AN: This is very unprofessional but seeing as how this is fanfiction I think you guys can let this slide. Regarding the team that Ozpin was on with Rohan, Glynda and Qrow. Well I've decided that it would be better to replace Qrow with Elizabeth (Jaune's mother) since it is confirmed that Qrow was on the same team with his sister Raven, Summer and Taiyang. So please forgive me for the change. Also instead of silver eyes Qrow will have red eyes, small change but a change nonetheless.

Every time I look upon that statue I am reminded of the family I had. I am reminded that I once had a dream, a dream to become something that I can never attain.

To be honest

Looking upon this statue brings the crushing weight of reality upon my being. I can never become what I've longed to be. I can only help others by residing in darkness. I protect the world as a murderer.

More than anything

I am content with this fate. As long as I can ensure that others can keep their dreams intact, I will continue to kill and kill. I will create to destroy. That is the path that has been decided for me. I bring justice by being injustice.

In the world

Yet here I am in a school tasked with teaching an entire generation to become keepers of peace. And what's more, I am looking upon the statue of two honorable individuals. One of which is my ancestor.

I want

I am unworthy but I always stop to just look. To see what could have been if I had never lost my family. I know that the past can never be undone and I know that this dream I have will never pass. But even so I will keep this dead dream with false hope in my heart.

To be a-

Jaune could only sigh as yet another boring match had ended.

Combat training was a bore as always. Each member of his year performed poorly against Jaune's seven teammates. The only exciting fight was the rematch between Blake and Yang. But that ended with fiery blonde's victory once again, though admittedly she did struggle more.

Today students were allowed to select their opponent. And for obvious reasons no one chose him. They were only training after all, not participating in a beat down. Unfortunately for the overpowered student named Jaune Arc, he had nothing to do.

This is so boring.

"Cardin Winchester, please stand and choose your opponent." His godmother said neutrally while pressing a few holographic keys in her scroll to set up the match.

Cardin did as he was told and with an arrogant smirk, pointed at the opponent of his choice… which was also his death wish apparently. The large teen's grin never left as he pointed at the number one student, Jaune Arc... Jaune friggin Arc

"Might I suggest you choose someone else, Mr. Winchester? Mr. Arc is far above your skill level." Glynda chastised earning a few laughs from the other students which only served to anger him. She had a point though. She was one of the few people who knew the extents of Jaune's strength. The young man was far beyond any student in Beacon (including most if not all of the fourth year students) and many other licensed hunters. So for Cardin Winchester, an average hunter in training to choose her son as an opponent was a very poor decision.

The large teenager growled at Glynda's comment. It was obvious to the mace wielder that Jaune got lucky with his match against the Mistral Champion. Either that or the redhead merely threw the match. So Cardin planned to prove it now. "If he's really as good as you think he is then why does this loser skip combat class most of the time?"

What Cardin said was the truth actually. Well to an extent. While true that Jaune has far more absences than attendances, it isn't due to any inability. No, it is simply due to the fact that he saw no point in going to class. He figured he could show up for tests and leave it at that.

"If you ask me I think he's afraid to fight." Jaune couldn't help but raise a brow at that comment. He couldn't really take the large brute seriously. Though, he did realize an important fact from the man's words.

"Cardin, you're an idiot."

Cardin would prove it. Prove to all his peers that Jaune Arc was just a pushover who only got lucky. He was smart enough to deduce that much. Cardin was by no means an unintelligent man. Sure he may not excel in his studies but that was by choice. He had better things to do than learn about stuff that happened in the past. What happened a long time ago is meaningless now.

Now back to the matter at hand. Cardin didn't know where Jaune stood in terms of strength, but he was sure if he gave this match an uncharacteristic one hundred and twenty percent, he could succeed. That pretty boy is going down. After strapping the last piece of his plate armor on, Cardin grabs hold of his mace and makes way for the training room.

It was a short distance, just walking pass a few row of lockers before reaching the hallway that extended far out. At the end was the entrance to the arena however Cardin was too far to make out the room's details and could only see the faint light.

