Welcome back to Guarding Vale: A VPD Story
Ladies and Gentlemen, I'm happy to present to you, the Main Story of Guarding Vale: A VPD Story. It's been a long couple of chapters of dealing with splices of Academy life but now it's time to immerse ourselves in the main plot.
Our first Arc is The Beat. Here we'll follow Jaune and fellow Probie Cardin on their journey to becoming Police Officers proper. Alongside them will be a whole host of characters for them to interact with, both original and canonical. From this point on, the story will begin to intersect with the main plot of RWBY. Stick along for the journey as we see Jaune and Cardin at work.
A note for those of your reading. Aside from the characters, story, and design. A major aspect of RWBY is the music. Now I do love the music of Jeff and Casey Williams but pop isn't what I'm going to be featuring as much. From time to time I will include music selections in bold and italics to play along with the scene. I'll be sticking with that mid 20th century feel so jazz, swing, and rock are going to be all the rage. I can expect Jaune to have some good taste in music.
Anyways, now onto some review responses!
RedDestrobo: Many questions to be raised, but I discussed it with you. Long story short for the readers, aura is simply just something not required by many individuals in the RWBY Universe. In order to maintain Aura one must be in good physical condition. Such as a Huntsman, or in this case a police officer. Semblances don't increase your rank but more or less where you're stationed within the VPD.
simm36: ¡Gracias! Disculpe por usar un traductor, pero no sé español además de palabras simples. Knightshade es una buena nave, sin embargo, dado el manejo de Blake como personaje, siento que es menos viable en el canon que en Fanon.
Monster King: Thank you very much! I will and I look forward to your feedback on future chapters.
Kaze: Thank you very much! As much as I love the main story of RWBY, I adore when writers take the time to flesh out the world as a whole aside from areas touched by the main story. I'm particularly proud of their growth beyond their canonical counterparts.
Shipping wise Silent Knight would definitely raise some alarms. Albeit something in the back of my mind I might only tease with the idea. I actually quite like the idea of Jaune being married to the job. Kudos to you.
DISCLAIMER: I do own a limited edition Pumpkin Pete's Cereal Box signed by Pyrrah Nikos, but I do not own the RWBY Franchise, these characters, or any of the references mentioned here.
Credits to Coeur Al'Aran for the information pertaining to Jaune Arc's Background. Man is the GOAT of Arc Fics.
Location: Eastern Vale Apartments, Apartment B6 [Jaune Arc]
Date: July 6th, 20XX
Time: 5:30
As morning rose over rooftops of buildings across Vale. The sun shining just above the horizon as it vanquished the night which lingered only a few hours ago. The city was starting to wake up from its slumber. Those heading off into the early morning dawn rushed to work. The morning traffic formed along the main roadways, the overpasses filled with bumper to bumper traffic, buses off on their routes to collect their passengers, the underground train system rushing through the tunnel systems below the streets. School teachers, doctors, nurses, construction workers, stock brokers, designers, artists, all moving about as a mass. Such was a Monday morning in the City of Vale.
Although the thought was shattered by the sound of a phone alarm atop his nightstand. Reaching across from his bed he shut it off with a tap of his fingers. Crawling out with a yawn as he hurried to get ready for his first day. Setting the radio to his favorite station as they played a morning tune.
"Heigh-Ho" (The Dwarfs' Marching Song) by The Dave Brubeck Quartet plays.
With the sound of the music seemed to add a step to his stride. Hurrying as he got showered, dressed in normal clothes, and prepared his breakfast in the morning. A simple egg and bacon sandwich with a slice of cheese, coffee, and a banana. Opting to not pack a lunch and purchase it outside. Wolfing it all down he finished off by brushing his teeth and then hurrying out the door of his apartment. Taking the elevator down to the basement garage. Unlocking his Jasmine Bormio, he threw his belongings in and started it up. Locking the door and driving the small compact out of the garage and onto the street. Bound for Downtown.
The streets were lined with fellow commuters shuffling along to the next intersection in their morning dance. Bumper to bumper traffic was not pleasing at all. Leaning back in his seat he couldn't help but moan about the lack of quality drivers in this city. It didn't help that the sun, now rising above the horizon, began to shine its light against buildings. Forcing him to put a pair of sunglasses on as he drove. All too jaded about his present circumstance.
