerald eyes, just enjoying the music and not really caring around the world or anyone else around me (maybe except when I had to watch for other couples so I could not hit them in this packed ballroom.) Pyrrha was enjoying herself. Her dancing was adequate, not that it really mattered to me. The thing that was bothering me is that she would glance at her side from time to time and look somewhat anxious before hastily looking back at me.

"You look nervous. Have you ever danced before?" I asked her gently.

"Actually I did," she reassured, not really surprising given her popularity. "It just feels a bit strange that I am actually doing it with someone I actually know. Most boys I danced with were strangers that my friends paired me up with."

"I certainly know how that feels." I sympathized, musing at the social events my family dragged me to. "Not a lot of boyfriends back home, do you?" I asked before realizing my poor choice of words. "I-I mean that you don't really have a lot of boys that are your friends, that's what I actually meant." I chuckled nervously.

She giggled. "Next to none," she glanced down. "You were actually one of my first."

"I am?" I pondered, raising one of my brows.

"Yes, you are. And a good one at that," she smiled brightly at me.

I returned the smile, beneath it lies a semblance of shame when I remembered that I was still using her as a meat shield and intended to use her next mission, along with everyone on my team. I kept my positive manner as I didn't want her or anyone to notice my dilemma and just want to enjoy that moment, without anything including my own self ruining it.

As I continued to dance with Pyrrha, I looked around the other partners in the ballroom as they had a good time. One that caught my attention was Sun and Blake happily dancing with each other. Seeing them both content was uplifting since they were rather dispirited prior to this. Blake spotted me and flashed a smile. I returned the smile to her and glanced at the side to see her teammates standing by, all with satisfied looks on their faces.

Given what we have to go through this week, it's nice for good things to happen to us for once.

Minutes went by on Pyrrha's comforting company, and we eventually stopped. Giving her another warm stare, I escorted her to our table, I did not let her go until she was seated comfortably on her chair.

"There's plenty more where that came from," I said with a grin.

"Can't wait to see what you have to offer, then."

I turned back and looked around the ballroom. "I'm just gonna roam around and explore. Need a drink?"

"I think I'll be fine, but thank you."

"Okay then. I'll be back before you know it." I gave her one last nod before walking away.

I headed to the buffet to get some free food, which I found to be the best part of these types of gatherings. Social events can be very boring, but on the bright side, you get to eat something nice without wasting a single dime whether it's a fine cuisine or a delicious dessert.

I stopped when I saw that I was being approached by the Great & Powerful Ozpin. He was still wearing the same apparel as he has always been wearing, which I couldn't blame him enough since that's formal enough for himself. What irks me the most is that he still has his mug with him. I'm not sure if that's the same mug or if he had several mugs of similar design.

"Enjoying the night so far, Mr. Arc?"

I'm enjoying it as much as you enjoy seeing me suffer if that's what you're asking. But as much as I want to ask him that, I'm afraid that I have to stay on his good side, otherwise, I'd be making him happy to throw me to even worse crap as retribution. "I can't really say that I don't," I answered as politely as I could.

"Very well. You should continue to enjoy it while the night is still young. Like one's youth, it should not be taken for granted. Events such as these give you a chance to lift your spirits up before an upcoming storm."

Considering it was scheduled a day before we have our first mission, it won't be a surprise if this was our last chance to celebrate before our possible demise. "Well, If anything I'm going to make sure that this won't be my last."

"I can reassure you; you are guaranteed to see more nights with the likes of this." Ozpin smiled at me before turning his head back to the dance floor. "If you think about it, fighting and dancing aren't so different. They are both considered art that requires physical prowess that the two are occasionally combined. [1] One example of their similarities would be two partners interlocking, although one wrong move on the ballroom merely leads to a swollen foot. You happen to be proficient at both fields, have you not noticed?"

"My family taught me everything I need in life, and I'm grateful for that."

"Your family does deeply care about you; I hope you act the same to those around you. It's not every day that friends are able to come together like this. Time has a way of testing our bonds, but it's nights like these that can help keep them stronger than ever. Nights like these are ones we'll never forget."

