Chapter 2. The Shining Beacon
"Tell me Ozpin." James Ironwood began with voice filled with fury that barely restrained, and judging from his facial feature that harder than normal, it safe to say the man really not in mood for pleasantries "Why in name of Remnant I shouldn't bring an army to there and take her back?!" He finished with bark
Ozpin face meanwhile contrast from the general, stoic, calm and composed, however one can tell there hint of exasperation in his eyes as he staring at the general hologram that floating in front of his desk
"Because if you do so you will make the entire Vale become panic, something that can led to chaos and chaos led to Grimm." He said plainly "And that also not to mention there very big chance this is actually a trap."
The general clenched teeth under his closed mouth and his eyes that become sharper was enough to tell the Beacon headmaster that his fellow headmaster did not like his answer or the flow of this conversation
Two months ago there massive outbreak in one of Atlas secret lab, one that funded by James himself. That lab was working about project to create an android, one that capable to generate Aura by it own, an android that very close to have personality and also it own consciousness.
The outbreak clean anything about that lab, and when Ozpin said "clean anything" he mean, anything, literally.
The record. The data. The machine. The people working in there. Anything... Where there supposed secret lab in there, it replaced by a snowy ground of Atlas continent, as if there never lab in there, only land that claimed by nature for very long time.
Even anything that related to that project that hidden and secure in Ironwood place, those data also gone, erased from existence
So to sum it up, that project was as good as never made in first place, not even planned.
"So what do you suggest Ozpin?" James asked through gritted teeth
"Be. Subtle." Ozpin said the two words with firm voice "This is obviously a trap, and we can't just go charge to it. No." He shake his head in admonishing manner "We track her, follow her move, keep an eye on her. And let her lead us to her nest."
"..." James narrowed his eyes in sharp manner "So we play cat and mouse then?"
"Indeed... With the role unknown." Ozpin answered "We can be the cat, or we can be the mouse... It all will be revealed in time."
Actually, they are the mouse, that was assured the moment they play in Naruto game. If it was Salem, Ozpin still can guess what his nemesis would plan, and the standing was stalemate at least
But if it Naruto... Then the game was on different level...
"... I will send some agent to work in there then to help." James spoke in solemn voice "The agent will told you all information about Penny and perhaps, put some program to her computer so we can take her back."
'I don't think that going to work.' As Son of God, Naruto power is immeasurable, surpassed only by Oum himself. He was created as ruler of Remnant, given power so he can nurture the whole planet, to treat the plant, animal, and everything that stand above it.
He maybe can't create Human or Faunus, his power of Creation while unique and strong in it own league but he's not his Father, God. There still limitation despite how strong the Grimm King power is.
Though... With such power, Ozpin dare to say that rather than machine, Penny right now closer to organic being. No doubt the Devil has personally alter the girl very own nature, making her more close to... Something else rather than android...
So it was pointless to have agent to tell him everything about Penny and try to retake the girl, no, she already gone too far for that, unless Naruto himself personally give her to them -which is impossible, they have better chance to turn Grimm to pet rather than that.
Beside, Ozpin knew that the general sent his agent is not to retake Penny, the Beacon headmaster aware that James knew it was very risky as well. No, while taking Penny back is also included to main objective, but what better is to spying on Beacon
Now, now, Ozpin perfectly understand that James have no ill intention to do that. No matter what, they are allies, the Atlas headmaster trust him, however let just say the man have some problem with his... Method.
James hold more military view, he's the type of person who agree with motto "Strength is Number One". And while that wasn't bad, but it also not fully good in Ozpin view. Sure there many times that when such motto is useful and hold very high mean, however that actually only work to influence over criminal
Not Grimm...
For all Power positive influence given, the negativity it produce also equal or possibly greater than it counterpart.
And negativity going to bring more Grimm to them
He know this personally, and he know how it will end. He was once had tried to use that method after all in past. And let just say the result is not as pretty as how it supposed to be...
But still... Ozpin knew he can't deny James from doing this. He already aware that James suspicious to him about something, if he hold the general from this, it only going to make the man more skeptical and make him act rash.
He have some knowledge of what kind of person James is, so he have play his card right to make the man not behave out of control
"Acceptable." Ozpin said neutrally with nod "But please noted that I want someone who at least can handle children James." He added, his brown eyes narrowed through his shade "Remember, there students in here, you can't just bring some military man to here. It can cause negative influence on them." The message was clear, Beacon unlike Atlas, they have different method in raising students so he better respect how he rule his academy
"I know that." James nodded with grunt "Rest assure Ozpin, I will find agent that able to blend very well with students."
"Very well."
"Is there anything else you want to say Ozpin?"
"For now? No, I will give you more information if I get it."
"I see. Very well then, have a good day Ozpin."
