Mithos here. I believe I may have a slight problem. From what I have seen, daily updates are not normal.
Please do not expect consistent daily updates...
"With your plans set, I would like to ask about how you got in contact with Miss Belladonna," Ozpin remarks. "It was explicitly stated that you must avoid trouble, especially after your case with Scylla."
"Yeah...I just kind of forgot that part of the conversation." Jaune scratches his head. Actually, I don't remember any of it, but I should probably keep that to myself.
Ozpin raises an eyebrow. Goodwitch speaks up, "From this point on, please keep that in mind. We would like to keep the spotlight off of you, especially with your unique powers."
"I will definitely try!" With that, Jaune explains what happened on the train, with what he saw and how he ended up handcuffed to a White Fang member.
After the explanation, Ozpin use the pause to take a drink. "I see. Are you curious about her situation? As a witness, I believe you are entitled to some answers."
"Hmm...The way I see it, she's got her share of secrets. The whole being a cat Faunus and White Fang member is probably something she doesn't want anyone to know." Though I only noticed the cat ears after comparing her to the game... "Seeing as how we are going to be fellow students, I shouldn't probe too much into it, as to not make the relationship awkward." Also, if she ever does share her secrets, that's a major upgrade to our relationship status. Probably want to save that. "So I won't ask anything."
"If that is your choice. The next thing we have to clarify is your semblance." Ozpin takes a look at the letter in front of him. "Xenith mentioned that it is to absorb Grimm and use their properties on yourself. Could you explain further?"
Jaune grimaces. I wanted to avoid talking about it...But considering it's an important part of being a Hunter, I can't avoid it for long. With a bit of hesitation, he starts talking.
"My semblance is called Twilight Bracelet." A gold bracelet materializes on his left wrist. A white line partially encircles it, which then turns to black to finish the circle. "It allows me to absorb defeated Grimm with Data Drain, which unlocks a skill series corresponding to the type of Grimm. For example," Nevermore Series: Fallen Feathers. Black feathers grow out and appear out from the side of Jaune's arms as the skill activates.
"These are Nevermore feathers from the Nevermore Series, and I can use them to glide. They can also," Nevermore Series: Feathershot. The feathers on his arm now shoot forward, embedding itself in the walls. "Shoot them out like this. In addition to using Aura, there's also a cost I call corruption." He points toward the lines on his bracelet. The black line has extended, taking some of the white line away. "The cost probably has something to do with the clash of Aura of the soul and the Grimm of the soulless. I have never reached a complete black line, and Master never let me reach anywhere close to it. There are also other skills from different types of Grimm. I can call forth claws from a Beowolf and strength enhancement from an Ursa. The only time I ever fought Master evenly was using every skill series."
Goodwitch seems a bit unnerved by the rapid explanation. Ozpin looks unfazed, the only emotion shown being curiosity. "Does using your semblance alter your mental state? And will you be using all the...skill series while you are at Beacon?"
"Nope. Using my semblance is not pleasant, but I have full control even when using it. As for my usage while in school..." It's probably not a good idea for me to walk around with Grimm parts. I don't want to risk friendly fire, and having these features is definitely unsettling. "I plan on only using the Nevermore series. It can be disguised as a semblance to emulate birds, and it has versatility to harden as well. It's a good sidearm."
The room is silent as the pun is said. Man, tough crowd. Master would crack up at that one.
Clearing his throat, Ozpin responds. "Yes, that is probably for the best. If you have considered it, then please use your own discretion."
Jaune makes a small nod, before calling off his semblance. The bracelet fades away, and the feathers on the wall do the same.
"Finally, the last thing to consider is your Master's will." Jaune stiffens up. "She did not leave behind much, and I have already resolved most of her requests."
This triggers the memory of his first conversation with Ozpin. He remembers Hunters delivering Master's body, burying her next to their cabin. He was handed a scroll that connected to Ozpin, who showed him the will and requested an audience.
"Yeah. You have." Jaune curtly stated.
Trying to ignore the solemn atmosphere, Glynda hands a copy of the will to him. "Please make sure everything is in order. I know it is difficult to face this alone, but if there is anything we can do to..."
"It's fine. She would kick my ass if she knew I was moping around right now." He wants to consider his language, but the emotions were getting to him now.
Ozpin speaks up. "The last two things is the case of your weapon." He points toward the katana by the boy's side. "Though I would like to hand you that blade, it is a...symbol of the position your Master held. I can trust you to not misuse it, but I cannot say for others. Therefore, I would have to take that back."
"YOU CAN'T!" Jaune screams out, standing up and kicking away his seat. "This is the last thing she left for me, and if you want to take it, you are going to have to pry it off my cold, dead hands," he shouted, emanating a killing aura.