Location: VPD Headquarters | Downtown Vale
Time: 6:44 AM
"New Beginning Part 1" by Andrew Hale plays.
Police Headquarters.
The marble clad building stood before a backdrop of modern skyscrapers, mocking them silently like an old-timer and some meddling kids. Home to the VPD since its construction 100 years after the formation of the VDC. A testament to the resilience of Vale's finest, but to some it's crooked and corrupt. This was going to be his home away from home some nights.
Pulling up to the motor pool gate he showed the guard on duty his ID. After a quick scan the bar lifted and he drove through. Finding a spot to park alongside other vehicles before exiting and heading into the building. Carrying his work bag he passed by officers and station workers as he made his way to the locker rooms. Picking up his laundry uniform from the rack in front before entering.
Looking about he saw other officers who shared the safe shift changing and chatting. Spotting Cardin by his locker he gave a wave to him before approaching his own locker. Changing into his uniform and stowing away all unnecessary articles. As he was adjusting his tie, Cardin walked over with his work suitcase and helmet in hand.
"Need some help with that tie there Jauney Boy?" He said with a smirk.
Rolling his eyes, Jaune straightened it. "No Cardi but thank you for the offer. I have mastered the art of tying a tie since we last met."
"Oh fair enough Master Arc, but if you need help the offer is still there. Unless you want me to call Moore to help you."
"Ah shut up." Jaune replied in a sheepish expression. Though the banter was cut short by the sound of the PA system ringing. Signaling for the 7:00 AM Shift to head to the briefing room.
All the officers inside the locker room dispersed and made their way into the room. A podium at the head of it with a whiteboard behind it. It almost seemed like a classroom but officers seated instead of students. Once the Duty Sergeant entered things got quiet as they let the man speak.
"Good Morning, boys and girls we got a few things on the docket today. First off we got some new faces here. Right from the Academy please meet Officers Arc, Winchester, Henry, and Kilo. Our probationary officers for the next two months. Wave a hand you four."
The Cadets raised their hands. Getting a few greetings from the regular officers before lowering their hands.
"Next item of business, we have reports of everyone's favorite Gentleman Thief making his rounds once more."
The whole room erupted into boos and jeers for the ginger haired thief.
"I know I know the guy stinks. But it seems he's been slowing down. Calling cards have been getting low and the detectives think that he's preparing for something big. So keep an eye out for that. At last we have a concerning growth in dust robberies. Shops all over the city are being hit. Goons grabbing the dust and scramming. We've been able to apprehend most but they don't come armed with knives. These guys are packing so be aware when engaging. Your shotguns should do the job."
The officers all wrote down the notes and began to wrap up the morning brief by hearing their assignments. Some single man cars, most two man cars. When it came to the Cadets, each was assigned to an Officer with a good amount of experience.
"Arc! You'll be paired with Officer Malloy, he's a good man. He'll set you straight, just pay attention and you'll learn plenty."
"Yes, Sir."
"Good, now get, both of you." The Sergeant stated as he went to assign Cardin and the other Cadets.
Officer Malloy turned to Arc, giving a nod to his new charge as he motioned him to head out with him. Jaune complied and exited out of the briefing room with him. They both headed out to the motorpool where their cruiser was. On the way there Maloy sparked up some light conversation with Jaune.
"Seems I got paired with another bright star from the Academy. It's good to meet you Arc. What's your story huh?"
"Well, Sir. I've always wanted to help out people. At first I was a huntsman, but I never went to Combat school. But the Police Department seemed like the best option for me."
"Oh that's fine, though that accent seems to tell me you're not from around here. You from the frontier?" Malloy asked as he signed out the car from the registry.
Jaune piped up at the recognition and nodded. "Yes, Sir. I'm from Ansel, it's a village way out there. Almost on the boonies, at least that's what my Mom says."
"Ansel? That's pretty out there, but welcome to the Vale. Though I suppose you've already been acquainted with her already."