Ozpin only give small nod while rise his mug to the general. The hologram then began to flicker before it turned off, leaving the Beacon headmaster alone who close his eyes and rub his temple with small irritated expression crossed in his face
He hate lying like this... And he also hate it that he knew this whole bloody things would be useless. That agent won't find anything about Penny, other than absurdity and illogical things. Ozpin sure as hell whoever James send going to need a lot of alcohol to cure their headache
Not to mention this also going to make his stand in political manner in front of council weaker, something that he didn't need, the council already pain in the butt after all. Seriously there's time that Ozpin consider to dismiss them, however the Wizard knew that council existence were necessary
In past where World brutal and quite raw, they not needed, but in civilized and peaceful situation like now? Their presence were needed as a symbol that presenting and handling people and public, group of men and women who not wanting to fight but dedicated themselves to other role; farmer, nurse, fisher, etc
Ozpin stare at the transcript of the girl that give him headache recently, his eyes briefly latched to her name before shifted to her smiling face
"It looks like things are shaping up to be an... Interesting year."
And Ozpin mean it, he was sure things will be very interesting this year. However what he not sure is, would it be in good way or bad way.
This was supposed to a great day for him
He finally going to take step closer to reach his dream, to become Hunter, becoming Hero, protector of innocence, bringer of justice, future hope of the World!
And yet...
"BLEEERGGH!"
Here he now, the supposed Hero, protector of innocence, bringer of justice, and future hope of the World, emptying his stomach in can because a simple ride on a Bullhead
Motion sickness, of all things that could happen. Why? Why it have to be so bad now?! He knew that he have it, but it was never this bad to the point he emptying his stomach before reaching trash can!
Heck, he even almost got the pretty blonde with her cute red haired friend with his breakfast... Or, he did, God! He really going to ask her later and apologize as well!
Fortunately he was saved when the Bullhead finally landed, the gate of the machine open, revealing land once again amd he waste no time and immediately rushed out from the Hell he currently ride on
'Save!' He thought happily as he step out from the vehicle, however it appear as that rash act make him loss his balance further as he tumbling in his steps and fall to the ground with face first
Several people who watch him only can shake their heads in pity and disgust before they began to make their way
Yeah... For the supposed great day he was clearly having really, really bad start
'Great... Just what I need, ugh! Pretty sure I'm going to be remembered as vomit boy to the rest of students.' He thought with wept
Knowing he already done enough damage to his reputation, he force himself to stand, the headache and nauseous feeling no longer as bad as when he on the flying machine so he manage to get on his knee and start to press himself
He was about to stand when he feel dizzy once again and about to fall, however before he about to crash to the ground again, a strong hand snaked to his upper arm and grab him, preventing him from fell
"Are you okay?"
It was girl voice, this make he instantly look up to his helper
She's cute, that was what he thought the moment he saw her. She had straight orange hair that reach above her chest with the tip slight curly. Her eyes were bright green, almost like a jewel. Her skin were light, smooth and healthy, there also few freckles on her face but in his opinion it make her more cute
She wore an old-fashioned blouse with short feminine overalls, as well as a black and green collar with a matching pair of stockings. She also carry backpack that... Look like made from metal?
The last part doesn't matter actually, this girl is cute, and he really mean it. She almost look like from model that he watch from TV!
"I-I'm fine." He stuttered to her "Just feeling little dizzy."
She only smiled at him in response "Then, allow me to help." She then tug his arm to help him stand and he feel his body got pulled up. Albeit not in rough manner but it was strong pull!
And wow, this girl had one of hell grip
"Thank you." He said with slight grateful voice
"Your welcome." She replied, her smile turned to small grin. Then, she look over him with curious eyes "Are you still feeling unwell?"
"No... At least not as bad as before." He answered, grimacing slightly at the memory. Actually, his motion sickness also not as bad as that, perhaps it because he nervous it become worse than usual
"I see... You were threw up in Bullhead moment ago-"
"Motion sickness is more common problem than people think!" He instantly cut her. And he grimaced after saying that, he feel like want to put his fist to his own mouth 'Way to go Romeo, way to go.' He groaned inwardly
The girl only blinked once at his statement and she tilt her head to the side a bit, making the blond hold back blush at the cute sight "No, it actually not." She said nonchalantly "However, it was indeed true that it more than people think, there few cases where Huntsman have extreme motion sickness and it quite bothersome. I believe there some case about Huntsman who have motion sickness, and when he got sent job to guarding some ship, it make his performance degraded and make the mission almost failed."
It was his turn who blinked this time, but not just once, he did it two times, then three. He actually only spouse some weak defense to cover himself, but something like that actually happen?
"Y-Yeah, like I said, it more common than people think." He repeated with small grin, then he offer her hand "The name's Jaune, Jaune Arc! Short, sweet, rolls of the tongue - ladies love it!"
The girl glanced at his hand for a second before her smile seems brightened and took it "Salutation! I'm Penny, Penny Morningstar! It was nice to meet you Jaune Arc!" She introduced herself
Jaune grinned, so far there seems no negative response about how he carry himself! Perhaps his dad right, girl love men who confidence!
