Chapter 4. A Bad Day?
"So..." Pyrrha glanced around her teammate. Nora herself pretty much enjoying herself in bed while Ren only close his eyes and seems taking nap but Pyrrha aware that the man actually not sleep
It just been a week after they become team together. Until now pretty much there nothing problem or disagreement between them. She found Nora presence enjoyable, much like their Leader, the bubbly girl seems doesn't care about her status much to Pyrrha delight, albeit the girl too energetic for her taste sometime
As for Ren... Pyrrha actually have hard time to think both of them really close. Unlike Nora, Ren is the opposite, in fact he almost like her Leader albeit he seems more... Lighter. The man not often to talk and mostly spending time in silent, however sometime he also try to make conversation with her. Their relationship now quite good, albeit it still awkward, can't be blamed seeing they just getting know each other for a week
As for their Leader...
"What you two opinion about Jaune?" She asked
Hearing that, Nora turned to her, she still have her usual cheerful grin while Ren open one of his eyes and look up to her who sit in her bed
"Jaune-Jaune is good leader! I like him!" Nora chirped happily "But not like-like that you know? It will be awkward! I like him like I like pancake! So fluffy, yummy and delicious! Oh! I got this pancake! When I try to put strawberry and apple syrup together it-"
"I get it Nora." Pyrrha sighed, cutting the girl from speaking. Like she thought before, the girl can be too energetic for her taste sometime. She briefly noted there small and dry amusement from Ren eyes "What I want to know is, what you think of him?"
"Welllllll... Jaune-Jaune pretty good in leading! He kinda like Ren! Always silent and focused to himself! But he's good guy like Ren too! But unlike Ren, he kinda have stick stuck to his ass!"
Pyrrha sweatdropped at the blatant vulgar declaration from the orange haired girl. Though she instantly frowned hearing that, their leader is not such bad person, until now he proved to be decent obne
She about to reprimand the girl but before she able to, Ren slowly rise from his bed and sit, cutting her from speaking "What Nora mean is not like what you think. It not his attitude toward us, he treat us well sure, but he need to lighten up a bit."
"Eyup!" Nora nodded, emphasizing the "P" part
"I admit Jaune proved to be good leader this far. He never said inadequate things to us, nor he try to make us feel excluded when we doing things together, and he also seems quite eager to make us comfortable as much as he can. But that's where the problem begin." Ren ruffled his hair that become untamed slightly due to laying in bed for moment
"He did it too much?" Pyrrha continued after Ren who nodded with grunt
"Exactly." Ren agreed "I admit when he take charge and make plan about strategy in fighting or studying he is good, but when come to common things..."
"Jaune-Jaune lack of common sense." Nora added while bobbing her head up, down
Pyrrha can agree with them in that part. Truthfully their leader really lack common sense, which is strange seeing he pretty good in leading and communicating during fighting, but when come to daily routine...
'Is he... Some kind of veteran Hunter? That pretty much will explain everything but.. At least veteran not that awkward in society...' She scowled at the thought 'And also what kind of kind veteran who only at our age?'
To be honest she feel kinda bad to trying intrude their Leader privacy like this, but she worried for him. They mayble only have been together for week, but Pyrrha will proudly said that the are friends now
"Where Jaune-Jaune by the way? I didn't see him after class." Nora asked
"He told me he going to library to borrow some book about Dust and Aura for our homework." Pyrrha answered
As if being called, the door of their room opened, revealing familiar pale blond haired man who still clad in his academy uniform -albeit his tie loosened and one of his shirt button opened-, carrying few books
"Hello everyone, I'm back." He greeted as he walk toward them, pulling his blazer away
"Welcome back." Pyrrha greeted back, Nora give big grin and wave of her hand while Ren merely grunt and nod "So how in library?"
"I get the book we need." He said, waving the book to them as he place it to table "There nothing much happen in there. Though it seems starting the next day we possibly could be requested for mission."
"Ah right. We got one week theory and pretty much explanation before send to the field." Pyrrha nodded in understanding
"Any idea what our first mission will be?" Nora asked, eagerness laced in her voice
"It depend on the headmaster." Jaune answered "There three rank in taking mission actually. D, C, and B. In D level you usually send with adult Hunter and act as their assistance and helping them, you also may exterminate small numbers in Grimm that located inside Vale.
"In C rank, you could get send as reinforcement to place that outside Vale but still close enough in case something happen -usually one of Hunter will be send with you for protection-. You also possibly will be ordered to engage criminals that can't be handled by Police and Army. Of course the criminals wouldn't be that dangerous, you can also go in order to protect some merchant or traveler
"In B rank, you mostly going to send to out from Vali. It possibly rescue mission or killing large amount of Grimm. Other is such as : facing criminal that consider dangerous, Roman Torchwick is example of this. On other case you may also send to escort important person in his/her way to his/her destination."
"Ooohhh." Nora mouth shaped to 'o' in here 'So... Which one we get?"
"Most first year in few weeks or one month going to get D rank mission. After that, we going to get C rank."
"Ehhh?! So we only get simple stuff?" Nora pouted "It boooorrriiiiiinggg!" She lamented, the idea to doing simple thing clearly not bring any excitement to her at all
"I won't be so sure of that." Jaune shook his head "Among all First Year, I dare to say we and RWBY team will be send to C rank or maybe B even in this term."
"Huh? Why?" Pyrrha asked
"Well, first, it obvious among all First Year we are the strongest. That much can be seen when we handle giant Nevermore and Death Stalker in Emerald Forest and Headmaster Ozpin surely aware of this. He may going to send us to C rank rather than D, of course there will be Hunter come along with us or we may go alone, depend on the mission."
"Isn't that kind of... Favoritism?" Pyrrha asked with frown
"Not really. Think it like this, we are skilled, more than everyone. So why waste our talent? If we only used for D-rank mission it will be useless, almost like fairing adult Hunter against a mere thug."
"You got point in there." Ren grunted in agreement
"We probably still won't get mission tomorrow, but after that I won't be sure." Jaune said with shrug "Anyway, there something I need to tell you all. I kind of forget since none of you mentioned about it."
