Man, what a day it's been. NeoShadows here and coming at ya with a new chapter. Finally.
As I did on AJOAT, I apologize for not updating quicker. Work related stuff got in the way of my time, but that's all settled for now. That, and I've been busy working on making my own game with RPG Maker. It's a nice way to relax and still keep me productive after writing fanfiction. All that's behind me for the moment though. I'm back to writing and got my groove back to boot.
The next Arc to the story for Act2 begins here. Setting us up for one hell of an adventure for our boy Jaune. I'm very happy with what's to come here. But this will also be a special and unique Arc this time. It's not going to be too long, possibly three chapters. Maybe. Who's placing bets? But the story doesn't end there. Well, for Jaune it will. I like to think as this Arc as a coin, two sides to the events of the week to come before the second semester begins. I'll reveal the real name at the end.
For now, let's get to those Reviews.
Ssjzohan: Yup! Two of my favorite games and manga. And I'll do my best to churn out as many chapters until September for ya!
ShadowIke: I had those two X-Overs in mind for a long time. I thought, why not just stop thinking about it and write a first chapter already? I'm already working on making chapters for them both in my spare time and plan on releasing each story once I've gotten a decent amount done and planned out. As for the original casts thoughts of strength compared to the others, don't worry about it. I know, trust me. I've already got something planned out for this Act, especially this Arc to even let them figure it out. Stay tuned.
CorEagle: . . .I see that. Clearly.
WoodXVii: Oh, how fun it is going to be. There's a special emotional fight I can't wait to write for this Volume that I'm sure you'll all love. As someone who use to read Negima fanfiction, I know how desperately it needs quality fics. Hopefully I can measure up to your expectations.
GhostAngel14: If you start playing Fire Emblem, play Awakening. That's the game that got me playing all the others. Plus it feeds my inner shipper. The Volume has officially begun and we got so much in store. Trust me, Jaune vs. Blanc will be a great event to look out for. But while they may not meet each other for some time, that doesn't mean others won't. This Arc is going to be fun. Hmm, I thought I heard of that name before. Remind me never to chaperone a group of troubled kids to a prison. Anyone capable of doing that to Hanseen is not one to mess with.
Solomon07: Fan of Negima, huh? And of course the Manga version! Which is funny since I started off with the anime first as a kid. That was then when I still didn't understand that the manga came first.
Lordrednight: Awesome indeed, my friend. It's my favorite, next to Volume 3 which is still in development, but full of oh so many moments I can't wait to share. Jaune is going to have one hell of a time in the Negima universe, I'll tell you that much. I'm doing my best to make it stand out compared to the many crossovers that share the X-over. For now though, it's still in development and will have an announced date for its release by the end of the year. Don't worry though, I already got a second chapter almost complete.
AFan1204: And who's to blame? You keep my pills, clearly you are to blame. The fans seem to enjoy it when I'm off my meds.
Soleimon Berserker: You're welcome? Honestly, I'm still not sure on my writing skills here. I can only do my best to get out a top quality fic for ya. I'm doing it for you, bud.
Yexius: Yes, squeal! It's what keeps me in business.
NugiSpringield: Damn. You haven't even read the first chapter yet! Only a snippet. Now I really got to make sure it turns out well.
ZHsteve: Finally! Someone who understands my plight! That Raid with that gold digger didn't help. So much gold. Who says all that glimmer isn't gold?
DJexe: Glad to get a smile out of ya. And you can't burn out what's already smoldering!
WyattMoore: Right, that is a meme, isn't it? You know I laugh. I didn't intend for that. Well, you'll see why eventually.
Reven228: I think you are one of the few who realized that. I feel in love with that show on episode one, and it had my heart at the last episode of the first season. I'm sure you'll love this spin I have going on.
Slenderbrine: Tell me about it. It was funny at first, but too much of a good thing is always bad for you. I didn't intend for that to be connected to a meme. There's more for what's to come with that. But no spoilers for you!
NaguraFlames: Another Beta? I don't honestly know. I'm fine with my buddy A Fan1204, but I wouldn't want him overworked when I got more stories going out. I'll think about that down the road.
CorEagle: Damn, what a review. While it was a joke, it was still entertaining to read. I liked it. Keep 'em coming.
That's all for reviews for now. We'll talk more at the end. So, get to scrolling already!
Disclaimer: I do not own the rights to RWBY. All rights are reserved for RoosterTeeth. Currently, I'm very anxious. It's June, E3 is here, and we'll finally know the release date of Kingdom Hearts 3. I've waited 13 fucking years for its sequel, had fun with its spin-offs, but enough is enough! i need it in my hands, NOW. I got the fever.
Maybe I should just get working on an X-Over with RWBY already to get me to settle down? That section needs some good stories. Nothing but highschool fics and slash littering it. Which is fine, but too much is too much for god's sake! Just for that, I'm going to hide under my covers and read me some. . .research material. Jiraiya, have I made you proud yet?
Chapter 35: Marks to a Dream.
Waking up to what could only be described as a sugar intoxicated hangover was not what Jaune wanted after a night of movies and snacks. With a gurgled moan, Jaune slowly sat up from the popcorn and candy wrapper carpeted floor. His vision was blurry, adjusting to his surroundings as he held his throbbing temple with a grimace. Several cans of Everybody Loves Grapes Soda were strewn around him, clinking as he tossed a half-eaten chocolate bar stuck to his face to the side. That was the last time he had Nora provide the snacks or play hostess.
What had happened again? His memory was fuzzy at best. He could only remember watching Final Location 4 while chugging his favorite soda along with Yang. When it had become a contest of who could drink more, he had no idea. All he knew was that his mouth now tasted like grapes. He was sure his tongue was dyed purple.
Something heavy seemed to be settled on Jaune's lap now that he was awake. Rubbing his eyes with a yawn, Jaune glanced down at the warm weight before his yawn transformed into a shriek midway through. Sweat ran down his temple at the head of snow white hair, undone and snuggled against his lap.
Weiss Schnee awoke to an odd sound. Annoyed at whoever interrupted her beauty sleep, she slowly blinked as she found herself laying on the floor. A dirty floor littered with junk food and wrappers. Her nose wrinkled in disgust before she realized that she was wrong in her earlier thought. She wasn't on the floor per say. Her head was actually resting atop something warm that acted as her pillow. Whatever it was suddenly grew stiff, confusing her greatly as something poked her cheek. This was the oddest pillow she had ever slept on. Rubbing against it only seemed to make it harder. Was it throbbing?
"And now I'm dead."
With a frown of confusion as she caught Jaune's voice, Weiss's mind finally made out her so-called pillow. A furious blush erupted on the heiresses face as realized where she was and what was poking her cheek. Both embarrassment and fury consumed her.
The two teams laying about the room of team JNPR were suddenly awakened by the shrill scream of a girl and the furious shout of an angered heiress. They were all confused to find Weiss standing up right, her face red and livid as she glared at the ceiling. Turning their eyes up, they all found the odd and worrying sight of Jaune pinned to the ceiling by several ice stakes in a cross formation. The blond leader of JNPR whimpered, tears trailing down his face as he awaited his execution.
Yang was the first to respond to the scene after shaking off the popcorn from her lovely hair.
"I have no idea what I'm seeing, but I know I don't want it to end." Yang snickered.
Weiss paid them no mind. Her shoulders slumped as her rapier's point touched the floor, her form resembling a haunting spirit with a shadowed expression. Jaune could have sworn he saw red glaring back at him. His Snow Angle was gone. The devil was in.
"Y-You perverted buffoon." Weiss whispered hauntingly. Her rapier was shrouded in flames with a click of its Dust chamber. Jaune stared in fear of the inferno consuming the lovely thin blade now aimed to set him ablaze. Any attempts to calm her down from his lips would only go ignored in her present state, "It seems I've been too friendly with you as of late. Don't worry, I'll rectify that mistake shortly."
But the execution of one blond noodle was set back as Pyrrha hastily jumped in.
"Weiss! I'm sure it was all a misunderstanding! Whatever Jaune did, I'm sure he didn't mean it!" Pyrrha said hurriedly in panic.
Weiss only narrowed her eyes further, "Oh, I'm sure he meant it. He wouldn't have had that kind of reaction if he didn't." she spoke dryly.
