Welcome back to Guarding Vale: A VPD Story
WOW it has been since we last saw each other. I hope you all had a happy holiday and great start to your new year. I apologize for the delay in this chapter. I caught the winter blues, and I couldn't find the joy in writing as much. But after rewatching one of my favorite Cop Shows and getting back into RWBY via Fixing RWBY. I have reawakened by joy of writing.
So, in the spirit, this chapter is! A day off. Yeup, just a day off for our hard-working Jauney. Next chapter will be another doozy so watch out for that. I hope you'll all like it. Anyways…
Onto some review responses!
Monster King: Thank you again and I will.
ReDestrobo: I was a little confused, but Jaune and Pat did encounter an individual with Aura. This person being a former associate of the Spider would likely need to have it in their line of work.
The Department from the Academy is trained to deal with individuals with or without Aura. But no criminal is the same, not to mention their aura reserves. But if the regulars in blue can't handle a particular individual, or a group of them. That's why they have the Special Operations team or SWAT.
When it comes to Jaune and Miltia, I wanted him to encounter not just a Spider, but one he's met before. To talk about the toughness of the job to someone who's on the receiving end. Though he only knows her as Miltia. She took some care to not reveal her last name in Chapter 4: Fascinating Furlough. A lot of trouble could have come from that.
Anyways, thank you very much! I look forward to writing more chapters.
Simm36: Me disculpo por usar un traductor. Muchísimas gracias. Me alegro de que disfrutes el cambio de escenario de Jaune entre sus otras alternativas en el Fandom.
Cuando se trata de sus capacidades, la capacitación adicional siempre está abierta para los oficiales que trabajan. Lecciones adicionales en nuevas técnicas, tácticas, factoides y, sobre todo, combate. Al mejorar sus habilidades de combate, puede incluso ganar una medalla por puntería.
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: Harbor District | The Dockside Mug
Date: Friday, July 24th, 20XX
Time: 9:27 AM
The joy of waking up with absolutely no responsibilities was immaculate.
Add on that it was Friday, only made things sweeter. He and Pat "had saved up their two days off for a nice double header like this. Sleeping in beyond his usual wakeup time he felt a lot more rested, despite the two hour difference. Looking in to savor the day, Jaune decided to go out for breakfast before going about the day. Sliding into a local Diner which sat a few blocks away from the water's edge. And there he was, enjoying a plate with all the fixings and a hot mug of coffee. Quiet pop music playing in the background as other diners ate.
Looking down at his scroll on the table, he went about reading the daily news. Scrolling past articles on the app he used. From speculation from Tuesday's armed madman to White Fang attacks outside of the city. Though today he was glad to be relieved of the duty of worrying about all that. Now he was just a regular guy in plain clothes. Plain old Jaune Arc. But that begged the question.
What the hell was he going to do for the rest of the day?
Staring down his plate he tried to grasp some sort of answer from the grouping of bacon, beans, eggs, hash browns, sausages, tomatoes, and toast. It didn't help as much as the beans were sliding. Into the gaps between the hashbrowns and the bacon. Glancing back up he looked at a TV hanging in the corner of the Diner. A set of commercials were running for department stores within the city. Maybe it was time for him to treat himself to something nice. He had been saving some money up for his own private wants. And it seemed like just the day.
Going down on his breakfast, he decided to think about what he could get for himself. Clothes? Easy enough answer, winter was coming and so he could get a new jacket. Maybe ask his parents to send some of his clothes from back home. Something a little more expensive? A new video game, some headphones, a new guitar? It didn't sound too bad. Though he would have to see what they had, and what he could afford.
With his mind now settled on a "Jaune" day, he returned back to his plate with a smile. Continuing to imagine on what he could do that day.
Location: Harbor East Station
Time: 10:09 AM
Deciding against driving, saving himself the headache of dealing with downtown traffic and parking. Jaune opted for the Underground. Vale's vast and expansive subway system which touched every hotspot in the city and out into the sprawling suburbs on the edge. It serviced millions coming in and out of the city. One of the many prides of Vale, it stood as a testament to the ingenuity and tenacity of the City and Kingdom.