"What is it?" Nora asked
"My super strength."
"Ah..." Pyrrha glanced at her teammate, while Nora make eager-looking face, Ren only quirked his eyebrow, then she darted back to him "Jaune, if you don't want to tell us it fine. We can respect your privacy."
"No." Jaune shook his head "As a Leader, I have to tell you at least. I mean, this information could be useful, and who know maybe in some situation you can make better plan than me if I... Vulnerable at some moment."
That actually make sense... They can't always depend on their Leader, who know in some moment Jaune too stressful to make plan and things like that.
"It my Semblance." Jaune told them, taking sign of their silent as agreement
"Your Semblance give you your super strength?" Ren asked
"No, to be specific, my Semblance allow my body to able manipulate Aura to high degree." Jaune clench his fist, and slowly he extend it, reveal there small spark of dark violet colored aura surround it "It allow me to control the Aura inside me, manipulating them as I wish. As you all know, with proper training one can use Aura as weapon than only shield."
Ren mind crossed to when he use it against the Grimm in forest, how he send shockwave of Aura to the King Taijitu that he stab in eye using it own fang
"Yes, I know that." Ren grunted, everyone also show understanding face
"It similar like that, but mine is advanced version of it. Instead manipulating Aura to let out blast attack, I flow my Aura to my body, to every part of my muscles when I fight and strengthen it."
"That's..." Ren not even bother to hide his surprise as he gawked. That's actually very hard, to able manipulate Aura in that level, one will need to train strictly for a years! Ten or fifteen perhaps! He, who said to be talented in using his Aura as weapon even can't do that! He only able to create shockwave and repulsion power, but to shoot it like projection is impossible! True he can use it to strengthen his body, but the level of Jaune strength display is in another level which mean...
Jaune is Master in Aura Manipulation, thanks to his Semblance
"That is simple thing but... Very effective." Pyrrha grunted, also in awe
Jaune only shrugged. He lied actually, that's not his Semblance, his super strength actually is come from his own, pure from his body. But he does can manipulate Aura to high degree if he wish to -not like the one he explained of course-. For some reason he can manipulate Aura better than anyone, even Ozpin admit he surprised. It probably come from result of his body that got experimented, Gods knew what Taro did to him, even until now Jaune doesn't know his limitation
"Yeah, but sadly I only can control mine. It did not work when I try to use my Aura to other. I already try it and the result is nil." Jaune added, to make sure his position perfectly covered
Hearing that Ren frowned. Well, there goes his plan to ask Jaune to company him to train in Aura manipulation. If Jaune can extend his Aura to other, he can use it to guide his Aura and teach him through direct contact
"How does that work?" Pyrrha asked
"I don't know." Jaune also frowned "Perhaps... It because I'm a loner person in first place." He said with thoughtful face. There connection between Semblance and someone character after all, it good alibi to cover his story
And it appear to be worked as he see his team appear to bought it.
"Oh yeah, it also appear we going to have sparring season tomorrow in Professor Goodwitch class." Jaune informed make them blinked
"How you know that?" Pyrrha asked
"There rumor of it. I also caught from Senior student that in last two years Professor Goodwitch always held sparring season a week after we enter the school." Jaune explained
"So it kind of tradition?" Ren asked
"Not exactly, it just happen in these last two years." Jaune stare at them one by one "In any case, just make sure you not eat anything strange later in dinner so you can stay at your prime condition for tomorrow."
Pyrrha and Ren sweatdropped, like they said before, their leader often go overboard to make them safe or feel comfortable. Jaune himself aware though despite give them warning, there no way he will be paired tomorrow. Professor Goodwitch knew just how strong he is. Jaune can take on whole team and come out as victor if he wish to, without getting hard time.
"Not need to worry Jaune-Jaune!" Nora puffed her chest in proud manner "I always eat pancake! It healthy and delicios! So I will be always in condition!" She declared
"I would like to say eating pancake everyday is not healthy, but this far you never show any sign being ill so I guess it acceptable." Jaune grunted to the cheerful girl
"Of course I never sick! Pancake is the best food after all!"
As Nora began to ranting about how awesome pancake and how to make it more delicious. Jaune only can shook his head, pancake maybe not make her ill, but the way she always energetic like this... Perhaps it because the sugar rush? That actually the best explanation
Then again, Ren did said that Nora always energetic like this. Pancake or not. A Semblance then? That is the biggest possibility, seeing Semblance can be described as manifestation of character.
Truthfully, Jaune want to ask his teammate Semblance. It so he can make proper strategy when fight come. However like people said, Semblance can be categorized as manifestation of someone character. It can be said quite private matter to few people. And he don't want to ask his teammate bluntly, according to the book he read he have to give his team privacy and don't press them too much, unless it going to affect teamwork
Right now, they just getting know each other so he doesn't have any problem if they don't want to reveal their Semblances. There still much time for them to get know each other after all
'I wonder how Ruby handle hers huh? I doesn't heard anything from her this last few days, which mean good thing as she now not in trouble.'
Next day
"So... How your doing with your team in last week?" Yang asked
"My team is fine, until now there no problem. Jaune proved to be decent leader." Pyrrha asked
Currently team RWBY and JNPR was on their way to Professor Goodwitch class. They just finishing another Professor Port class and now move to the next one which happen to be the Witch class
The relationship between Team JNPR and Team RWBY can be said close. In the last first week both of them more active in getting know each other. While when class done or there no class, they does doing their owny activity, but when breakfast, lunch break and dinner they often looking together
Blake usually spending time with Ren and Nora. While she having hard time processing what Nora said, but with Ren on her side, she found company of the energetic girl and her childhood friend quite comfortable
Weiss and Yang meanwhile talk with Pyrrha, when spending time with the Schnee Heiress, Pyrrha often talk about politic or things like that but with Yang they usually joking and talk about more free stuff such as boy, outfit, fighting style and things like that
"Hm, I guess Jaune indeed proved to be decent company. Albeit his manner need to be improved." Weiss said with agreement, she had observe the man in this week and indeed he proved to be decent like in initiation. He also seems come from famous family, if she recall there family called Arc, she has read about them somewhere before. She will check on them later when she got vacation and able to go home for a moment. Albeit like she said when he look at them first time, he rude person and doesn't care much about formality
"Hmm. Agree with that but..." Yang face turned to scowl as she staring at Jaune "That guy kind of fishy."