After a few signatures they made their way out to the lot. Walking amongst the cars to their cruiser. Stopping at the one listed as number 12, Malloy loaded his workback into the back along with Jaune's. Turning to the Probie as he held a hand on the car.
"Arc, tell me what this is."
The question seemed out of nowhere, but Jaune answered. "Yes, Sir. It's a Constable Police Cruiser."
Malloy's face hardened as he seemed to grow a few inches as Jaune shrank under the authoritative gaze.
"This 'Police Cruiser' has a 8 cylinder Duster engine giving 426 brake horsepower, accelerating to a top speed of 120 miles an hour with a zero to sixty of 9 seconds. She has a top mounted siren and light system which have 10 various siren options with bullhorn capabilities. Equipped with a CCT enabled radio with emergency bandwidth functions. In the boot you have your kit and shotgun which has a mount in the front of the car. In the center is the laptop with a ticket printer which contains the latest information from Headquarters which is routed to the front mounted camera which analyzes license plates."
"Y-Yes, Sir." Jaune replied sheepishly.
"She's your life insurance, and mine. If you take care of it it'll take care of you."
"Yes, Sir. I assume I'll take a shotgun?"
"Good you catch on quick. Now let's get to it, Arc."
The two hopped into the police cruiser. Malloy started it up and pulled out of the lot. Arc for his part took control of the radio, pulling the microphone and calling the car in.
"Dispatch, this 1-Beo-12, show us on duty."
"1-Beo-12, understood, no bulletins for your area, proceed."
"1-Beo-12,Roger."
Setting the microphone for the radio down Malloy glanced over with a smirk. "Seems that you've studied the handbook well. Looks like I've got myself an educated partner for the next two months."
"Yes, Sir. I didn't go to the Academy for nothing."
Malloy drove out of the lot and began to head down the road, enroute to their Beat area. "Well it's good to see someone as studious as I am. Remembering the things inside that handbook can and will save your life."
The hum of the cruiser came and they drove down the streets and intersections of Downtown Vale. Observing their surroundings and keeping vigilant for anything that might occur.
Location: Downtown Vale
Time: 9:15 AM
They had arrived 45 minutes ago at their designated area. Malloy started off with a prowl around in the cruiser. Pointing out the different areas, streets, shops, and other markers of note. To which Jaune absorbed, taking note in his notepad what Malloy had just stated for future reference.
By the time 9:00 rolled around, it was time to go on foot around the neighborhood. Pulling over to the side Malloy parked the car and pulled the radio mic to his mouth.
"This is 1-Beo-12, going on foot."
"1-Beo-12, roger."
"New Beginning Part 2" by Andrew Hale plays.
Sliding the microphone back into its holder. The two exited their cruiser, fixing their uniforms and affixing their handheld radios to their belts. Closing the doors and locking her up, the two stepped out on their Beat. Walking along the sidewalks. Malloy was a regular in the neighborhood. His usual beat was just a single man car. Though he was slapped on with the Cadet from time to time.
There seemed to lay within the man, a veteran of sorts. Not one of war, but of the streets. An individual who's seen Vale at her best, but most of all at her worst. Cordial to all but always keeping himself restrained and not straying too far from his standards as an Officer. The neighborhood seemed to take kind to him. Giving Jaune the needed leeway to adjust to what was a foreign environment than what he was used to. A local convenience store manager spoke with Malloy as if they were close friends. It did seem that way with how they traded the latest happenings.
"Community outreach, so this is what it's like." Thought Jaune.
The presence of a police officer seemed to ease things in this particular side of downtown. Not like there was any other sort of security, hiring a huntsman would have been too expensive. So why not turn to what your taxpayer lien was going towards. On call 24/7, any day of the week.
"1-Beo-12, 1-Beo-12, respond."
Seems like someone was looking to take up the offer. Reaching to his radio he brought it up to his mouth and clicked the response button.
"1-Beo-12, Roger."
"1-Beo-12, see the woman at the apartment complex located on Langston and Dila, reports of a domestic dispute in a neighboring apartment."
"1-Beo-12, Roger, Code 2 en-route."