Watching the ballroom again I could see Ren and Nora dance for a bit before being tangled together in an embrace, that image warmed my heart. While I still don't like Ozpin, I can definitely see what he's coming from.

"I shall be off now. Please have a nice evening. I have plans for you tomorrow." he said before walking away.

His last sentence froze me. What did he mean by that? When I finally stopped spacing out, he was already gone.

Scanning around the ballroom, I spotted some of my teachers; Professor Port was telling one of his tales to Doctor Oobleck. That was then I found where Ozpin went. He was beside Miss Goodwitch who I saw was invited by someone who looked like the Atlesian guy on the hologram that day. He really might or might have not been the same person.

Before I tempted myself to approach Ozpin and question what he planned to do with me, I saw Ruby alone on the punch table, looking downcast. Whether she was feeling alone or was still haunted by that night, I had a friend in need.

Grabbing a marshmallow and dipping it to the chocolate fountain before eating it whole. I went toward her and asked what was disturbing her.

"Hey," I said, prompting her to look up and face me across the table. "You alright?"

"I'm fine. I'm just not really feeling this up." her expression was a little better than I thought, but she was undoubtedly perturbed by something. She was wearing a dark red dress that still fits her perky goth persona but she doesn't seem to be comfortable in it.

"Not really your kind of party, is it?"

"I guess you could say that." she nodded. "Don't get me wrong. I like parties as much as the next guy, but I'm not really into fancy parties where you dance with someone and stuff like that."

"You'll learn to appreciate it," I gave her a comforting smile. "I didn't like these types of parties either, I thought it was just so people could play matchmaker with you. But it also helps because you get to learn with others more."

I looked at Sun and Blake who appeared to be done dancing and were now making their way back to their seats. "Blake looks like she's having fun," I added before taking a sip.

"I'm really happy for her." Ruby beamed before frowning once again. "It's just too bad that I can't say the same for Weiss."

I almost spat out my punch over that revelation had I not been able to swallow it and make me choke for a bit. "What do you mean?"

"Weiss came alone. She said that she had too much to focus on to worry about boys," she clarified.

Looking at my side and seeing Weiss all alone, trying to make a wilting white rose stand in vain before looking at Neptune who was chatting up with Sun and Blake. I could see why those two were anxious before this dance started. "Oh, yeah. I see that..."

"It sucks. I know Weiss can be a bit unbearable sometimes, but she's not really a bad person. Once you get to know her, she's actually an okay friend; shopping with her yesterday was pretty fun. It's pretty upsetting to see her alone."

I feel pity for her. While I dislike her attitude and we weren't really on the best of terms recently, Weiss can be a decent person to be around with. I could still remember having a pleasant conversation with her after our first day of class; I believed she deserved better.

Neptune apparently was done conversing with Sun and Blake. Finishing my punch, I decided to confront him about this. "I gotta go. Try to have fun for a bit. We might not even have another party like this."

"Trust me, I'll try." Ruby made an assuring nod.

I inconspicuously trailed Neptune as he walked right up to the stairs, blending with the crowd full of well-dressed students. I did receive glances from some students but they were oblivious with my intentions that they immediately ignored me. Taking the stairs then taking a short walk through the halls of the second floor. I followed Neptune to the balcony, where he was leaning at the banister and staring up at the night sky.

He heard my footsteps entering the balcony and turned around. "Oh hey, Jaune." I just noticed he still has his goggles on his forehead while wearing that tux. Typical huntsman fashion sense. "Sooo, what's up?"

"I'm doing fine. How about you?" I replied calmly while feeling somewhat cold to him.

"Just getting some fresh air."

There was a pause for a few seconds. I kept staring at him while his sight wandered. "So, how's your partner?"

"Yeah, about that..." Neptune nervously uttered. "Listen... I kinda... screwed up."

"I know. You came to the dance alone, didn't you?" I queried.

He shamefully nodded. "Yeah, b-but I wasn't really lying when I said that someone asked me out, I just ended up rejecting her."

"Weiss..." I looked away for a second, musing about how she displayed affection to him. While it indeed baffles that she was enthused with him out of nowhere since they first met. She didn't really deserve to be rejected like that.