Pyrrha refrain to roll her eyes when Yang say that. Of course she will said that, she just spend time with Yang for a week and she already knew that the blonde haired brawler is very, very protective toward her little sister. Weiss meanwhile not even bother to refrain it, her eyes rolled and face scrunch to annoyance
"Oh please, Yang. You already said it for what? Nine time?" She asked rhetorically with sarcasm "Just because Jaune close to Ruby, doesn't mean he try to make move on her."
Indeed, currently walking in front of them and chatting to each other, is their Leaders, Ruby Rose and Jaune Arc. Both of them engaged in conversation, those two currently talking about weapons, a design of Crescent Rose precisely. Ruby appear to be really enjoy it as she gushed like a children talking about her favorite movie, all while making gesture with her hands
Jaune only silent, his face remain stoic and neutral. He give nod to her, pointing few flaws about the design, and answering the question. Sometime he told the petite red haired girl about few scenario that may happen, and ask her what she may do if she the one who led in that scenario
"So, I can add Wind Dust around the edge of scythe to increase it sharpness rather than using my gun?"
"Yes, or you can use Fire Dust. You know, heating the steel so it possess more power. However it won't be easy, to do that you need to redesign the part around Crescent Rose blade. And we may also going to remove the sniper rifle part."
"Eh? That mean I will only have normal gun? I going to need the sniper!"
"Yes, but aren't there Weiss and Blake handling that part?"
"Uhh, I don't think it kind of right. I mean, Blake and Weiss weapon range not that long, mine is the longest. Albeit it had no large impact, it sniper rifle after all."
"Hmm, that problematic. All of your team able to fight range and melee though, mine as well except me. I think it depend on how your role actually, you can be the main attacker if you wish, with your speed and hot scythe it would be-"
It was safe to say the reason why team JNPR and team RWBY is because their leader also close. It not like they close in that way, no, they close as if normal friends spending time together. Only like that, nothing special
But of course, Yang overprotective nature see it as... Something else
Now, now, Yang actually has no problem with Jaune. Ruby already told her about how Jenny condition, and now Jaune also seems experience same things. But for God sake, how the heck he, who older than his little sister can be more social awkward than her?!
Let just call it a hunch, but somehow Yang feel quite wary to the man in black armor. On her defense, shejust know him only for a week after all, and in that one week, he able to get this close to her little sister, granted Ruby maybe friendly girl but still...
Pyrrha herself admit there strange with Jaune. She like Yang also have her own suspicion, but she respect Jaune. Jaune never did anything but helping and make them comfortable as much as he can. The best thing she can do to him is respecting his privacy seeing he never pry on theirs.
And yes, she kind of feeling quite envy that Jaune more often to chat with Ruby than his own team, unlike Ruby who spend times with her time and Jaune fairly
'Perhaps, it because Ruby cheerful person. And maybe there fact it because she her little sister friend as well.' Pyrrha thought as they now entering the class, their Leader enter first and they follow them
It was then the moment she enter, she notice someone glaring at them. Her eyes narrowed when see Cardin give disdain look to them... No, it not at them. The Mistral Champion following his gaze and she found the target of such glare is not at them, but to someone in front of them
Her Leader precisely
She scowled. Team CRDL, even when they only start their first week but they already infamous for being bully, acting improper and often antagonizing other students. There nothing good coming from them this far, other than they quite good in fighting, and Cardin himself is not weakling, his raw power and endurance is one of the thing that become rumor when in last week his Aura detected to be quite massive for someone at his age
"Jaune." Pyrrha called when they taking seat
"Hm?" He grunted
"Why Cardin glaring at you?" She asked, eyes roamed to Cardin silently, who glowering at their direction
"I don't know. I didn't do anything to offense him." Jaune answered simply
"Really?" Pyrrha eyebrow quirked, Ren and Nora who seat in one row also began to listening, RWBY team that sit in front of them also paid attention
"Yes." Jaune nodded
"Then, did you have talk with him? Yesterday or this morning?"
"... Well, yesterday after I got out from library, I walk in same corridor with him. He bump my shoulder with his and he fall to the floor after doing that." Jaune said, face turned to thoughtful while rub his chin "I offer him help to stand but he refuse it." He shrugged
Hearing that Yang and Nora snickered, Blake, Ren and Weiss allow smirk of amusement crossed to their face while Ruby giggle a bit, imagining large man like Cardin fall when he the one who bump someone who smaller than him... That clearly quite embarrassing. Pyrrha meanwhile not share their amusement as she stare dully at Jaune
"And you not even bother to tell us?"
"Should I? I did not find someone like him will be problem for our team. He maybe have strength and power, but it unpolished. And we had face Death Stalker who able to tear ten person like Cardin apart so he won't be trouble for us."
Technically that is true but...
"Dealing with a person and Grimm is different Jaune." Pyrrha pointed with sigh
In response, her leader merely shrugged in nonchalant manner. The red haired Huntress only can shook her head at that, her Leader truly strange person. She briefly spare another glance to Cardin and noted the man seems to be more upset, does they talk that loud?
Whatever she thinking being cut as the door opened, revealing certain blonde haired Huntress who walking in, her posture is straight and firm, face set into stoic face and her glasses seems gleaming for moment as her green eyes swiveling to the whole room
"Everyone, go change your outfit into one you use when in battle. Gather in Amphitheater after that, I will be waiting there. You all have fifteen minutes to change, all whose late, will be punished."