Heading down deep into the station from the stairway, he came to the turnstiles where people scanned their passes and scrolls to enter. Taking out his wallet he retrieved his Police ID which could be used as a free rail pass. One of the many perks provided by the Department. Joining the small queue for a turnstile he scanned his pass and went through the bars. Heading down the platform for the Westbound train.
He'd had to take another train after this to connect to the downtown line. Fairly excited considering, that he never took the Underground that often during the Academy. Cardin always knew the right trains, the right times, and the stuff to avoid at all times. It saved their time and money but now Jaune was going to navigate this alone. However, his scroll's map function could easily route a plan, so it wasn't that much of a problem.
The station was lined with small white tiles. With the lights it made the whole place light up like the morning. Not a single area was cast in shadow, except the tracks. Beside him, waiting at the platform were others waiting for the train. Some anxiously as if they needed to get somewhere on time, while others were cool as cucumbers. But a familiar rumbling of cars down the line got everyone's attention. A blur of red, white, and blue came by and stopped. A booming recorded voice over the PA speaking as the doors opened.
"Mind the gap. Mind the gap."
As some passengers exited, many entered into the cars. Jaune was able to snag himself a seat near the doors. Settling in he grabbed his scroll and began to browse an app. A beeping sound from the platform sounded off as the doors closed. A hiss and a lurch forward came after as the train departed down the tunnels.
Swiping through the app on his scroll, Jaune produced a mangled pair of wired earbuds. Hissing silently at the knot of wires before untangling them. Perhaps he should buy himself some wireless buds. Another possible outcome from today's self-gratification. Glancing about the car, other people were in a similar state of solitude. Reading the morning paper, books, magazines. Some taking a brief nap before their next stop.
The Underground served all and took all to where they needed to go. And Jaune wanted to go downtown. A recorded voice on the speaker came on and announced the next station. From pitch black came the brightness of the station. The train slowly coming to a stop before the doors opened. Rise and repeat as passengers entered and exited. Looking to the doorway an elderly woman came in. Jaune stood up from his seat and offered it to her. To which she kindly thanked him as the train departed the station once more.
Standing and holding onto the handrails. He continued to count down the stations till his stop.
Location: Downtown Vale | Shopping District
Time: 10:59 AM
Emerging from the Underground, he was met with the looming shadow of the buildings that surrounded the area. Along the street were rows of designer shops. Big names and large brands. Beside them department stores which catered to everyone's desires. Glancing at his scroll for a moment he looked back up and went about on his walk to one of the stores in the area. Passing by were customers with bags containing their treasured goods, chatting along with their companions, or sticking to themselves.
Just coming up the street was a police cruiser. On the prowl in this high traffic area for any thieves looking to make an easy nab at shoppers. There were likely more on food inside the department stores along the street. All keeping the peace in a still tense city. Most places had gotten a lot more beefed up in security as of recent. Sparked by the incident earlier in the week. However, things seemed to of simmered down in the shopping district.
Coming round the corner Jaune headed up the street, seeing ahead of him the signage for the store he was looking for. Hershey's. The premier shopping store in the city of vale. The oldest in the area and with the most stock than any other. Upon approaching the store, the shriek of a woman's voice came from behind him. Following the turned heads of others he saw a usual sight. Some purse snatchers nabbing what looked to be some expensive items from some unsuspecting individuals. Rushing over to the scene Jaune quickly hurried over. Calling out to them.
"Stop, Police!" He yelled as he bolted over to the pair of thieves.
Only they responded by quickly dashing off to a car that was parked beside the sidewalk and jumping in. A driver was already inside and pulled away fast from the curb, speeding down the road. Followed by the sirens of a s that pulled a corner and began its pursuit. Jaune motioning to the car and waving to reassure them. They carried on while he went to deal with the startled shoppers. Withdrawing his wallet ID and scroll he turned to the two women who seemed dazed.
"Excuse me, Ma'am? If you'd like to move to the side here, I'll take your statements."
The two nodded, one responding for them. "Yes, Officer."
After guiding the two to the side of the building. He opened up the notepad section of his scroll. Readying himself to type down the details.
"Could I get your names and ID, please?"
"Peach, Priscilla Peach." One responded.