He didn't waste any time, and immediately walks towards his execution. No there is no way I am going to lose to him!

With a smile that showed all the confidence he could possibly muster up, he marches on to meet his opponent. The small strategic side of his brain began formulating strategies to use against that pretty boy's arsenal. If Jaune decides to wield that damn sword he likes so much, then he'll discharge explosive blasts with his mace to meet any of those pesky slashes of aura.

The young team leader couldn't help but let his smile grow in size. He could win. He would win. Who's the man?! He quickly finds his thumb pointed towards his armored chest. I'm the man!

When he enters the room the first thing he looks for is an armed Arc. It only took him a second to find… half of what he was looking for.

Why the hell is he unarmed?!

Standing next to his terrifying professor was Jaune in his school uniform. The blonde didn't even bother removing his jacket or vest to prevent unrestrictive movement as if saying that Cardin wouldn't even be able to make him break a sweat. For god's sakes, Jaune's red tie wasn't even loosened to make the fight more comfortable!

"What's the big idea!? Hurry up and get your weapons so we can start this thing!"

"There's no need I'm not engaging in any prolonged fight. Getting my weapons would be a waste of time." The blonde's response was accompanied by a smile. Despite the arrogant words, anyone with half a mind could tell that it wasn't all talk. Jaune had the skills to back up his claim.

Unfortunately for Cardin, his boundless anger kept him from seeing this obvious fact.

"I believe it's time we commence the match." The two team leaders both nod, giving Goodwitch the go ahead. Clearing her throat, Glynda swung her hand out and announced that the match may now. "Begin!"

His heart pumped one beat.

Only one beat.

In that small instant from when Jaune Arc was standing in a combat stance to a blur of movement, Cardin Winchester was hit. The large teen was sent flying upward by an uppercut punch to the jaw. It looked like any normal attack.

For Cardin, it felt like someone had hit him with a goddamn building the size of a fist.

The sheer force of that attack was enough to reduce the healthy green aura bar to a critical red that could barely be seen. And like the loss of Cardin's green bar, so did his consciousness. But not before he could utter his final thought.

Fuck my life…

"Jaune Arc is the winner of the match." Glynda announced as she walked past the unconscious body of Cardin Winchester and towards the said winner.

Jaune looked at his opponent's unconscious form with a bored expression. However, contrast to his seemingly uncaring demeanor all the spectators of the match were in awe at his performance. It happened so fast but they all saw the end result.

Sure, Jaune was strong and all. He beat Pyrrha Nikos a four time champion on the first day so it wasn't surprising to see the tall blonde as the winner. However, he won in a single punch. A. Single. Punch!

How can anyone possibly be that strong?! Weiss thought incredulously. As a Schnee, she strived to be the epitome of perfection. Yes, perfection. She wanted to perfect every skill in order to become the very best. But, if getting perfection meant surpassing Jaune then she was much farther away from her goal then she initially thought.

While Weiss was in complete awe, the beautiful blonde, known as Yang Xiao Long was prepared to shout a congratulation-

"WE LOVE YOU JAUNE!"

Well, until she was beaten by Jaune's abundance of fan girls.

Throughout his short time here in Beacon, Jaune has become rather popular as of late. Already in the second week of being here he's become the most desired male on campus. The only other man that rivaled such popularity would be the blonde's only other male teammate, Lie Ren.

Girls love the silent types too.

Everyone in team RWBY and JNPR look at the screaming girls with annoyed expressions. Some of the girls weren't even first years! That wouldn't be problem if it weren't for the fact that this class is for first years only! Even Pyrrha, who made a point in acting kind to others, could not hide her irritation for those irritating girls. But she composed herself knowing that her leader would never reciprocate their feelings or even pay them any attention.

Jaune waved at his admirers with an innocent smile as he did not understand the consequences of such an action.

And as a result

He was met with more screams of affection… and a bra to the face.