Letting off the response button he hooked the radio back to his belt. Seeing Malloy walk over, he'd assume he heard the call on his radio along with his response.
"Alright let's head on over. You take the wheel, I showed you the streets so you should be able to get there on your own." He said as he threw Jaune the keys to the cruiser.
Jaune nodded and followed him to the cruiser. "Yes, Sir." He said enthusiastically.
Location: Sunny Spaces Apartment Complex
Time: 9:21 AM
Arriving at the apartment complex the men stepped out of their cruiser and entered the building. A middle aged woman who was waiting by the ground floor stairs looked at them and walked over.
"Officers! You've arrived just in time, they're still going at it."
Malloy was the first to respond with a nod. "Yes Ma'am, we'll get right on it. Which apartment is it located in?"
"Second floor, second door to the right, number 205."
"Right, Thank you Ma'am."
The two ascended the stairwells which lead to the second floor. Reaching it they walked to the right and stopped in front of door 205. From outside they could hear a man and woman arguing behind the door. It was obvious things were only going to get heated from here. Malloy knocked on the door, loud enough for them to hear it. The argument stopped and the door cracked open slightly at first, then fully opened to reveal a woman. She was red in the face, likely from the embarrassment but also her high blood pressure. Further inside the man, who was likely the Husband sat cross armed on the couch. Both were fuming.
"Oh hello Officers." The woman said as she hissed slightly through her teeth. "How can I help you today?"
"Yes Ma'am, we're responding to a domestic disturbance incident that was called in. May we please enter the premises?"
"Certainly Officers, perhaps you can knock some sense into my brain dead husband over there sitting like a rock." She spat as she opened the door and welcomed them in.
Malloy and Jaune both entered and stepped into the living room of the apartment. Once the door closed the woman walked over to the side opposite to her husband. Crossing her arms furiously as she glared holes into him.
Taking the first steps, Malloy spoke first. "So, could you please explain what happened? One at a time, please."
Now before the wife could answer, the Husband piped up first. He seemed less riled up than his wife at first. Though he seemed a lot weaker in general.
"Officer, there's no need to worry. We were just having a simple argument, like all couples do-."
"Harold J. Mortimer, that was not just a simple argument. You of all people should understand that much."
"Please! Just one at a time. Now could you please explain what happened to Mrs. Mortimer." Malloy said with a steady tone, though his patience was wearing slightly.
"Yes, Officer. Me and my husband were discussing some stuff while I was in the kitchen cooking, he works at home you see. Anyways we started to discuss where we were going to put my Mother in the apartment!"
Harold nodded with a bit of a cross expression. "Mhm, and I brought up that we put her in one of those nice care homes. She is quite difficult at times.."
"Like hell you are, my mother is going to be staying here. Yes she has a short fuse but there is no way I am going to be putting her inside some damp home so she can play the numbers. You know how bad her gambling addiction is, Harold."
"But she's going to bring in that cat of hers! I know he's going to ruin my work room by knocking my equipment over. I work in software Helen, this stuff is incredibly expensive!."
"Yeah and my mother helped fund your equipment and this apartment!"
"She'll just gamble her money out aga-."
"Quiet down, both of you!"
The two turned to the source of the outburst, Malloy turned to and faced Jaune who had beat him to the punch in interrupting the two's spat. Stepping forward from behind Malloy Jaune looked towards the Husband and Wife.
"This is getting nowhere. You two need to start settling this more amicably. Might I suggest the idea of getting some safety measures to prevent this Cat from causing a mess in the house, or putting a limit on your mother's bank account." He said in a softer tone to the two. Doing his best to cool them down and convey an alternative.
"Both of you need to start using some quieter voices. We were able to hear your spat outside the door, and your neighbors can too. We were called to settle a dispute so please, let's table this for now so you two can hammer out what you want in, more quietly. Understood?"
Mr. and Mrs. Mortimer looked at each other after the brief talking through and nodded. Agreeing to the terms laid out by the officer. Malloy looked to Jaune with quite the impressed look on his face. Seeing his Probie take the reins on his first call was a bold move. Though it worked.