Jaune laughed nervously to that. She wasn't exactly wrong.
"In my defense, I have no memory of last night or how we woke up in that questionable position. It's almost like someone spiked my grape soda." Jaune groaned and rubbed his aching temple. Seriously, he could swear he tasted alcohol on his tongue too.
Yang whistled discretely while stepping away from the scene. The flask in hand was stuffed back in her secret compartment, which was her cleavage. Hey, it was a party! And a party wasn't a party without some alcohol and a drunk blond. Too bad all it did was give Jaune a headache along with some memory loss of the night. Next time she was bringing the hard stuff.
While Weiss wanted nothing more than to make Jaune pay for the humiliating wake up, she knew that she couldn't execute him. Not in front of witnesses. With a sigh on her lips, she fired a few harmless fireballs at the ice stakes pinning Jaune to the ceiling and watched as he fell to the floor with a yelp. She rolled her eyes at the blond knight's dramatic fall.
"Consider yourself lucky, Jaune. If you were anyone else, I would have skewered you and made it look like an accident. But the next time your... blade comes within distance of my face again, I'll be sure to break it and melt it down." Weiss growled with a light dust of pink on her face.
Ruby blinked, not understanding what Weiss was referring to, "What blade? And why would it be anywhere near your face?" Crocea Mors wasn't even out in the open.
Jaune simply nodded feverishly under the Snow Angel's glare. He got the message. No need to say anything more. But now that the little commotion was over with, he went back to gazing around his room. He couldn't help but frown distastefully at all the trash and junk food laying around. It was just like the slumber parties he would have with his sisters back home. At least he didn't have his mother around to nag him about cleaning the place.
Still they would have to clean up the place. That was the price to be paid for a night of fun.
"Well, since we're all up now, we can begin cleaning. We can't just leave the room a mess like this. Especially if we're to get rid of the soda stains on the carpet. Wait too long and they'll become a pain to get rid of." A wave of groans erupted at Jaune's suggestion from all but Weiss and Ren. Even Blake was too tired to help clean as she laid back against his bed with several cans of tuna laid around her.
"But I'm hungry!" Nora proclaimed with her head poking out of the large pile of candy wrappers she slept under. The hammer Valkyrie aimed a pout to her beloved leader, "Can't that wait until we've had breakfast? I really don't feel like cleaning up first thing in the morning. Plus, we're on break! Do we really have to take any responsibility for all the messes we make?"
"Yes, yes we do." Jaune chided as he took the posture of a lecturing parent, "We still have to keep proper care of our room even if we're not in classes. I'm pretty sure Ms. Goodwitch is still making rounds around campus to inspect the dorms. If she finds the place like this, she'll punish us, break or no break." he shuddered to think of what the strict Huntress would do to him. That riding crop of hers would always send a shiver down his spine.
"I agree with Jaune. Better to get it over with than to put it off for later." Weiss was in agreement before her eyes went wide in disbelief. Since when did she ever agree with Jaune of all people?
While everyone wasn't as on board with the idea as Jaune and Weiss were, Pyrrha was all for it. She moved around the room to pick up the discarded cans of soda alongside the knight and heiress.
"We can grab breakfast once we're done cleaning up. I'm sure if we all work together, we can finish in no less than an hour!" Pyrrha remarked brightly, getting stubborn nods from all those within.
Now that everyone went about to clean up the mess of last night's slumber party, it didn't take too long for the room to resemble its old state. But while in the midst of tying the several trash bags, Jaune's scroll rumbled, alerting him to a message.
'Ozpin: Good morning, Mr. Arc. I trust you've slept well. While this may seem a tad early for one your age, I would like for us to meet once you've received this message. It pertains to the subject matter I alluded to when we're discussing your official status as a Huntsman in training. I hope this doesn't inconvenience you and await your arrival. Have a good day, Mr. Arc.'
Jaune rose a brow at the message from the Headmaster. Subject matter? It took him a few seconds to realize what the gray-haired man was talking about as he recalled when he received his huntsman in training transcripts. Opening up his Game Menus, he scrolled through the various missions he had on hold. The missions were simple requests by the people around him that simply had him roaming around the city of Vale or forests for certain items. Nothing too important but they did yield Lien. But one mission stood out from the rest, highlighted in red as urgent.
Amber Dreams:
Headmaster Ozpin wishes to speak with The Player about a special task. This is a top-secret meeting that no one must know about. Further explanation on the mission will be revealed upon acceptance.
Reward: Unlock Headmaster Ozpin's Friendship! Unlock the Event, Inner Circle, 180,000EXP.
Failure Penalty: Mission line lost.
The mission had popped up when Ozpin had been speaking to Jaune about wanting to speak to him at some point during the week about an important matter. What it was, Jaune had no idea. Ozpin was being as secretive as always. It was a mission he couldn't refuse, locking on as urgent and activated. Whatever it was seemed to be very important. At least if he completed the mission he would unlock Ozpin's Friendship. That would certainly grant him some boons. And if he failed it didn't seem it would be a big deal. The penalty would only result in the mission line no longer being available.
'I might as well go see what the Headmaster wants. I can always catch up with the rest back at the cafeteria when I'm done with whatever he wants to talk about.' Firmly tying the last knot on the trash bags, Jaune hefted them over his shoulders while making his way to the door.
"That's the last of the trash. I'm going to go ahead and toss them out. You all can head over to the cafeteria for some grub if you want. I can meet you guys later when I'm done." Jaune spoke over his shoulder casually. If it was a secret meeting then there was no need to let them know where he was really going.
Receiving nods as the two teams finished fixing the room, Jaune began to make his way to the Headmaster office.
After making a quick stop to dispose of the trash, Jaune now stood in front of the base of Beacon's Tower. He could already see many of the students and civilians of Vale coming and going from the CCT. With the academy giving the students a break from their lessons, many of them were out to talk to relatives about any plans for visiting. The thought of relatives and family caused guilt to form in Jaune's chest. Just a month ago he had come to do the same as many of them did. And it had been a month since he had come back.
The news of his father's condition had shaken him to his core. Not to mention the guilt that stayed with him for leaving his family behind to watch over their bed ridden father. Since then, he had been ignoring all calls from home. It was a despicable thing to do, he knew that. His mother was suffering with her husband fallen under a deep sleep and her only son was refusing to talk to her. All she wanted to do was make sure he was doing okay and apologize for dropping such a heavy bomb onto him. Then there was his memory loss that she had learned of. There was so much she wanted to speak to him about.
But Jaune couldn't do it. He couldn't stand by listening to his mother, the sorrow, despair, worry, and pain in her voice was too much to bear. Especially when he had no way to comfort her from Beacon. He could only listen and offer words that would do nothing to ease her pain. He was conflicted, at odds with himself with wanting to be there for his mother and family, and with not wanting to go through the pain of the reality of his father.
He was a terrible son, there was no denying that.
Right now, though, Jaune wasn't here to deal with that pain. He wasn't sure when he would be ready to deal with it. He needed to put it on hold however, speaking with Ozpin was what he needed to focus on right now. He would just continue moving forward as he always did.
Stepping inside the tower, Jaune made his way over to the elevator to head up to the highest level. But as he moved to enter the elevator, he was stopped by two voices behind him.
"LemonHead? What you doing around here?"
"Mr. Arc? Ah, just the man I needed to see."
Turning back, Jaune found both Professor Pithos and Professor Kusanagi walking towards him. The two veteran Huntsman waved at him with small smiles.
"Professor Pithos, Kusanagi? What are you guys doing here?" Jaune asked politely.
Popping a bubble of lemon flavored gum, the always lax Professor Pithos spoke first, "Had to stop by to speak with the Headmaster concerning something important. While you kids have the next few weeks off, we teachers are still at work. Lucky little brats." Pithos grumbled sourly.
"I had a call to make to some family back home in Vacuo when I ran into Hope. We were actually planning on heading out for a couple of drinks before meeting with Ms. Goodwitch and the rest of the staff. With the arrivals of those students from the other academies coming in the next month, we have to go over changes to the lesson plans to fit all hunter's in training." Kusanagi explained before reaching into his kimono. With a slight smirk he then handed Jaune a pocket-sized notebook, "It's actually a good thing I caught you, Mr. Arc. I hadn't finished explaining the full potential of Ignis Mors with you yet. I'd actually sit down with you to go over it in full detail, but I have plans. So, I'll just hand you its Maintenance Manual."
