XIII (Revamped)

by Lelouch of the Rebellion

On a night filled with blood, a child with blond hair and sapphire eyes had felt true despair. His childhood, his innocence, his memories of those events... all shattered. That boy was Jaune Arc. However, he was then taken in by the Jaeger Program. A program designed to train the ultimate hunters. Jaune became its 13th and final member. 13 children...13 hunters...13 assassins.

5. Act IV: XIII Versus

XIII Versus

---

It was truly terrifying. The horrendous creature in front of the 8 students was known as a Death Bringer, an infamous A-class Grimm with the strength and blood lust of a hundred Death Stalkers. Only the most experienced of hunters can fight this creature and the margin that lives after a battle is even smaller. So how can eight students fight such a strong Grimm? It's inconceivable. Those were the thoughts that they all had. Even Nora and Yang who usually enjoyed battle knew they were way over their heads.

Jaune was the only one who wasn't paralyzed with fear. He knew that if he and the others are to survive they would have to work together. So with all the determination he could muster Jaune points the blade of Dark Repulser at the humanoid Grimm, the sword gleaming like moonlight. "Everyone get ready!"

They all look at Jaune, their expressions asking if he was serious. Did he actually believe that they could defeat a monster of such a high caliber? Did he actually believe that they could survive through this ordeal?

Since Jaune did not hear a reply he looks at his new friends. His eyes widen at the sight of the silent students.

His friends were terrified, the fear they felt causing them to be paralyzed. It was that look of fear that made the young assassin recall the first and most important lesson he learned from his mentor, Gilbert.

That lesson…

---

9 years ago.

A young Jaune Arc was currently seated in a classroom with only thirteen desks that surrounded a single holographic table with a man in black standing next to it.

Jaune wasn't paying attention to the other students as his attention was solely on his new mentor, Gilbert.

The man with black hair and dark eyes looks at his students with a smirk evoking amusement. His eyes convey approval of the group of children around him. All while lighting a cigarette for him to inhale.

"Welcome children this will be your first day of training." Gilbert takes his first puff and releases the smoke from his lungs, a cloud of smoke escaping his lips. He presses a few holographic keys and the roman numerals for 1 to 13 were present.

"Before you entered this program you were all given names by your parents, names which you should be proud of." His smile shifts into a frown however. This does not go unnoticed by the blond boy. "But as a member of this program you must abandon the name your parents gave you… the name that you are proud to have."

Gilbert presses another holographic key. The key pressed causes the roman numerals to appear in front of the children. In front of Jaune was XIII. The older assassin inhales the deadly tobacco again releasing the smoke moments later.

"This program is not simply a way for you to learn how to exterminate the Grimm. This program is a way for you to protect people." He looks at his apprentices apprehensively. "But most importantly. This program was created to give you purpose… to find the real you.

The words spoken cause the boy with blond locks to stare at his desk apathetically. But deep down Jaune was in turmoil. What is his purpose? What is he meant to accomplish?

Memories of his parents and siblings flood his mind the image of his affectionate parents smiling at him, holding him… loving him. The images of his sisters all playing with him caused him to almost succumb to his despair.

After one final puff Gilbert drops the white cigarette on the gray metal floor stepped on it with one black leather shoe and tore it to smoldering ash.

"Now then…" His gaze his centered on the young boy known as XIII. "Shall we get started?"

---

That lesson was to find his purpose. And his purpose was not only to eliminate monsters… but to protect others.

The memory causes Jaune to have a compassionate smile. His view was on the endless blue sky, the feel of the wind brushing pass him clearing his mind. He looks at the terrified teenagers his smile radiating kindness.

"Leave everything to me." A cube of transparent white light forms incasing his friends to protect them from harm while also insuring they do not interfere.

This causes his once fear driven friends to become worried and apologetic. Ruby starts hitting the transparent wall with her fists crying out to him but the wall made her inaudible.

His smile fades as he turns his head to face the creature in front of him. Jaune looks at the Death Bringer with hatred the drive to kill the monster and to protect his new friends fueling him.

The Death Bringer exhales steam from its mouth. As steam escapes the beast its right arm tears itself apart, its arm becomes black tentacles that move around wildly before forming and hardening into a black sword.

Without a moment's delay the assassin and beast clash causing a single explosion of wind to burst, the winter white blade vs. onyx steel. Sparks occasionally fly as the two swords are locked in their struggle.

The humanoid Grimm pushes Jaune back; he stumbles only for a moment and regains his stance. The Death Bringer attacks, its black sword being swung vertically.

The blond assassin deflects the strike with his own sword. The monster retaliates with a horizontal strike but Jaune blocks with relative ease and quickly forces the monster back. Using the opening to his advantage, Jaune lunges forth and impales the creature through the chest.

(Insert whatever badass music you wish to listen to.)

Despite being impaled the inhuman monster doesn't growl in pain or frustration. It grabs a hold of Dark Repulser and pulls it in, the sound of flesh being cut through filling the assassin's ears.

Now only a couple of movements away from each other the crimson eyes of the Death Bringer meet the cold sapphire eyes of Jaune. Despite his attack doing nothing to the monster he wasn't the least bit surprised.

The Death Bringer opens its mouth to roar; only crimson light could be seen from within its mouth.

Jaune quickly forces his sword out causing black blood to flood out of the beast's body. But the wound closes almost instantaneously. As Jaune retreats the Death Bringer follows after him. They clash blades matching each other's attacks perfectly. Violent gusts of winds and glaring sparks come to life with each clash.

The blond assassin deflects a sword strike and quickly cleaves the monster's sword arm off. The Death Bringer screeches from the pain, anger boiling inside it. In retaliation the monster swings its left arm only for the young blond to avoid the attack with a simple side step.

Before the Death Bringer can make another movement, Jaune's left palm illuminates a white light.

A bolt of white energy bursts from his palm hitting the Grimm and upon impact white nova erupts to life consuming the Death Bringer whole.

Jaune looks at the cloud of smoke apathetically having no form to speak of. He was standing tall with multiple openings confident that he was untouchable.

The smoke begins to dissipate, the silhouette of the creature coming into view. Within the smoke were the monster's glowing red eyes.

Black tentacles shoot out from the smoke and attempt to crush the blond assassin. However, Jaune vanishes in a flash of white light. The black tentacles hit the ground forming craters from each individual appendage.

Jaune appears above, his form graceful and stunning. His eyes that shared the color of the sky were closed as his concentration is directed towards his shoulder blades.

From the tentacles that hit the ground, more sprout out and shoot towards the now midair, Jaune.

As his eyes were still closed he utters a few words. Moments later his aura extends from his shoulder blades his white wings were bursting causing angelic white feathers to fall occasionally giving him the appearance of an angel.

Before the tentacles could make their mark, Jaune shifts his body to dodge the attack. He flies away from the demonic black limbs with speed that rivaled Ruby's.

As he dodged one appendage two more would be given life and extend from the previous one which were aimed at the angelic assassin.

Jaune's aerial ballet was incredible despite it being in the middle of a battle. He was displaying speed, beauty and grace on the aerial battlefield.

As one of the hideous tentacles reaches for Jaune, he quickly knocks it away with his right wing, a pulse of white energy being created when it hits.

More tentacles burst from the smoke the number of appendages now over a dozen which surround, Jaune.

As they enclose on him, Jaune flies straight at one of the appendages. He flaps his wings once giving him enough speed to make him seem like a shooting star, a trail of white feathers being left behind as he's in motion.

The shooting star (Jaune) pierces through the flesh cutting the limb off blood-red smoke escaping the now two severed limbs.

However, the blood-red smoke from the tentacle dissipates and suddenly a new limb bursts out.

The new limb along with the other ones attack the angel clad in black. However, Jaune avoids the attacks with ease rolling out of the way, doing aerial flips and even cutting through the tentacles with his sword and wings. However, the latter causes the severed limbs to regenerate soon after to resume its attacks not giving Jaune much breathing room.

As Jaune continues to avoid the attacks he internally curses to himself. He knew he was at a disadvantage. But despite this he couldn't give up. His fellow peers were counting on him and he wouldn't let them down.

But more than anything he just wanted to eradicate the demon. Its mere presences disgusted the blonde angel.

Jaune dodges another barrage of attacks but his once graceful movements were strained due to the Death Bringer adapting and learning his movements.

'The difference between B-class Grimm and A-class Grimm is like night and day!' Jaune dodges another strike and accelerates away. 'While Grimm in the B category, have incredible strength and speed an A-class not only has that but also has incredible intelligence in the beginning of its life span.'

The angelic assassin flies even higher in the air as he avoids the Grimm's appendages. 'While Grimm that are B-class and lower start out mindless and take time to develop intelligence. An A-class Grimm begins with a high intellect which grows even more during its lifetime making them even more of a threat.'