"Ally Alderman." The other responded."
They both withdrew their ID's and handed them to Jaune. Reading them over and typing down the details he nodded and handed them back to the two. Typing a few more details in before asking further.
"Alright then, could you please detail what were the contents of those shopping bags?"
Miss Alderman huffed at the question. "And why would you need to know that?"
Giving a plain look Jaune responded. "Ma'am, we need to identify the contents in order to properly document them in our report and furthermore return them back to you without anything missing."
"I- I understand. Well in my bag I had gotten myself some new clothes from Hershey's. Some Layton Vice shirts and socks."
"In mine I had a new bag and some perfume from Carriage. Officer is there any chance we'll be able to get our items back?" Miss Peach asked concerningly.
"Yes, Ma'am. Hopefully those officers were able to apprehend them. Though we will need to take those items with us to the station to take them down as items in the report. But once we're done, you're free to collect them when you're available." Checking his watch, he looked at the time. "Which shouldn't be too long from the time they're booked so I'd give it about 2-3 hours."
The two looked to each other with a more relaxed expression. Which helped ease Jaune's own fears of an uppity citizen trying to pin it against him and the other officers. Even more assuring was the sight of the same cruiser coming down the opposite side of the street. It made a U-turn and pulled up alongside the curb. Two occupants were in the back and two officers exited. One stood by the passenger side, keeping the thieves on guard while the other approached Jaune. A familiar ginger headed guy with a grin a mile wide.
"Jaune! I didn't know you were working undercover."
"I wasn't, it's my day off Cardin."
The two laughed and shook hands. It had been a few days since the two had last hanged out. Work likely tiring them both out.
"So I assume you got something down from the victims?" Cardin said as he took out his notepad.
Jaune nodded and took out his scroll. "Yeup, all on here. Along with the items in the bags."
"Fantastic work, I suppose they should be paying you overtime huh? But I suppose you'll be paid anyways once I put you in the report." He said as he began to write down the information.
"Thank you for that. I was thinking of buying something at Hershey's today. Y'know, something for me for all the challenging work I do."
"Yeaaah I hear you. Got myself a new computer. Runs like a dream compared to the old beat up I got. What about you?"
"Alas I haven't the slightest clue. I suppose it'll come to me in time. But for now I'll just walk about and see what they have."
Shrugging, Cardin wrapped up his notes for the report at the station. "Well thanks for your help Jaune. Oh, and before I go, you got tomorrow off, right?"
"Yeah?"
"How's about we head out on the town tomorrow. A little club hopping couldn't hurt. Besides we'll finish it off at the Griffin's. It's open mic night so they'll be something to see."
"Count me in, I didn't know what I was going to do tomorrow but it sounds like I've got something. Just send me a call in the evening."
"Gotcha, anyways we've got to get these creeps back to the station now. Take care, Jauney Boy." He said with a tip of his helmet before heading back into the cruiser with his partner. Taking off for Headquarters.
Turning back to the woman he gave a nod of his head before heading to the department store. Getting back to not doing any police work for the day.
Location: Hershey's Department Store
Time: 11:34 AM
"Light and Easy" by Harry Rabinowitz
Entering the glamorous department store, Jaune felt a rush of air hit him. The interior of the department store was at a steady cool temperature compared to the outside world. The interior felt something outside of it too. Vintage art deco displays presented the latest products and designs. The newest perfumes clashing with olden styles from the last century. It was the charm that Hershey's had. He had only last been here during a family trip for a holiday party at his aunt's place. Here was the very place where he got his first guitar. A beloved instrument which he left at home due to the uncertainty of the job ahead of him.
But now he was here to buy whatever he deemed fit as a self-gratuity present for himself. With the whole store to browse he got to looking. The first floor was women's clothing and accessories. Heading to the grand escalator heading to the floors above he looked at the registry. From the second floor onward was what he was looking for. Stepping on after letting another go ahead of him, he rode it to the second floor before stepping off. Arriving at men's clothing and accessories he glanced over at the more contemporary designs. Some of which made him question a lot of things. Turning away he went for the business casual section of the floor. Browsing through brands and designs to find something to peak his interest.