After she said that, she turned around and leave
The students who hearing this glanced at each other before they all began to move. None of them wishing to late, not after they see her punish one of senior student few days ago to clean the toilet with nothing but bare hand during weekend
And spending weekend by cleaning toilet is big, no, no to everyone
"I will keep it plain and simple." Glynda said, her eyes observing her students that gathered "In last week, none of you have my class. Some of you may already heard why I never give class to First Year from senior students but to you who not, I will say why. It because I don't like arrogant children who think they can take the World." She bluntly spoke, earning many blink from her students "I already watch all of you, ever since you enter your initiation test, then followed by how you behave in last week.
"And I admit, in that spawn of times I very disappointed!"
Most students grimaced when her tone become stricter and more harsh, even Pyrrha found herself went rigid when the woman shouted like that. She briefly spare glance to her Leader, but as always the man not seems intimidated, his only reaction is narrowed eyes and eyebrow that quirked
"I see arrogant children who boast themselves, thinking themselves able to take the World, thinking they are the best among the best while as matter of fact it only few who are the bests! Even that I found their attitude and behavior is unfitting to becoming Hunter! And what more disgusting, there few children who only can talk and yet, boasting as if they the best!
"I won't said the names, but I surely you all realize whom I talking to, if you really want to become proper Hunter then change your attittude now and behave with right mindset!
"Beacon... Is one of the best Academy in this Kingdom." She stated, eyes roaming to everyone "There many Academy out there, but among them all, Beacon stand alone, on it own league. Those who graduate from Beacon, most of them become professional Hunter and Huntress until now." Her eyes seems gleaming in power as she leering at the students "And neither Headmaster or any staffs in here, including me wish that to change... Understood?"
"""YES MA'AM!""" Everyone barked, it was clear by the way the woman talk and she glaring at them she only want to hear one answer, and that answer better be firm and good, or there will be consequence
"Good." Glynda grunted, voice remain stoic despite she approve them "Let get to the point. Aura... All of you clearly familiar with that and I sure all of you has awaken your Aura, some even able to manipulate them to certain degree. Few only have small experience on it, and worse, some not even know how to use it at all other than as body armor." She paused to read the students expression and glad few of them had decency to squirm and flinched "So, a demonstration will be in order! For the first fight I won't point finger, some of you who feel confident, stand now and chose your opponent!"
Cardin Winchester instantly take step forward, smirk crossed to his face "I do, Professor!" He said
Glynda green eyes fell to the large student immediately, judging the mace wielder Hunter before she tap her Scroll "Cardin Winchester, Leader of Team CRDL. Very well, who you wish to fight?"
"Him."
All students eyes fell to Jaune who watching and only silent as Cardin finger pointed to him. Seeing this for moment dull expression crossed to Glynda face before replaced by her firm and strict mask.
"Me?" Jaune eyebrow narrowed. Surely he not serious? HIM?! This... Moron want to fight him?
Cardin nodded, a glint is visible in his eyes as he smirked down to him. He still remember yesterday event and how embarrassing is it when few students snicker seeing he fall. He will show this man that he mess with the wrong guy!
Jaune eyes briefly meet Glynda and he can tell the Witch disapprove this. Even Jaune admit that this is stupid beyond any reason. Him who can tango against horde of Goliath, facing against someone at his level? The idea was so ridiculous that it almost like killing a mere ant by using bomb!
"Can I refuse?" Jaune asked to Glynda, making the students broke in murmur while his team and RWBY look to him with surprise
He can... He truly can... Glynda so tempted to said yes. Jaune is already on his own level, it rude and immoral to said it like this, but she can't deny it, Jaune is really a weapon. A perfect weapon perhaps, the growth and strength Jaune display is on level that even surpassing Atlesian Paladin that now currently designed in Atlas. Jaune can tore that machine apart like a paper if he wish to
Fairing him against Cardin will be resulted only in Cardin lose...
Which is good thing, the boy need to taken down few peg, he is one of students that enter her 'bad' mark after all
"And the reason of your refusal?" Glynda asked
"Do you use gun to kill an ant?" Jaune asked back, his voice stoic as his gaze matched Glynda "Professor, I'm way above Cardin level, you know this. If we fight, I will destroy him."
"What?!" Cardin roared in anger, eyes blazing with fury as he glaring at Jaune "You little shit! Try to said it in front of me! Come here and face me like a man, coward!"
Jaune briefly turn to him, he close his eyes as a sign of disappointment and as if the man not even worthy "If you blind enough to not see our difference then it only proof further that I am correct. Train yourself harder first, you have some potential, look to it instead ignoring part of your logical brain and act like your brain cell only made by muscle ."
"Wow..." Yang whistled "Talk about being harsh." She murmured with snicker
"Jaune, I think that is too much." Pyrrha whispered through his back
"I only stating the fact Pyrrha. We knew I going to trash him, why should I fight him then? It better if he pick another opponent and train himself further instead wasting his time." Jaune replied simply, his voice loud enough so everyone can hear as he give small shrug "If he insist though, I will make sure he going to spend his time in hospital so he can rethink his decision in future."
It was when hearing that JNPR and RWBY team understand that Jaune actually not being arrogant. While his words seems like one but the tone he use is same one when he speak bluntly to them. No, he not being arrogant or mocking Cardin, he really speaking the truth, a fact
"Err, I don't think it will be good idea to send him to Hospital Jaune." Ruby pointed in slight nervous tone, remembering Jaune super strength that was big possibility, she admit perhaps only Yang or Pyrrha who can stand against Jaune direct assault. True Cardin seems strong, but she still quite traumatized when see Jenny blatantly trashing one of jerk in her school. And if Jaune anything like her, then Cardin is going to be in deep problem
Cardin meanwhile feel his nostril flared and his vein seems popped in his forehead. How dare this man?! This little shit! Who he think he is?! He take step forward and about to smash him in instant
"Stay where you are Mr Winchester." Glynda strict voice of course prevent him from doing that, prompting the man turned to her "Make no mistake, Mr Arc is being honest. I had see he fighting against one of dangerous Grimm in Emerald Forest and able to engage the beast without suffering any injury, and while it impressive you manage to handle few Beowolves and Ursa by yourself in forest but what Mr Arc did is something else." She said bluntly "And this is no favoritism if you don't believe me you may fight him. But after that I assure you that you will spend some time in infirmary." She stated before turned to Jaune, ignoring Cardin fuming face "And Mr Arc, do not threatening fellow student, this is your first warning, if you hit three, you will going to regret it."