'Okay Jaune Arc, you got this!' He cheered himself "So..." He began to look around, noticing there almost no one around them anymore "Shall we go?"
"Sure." Penny nodded, serene smile still plastered on her face "You want to go to the auditorium together?"
"Of course! I mean, we are friend, and friend stick together!"
"... Friend?"
Jaune grimaced hearing that, okay, maybe he hoping too much "Umm, yeah, friend? I mean... I know we just know for short time! And uhhh, we are basically stranger but my mom always says that strangers are just friends you haven't met yet. So..." Okay, he really need to shut his mouth now, he feel he just dig his own grave deeper and deeper
Penny look confused at that, her head tilted again "Strangers are just friends you haven't met yet..." She muttered the quote, rolling them in her tongue. Then her face become bright smile "Sensational! I like that words!" She gushed as she grasp his hand again and pump it vigorously "Very well, Jaune, I will be happy to become your friend."
Jaune faltered expression turned to bright as well, small heat rushed to his cheeks as he found Penny smile beatific. Just his first day and he got one girl become his friend, one cute girl! Oh yeah! The suffering he feel from that hell vehicle clearly worthy for this!
"I never have boyfriend before, hmm boy like sports, games, comics, and those kind of stuff right? So it mean-"
Wait, wait, wait! Hold on! What was that?! Pull that back for moment!
"B-Boyfriend?" Jaune stuttered, his face become redder than before "P-Penny! What you mean by b-boyfriend?!"
Sure, she cute, pretty, and this far she's being nothing but good to him! Sure it will be very lovable to have her as girlfriend in future but this soon?! It was too fast! His heart not ready!
Penny look at him in questioning manner "Boyfriend, you are boy and my friend, so it just right to call you boyfriend."
Jaune for moment only can stare blankly at his newest friend, then he allow his palm to meet his face "No Penny, boyfriend is different things."
Penny blinked at him, confusion was clear in her face. Then she close her eyes and seems think about it. She open her mouth to speak, but whatever she going to say being cut off when sound of explosion appear not far from them
To say Ruby Rose was having a bad day would be an understatement.
First, she got ditched by her half-sister in a school with people mostly older than her, two years older to be precise. While true normally that wouldn't be a problem but she is not a social person, that is not a secret to anyone and including her friends -one that is in Signal of course. So she truly doesn't know what to do when she was left alone.
Second, she exploded. No, really, she didn't mean to be sarcastic, or try to make facial expressions, she really exploded, one that went 'BOOM'. It was an accident of course, she never intended to explode in the first place.
Third, she got yelled at by some princess -or is it Heiress?- granted she was at fault but she already apologized! It was an accident as well! Can she not be so mean?!
Fourth, and while true she got helped by someone but she then got ditched again in an instant! The girl that helped her had not even bothered to greet or try to talk with her!
So yes, to say Ruby Rose was not having a good day was an understatement seeing how so far only bad luck had hit her.
"Welcome to Beacon." She muttered as she allowed herself to keep laying on ground, eyes stare blankly to the clouds in sky. This was truly not great start to become Huntress.
A shadow suddenly looming over her, prompting the silver eyed girl to look up and see someone stand over her. It was a boy, with blond hair and blue eyes and-
"Hi." He greeted, small awkward smile crossed his face as he extend his hand down "I'm Jaune."
Ruby stared at him, then slowly she took the hand and allow herself to be pulled "Ruby." She responded as she stand on her feet now, her eyes then narrowed to the boy face, as if trying to remember something "Aren't you the guy that threw up on the ship?"
The moment that question left from her mouth, she knew she should stick her own foot to there. Seriously, way to go Ruby! Insult someone who just help you!
She about to apologize at Jaune who groaned and blanch at the event, however there another person who stood on his side and caught her attention, it was a girl with orange hair and green eyes
"Yes." Jaune replied in uncertain voice "But on my defense, motion sickness is a much more common than people let on!" He defend himself before giving gesture to the girl on his side "Penny here agree with that!"
"Averagely, there two out of ten case where motion sickness cause Hunter and Huntress performance degraded, prompting mission succeed chance to be decreased." Penny agreed with nod "It's indeed much more than people think."
"Sorry, sorry." Ruby let out small chuckle, her face showing apologetic face "Vomit Boy was the first thing that came to mind."
Jaune eyes twitched and he shoot small glare "Oh, yeah? What if I called you Crater Face?"
"Hey, that explosion was an accident!" Ruby defended herself this time, making Jaune grinned
"Well, the name's Jaune Arc! Short, sweet, rolls off the tongue - ladies love it!" He introduced himself
Ruby give him skeptic look before glanced at Penny "Do they?"
"It indeed short and rolls in the tongue." Penny giggled "I don't know about other girl, but I found his behavior funny."