Flannel? No he had plenty from home. Dress shirts? He could use the spares he had for his uniform. Jackets? The weather was getting colder and a jacket wouldn't do any harm. Stepping over to the large selection set for the colder months ahead, he began to browse through. Most of the big names made the usual wind breakers and outdoors jackets. Though nothing seriously practical and usable all the time. Alas he couldn't find what he was looking for. Much less at a cheaper price than they had here. And so he passed of clothing and headed to the third floor.
Home to more technology and other fine hobby items. The Third Floor felt like a wonderland. The latest things in stock from video games, computers, sports equipment. Everything that one's heart could desire. Jaune knew he needed to get something from this floor. But what it was, he couldn't put his finger on exactly. So he began to stroll about the isles. Peering into glass cabinets at new games, the latest computers and individualized parts. Virtual reality glasses that could connect to your scroll and oh so much more. He thought to the earlier idea of getting some new wireless earbuds. The idea was on the table but he wanted to see what else was available.
Strolling across the departments he came across the Music department at Hershey's. There both kids and adults browsed around at the latest albums and the instruments in stock. Coming from the speakers from a music video display was a top charting album for the younger crowd. "Mirror Mirror" by Weiss Schnee was selling like hotcakes. The display already had a few empty racks but there was still plenty for the taking. The lyrics seemed somber and the video seemed to emphasis it. The message was shared by a lot of similar folks, so it was no wonder it did well. However, albums weren't what attracted him. But the expansive instrument wall which lined the department. From stings, woodwind, and brass all on display.
Walking over to the wall of guitars he glanced up as it stretched all the way to the ceiling. Jaune was, in all respects, a decent guitarist. His mother had taught him and a few of his sisters on the sole guitar in their house. Though the more musical of which was Saffron he still loved music. Though with the guitar safely back at home he felt a lingering. A real itch to hold one in his hands and just strum a chord or two. His awe inspired gaze upon the wall was noticed by a clerk, a middle-aged man who held his hands behind his back as he approached him.
"I see you're lost in the majesty of it all?" He asked politely, a keen smile on his face.
Turning around, Jaune gave a nod to the clerk. "Yes, Sir. It all looks amazing."
"Well, would you like to try one out? I can bring down any that you'd like for a test."
"Yes, please." Jaune said in earnest, glancing back to the wall. "So which ones are the acoustics?"
"Yellow tags, Son. Eye any that you like?"
"That one, the blond one next to the cherry rose."
Grabbing the ladder, the clerk nodded and propped it up. Stepping up to the guitar with a smile. He picked it off the display rack and slowly stepped down with it.
"A Super 400, good eye. The wood grain on her is really nice. Now careful there. Once you've got it you can take a seat on one of the stools there and strum a bit."
Reaching up Jaune retrieved the guitar and held it gently. Looking at the material he smiled at the sheen. It was clean and without dust. Cradling it he walked over to a stool and plopped down. Getting a feel for the threads and the length of the neck he tried a chord. Feeling it was slightly off key he adjusted the tuning pegs before strumming. Smiling at the chord as he let it reverberate a little bit. He went through a set of practice chords to get a feel for the instrument. It sounded beautiful, it felt responsive to the touch, and it was just the right size. The clerk stepped down from the ladder and walked over with a greater smile on his face.
"Seems that you've found true love there. Go one and strum a few. It's a change from hearing kids playing off key all the time."
"All The Things You Are" by Chris Whiteman (YT)
Nodding in response, Jaune began to roll into a cover of an old standard. Plucking away at the strings as the music echoed out from the guitar. Doing his best to remember the beginning melody. It was slow but it felt quite right. The slightly impromptu performance drew a small crowd in the music department. A couple of looks from others browsing around but most came from the recognition of the piece. Once he was done he smiled and looked to the clerk.
"I think I have, how is it?" Jaune asked with an elated expression.
"40,00 Lien."
Jaune choked hard on that response. He could buy two brand new economy cars for that kind of money. Staring at the guitar he felt slightly put off by it. At best he could attempt to put a down payment for it, but the bank wouldn't be too happy to see such a large payment.
Hesitating, he asked politely. "Are there, perhaps, any other cheaper options available?"