"Alright then that settles it. We'll be taking our leave here Mr. and Mrs. Mortimer. Have a good day."
The two were nicely led out of the apartment, the door softly closing. Once outside the two walked down the stairs, the slight tapping of their shoes against the concrete stairs filled the air. They exited the apartment on a hot summer day. Malloy turned to Jaune with a proud face on him.
"Given the way you handled that back there, Arc. You've got the makings of a good negotiator. Beat me to it but they seemed to settle down alright. Good Work."
"Thank you, Sir. I'm glad it turned out like that. Felt like quite the rush, but hopefully they figure out their situation more quietly."
"I hope so too, but you can stop calling me Sir. As much as I like the sound of it, we're working together. So Pat is fine with me if you're okay with being called Jaune."
"Sounds good to me, Pat. Let's get back to work, I'll call it in on the radio." He said as he opened the door to the cruiser and climbed in. Taking the radio microphone and speaking into it.
"1-Beo-12, Code 4 on domestic dispute. Returning to patrol."
"1-Beo-12, Roger."
With both of them now inside they pulled away to continue their patrol of their little section of Downtown.
Location: Downtown Dive Diver
Time: 12:40 PM
"That'll Be The Day" by Buddy Holly and The Crickets plays.
After a few more hours of prowling and walking, both started to build up quite the appetite. Considering they were in the area of a decent diner, Pat called in for a lunch break over the radio to which he was granted one to his delight. Driving the cruiser down the road they pulled into the lot of a small diner. Exiting out, Jaune followed Pat in and took a seat at the counter with him. Taking off their helmets and putting them to the side. A middle aged waitress walked over from the other side of the counter, smiling at Pat.
"Patrick, I'll ask Marvin to get your order ready, but who's this handsome young man?"
"This Darla." He said as he gave Jaune a heavy slap on the back. "Is my probie, Jaune, I'd like you to meet Darla. She's the owner of the diner."
Sitting up straight Jaune smiled and nodded to her. "It's a pleasure to meet you, Ma'am."
"Polite young man, looks like you've struck gold here Patrick. I suggest you ask if you can keep him on as a partner. You could use an upstanding individual like him."
"Darla just the food please, I didn't expect a Vacuoan Inquisition. Oh and Jaune take a glance at the menu and ask whatever you want, it's on me."
"Oh really? That's a bit too much-"
"Kid, you prevented what might have been a nasty divorce. Now order something before I change my mind."
"Alright, Pat."
The Jaune had settled on the patty melt combo with a side of fries and a coffee. Pat had gone for a reuben on rye with a glass of Petesi Soda. Both settled on a slice of pie to finish it off. Once their orders were taken the two got to chatting.
"So Jaune, first days are quite the momentous occasion. I have to ask, has it met your expectations so far?" Pat said as he took a sip from his glass.
Jaune took a short sip from his coffee mug, thinking for a moment then responding. "Oh it definitely has. My instructor hammered into us that police work is not some great and glorious crusade against criminals. But more like holding a great big stick."
Pat snickered a little. "Oh they taught you that quote huh? Well they're not wrong. Just being there can cause a lot of things to happen. Mainly positive things, although there are some negatives."
"We're the killjoys, the narcs, the oppressors. Don't worry, they taught me that too."
"Oh pshhh don't worry about it too much. They're the outliers, not the majority. Most people like having a Police Officer around. Though it seems they like Huntsmen more." Pat said with a bit of venom in his voice. "Not like it matters here in Vale, we're the safest city on Remnant! Bar Atlas."
"And I'm proud to be contributing to that reputation." Jaune said as he raised his mug in cheers.
Darla came around with their plates of food, hot and ready for them to consume before returning to their duties. It was delicious. He didn't know what the cook was doing back there but this stuff was magical. Something to take home and dissect to make his own cooking better. The cook looked like an old man but he moved at lightning speed. Churning out plates to hungry customers. It was awe inspiring.
Time: 12:28 PM
Eating up their slices of pie, things seemed to be turning out well for the most part. A quiet day of patrolling, other areas did have some activity though not in their section. The ideal first day.
Or so Jaune thought. As both of their radios rang out.