Surprised by the difference in attitude, Glynda tries to diffuse the situation. "That is where you are mistaken. Your master foresaw this situation, and left a weapon for you in her inheritance. I understand the blade has sentimental value to you, but its value as a symbol is even greater."
With the reveal and logical argument, Jaune calms down, and his breathing becomes more regular. Taking that as her cue to continue, she suggests, "Consider it safekeeping. Once you inherit her position after graduation, it will be given back to you."
Jaune falls silent.
I...I don't want to part ways with Night's End. It's my last connection to her, reminding me of her existence and everything she did for me.
But if she sees me clinging on to her like this, not maturing despite her guidance...Well, wouldn't I be turning my back on all her lessons? Even if I don't have the blade... I will still have my memories with her.
With that final thought, he made up his mind. He unlocks Night's End from his belt and hands it to the teacher.
"Thank you," she voices, giving him a gentle smile. It was the first smile he saw from her. Blushing from both the smile and the embarrassment of his outburst, he turns his head away from her, muttering a small "sorry."
Ozpin takes the chance to continue the conversation. "As Glynda mentioned, your master left another blade for you. However, it is currently not in our possession." Taking a small note from his drawers, he hands it to Jaune. "That is the location, held by someone named Junior. He was an old colleague and classmate of your master; that is probably why he was entrusted with it."
Grasping the note tightly, Jaune memorized the location.
"I would suggest retrieving it as soon as possible. The weapon itself might have need for maintenance or repairs. As Beacon initiation starts in four days, your time is limited. With that said, we have covered our list of topics." He looks to Glynda, who nods back. Ozpin stands up, extending out his hand. It was only then that Jaune notices the cane in his left hand, with cogs and gears in the handle.
With how much gears are around him and how he speaks, it's a wonder people don't think he's a robot. Jaune thought, as he grasp and shakes the hand offered to him.
"I look forward to initiation, and our future work together."
"Likewise."
With those closing statements, Jaune turned around and walked to the elevator. As the elevator descends, the last thing he sees are the massive cogs and gears on the ceiling.
Seeing the boy leave their sight, Glynda uses her telekinesis to place the chair back, taking the chance to speak up. "Sir, is it wise to offer him that position?"
Ozpin gives a small shrug. "He has the blessings of the predecessor. If you are worried about his combat abilities, I believe the upcoming four years will allow you to evaluate that."
"That was not what I was referring to. His attachment to his master, that outburst, and that strange, not to mention dangerous, semblance, are detriments to becoming a Hunter. Not to mention his history before Xenith..."
"I understand your worry. However, we are currently fighting a war. One where I have just lost a pivotal piece. If a replacement shows up, I believe it would be foolish not to accept." He takes a drink again. He could feel the burn of the vodka as going down his throat. I could not do these conversations sober.
She responds with a sigh, in acceptance. "Your judgment has not failed us before. But, can I bring up one problem?"
Ozpin looks at her, allowing her to continue.
"You just sent someone, who by a simple train ride, got involved with the White Fang, towards one of the most notorious nightclubs in the city."
"Well." Ozpin took another drink. And another.
"I will prepare the repair forms, sir," she said, walking towards her office.
I am already having second thoughts about this, Ozpin thought as he finished the last of his drink.
Better strike while the iron's hot, Jaune thought to himself. After reserving a hotel room for his stay in Vale, he heads toward the address on his paper. Though it was already late, he wants to resolve this as quickly as possible. Besides, it feels weird without having a weapon by my side.
And this guy, Junior, used to know Master, right? I wonder if he has any cool stories about her. Even better, he might be a Hunter as well! Wait...Junior...Master...Is this an inside joke? Could it be that they were on the same team, and the other people were named Senior and...
As he entertains these thoughts, he arrives at the location. Looking that the sign that read Limelight, he considers the possibility he had the wrong place. However, when he compares the addresses, they are completely identical.
Well, this is the right address...Could Ozpin have given me the wrong place? Focusing on the building, he could hear music with flashes of colored light coming out the door.
Oh god...The realization struck him. This is a nightclub! I have only read about these...Aren't you supposed to dress up in fancy clothes with crazy hats and tattoos to show your individuality?
He looks at his getup, which consists of a blue hoodie, black jeans, and sneakers.
Not even considering the "cool" factor, I look like a kid that got lost!
The people around him start pointing and whispering, some of them entering the club. I probably look suspicious just standing out here...