Ignis Mors Manual, Received!
With the notebook in hand, Jaune began to flip through the book. It wasn't a surprise to him that a Game Hub took over to easily reveal the important information on his newest weapon. As he looked it over, Professor Kusanagi furthered explained its details.
"Ignis Mors is more than just a shield as you've already noticed. Along with needing Fire Dust to keep it running and to perform its more explosive attacks, it actually comes with a second form. Unfortunately, I'm missing a certain part for its transformation. Don't worry though, it should arrive next month at best. I should also note if you overload the shield with Fire Dust while Crocea Mors is sheathed, you can augment the blade with fire too."
An Ability has been Unlocked to Ignis Mors Ability Tree! Ignis Blade, Unlocked!
'Looks like I can add Fire to my sword attacks now. That's good to know if I have to deal with any enemies weak to it. Too bad about Ignis's transformation though.' That was actually what he had been hoping to use in his fights yesterday. But it wouldn't activate. For now, he would have to wait and just stick to its explosive jab for heavy damage. With a mental note to head to Vale sometime to stock up on Fire Dust Powder, Jaune pocketed the handy manual.
Professor Pithos suddenly snapped his fingers with an expression of realization. Right, he almost forgot to hand the blond something important as well. Parting his open lab coat to reach into the inner pockets he moved to hand Jaune something as well.
"Actually, I got something for ya too, Lemon Head. After returning to my office, I was able to etch the Sigil for Ignis. Might as well give it to ya."
Jaune stared at the next journal in awe. The journal in hand was dark blue with odd symbols printed around the Dust crystal stamped on it. Just touching it gave off an overwhelming sense of magic. Opening the pages revealed that most of them were blank. Except for one page displaying a candle wick flame made of red lines.
Fire Sigil, Unlocked! Access to low leveled Fire Spells now granted in fights freely! Ember and Firebolt now usable! By equipping a Sigil, the cost of the elemental spell attributed to the Sigil is cut in half and adds 10% increase in damage!
"Right now, I'll start you off with a low leveled Sigil. I'll upgrade them for you when you show me that you're ready and have more knowledge of Dust, so be sure to pay attention in class." Professor Pithos smirked before going into detail, "To apply the sigil, I've noted down the process of creating it and any warnings of long time use. Just as fusing or injecting Dust is dangerous to the body, so are Sigils. Don't spam them or focus too much power to them, or you'll end up harming yourself in various ways."
Jaune winced at the harmful effects he was reading. Apparently overuse of a Sigil will inflict a negative status effect. In this case SVRE Burn and Attack Down. He was going to have to be careful with that.
Glad to have given Jaune the manual for Ignis Mors, Professor Kusanagi patted Jaune's shoulder before moving back to head on his way.
"Just remember to take proper care of your new partner. Unlike Crocea Mors which seems to keep its sharpness without much care, Ignis Mors does need regular maintenance. If you need any help on it, don't be afraid to stop by the forge, or ask Ms. Rose. And remember to ask her for help on teaching you how to use a firearm. Don't want you shooting your own foot." he chuckled as he left for the door.
Professor Pithos snickered at the more than possible thought. With the kid's luck, he'd be stuck in Nurse Spriggan's office. Another reason for the bubblegum haired woman to drink. Ready to follow along with his co-worker, the sweet loving Dust professor stopped. His eyes slightly narrowed when he glanced at Jaune.
"You'll be meeting with the Headmaster to talk about something important, right?" he asked knowingly. The look of surprise was amusing on the blond knight before Pithos features became stern. "Listen, I'm not too keen on what he hopes to share with you. It's a touchy subject that normal huntsman have no need of butting their head into, let alone a student of ours. I just want to tell you that you don't have to go up there. You're more than free to go back to your friends and continue on with your normal school life."
Jaune frowned at the professors warning, his frown only deepening as a message popped up on his HUD.
Abandon Amber Dreams? WARNING: Abandoning the mission will not yield any rewards and prevent progress on the mission.
Abandon? Yes/No?
Was the mission that important? The option to abandon the mission was a first for Jaune. Not to mention the expression on Professor Pithos normally lax face said it all. Whatever awaited Jaune once he spoke to Headmaster Ozpin was not to be taken lightly. From the sounds of it, it would change his life. Jaune had to stop himself from chuckling at the thought. As if his life wasn't out of the ordinary or dangerous enough as it was.
'I really don't have any reason to not take the mission. Besides, Ozpin's done more for me than I could ever repay him. Not to mention if it's so important, I have to take it. I'll take whatever experience I can get from this.' Jaune was still a greenhorn compared to the other Players. What he lacked even now that he was an official Huntsman in training was experience. And he would need to continue growing if he was to hope of having any real chance of fighting people like Adam and Roman.
As much as Jaune appreciated the sweet loving professor's concern, he had no need for it. He wasn't the same boy who found himself turned into an ice sculpture in his class. With a mental command, he rejected the option of backing out. It was too early to just quit.
"Thanks Professor, but I think I'll be fine." Jaune reassured Professor Pithos, "I can't say I understand what awaits me up there or what the Headmaster wants to tell me, but I know I can't just back out. Besides, I owe him for everything he's done for me." Jaune added softly, his eye turning up to the ceiling, past the obsidian tiles to the very top of the tower where a certain aloof coffee lover awaited.
"A guy with no talent or real hope of becoming a huntsman could never be so lucky to have entered a place like this after all."
Jaune wasn't talking about the person he was now, the one gifted with the power to break the limits of human potential. No, he was talking to the blond boy who had cheated his way into Beacon long ago. Who thought he could grow stronger with a chance. The one Ozpin had turned his eyes away to and allowed to step into his grounds on the notion that he could become strong if given the chance. Anyone else would have caught onto the fake transcripts and barred him from entering the school. Someone with no combat training whatsoever would surely fail and die at initiation alone. He was unqualified.
But Ozpin saw something in Jaune in his first life. Before he had died trying to become a hero. Before he was gifted with power to become more than just a huntsman. The headmaster gave that naive blond the chance he was always denied. And because of that chance, Jaune now walked a road he thought he would never had been lucky enough to have even seen.
If Ozpin needed a favor, whatever it may be, Jaune wouldn't hesitate to do whatever in his power he could do to grant it.
Professor Pithos chewed on the inside of his lip. He was contemplating something. He really wanted to steer Jaune off this path. What laid ahead was truly something no normal huntsman, let alone a huntsman in training, should dabble in. There was a world lost to all those beyond their inner circle. One better left as fables from the dark force that thrived within those who knew of the knowledge. And Pithos himself often times wondered whether he would have cared to remain ignorant of what Ozpin knew.
Jaune though had proven that he wasn't a normal huntsman. He was more than met the eye. Now he could see what Ozpin had seen when he let the boy with no transcripts enter his school. There was potential. And that potential would be wasted if let to its own devices.
Not to mention that the determination in those blue eyes meeting his own was hard to talk out of. Internally sighing at what would normally be a sound and logical reasoning, Pithos instead reached into the deep pockets of his lab coat for another gumdrop. He popped in the cherry flavored treat, savoring the sweet taste before speaking again.
"Don't say I didn't warn you. I have my doubts about you being of any help with our resident sleeping beauty tucked away, but you did help Mr. Lyre out in his negative state. I guess I just have to wait and see." Professor Pithos said with a slight smirk on his lips.
Resident sleeping beauty?
Before Jaune could ask more of the odd cryptic meaning, Professor Pithos had already walked past him with a pat on his shoulder.
"Well I got to meet that old weathered blacksmith for a few rounds of drinks. I'm going to need to be a little buzzed if I'm going to be stuck in a room with Ms. Goodwitch about some boring old meeting for the Vytal Festival. Just remember to keep an open mind when the time is right. I know for certain that coffee junkie won't spill the beans until you've really proven your worth again."
In truth, Pithos was a little too early to be worrying about the matter. Not even Ozpin would be so careless as to throw the kid down the rabbit hole so soon. At least whatever worries he had were put to rest. Jaune was a creative kid, he was sure the knight would be able to at least bring something new and unheard of in a dead end.