"1-Beo-12, 1-Beo-12, 211 (Armed Robbery) at Dust Store located on Barn and Fair."
"1-Beo-12, Roger, Code 3 en-route."
Leaving their half finished pies at the counter they tossed up some money for the bill and dashed out of the diner. Pat climbed into the cruiser and started it up as Jaune grabbed the shotgun from the trunk and sat in the front seat beside Pat.
The cruiser pulled away from the Diner, its sirens blaring as it sped off to the site of the robbery.
Location: The Dust Dump
Time: 12:34 PM
Goons clad in black suits, red ties, and red sunglasses began to empty out the dispensers of dust from inside the store. Filling their canisters up to the brim with each hiss of the valve. They were pressed on time to not get caught by the authorities. But the sound of sirens halted their spree. Gathering what they had taken they had all hauled it into their getaway car parked out front.
"One Hell Of A Time" by Kristofer Maddigain plays.
Just a block away came the police cruiser. Sirens blaring as officers neared the scene. Slamming the doors shut on their car they sped off in a mad dash. Disregarding traffic in order to scare away the officers. Only for the cruiser to follow their path, pulling through the traffic to get close. Inside Pat was giving her all she got. Jaune on the other hand coordinated with the dispatch.
"1-Beo-12, 211 suspects are fleeing in a dark turquoise Moyola Tiara, pursuing suspects down Barn Avenue."
"Roger Beo-12, any available units in the Downtown area, suspect is fleeing down Barn Avenue from Fair Lane."
"Bastards got the sports edition! Hopefully Taylor pulls in, Gilford Street is a few minutes from here."
"I hope so too, I'll keep dispatch updated on our location."
"Keep at it, Kid. I'll try and pit them if I get the chance."
The sound of additional sirens echoed from the left. Revealing to be another car pulling in for the pursuit. The two police cars chased on the little Tiara. Dodging traffic but it seemed to have caught up to it. A speeding SUV that was running a red light pulled in front of the Tiara. The two collided with a loud crash. Wheels screeched as the two came to a stop. The sirens grew near as they pulled to the scene of the crash. The officers exited and drew their weapons as the criminals attempted to flee. Firing back with a few pistols they engaged as they fired their weapons. Hitting their mark as one of the goons went down with a slight electrical shock. The others fell for the high voltage shotguns which knocked them out.
Rushing forward they apprehended the suspects. Cordoning off the scene and directing traffic around it. Waiting for the ambulance to arrive to help the occupants of the SUV.
Location: VPD Headquarters | Downtown Vale
Time: 2:06 PM
"Pat?"
"Yes Jaune?"
"How much more do I have to write?"
"Oh just about two more sheets. You can do it kid, I believe in you."
Sitting at one of the open desks next to booking, Jaune sat hunched over writing up reports on the incident. Pat stood by as he supervised him and his work. Helping when needed. Having written these before Pat had been done faster than Jaune who was just now coming to terms with the joys of paperwork.
From the incident report, the weapon discharge report, to booking the suspects, to inventory of the dust from the robbery, all the way down to the amount of ammunition he used. It felt tiring. And he was only about 3 hours away from being let off duty.
Just coming in from the breakroom, Cardin followed along with his partner. Glancing over to see Jaune he murmured something to which the senior officer nodded. Cardin walked over to Jaune by the desk and smirked.
"Jauney Boy!" He said with a hearty tone. "Heard you got into a bit of a shootout. You alright? Didn't get shot up now?
Looking up from the paper Jaune chuckled and shook his head. "No but I was able to get one of the guys, he's in one of the holding cells with the other fellas."
"Still has to be a big thing. A police chase and a shoot out on your first day, I'd consider it lucky."
"Yeah but that means filling out all of this paperwork too for the first time." Lifting up the stack of finished papers he placed them back down. "Don't suppose you'd like to do all of this?"
Shaking his head he raised his hands in defense. "Nooo thank you. I'll do all that when I actually get into a shootout like you."
The two shared a brief chuckle before Cardin looked at his partner. "Looks like I gotta split, hey you want to grab a drink after? Nothing heavy, just a first day celebration sort of thing."