"She told you, didn't she?"

"Not really, I just found out." I corrected, which seems to have slightly reassured him. "Why did you turn her down like that? You had trouble getting a date and you ruined your only chance!"

"Look, man, I wanted to take her out. I really do!" he claimed as he began to look down. "I just realize that it won't work out..."

"Won't work out? What do you mean?"

"It's kinda silly. Really." he gave a faint chuckle before making eye contact once more. "Would you promise not to tell anyone?"

I rolled my eyes and crossed my arms as I hesitantly took his word. "I cross my heart and hope to die, just tell me what's wrong."

He sighed and admitted. "I can't dance."

My eyes widened as I froze. "Excuse me?"

"I can't dance, man—really!" he spurted. "Had I thought of that sooner, I wouldn't have bothered trying to pick someone up for this night. I may be skilled in some fields but dancing isn't one of them."

"But... didn't you say that you guys used to make music?"

"We did, I just didn't do any dancing. I only composed the music and did some of the singing. Well, my singing was auto-tuned—but you get the point. [2]"

I glanced at my side and sighed. "That explains it then." Although laughably pitiful, I emphasize with him. It's perfectly understandable that you don't want to make a fool of yourself of trying something you know you can't do, but I wish he would have told me that sooner instead of making me think that he got a date.

"Look, dude. I know I just made her lonely down there and it's my fault. Take her, I think you deserve her a lot more than I do; you're everything that I'm not. Just please don't tell anyone."

He's partially right, he's not a lying, cheating lowlife like me. I don't think I deserved her either but if Weiss was to cheer up then she deserves to be with someone she actually likes.

"Do you really like Weiss?" I asked him.

"Yeah, I mean I really don't know her too well yet, but she seems pretty cool," he answered. "I know I shouldn't have rejected her like that, but like I said, she's better off with you."

I was not letting two of my friends be lonely tonight. "Thanks, but... I think you should be one taking her. I mean, she approached you. And don't worry about dancing, I think you'll be fine."

"Yeah, but what am I going to tell her, man? I don't think I could show my face to her ever again after I blew my chance with her."

"Just remember what I told you yesterday."

"Oh yeah, what was it again?!" he put his finger on his chin. "'No pickup lines. No suave moves. Just be yourself.' Was it?"

I firmly nodded, which seemed to have brightened him up.

"You sure about this?"

"I trusted my Mom when she told me that. I haven't found her to be wrong on something so far."

"You're such a momma's boy, aren't you?" he commented. "Not that there's anything wrong with that, I love my mom too." he took a deep breath. "Well, if that's what got chicks into you, I'll take your word for it. Just remember not to tell anyone that I can't dance."

"Your secret is safe with me." I reaffirmed. "Go talk to her. I guarantee it'll make her night."

"Thanks, Jaune. You're too good for this world, I really mean it." he went close to me and offered me his fist.

"Don't mention it." I bumped his fist with mine to return the gesture.

He then walked past me and exited the balcony with his newfound confidence. I just stood there alone, feeling the breeze of the ballroom's exterior. While I was happy that I did help out some of my friends, it only made me wonder if I had gotten too close with my colleagues. I knew that I had to make bonds with them so that they could aid me through this school year, but I know that eventually, I had to abandon these people one way or the other. I pray that it wouldn't have to come to that.

I was so caught up in my own cogitations that I did not hear the footsteps coming from the heels of a certain redhead.

"Jaune?"

"Oh, Pyrrha." I turned my head out of surprise. "So, how's the party?"

"So far it's been great; Ren and Nora are having so much fun," she answered before giving me a worried look. "Are you okay? Is there something bothering you?" she stepped in a little closer.

I held my blush. "N-N-No! I-I'm doing fine. You know these parties, they can get rowdy enough that you need some time alone."

"Uh-huh." she slowly nodded with hesitation. "Well, you don't mind if I stay here with you for a minute?"

"No, not at all. Why would I ever shun away the presence of my partner?"

"Well then." She moved closer until she was next beside me on the balcony.

Once again we were gazing at the nightly scenery of Beacon together. The scenery was vast enough that you could see the Beacon tower in all its glory there. Looking away from the view and at Pyrrha, her beautiful face was appreciating Beacon's landscape peacefully.