Left by the elevator with more questions then he walked in with, Jaune found his eyes drifting back to the twin elevator doors with a puzzle frown. A random question arose suddenly at the ding of the doors parting to welcome him to his way up top.
This was an academy for training huntsman, right? Why did he just now feel like there was more to that?
Above the tower of Beacon, with its glimmering green lights, connecting the region with the other three kingdoms, within the office of one of the youngest huntsman to become Headmaster of Beacon, an air of foreboding filled the room. Standing to the side of the ever calm gray haired headmaster was Glynda. Her position as his right-hand lady of sorts was the same as ever. Her face calm yet stern, ready to lend her word to whatever matter was at hand.
This time though was different. For once, a light sheen of sweat could be seen on her face. Her features appeared to be slightly shaken as if she had been giving some grave news.
And Ozpin? For once, his face was no longer aloof nor neutral. He was not calm nor relaxed. For once, he was... well, for the lack of a better word, pissed. His age was truly beginning to show as he conversed with a certain Atlas Headmaster through holoscreen. General Ironwoods own features were stern yet sullen as he spoke once more.
"You could finally rest." he said softly with genuine care in his voice.
Ozpin stared deeply into General Ironwood's eyes. When he spoke again, his voice was heavy with age and regrets that dwarfed the planets own.
"But at what cost?"
General Ironwood knew it wouldn't be so easy to convince his old friend of seeing things his way. They'd been talking for hours about a very important and highly sensitive subjects since last night. He should have known bringing his skeleton out of the closet so early was a bad idea. Perhaps the others were right, he was too arrogant and gung-ho. But that was alright, he was more than ready to do whatever it took for them all to finally understand that everything he was doing was just.
DING!
Sadly, for General Ironwood now was not the time. It seemed the Headmaster of Beacon already had an appointment set up. The headmaster of Atlas had to wonder if Ozpin may have had this set up beforehand. It was what it was though. Their call would have to end and be put on hold until the next time their inner circle had gathered together during the Vytal Tournament. Not to mention he was still prepping for his departure from Atlas to Vale. Who knows how long he would be gone this time, better to make sure everything dealing with his projects and soldiers were taken care of.
"It appears that question will have to wait. I know you have your duties to attend to. Even if Glynda is the one who manages most of Beacon's paper work." General Ironwood said amusingly as Glynda couldn't help but nod with a tired sigh. He looked to Ozpin one more time before the call ended, his face set in a stubborn frown.
"I just want you to know that everything I do is in support of our cause. I know you don't see that, but I hope one day you're able to see through my eyes and know what must be done. The world may be at peace, but we are all still at war."
Ozpin's shoulders sagged momentarily as the video chat went offline. Of his Lieutenants, Ironwood was the most stubborn and hard to control. The man's heart was in the right place, but he wondered at times whether that heart was truly human or machine. He'd have to ask Nurse Spriggan, the woman knew more about the General than anyone else in this world.
For now, though, Ozpin would have to put such matters on the back burner. The elevator door dinged, signaling the arrival of a rather special student. Ozpin couldn't help but smile a little as he waved Glynda off to leave him alone.
If all went well, there would be no need for such of weapons.
Stepping out of the elevator doors, Jaune grew confused at the strange air lingering in the room. Did it suddenly feel stuffy in here? It was almost as if he had just walked in to talks of a doomsday event or something. Hopefully he didn't trigger any kind of Event just by coming over.
Ozpin smiled at Jaune, gesturing for the blond to sit down on the seat in front of his desk. Ironwood's proposals could wait for the time being, someone else deserved his full attention at the moment. Funny, it had only been a few months since he had last spoken to a blond boy who was unsure of what he could do as a leader, let alone being a huntsman. That boy was no longer here, that wet behind the ears warrior was no longer present. Sitting before him was Jaune Arc, a boy who had fought alone against an old associate of General Ironwood and came out on top as the sole victor. Someone who had even fought against a well-known, skilled, and powerful worldwide criminal, Roman Torchwick. It was hard to believe the present knight and the one he had allowed in without any training or combat experience were the same.
It brought a wry smile to his lips.
Sad to say that the boy's once old gray blade was now stained by unseen red. Experience didn't always come in the kindest of fashions.
"Good morning, Mr. Arc. I take it you had yourself a fun night?" Ozpin spoke knowingly, eyeing the messy blond hair with a few crumbs and bits of snacks still tangled in his blond hair.
Jaune smiled sheepishly, shaking off the junk in his hair, "Well, break did start yesterday. The teams thought it would be fun if we all hanged out. Guess we did go a little crazy."
Ozpin shook his head with a bemused smile, "No, I'd say that it was the tamest your team has been in the last few months. I would have thought that I would have to call in Ms. Goodwitch to work her usual magic to clean up after Ms. Valkyrie's usual shenanigans. It's a wonder and a miracle that you can tame such a rambunctious warrior."
"She's not that bad... most of the time. Honestly, I'm surprised that she listens to me. I would have thought that Ren would be the only one capable of reigning her in." Jaune said honestly with a shrug. He had asked Nora once why she listened to him. The orange haired sloth lover had simply responded with a 'Why not?'. Jaune was pretty sure she didn't even know why. No reason to question it though, he was just happy she followed his orders.
Remembering why he was here in the first place, Jaune sat up straight and looked to the headmaster curiously with an underlining anxiety. "So, what did you need to speak to me about, Headmaster? You said you wanted to speak about something important after I passed my Initiation exam yesterday. What's it about?"
Ozpin shut his eyes momentarily. Safe to say, he did have his doubts about what he wished to indulge the blond knight in. The world Jaune lived in was a beautiful ignorance, one that he wished the whole world would continue to lull in. But such bliss wasn't long to remain, not if the recent rumblings from a certain dark witch were to say so. He needed as many pieces on the board as possible to combat her own pawns. He just hated the idea of using his students to fight his long-waged battles. And he didn't need another Hazel appearing if something were to happen to Jaune. The people around the boy were rather attached to him.
The memories of the negativity engulfing Helios returned to Ozpin. An abnormality arose. Three minutes he found unaccounted for. In that time, the Negativity replacing Helios's aura had been reduced to but a small speck, barely noticeable to anyone not gifted in such sights. Because of Jaune, one of Ozpin's students had been saved from themselves. He had no idea exactly how Jaune had did it, but he knew it was thanks to Jaune that it had been possible to free Helios from his darkness. Just as he had done with Ren.
Ozpin made a firm decision in that moment. He was too old to be second guessing himself. If there was a way to save a certain someone in his care who would become a great asset in the chess game between him and Salem, he would take it. Though he knew better to jump into things so eagerly. He would need to make sure his newest piece had the strength to handle what was to one day come.
"Mr. Arc, in the past four months since you've arrived to Beacon, you've displayed an incredible rate of growth that continues to surprise me. And that's saying something for one as old as me." Ozpin said with a light chuckle, "I'm proud to see the son of Alexander Arc become such a warrior. You truly hold promise as a great huntsman one day if you continue to follow Beacon's curriculum."
Jaune frowned. He sensed a-
"But,"
Yup, their it was.
Ozpin's face grew stern, his tone serious as he leaned on his tented fingers, "I feel as if you could become more than your average huntsman in time. Not to mention your gift to restore the aura of Huntsman on the brink of despair." he said knowingly, causing Jaune's eyes to widen.
"My gift to restore aura?" Jaune said softly in confusion. He found his eyes on his hand, squinting as said aura of his momentarily pulsed. He knew he could restore the Core of a person to save them from Falling. But restore Aura?
Ozpin nodded, his brows knitted together, "I know of the conditions of Mr. Lie and Mr. Lyre's tainted auras. When one's aura is corrupted by Negativity, their reserves dwindle until they are left with only Negativity. Not many in the world know this, but Negativity is its own form of energy, just like Aura. You could say that the two are brother's, like two sides of a coin. It is normally impossible to restore the aura of a Falling individual, though there are recent advancements in Atlas that can help treat the symptoms. Yet your involvement with both Mr. Lie and Mr. Lyre had resulted in their auras restoring themselves to combat their negativity. I'd say that such an ability was due to your Semblance, but for as long as I've been alive, I've never known others to wield two semblances. Not unless you count Gifts."