Jaune sharply turns towards the approaching tentacles his wings become more brilliant and vivid. From his wings, white feathers shoot out tearing the flesh off from the demonic appendages, blood-red smoke escaping the dozens of wounds being inflicted.

However, as soon as the injuries are made they heal a moment later making Jaune's efforts all in vain. But he doesn't give up he stops firing off feathers and charges forth. As he flies forward his speed causes him to resemble a brilliant star.

He cleaves through limb after limb; they fall to the ground causing the earth to shake. But after mere seconds the giant limbs burst new life.

Jaune glares at the newly spawned appendages. 'But worst of all. A Grimm that's designated A-class has inhuman regenerative abilities.'

The tentacles lunge at Jaune yet again. The assassin displays annoyance with a quick scowl. He accelerates towards the limbs with Dark Repulser in hand. He prepares to cut through but stops preparing his thrust knowing full well that he would only waste energy.

He glares at the appendages before dodging each and every one with mild difficulty. However, as he escapes four tentacles appear, from the left, right, above and below. As they inch closer…

Jaune vanishes in a flash of white light, a few white feathers appearing where he once was.

The teleporting angel reappears gaining some distance between him and the towering appendages, is blue eyes glaring at beast's limbs.

---

5 years ago

Jaeger Program Facility

Classroom

XIII- Age 12

XIII was currently in class going through one of Gilbert's boring but informative lectures. Despite respecting the man for his talents as both a killer and a teacher he was not a very exciting teacher.

With cigarette in mouth, Gilbert was going through various types of Grimm. The lesson of the day focusing on the A-class Grimm known as "Death Bringer"

"A Death Bringer is probably the most common of the A-class Grimm. Out of the nine different A-class variants, the Death Bringer is among the weakest." He inhales the tobacco, exhaling a cloud of smoke soon after. "But do not get mistaken. They are still Grimm that are rank A. This is a monster that you cannot face alone unless you have a wide variety of abilities or a method of continuous damage."

Gilbert takes hold of his white cigarette and places it in the ash tray on his desk. After that he goes to the holographic table and presses a few keys. The image of a Death Bringer comes to life, revealing its various stats.

Endurance: A+

Strength: A-

Speed: B+

Intelligence: B+

"Death Bringer's are quite tenacious. They adapt quickly to any given situation. And because of their tenacity they can recover from the same attack quicker than before." He looks at his students with a stern gaze informing them that his next words were very important. "So in order to eliminate this creature and others of the same level you must to be able to use a wide variety of different techniques. If you can't do that… then you're as good as dead."

---

Jaune sighs at the memory. He didn't want to show off so much of his power but his hand has been forced. He exhales once calming his breath so he can concentrate.

His body illuminates white light and his angelic wings become more vivid and bright. As his body shines heavenly light the Death Bringer's appendages burst forward.

As the limbs approach Jaune, he lifts Dark Repulser into the air, the blade pointed up to the sky his white aura being channeled to his blade. As his sword shines gold runic symbols appear along the length of the blade.

"Now…" Jaune said with determination.

His wings condense and white feathers scatter away as his wings channel their aura to his sword. Despite his wings disappearing he remains in the air his sword being wrapped by white nova.

As the tentacles were moments away from hitting he swings his blade downward.

And at that moment all the aura he had absorbed and condensed comes rushing out, being released from the tip of his blade magnifying the slash attack which flies forward taking the shape of a wave.

The wave of white aura swallows the black limbs whole, they disintegrate leaving no trace of its existence. But the wave makes its way towards the huge cloud of smoke, where the Death Bringer is and at the moment of impact an eruption of holy nova bursts into life, a single pillar of white light that reaches the stratosphere being formed as a result.

As the light loses power and shrinks, Jaune was falling due to the lack of wings. But instead of forming a new pair of wings he teleports to where the explosion was, reappearing on the ground.

His gaze is set on the multiple chunks of flesh that littered the ground, blood-red smoke escaping the severed limbs.

However, the flesh of the monster starts to shake uncontrollably and from the severed limbs thin veins come to life and begin connecting with one another.

As the creature was sewing itself back together, Jaune quickly glides his hand over the length of his blade, chanting something inaudible. After finishing his incantation his once ivory blade turns crimson, bright red runic symbols appear along the length of the blade and the dust crystal on the hilt of his blade becomes the same color.

Not only that but his entire appearance changes. His once bright blonde hair becomes auburn and his stunning blue eyes are as red as Yang's (When she's angry.). Red aura bursts around his body, the crimson energy causing the air around him to become dense.

Jaune slams his blade on the ground; a wave of fire is unleashed from the tip of his crimson blade. The wave of crimson flames hits the scattered remains of the Death Bringer causing a massive explosion of raging nova to be unleashed.

When the explosion dies down, flames that burn flesh and earth reflect off of Jaune's crimson eyes.

As the scattered remains attempt to join together the hellish flames halt it burning newly created tissue the moment it spawns. But to Jaune's dismay the Death Bringer's remains somehow fuse back despite the fires that he created.

Jaune scowls at the reforming creature. "So you've already adapted to the flames." Suddenly, his sword gleams a cyan light the crystal from his blade now the same color but was illuminated more brilliantly.

The red hair that Jaune adopted also changes, starting from the roots of his hair it turns bright blue while his fire eyes cool down to become ice blue (resembling Weiss' eyes), his glare at the regenerating Grimm just as cold.

Weiss' ice blue eyes widen at the sight of the dust crystal, Jaune was using. "An Infinitas dust crystal! But how?!" Despite the fear she was feeling her thoughts were on this so called Infinitas dust crystal.

"Infinita what now?" The youngest member of the group asked surprised that she didn't know a weapon.

"It's a dust crystal with the properties of every other known dust crystal. The power that one has can power an entire city without ever even dying out." Her eyes were set on, Jaune the whole time as she explains. 'Having that crystal in his arsenal makes him an even more efficient huntsman. However,' Her ice blue eyes hold a glare as cold as her sister's name. 'But there are only 3 known crystals of that type that are known. Two belong to my family while the last crystal is held by the military in Atlas. So how… how does he have one?'

Jaune quickly stabs the ground sending a wave of ice forward. The incomplete Grimm is frozen in place vulnerable for the blond assassin to shatter it.

Jaune quick draws Ebony, the black pistol aimed at the frozen Grimm. The scrollwork on the bore of the pistol illuminates holy white light before he pulls the trigger and a white aura round is shot out, the force of the aura bullet shattering the ice completely, leaving only small dust of ice that gleam like stardust.

After pulling the trigger, Jaune drops his arm his pistol now aimed at the ground, exhaustion taking over him. As he's breathing tiredly a bead of sweat pouring down his forehead. Jaune removes Dark Repulser from the ground and places it in the sheath on his back.

He turns to his stunned comrades, who were all staring at the blond in black. He strides towards the group of 7 with an apathetic expression. They were so impressed with Jaune's display of abilities that they almost didn't notice how exhausted he was.

'I haven't needed to exert myself like this in quite some time.'

As Jaune is walking towards his fellow classmates he suddenly halts due to an unknown force making contact with him. Blood suddenly splatters on the ground in front of Jaune. For some reason there was a faint pain in his abdomen, it was so faint that he almost couldn't feel it.

Jaune looks down at his stomach to see something that should not be there. A sharp black rod had pierced his flesh which barely missed his left kidney.

The faint pain from earlier intensifies at the moment his gaze his set on the black metal, the pain rushing him like a wave. He coughs out his own blood which hits the ground joining the rest of his splattered blood.

Jaune grabs hold of the black rod, his grasp on it weak and shaky and he begins pulling on the ebony metal, the searing pain he was already feeling intensifying a hundredfold.

As he's pulling the metal out a dark presence reforms behind him. Due to the pain he was experiencing he seemingly doesn't notice.

Behind the young Arc was the Death Bringer fully regenerated the creature's left arm now a black sword. It brings its sword up to deal the finishing blow on the unsuspecting Arc.

As the humanoid Grimm prepares its sword thrust, the rest of the group shouts their friend's name hoping that he could hear them, but to no avail. The protective cube that, Jaune set up earlier prevented their voices from being heard.

The Death Bringer thrusts its blade downward.

At that exact moment the blond assassin has a devilish smirk.

Jaune's index finger illuminates his white aura, he lightly touches the end of the rod and a pulse of white energy bursts to life, causing the rod to shoot out of him and through his back resulting in the black rod to impale the user.

The Death Bringer stops its attack due to the force of the unexpected attack. Jaune quickly turns towards the impaled monster, a loud shout being voiced by the assassin.