"My apologize Professor." Jaune said, voice is stoic and calm, making no one can't decipher does he sincere or not
"So your response Mr Winchester?" Glynda asked
"Yes! I going to fight him." Cardin insisted, all while keep glaring at Jaune
"Very well." Glynda already can feel headache formed in her head, she cover it with her usual strict facade though and tapping her Scroll "Mr Arc, would you please enter the arena?"
"Sure."
If this man keep persistent, then there no need to talk anymore
Later
"You didn't need to went that far!" Ruby shrieked as she give smack to the man back
Said the man merely look at her dully while swallowing the food he chew, not even show any sign he being in pain when the girl hit him in the shoulder "Relax, at least he not ended in hospital."
"You stomp him down enough to make two meters deep hole in the dueling arena then send him straight out from Amphitheater while breaking the wall in process." Blake dully commented "I think he will go to hospital, Aura or not, he clearly need to be checked."
"Well..." Jaune paused with hum "I did warn him before." He said before chomping his food once again
"Jaune, you can't just go beat people like that. Sure Cardin kind of jerk but." Pyrrha sighed and pinch bridge of her nose "Must you trash him that bad? I mean, does it satisfy you to see him down like that?" She actually has no problem with what happen to Cardin. The man get what he sow, but when see that so called 'duel' even she slight grimaced. That wasn't duel, that was total slaughter. Jaune himself not even appear to take the man seriously as he dodging all Cardin attack until he tired, and when he did, Jaune strike
And he did so in very merciless manner
"People like him need to be taught with using force. I warn him, twice, Professor Goodwitch warn him as well but he still stupid enough. So don't blame me, I'm not in fault in this case, blame his pride and stupidity."
"Exactly!" Yang agreed as she grinned, hand tugging Jaune in one-hand hug "I agree with Jaune here, Cardin can use some beating! That was quite awesome if you ask me! You beat him without get any scratch!"
Truthfully, no one from team RWBY has see Jaune himself fight, it because they in that time too focused fighting the Nevermore. Most of them aware he possess extraordinary strength but not at what they expected
Team JNPR themselves also not bother to telling them. It not like they don't want to, but it their secret. Like Jaune said, there can be competition in future, and they want to keep it as hidden ace. It also because they respect their Leader who willing to tell them even if he don't have to in first place, in fact it should be them who told him so he can make proper battle strategy in future. But he not ask them nor ever mention it until now, it just proper if they return the favor
"Hey! Tough guy, how about you and me go few rounds?" Yang asked
Jaune stared at her. Truthfully, Jaune will said Yang is one of students that currently the best and have big guts. It not everyday you see someone willing to jump to Nevermore beak after all. And he admit, she skilled, she can be considered as mature Huntress already, tough only High C or low B rank
But it still mean something for someone at her age...
He about to respond her, but a yelp of pain from feminine voice followed by laughter get their attention as they turned and see a brown haired girl with bunny ears got one of hers tugged by two familiar people
"Man, Cardin is right. The ears is real!" Sky Lark laughed as he pulling the woman ears
"And I was thinking it only a costume before! Ha! What a freak!" Russel Thrush snickered
"It hurt! Please stop!"
The whole group now glaring daggers to both of them. Even if their leader, Cardin n now being treated after his fight with Jaune, but CRDL team still make problem. It wasn't secret that they aalso one of most disliked among the First year
"What an idiots." Jaune sighed as he shake his head
"Agree... The way they act... I can't stand people like them." Pyrrha said in angry voice
"You're not the only one." Blake added coolly
"It must be hard to be a Faunus." Yang commented sadly as he give look to Velvet
"Not really." Jaune replied, making his and RWBY team turned to him "If she not being idiot then that won't happen."
There momentary silence when he spoke of that. Jaune himself notice the sudden change of atmosphere whil munching his food, he noted that every single of them looked shocked and confused
"What you mean she being idiot?" Blake asked, her eyes narrowed sharply and the Black Knight can detect small malice intent in there
"Look at her." Jaune gestured to the woman who now sit by herself "Did any of you recognize her? No right? No mean anything but someone with bunny ears surely going to be recognized in First Year. But none of you did, which mean, she senior student." He shook his head "She supposed to be Senior Student, but now she being bullied by someone younger than her and she did nothing. How that sound?"
At that everyone begin to look at each other, if he put it that way... That sound quite... Ridiculous
"So what? Do you want her to attack them back? That what you said?" Blake eyes narrowed further as she recall how her time in White Fang
"Yes." Jaune said bluntly "Why not? Those two start the problem, why not strike back?"
"Violence never solve anything Jaune." Ruby spoke softly, eyes held small amount of sadness
"Wrong. If you read through history, everything we have now is because violence that happen in history." Jaune pointed back
"But it not right! Look what those history done to us?! True we living in peace and all, but even in this era there many bad things happen because of it!"
"You can't expect the World to get complete White as result." Jaune said solemnly "White cannot exist without Black, so do the latter." His dark violet orbs peer to Ruby silver, the petite girl gaze matching his and not showing any sign of willing to relent "Faunus, Human. Good, Evil. Those only things that made by people, in first place there no such things. Let me ask you, one man try to stealing from noble and he get caught, resulted to be in prison for long time. That was right thing correct? But what no one know that thief have children to feed, now because he in prison those children dead due to hunger. Now, is that right thing?"
Silver eyes faltered as the owner recoiled, face scrunched to shock and small horror.
"That's... That's..."
"White Fang, Mankind, both of them are idiots if you ask me." Jaune sneered openly to her "We have Grimm out there, a monsters that has become our enemy the moment we born. And not just that, they outnumber us ten to one or possibly bigger. Yet, here we are, fighting each other rather than focusing to the enemy we fight for very long time." He allow snort escape from his mouth as he stand "Mankind is idiot, Faunus themselves also idiot. If all of us killed by Grimm in the end I will gladly said 'Well, not surprise this coming.' For that is not wrong, but it already predictable." He turned to his team who stare at him with their own shocked faces "I'm done eating, Pyrrha, Nora, Ren, don't look for me, I have something to take care of. And this is order."