Jaune give slight smug look to Ruby who chuckle, knowing what actually Penny mean while the boy seems oblivious to it
"I'm Penny by the way, Penny Morningstar." Penny introduced herself to Ruby
"Ruby Rose." Ruby responded with small smile, it seems this day won't be as bad as she thought
"So, shall we head to the opening ceremony Jaune, Ruby?" Penny asked the duo
"Sure." Ruby nodded along with Jaune "You know the way?"
"I do." Penny nodded back "This way." She said as she began to walk first
There silence between the trio as they walk in slow pace, glancing around to their surrounding. Ruby noted that there seems... Awkward atmosphere between them judging by Jaune who seems want to speak but doesn't know what to say, Penny meanwhile oblivious and seems enjoying the scenery around
"Beacon architecture and design is more colorful than I thought." Penny commented with cheerful smile
"You can say so." Ruby agreed "Signal clearly have more to learn from here."
"Signal?" Jaune asked
"It's my previous combat school." Ruby answered "The view around there weren't like city or modern like this, it more like a village." She explained "By the way, where you two from before Beacon?"
"Ah? Ummm! I come from Zero Academy!" Jaune answered as he quickly memorize his forged transcript data "It located near Vacuo, not too big but it decent."
"I got tutored privately." Penny informed
Ruby glanced at the two with small surprise "You two not come from same place?"
Jaune shook his head "We just met moments ago." He give small grateful look to Penny "Penny here helped me when I... Uhh, have problem after the landing."
Said the girl merely give cheerful smile to him
"I see..." Ruby give another look to them "So... What you got?" She asked "I mean, I got this." She unfold Crescent Rose and allow the scythe to stab the ground
Jaune let out small yelp at the sudden weapon appearance while Penny let out small 'ohh' in impressed manner at the sight of the weapon
"Whoa! Is that a scythe?" Jaune asked, eyes looking at the blade of the weapon warily
Ruby give small grin and held the scythe Yep! Her name Crescent Rose!" She nodded while emphasizing the 'P' part, she cradled the weapon proudly, placing one hand on what looked like a bolt handle on one side "It's also a customizable high-impact sniper rifle!" She added
"A what?"
"It's also a gun." Ruby explained while cocking the gun
"Oh. That's cool!" Jaune said in slight gushing manner. While the idea a little girl in red hood carrying scythe was scary but it can't be denied the weapon was cool
"Impressive design and the material you use also seems high quality." Penny commented, eyes scanned the weapon from the edge to the bolt handle "Where you made this?" She asked
"I made it by myself." Ruby answered proudly while turning the scythe into its gun form much to Jaune's surprise "I guess I did go a little overboard when designing, hehehe, can't be helped, I am kind of a dork when it comes to weapons." She admitted in a small sheepish voice
"Wait, designing?!" Jaune let out small gasp "You mean, you made that?!"
"Of course! All students at Signal forge their own weapons!" Ruby answered "Didn't you two make yours?"
"Uhh... Not really." Jaune admitted as he slowly unsheath his sword, Crocea Mors "I only got this, it name Crocea Mors, unlike your super cool scythe." He said in slight embarrassed voice, here a girl with cool weapon but he only have normal sword "It's hand-me-down. My great-great-grandfather use it to fight in the war."
"Sounds more like a family heirloom to me." Ruby laughed "It's okay, I like it though. Not many people have an appreciation for the classics these days."
Penny meanwhile staring at Jaune sword, the computer inside her mind began to scan the weapon and she frowned when she can't find something special from just by looking, unlike Ruby's who visible just from it design
"Jaune, may I check your sword?" She asked to Jaune
"Huh? Uhh, sure." Jaune give questioning look to Penny before hand it to her
The orange haired android took the sword, her eyes lingering to part of some kind of... Old words, it almost like rune she watched in cartoon or anime, there runes inscribed to part of the sword, barely recognizable due to old time but it was there
Her hand then began to touch and rub the edge, the flat side, and the tip of the sword, face seems in deep thought before her eyes widened and she let out small gasp "Jaune! This is prieceless sword!" She declared
"Priceless?" Jaune asked and Ruby seems interested as well hearing that
"This." She hold the sword high "Is made from pure Vibranium! Remnant strongest and rarest metal!" She told them with gushed and awed voice
"Vibranium?" Ruby asked in more interest "I never heard that kind of material."
"Of course you never! It rarely mentioned because it supposed to be no longer exist, the mine of Vibranium was located outside of Kingdom, to gather this is not easy due to Grimm and was destroyed due to attack." Penny explained, her swords as matter of fact made from metal that trying to be forged like Vibranium "You can shoot war missile inside diamond-made room with this sword in it and there won't be even crack on it while the former destroyed!"