"Gifts?" Jaune frowned at new term, his mind thinking back to Helios's ability to summon a titan made of flames of aura.
Ozpin waved his hand of the matter, "You could call them a second form of abilities not tied to the manifestation of one's soul. You'll learn more about such things on your second year with Ms. Goodwitch. Back to the matter of hand though. Whether what you did was the power of your Gift, or something more." For a second, Ozpin's eyes sharpened in his gaze of Jaune, causing the blond to fidget slightly in his seat before the headmaster shrugged, "I believe that whatever you did could help in a certain situation. But before I can ask you for your help, I'd at least like to know how you were able to restore your friend's auras and if such actions come at any cost."
Jaune crossed his arms with a conflicted frown at what he was being asked. Revealing information on his abilities as a Gamer would be problematic. There were rules set in place to prevent them from letting others know of the game world. Telling Ozpin that he could jump into the Cores of ones' soul and fight bosses was a no-no. He did want to help Ozpin though after all the old headmaster had done for him. He would have to think of how to answer in a way that would work in the settings of the world.
Jaune smiled inwardly with a mental snap of his fingers, quickly coming up with a way to explain himself.
"I guess you could call it a Gift. I never knew how to explain it, seeing as it had nothing to do with my Summoning semblance, but it sounds right. I found that I can basically intertwine my aura with someone else to spark their aura. It's not something I can do easily though, it takes a lot of concentration to perform. It was hard enough to do in my fight against Helios." Jaune explained sheepishly. It sounded reasonable enough to him, learning of second abilities was also rather convenient.
Ozpin hummed, his brain wracking the new information. Aura intertwining? It wasn't the oddest thing he heard of concerning Gifts. He knew of a few who possessed odd Gifts such as one of his own Lieutenants. Thought that little Gift was born thanks to Ozpin himself. Though all Gifts did come at their own costs.
"Does your ability come at any risks?"
Jaune mulled it over before answering, "I suppose it does have its own risks to it. My own aura could be infected by the person's Negativity if I'm not careful or strong enough to endure their souls. You could say that the strength of the individual affects how much resistance I have to deal with in reigniting their aura." Jaune tried to explain with a complex frown.
"So, your own strength must be greater or equal as the individual in question." Ozpin stated with a growing scowl. That would be a problem. Even with half the person's aura in mind, someone like Jaune would be in danger. Strong Jaune may have been, but he still had a long way to go.
But if Jaune could come close to that person's strength, then maybe, just maybe, there was hope. There was time before the Vytal Festival after all. Ozpin's mind went into planning for the stages of his newest player on the chess board.
"Mr. Arc, you have an extraordinary gift, one I believe may even help in rescuing a dear colleague of mine. One that has been robbed of her own aura and left to slumber in the recesses of her own mind. Sadly, such a thing is bound to damage her own soul with negativity. And I believe that only you can save her." Ozpin spoke seriously to the young boy, his words weighing on Jaune as his brows furrowed in confusion.
"You want my help in restoring the aura of someone you know? Is that all?" Jaune said slowly before a smile rose up. He chuckled lightly at the tense atmosphere filling the room, "You know you didn't have to bring me into your office for a favor like that. I'd be happy to help if it means saving someone. I almost thought you would be asking me of something dangerous or secretive."
Ozpin deeply frowned, "I'm afraid the situation is a lot more serious than it sounds, Mr. Arc." he sighed, knowing he had to be careful of what he was about to say. "The person in question is an individual of rather... unique talents and strength. Safe to say she is no ordinary person, even in huntsman standards. And even worse, the people responsible for her conditions are not the ordinary criminals you would find on the streets. I know even now they are still in search of her and are willing to do whatever it takes to retrieve the remaining portion of her aura for themselves."
Retrieve? Jaune scowled at what he was hearing. He had thought by robbed of the person's in questions aura, Ozpin had meant their aura had been severely damaged or something. Not literally. How could it be possible to rob someone of their aura? Jaune knew he was no expert on aura, but he was pretty sure it wasn't possible to steal a person's soul like it was some object. Could anyone even live without their aura?
Then there were said criminals that were responsible for the condition of Ozpin's friend. Automatically Jaune could guess who could be involved, 'No doubt Adam or Roman are connected to this in some way. I just have a gut feeling about this, and said gut still remembers that blow from Roman that nearly pierced right through me.' Jaune subtly scowled in frustration. Another connection to The Game that Jaune would have to fix.
Well, it wasn't like Jaune could just turn down Ozpin when he asked for help. Even if said help would lead to greater troubles. That was his life now anyways.
"Headmaster, you've done so much for me since I first stepped foot on your campus. It's because of you that I'm even a student or have any hope to becoming a huntsman like everyone else. I owe you more than I could ever hope to repay you." Jaune said softly to the quiet gray-haired headmaster. He looked down to his hand, still amazed that he come this far. Both in this life, and the last before his death. All because of the man in front of him, ever mysterious, but so assuring and full of his own hope. "I'm not sure what kinds of troubles will await me with helping you, but I know it's a good start in paying you back for everything that you've done for me. Besides, it's a huntsman's duty to save others in need. I may not know who needs saving, or who might get in my way, but I'll do whatever is in my power to save them! I'm an Arc! We're kinda known for playing hero, even if others have forgotten!" Jaune grinned determinedly. Ozpin couldn't help but smile softly at the more than eager huntsman in the making. There was little doubt in his mind that Jaune would agree to lend his special gift to save another. Not to mention the young boy felt indebted to him for allowing him to attend his school. It actually made Ozpin feel some bitterness.
All according to plan. Sometimes having an over calculative mind had its negatives. But the sincere emotions were at least not false. He truly did feel grateful. But it was too early in the game to be making any more plans. Not when Jaune was still growing as a warrior. The boy needed to hone his skills and mind for what would await him.
"It does me well to hear that, Mr. Arc. But I am afraid it's not that simple as we would hope."
Jaune frowned, confused as the headmaster reached into his desk.
"It's not? Honestly, the Dive wouldn't take long to perform. I can restore your friend's aura in less than a minute!" Jaune said eagerly, before flinching at the slip of the tongue.
Ozpin quirked a brow as he began to sort through several documents in hand, "Dive? Is that what you would call your Gift?"
Jaune quickly nodded. He had to be careful not to divulge too much about his ability to Dive into Cores, "Well, when my aura intertwines with another, it sorta feels like I'm diving in. It's weird, but it's what I like to call it. I thought to give my Gift a name since my Semblance has one." he explained before eyeing the sheets of papers in Ozpin's hand, "So, why isn't it so simple to use my Dive?"
"Well Mr. Arc, you said so yourself. The strength of the individual's aura affects how much resistance you will deal with. Not to mention the high risks of yourself being infected by Negativity. And while you yourself are indeed strong, one of the strongest first years, I'm afraid that you would immediately succumb to your aura falling to the negative emotions tied to the individual's aura." Ozpin said, "I can't in good sound of mind ever allow any of my students to risk their lives for my own needs. You are simply too... how would I put it?" Ozpin mulled over before snapping his fingers with a grin, "Under-leveled, that's it. At the level you are now, you would not stand any chance of doing any good for my comrade. But that can change with time."
A document was slid over to Jaune that he quickly read. It took him a moment to realize what he was reading as his eyes widened.
'Registration for The Vytal Tournament.'
"You want me to enter the Vytal Tournament?" Jaune asked slowly. Granted he was already planning on entering like he had hoped on his first life, but he never got to the paper work or qualifications since he kicked the bucket. It was kinda surreal to be holding the documents, especially this early in the year. Registration didn't begin until the end of the second semester.
"That is the goal of every team in Beacon. To test their skills and teamwork against other huntsman on or above their level. It's also to build relations with huntsman of other regions that you may work with one day. More importantly though, only the best of the best will qualify to enter the tournament. And that's what I hope for you, Mr. Arc." Reaching for his mug, Ozpin moved up from his chair and turned to stare out window of his office. The sight of students moving about, enjoying their free time with one another, and the beautiful sight of the peaceful skies above their heads always helped to set him at ease and remind him what he was fighting for, "You are strong, Jaune. You seem to have an unnatural growth rate as well. But you must go beyond your strength, break your limits, and become not a powerful huntsman in training, but a Huntsman."