Turning my head down, I saw that her hand was resting on the stone banister beside mine. I was tempted to hold it, hesitantly guiding my hand to hers. I know I already held her hand at the dance, but this was different—we were alone with each other, and holding hands is a sign of affection that indicates something beyond friendships.

"Jaune..."

I immediately shook my hand away from hers when I was hovering my palm to the back of her hand. "Yeah, Pyrrha?"

She turned her head to me. "I just wanted to say that I'm very grateful to have you as my partner and teammate."

"You're quite welcome..."

"You've been a great friend and leader; for these past months, I cannot be more thankful for that. You've given me something I thought I would never have."

"Never have what?"

She looked back to the balcony. "You see, I've been blessed with incredible talents and opportunities. I'm constantly surrounded by love and praise, but when you're placed on a pedestal like that for so long, you become separated from the people that put you there in the first place."

That's what I'm also worried about. Aside from my guilt of upholding an image that I don't deserve, I also have to preserve my humanity before I become too much of an idol. It's cool being known more than just plain old Jaune Arc, but at the end of the day—that's just who I am. It's no wonder I get along with Pyrrha, she seems to be bearing the same problems that I'm trying to face or am preparing to face.

She faced me again. "Everyone assumes I'm too good for them. That I'm on a level they simply can't attain. It's become impossible to form any sort of meaningful relationship with people." she began smiling. "That's what I like about you. When we met, you didn't even know my name. You treated me just like anyone else. And thanks to you—I've made friendships that will last a lifetime; I cannot be more thankful than that."

I smiled knowing how she is appreciative of me. But at the same time, I couldn't help but feel stricken at my own conscience that I managed to successfully gain her respect to further my selfish intentions. Our friendship may be genuine, but unfortunately—I still have my own plans.

There was a short pause afterward. Pyrrha then caught her breath. "I'm rambling, am I?"

"No worries. I'm grateful to have you too as well. We'll get through this together."

She looked at me brightly and went to stay at my side for a few more minutes until she decided to leave. "I'm going back downstairs. I'll see you there."

I watched her leave the balcony before I found myself to be alone once again, only this time—I felt peace within myself after spending some time with her; feelings of self-conflict suddenly vanished.

Maybe I shouldn't think about myself too hard for now.

=o=

1. This is true. Due to the vast similarities between dancing and fighting, there are several martial arts and fighting styles that originated from dance or vice-versa. My fighting style, for example, mixes fencing with figure-skating.

2. This had more or less explained why Neptune's 'singing' sounded odd when I listened to them the first few times.

I went downstairs, once again hearing the indistinct murmurs of the partygoers enjoying the night. Watching the dance floor among the crowd, I saw Neptune dancing slowly with Weiss. Sure he was noticeably nervous, as he was watching his steps to make sure they don't land on her feet but Weiss looked really happy that Neptune finally decided to dance with her, and I couldn't help but smile.

Shifting my gaze, I turned again to Ren and Nora who looked like they were having the time of their life with their tango dance together with a few even cheering on them. These two are pretty surprisingly adept dancers themselves. The passionate synergy the two display during the dance makes it quite hard to believe that these two aren't 'together-together' as Nora might say it.

I continued to watch the two for a moment before seeing something else that caught my attention. I spotted Penny dancing by herself while being escorted by two Atlesian Guardsmen. I'd approach Penny and ask her about what happened last Tuesday if it weren't for them, the fact I once ran away from two of these guys doesn't really help, so I decided to ignore her for now.

It was then I resumed walking. Unfortunately, I also wasn't paying attention to where I was heading, so I ended up colliding with someone. He turned around and I saw the unamused face of Cardin, holding a glass of root beer at his hand

Although he was a face that did not bother me for a long time, my hands instinctively reached at my waist even though I didn't have any weapons holstered. I tried my best keeping a straight face and not showing a semblance of fear as my inner being trembled at his glare.

But to my surprise, he didn't do anything to lash out, but instead his face softened. "Long time, no see, Arc."

Feeling a mixture of relief and surprise. I stood upright and replied. "Ditto, Winchester."