"Wait! Jaune, wait!"
Ignoring Pyrrha call, he began to walk away, he can tell students that near their group and hear his talk giving him look but he not even bother to acknowledge them as he keep his pace. Then, he stop in his way, standing on side of Velvet who frozen as well. He turned to her, his cold dark violet gaze meet with hers brown eyes that filled with fear, like a rabbit that stare at eye of snake
"I knew you hear us, rabbit Faunus have quite listening sense after all. So do us, mankind a favor and stand on your own feet. I can tell you are stronger than them, Senior. Ignoring those idiots will do nothing but make them become more idiots. True sometime you have to keep silent if you facing the right people but them? You not helping your kin by not fighting but only worsening your state. You have potential Senior, don't waste it." He said coldly, eyes peering down at her as if wish to ensuring she got what he said registered to her mind "You have potential, wasting it will only burdening this World, and people around you. And we all knew we already dying enough from Grimm assault, don't burden our job further because you too afraid of people opinion." He declared before he walk away, leaving the Faunus shivering and only can stare fearfully at his harsh words
The group who watching only can silent as they see Jaune walk away, an uncomfortable tension appear around them as they unsure what to do and what actually wrong with Jaune
"Someone seems in bad mood." Yang said with grimace
"Well... This morning he also not talk too much." Nora replied before she make thoughtful face "Umm, not like that. I mean, Jaune only talk when necessary and he not often talk. But today he just seems kinda off." She added while give small grin
"Nora right. I mean, when we talk this morning, Jaune more quite than usual." Ruby agreed as she recall the conversation. Usually Jaune will ask her another question about leading, truthfully Ruby found Jaune is very fun to talk with. Despite he older and also better strategist but when come in things like common sense the boy really oblivious! Always asking for help like that and there one time when she did trick her for her fun, no harm done of course but well... You got the point
It almost like having little brother but at same time also big brother! Ruby do enjoy the time they spend together with
So seeing Jaune like this it kind of shocked him. She never see this side of him, despite his cold attitude he never show such... Dark perspective. He always helping her and her friend, giving advice and support, so for him to suddenly saying such dark words
'Then again, he actually trying to help. Albeit he use... Darker way..' Ruby frowned, she disapprove such view. It was too pesimist for her taste, while true she not always optimism in any problem, but what Jaune just said is... Too negative 'Well... I guess it mean I only need to cheer him up! As his friend, it my job to help him if he in trouble!' She thought as small smile that filled with determination crossed to her face
"I'm done as well." Blake commented suddenly as she stand, she really feel not hungry after seeing this. Truthfully what Jaune said is very cruel, but it also the truth. She always thought that this prejudice against each other is stupid, right now they have countless Grimm out there that ready to tore them apart and yet... "Don't worry Ruby I'm fine." She said as she notice her friend look, and she is, she really fine "I just want to go to toilet... Stomach problem." Now that is lie, but she not wish to sulk or such thing! She just...
She just want to see Jaune a bit... Observe him more close, this side of him is new to everyone. Perhaps, there some reason why he become like this. A ex-member of criminal like her? It not like she care in first place but she curious
And being Cat Faunus she is... Let just say she at least need to know a bit about him
Ruby appear to not bought it as she roamed her silver eyes to her. But then a bright smile once again appear to her face and she nodded "Contact us through Scroll okay?"
"Sure."
With that, the Faunus walk away, leaving the group who still mulling about Jaune act. She allow her sharp sense to guide her, despite it size, but Beacon Academy place actually not complicated. She will find Jaune without having hard time, she sure of that
And much to herself surprise, she found him, just few minutes after walking. However it not like the way she wanted
"You snapped at them aren't you?"
'That was... Professor Goodwitch voice.'
To normal people, they won't even able to heard the voice, let along recognize it. Even now the only things that make Blake able to heard it is because she trained herself during her time in White Fang despite her status as Faunus that allow her to have sharper hearing sense
She just walking in corridor when she caught the Professor voice, normally she going to ignore it, but what make her stop is the strict Professor voice is so different
She had listen to her few hours ago when she barking at them. Strict, firm and stern would be the best words to describe how the Professor carry herself, and judging by her attitude and behavior, she clearly not someone who into soft stuff
But the tone she just heard... It was very opposite from the one she heard in class moment ago... It filled with softness, one that mother use when chide her children, it was melodic almost like idol voice... Yet, it also bitter... Filled with sadness
"... I'm sorry Miss, I ensure you it won't happen again."
This time, it was Jaune voice. His always nonchalant and stoic voice gone, his tone is contrast to Professor Goodwitch. It was firm, strict and also stern... It almost like voice of trainee that talking to it superior
"You do know you not need to use such formality with me when we alone right?" Glynda voice still soft, but the hint of sadness in there never leaving "Jenny even only call me by my name. You should done that too, I won't mad Jaune."
"I'm sorry but I can't Miss. You already did so much for me and my little sister, the last thing I can do is to respect you as much as I can."
"Then consider this as an order, I want you to mellow yourself a bit when we alone Jaune."
"... If you say so, then... Aunt Goodwitch."
It take everything Blake have to not let out loud gasp. Aunty? Are they related? If it true then... Well, both their hair almost have same color...
"Call me Glynda, Jaune."
"Aunt Gylnda, very well then."
"... Not going to talk further? Heh, always wish to the point huh?" It was clear that the sadness in her voice become more visible, even stupid person can recognize this "Anyway, you snapped at them like that and also more rude than usual... Jaune... Do you by any chance already eat your... Medicine?"
The way Professor Goodwitch spoke medicine... Blake noted that word spoken with venom, a high-degree distaste, one that Human who hate Faunus so much speak. She frowned a bit at the information. Medicine? Does Jaune ill? And the tone Professor Goodwitch also troubling
"Shamefully I admit I... Have yet to eat one of my medicine. Apparently my schedule in this Academy and job as Team Leader seems make me forget to take one."