The clerk chuckled and nodded. "Don't worry kid, there are and with almost the same quality. Yeah, she's a beautiful guitar but the price tag's the reason why no one's picked her up yet. You're not the first to be lured in, but not the last."
"Alright then, show me the cheaper options please." Jaune said as he handed the guitar back to the clerk.
Time: 11:53 AM
After signing the merchant's receipt, Jaune smiled as he was given his copy. Having gone for a more economical option, which also came with a limited deal to get a free speaker. It didn't bother him too much that it was electric. It was just something new to learn on top of what he knew. Now with both items now set to be delivered at his home. It opened up the rest of the day to enjoying life to the fullest. He walked down the street, glancing around at stores and the people that walked in the opposite direction.
With his self-gratuity present out of the way, it was time to explore. Walk the beat, without having to do anything at all.
So, after coming off of the main shopping road, he made a turn round the corner and headed off down the street. Unaware of someone trailing a couple of steps behind him.
Location: The Lotus Garden
Time: 12:30 PM
Quiet and calming music played throughout the restaurant. Red lanterns lit the room as waiters went around with steam carts with metal steamer baskets with food. The Mistrali restaurant felt something far beyond the usual food he ate. Though he couldn't help but eat with delight as he took in the flavors. His family had been to Mistral on vacation before and the food had been a well-placed memory in Jaune. Only when they returned did they have the frozen manufactured variety from the general store. But they paled in comparison to the real, fresh, genuine article.
As he ordered some more dumplings. A figure approached his table for one, tapping it to gain his attention for a moment. Looking up he saw someone he never thought he would be seeing again.
"Miss Lavender?"
"Officer Arc, funny meeting you here." The reporter said with a smile.
Jaune chuckled and nodded in response. "Mhm, it is. I don't suppose it's your first time here. Seeing as you're from here."
"No I've been here before, it's one of my favorite places to eat. Anyways since you're here, do you mind if sit here? If you don't mind someone joining, you."
Giving it some thought, he shook his head. "No, I don't mind at all. Take a seat Miss Lavender."
Lisa pulled a chair from the table and took a seat. A waiter came over and handed her a tea cup and a pot of tea. Walking away after she thanked him. Turning to Jaune as she sipped her Tea. She glanced at her scroll for a moment but turned back to Jaune.
"So, Officer, or should I just say Mr. Arc. I presume you and your partner have recuperated after the Underground attack?"
"Jaune is fine, Ma'am. I'm not my father but yes me and Officer Malloy have healed up. We were back on the job the next day, albeit on a reduced load to allow his aura to fully recharge."
Placing down her teacup she nodded. "That's wonderful. The report and CCTV video showed quite a lot, although the audio was absent or slashed out due to breaks in the feed, gunfire, and trains. Just an off the record remark, what did the guy say?"
Pausing before answering, Jaune pondered upon her question. She was a reporter, not just any reporter. She was Lisa Lavender. The TV sleuth who was able to unveil corruption. With, or without police co-operation. Putting the obvious together, Jaune gave a small sigh before responding.
"Miss Lavender, what's your angle here?"
Seeming unphased, Lisa shook her head and smiled. "Angle? There's no angle here, Mr. Arc. If that's what you're implying."
"I'm not so sure with that. This is like something I've read in detective novels. It certainly doesn't feel like a chance meeting." Jaune replied, still holding firm onto his suspicions.
The reporter dropped the smile but nodded. "This rookie isn't as blind as the others. What's my angle, Arc? Well, isn't it obvious. It's the crest on that badge of yours. That's what I'm after."
"The Department? You're going to take on the department?" Jaune asked with a more shocked expression. "That's why you want to talk?"
"Mr. Arc, I like to keep tabs on a lot of things the police do. It's why I have a shaky relationship with them at times. However, recent events have pushed things into motion to properly take down certain rotten apples. And I'd like your help." Raising her fork, she stabbed down onto a dumpling before continuing. "I'm going on the hunch, that the gunman was more than he appears. That he had somethings to say that were purposely left out to save a few hides. Am I wrong, Mr. Arc?"