Ruby and Jaune jaw dropped as they openly gape at the sword Penny hold now. The former eyes practically sparkling as she looking at the sword as if it the greatest treasure in the World while the latter looking at his hand-me-down sword with new light
"What so special about this... Vibranium?" Jaune asked
"Vibranium is metal that far stronger than steel, however it weight only third of the latter. While that is good and a bit uncommon, but Vibranium special attributes is that it completely vibration absorbent." Penny explained to him "When you block or attacking, there will be vibration that send to your weapon and it can cause it to break if it was too strong. However weapon that made from Vibranium capable to absorb and negated that vibration."
"Which mean not just it lighter than any weapon it won't be damaged no matter what!" Ruby stated with eyes that wide from the revelation "It mean it nearly indestructible!" She squealed in awe "Jaune! You will lent me that sword sometime right?! I want to see more of this and study it!"
"Uhh..." Jaune backed away a bit as the red reaper began to invade his personal space, the enthusiasm she display while cute but also make him embarrassed as well
"I will give you my cookie and milk later! But let me take a look on it later okay?! Okay?! Okay?!" She take step closer every time she said 'okay', prompting the blond to take step back in awkward manner
"Yes, yes, Ruby you can look at my sword later I promise!" Jaune agreed with small squeak "But can you back a bit... You know? Personal space and all?"
Hearing that Ruby face flushed as she notice she now getting too close on him, she pulled back and give sheepish look "Sorry, I got little excited in there." She apologized
"It's okay." Jaune chuckled weakly. It seems what his dad said is right as well, girl really weird creature
"Here your sword Jaune." Penny handed the sword back to Jaune who took it and he look at the sword with new light "It's good sword, a bit old, but if you polish and clean it I sure it will be better."
"I will." Jaune nodded, he going to take care of this sword better since he know just how priceless this old thing is. His ancestor must be really great to wield such weapon in war!
"What about you Penny?" Ruby asked "What do you have?"
Penny fixing her backpack position, giving small smile to Ruby "Well, my weapons is-" She cut herself when notice the opening ceremony place already on the sight "Perhaps, I will show you later Ruby, we already arrive." She said as she pointed to the crowd that gathered
Ruby and Jaune see where she pointed and the latter whistled "Wow, that a lot of people." He murmured
"There 120 students who accepted to follow the initiation." Penny told him almost in robotic way "So, shall we go then?"
Both Ruby and Jaune give look to each other before turned to Penny and give nod
It had been few hours after the opening ceremony. Night has fallen to Beacon, replacing the bright sun with broken moon and endless stars
She found herself stare at them, at the sight that given by the darkness above her, and she can't help but feel awed by it
Few months ago she won't even bother to stare at them, and even if she did, it only would be for checking the wind or such things. However now? Now she can... Enjoy them...
It was hard to describe her feeling in a word. It as if she feel nothing one moment when stare at something but the next time she did, she suddenly feel something. It as if part of her that missing now replaced
When her Master told her she will go to Beacon to become students, she feel ecstatic. She finally able to go out and talk with other people who at her age! She finally can explore the World not just through using computer but her own feet and eyes! Take Beacon for example, she has seen the school picture, but when she see it directly? It was very different!
Don't get her wrong, she love her Master with passion and she will do anything he ordered, she owe him that much after all for freeing and opening her eyes. True in a sense it almost only like trade one for another, however with Master she went through more than when with Atlas. She maybe still sheltered by him, but when he travel to outside Kingdom he always bring her, add the fact he also often spend his time with her, teaching her directly, unlike when in Atlas, she only given data and told to upload it to her computer and understand it one by one.
So she fine with Master Naruto, he's kind to her this far and already did so much for him, even if she sheltered as well but it doesn't change the fact she enjoy his company. Beside, she knew as well that her existence can brought some trouble if people found out about it
However she still want some freedom, she want to have friends or people who there for her, not only just Master Naruto. She want to have company that she can share about everything she know and marveling them with it.
She knew it selfish, Master Naruto has given a lot after all and she had no right to ask for it. And she won't even dare to ask it to him, he has done so much for her after all
But week ago after Beacon Academy headmaster Ozpin come to their estate, he told her that she can go to school, to real school with people who supposed to be at her age! He told her that he aware she look so lonely and only have him as company won't do well, so he allow her to go out and he will handle everything about Atlas or such things!
Her Master kindness really have no bound!
So here she now, at the Beacon Academy, enjoying the feeling of night wind that whipped to her face, along with moon and stars that hovering above her while wearing a simple short green pants that reach above her knee and pink t-shirt
"Penny?"
The robot girl blinked when familiar voice address her, she turned and see her friend, Jaune Arc stand not far from her and he clad in... Onesie? Yes, according to the description she got from her computer after quick scan, he wear what called onesie
"Jaune? Salutation!" Penny greeted in bright voice
"Yeah, salutation." Jaune chuckled as he approach her "What are you doing in this night? Shouldn't we gather in audit? We sleep there."