"Seriously why did that girl throw her bra at me?" The blonde asked with a hint of pink on his cheeks while setting his fork down. He may have extensive knowledge about the skill set required of a huntsman, but there was one thing he could never understand. Girls and their actions…

Dear Monty he was hopeless.

To say that all of Team RWBY and JNPR were baffled by their leader's obliviousness would be an understatement. Was the seemingly perfect student that clueless in regards to the affections of the opposite sex? No it couldn't be. That was what Yang thought at least. It was probably a prank or just his way of being hard to get. Though she had to admit, Jaune was a very convincing generic male protagonist of a harem anime.

'Huh, not gonna lie that was a weird thought.' Yang merely shrugged it off and decided to answer the fellow blonde. "She probably wanted you to know her scent." Everyone gave her glance and she merely shrugged for the second time. "What? It's possible."

"I won't lie." Ren began. "But that is just crazy talk... and I've been friends with her for years." He said while pointing at Nora for emphasis who was just preparing to eat a stack of pancakes. The girl didn't even eat candy and yet she still proved to have more energy than Ruby hyped up on sugar. One didn't even want to think about the consequences of giving Nora any sugar.

Jaune didn't even think he could prevent a rampage from a sugar hyped Nora.

The busty blonde smirked, finding a perfect opportunity to reveal her first one. Yang was going to impress everyone she knew it. The next sentence will be remembered for generations to come. This, she knew without any doubt in her heart.

"Well I'm glad that you didn't Lie Ren..."Her first pun! It was so good she didn't know how she could top it off, but she would worry about that later. She looked at her friends to see their- non amused faces. She didn't even hear a hint of held back laughter.

Yang's smile grew even more. They were so impressed by my pun that it left them speechless! Score one for Yang!

"Never again…" Jaune said with zero emotion as he drinks his coffee. Everyone else silently agreed with their leader.

Belay that added point. The blonde's joyous smile disappeared and was replaced with a frown deducing that her friends had no sense of humor. She would show them the light eventually. If there was one thing she was good at besides fighting, it was creating hilarious puns.

There was cruel laughter. Not the kind of laughter that Yang was hoping to hear for her pun. No this was laughter that would only be used for one purpose… for mockery. They all look over as the laughing grows louder, mixed in with cries of pain from a girl with brown hair, and rabbit ears of the same milk chocolate shade. Those very same ears are tugged on by Cardin Winchester, who seems to have recovered from his prior ma-… skirmi-… failure? Yeah failure.

"Ow! That hurts!" The rabbit Faunus exclaimed. Despite how much pain she was feeling she stops struggling and grimaces. "Please, stop..." Her words not only revealed the pain she felt, but also her irritation for the brute's actions.

The bully continues laughing as he turns to his cronies. "I told you it was real!"

"What a freak!" Russel said as he continues to guffawing with his teammates while the leader of Cardinal finally relents, and the girl stands up and hurries off, her head bowed and hiding her face from the watching table of teams JNPR and RWBY.

As Pyrrha looks back at her friends, her disgust for team Cardinal's act made clear. "Atrocious. I can't stand people like him."

"He's not the only one..." It was Blake who spoke up. She could barely keep the anger she had for that brute in check. A fellow Faunus was being humiliated right in front of her and she didn't do a thing! It's not that she didn't want to help. If she had it her way, Blake would have intervened in a heartbeat and put Cardin and his cronies in their place! But she couldn't no matter how angry or how wrong it made her feel to just watch. Blake knew that if she did intervene, her Faunus heritage could very likely be found out.

That's what she kept telling herself. If her heritage was discovered then there was a chance that her history would be investigated by the staff of Beacon. Everyone would know that she was once a member of the White Fang. If that were to happen then all her efforts of becoming a huntress would be for naught! If she was to ensure equal rights for the Faunus she had to remain idle!

It was for the good of the Faunus as a whole. But it hurt so much, to just be a spectator and remain idle. She couldn't help but have thoughts of someone doing that to her ears... to pull on them so violently without mercy.

The mere thought of something so insulting and painful almost made her want hold her covered ears.