As much as I wanted to walk away, I just couldn't. There was something astonishing about Cardin's lack of hostility that I decided to remain where I was standing. He just looked for a second before talking once again. "Nice night, isn't it?"

I glanced away and looked at the ballroom for a second before making my response. "Yeah," I said, for the lack of a better statement.

Cardin took a sip from his drink and sighed as he gave me an empathic look. "Hey, I'm sorry for the way I treated you in the first month. I admit that I was an ass and you really didn't do anything to deserve what we did to you."

If he knew me more, I doubt he would be saying that but I was more than happy to accept his apology. Aside from locking me at my own locker and throwing saps that led me into the White Fang's shitlist, his bullying didn't really bother me that much. "All in the past. You're not picking on anyone, are you?"

"Nah, don't worry. It's mostly Russel and Dove, the ones that screw around and I'm trying to tell them to knock it off," he said in an annoyed tone. "Anyway, you're cool in my book, especially with what you did to the White Fang a few days ago; I never liked those freaks."

I sighed to myself and looked away from him for a moment. "Someone had to do it."

"And you were right to jump to the call." he smiled before raising his glass. "To Jauney-boy."

"To Jauney-boy." I only nodded as I wasn't holding a glass to return his toast.

"Say, has Russel and Dove tried messing with you lately?"

I shook my head. "Not really." Well, unless you count Russel's failed assassination attempt on me during the food fight last Monday.

"Oh good. I was afraid that those idiots would try to get us in trouble with you again." He wiped his forehead in relief.

You can say that again, I thought.

"So, we cool?" he asked.

"We cool." I gave him a friendly smile. He brightened up as he finished his drink. We were mutually satisfied that we are finally able to make up with each other.

I left Cardin as I began heading to the seats and approached Sun and Blake. Sun was wearing an outfit no less similar to his usual clothes, aside from the fact that his shirt was now dark gray instead of white and was wearing a white tie, basically keeping his style while somehow making it adequate enough to be counted as formal attire.

Blake was meanwhile wearing a purple dress that still retains her mysterious beauty while looking absolutely gorgeous.

"Yo, Jaune. I don't know what you just did, but I'm glad to see Neptune finally getting the guts to bust a move," Sun said, looking happier recently.

"You're welcome," I replied before turning to his date. "You look beautiful tonight, Blake."

"Thanks." She flushed to her side, her bow noticeably twitching. "So... Jaune, you don't mind taking me out for a bit?"

"Sure," I replied. She beamed in excitement as I turned to Sun. "You okay with this, Sun?"

"Oh, don't worry about me. I just saw her dance with Yang and it really didn't bother me. It's kinda sweet, actually." he reaffirmed.

"Right then," I said before gently taking Blake's hand. "Shall we?"

She nodded in response and stood up. I took her to the floor before partaking in a partner dance together.

Dancing with her was quite pleasant, she seemed to be enjoying my company with a smile that I don't usually see her sporting.

Minutes went by swaying our interconnected bodies went by without saying a single word to another, I noticed her look upset for a moment.

"Something bothering you?" I asked, concerned about her well-being.

"Oh, I-I'm fine. I was just thinking about the times when you came for my help; I still feel a little guilty for getting you involved in them."

"You don't need to worry about that. You're here, and we're all happy that you came; that's what matters right now."

"I guess you're right I do really need this. It's actually nice to settle down for once in a while. Makes me ashamed of myself for trying to turn everyone away for the past couple of days."

"We earned this. We're gonna have our first missions tomorrow, so why not make most out of this night while we still have the chance?"

"Can't argue with that. Thanks again for everything you've done to help me. You're one of the nicest people I've met. I don't think I'm ever going to regret coming here."

"Your welcome. Just doing what a good friend would do."

She frowned for a moment before quickly turning it upside down. We continued to dance for a few more minutes, savoring the soothing presence with each other.

"So, how's with you and Pyrrha?" She suddenly asked.

"We're doing great. I always wanted to know more about her aside from the things everyone already knew. We're working on getting close. Well, we're not that close but we're getting there."