"Yes, I perfectly aware of that." Penny nodded "However I found myself has yet to need rest, so I decide to go out and see the sky for moment." She told the boy who now stood on her side
"I see..." Jaune hummed as he also stare at the dark sky
"How about you Jaune? You not sleep?" She asked back
"Well I about to, but I notice you stand here alone so..." Jaune shrugged "I guess I want to check on you." He said with grin
"Check on me?" Penny tilted her head questioningly "I'm perfectly functional and not feeling unwell Jaune."
"Is that so?" Jaune let out small nervous chuckle "Well, then I guess I should go back. Don't want to bother you or things like that."
"You did not bother me at all Jaune." Penny replied in serene voice "I found your presence to be... Enlightening."
"Really?" Jaune asked, sounding surprised
"Yes, I... Do not have friends in past." Penny show troubled look "I was quite sheltered so I rarely have friends."
"Sheltered? Why?" Jaune asked in curious manner
Penny did not answer and only turned away, her eyes glued to the stars in sky
Jaune maybe a bit goof, however he knew it obvious that Penny uncomfortable with the topic so he decide to change it "Uhh, you don't have to tell me if it bothering you."
"Thank you Jaune." Penny said, giving him smile
"Your welcome." Jaune grinned "So... What do you think about tomorrow? I mean, the initiation."
"Oh? I'm perfectly ready for the initiation." Penny puffed her chest in confident manner "How about you?"
"Well..." Jaune squirm a bit "I kind of nervous actually."
Penny stare at him before decide to pat him in the back "Don't worry, I'm sure you will do fine." She stated "Though, I'm confused why you still haven't unlocked your Aura."
Jaune blinked "My what?"
"Aura, the energy that come from our Soul and protect us from harm." Penny said almost in robotical manner "You do know what Aura is right?"
Jaune let out small scoff, however he avoid looking at the girl eyes "Psch! Of course I do! Do you know what Aura is?"
Penny smiled at the boy "Of course I do as well. Aura is the manifestation of our soul. It bears our burdens and shields our hearts." She explained "That is actually the best explanation that come since nothing much known about Aura, it was one of the biggest mystery that unsolved."
"Ohh." Jaune make impressed sound "Kind of cool actually. So, what it can do?"
"Many things. our Aura can be our shield. By baring our soul outward as a force, we can deflect harm. All of our tools and equipment can be conduits for Aura as well, allowing us to strengthen our attack."
"It's like a force field!" Jaune said in 'aha' tone
Penny stare at him, face scrunched to thoughtful for second before she nodded "In one or few way, it could be true." She said "However there actually many theory about Aura, where it come from and what it actually is. What I told you is only the most things that people think, since majority seems accept it so it become right."
"Uh-huh." Jaune sounded not that interested about the theory part "So... I have this Aura inside me right?"
"Every living being did, even animals. Excluding Grimm, they don't."
"Right, they are the darkness so they don't have soul." Jaune nodded in understanding manner
"You can say so."
"Well, then how I can get mine out?"
"Usually it require very extensive training, there belief that when you train yourself very hard your Soul can't be contained by your body anymore and as result, it manifest itself as a force." Penny explained "However you also can ask other people to unlock it for you, albeit there family that frown upon those method because think of them as weakness."
"I see..." Jaune muttered, seems in deep thought
"I can unlock yours if you want." Penny offered brightly
"You can do that?"
"Few individuals capable to do that I..." Penny paused, her smile turn to troubled face as she recall her android status. Even if her Master has said her Aura won't be problem anymore and she will manifest her Semblance in future but she still doubt it "I'm unsure I could, however I can try if you want. There won't be any negative backlash as far I know when someone fail unlocking someone else Aura."
And coming from her, it mean anything seeing she already search through the internet and try to find any record about people trying to unlock Aura but fail
"I trust you." Jaune nodded "You can do it to me!" He puffed his chest in gesturing manner
Penny smile returned and it seems brighter than before "Really? You sure?"
"Yes."
"Okay then." Penny cheerfully said as she turn to Jaune "Then, let's do it."
"Okay!" Jaune nodded "So how we start?"
"Hmm... Jaune, have you ever felt you were being watched without knowing that someone was there?"
"Uhh, yeah sometime."
"Good, I want you to close your eyes and concentrate on that feeling now and when you get it, try to relax and allow it to surround you."
Jaune did as she asked, he close his eyes, allow himself to relax and trying to search for the feeling Penny describe
Penny watched as Jaune face contorted from concentration to relax in a minutes, an indication that he got a hold on his Aura and now embracing it. She then close her eyes and allow herself to focus as well, delving in her Aura
"For it is in passing that we achieve immortality. Through this, we become a vassal for others, reborn to become weapons that strike the darkness. A paragon of freedom and glory to rise above all, infinite in distance and unbound by death." Penny then place her hand on Jaune chest "I release your soul, and by my shoulder protect thee."