Jaune brings his right fist back, ready to punch the demon in front of him. As his fist goes through the motion a holy white bracelet spawns. The bracelet expands causing the sound of metal shifting to be heard. The white metal covers Jaune's hand and forearm in the shape of a gauntlet acting as an arm guard (Resembling Yang's Ember Celica perfectly save for the color.)

Jaune's gauntlet fist connects with the Death Bringer's chest, at that exact moment Jaune fires off a white aura explosive round causing an explosive pulse of white aura to erupt. The humanoid Grimm crashes through the ground like a ragdoll not showing any sign of recovering.

It crashes into a tree knocking it down in the process.

As Jaune holds the arm guard he created it shatters the shards of his aura that resemble glass and stardust fall to the ground.

After his creation shatters his body continues to glow white light. The stab wound from earlier completely healed leaving no scar to speak of a fact that would cause Weiss to be slightly jealous.

"ROOOOOOAAAAAAAARRRRRRR!"

Violent gusts of wind fiercely blow at Jaune causing him to narrow his eyes slightly due to how unbearable the wind was.

The Death Bringer bursts up both its arms now black swords. But unlike last time the swords have red markings on the blades. It lunges at, Jaune with inhuman speed.

Jaune draws Ebony and Ivory and fires off low power high rate of fire aura rounds. The Death Bringer deflects bullet after bullet with its blades as it continues with its advance.

Knowing that his shots would do nothing at that point, he simultaneously pulls down on the hammers of Ebony and Ivory. As the twin pistols unfold and their blades extend to become blades, he gets in his stance flipping both of his short swords, holding them in a reverse grip.

He sprints towards the attacking Grimm and clash blades. They match blow to blow. Jaune's sword thrusts were not only quick and powerful but were masterfully performed. While the Death Bringer matched the first two accomplishments it lacked technique and was wildly swinging its swords around.

Jaune parries a sword thrust, a small gash on the Death Bringer's chest as a result. Seconds later it heals much to Jaune's agitation.

The dual swordsman blocks another sword thrust from the Grimm, Jaune's ivory blade locked with the Death Bringer's black and crimson blade.

Jaune flips Ebony (which is in his other hand) and was now holding it in a normal grip. He thrusts his blade forward impaling the creature. The beast drops its guard allowing, Jaune to perform another strike. He reverses the grip he has on Ivory to match his hold on Ebony and swiftly cleaves the monster's head off.

Blood-red smoke escapes the wound as it the now decapitated creature begins to fall to the ground. However, as the creature was collapsing it suddenly swings its blade again despite the loss of its head which hits nothing, due to Jaune vanishing in a white flash, reappearing in front of his friends.

The Death Bringer's neck sprouts black veins that begin forming into a replacement for the head it lost previously. The speed of the regeneration was incredible, its head taking form in a matter of seconds.

The Death Bringer, now new and improved has its demonic crimson eyes on Jaune. Said Arc reforms the twin swords to their twin pistol form. Jaune then places them in their holsters.

"Looks like I need to change it up a bit." The blond assassin said, both calmly and threatening.

Jaune brings his right hand out, his open palm facing the Death Bringer. A faint white light illuminates from his hand, a sphere of holy white light appears with silver runic symbols appearing around the orb.

In a flash of white light, the orb of aura that Jaune created changes to a sword with an engine for a hilt, the blade bright silver.

Jaune disappears in a white flash leaving no trace of his existence.

As the Death Bringer looks around for its prey, another white flash appears behind the creature.

Jaune was a few inches off the ground; his right hand (that's holding the created sword) is prepared to swing at the creature. He swings his sword only for it to meet with black metal.

The Death Bringer blocks the strike with its sword arm. As Jaune's sword was in a blade struggle with the humanoid Grimm, Jaune unexpectedly revs the motorcycle like handle of his sword. His sword heats up tremendously, a bright orange light illuminating off the sword. The heat of the blade burns through the black sword leaving a small puff of smoke to rise off from the broken sword.

The heated sword cuts through the Death Bringer. The hot sting of his sword causes the menacing creature to screech in pain.

As, Jaune, prepares for another strike the injured Grimm jumps back regenerating in the process.

Jaune glares at the Death Bringer. His sapphire eyes cold and threatening while his lips form a sneer as his blade shatters, white shards of light floating away as a result.

"When will you just die?!"

Brilliant stardust surrounds Jaune as white aura flares from his body. The shards of white light encircle him and slowly begin to expand. A sound similar to ice being created was heard.

Surrounding, Jaune was a dozen ethereal swords that are transparent like glass they almost resemble ice. The blades which resemble glass take on a physical form, the once transparent blades now solid steel. They hover around him and point their blades at the Death Bringer. Each sword that was pointed at the monster was unique in its creation, no two swords were alike.

Suddenly one of Jaune's many blades shoots forth impaling the humanoid Grimm's chest. The speed of the blade was too quick for the Death Bringer to react.

Before the impaled Grimm could move a single inch all of Jaune's aura forged swords burst forth, the cold steel puncturing the Death Bringer's white bone plated armor with ease. Sword after sword was lodged in the creature.

The once terrifying creature was now groveling on the ground, the dozen blades that pierced its flesh and bone taking its toll. The inhuman monster would soon be no more.

Or so Jaune thought.

The Death Bringer suddenly screeches the high pitch roar pierces, Jaune's ear drums causing him to cover his ears while his eyes were still on the shouting monster.

The blades that were lodged inside the beast crack, which extends each second until they finally shatter into brilliant stardust. The moment the blades were no more, the Death Bringer stops screeching.

The wounds on the human sized Grimm begin to heal at a rapid pace. As the wounds are sewn together, Jaune's calculating eyes are set on the regenerating wounds, noticing an important fact.

The young assassin smirks, knowing full well that he was close to victory. And with that smirk, twelve swords come to life, each with their own unique appearances.

Jaune unsheathes Dark Repulser, adding on to his arsenal of twelve to become thirteen.

Without a moment's delay, Jaune rushes towards the human sized Grimm. His summoned swords circling around him, he grabs one of his swords, and began dual wielding.

He does an X-slash, followed by many sword thrusts from his hovering blades. Using telekinesis and actual swordplay he begins overwhelming the humanoid Grimm with his flawless technique.

Jaune impales the Death Bringer with the summoned sword in his left hand. He releases his grip on the handle of the sword and teleports back a great distance.

After he reappears his remaining swords encircle the monster. He brings his hand out, his open palm facing the Death Bringer. Jaune closes his hand into a fist causing the swords around the beast to enclose on the creature.

The beast feels the sting of 11 blades piercing its flesh and bone. But the creature's painful experience with the blades is cut short; the swords begin radiating holy white aura, resembling fire that would soon combust.

The holy blades erupt in white flames engulfing the creature. The fierce wind from the explosion causes the blond assassin's hair and black attire to move violently.

The explosion dies down revealing that the Death Bringer was severely injured; its body was completely devastated by the intense attack. But just like before its injuries heal with relative ease. However, its impressive regenerative speed from before was far more sluggish but maintained a swift recovery rate.

The beast stands tall ready to continue the fight. Jaune in turn glares at the recovered Grimm. The fact of the matter is Jaune was growing tired of this battle and wanted to finish this now.

In response, the Death Bringer growls, preparing an attack for the blond assassin. From its two horns that were facing towards Jaune, crimson energy builds up forming a sphere that was almost uncontrollable.

Jaune's sapphire eyes widen realizing what the monster was preparing to do. But before he can react and stop the monster. The energy that the Death Bringer created condenses and bursts into life, a large beam of crimson energy being released from its horns.

The massive amount energy that the powerful creature unleashed was swiftly avoided by Jaune teleporting away at the right moment. He was high in the sky.

As the black clad assassin was beginning his decent he notices that the crimson energy was not meant for him…

But for the barrier that protected his classmates.

Before Jaune can stop the attack; the energy collides with the barrier. The struggle between the two energies unleashes fierce wind and pulses of crimson and white energy burst to life.

But the display would not last forever. The barrier of white aura begins to crack the sound of glass beginning to break apart as a result. As the barrier falters, Jaune swiftly channels his aura throughout his entire body. White light flares and begins to take shape. But before anyone could see what his aura was going to form he collides with the red beam causing a massive explosion to come to life allowing the barrier to be saved.

Only for a few moments though.

The barrier shatters. Shards of glass like aura fall to the ground, which shatter even further. Thankfully, the seven onlookers were safe from harm without a single injury to be found. But despite being saved instead of being relieved they're filled with worry. Their worries directed towards their blond savior.

Jaune was on one knee covered in injuries, with his blood pouring down on the grassy ground. His jet black clothing was in shreds. His black trench coat was gone, and his black shirt was in tatters, revealing some of his skin (which in turn reveals how physically fit he is). There is also a hole in his pants which reveals his left knee.