"No, but why me? Couldn't you have gone to Malloy for this?" Jaune asked still questioning her motives.
"Ah but there in lies your current situation within the Department. You're still new, just over two weeks new. You haven't gotten deep into the web within the Department. Nothing but a good honest officer doing his job. Nothing to pin against you. Officer Malloy is a fine man, but to involve him means putting a lot a risk. A wife and kids here in the city, but you? Your family is safe away in the boonies, mother, father, and your seven sisters."
"You wh-" Jaune stopped in his tracks as she spoke. "How do you know about my family."
Lisa smiled and devoured a dumpling. Licking her lips and wiping her mouth with a napkin. "I'm a journalist, Mr. Arc. I've got a set of tricks up my sleeve. Now are you going to help me and tell me what that guy was saying?"
A silence came between the two of them. Lingering till Jaune opened his mouth in response. "He said, he had a lot of things to spill… Something about Malachite and the Web and the department. Nothing specific."
Nodding she seemed to relax slightly. Nodding some more as she took a sip of her tea cup. "Alright then, Arc. Less than what I was expecting but that's a good start. Now if you'd like to help me more, you can keep your eyes and ears open for anything. Just anything for me to bite on that may lead to something bigger. Got it?"
Jaune nodded. He didn't like his position one bit. As much as he wanted to help do the right thing, Lisa Lavender's way of having it done didn't seem very legal. Much less safer though she likely has waded in far deeper waters than he could of ever known to get the information she had. But in the end, if she was going after corrupt officers, he didn't have many issues with that.
"Do you mind if I sit on it for a day or two? This is some heavy stuff if you don't mind me saying. It's only my second week on the job and I'm already being offered to be an anonymous informer." He said with a wariness in his voice. Scratching the back of his head with a hesitant expression.
Nodding understandingly Lisa replied. "No it's alright, I can understand your hesitations. It's not easy to commit to something like this. I'll leave you my card and you can call me whenever you're ready."
Sliding the card over Jaune took it and pocketed it into his breast pocket. The rest of the meeting ended quietly as a few lighthearted questions were exchanged. Lisa departed first, giving Jaune a polite handshake before exiting. He then left with mixed feelings about the whole thing. It left him with many questions and doubts. What could this even lead to? Would anything of substance be done? What would happen to him if things went south.
It'd take him some time, but he would have to come up with an answer for it. Staying silent wasn't going to accomplish anything.
Location: Vale Historical District | Courthouse Gardens
Time: 2:00 PM
Wrapping up the end of the day before he took the train back home, Jaune decided to go about the largest park in the city. The Courthouse Gardens were a magnificent display as lines of flowers and ancient hedgerows crisscrossed across the park. King Oswald had built the gardens long ago as a love letter to his then wife. Upon his death and the dissolvement of the Monarchy, the gardens were open to the public and maintained by the City. The neighboring buildings delegated to the courts. Giving the park its name.
All along the paths he saw the classical scenes of mid-summer. Kids at play, painters, tourists, picnics, and lovers together. It all felt like something on a painting or a postcard of sorts. All while a summer breeze rustled through the leaves, cooling things off. It led him to the large manmade pond where people gathered to converse, sail small toy boats, and feet the wildlife which swam within it's waters. Keeping to himself he found himself a quiet bench. Sitting down he eased himself down with a sigh. Finding the weather and the scene just, perfect.
It dragged him out of the mood that had caught him earlier. He waived off the thought of Lisa Lavender and her offer to focus on enjoying what was in front of him right now. Leaning his head back and closing his eyes he let the warm sun hit him. Enjoying the moment as a thought came into his head.
"I wonder what tomorrow will be?"
Location: The Griffin's Lair
Date: Saturday, July 25th, 20XX
Time: 7:09 PM
Boy it had been quite the evening.
The day's chores were done easily enough. But hanging with Cardin had been quite the ride. Hopping from bars and clubs all around the downtown area. Even going to one of the more, exotic, establishments in the city. Which Cardin got a laugh out from Jaune's squirming nervousness with scantily clad women. While he sipped a drink, remaining loyal to Alice, who had a hand in this hilarity.