"A… Huntsman?" Like the real deal? Not just a trainee? Jaune was dumbfounded by what he was hearing. He knew he could grow stronger faster than the rest with his powers, but to grow to such leaps and bounds that quickly?
"Yes, a Huntsman. Jaune, by the start of the Vytal Festival, I want you to be as strong as a graduate of my academy. I want you to be ready to face the world and all that awaits you once you leave my school. Only then will you be ready for the task at hand. Of that I'm sure of."
"And to be as strong as a real Huntsman, I have to participate in the Vytal Tournament?" Jaune asked, still unsure of what the headmaster was asking of him.
Ozpin nodded, still staring out to the campus outside his school, "Yes, for I will not be the one to prove that you are a Huntsman true and true. No, it will be the world that tells me that the boy I had allowed into my school, with little to no training, who fumbled his way onto my grounds, who believed that faking his way was his only choice, who doubted himself at almost every turn, became a Huntsman. On that grand stage with the eyes of all four kingdoms watching, you will prove your strength and readiness for much more than being a Huntsman."
Jaune felt a sense of foreboding at the end of the headmaster's words. Much more than being a Huntsman? What more could there be?
Noticing Jaune grow silent, Ozpin turned around to see the blond knight thinking to himself. He could understand, he was asking a lot of a child. No doubt Jaune was taken back. But he needed to start making plays before it was too late.
"Jaune, I will only ask you this once, and only once. This is the only chance you'll have of backing out." Breaking Jaune out of his thoughts, Ozpin walked over to the blond knight to stand in front of him. He reached out his hand to Jaune, his normally aloof hazel eyes soft and somber as he spoke sincerely.
"Will you lend me your strength and follow my every word? Will you help me in saving a friend from one of my own mistakes? For the path before you is not one to be taken lightly. I must know that you will be willing to give your all on this. So, please, will you help me?"
Foreboding. Everything leaving Headmaster Ozpin's mouth was foreboding. Already, Jaune could see a notification pop up on his scroll as the world froze.
Amber Dreams, Suspended. A new Mission has been discovered!
Huntsman Dreams:
Headmaster Ozpin has a request to save one of his comrades from Falling! But in order to initiate a complete and successful Dive to complete Amber Dreams, you must prove your strength and then some. Prove to the world that you are a Huntsman with acts of great heroism and skill. Complete all the Marks of a Huntsman and gain the Title of Huntsman to begin the mission Amber Dreams.
*Mark of The Hero!
Through great odds and the dawn of a new Darkness, shine as a Hero to the brimming flames of youth.
*Mark of The Leader!
At the sirens of despair and howls of bloodlust, lead the charge against an overwhelming horde of negativity.
*Mark of The Warrior!
When all is lost, break those limits that hold your ideals back and erupt with newfound power against unbearable odds.
*Mark of The Light!
Seeing the darkness flowing from the young maiden, initiate the beginning of your mission and spark the first dream.
*Mark of The Promise!
Stop the man who calls to the DoL and ushers despair to prove your resilience against the worlds horrors.
*Mark of The Supremacy!
Compete in the Vytal Festival and defeat all those in your way to prove your worth to the world.
Rewards: 100,000Lien, All Boost EX, Stop Spell, Sigil Slot, and Chrono Figment.
Failure: None.
!NOTICE!
Huntsman Dreams is a unique mission! There are three ways to successfully complete the mission to begin Amber Dreams. Each option will affect the Third Act.
1. The Warrior that Burns Brightly:
Gain the Marks of The Hero, The Leader, The Warrior, The Light, and The Promise before the end of Act2. Bonus Reward: Brilliance Ability.
2. The Radiant Blade:
Gain the Mark of Light and defeat the Grimm Origin. Bonus Reward: All Sigils.
3. The Huntsman above Vytal:
Complete either all the Marks of a Huntsman or gain only the Mark of The Supremacy. Bonus Reward: 1,000,000 Lien.
Accept? Yes/No.
No penalties? Jaune found that very hard to believe. All of these rewards being offered for one mission that led up to a bigger mission? There was no way. One of the rewards was a million Lien for crying out loud! And what was that about each option affecting the Third Act? It didn't occur to him that he was even playing in Acts until he noticed a notification popping up earlier this morning on his way to the tower. He was going to have to ask Ren about it later.
The mission was optional, so there was no reason to accept it and no consequences for even failing it. Nothing to gain but Exp and loot. But the headmaster had done him more good than Jaune could ever repay. He didn't need to think twice about pressing Yes. His scroll dinged, bringing a smile to Jaune's face as the world began to resume. He stood up, reached his hand to Ozpin's and clasped it.
'It's because of you that I'm here. That my dream can become a reality. Whatever it takes, I'll do whatever I can to pay you back everything in full and then some! That's my word as an Arc!'
Huntsman Dreams, Accepted!
"As if I could ever turn down my headmaster!" Jaune said brightly, giving Ozpin's hand a good squeeze. He was a little worried about the new challenges that would arise for accepting the mission, no doubt The Will was salivating at its chance to once again see him squirm in its games, but he wasn't going to think too much about that anymore. He just had to keep moving forward to reach his happy ending. "I promise to make you proud, Headmaster. I'll become a Huntsman by year's end no matter. So, you can rest easy! I swear I'll save your friend, maybe even before the end of the Vytal Festival!" Jaune grinned widely as he rested his hands behind his head, "I'm actually really curious what kind of person you want me to save. Maybe we could even become friends for saving their life."
Ozpin chuckled at Jaune's words, his normally calculative gaze warm with thought, "Perhaps, Jaune, perhaps. I'm sure she'll be more than grateful for leading her out of the darkness with that smile of yours."
"She?" Jaune said curiously before nodding in understanding. It made sense, most of the powerful people he knew were girls. Other than his fellow Players of course. But then again, what could be as strong as a Player?
"I'll be sure that you meet her at some point in the semester. It wouldn't do if you don't even know the name of the maiden you're waking from her slumber." Ozpin said in amusement. With Jaune's odd luck with woman, he wouldn't be surprised if yet another girl fell for the blond's charms.
But that was quite a way away. There was still much to be done before Jaune met Amber. For now, it was just reassuring to know there was hope to save the Maiden. The search for a worthy candidate for Amber's remaining aura would be put to the back burner. That was another hefty weight off his shoulders he wouldn't be missing.
With that out of the way, there was no need for Jaune to be in his office anymore. He knew it must have been intimidating to be in the Headmaster's office this early in the day. And it was vacation. It was better to let the young man return to his care free days. Because once classes began again, that simple school life would no longer be available for him.
Sitting back in his chair, he gestured Jaune out the door with a small smile.
"I'm happy you've accepted, Mr. Arc. I know that you'll become a great Huntsman by years end. But for now, how about you enjoy your break? I'm sure your friends have plenty of plans to fill up the weeks. Just keep Ms. Valkyrie under control. We don't want to give the arriving students the idea that the students of Beacon are all trigger-happy sugar heads." he chuckled lightly.
Jaune could only ever try, "I'll do my best, Headmaster. Honestly though, I make no promises. Not even an Arc can keep a promise like that." he said lightly before heading for the elevator door. He still had no idea what was on the good old JNPR agenda for the break. He just hoped it was nothing too exciting or anything that would once again trigger a crazy Event. He didn't know how many times he had to stress he didn't want another Friends of Faunus Event again.
A certain blue haired punk came to mind, causing Jaune to smile softly.
'I wonder what Ann's doing? I haven't spoken to her since the fall of the FoF. Knowing her though, she probably hates my guts. I wish I could make it up to her somehow. But how do you make up for killing your adopted father? It didn't really matter that he was a far-gone butcher who led a terrorist group against a species. For the one's you loved you could look past almost anything. I don't think they sell apology cards like that.' If they did, there was something seriously wrong with the world. Other than being controlled by three sadistic beings in place of god.
Ozpin chuckled warmly, knowing it was just as an impossible task as the one he was already asking. Watching Jaune stepping into the elevator, he called out to him one more time before the door shut.
"Who knows, Mr. Arc? Perhaps you may even prove yourself a true Huntsman before the start of the Vytal Festival. You are known for pulling off miracles."