Feeling lost, he recalls Master's Rule #4. When you don't know where to go, charge straight ahead! The world's obstacles and forces will push you to where you need to go! When she said this, she pointed her sword forwards, with one leg up and striking a gallant pose; it looked as if a pirate stepped in treasure, claiming it for himself.
I'm starting to think this is one of the reasons why I get lost so easily...But taking the advice, he walks through the entrance.
The first thing he notices is the obnoxiously loud music. Next is the flashing lights where the club derived its name from. The last thing was the mass of bodies on the dance floor, with four glass cylinders marking the corners. Ignoring the center, he saunters over to the bar, hoping to find Junior.
No one's stopping me? He sees several people dressed up in suits, shades, and fedoras acting as guards, which reminds him of the guy in the train.
I never did get that resolved...I hope that guy doesn't get in trouble. Especially since I gave him a wrong number. And lied about being a Hunter. Well, I'm sure Ozpin can handle it.
Arriving at the bartender, the man gives him a strange look.
Jaune takes the initiative. "Hi, I'm looking for Junior. Ozpin sent me."
"Look next to you," the bartender replied, before walking away to make drinks for the other customers.
Jaune turns to his side, where he sees a man dressed similarly to the bouncers in the club. However, instead of a suit, he wears a black vest. He also opted to replace the fedora with a well shaved beard instead. His posture seems more authoritative than the others.
I assume he's the one in charge.
"Who's looking?" the man turns around to face him. "A kid?"
"Name's Jaune. Ozpin sent me, saying you have something of mine."
"Ozpin? What business does Ozpin have with me? I cut those ties years ago." Junior voiced out. He gives Jaune a suspicious look, trying to judge his intentions.
"Technically, it's business with Master. Her name was..." not having said her name very often, it took a bit for him to remember. "Xenith Versailles. Her will stated that she left something in your care for me. I'm here to claim it."
Junior's eyes opened wide. "Wait, you're Xenith's kid? Calling her Master...I guess she still did that, huh?" He stood up. "Jaune, right? She mentioned you a few times. Follow me."
Jaune follows the man to the back of the club. "So you knew Master?"
"Yup. Back when I was still a Hunter, she saved my life more times than I could count." He chuckled. "It's actually how I got this name. She made everyone that she helped call her Master. Since she saved my life more than anyone else, she started calling me Junior. The name kinda stuck, so I kept it."
He took a key out, opening the backroom and turning on the lights. "Sorry for the mess, I don't come in here very often." They walk into the room.
"So why did you quit?" Wait, that's probably way too personal! "Err, sorry, I didn't mean to..." the blonde stammered out.
"It's fine, kid. Let's see...if it was anything, it was probably the fact I sucked as a Hunter. Needed saving too many times, and saw too many good men and women die for the cause. Became dissuaded, you know?" He grabs his neck awkwardly. "It's hard to believe you're doing good when all you see is bad."
It was hard to answer. After a bit of pondering, he replies, "Master used to say the same thing."
"She did, huh? Well, at least I know one other person agrees!" With a dry laugh, he points at the safe in the very back of the room.
"She said you'd know the combination. I hope she left you something good, kid."
Jaune looks at the safe. I will never forget these numbers as I live. He types in the numbers 1019. "Yeah. She always thought of others," often before herself.
With a click, the safe swings open. As expected, a short sword about one and a half feet long was inside. What was unexpected was the sealed letter next to the blade.
"She really thought of everything," Jaune asserted, as he took both things from the safe.
"Wait, that sword...Oh man, is that why she asked me gather black silver?" Junior had a hand over his face.
"Black silver?" Jaune questioned. "Is it a rare material or something?"
They started walking back to the bar. "It's not just rare. It's volatile, hard to work with, and illegal to obtain. It reacts violently with air, and mining it is illegal in all four kingdoms. The only reason I got hold of it because someone owed me a huge favor, and even then I didn't want to hold on to it for long. So when she asked for it, I gladly handed it over. To think, it was just sitting in my basement..."
"Wait, so do I have to hand this over to the police station or something?" Well, not like I was going to even if I had to. He unsheathed the blade, and the same charcoal color as Night's End came into view. The grip felt exactly like it as well; it was like looking at a scaled replica.
"Naw. Harvest of the material may be illegal, but weapons already made from it are okay. The material naturally cuts through Grimm, and if there is anything the Council can't resist, it's anti-Grimm weapons. Though, I'm sure they are tracked so counterfeits can't be made. If you know Ozpin, I'm sure he will take care of that for you."
Jaune took a look at the blade again. Once again, Master leaves me something amazing. Aren't you expecting too much of me? The thought reminded him of the letter in his pocket.
They step out of the backroom. Jaune sheaths his blade again while Junior locks the room. "Wait, you mentioned will. So does that mean she finally kicked the bucket?"