"Sounds fine, I'm in. See you later." Jaune said with a wave of his hand.
Turning back to his work, Jaune took in another deep sigh as he dove back in. Wishing 2 hours would fly by sooner or later.
Time: 5:00 PM
Inside the changing rooms, Jaune got back into what he wore this morning. Ever since leaving the Academy he had a whole new perspective on how to dress. Leaving his Pumpkin Pete hoodie and jeans at home for a pair of khakis and a short sleeve button up. Something that could work almost anywhere. After packing his belongings and hanging his uniform on the laundry rack. Jaune headed out to meet Cardin by the lot.
Cardin didn't have a car, opting for public transport and a folding electric bicycle. So it was Jaune that was going to be driving to the bar or club they were bound for.
"So Cardin, where are we headed?" Jaune sat as he opened his trunk to allow the bicycle to be placed in.
Carefully placing the bike in he put his work bag inside as well. "Oh this nice place me and my partner saw on patrol. Had a 390 and had to drag him out and put him in the tank. Think you might like the place too."
"Does sound quite inviting if drunks are the norm there." He said with a snicker. "But do they have good food?"
"Don't know, but they must be checking it up afterwards, this place has got a good rep in the area. So it must be good."
"Let's get going then, the night is young and we got to work in the morning."
The two hopped into his Bromio and hurried off to the restaurant Downtown.
Time: 4:10 PM
Stopping at a red light, Jaune tapped his fingers against the feels. Waiting for the time to tick down. To the left of him set Cardin, reading something on his scroll intently.
"So, how's Alice?"
Glancing up from the screen he replied. "Oh she's doing great. Sent me her first letter after entering the frontier. She even sent a little flower and a mint in the envelope too."
Jaune smiled, shaking his head at the image in his mind. "Oh you lucky bastard. You've got yourself a bonafide keeper that's for sure."
"Sounds like you're pretty jealous there, Jaune? Need some help on hooking up? Got a whole list here to help you out-"
"Nope! I'm fine Cardin! Just waiting for the right opportunity." His expression read embarrassment to a high degree. Though who could blame him.
"Oh fret not Jauney Boy, I can tell that you might have a chance tonight. Gods willing."
"Not helping my case here, Cardin." To which came a snicker from the ginger haired boy.
Location: The Griffin's Lair Bar & Tavern
Time: 5:20 PM
"Satin Doll" Live by the Oscar Peterson Trio 1963 plays.
The joint was warm and cozy. All the things you'd expect out of a name like The Griffin's Lair. Wood lined the floors and furnishings of the tavern. Giving the scene a very vintage feel to it. Something out of the last century. Inside what seemed to be old timers were having heated debates on the news of the day. Others were shooting darts to the side, pints in hand as they had themselves a ball. In a couple of booths, good friends seemed to chat the night away. Loosening their ties and collars for a much needed respite. On a stage to the further side of the room was a small band. Playing quiet and fitting tunes for such a venue that made Jaune melt into a puddle of happiness.
Home Sweet Home.
Cardin led him in towards the counter. A man at the bar stood cleaning a mug til he saw Cardin. Raising a hand to him with a smile. "Ah Officer! Good to see you again. Thank you for this morning but I assume you're not here on business."
"Yes, Sir. Two pints of ale, please." He said as he sat himself down onto an open stool.
Sitting next to him Jaune rested against the bar. Looking around. "Also, do you have any food here?"
"Of course of course, anything for Vale's finest. Menu card pile is over to your right and I'll set you two up. Just write what you want on the back of the menu and I'll send it to the kitchen." He said as he waltzed over to the other side of the bar to the taps.
Glancing over the menu the two decided on some simple appetizers and burgers. Agreeing to split the bill at the end or perhaps open up a tab for frequent visits were surely ahead of them.
Two glasses slid down the wooden bar, rotating slightly as they both found themselves right in front of them. Pinpoint accuracy with the slide. Turning to the bartender he gave a wink before taking their menu card to the back without a single word. The experience felt magical.