"... You dislike them that much huh?"
"What kind of living being want to eat that? Even carcass of dead animal better than that. Even until now I still dislike it and will never come to like it for the rest of my life... But it doesn't mean I can't bear it, I already take it for 11 years, I, no longer going to complaint."
"I... See... Then, you can skip class after this."Hb
"? That wasn't necessary Aunt Glynda, I can hold myself pretty well and-"
"Jaune, do I need to remind you what happen when you not take your Medicine in time?"
"... ... No, Aunt, you did not need to... Very well, I will go to get my medicine to calm myself. Thank you."
"Just... Make sure this won't happen again okay? And about being leader... Jaune, you always can talk to me." Glynda voice sounding so weak, so frail that it make Blake questioned does the woman possess another personality?
"... You have your duty Aunt Gylnda, and I have mine. Wouldn't it you who said that as Hunter we have to be Professional?"
"... Hermione will always said family come first. And Uther, no matter how he try to become professional one, will always relent to her..."
"And I agree with my mother, but if it mean being professional will protect my family, then I gladly going to did it no matter how much it will make they hate me. I will take my leave then, we already wasting time enough."
Blake doesn't need to heard anymore conversation. Quitely as much as she can, she pull her back, her eyes roaming to around her to make sure she won't bump to something and make any sudden noise to not alert them
When she sure she out from their range, and joining back with students that walk in crowd, she have so many things her mind
How come Jaune knew Professor Goodwitch? Are they really related? She won't be surprise if they did. Jaune is sick... Ill... Whatever it is, it had gnawing him for long time, eleven years! Half of most his whole live and until now it still not cured... And judging by how they speak, it clear the sickness possibly doesn't have any cure
Pyrrha worried... Its been an hours ever since Jaune leave from the cafetaria. Class already over and now already night, 08:13 PM specifically. In that amount of time there no sign of her Leader, even he absent from class and until now he still did
She tempted to ask RWBY team but decide it probably wouldn't be any good to tell them, only going to make situation become worse, especially with Ruby in there. She doesn't mean to talk bad about her fellow red head, but it was clear to everyone that Ruby is... Kind of worrywart. She already ask to her about Jaune, of course Pyrrha lying and said Jaune just went to take care of something and will return tonight to ensure her
Beside this is JNPR problem. True his Leader maybe close with Ruby than them but they can't always depend on her, they are his team, the one who going to be there for him and even sleep in one same room for damn FOUR years!
"He still not back?"
Pyrrha tilt her head, meeting Ren who clad in his sleeping outfit; simple long blue pant and plain white t-shirt, who just come out from bathroom
"No... Even he not respond to my message." Pyrrha said in slight concern "Do you think something happen to him?" That was possibility, despite their Leader without doubt is strong but even a giant can brought down
"Perhaps. But we knew Jaune is not a fool. Awkward in society he may be, but he not stupid." Ren said firmly, giving a look to Pyrrha "You of all people should know about this, he is your Partner after all. One that jump toward 10 foot giant Death Stalker without any hesitation." He pointed
"True..." Pyrrha still remember that time. When she and Jaune run together, the man briefly turned to see how Nora who distract the giant Nevermore handle situation. When see massive Death Stalker very close to her, he quickly jump with very fast and go tango with the said Grimm without any fear or hesitation
Her Partner and Leader is truly force to be reckoned with
"Where's Nora?" Ren asked as he notice the lack of his partner in the room
"She goes to kitched, she said she want to go take some snack before sleep." Pyrrha informed
"I see."
As if being called, the door of their room opened, revealing familiar orange haired girl. However there difference, for one, the always cheerful girl now have her face turned to pure horror. Panic and terror visible in her eyes that open wider than usual
"Nora?" Pyrrha asked, instantly concerned at the face of her friend
"This is terrible! Pyrrha! Ren!" Nora gasped out dramatically, tears almost leaked out from corner of her eyes
"What's wrong?" Ren asked, a bit worry as well seeing her like this
"I-I went to kitchen and..." She paused, as if her throat become dry suddenly. She give her Partner teary look before she lunged at him "We run out of Pancake!"
Ren not even bother to dodge or move from his spot, he stood frozen when Nora embrace him in deep hug. His worried face scrunch to dull emotion in instant. He knew it would be like this somehow, so he not that surprised with Nora dramatic antic
"Nora..." Ren sighed, small exasperation laced in his voice
"This is bad! There no flour or the ingredients! Which mean there no Pancake for tomorrow! Reeen! How could I went one day without Pancake?!"
Pyrrha meanwhile has her eyes twitched in small irritation. Normally, she going to be rather amused, she admit Nora got her there but now? She worry about Jaune and that antic of her make her upset a bit, she was thinking perhaps Nora bring some bad news about Jaune for moment there!
Another click on the door make the group turned to it and see their Leader finally return after gone for whole day. The man himself still clad in his academy uniform, carrying few plastic with him
"Oh, you all still awake." Jaune said when noticing them
"Jaune!" Pyrrha immediately stand, face confront to mixture of anger and worry "Where were you today?! You not in class and not responding to our call!" She demanded
"Sorry for that. I went to city to buy these." Jaune raise the plastic he carry, face remain nonchalant but there a hint of apologetic in his eyes "As for the class, I already ask permission from Headmaster Ozpin, he said I allowed to get day off today but I will get double class in next time."
Pyrrha scowled, true they not went as far to ask Professor. But at least surely the Headmaster can inform them about this! "Well, at least you can inform us you okay!"