She hummed for a moment. "Well, whatever the case. I'll give my best wishes to both of you."

"Thanks. Our friendship means a lot to her; I'll do my best not to let her down."

Once we were done, I escorted her back to her seat where a content Sun was waiting.

"Thanks again."

"You're welcome, Blake."

Sun gave me a thumbs-up as I gave him a nod, I turned back and was startled when Team NDGO suddenly approached me to my front. They were wearing dresses colored purple, green, gray and blue respectively.

"Oh, we finally found you!" Nebula squealed along with her teammates. "We're not bothering you, are we?"

"Wha-what?" I stammered before answering. "N-No. Don't sweat it, I'm fine."

"Oh, nice. So, you don't mind if we take you out for a dance? Just for a bit? It won't take long."

I hesitated for a moment before I decided to accept as there wasn't any real harm of being invited to a casual dance from people who simply like you. "Sure why not, it's a party after all." Looks like yesterday's operation did pay off, for me at least. While I do find these girls to be attractive and consider myself lucky that they want me—I still don't plan at being polyamorous, I just thought I'd be nice with these girls and just give them a friendly dance.

"Yes!" Nebula pumped up with her teammates who are just as excited. Nebula turned back to her team. "Okay, as the leader I'll be taking him first. Don't worry, you'll get your chance, you'll just have to wait for your turn."

"As long as you're not hogging him, it's fine by me," Octavia said.

"Good." Nebula turned back to me and took my hand. "Now let us not waste any more time."

I glanced back at Sun and Blake, who were giving confound looks as Nebula drags me to the dance floor.

And there I was—dancing with a fan that adores me for things that I did not intend to do. If Dad was here, he'd be so proud at the number of girls I managed to get a dance with. She was a little anxious, as she was partaking in a partner dance with her idol who she taught was a courageous hero, but she was nonetheless enjoying it and reduced her anxiety by talking about stuff about Vacuo and her team, which was a little too much that I didn't remember enough to write it down. But she did bring up a question that caught my attention.

"This is going to sound a little weird but... are you and Pyrrha together-together?"

I was instantly reminded that certain kinds of people enjoy pairing me with Pyrrha. That question slightly made me sweat, but I still managed to answer as politely and gently as I could. "No, I don't think so. Well, not yet anyway. But we do care deeply for each other; it's what partners do."

"Okay then," she muttered. "Sorry for asking; we just get a little too curious sometimes, and because you two seem to be pretty close."

I just shrugged off my own musings and continued to dance. Their thoughts of me are pretty harmless for the most part and it's actually kind of cute for them to think that, if a bit weird.

Dew came in and cleared her throat. I gave a nod to Nebula and shifted to her teammate. Dew was softer and was slightly more confident than Nebula, though her agitation with me was still visible.

I continued to dance with her until it was Gwen's turn. I've heard of her being a ballet dancer so our dance contained more movement compared to the ones I had with my previous partners. Aside from that, the only thing I could say about her is that she had the most elegant dress among her team.

Lastly, it was Octavia's turn. Octavia was easily the most emotional among her teammates. She was pouting at me while her face was almost as red as her hair. It took a bit for her to calm down and showed that she was enjoying it as I gave her a friendly look.

I noticed Pyrrha on her back, standing in the middle of the dance floor, waiting for me. Octavia noticed my stare and looked back.

"Oh," she said. I nodded to her, as she gave me one last bright smile. I gave her a spin before taking her back to her team.

"It was nice dancing with you, Jaune." Nebula said, with her and her teammates each giving satisfied looks.

"Thanks for the company, ladies. Now if you excuse me, there's someone else I need to satisfy." I said before I turned back and went to Pyrrha and took her dance once more.

"Having fun, Mr. Arc?" she playfully asked.

"As a matter of fact, I certainly am." I smugly replied. "Don't worry though, I haven't forgotten about my partner."

She gave a chuckle. We swayed our bodies to the ballad when it eventually became slower and quieter as the lights in the ballroom faded down, giving the ballroom a more tranquil tone, with the dancers around us began moving slowly.

I gazed into Pyrrha's eyes as they illuminated in the room, her beautiful face and the soothing atmosphere of the ballroom made me forget all my troubles. All I could think of at the moment was her.