The night ended at the Griffin's Lair. Their second home away from home aside from Headquarters. Greeted by the Owner who was present that night. Mr. Darlington was a boisterous man with a welcoming attitude. Friendly to any who entered regardless of if they were a regular or a stranger. But tonight, was one of those many special nights. Open mic for anyone who dared to step onto the stage and get on with an act of theirs. Comics, Musicians, even Poetry. Sitting by the counter, Jaune and Cardin faced the stage as they held their mugs.
The next man on stage was an occasional drop in. From the owner they learned that he was a Professor at Beacon. One Peter Port.
The man marched onto the stage with a proud expression. A twitch of his mustache he grabbed the microphone to the delight of some of the regulars. Cheering him on.
"Aha! Thank you thank you fellow patrons of the Griffin's Lair. I am Professor Peter Port, and I'll be sharing a story of mine from when I was a young lad. But I know this one you all haven't heard yet."
The crowd cheered as they egged him on to tell the story.
"Very well, it starts in the cold Lazur Mountains of Northern Anima. I was a Huntsman of two years, working as a guard for a convoy of supplies headed for one of the last settlements left there. A temple really, for those wishing to seek enlightenment and seclusion. I had been warned by the person who sought me out. The journey was plagued with dangers that you would only hear from a new bulletin. Multiple packs of Ursas which called the mountain home. And Nevermores which had nests high in the peaks of some. Food and supplies were usually sent via airship, but the cargo we were tasked with transporting wasn't able to be carried by the airships at the time. But a mighty wind turbine! Donated by Atlas to the Temple. We had to carry it up via a winding mountain road. The turbine was only able to be split into three more smaller parts for transport."
Some near the stage sat at the edge of their seats. Listening with great intent at the great tale. Though for Jaune and Cardin the story was, in the best of terms, a snooze fest. It sounded like a grandfather going on about the war. They took a heavy swig of their mugs to help ease their moods.
"You think this is bad? Try listening to a lecture on the history of broadswords."
The two quickly turned their heads to see the waitress leaning against the bar, watching the stage. They had learned her name was Velvet, having overheard it while they were there before. She was around their age but it surprised them for a moment to hear her say it.
Cardin looked to her. "Wait, you've been taught by Professor Port?"
Turning her head to the two she nodded. "Yeup! He was my first year combat teacher and although he'll put you to sleep, he's a really good teacher."
"So, that means you're from Beacon? Wait- How come you're working here?" Jaune asked curiously.
"Oh this is just a job I have during the summer. Aside from training for the next year, it's nice to do something with actual results. And the extra Lien isn't too bad either." She said with a cheeky smile on her face.
The two chuckled in response at the quip. They had no clue that they were in the presence of a Huntress in Training. Though looks could be deceiving, not every criminal was a guy in black and white stripes. They all turned back to Professor Port, mimicking the moves he made during that fateful journey in the Mountains.
"With Blowhard in my hands I began to slash down at the coming packs of Ursa. The other huntsmen who had been hired joined me and we put up a tremendous fight! A close encounter came when one nearly sent me over the cliff's edge. Had I not quickly flipped around Blowhard to fire a concussive blast I surely would of died. But it was the Grimm that wailed as it was sent down the mountain side. It took a perilous 2 nights of marching until we reached the Temple. The Monks and Nuns greeted us warmly and we stayed there till the generator could be installed. I was able to see magnificent views, greater than any bullhead or airship could deliver. The sun! Immaculately rising above us and resting between two mountain ranges. It was all worth its weight in gold. I was personally given a gift by the Head Monk, in thanks for the dangerous journey."
Opening his hard, Port revealed a golden like charm. It glistened from the lights illuminating him. "I was told that it carries many good karma properties. I've always kept it in my pocket as a fond reminder of that day. And that boys and girls, is the end of my story."
The bar went wild at the story. Clapping and hollering for Port who simply took a bow and rose his hand to the Owner for a frothy pint of bitter. Approaching the bar, he smile and gave a small nod of his head. "Ah Miss Scarlatina, so nice to see you but I presume you're on the clock?"
"Yes, Professor. Just listening in on your story, and it was great." Velvet said with a smile.