"Damn, I didn't apply enough aura to absorb the blast." He slowly begins to get up, the pain he was feeling almost too much for him to bear. His whole body begins shaking from how painful and difficult it was to try and stand. But he pulls through and stands tall evoking confidence and determination.

However, despite such a display of courage it cannot be denied that Jaune would lose this battle.

The Death Bringer begins its slow advance towards the blond assassin. It was instilling fear into the seven students behind, Jaune. However, that said blond was not intimidated by the beast despite being the target. His blue eyes held their malice and determination that it had since the beginning.

As Jaune and the Death Bringer were facing off, Ruby notices something odd.

"Why isn't Jaune healing himself?"

The young girl's question was swiftly answered by the Mistral champion for four years in a row. "It's because his aura reserves are finally at their limit." Pyrrha's emerald eyes gaze at Jaune in worry as she said this.

"Another reason is because he needs to conserve what aura he has to keep fighting." The two girls in red look at the owner of the voice which is the only other male in the group.

Ren's hands enclose in fists for being so useless. 'Jaune, forgive me…' His magenta eyes shut, hating the fact that he was doing nothing for his new friend. And why is that? Because of something as trivial as fear? Fear, an emotion every huntsman and huntress must be liberated from if they are to succeed.

As the Death Bringer was inching closure to Jaune, he began formulating different strategies in hopes of winning. However, each plan he created was soon shot down, for he knew that any plan he executed would fail due to his exhausted aura reserves.

'No matter what I do there's no way I can come out of this alive. Unless I resort tothat.'

Jaune quickly shoves the thought away. It was against protocol to break the seal. If he were to remove what limits him there's no doubt that he'd win. However…

'If I were to remove it they would know that I'm more than just a regular student. I can't allow that to happen no matter what. I've been displaying too much of my power as it is.'

The tired Arc looks towards his newly made friends. They were all afraid still paralyzed by fear unable to even lift a finger. And it was because of this that he knew that they wouldn't be of any help. So with a tired smile that was filled with compassion and sadness Jaune utters his final words.

"Run… run and don't look back no matter what." His blue eyes, the tone in his voice and even the way he was standing, showed sadness as he said these words. But what stood out the most was not the despair he evoked. But it was the determination to ensure their safety that they noticed.

"Go…" Jaune's lips begin to quiver, his strong and calculating eyes beginning to water somewhat. His eyes were becoming glassy as he looks at his friends pleadingly. "If I can at least save a life… then I can die peacefully."

He lied to himself. He was afraid… afraid to die. Yet, despite his fear he pushed the emotion aside. The blond assassin didn't want to die, but he was willing to. If it ensured their survival then he would use his fear for death to drive him to buy them time.

Everyone, including Weiss who despised him in the beginning… they all wanted to help. They didn't want to leave Jaune alone against a foe he cannot defeat. To leave him with a monster that would kill him without hesitation.

They ran…

But not to the man they wanted to save. But towards the route that would lead them to safety, because even though they wanted to help… their fear is what drove them.

So they ran… they ran away. Leaving Jaune Arc… XIII, to die.

As they run, Jaune stands his ground still willing to fight. He has a gentle smile, overjoyed that they were running. "Good… now I can die without any regrets."

He runs towards the beast, spawning a sword in the process. He closes the distance quickly and swings his sword.

The Death Bringer deflects the sword strike with ease causing Jaune's grasp on the blade to be released. The sword that was sent flying impales the ground moments later. It lingers for some time before fading away.

The inhuman monster grabs Jaune's neck without a moment's delay and begins strangling the life out of him. His hands grasped the beast's arm.

As the Death Bringer begins ending the blond assassin's life, he began having visions of his life.

Visions of his family, the family he loved so much, visions of his father who he admired and of his mother who he adored. And of course… his beloved sisters that he cherished.

'Mother… Father… my beloved sisters… I'm sorry.'

Visions of his friends in the Jaeger Program, the people he viewed as his closest friends and his greatest rivals, visions of his mentor, Gilbert training him, remembering how ruthless yet kind he was to him and the other members of the program.

'I've failed you all as well… you would be ashamed of me, Gilbert.' Jaune's lips form a sorrowful smile, knowing that he would soon meet his end.

Visions of his godparents, Ozpin and Glynda, the two people he cared about most appeared. Ozpin, the man he wanted to become in both strength and knowledge, the man he saw as a father. And of course, Glynda, the woman who was both kind and strict who became his new mother.

Fresh tears were beginning to fall giving Jaune's blue eyes a glassy appearance.

'I've failed you too. Glynda, Ozpin. I just wish that I could have called you mom and dad. At least once…'

It was growing more difficult to breathe, taking in air was almost as difficult as keeping his tiring eyes from closing. His tenacity would soon diminish though in a matter of moments.

'That's all I want.'

His eyes prepare to close, fully prepared for his eternal slumber.

---

Fear, anguish, sadness and regret.

Those were the arrangement of emotions everyone was feeling as they were running back to Beacon. The monster they were almost forced to fight giving them chills by the mere thought of it.

As they were running, images of the blonde who's risking his life for them came rushing to them. How could they just leave him? He's willing to sacrifice himself for their wellbeing and they've only known each other for a day.

The one most heartbroken over deserting Jaune was Ruby, who was shedding tears as she was running. She was no longer the innocent, carefree girl that willing to fight any opponent. She was now a scared little girl who was afraid of a monster.

'Jaune, I'm so sorry! But I'm just so scared!'

As they were running, the sound of feet sliding to a complete stop causes Ruby and the others to stop as well. Ruby turns to see Pyrrha behind everyone looking back at the direction they came from.

Before Ruby or anyone could question her, Pyrrha starts running back. Everyone shouts at her to comeback, which are cries on deaf ears.

"Pyrrha, he's not worth it!" It was Weiss who shouted this. Those words cause the great champion to come to a screeching stop. The redhead was motionless at first. But she sharply turns towards the heiress, her emerald eyes holding determination and regret.

"Pyrrha?" Weiss questioned.

"Don't say that!" Pyrrha began with an exclamation. "He's risking his life for us at this very moment! Despite knowing us for only a day he's willing to give up everything for us to live on!" Tears begin to fall from the invincible girl. "So don't say he isn't worth it! Because… because he's more of a hunter than anyone of us!"

Her words held such conviction. The mistral champion's resolve reached her fellow peers that for a moment it conquered their fear.

After her words, Pyrrha Nikos the invincible girl ran back to Jaune Arc.

As Weiss stares in awe at the retreating champion she almost fails to notice the lotus boy and his bubbly friend run past her. She along with the other girls looks at the retreating duo with slight awe.

As Ren and Nora are running, the girl in pink stops and looks back as a wide smile graces her features. "What are you waiting for?! We need to hurry up and save Jaune!" She starts running again quickly catching up with her best friend.

As the three now determined hunters in training run back to the battlefield Ruby's once saddened silver eyes hold determination. She looks at her sister smiling at her. Yang returns the smile knowing full well what her younger sister had in mind.

"Alright guys who's ready to save Jaune?!" The red cloaked scythe wielder shouted with newfound cheerfulness.

"I'm fired up!" Yang exclaimed.

Blake simply nods a smile also forming upon her lips.

Weiss however was simply stunned, her fear still causing her to only think about escape. She couldn't how a single life could outweigh all of theirs'.

"But that's a Death Bringer back there!" Weiss began. "We can't face something like that at our level! We're just students!"

Ruby and the others turn their back on her prepared to go regardless. Ruby was the only one to respond to her saying "It doesn't matter if we're not a high enough level to help. As huntresses, we have to be willing to risk it all for others."

And with those inspiring words Ruby along with Yang and Blake run back to Jaune in hopes of making it in time, leaving Weiss alone to contemplate what to do.

"This is just stupid…" The heiress began. "He's just one person." Weiss too began running. She ran through the forest with haste. Her urgency caused her to be even faster than Ruby and the others. But she never catches up with them.

Because she was still running back to safety… back to Beacon.

---

Jaune's life would soon end his consciousness beginning to fade. He hated it the fact that his journey would end here. But despite that he gave up because at least he saved the lives of his fellow students.

'All I've ever wanted was to bring happiness to others, happiness that I will never be able to grasp. I wanted to protect people from the despair that I was forced to face.' A smile forms. 'In my final moments I was able to achieve this. That makes me…'

His eyes close to embrace eternal darkness…

'Happy'

It was dark… so very dark. But he didn't mind. As an assassin the darkness is comforting. No one can see him for what he is. A killer… a monster… a demon.

He could see only darkness…

And Jaune Arc was content with this. He enjoyed this place void of light.