They stand in front of him. Outnumber him in hundred and one. Wielding weapons that far more advanced. Having size that surpass him.
And yet he did not deter
He stand in front of hundreds. Holding nothing but a sword and shield. With nothing but his Soul that bare and manifestation of his Origin.
This battle... Could be the last battle for him... Could be the end for him... All his friends and allies has gone, few retreating and many has died for other sake
He stand alone in face of army, knowing he may won't return to those who waiting for him, those who care to him, those who precious and priceless for him.
Yet... There no hesitation in his blue night colored eyes, only firm determination and courage
'Frey... Daphne, Anya, Cecil, Hadrian, Arnold... I love you all. And I won't let them to touch any of you!' He thought grimly as he stood, his sword raised and point it to the army "None of you shall pass without step over my dead body, this I swear in name of my ancestor and family, I, Caesar Arc will draw you back to where you all come from!" He declared
Blue night turned to crimson blood, nostril flared and his sword glowing with yellow light. With roar, the Knight charged to hundreds who stood before him.
"Jaune!"
Jaune let out gasp, his eyes snapped open almost in frantic manner, his mouth instantly inhale air as much as he could
"Jaune, Jaune! Are you okay?"
He feel Penny hand placed on his shoulders, he want to reply but he too busy to fill his lung with oxygen once again. It took few seconds so he can respond "I-I'm fine! It just..." He gasped 'What the hell was that?!'
The image was blur... Dazed... Off-focus... It almost like staring at pieces of mozaic that forced to gather together and yet... It feel so real... It feel so...
"What happen?" He asked, confusion was evident in his face
"I... Don't know." Penny said, sounding unsure and confused as well "I was unlocking your Aura, and it did come out, however when I already stop, you still close your eyes and no matter how I called you, you not budged at all." She was very worried obviously now "You not even breathing and I was so afraid that I did something wrong. I'm so sorry! Jaune I..."
Seeing the girl close to tears -he learn it by experience when dealing with his sisters- Jaune quickly act "No, no, no." He waving his hand in dismissing manner as he feel his breath got calmer now "Nothing went wrong, I'm fine."
"Are you sure?" Penny asked again
"Well... No, actually I feel a bit tired." He confessed, and he did. He feel tired for unknown reason, as if he just running over the academy
"I'm sorry." Penny bit her lip in ashamed manner "It's my mistake, and because of that you exposed to danger. Jaune we should go to near infirmary to have you checked or call some professor in here and-"
"No, no, no." Jaune hastily cut her "I'm fine Penny, just tired seriously!" He maybe not the brightest person, but he do have some common sense. Whatever this Aura or force field, it was common among students here, and if some professor found out that he doesn't have one, his transcript will be rechecked and... Well, let just say that is something he want to avoid
"Jaune..."
"Look Penny I'm fine, I just have to sleep now and tomorrow I will be back like normal." Jaune flex his arm playfully to show he is indeed fine
"If you say so..." Penny still look uncertain but seems willing to let it go "I'm so sorry Jaune." She apologized again, the guilt in her stomach still gnawing
"It's fine, really Penny. I should say thanks as matter of fact since you unlock my force field." Jaune chuckled "I will go and take rest then so I can ready for initiation tomorrow. You want to come?"
"I want to be here a bit longer." Penny shook her head negatively "Good night then Jaune, have a nice dream."
Jaune stared at her for moment before he chuckled "Yeah, good night Penny."
With that the blond turned his back to the robot girl and began to walk away, and because of that, Penny concerned eyes missed Jaune eyes that momentarily turning to crimson red before they flicker back to their original blue color
Above in his tower, unknown to everyone in the academny, including Jaune and Penny, the Beacon Headmaster watched them with glinting eyes
Naruto allow himself to smirk as he watched the interaction between his girl and the Arc
Truthfully, he never expect Penny to make contact with the Arc this fast. Sure she would in future as partner or someone who working togetbher, but making contact just when come out from the Bullhead?
And moreover the boy Aura wasn't unlocked!
He didn't surprised by that part though. The moment he read the Arc name through Beacon data he manage to hack, he quickly check the boy family tree
Caesar Arc last family, his last two children, son and daughter. The Son grew to become Hunter, following his family footstep while the Daughter become simple housewife, continuing the Arc bloodline
Obviously the Son was not as strong as his Father, he only above average Hunter, his descendant already no longer exist, extinct in hand of the Grimm. The Daughter meanwhile keep continue, they live in peace, become farmer, merchant, fisher, teacher and such thing.
Crocea Mors was given to her by the caretaker instead her brother so her descendant and famly can remember Caesar Arc forever, the caretaker doesn't want to give it to the Son because afraid he would loss it when in fight against Grimm.