With the ding of the elevator door sending off the young hopeful knight, the clock had begun ticking. Ozpin eased back into his seat, his mug of freshly blended coffee still steaming without showing any signs of ever cooling off. Sometimes being an immortal being with magical powers came with some nifty perks. His coffees never lost their scalding taste.
"Amber, I pray that you continue to stay strong." Ozpin's gaze became sullen as he stared off into the pool of caffeine, the color reminding him of the sleeping beauty locked away from the world deep below his school. A young woman's face replaced his reflection, her skin a dark tan and with a face scarred on a side of her face. He gripped the handle of his mug tightly before staring out into the school, his eyes growing soft at the sight of unkempt blond hair running out with a smile on their face.
"Those bitter dreams will turn sweet one day."
"Marks, huh? Figures I have to complete some cryptic achievements if my life's a video game. You'd think I'd get use to this, but I'm not."
Now that Jaune was free to go back to his dorm room, he roamed the school grounds and took his time getting back. All the while going over his newest Mission, blue eyes glued to his scroll like many other students passing him by. Today's youth truly was obsessed with their scrolls, Jaune nodded as he put his own away. Too busy texting and taking pictures of themselves in his honest opinion. He was different, he played games. Totally different.
Jaune yawned as he rested his arms back against his head, his eyes turned up to the blue sky with not a single cloud in sight. Classes were over for a few weeks and he had all the time he could ever ask for to go back to his old routines, playing games, snacking, and hanging out with his friends. Just like his first life. Or every other day before he even thought of entering Beacon.
His life was a game though, so he was constantly playing. It was depressing when he realized he had played very little video games not dealing with his life since he began training seriously. He didn't have much time with his duties as a leader, working on his powers as a Gamer, and building up his Bonds with his friends. Jaune time was a very rare thing indeed.
Actually, now that Jaune stopped to think about it, he hadn't gotten a message from any of his friends since he left. Usually he'd at least get one message asking to hang out, a chance to increase his Bond with them. Just like Jaune time, it was very rare not to get a message in over ten minutes. The realization made Jaune's eyes widen with a giddy grin growing on his face.
This, this was his chance! His Jaune time! For once in a long time, he was free to do the things that made him Jaune! The things that made him happy, that defined him as a dork! He didn't have to act like a huntsman in training, a warrior, a protector of the worlds peace of mind, he could finally goof off!
Quicker than most socially dependent girls in high school, Jaune whipped out his scroll with the wide beaming grin still plastered on his face. His fingers feverishly tapped away, bringing up the latest releases in games, the newest issues of comics he had been missing out, and adding whatever else his inner dork had been depraved of. He didn't know how long he had until someone in his large circle of friends asked him out, but he was going to make the most of whatever time he had.
In the back of his head, Jaune knew he had already played a good amount of the games he was ready to buy and read some of the comics he had in mind, but that didn't matter. He needed to relax after all he had gone through these few months. What better way than beating up bad guys taking over the world? That didn't involve his own world.
"Kingdom Souls 3 is out?! SINCE WHEN?! That games been in development for thirteen years! I must be dreaming." Jaune nearly had a heartache as he found of his childhood favorites finally releasing the long-awaited sequel. That didn't happen in his original timeline. Oh, the joys of altered timelines. Best part, he didn't have to worry about the price with all the Lien he had on him. If he was never appreciative of his status as a Player, he was now.
The muscles to his face were ready to rip as he added the game to his cart on screen, his eyes practically stars. Now he just needed to find a nice, quiet place to play. 'I'm sorry, everyone, but I'm going to be ignoring you all for the next twenty-four hours. I think I deserve a day of gaming for all that I've done.'
Being immersed in his plans of possibly finding a holoscreen to play for a bigger view, Jaune had forgotten to pay attention to the where he was going.
"Oww."
Or where he was stepping. Or who he was stepping on.
With a shriek that would make his youngest sister shake her head in disappointment, Jaune fell forward to land on his face, his feet tripping over an object on the ground. He groaned in pain. In his fall he dropped his scroll, the pristine white tablet clattering and skipping across the hard surface of the ground. His eyes trembled with unshed tears, his heart ready to plunge into the darkness at the thought of his screen cracking. Or worse, breaking.
"M-My precious Jaune time." he whimpered pitifully, before blinking. Only now did he realize his body didn't meet the same fate as his scroll, his fall cushioned by what felt like... a body?
"Sigh."
Was whoever below him audibly sighing?
"Sigh, again."
Scrambling to get off the stranger, Jaune went to help his human cushion up with an apology already on his lips. Except whoever was lying on the ground didn't accept his helping hand, instead choosing to stare off into nothing while on their stomach. Their pink eyes were bored, appearing upset with a pout as they drew doodle figures with a chalk on the ground. He actually knew that stranger upon closer look.
"Lavender?"
With dull, uninterested eyes, the third-year huntress glanced up at Jaune from her spot on the ground. It was an odd sight to see the older student lying on the ground while many other students passed her by. With the way she was acting, he was reminded of one of his younger sisters in a tantrum. From what little interaction he had with the artistic huntress, she did act like a child.
"Hi, Yellow. Fancy meeting you here." Lavender spoke sourly. She turned back to her doodles, etching a quick Grimm chibi after the vicious Griffon. Jaune was sure that if Hera had seen it, she would be gushing.
Quickly stepping over Lavender for his scroll, Jaune looked down at the dark-skinned woman curiously.
"Um, Lavender? Why are you on the ground? Don't you know you're kinda of a hazard to everyone walking around you?" Jaune asked with a small chuckle.
Lavender blew sputtering breath, lacking her usual energy. It didn't look like she was getting up. She continued to gain odd stares from those walking by her and Jaune.
"Can't a girl just sink into her own despair peacefully? I'm not doing any harm to anyone." she pouted. The chibi Griffon made of odd colored chalk suddenly shined, surprising Jaune a moment later when it came to life. The cutely drawn Grimm flew up above Lavender's head, cawing as it flew over Jaune's head in circles. He gazed in amazement at the now living drawing, noticing it was made of red. It left their sight, flying off to follow some nameless student.
A second later, he heard a shout of panic and a mini explosion from its wandering direction.
"Did... did that thing just blow up?" Jaune gaped. Was that her Semblance or something?
Lavender whistled innocently. Her hands hadn't stopped drawing more cutely designed Grimm with her chalk that he figured was made of Explosive Dust. It wasn't long until a small herd of Griffons flew around to blow up in small balls of explosive force and disrupt the walking traffic.
"Please, stop."
Balling her hands up, Lavender flipped over to her back and kicked her legs up in the air with a more profound pout on her cheeks. Jaune wasn't sure what to do in the face of the adult child tantrum.
"STUPID JERKS! WHY'D THEY HAVE TO LEAVE ME ALL BY MYSELF!? I WANT TO GO HAVE FUN TOO!" she whined loudly into the air. Her hands were a blur swinging with a new piece of chalk, this one glowing an ominous orange that scared off what students were wandering by. Jaune was sweating and edged back slowly. He was in a dangerous situation that could lead to him going kaboom. He had to be careful with his next move.
"W-Who's the stupid jerks, Lavender? Did you get left behind or something?" Now that he thought about it, where was her team? They should be the ones calming her down.
Lavender nodded, sniffing as her hand began to draw lines in the air. Jaune grew even more nervous.
"My team had plans set up and left to go visit their families yesterday. They left me behind to go have fun without me. I would have gone with one of them if I didn't already have something planned in advance. I was actually hoping they could help me with it." Lavender's newest drawing was almost complete, terrifying Jaune to having a heart attack at the menacing drawing of an Ursa Major. Why an Ursa Major? Why was it always an Ursa Major?
"Why didn't you go with your own family? Don't you miss them?" If he wasn't currently dealing with his own issues with his family, Jaune would have gone to visit. He couldn't help but guiltfully cringe at how horrible he was being.
The barring fangs of the deadly Dust born Ursa Major faded away. Jaune grew concerned seeing Lavender cringe like he did.
"Things with my family are... complicated. I can't exactly say Father and Mother were happy with me entering Beacon. Even after all these years." Lavender said humorlessly. The artistic huntress sighed, pocketing her Dust infused chalk into a small clip on satchel tied to her waist. It didn't look like she was in the mood to be causing mayhem.