'First comes destruction'

A blaze of hell fire lights the darkness causing a single image of corpses littering a town to appear in his mind. Lifeless bodies of all the people he held dear were there. His deceased family, the Jaeger Program members, Ozpin and Glynda.

'First comes destruction…'

His eyes snap open a pentagram with reddish hue appearing over his once blue pupils.

'No… I can't die now! Not when these inhuman monsters still exist!'

A crimson glyph with the symbol similar to that of his eyes appears on his exposed chest. "First comes destruction." He said, his voice was different yet identical at the same time. His voice and tone were much darker and held even more malice.

The glyph suddenly has a large crack. "I create nothing…" The glyph has yet another large crack and would soon shatter like glass.

As Jaune was continuing this ritual, the sound of gunfire breaks him out of his concentration. His crimson eyes along with the pentagram over his pupils disappear returning to their stunning sapphire.

A bronze and red javelin suddenly impales the Death Bringer's shoulder causing the beast to lose its hold on Jaune. The blonde assassin starts gasping for the air he was previously cut off from. As he regains his breath his blood red glyph disappears without a trace.

Jaune (while still breathing heavily) looks towards the source of the gunshot (and where the javelin was thrown from) to see Pyrrha with her shield ready.

Before Jaune can reprimand her for coming back his widen even more.

They came back.

Pyrrha

Ruby

Blake

Yang

Ren

Nora

They all returned to him with the exception of Weiss.

As he gets up, he is engulfed in a white light and teleports to them. When he reappears in front of them he falls on one knee due to how exhausted he kneels next to her partner helping him up which proved to be very difficult for the injured assassin.

"Why are you all here? I told you to leave."

Ruby walks up to her first friend with a smile. "We couldn't just leave you there, Jaune. You're our friend."

"Besides, we couldn't just let you be the only hero of the day." Yang added as she cracks her knuckles.

The other blond smiles, appreciating their return but notices the absence of the Schnee heiress causing a sad smile to form knowing the reason. "So Weiss is still running." While the others were obviously disappointed with the snow angel Jaune quickly dismisses it.

"It's only natural. Fear is something that most people can never overcome. So it's okay, because a person can become so much stronger when they accept their fear. They can grow in ways that far surpass those who blindly fight it." Jaune smiles the reason unbeknownst to his fellow classmates.

"ROOOOAAAAAAAARRRRR!"

The booming shout from the beast takes gets the attention of the 7 hunters in training. The menacing creature takes hold of the well crafted javelin in its shoulder and begins removing it. Blood-red smoke escapes its wound as it removes the metal. And with a quick motion the beast removes the crimson/bronze spear. Smoke rises from the stained blood on the weapon.

Jaune narrows his calculating eyes at the seemingly invincible monster. "If we're going to win I need you to do exactly what I tell you." They all nod knowing full well that the injured blonde was their best shot at winning.

Without a warning the Death Bringer starts sprinting at the 7 students.

"Yang. Nora, intercept!" Jaune ordered.

The two powerhouses follow the blonde's order and rush forward meeting the Death Bringer in combat. Nora was to the monster's right while Yang was to its left.

Yang attacks first connecting a series of quick jabs emitting flashes of light that resemble explosions.

As the blonde brawler punches away the hammer wielder shouts out prompting Yang to duck out of the way. Nora jumps over the blonde and swings her hammer at the Death Bringer hitting it with all her strength. The impact causes a shockwave of pink energy to erupt to life causing the humanoid Grimm to make impact with the hard ground.

The Death Bringer recovers, standing tall only for it to receive more punishment by Yang's flaming shells and Nora's pink grenades explosions of pink and fire mixing together in a brilliant spectacle, but from the powerful explosions the Death Bringer (with Pyrrha's javelin in hand) attacks the powerhouse duo.

The monster thrusts the spear at Yang. However, the blade hits the bronze shield of Pyrrha Nikos. The red head pushes forward causing the monster to lose its grip on her spear and as it's in the air she takes hold of her weapon.

She begins slashing at the creature she fears twirling her spear around for fast and deadly slashes while occasionally performing strong swings and thrusts. To end her deadly attack combination, Pyrrha uses her shield to bash the creature away and fires her javelin giving it a great increase of speed and power. The boost from firing her javelin pierces the Death Bringer's chest.

"Ren hit the javelin!" Jaune quickly ordered.

Ren runs towards the creature using his aura to propel him forward even faster. As the Death Bringer tries to swipe him away he jumps over the beast. While the Grimm turns to counter him the lotus boy quickly channels a large amount of his magenta aura to his right palm. His arm swiftly pushes forward and his aura channeled palm hits the javelin forcing it to push forward and pierce through its body, a shockwave of his pink aura comes to life causing the beast's chest to ripple and expand until its chest blows apart in a black mess leaving a massive hole where its chest once was.

The spear also comes back to its master as she catches it with ease.

"Pyrrha start shooting! Don't let the Death Bringer regenerate! Ren, fall back and conserve your aura!"

They do so, Pyrrha mecha-shifts her javelin to its hunting rifle form firing her red shots that do little damage to the Death Bringer but is able to slow its regeneration.

Ren jumps back to the tactician obviously exhausted from the excessive amount of aura he used.

"Ruby, you and Blake need you to help Pyrrha slow it's regeneration down! Use your speed to cut it down!"

"Right!" Ruby replied with while Blake silently nods. The two fastest members of the group rush towards the downed Grimm. They start hacking away, Blake with her black sword and Ruby using her deadly scythe. A flurry of rose petals and shadows were dancing around the Death Bringer as its body was being cut down.

However, it would not last long. The beast's deadly body sprouts black steel rods that force the girls to retreat and uses the opportunity to heal its deformed body.

"This thing just doesn't know when to die." Jaune calmly stated as he takes a step forward. Pain rushes towards his body from the single movement. Falling on one knee the blonde assassin mentally curses. 'Damn, my body won't do what I want it to do. Not only that, but my aura hasn't regenerated yet. I'll need the others to distract the Death Bringer for a while longer until I can get back into the fight.'

Despite how worried everyone was for Jaune they maintained their attention on the creature in front of them with their weapons aimed. They would have to fight for the blond clad in black.

Ruby narrows her stunning silver eyes at the terrifying monster. Having the end of her weapon's barrel facing behind her she pulls the trigger using the recoil to propel her towards the Death Bringer.

"RUBY WAIT!" Jaune shouted not wanting the young girl to take any actions unless informed too.

Ruby and the beast clash blades. The Death Bringer swings its sword arms at the young prodigy only for them to be guarded by her scythe.

Ruby suddenly swings her scythe in a fluid motion the edge of her blade around the beast's waist. She smirks pulling the trigger of Crescent Rose and cleaves the monster in half using the force of the powerful recoil.

However, like the multiple attempts from before to cut the monster down it begins to sew itself back together.

Ruby attempts to halt its regeneration by firing off rounds (the blade of the scythe is embedded in the ground to prevent the recoil from pushing her back.) but proves ineffective as the creature was whole again.

As Ruby begins to retreat the A-class Grimm sprints towards her and punches the girl's abdomen knocking the wind out of her. But the creature also grabs her collar and slams her to the hard earth.

Blood escapes the young girl's mouth as her entire body was screaming in pain. She couldn't move a finger without the pain growing in intensity.

The Death Bringer looms over the pained girl with bloodlust filling the air. Black steel sprouts from its arm ready to deal the finishing blow.

With the Death Bringer's sword arm rose, Ruby looks up at the sky. Visions of simpler, happy times take over her mind. Tears begin to fall as the floodgates of despair burst open.

Yang and the others rush over to hopefully intervene. But despite applying all their energy to their legs they were still far too slow to change the outcome.

'Is this how it all ends? Dying before I can even become a huntress.' Death was on her door steps. She knew this yet for some reason the despair she was feeling vanishes and in the wake came relief and acceptance. 'Maybe I can finally meet her…'

And like that, Ruby Rose shut her eyes in anticipation for her eternal slumber.

The beast swings its sword down to end the young girl's life.

But instead of fresh blood being shed or the sound of flesh being cut the beast's blade hits a clear like crystal that would form during winter.

---

Jaune's eyes widen the sight before him truly a god send. Reflecting off his eyes was a wall of ice that has incased the Death Bringer's sword. 'Ice created by dust. But other than me the only other person who could do this is-'

"It seems you are all incompetent without me. I suppose it's a good thing I made it in time." The voice held much pride and confidence. It was so cold yet warming at the same time. Knowing whose voice it was Jaune smiles.

It was the Snow Angel herself.

Weiss Schnee was in the clearing standing tall evoking determination. But deep down she's trembling in fear. Without a doubt the creature in front of her was dangerous.