"It's pathetic." Blake looked at the person who chimed in on the conversation. Surprisingly it was her clan leader, Jaune his earlier embarrassment from his fan girls all but vanished due to team Cardinal's racist display.

Jaune took another sip of his coffee after he spoke, and Blake could see the annoyance and disappointment on her leader's face. Seeing this allowed warmth to swell inside her. She really did choose a wonderful group of people to be around. "I agree" She says while making sure to withhold most of her delight. "Their actions toward her are appalling. I think it's a shame that such acts of discrimination aren't punished in the school."

Jaune nods. "I do agree that Cardin and his team are rather pathetic for picking on a single girl." Blake was beginning to like her leader even more and opens her mouth to speak, but stops when his next words are uttered. "But that's not what I was referring to."

Everyone was silent after he spoke, as they were not entirely sure what he was implying.

The cat Faunus on the other hand seemed to put two and two together as she slammed her fist on the table and rose from her seat simultaneously. All her respect for the blonde shattered at that moment. "So you're saying she's pathetic for being discriminated against?!" Anger boiled in the pit of her very being and didn't even care about the spectators watching. She said nothing else as she continued to glare at her leader (who continued to drink his coffee) as her opinion of him was drastically changing. The uncaring man finished his drink and finally met her threatening gaze. While her eyes conveyed the anger she felt for him. Jaune's gaze held no emotion as if this standoff was a waste of his time.

"And what could Jaune Arc, probably the nicest guy in the entire school hate?" Her question to Jaune on their first day of school.

Blake remembered that day so vividly. The way she smiled at him. The amount of enjoyment she had talking with him. When she asked him that question she wasn't given an answer. But now, without a shred of doubt she knew the answer to her question. And in these moments she realized that Jaune Arc was no better than the humans who shunned her kind away.

He was no better than the humans who took her family away.

"You're just like everyone else! You don't care about the hardships that the Faunus are forced to go through every day!" Blake shouted as her piercing glare only sharpened. In response Jaune's eyes narrowed briefly, while his brows drew down in a stern expression as if prepared to reprimand her. Like hell he is! "Combat training tomorrow! You and me!"

Well that was certainly eventful. XIII was currently in the library reading loveless as this was a ritual for him. On most days, after classes were over he would go to the library to read instead of returning to the dorm with his team. The members of his clan would usually voice their concern about his lack of communication with them (Pyrrha especially), he was their leader after all, and as such he should be the most vocal with them.

But the young assassin didn't really care about such things. Despite his godfather making it next to impossible, he would find away to convince Ozpin to graduate him.

Then I can start hunting with VIII.

Ah yes, VIII, his true partner. Pyrrha could never replace the man he's come to respect. Out of the thirteen members of the Jaeger Program, his partner was one of two who surpassed him in terms of power and skill. VIII's killing capabilities were simply amazing. Killing was an art form that he had perfected.

Now XIII was quite proud of his strength and skill as a killer. But he was prouder to be VIII's partner. Alone they were undoubtedly strong. But together…

They were capable of a hot dish of genocide, served for Grimm. No refunds accepted.

"Thinking of killing, XIII?" At the sound of his number, he looks up from his book to see the smiling face of his mentor. That smile of his could bring chills down anyone's spine. But to a fellow killer it was like a smile that you'd see a neighbor give you.

A neighbor that would probably like to kill you but whatever, it works.

XIII closes the book after memorizing his place. "What can I do for you, Professor." He said while putting emphasis at that last part. They were in school so calling him director would be unwise. So is calling me by my number!

Gilbert snickers as he takes his seat. While true that it would more appropriate to call his thirteenth member by his name when in the compounds of school, the older assassin couldn't help it. Besides, "There's no one around dear pupil." He gestured with his hands while still smiling. His soulless brown eyes look towards the red book on the table. "Loveless huh. You must have had that for years, right?"