Time: 5:40 PM
A ring came from the kitchen. A bit of clamoring clamoring occurred till the door opened and a waitress stepped out of the kitchen. Carrying with her a tray with plates that she dished out to some of the patrons of the bar. A bunny faunus, with brown hair, brown ears, and hazel eyes. Everyone in the tavern seemed to warm up to her presence. The old timers smiled like kind grandfathers to her. Approaching the bar she looked to the plates left on her large tray and rested it on the counter.
"You two order the fries, rings, and burgers?" She asked with a questionable look.
Jaune nodded. "Yes Ma'am. We did."
She nodded and smiled, grabbing the plates and setting them down in front of the two. Taking her tray back. "Enjoy you two." The waitress then walked off to the kitchen, passing through the door.
Cardin slowly turned his head to Jaune. A large toothy grin formed on his face, the schemes in his head brewing and simmering to Jaune's horror. To which he immediately shook his head, dismissive of the suggestion.
"No, I want to try and do this the traditional route. Besides, she probably deals with this on a daily basis, not to mention she likely already has a partner."
"Oh come on now what's the harm in trying?"
"Cardin, I want to come back to this place without looking or feeling awkward with her. So please, let's just settle down."
"Where's that bursting charisma that I saw a few months ago? Don't tell me you've gone soft now."
"No it's nothing like that. I-.. I guess I just want to meet the girl, that's all."
"That's harder now than ever, Jaune, you're looking for a fairytale in the middle of a city. Not a lot of luck there."
Jaune took a sip from his glass before replying. "Well I can still keep on dreaming. Besides you and Alice had a buildup straight out of a romance comedy. Had us all running and placing bets to see if you'd finally notice."
"I yield, anyway let's get to eating. I'm starving and that burger isn't going to eat itself."
"Right then."
And so the night went on. Good food, good music, good drinks, and the non-stop teasing from Cardin.
Time 8:07 PM
The night went on. After another glass or two, the two saw the clock. Knowing that the next morning would be absolute hell if they went any further, they called it off. Calling in the bill they discovered that the beer had not been included. The owner's gratitude for dealing with their drunk problem. Leaving only the food which they split.
Getting up they both headed out, though Jaune took a glance at the tavern before they left. Catching a glance from the waitress who gave a smile to him. He lingered by the door as he gave a nod in return before exiting with Cardin. Outside Cardin grabbed his bike from the back of the car and sped off. Waiving him off as he climbed into his car and drove back to his apartment.
Location: Eastern Vale Apartments, Apartment B6 [Jaune Arc]
Time: 9:30 PM
After getting home and getting a good shower, it was about time for him to sit down and hammer out a letter for his mother. In a way it served as a journal. Something for him to reflect upon after a long day. It would be good to end it like this. Though he'd know that on certain nights he'd be too tired to bother. Sitting by his desk he turned on his desktop and got to typing.
Dear, Mom
Just got back home from my first day. Lots of things happened that I never would have expected to happen. From a couple arguing to a police chase and shootout. It was intense.
Before you ask, yes I'm alright. I didn't get hurt, but the suspects we apprehended did. They were robbing a dust shop in our area. Turns out these types of crimes are growing in the city. Along with shipment robberies outside the city. Prices for dust are starting to rise, wishing they'd go down a little. Hopefully you and Dad are alright, along with my sisters. It feels like yesterday that I was at home playing video games or helping in the vineyards.
Thank you again for this opportunity, and I won't let you guys down.
Love,
Jaune
Clicking send he sent the email through the CCT network. Giving a sigh of relief before he readied himself for bed. Later climbing in and falling dead asleep. Dreaming about things to come in Vale.
A new beginning for Jaune Arc and we're only touching the surface of what I've got planned. The Beat arc will involve some typical cop stories, some taking inspiration from other forms of media. If you spotted some of the influences in today's chapter, bully for you. In a sense it will be mundane, but I will wrap around things that'll surely get your thinking caps on.
If you were able to figure out who our brown eyed waitress is then keep that to yourself. But I'll be signing off for now, the Holiday Season is now upon us and boy am I going to rest easy from finals. I wish you all the best and thank you for sticking on with this story.
A Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
Stay tuned for more Guarding Vale: A VPD Story