Surprised by the intervention of her defeat, Ruby quickly gets up and joins the others a grateful smile formed by her lips. Before anyone could check on the red hood girl she tackles Weiss in a crushing hug.

"You came back!"

"Didn't you say that last time?" Weiss said as she tries to breath in sweet oxygen.

"Now is not the time for this." Ren interjected reminding the partners that they still had a Grimm to eliminate.

Removing herself from Weiss, Ruby rubs the back of her head in embarrassment. "Sorry." However, the same hand used to scratch her head suddenly comes over her stomach. Pain etched upon her usual cheery face.

"Ruby!"

Yang rushes to her sister with as much speed as her younger sister. As she checks on Ruby, (Who was telling Yang that she was fine.) Jaune trudges towards the two sisters using Dark Repulser as a temporary walking aid.

"Ruby, you should take it easy for now." Jaune began. "I know you want to keep fighting but that attack from before dealt some serious damage to you."

The huntress in training with silver eyes simply pouts but complies nevertheless. Responding with a simple "Okay" Ruby steps back to let her injuries recover.

As the Death Bringer tries to escape from its prison of ice, Jaune steps forward, all eyes were on Jaune as he prepared his next set of orders.

"Here's the plan, Nora and Yang will be the forefront of this attack. They'll dish out massive damage to the Death Bringer." He looks at Blake. "However, in order for their attacks to mean anything I need you to keep cutting it down as it tries to regenerate. Since you're the fastest you're the ideal person for the job." Jaune then looks towards his partner as well as the only other male. "I need you two to act as long range support."

"What about me?" The returning heiress questioned.

"You'll use your glyphs to provide support for the others. In order for this plan to work you're essential."

"Wait so who's dealing the final blow?" It was Pyrrha who asked this not understanding how this incomplete plan will ensure their victory.

Jaune simply smirks which conveys excitement. "The one to deal the finishing blow…" His eyes are set on the Death Bringer as the beast shatters the ice and escapes. "Will be me."

The six students were surprised by the sudden change in Jaune's behavior. He was charismatic and kind but now he was… sadistic. But they set the thought aside to begin the plan formulated by the blond assassin. Everyone save for Jaune, Weiss and Ruby engaged with the Death Bringer.

---

The five students who began their fight with the A tier Grimm each displayed incredible skill. But despite this it all proved fruitless as the Death Bringer was far superior.

As Pyrrha dodged another strike from the creature she couldn't help but mentally praise her partner for fighting a Death Bringer alone for as long as he did. She, Ren, Nora, Yang and Blake were barely able to keep up with the A tier Grimm.

Nora nails the creature with her hammer causing its body to be deformed. But it was regenerating soon after. Despite Blake's desperate attempt to halt its healing it just wasn't enough.

As the beast charges at the bow wearing girl, Ren and Pyrrha halt its approach with their dust infused rounds. But that proved futile as the creature brushed the shots away.

As Blake prepares to defend a glyph appears below her resembling the Schnee logo. The glyph propels Blake back allowing her to avoid the Death Bringer's attack.

Despite the superb teamwork executed by them they would soon meet their match.

---

As Pyrrha and the others were desperately fighting the Death Bringer, Jaune and Weiss were watching carefully for any opening that the beast might have. But to their disappointment they found none.

But despite how hopeless the situation seemed Jaune remained level headed. As he was examining the fight his mind formulates a plan. It was simple but it would get the job done.

He looks at Weiss with a determined smile. "Weiss, I have a plan."

---

The sound of metal clashing and sparks flying were beginning to die down. Pyrrha and the other four were covered with, bruises, sprains and fresh cuts.

The Death Bringer was healing its injuries albeit at a much slower rate. However, despite the amount of time it was taking to regenerate the beast was still in far better condition than the hunters in training.

The stamina of a Death Bringer is what makes them so terrifying. They may have power, speed and intelligence that are far greater than Grimm of B-class and lower. But in comparison to the other A-class variants the Death Bringer's only special quality is its tenacity.

But despite only having one defining quality it was still a creature that one should not take lightly. Which Pyrrha along with her friends were learning at the moment.

The human formed Grimm lunges at the amazoness themed huntress. Pulling its fist back the beast thrusts its arm forth hoping to make contact with Pyrrha.

Using her superb reflexes she narrowly avoids the attack the fist almost grazing her cheek. But the beast was relentless using its formidable speed it tries to connect even more strikes only for its fists to feel air.

Knowing that the beast would soon make its mark Pyrrha quickly spins her Javelin with her wrist to knock the Death Bringer's fist to the side. Using the new found opening Pyrrha thrusts her spear forward.

But her spear halts causing Pyrrha's eyes to widen. "It… caught Milo."

Holding the bladed end of Pyrrha's spear was the Death Bringer with its menacing eyes glaring at the redhead.

With a low and quiet growl the air around the beast shifts. The air between its two horns becomes dense as energy the color of its eyes forms a sphere that continues to grow. It was similar to when it was charging energy to destroy Jaune's barrier. So Pyrrha knew exactly what would happen next. And not wanting to look she closes her eyes.

As the sphere of energy was expanding Blake appears behind the creature severing one of its horns using her black sword.

The energy that was being stabilized by the two horns was now running wild due to the loss of its left horn and implodes but not before Pyrrha and Blake could jump away to avoid the explosion. The blast covers the beast whole and hopefully caused massive damage to the Grimm.

The moment Pyrrha and Blake land after jumping, the smoke that was created from the explosion gets blown away by the screech of the Death Bringer. The beast was revealed to have multiple burn marks but overall it had taken next to no damage.

The Death Bringer charges at the amazoness themed huntress yet again. Knowing that she wasn't quick enough, Pyrrha brings her shield up to meet the blow.

The beast's attack connects with the bronze shield causing Pyrrha to screech back due to the colossal strength behind the attack.

As the beast prepares for another attack Ren and Nora engage. Ren uses powerful and precise palm strikes causing the beast to stagger. While the Grimm was staggered Nora swings her hammer hitting the beast with all her strength creating a shockwave of pink energy and electricity to come to life at the moment of impact.

As the beast is sent flying Blake throws her chain scythe wrapping the chain around it. She pulls down and the beast connects with the ground a large crater being formed as a result of the impact.

The beast was on the ground motionless with the black chain still around its body.

Blake falls on her knees obviously exhausted by the skirmish with Ren mimicking her action soon after. While the two silent hunters in training were catching their breath, Nora, Pyrrha and Yang were still standing tall.

As Blake was breathing in sweet oxygen she notices that her black chain was shifting somewhat. Not even a second passes before her eyes widen in realization.

The bow wearing girl is suddenly pulled in by her chain, which is being held by the Death Bringer and the moment that Blake is within range the humanoid Grimm punches her away and hits Ren as a result.

As Ren and Blake were on the ground, Nora and Pyrrha come running towards the seemingly invincible beast. But they were swiftly defeated with swift punches and throws. The four students were defeated leaving Yang as the last one standing.

The blonde brawler and the black creature clash with their fists. Each time their fists connect a shockwave of gold aura and a shockwave of black energy that was even greater in strength erupts to life.

Yang's fist connects with the Grimm's face a large crack being formed and heard to become the result. She quickly blocks the counter attack and unleashes a few swift jabs that form small explosions to her monstrous opponent.

The blonde powerhouse attempts another major hit but was caught off guard by the sudden block. The Death Bringer grabs her wrists before she can recover from the shock and was sucker punched in the stomach.

Her entire body began to scream in pain. But to make matters worse for Yang the Death Bringer punches her a second time, the force of its attack causing the girl to fly straight towards Pyrrha, knocking her down again in the process.

The five students who were seemingly invincible beforehand were defeated by a single Grimm. The difference between their strengths was as vast as a child compared to an adult.

The inhuman beast glares down at the first years preparing to deal the final blow. Its left arm mutates into a flesh like sword a crimson eye on the blade that was as bright and terrifying as its own pair of eyes.

As the beast prepares to strike them down the young hunters in training were lost in thought. The thought each student has is their impending death knowing that they would never reach their goals or fulfill their dreams.

A dream of finding friends who would look pass her past accomplishments… to find someone who could love her and not her status as a champion.

A dream of redeeming her past sins, to hopefully stop the once peaceful organization she once proudly stood behind.

A dream to finally be "together together" with the man she cares for the most. To finally attain a relationship that surpasses friendship.

A dream of becoming someone who can protect his most cherished friend. To finally be the one who can protect her instead of remaining as the one being protected.

Their dreams will never be realized. All because of the inhuman monster that wishes to devour them. These thoughts plague their minds as the Death Bringer raises its blade up to end its first victim's life, the Lotus boy.