Jaune frowned. Choosing his words wisely, he decides to tell a small lie. "Yeah. She died fighting a Legendary Grimm. Took it down with her."
The man roared out a laugh. "That sounds just like her. Doing the insane, and being the big hero." There was nothing but respect in his voice.
They reached the bartender, where Junior gave him a small nod. "Kid, stay for a bit and have a drink with this old man. We can share stories. Plus, I doubt you want to read that letter sober."
Drinks were placed in front of them. They shared stories of how she once rode a Boarbatusk across town, and how she cut down half a forest to find one Grimm. How no one could argue with her when she got in a bad mood, and how she won a staring contest with an Ursa.
They were interrupted when a girl with long blonde hair walks up. She wore a short sleeved, low-cut tan vest, revealing her stomach. Tying her black shorts together was a brown belt, with several pouches. Her blue eyes seem calm, but investigative as she looks Junior up and down.
"Strawberry Sunrise. No ice." She orders, and the bartender walks away to make the drink. "Oh, and one of those little umbrellas." She added.
Junior looks at Jaune, who took the hint. The blonde walked away, taking a seat a few feet away, using the chance to read the letter.
Hey kid,
If you're reading this letter, I probably kicked the bucket before you were ready. The whole being unkillable thing is hard when I dive into danger every moment possible. It was probably only a matter of time, anyway. Anyway, this letter is my attempt to give you a bit of closure.
I know that you want to be like me. It was obvious; you copied my sword style, my interests, and even my way of talking. Despite my protests, you didn't stop, and I doubt you will even with my death. I left you in care of Ozpin; I hope he can convince you to do something else, but knowing the prick, he's probably going to set you towards my path. Unfortunately, he's the one person I trust the most, so you're stuck with him. But I really do hope you make meaning of your life without copying mine.
As for what I left you...I had planned on giving you that sword after you finished your training. But I guess I was being hopeful to see you grow up, huh?
Right! As for the name of the sword, seeing how it was a replica of Night's End, I used that for inspiration (Sorry it's a short sword. I couldn't get enough of that material. And Ozpin got REALLY angry that I made that sword, but I told him to suck it. If you're wondering why we didn't have electricity that one month, this was why. If there is hell, that was it). It's called...DAYBREAK. Clever, right? You know, at the end of night comes...never mind. The sheath has a slot for white dust, which it uses to sharpen and repair the blade. I don't really know how it works, but the glyph lady said so, and she hasn't steered me wrong before.
Mmm...I think that's all I want to say. As you remember, I'm really bad at farewells... GAH! Alright kid, just remember three things. One, forget about me in a year. I influenced you too much; it's about time you lived your own life. Two, don't forget the promises you make with yourself. Three, Rule #10! Enjoy every waking moment, no matter the high, despite the low! If you keep these three in mind, you'll turn out fine.
I'm be proud of you, Jaune.
Signed,
1019
PS. I was drunk when I made that name. Please rename it something else. It's going to be really embarrassing for you if you keep that name. I'm already writhing in agony remembering I wrote that.
PPS. If you aren't Jaune and reading this, you better start running. I'm going to hunt you for reading something this god damn embarrassing.
Jaune finished the letter, tears rolling down his face. The letter had everything he loves about her: the awkwardness, kindness, consideration, and recklessness. As the realization of her death finally sets in, tears cascade down his face. Wiping it with his sleeve, he finishes the drink and stands up.
I have to be strong. Even if she didn't want me to be like her, she was everything I admire. That will never change.
Finishing that thought, he hears a large crash behind him. Turning around he sees the blonde girl with her fist out. One of the glass cylinders is broken, with Junior is up against the wall.
I'm worried about him, but he should be okay with his Aura.
Jaune looks back at her, seeing her reload her gauntlets. Is...is that a Gauntlet Gun?
His question went unanswered when she jumps up in the air, and slams the ground, pushing away the guards that charged her.
IS SHE ON FIRE!?
A bright red aura surrounds the girl as she gets up with a smile, confident in her victory.
Charging at the nearest guard, she kicks one into the ground before he could react. With moves resembling boxing, she punches and kicks away all the guard running towards her. Using her gauntlet shots to change her momentum, she makes unpredictable movements, and the guards could not touch her.
Within a few seconds, all the guards around her were sent flying. Seeing this, the DJ pulls out a rifle, taking aim at the blonde.
As he pulls the trigger, she slides left and right while running towards the DJ, before using the gauntlet shot to launch herself upward, slamming into him. She grabs his head before he has a chance to respond, slamming his face against the record table.
The stopped music knocks Jaune out of his reverie.