"So, I've been thinking about what you said earlier," I said. "You really never had a friend like me before, did you?"

She glanced down for a moment and hummed. "I used to have a few friends but I haven't spoken to them for a long time. I couldn't blame them. When I became increasingly famous, I got too distant from them that they thought that I had forgotten about them." She began to frown as I stood there and listened firmly. "They said that they couldn't see me the same way they saw me before I won my first tournament. Ever since then, competition became the only thing I've known, and I never made any meaningful relationships outside of my own family. That is until I met you and became part of this team, and I finally remembered what it's like to have friends again."

She returned her smile as I gave her a comforting embrace, showing her how much I genuinely care about her despite my self-serving behavior. I did see her be more than a pawn; I always enjoyed our study and training sessions together, and the more I have gotten close to her, the more I'm happy that she's my partner aside from her talents in battle. "As long as we're still partners, I'll always have your back."

I could feel her return the embrace as I comforted her on the dance floor. It was when I experienced such warm peace that I've never felt before, and I didn't want it to end and I'm sure she doesn't either.

As I was hugging her, I saw that Weiss was staring in front of me. She was still dancing with Neptune but her eyes were locked onto mine while her partner seems to be oblivious at her expression. I curiously stared back at her, putting us on eye contact for a few seconds until she began to look away from me regretfully. It puzzled me for a moment while keeping the same frown I held before abandoning the thought.

Pyrrha and I let go of each other afterward as we continued to dance slowly to the music. This went on for another minute until it abruptly stopped as the spotlight illuminated above the DJ.

"May I have your attention please?" Nora's enthusiastically distinct voice spoke on the microphone. We all turned to the DJ's corner, only to see Nora behind the DJ mixer with Ren at her side, looking like he's making sure she isn't breaking anything. The two actual DJs were standing behind them.

Nora cleared her throat. "Alrighty, since we're in a party that was meant to show the best of us. Allow me to present to you The Pride of Mistral and her partner who recently foiled a bank robbery—The Defender of Podunk!"

Oh no, she's not going to do what I think she's doing, is she? I asked myself as I stood there.

"Ladies and Gentlemen, please give it up for Jaune Arc and Pyrrha Nikos!" she gestured and put the spotlight toward us.

We both froze as everyone in the room was staring at us. I turned to Pyrrha as we looked at each other, "Heh. Nora." I shrugged before offering my hand to her. "So, shall we?"

"I see why not," she replied with a smirk and took my hand.

The lights turned back on and a faster, upbeat song began playing. People say that I'm a decent fighter as well as a great dancer, and since Ozpin mentioned earlier that dancing and fighting are similar, Pyrrha and I are going to show this crowd how we spar.

We waltzed around the ballroom, displaying our synergy and coordination as partners. The audience began to cheer at our impressive choreography as Pyrrha and I savor the moment.

Our dance ended with a dip. We looked at each other as we panted while hearing the applause of everyone in the ballroom. We smiled before we stood back up and went to our table together and got some rest as everyone resumed their activities on the floor.

I have to admit, I'm rather thankful for Nora for bringing us to this moment, it's something that I'm never going to forget.

We settled down at the table, watching everyone enjoy their night. Our friends were having no less fun, with Neptune dancing like crazy alone. The only thing that bothered me was I noticed that Ruby was missing. I shrugged off the thought, she was probably hiding somewhere considering she's not a fan of these types of parties.

I suddenly heard doors being slammed open. I looked around until I saw two Atlesian Guardsmen searching around the ballroom as everyone goes with their own business not minding them. Seeing as they couldn't find what they're looking for they turned back and closed the door, making me somewhat curious at what they're up to, but chose to ignore it since it's not my problem.

Like all good things, it sadly had to end. It was already past midnight. Before it ended, there was a short awards ceremony. I won gentleman of the night, probably because of how everyone was charmed with me, with my previous exploit having something to do with it.

Amusingly, the best couple award went to Ren and Nora. Either because they both displayed great chemistry or maybe because Nora threatened to break the host's legs; knowing Nora, it's probably a little bit of both.