But the beast halts its approach. Not willingly however. Around its body was a white glyph with the symbol of a snowflake.

"My glyphs allow me to affect any person or object that is within their radius." The beast turns its head to face the owner of the voice, Weiss. "They can enhance a person's speed, strength and can affect the way gravity works. Or in your case cause my opponents to become nearly paralyzed." The Death Bringer attempts to break free. Using its sheer strength the glyph Weiss created begins to crack.

Despite this Weiss smiles knowing that it was.

"Checkmate." Jaune finished.

The Death Bringer stops its actions to look at the blonde assassin.

Jaune was no longer using his sword as a support. He was standing tall showing no more fatigue.

Bringing his left hand out, Jaune's white aura flares and begins to form a wide arc. In between the ends of the arc was a string. The ethereal creation soon takes on a physical appearance revealing a white metal western style bow with scrollwork that was colored silver etched on.

Jaune closes his eyes as he brings his right hand up. Creating a sphere of white aura Jaune begins muttering words to himself.

"I am the bone of my sword."

The sphere he created takes on a new form. A drill like sword was created with his aura which takes on a physical form. The sword with the blade of a drill was a normal steel grey and the handle was gold with blue scrollwork etched on. He takes aim, the point of the drill blade aimed at the Grimm's chest.

The Death Bringer frantically begins to break free from the glyph as if knowing that if Jaune were to release his sword then it would be the end.

As Jaune channels more aura to his drill sword it once again changes its form. The drill slims down considerably becoming a silver arrow while the hilt condenses as well.

After his arrow was formed Weiss creates a glyph underneath her, Jaune, Ruby and the others who were close to the Death Bringer.

"Jaune it's ready." Weiss stated with certainty.

"Good, this ends now then." Jaune closes his eyes to only see darkness. However, his vision then has two orbs of energy, a purple orb and a white orb. 'As I thought they're still at Beacon Cliff. In that case.'

The bowman opens his sapphire eyes; instead of the vicious creature that his eyes glared upon moments ago his gaze is set upon a large forest across the distance.

"So you're back… Mr. Arc." An older voice spoke that echoed mirth yet relief.

"That I am… Headmaster."

Jaune along with the rest of his friends were at Beacon Cliff with Ozpin and Glynda next to them. Despite the reunion, Jaune's attention was solely on the forest but more precisely… his prey.

By channeling aura to his eyes (which cause them to glow white) he can see the location of the previous battlefield where they fought, despite being over a hundred kilometers away he could make out every detail. From the individual blades of grass to the ants that walk through it. In the center of the scarred landscape was the Death Bringer still imprisoned by Weiss's glyph.

"Perish"

And with those words the blonde archer released his arrow.

The arrow pierces through the wind with ease with the speed of Ruby's semblance, resembling that of a shooting star that would soon fall from the heavens. Faster and faster it goes causing the trees it passes to break apart and shatter. Until finally it meets its mark; the white arrow pierces the Death Bringer's skull the impact resulting in a large spectacle in the form of an explosion of white nova. The radius of the explosion was easily over a dozen miles.

A fierce current of air clashes against the ten individuals on the cliff. Jaune, Ozpin and Glynda were unaffected by the fierce wind but the strength of the invisible current was almost unbearable for the other seven students.

But as strong as the forceful wind was it died down. All that was left was a gentle breeze that contrasted with the previous gust of wind.

Despite the peaceful atmosphere Jaune was still on guard. Using his enhanced eyes he examines the scarred landscape seeing fire and burnt earth within a giant crater. As his eyes search for any remains of his prey he soon deduces that the creature was no more.

Pleased that he had eliminated the beast his lips form a smile of mirth and genuine joy. He did it. He killed the inhuman monster that plagued this world. But his smile disappears as quickly as it formed knowing full well that he had to compose himself.

His white bow fades into stardust that rises up towards the sky.

"It's finished."

---

"Russel Thrush. Cardin Winchester. Dove Bronzewing. Sky Lark." The screen of the auditorium shows each of their profiles as the boys are lined up for the applauding audience to see as Ozpin continues. "The four of you retrieved the black bishop pieces. From this day forward, you will work together as Team Cardinal, led by... Cardin Winchester!"

The audience gives one more wave of ovation, while four students walk up to the stage to take their places in front of the headmaster as their faces fill the screen.

"Jaune Arc. Lie Ren. Pyrrha Nikos. Nora Valkyrie." Ozpin intoned as they lined up before him. "The four of you retrieved the white rook pieces. From this day forward, you will work together as Team Juniper."

At this a giant JNPR was emblazoned beneath their faces on the screen above. Amid the applause, Nora laughed and hugged a surprise Ren who did not seem to know what to do with his hands. Ozpin continues.

"Led by… Jaune Arc." The headmaster stated gesturing towards the boy he just made leader.

A sensation of shock froze Jaune momentarily. "I'm leader?" He asked dully the reality of his godfather's decision still setting in.

Ozpin nodded briefly. "Congratulations young man." He stated quietly with hidden mirth, his eyes focused on Jaune. "Your family would be proud."

The newly made leader went to say more before Pyrrha began her own celebration of the announcement, punching him lightly, with a blow that staggered him for a moment but thankfully did not knock him over.

'That would have been embarrassing.'

As they were making their way off stage they were stopped by the sound of their headmaster's voce.

"I'm not exactly finished with you four yet."

"I DIDN'T EAT ALL THE BATTER AND THERE'S NOTHING YOU CAN SAY THAT'LL PROVE OTHERWISE!" Nora suddenly declared very defensively.

Ozpin smiled at the energetic girl. "Do not worry Miss. Valkyrie I believe you. Though I do wonder who ate it all on the first day." He shrugs his shoulders his eyes showing amusement. "I doubt I'll ever find the exact answers I'm looking for."

Nora stands up straight and salutes. "Don't worry headmaster sir; Nora Valkyrie is on the case!"

Ozpin smiles again. "I entrust this case to you then." His mirth somewhat disappears in favor of proceeding with the ceremony. "And finally, Blake Belladonna, Ruby Rose, Weiss Schnee and Yang Xiao Long" The four named students walk up stage to be in front of Ozpin and next to the newly made team Juniper. "The four of you retrieved the white knight pieces. From this day on, you will be known as team RWBY. Led by… Ruby Rose."

Weiss looks to her right surprised, where Ruby is obviously in shock as Yang jumped over and engulfed her sister in a hug. "I'm so proud of you!"

As the applause die down Ozpin begins to address the audiences' question. "I know most if not all of you are questioning why I had Team Juniper remain on stage. To answer this question I would first like to bring your attention to the screen."

The audience does so and what they see shocks the whole room. On the screen was the prior engagement between Teams Juniper and RWBY against the mad dog known as a Death Bringer. The fight showcased their incredible teamwork as a team of 8. But what was really surprising was the finishing blow.

A view of Jaune's drill arrow obliterating the Death Bringer was the last scene before the screen cut off.

There were mixed responses. Most if not all of the audience was amazed by the display. Seven out of the eight students who were up on stage were slightly cringing by the reminder of the fight.

The exception being the young man who dealt the death blow, Jaune mentally cursed Ozpin for revealing his abilities. While he didn't use his full power he was still forced to use a great deal of it.

Now Jaune Arc doesn't mind showing most of his abilities, but there were some things that he didn't want shared. The arrow he released being one of them.

'I've revealed my first trump card. Hopefully I can keep the other ones a secret.'

The screen turns black signaling for Ozpin to speak. "What you just witnessed were eight first year students in a battle against an A-Class Grimm known as a Death Bringer. Each student displayed a great deal of skill during this clash. But what is really important is not their individual skill but the teamwork they displayed."

Ozpin looks at the young man renowned as his adopted son. "Mr. Arc I would like to ask you a question."

Though startled by the shift of the conversation Jaune did not hesitate. "Of course headmaster."

"Tell me, you believe that team RWBY would have been able to defeat the Death Bringer without the aid of your team?"

The question is obvious. No, the combined strength of RWBY alone is nowhere near enough to match the strength of a Grimm at the level of A-Class. But what Jaune didn't understand was the purpose of asking this obvious question.

"No, Team RWBY doesn't have the necessary capabilities to eliminate a Death Bringer."

Ozpin nods his head in approval. "Correct, and tell me. Do you believe that your team would have been capable enough without Team RWBY to deal with the Grimm?"

'Now I see.' Jaune deduced. "No, my team would not have been able to defeat it either." It was a lie. Jaune knows he's capable of killing a Death Bringer on his own. Ozpin is also aware of this fact.

Ozpin suppressed a smile from forming. 'That's my boy already figuring me out.' He nods once again in approval and agreement. "Thank you Mr. Arc. So with that in mind I would like to announce something to you all today."