And because of that, the Arc, the family name of Hero, faded in history, forgotten in time. True Caesar Arc name still live until now and become inspiration to many, however his family name no longer hold the same meaning. They already fall from grace and no longer known to the World
So here he now, Jaune Arc, the only son of Chael Arc and Elisa Arc, a simple farmer and housewife, went out from their safe haven to follow his ancestor steps, becoming Huntsman and Hero
Just like Caesar Arc
Still... What happened to him when Penny unlock his Aura is something strange. The way he show exhaustion and show tiredness... It should be the opposite, the unlocker who tired, and while Penny indeed show sign of tiredness but the boy show more
He can't make clear answer to the phenomenon since he not there directly, but he does have some theory. Penny after all quite unique case, an android made from part of girl that supposed to be dead, an attempt of resurrection that fail
And if what he think is right then...
"Well Ozpin." Naruto chuckled as he roll the wine in his cup, playing with the liquid "Consider this as gift then, for keeping Humanity and Faunus survive this far and allow me to keep amused by their suicidal tendecy." He said as he gulp down his wine
That Wizard must be have his own suspicion and theory, thus he test it and allow Penny to unlock the boy Aura. And seeing he didn't stop it, then it pretty much will show positive result for him in future
That Wizard... Heh, he really crafty, albeit in not his level but Ozpin have his moment. There reason why Salem did not manage to kill him until now despite having army of Grimm in her arsenal
And with this... Naruto sure Ozpin going to step up his plan to ensure his foundation become stronger to face him in future
Not like the Devil care, Ozpin can do whatever he want and he will always be ready for the Wizard. He sure as hell their kin already doomed and it just matter of time, they maybe going to triump over Salem but him?
Pfftt, they have better chance to tell baby to kill Beowolf rather than that
So he let it slide, after all this only going to make the game more entertaining. He want to see how Salem keep up with Ozpin who now have the Warden and the Arc with him, though it obvious the former is more dangerous.
Or... Maybe he could use this to make the game more entertaining, there plenty of opportunity after all to mess with Ozpin plot, to make the man get more headache and things become insane
... Yes... Yes, he could... It certainly will be amusing and fun to mess with his Father last champion! Granted, he already did it many times but... Well, he sure as hell this time will be different
His mind briefly pointed that he thinking the same line the last time he mess Ozpin plan but he ignore it, as long it fun and entertaining for him, why should he care?
Now... What should he do to mess Ozpin plan without giving too much damage?
Decision, decision, decision... Hmm... There so many buttons, which one he should push to get the best result?
Annnddd done, another chapter finish
I must say this one come out better than I expect actually. How Penny behave and how the other interact with her, yeah, I clearly satisfied
She might be abit OOC, however it thanks to Naruto influence actually, she spend her time few months with him so while she still awkward in social manner -no thanks to Naruto keep her sheltered- but at least she not that oblivious
As you can see thing already start to change due to her presence in Beacon. Started with Jaune who have his Aura unlocked by her instead of Pyrrha, something that obviously going to cause something in future, I already give the hint after all
To rick12, you ask why Ozpin didn't afraid to Naruto, well that's a wrong question. Ozpin afraid to him, he just didn't show it, Naruto is really powerful despite he still only second or third rate compared to his original self
And what he mean by he can 'kill' Naruto is, Ozpin in past was powerful, enough for Naruto to consider him threat. And what he mean is, he could deliver killing blow to Naruto. True he can't beat him one on one and there will be a lot of sacrifice, however all Ozpin need is a chance and he will be able to deliver the blow that enough to finish him
That was in past though, no? He no longer have that level of power, thanks to sharing it to Four Maidens. Make no mistake Ozpin didn't do that without reason, he give Maiden power and sacrifice his was clearly for something
As for your other question such as Naruto relationship with Summer, Raven and Salem, well that will be revealed in future, I don't want to talk any about it, it was too soon to reveal them now after all! XP
As for Penny incantation when unlock Jaune Aura. It actually inspired from Not this time Fate by Coeur Al'Aran. He mention that since Aura is manifestation of Soul, then perhaps the chant should be different because each people Soul was different as well.
Penny chant
"We become a vassal for others, reborn to become weapons that strike the darkness. A paragon of freedom and glory to rise above all, infinite in distance and unbound by death."
There a hidden meaning in there obviously, it actually reflect her own condition and if you can catch it then you might as well get glimpse of the future about Jaune and Penny
And as for Crocea Mors made from Vibranium, well I did say in last chapter that there will be other elements included, and when I think the best metal, Vibranium instantly crossed to my mind xP
In next one or two chapter, our focus will be on Beacon for moment to show what changed due to Penny presence in there, then we will shift back to our favorite protagonist. So you all not need to afraid that Naruto won't have scene in this story xD
I guess that's all for now. Next chapter will be the Initiation! And Naruto make more plot to give Ozpin headache! Stay tune if you want to see how this story goes! And don't forget to give favorite, follow and review to this story!
Ja Ne! XD