Well, it has been an overall amazing night that I almost forgot that I'll be taking my first tomorrow and I'm going to need all the rest I can get. I need to be in my best condition in the morning.

Editorial Note: To clarify the abrupt entry of the two Atlesian Guardsmen, there was a situation at the CCT while the dance was ongoing. Ruby managed to make a record of it when she sought it out. Although this excerpt has little to do with Jaune himself, it does become much more relevant in the following chapters.

The Red Rose Diaries: Dance Dance Infiltration.

The night has been… I dunno—fun, I guess? I'm not really into these types of parties. At least everyone else is having fun. Blake finally decided to go; Yang was hanging out with her pals as usual; Team JNPR was dancing happily together; heck, even Weiss got a dance with Neptune and I cannot be more happy for them. But what surprised me the most is that I saw Penny in the dance too! I really wanted to go talk to her, but there were guards that stopped anyone who tried to get near her. What a bummer, I guess we'll have to wait for another time to finally talk to each other again.

I was hanging around with myself when everyone was watching Jaune and Pyrrha dance. Those two dance really quite well together. I went outside to get some fresh air since I had nothing better to do inside, which is when I saw some ninja-girl running around, jumping from roof-to-roof and was heading to the Beacon Tower. She looked like she was up to no good and no one was trying to stop her, so I decided to go follow her and see what she's up to.

When I got to the tower, I saw guards knocked out cold on the ground. I knew that I was going to face a villain, so I brought my rocket locker here and grabbed the Crescent Rose.

I went inside and went to the communications floor since it was the only floor where people actually go. I looked around the place while I had to deal with these stupid heels. I called to see if there was anyone around, which is when she decided to show herself. She suddenly started firing crystals of glass toward me which is when I was able to deflect them just in time.

I started shooting at her but she just blocks the bullets off with her hand as if it was nothing. I went in and tried to slash her down, only for her to flip back and fired explosive arrows at me with a bow that literally came out of nowhere.

Before we could keep on fighting, General Ironwood came out after the elevator opened, then suddenly she was gone. The only thing was that he was able to see me and the cracks on the floor and he was not happy about it.

I'm in trouble again, aren't I?

And I thought the previous chapter was long. I mean 27,500+ words for a chapter centering on a dance and events leading up to it. What the frick, man. Considering that the next chapter is going to be based on four or five episodes, it may possibly surpass this chapter. Though I should admit that I have gotten carried away in writing some parts of this which is why it feels dragged at times.

I was hesitant to make Pyrrha use her semblance at a public match since Emerald said that she doesn't broadcast her power but I decided to say screw that and make use of it anyway because it was too much to pass the opportunity for her to use it against Umi's blades. It would have made a better discovery for Cinder's faction than 'oh shit, she moved a leg slightly with the Force'. I'm pretty sure the people of Remnant are already aware of Pyrrha's polarity, it's not something Pyrrha could hide especially with her fame, they just don't see her use it that much since she mostly uses it as desperation attacks and is conservative of her aura.

You may notice that I refused to change the names and personalities of Jaune sisters after their canon reveal. I've instead decided to merge Bleu with Saphron into one, so technically, Saphron still exists and she still has Terra and Adrian, except in this universe, she's now a Huntress who lives in Mantle instead of Argus with a brainy personality and a different name. The rest of the Arc family, however, will be my own take, so instead of Jaune being second or third youngest, he is the youngest. Considering that Jaune's parents acted differently and were based off of two main characters from Ciaphas Cain, it makes sense for Jaune's family to be different in this universe, not just Jaune himself.

If you are worried that the story is following canon too much, fear not, the following chapters will make the consequences of Jaune's actions to be much more obvious.

(Response for Guest Reviews)

Guest #1:

"Oh, I can think of a few ways that Yang could use her mouth to "persuade" people. ;)"

Well, Taiyang taught her a few things, like how not to rip the skin by using someone else's mouth, instead of your own hands. She'd be right happy to show Blake that. ( ͡ ͜ʖ ͡)

"Mark":

Oh hai, Mark.

Finally, someone who points out some flaws in my writing. Your feedback is noted, you can now consider yourselves lucky.