XIII blocks his mentor's voice in moments. Honestly why can't the director of a program designed to train deadly assassins be serious and just get straight to the point? Gilbert wanted to tell him something but the man just has to take his sweet time before just telling-

"So I need you to meet him at his club."

Wait what? How did Gilbert get from talking about a book to a club? Man, he really does like the sound of his own voice. "Professor, can you just tell me what you need?" The older man just stares at his young pupil as he was holding back his laughter. "What?"

"You tuned me out didn't you?"

"Yeah, what about it?"

…

…

…

"Not a word about this to the others."

"Would you like me repeat myself?"

"Yes please."

Wearing his usual black V-necked shirt that was under his trench coat, XIII looked around as he made his way through the streets of Vale. Crowds of people were making their way back and forth as they enjoyed the night away. However, he was on business which meant fun was not on his schedule. "So I just turn right and the club should be here." Looking towards his destination, he sees a large building with a closed sign at the front. Standing by the sign was a single person too far to really see in detail. But he could discern that their outfit consisted of black… a lot of black.

I really am unoriginal. The blonde thought with a frown as he looked down at his clothes. Ah well, a change in wardrobe could be worried about for later. For now, he had to remain focus for the mission.

His body moves in a blur using speed that normal people couldn't possibly follow. Hiding in an alleyway he checks his surroundings to see if anyone was nearby. Only a few civilians were in a close proximity but he was out of sight. Knowing that it was safe, he takes a simple white pierrot-inspired face mask out of his coat pocket. He looked at the mask seeing its red smirk.

This was by no means an ordinary mask. Courtesy of the Schnee Dust Company, this interesting piece of technology called 'Die Jaegers Anfrage' (Anfrage for short) is invaluable for infiltration mission. The mask grants the wearer access to multiple vision modes that can be switched on the fly. Though great for mission involving infiltration, the mask's purpose is not limited to just stealth operations. The Anfrage also grants the user vision modes that are ideal for combat, and though it may not look it, the mask allows for great face protection against incoming attacks.

He couldn't count the number of times this mask saved his precious face. XIII had to admit, this impressive piece of technology has served him and the other Jaegers well, but he couldn't say he really liked the valuable tech on a personal level. As the lifeless mask continued to stare back at him, his finger traced over the red double arc that was over the right eye.

It was the symbol of his family though with one modification. Instead of the bright yellow that almost looked gold, his family symbol was the color of blood. He didn't make this adjustment, the courtesy belonged to Gilbert. He assumed the man did this, in order to remind him of his fall to grace and the people he had to kill. Hope and happiness is the representation of the color yellow. So bearing that fact in mind, how could someone like him have the audacity to use such a color? After all, he was no better than a murderer.

Such crushing thoughts almost made him fail to realize that the hold on his mask tightened. Thankfully he stopped as he let out a sigh. Now is not the time to be thinking such thoughts. With a nod he placed the mask over his face and the whole world went black.

"Link start" Lines that were not there before light up displaying colors of the rainbow, which appear along the mask, only to vanish as quickly as it appeared.

XIII's darkened sight brightened, and his vision returned to him shortly seeing the club again. However, on the top right corner the time 11:27 pm was displayed. His hidden blue eyes trail towards the closed building. "So the nightclub is apparently closed." XIII looks up at the starry sky with a confused expression. "Why would a nightclub be closed at night?"

Any idiot knows that closing a nightclub at night is a poor business decision. Profits would be lost as a result. So there must be a reason for such a choice to be made. "Structural analysis" He whispered, and in only a second a combination of blue and green grids appeared on the building in his point of view.

'Structural analysis' one of the modes of vision offered by his mask. This function allows the wearer to discern a structure's layout, assisting the user in breaking in more easily.

Scans of the building were completed in seconds showing him the schematics of the building, as well as the answer to his question. Through a gridded digital representation, XIII could see minor damage to the flooring and walls. From what he can tell there used to be far more damage but they seemed to have been repaired. What could have done such a thing though?