"Ha ha! Fantastic, I'm glad to see you younger folk still enjoy a good story." Turning his head to the two gentlemen beside her drinking he rose and eyebrow. "And who might these young fellows be?"
"They're actually Police Officers if you couldn't tell." She replied with a snicker, earning a bit of a hesitant chuckle from Cardin and Jaune. "I'll let them introduce themselves."
Cardin was the first to respond, nodding and extending out his hand. "Yes, Sir. I'm Cardin Winchester."
Jaune nodded and extended his as well. "Jaune Arc, and she's right however we're still on probation."
Professor Port shook their hands with a strong firm grip. Nearly rustling the two off their stools before laughing heartily. "Ah you two seem like fine gentlemen. Though young man, do you happen to be related to a Nicholas Arc?"
Jaune stopped, nodding his head in response. "Yes, Sir. Why?"
"My boy, I taught your father when I first started teaching at Beacon! I do remember him quite well as a fine student. Studious and cunning in his strategies." Port said with an elated voice. "But I see you've gone to be a Public Servant. Why might I ask?"
"Well, I never went to Combat School, Sir. Dad only ever taught me how to spar and the basics with a sword and shield. I never would have been accepted at a Huntsmen Academy."
Nodding his head, Port acknowledged Jaune's situation. "I see… And so, you went to the Police Department. Bully for you! Doing whatever you can to server and protect the people of this Kingdom.
The man reached over and patted Jaune's back. Before turning to see that his drink was ready and now sliding over to him. Catching it he smiled and bid them a good night as he joined some of the older regulars. Discussing things that old men would before the next act came up. Velvet got back to work waiting tables and bringing out food. Leaving the two to drink and catch up on the latest.
Cardin took a heavy drink out of is mug, downing it and motioning for another pint before speaking. "So, anything new on your end?"
Nodding, Jaune pulled out his scroll and brought up an image of the guitar and speaker at his apartment. "Sure do, decided to get myself a guitar. Just a way of thanking myself for all the hard work I do."
"Oh I knew you could dance but you can play a guitar? Dude why did you bring it, could have done something for open Mic Night." Cardin said with excitement. Motioning to the empty stage.
"I'm a bit out of touch. It's been a long while since I touched one. Last was when I was back at home. So I'm trying to get back into the swing of things." Letting the pun roll off with a snicker. Earning a groan from Cardin at the cheap shot.
"God that was awful. But yeah, you should definitely do open mic night. I bet the guys here would love it considering you'd likely play music from their youth. Even Professor Port." Cardin nudged Jaune with his elbow.
Jaune caved in and rose his hands. "Alright alright, I'll go up the next Open Mic Night, okay? So long as you don't make a regular thing."
"Deal, also. Y'know the Police Gala's happening soon, right? Heard that they're going to make it a huge thing cause of the Vytal Festival." Cardin said as he retrieved his new filled mug.
It started to come back to him. The Police Gala was the Department's way of shilling up to the wealthier citizens of Vale. To woo them and their most generous donations to the different departments and programs. Big names and big wallets strutting it out for the evening.
"And what's got you thinking? If I remember right, they seldom invite many beat cops. Especially considering security and the most powerful people in Vale being there."
"Well I heard…" Cardin leaned in, causing Jaune to lean in also to listen to what was so secretive. "That they're doing a raffle for each department. So, it sounds like we got a chance. And finally, a chance for you to land big for once."
Pulling back Cardin had the goofiest grin on his face. Causing Jaune to roll his eyes in response. Dating was the least of his concerns. But going to the Gala would be something neat to do, even as a Probie. And maybe they'll have some neat stuff to do there. But then again that was 2 weeks away. He would have plenty of time to digest it. Destiny had a way of adding more and more excitement into his life.
Corruption, Galas, Reporters, what else did the great City of Vale have to offer?
And with that Chapter 13 is complete. And who do we see entering into the cast of our story? Why if it isn't the GREAT Professor Peter Port, star of MAN UP WITH PORT. An inspiration to all. And it looks like Jaune will be exploring more of his hobbies as time goes on. Maybe it'll help him in the future? Who knows.
See you next chapter AND!
Stay tuned for more Guarding Vale: A VPD Story