At the sound of the headmaster's soon to be spoken announcement the audience becomes quiet not daring to utter a word or move an inch.

"For years teams have been comprised of 4 students. It has been this way for generations. However, like time we must move on. To change and prosper we must increase in both numbers and abilities. Only then can we press on in the march of time. So it is for that reason that I have changed the rules of my predecessors. I have decided to announce for the first time ever… the establishment of the clan system."

Chatter was heard throughout the room, each student asking the other what this "Clan System" was.

Ozpin continued despite the confusion. "Clans will be comprised of up to five teams. Also, teams from different years may join together as well. This will allow those of you who are experienced to guide your younger peers."

Many of the upperclassmen were really surprised by their headmaster's previous words. So a team that consists of third years can be paired with first years. Even fourth years can be teamed with first years.

However, the clever headmaster wasn't quite done yet. "Furthermore, teams from the different kingdoms can form a clan with those from other schools as well. This will allow you to bond with those of the other kingdoms. Being able to form bonds with those outside our own kingdom is beneficial for our future as a people."

Once again the students were stunned by Ozpin's plan. More chatter was created within the crowd that was near impossible to silence.

However, Ozpin silences his students with the first word spoken; where as any other person would have been unable to stop the conversing. "You may choose which team to ally yourself with. If the feeling of cooperation is mutual then your clan will be formed. I have already discussed this with the three other headmasters of their respected schools. Clans will be a part of the Vytal Festival. Now I said before that who you pair up with is your choice. But the establishment of the first clan will be my decision. Team Juniper and team RWBY will form the first ever clan in history."

Ozpin looks towards created clan. "Mr. Arc. Miss Rose. The two of you may be the leaders of your teams. But who do you wish to be the leader of your clan?"

"Jaune" Pyrrha said without hesitation followed by Ruby with equal energy.

"Jaune"

"Vomit Boy"

"Ren!"

"Nora you can't pick me." Ren said

"Oh, sorry Ren!"

"I guess that means Jaune has our vote." Ren stated.

"I guess Jaune's our leader." Blake added.

The only ones who didn't say anything were Jaune and Weiss. The latter not wanting either "dunce" to be leader.

Ozpin smiled. "Then it's unanimous. The leader will be Jaune Arc of Team Juniper." He looks towards his pride and joy with pride. "You're going to do great things Mr. Arc… I know it."

Jaune looked at his teammates, confused at why they would want him as their leader. Sure he was strong, but was he really good enough to be a leader. Jaune looked at Ozpin. "Are you sure that I should lead them?"

"I did not make this decision Mr. Arc." He gestures over to them with his hand. "Your team did."

Jaune sighed. "Then I'll do my best."

Ozpin turns his head towards the audience. "Thank you all for your patience. You may all take your leave. First year students are to see Professor Peach about your dorms. All second and third years are to return to their dorms for the night. Fourth year students will begin boarding bullheads to begin your missions. You are all dismissed."

As they leave Ozpin turns his head back to Jaune. "Mr. Arc there is something I wish to discuss with you. Please follow me to my office."

Jaune simply nods and follows his idol leaving his friends. They weren't too worried. They figured their leader was going to discuss the events prior to the ceremony.

---

The room filled with operating gears was silent except for the turning of the machinery. Not one word was uttered as the three individuals in the room stared at one another.

Ozpin was sitting in his desk with Glynda to his left while Jaune was leaning on the glass that displayed the breathtaking view of the Beacon grounds, the city itself and of course the beautiful sky. "Why did you two send a Death Bringer for initiation? You endangered our lives!" Jaune raises his voice.

Without turning towards the young blonde, Ozpin speaks. "Jaune listen…"

"I'm not finished! That Death Bringer nearly killed us! If I wasn't there who knows what would have happened out there!" Jaune's outburst echoed throughout the room filled with moving gears.

This time Glynda tries to speak. "Jaune, if you would let us speak…"

"And say what? That I shouldn't be concerned because I've dealt with it!? Well I didn't do it alone! If I didn't have the others there I might not have been able to defeat it!" Jaune's voice easily overpowered the machines in the room as their calming motion could not be heard.

"Don't say such things… XIII." Jaune froze. The voice held a cold and lifeless tone. Jaune looks towards the location of where the voice was. In front of Jaune was the same man who had trained him and the other twelve members of the Jaeger Program. An assassin who had no equal in the art of killing.

"Director." Jaune was paralyzed. This was a visit he did not expect.

Gilbert's brown lifeless eyes began to inspect Jaune; seeing that he had not significant damage he smiles. "Good, you came out unmarred. Just what I expected of my third ranked assassin."

"Director, I did not expect you to be here. Tell me, what brings you here?"

Gilbert grins "For you of course. I wanted see if you could handle my little… test."

Jaune gets hit with realization. "You mean… you sent the Death Bringer, Director?" he looks at Ozpin and Glynda.

Ozpin nods "It was neither Glynda nor I who sent the Death Bringer. That would be Gilbert's doing."

---

As the battle between Jaune and the Death Bringer continues to scar the landscape, Ozpin and Glynda were watching on their scrolls.

Glynda having enough of the whole ordeal prepares to intervene. "I've had enough of this. I'm ending this now."

Ozpin simply nods agreeing with his old partner. As the two powerful hunters walk towards the launch pads a voice stops their actions.

"Might I make another suggestion?"

The moment that voice was heard Glynda and Ozpin turn their heads towards the owner of the voice they despised.

Gilbert Klein was there. His hands in the pockets of his black combat pants, his shirt and trench coat also black with the addition of a pitch black tie to finish the look.

"Gilbert, I should have known that you were behind this." Glynda said barely able to withhold her anger.

"Hello to you too Glynda. And Ozpin, I see you're still as scary as ever."

Despite wanting to tear the man in front of him limb from limb he composes himself. Knowing that one mistake could be fatal. "Gilbert, I take it that the Death Bringer is your doing."

"But of course. I placed was able to defeat the Death Bringer without killing it. It's much more difficult to capture a Grimm of that caliber than it is to simply kill it. But I wanted to test XIII. I had to make sure you didn't impede his training."

Glynda steps forward ready to take action if need be. "What makes you think you can stop us from taking action?!"

Gilbert motions for Glynda to calm down despite the woman before him being perfectly composed. He has a small smile. "Look, just let XIII have this one. Besides…"

The three hunters suddenly feel the presence of Jaune's aura back to full strength. Not only that but they could feel tell that Jaune was about to use his first trump card. Ozpin and Glynda look out at the view prepared to see the largest explosion yet.

"Later…" Hearing that last word Ozpin and Glynda turn back to see that Gilbert was nowhere to be found, and moments later Jaune along with his friends appear next to them.

---

"So this was all a test orchestrated by you?" Jaune asked mentally cursing.

Gilbert smiles at his young apprentice. "You emerged victorious did you not?"

"Well I…" Jaune lowers his head. Arguing with his teacher was pointless he knew that. His hands close into a tight fist. "I understand Director. But if you'll excuse me I best be off."

As Jaune walks pass Gilbert the older assassin utters a few words that cause Jaune to be surprised. But he hides this in order for it to be unnoticed by Ozpin and Glynda.

Jaune exits Ozpin's office leaving the three experienced hunters alone.

With the absence of his student Gilbert walks towards the two partners. He takes his seat and was face to face with the silver haired hunter. "With all that out of the way I have a favor to ask." He began while taking a cigarette out with the lighter in his other hand.

"No smoking!" Glynda stated scolding the grown man.

Gilbert sighs knowing that angering her anymore would get him killed. "Fine, fine I'm putting it away."

As Gilbert was putting his cigarettes away Ozpin asks what this favor is. "So what is this favor?"

With a smirk formed he answers with mirth and yet the utmost seriousness. "I would like to apply as a teacher for Beacon Academy."

---

Dear god that was a long chapter… I know for a fact that I went overboard but at this point I don't even care. But look on the bright side, Jaune was a total badass… right?

The OC submission is still up and going. I don't plan on choosing anyone's OC until either the end of volume one or the beginning of volume two. So you guys have plenty of time to think of an OC and submit him/her. However, many of you who have sent me submissions have used semblance abilities that are already in use by other characters. So allow me to list the ones that are not available.

Sound

Dust manipulation

Shadows

Dimension

Gravity

I would list more but I would be spoiling some good (In my opinion) abilities.

Remember to favorite and/or follow if you like the story. Review if you have suggestions on how to improve my writing (because lord knows I need it) to make the experience better.

Oh and I will explain how Jaune and the others were able to teleport from the battlefield to Beacon Cliff. I would have done it this chapter but it was already so long. So don't worry your pretty little heads I will explain it next chapter.