"That will ruin the surprise." Jaune replied simply make Pyrrha looking to the plastic he hold, Nora who on Ren side have her nose twitching
"Pancake?" Nora asked, nose twitching like a police dog
"This one is. I thought you may want some, changing pancake flavor a bit since you maybe bored with pancake academy taste so-"
Whatever he going to said was cutted as he hold the urge to move and counter Nora when she tackled him, engulfing him in deep hug
"My Hero." She gushed in lovely tone as she bury her face to his chest
"Uhh..." Jaune make unsure voice as he look down to Nora who hugging him like there no tomorrow. So he did what he always did when Jenny hug him, rising one hand he give pat to her head "There, there. Here the pancake." He said, giving the plastic who instantly gone, dragged by Nora who flashed to one of table, the box opened and her eyes held spark followed by drool as she staring at the pancake
Jaune only blinked again, that was very fast. Does her Semblance have connection with electricity? That would explain her energetic behavior
"And what are those?" Pyrrha asked, eyes lingering to the other plastic bag
"This? Ah this is cake, for us." Jaune said
"Cake?" Ren blinked
"Well, I certainly read on someone twitter through my Scroll that she celebrating one week after her team formed. So, I ask, why not? In the book also mentioned to always cherish small moment together with your team so..." He then open the box and reveal small cake "This is celebration for a week we been team without any trouble. I had observe other team and noted that all of them have their own problem even if they try to hide it while we not, and I think it worthy to be celebrated." He informed
The JNPR team blinked at their leader explanation, Ren and Pyrrha send another glance to each other before the latter sighed while the first shake his head, bemused smile crossed to his face. Nora meanwhile let out another squeal while chomping her pancake as she looking to her leader with pure adoration
"I already said it before and I will said it again." Ren look to Jaune with exasperated look "You not need to went that far."
"Nonetheless, it for the sake of team, a good team is a happy team." Jaune said firmly
"Yes, but." Pyrrha let out another sigh, and to think she worry about him before. Her Leader and Partner truly unpredictable person "Jaune... What about you?"
"Me?" Jaune blinked "What's wrong with me?"
"You just... Seems kinda off today, is there something wrong? You know you can share it with us right?" Pyrrha spoke softly
Jaune only blinked again, head tilt a bit to one side before he shrugged "Ah, not need to worry about that. Let just say I have bad morning today... A bad dream..." It not technically true, but it half truth, he did have bad dream this morning, a sign that he have to take his 'medicine'
"About?" Pyrrha asked
"My family." Jaune bluntly replied
At that Pyrrha grimaced. Remembering what Ruby said about Jaune family "I-I see..." She not try to pry any further. It clear that she aware maybe she too forward, they just been together only for a week after all
"Anyway, it not something you should be think off." Jaune shrugged as he place the cake in table, slicing part of it and place it in plate before rise it "We have cake to eat now so..."
Ren rolled his eyes but give small nod and smile, Nora happily come to Jaune with pancake in her mouth and accepted the cake while ranting about how awesome their team Leader is
Pyrrha the last one, Jaune noted that she still kinda down and frowned. What with her? Does she worry about him that much? She shouldn't be, not like it going to help him anyway. But like the book said, a happy team is a good team so... How to cheer her up? A small gratitude? That could work
"Hey Pyrrha." Jaune called as he hand her the cake
"Huh?"
Jaune give small smile to her, making the girl surprised as it wasn't often for him to smile like this, during this week Jaune almost never smile! Smirk? Yes, but smile? Maybe only once or twice?
"Thanks for care."
It was lie... He actually doesn't feel any grateful for her. But for the sake of his team, his mission, he will did it without any feeling remorse. And it worked as Pyrrha face brightened, making the atmosphere into better for his team
"Your Welcome Jaune." Pyrrha smiled kindly "If you need help or want to talk, don't hesitate okay? I'm your Partner after all, and we should helping each other."
"Sure. But if it surprise then I have to hide it, it won't be surprise if I told you."
Pyrrha rolled her eyes in annoyance and taking the cake, small smile crossed to her face though. And Jaune only give grunt of appreciation... but he doesn't care. The result is good, and that is the only thing he care about
They live in different World after all... Those eyes that filled with admiration and kindness will change when they see what he truly is... He sure of that, so he never expect much from them, this is only cover mission after all
A Monster will never change... Even if it behave like Human, it talk like Human, it smile like Human, and it cry like a Human, but it will never change... It still a Monster in first place after all... And it will never change how people see him when they see him
And as a Monster, one that has Human skin for years... Jaune perfectly knew how people will react at his existence. Ohh, they may going to tell him it fine, they may going to pity him and will try to help him
But when they see him slaughter and eat... They all will turned their face away...
"Oh, by the way, we going to have trip to Forever Fall later." Jaune informed as he rise his Scroll "It broadcasted by Professor Goodwitch, tomorrow we going to go there to take some samples of red sap."
"Professor Goodwitch said so?" Pyrrha asked while blinking, the Huntress certainly not like a woman who love to spend time in forest... Or indulge in experimenting stuff
"Yes, further information will be told later when we going." Jaune said with nod
"Forever Fall... I hear the view in there is good." Nora said while eating her cake happily "And there sweet red sap!" She beamed, imagining herself eating the sap to her content
"And there also Grimm in there." Jaune added
"Its okay though, despite there Grimm but I heard the numbers not that big, it smaller than Emerald Forest." Pyrrha told the man
"Pyrrha right. We not need to worry too much. I don't know much about the forest other than it have red colored plants mostly but there no mentioning about large number of Grimm in there." Ren said to his leader who put thoughtful face
"Well, if you said so then." Jaune grunted "I guess there nothing to worry about. What worse Grimm exist in there? We already face Death Stalker and win after all."
It was safe to say the trip later would be anything but normal
Wew... It kinda dark in some part but... Well doesn't care. Anyway, this is another chapter! There nothing much in here save for showing Jaune darker personality, all of you saying Jaune too relax and behave like ordinary clueless guy so... Here we go, we delve further into his personality!
And dealing with Cardin. Make no mistake, this won't be the last time you see of him, hahaha! Jaune in here pretty much doesn't care what he did actually. I sure few of you aware of how familiar Jaune talk to Cardin in here! XD
Ehem! Nothing much to say, save for Jaune 'medicine' that mentioned. I won't said anything but like I always said, power won't come without a price.
Next chapter will be going to Forever Fall, and make no mistake there will be small alteration in there! Hahaha! Anyway, this is it for now, I hope you love this chapter! Please Favorite, Follow, and Review
Ja Ne! XD