Today has been a weird day.
Pocketing the letter, he starts running towards the girl before being blocked by two silhouettes.
"Melanie, who is this girl?" one of them said.
"I don't know Miltia, but we should teach her a lesson," the other one responded.
"Wait wait, please let me handle this," Jaune said, as he stepped in front of the two girls. Before the two have a chance to argue, the other blonde had already launched herself at them, firing her gauntlets in the air.
The three scatter, with Jaune rolling forward. The bullets hit the floor, sending debris flying around. With his current position, he was forced to immediately clash with the girl as she lands.
She throws a right straight aimed at his face. Seeing it as too fast to dodge, he pulls out Daybreak in his left land to deflect the attack. Not giving him any space, she immediately throws out a left hook.
This attack being slower, he took a step back to avoid it. Immediately switching the blade back to his dominant hand, he swing at her just outside the range of her fists.
The left gauntlet came up to block the attack, while the right one took aim at him, ready to fire a shot. Jaune reads it, and sidesteps to his right.
The shot comes out, immediately making a crater where he was just standing.
Abusing his range, he takes another swing, this time in an overhead arc. Once again, the left gauntlet came out to match. Using the same strategy, she tries to take another shot at him with her right gauntlet.
Predictable, he thought.
As she aims straight, he takes a step towards her, surprising the other blonde. She could not stop her swing. He takes advantage of this, as his left elbow clamps down on her right arm, placing her arm between his elbow and torso.
With both her arms incapacitated, he uses the opportunity to step forward again, wrapping his right leg against hers, and unbalances her.
Both people losing their footing, he uses the chance to push forward and they topple down towards her side. As they slam down on the ground, he uses the timing to pin her down.
"Well, I usually wait until after my third date before I," the girl is unable to finish the sentence as Jaune slams her left temple with the butt of his sword, knocking her out.
After making sure she is unconscious, he lets her go. Taking the handcuffs from his bag, he puts them on her with her hands behind her back.
I can't believe I get TWO uses out of them in one day! Wait. Isn't that a bad thing?
He gets up, pulling the girl up with him, slinging her across his right shoulder. Don't measure her weight, don't measure her weight...54 kg. DAMN IT.
He turns around to see the two girls that originally stopped him. Finally getting the chance to observe them, he notices that the two are twins, with contrasting features. While one had short hair, the other long. One had a red dress, the other white. Even their weapons mirrored each other, one having claws and the other bladed heels.
They mentioned their names in the beginning, but I could not for the love of me remember which was which...
The two walk up, and he can see Junior holding a bazooka following behind them. He doesn't seem to be injured. Jaune sighed in relief.
"You okay, kid? Didn't expect a crazy night like this, huh?"
"Am I okay? I should be asking you that! You...oh, ex-Hunter. Right." After a slight pause, he added, "Isn't the bazooka a tad excessive? That's probably going to do more damage than what she was going to do." He points toward the girl he is carrying.
"Well, at this point, it was a matter of pride more than anything else. Besides, I didn't think anything else was going to stop her."
The twins, not wanting to be ignored, spoke up. "Way to stop us showing off," the one in the red dress exclaimed. The girl in the white dress nodded, following up with a small pout.
That statement sent warning signals to his head. Something about showing off and spotlight...
"We would like to keep the spotlight off of you, especially with your unique powers," Glynda's voice echoed in his head.
THAT WAS A FEW HOURS AGO! If I get in trouble now...he was reminded of the month without electricity.
I won't be able to stay alive. No, at that point I would rather settle down and become a pig farmer, if it meant I got electricity!
The others became worried about his silence. "I...I don't blame you that much," the girl in the red dress said in an attempt to comfort him, before looking away.
"No choice. Can't explain." He tosses the blonde girl over to Junior. "Gotta run. You take care of this," he declares as he takes off running.
"Wait, but..." Junior was unable to finish his statement as Jaune was already at the exit.
"MAKE SOMETHING UP. I'LL COME BACK LATER!" the blonde dashes out, trying to escape the responsibility behind him.
After a few moments, as if it was scripted, sirens could be heard approaching Limelight.
Whew, and that's another chapter! I had actually intended on the meeting with RWBY in one chapter. But as I started writing it, adding in more of his backstory, his situation, and the descriptions, it dragged out. Well, at least I'm pretty sure that I should be able to finish it in three parts!
Ha...ha...Anyway, as always, I hope you guys enjoy this chapter. I'm finding it a bit difficult to write the fighting scenes, but I hope it sounds somewhat believable. With more practice, it should get easier. As always, please let me know your opinions so I can improve. *Small bow* Thanks for reading!