Jaune could relate. When he first left, his parents weren't happy either. Eventually they calmed down but still believed he would come back home. So much for faith.
"Guess you and I are in the same boat, huh?" Jaune smiled bitterly, earning a small smile from the older student, "Though my team is still here."
"Really? Then why aren't you with them?"
"I-uh, wanted some Jaune time. I haven't really get too many opportunities to relax by myself since coming to Beacon."
Lavender giggled at Jaune's dejected form. Poor kid, she knew her leader was very adamant of her own alone time.
Seeing Lavender brighten up a bit, Jaune continued.
"So, you're all alone during the break? That's gotta suck. Why don't you... hang out with my team?" Jaune couldn't help it, he grimaced. He had been really hoping to play the sequel to his favorite video game. What if this was his only life to play it!? But he couldn't just leave Lavender to herself. He'd kick himself later for it. Or she would.
Lavender appreciated the thought. She also found it funny how Jaune didn't seem too happy with the idea since it would mean sacrificing his Jaune time for her. But she had something important to take care of. She shook her head with a thankful grin.
"You're sweet, Yellow! But I did have something planned out in advance. I knew everyone was planning to visit their families, so I got a mission set up to take up my time." she suddenly grew back her annoyed pout, her fingers itching to reach into her pouch to draw another Grimm, "Sadly, I won't be able to go out on said mission. It's a three-man mission and I don't have my team to help me out. I have a friend who just volunteered a while ago, but I can't find anyone else. And the final check in is in three minutes."
"You have a mission during break? Why not just relax and work on your paintings? I know you're always on the lookout for something fun and exciting to draw." Jaune said brightly before staring at the woman flatly, "Just don't paint me. Ever. Again. I'm still on the hunt for the last of the naked portraits your class drew."
Lavender grumbled at the stare as she leaned closer to Jaune. He grew nervous, noticing her voluptuous chest tickle his own chest. She was definitely a third year with that curvy body of hers.
"We all need Lien, Yellow. Once you become a second year, you're viable for taking missions with your team that offer Lien for your services. At third year, you can even take solo missions or joint missions with others. And my fighting style revolves around using Dust, something that's become rather expensive thanks to all those Dust robberies plaguing the country. That, and top-quality arts supplies are a necessity for a creative mind like myself."
Jaune gulped anxiously at her closeness, "I can understand that. Lien would be tight if my parents didn't send me an allowance every now and again."
"You still get allowances? Oh god, you really are a kid, aren't you?" Lavender snorted in laughter, her attempts to politely not laugh failing. Jaune slumped in shame before Lavender ruffled his golden locks playfully, "Don't worry, most girls would overlook that with your cute looks."
"Really?!"
"Well, most is strong word."
The depressed cloud hanging over Jaune's head and his pitiful whimpering was enough to brighten Lavender's mood. There was just something amusing about picking on him. She had half a mind to trick him into posing heroically nude again just to see his sweating, blushing expression. Too bad she was out of the perfect pigment to paint such a masterpiece again.
A thought suddenly struck the older huntress. Now that she thought back on it, Jaune was pretty strong if the rumors around school were anything to believe in. One of the strongest of his year. He even beat a second year yesterday. Not to mention he was a leader to his own team full of powerhouses. An eager grin fell on her face.
"Say, Yellow? You wouldn't mind doing a friend a favor, would you?" she asked hopefully with a twirl of her violet hair with her finger.
Jaune groaned, the world stopping as his scroll buzzed.
"One day, just a day to myself. Can't you even give me that?"
New Mission[Optional]
A Special Place Tucked Far Away:
Lavender is in a bind! Join the third year in her mission patrolling a camp alongside another student. The mission will be a week long, so be prepared! Who knows what awaits outside Beacon's grounds? Be sure to pack marshmallows!
Reward: 3,000Lien, Ignite Spell, Scout Perk.
Failure Penalty: Unknown.
Reward for Accepting: Unlock Lavender Brosse Friendship.
Accept? Yes/No
Jaune bit his thumbnail, struggling with his own want to relax with some games. This was his day! The one chance to relax and be Jaune. Why did he have to go on a mission? He knew he didn't have to, but he also knew he couldn't turn down Lavender's request. Plus, he'd unlock her Friendship.
With a begrudging sigh, Jaune accepted the mission. It wouldn't be so bad, right? Hell, he'd get to hang out with a pretty, older, and womanly huntress for a week. Most guys would kill for a chance like that! He couldn't help but blush at the thoughts entering his head. Damn his hormones.
Coughing into his fist, Jaune nodded as he looked away, "I guess I can't say no. A friend wouldn't leave you like that. And we are friends, right?" he grinned.
Lavender squealed, tackling Jaune into a hug that nearly knocked him over. Someone was overjoyed.
Congratulations! A new Friendship has been Unlocked! Lavender Brosse's Friendship, Unlocked!
It looked like Jaune would have to hope for another day for Jaune time. Because he was going to be busy packing and explaining to his team why he would be gone for a week. He might as well stop by Professor Anthiea's class for some extra potions.
"Wait until I tell White!"
Wait, White? Jaune blinked as a chill went down his spine. Why did that sound familiar again?
Off to the farside of the Emerald Woods, away from the city of Vale and Beacon's grounds, was a nice little countryside untouched by the high tech modern world. A few towns lived in peace, making do with what they had and their simple ways. And in the deep center of the forest laid a special place, one said to be tucked away for all to stay. A special little camp for you and-
"DEAR GOD, MAX! PUT DOWN THE FIRE EXTINGUISHER! IT WAS NEVER MEANT TO BE USED THAT WAY!"
"FUCK OFF, DAVID! NIEL, NICKI! LET IT RIP!"
"ADVENTURE!"
"B-BUT MY CALCULATIONS SAY THAT IT'S IMPOSSIBLE! SCIENCE DOESN'T LIE!"
BOOM!
Well, almost everyone.
Inside the common cabin of the Camp Cambell's CampCamp, a dark-skinned woman with chestnut hair, tired purple eyes, and scout's uniform sighed as she smacked her face. The growing fire was the least of her concerns, it would actually be a blessing if the place burned down. She looked down to her clipboard, ignoring the chaos around her to stare at the form in hand.
REQUEST FOR HUNTSMAN SERVICES: ACCEPTED.
"Maybe people trained in dealing with monsters will be able to help us?" she said tiredly with some hope. That was until her face was splashed with foam and her hair was blow back by another explosion.
"Fire! Everyone, stop, drop, and roll!"
"Anarchy, anarchy!"
"Burn down the establishment!"
"Science never lies!"
Gwen groaned, smacking the clipboard against her forehead.
"Who am I kidding? These kids are worse than Grimm."
Hope those huntsmen liked campfire songs. Because there were going to be a lot of them.
To a special place tucked far away, you will stay. A simple mission at a camp with friends to enjoy the outdoors for once. What could go wrong?
To become more that what you are, you must leave your Marks upon this world. Remnant will test you. Even at your leisure, the darkness will crawl at the nape of your neck. And consume those flickers of light gathered around you. For Heroes don't exist. Get real.
Do you know the way? The way to your salvation? The way to your souls release from this wretched world where you don't belong?
Do not worry. They'll show you the way.
FoGD.
That's right! If you haven't already guessed, this next Arc will be mixed with CampCamp! Man, I've had this in mind during the beginning and now I'm finally writing it out! Oh, this is going to good. Expect comedy, drama, action, and a good camp fire song. And now we have Marks this Volume. Marks of The Hero, The Warrior, The Leader, The Promise, The Light, and The Supremacy. I'm sure not even you all can guess what I can in store for those fun events. Can ya?
That's not all though for this Arc. No, it's special as a coin. For a coin has two sides. We have the side of The Heart, but what about the other? What do you think I have in Mind? Wink, wink.
Arc-1 Begins!
H:A Special Place Tucked Far Away/M: To Act Once Again.
I'll do my best to get these chapters out as fast as I can. Let's hope life doesn't smack me around again. For now though, I'll take a little break and work on my original script for the game I got in mind. I always did want to learn how to write programs. Funny how I consider this relaxing. Man, I'm really going to burn myself out at this point, aren't I?
Meh, I got this.
Read and Review! It's common courtesy.
NeoShadows fading in and out.