It didn't really matter to be honest. With a shrug he approached the club knowing that there was no reason to stall the mission. As he got closer he could see that the person standing guard was a generic thug in a black suit who was wearing red shades to try and look cool. His face was ordinary, his very existence was ordinary.

"Analyze target." He whispered to his mask once again. The black suit became transparent in his eyes, and he could see a single pistol found common with criminals. So the guy's choice in weapons was also uninspiring. Before he could be in earshot, the blonde ordered one last command. "Modify voice."

The ordinary thug with no real purpose in life noticed XIII's presence. His whole body was frozen. Most likely from fear, XIII deduced. Most people found the Anfrage quite terrifying when they see it for the first time. Seriously, who just walks around with a creepy white mask for no reason?

"Blonde hair!" He exclaims in horror while taking a communicator out. "Code blonde! We got a code BLONDE!"

Okay, so it's not the mask. And though his face is hidden, XIII's confusion could not be hidden as he asked the question. "What's wrong with blonde hair?" Courtesy of his voice changer, his voice was moderately deeper, and caused the question to echo. The modification didn't change the way his voice sounded too much, but there was enough of a dissimilarity to differentiate this modified voice from his normal one.

As for what was wrong with having blonde hair. "You're that psychotic blonde bitch the boss told me about!" Well, apparently there are a lot of things wrong with having blonde hair. Yet there is absolutely nothing wrong with the white smirking mask he was wearing in public, nor was there a need for concern about his altered deeper, echoing voice that most people would piss their pants from. There can't be anyone as dumb as him.

The door violently swings open and more than a dozen men wearing the same suit and shades run out. Unlike the first guy they were all wearing black hats to match their outfit. XIII would have been intimidated if… well if they were intimidating. Despite all of them pointing their identical pistols at him they all had scared looks as if they were looking at Death in the face.

I guess they are in a way. XIII thought blankly.

Simultaneously, the group of terrified thugs all look from his mask covered face to his messy blonde hair. And he could tell, despite their red glasses, that their eyes widened and their fear multiplied by hundreds.

I stand corrected. The ordinary henchman has equals among him.

The first generic thug whose very existence is just ordinary and boring felt someone poke his arm. He looks at his colleague. "Doug, you forgot your hat." The generic goon named Doug nods as he puts on the black hat.

Okay, so XIII may not be big on fashion. However, he could safely say that the getup these guys have on was just ridiculous. Seriously, unlike these schmucks, he is not a common criminal. The young assassin wouldn't be caught dead wearing that cheap suit. Those red shades were okay he supposed but the hat would just make him look like a complete hipster. (Is that even a thing in Remnant?)

"What are you idiots doing!?" A man shouts from inside the club. The owner of the voice exits to reveal a tall imposing man with shaved black hair. He was wearing a black vest over a white dress shirt. Around his neck was a red tie similar to the ones that the thugs were wearing.

That must be Hei Xiong. XIII had to admit the towering man could definitely intimidate people. Though he doubted he would have the same effect on a huntsman or huntress. If he had to be honest, even a hunter in training would probably not feel fear in the man's presence.

Hei Xiong looked at XIII with an annoyed expression and then towards his men. "Who's the guy in the mask?"

The men looked at each other, confused by their employer's lack of fear. Doug (the ordinary man if you forgot) decided to voice their bewilderment with his boring voice. "Sir, isn't that the blonde you were talking about?"

The group's employer held the bridge of his nose. "Blondie is a chick you idiots. Get it right!"

"But sir, how do you know it isn't her?"

"Because you idiots! HE DOESN'T HAVE BREASTS THE SIZE OF YOUR HEADS!" The larger man looks towards the masked hunter in training apologetically. "Sorry about that, they're all new here." XIII only nods still confused why no one would fear his mask. It never failed him before so why now? "Alright you idiots, get back to work!" The large man shouted.

As expected the hired criminals do as they are told and move back inside the club, leaving Doug to stand there like the generic idiot he is with his head casted down in shame. Poor guy, it's not his fault that he was born an ordinary man with no real purpose in life.

The bearded man looks at XIII and in a low voice. "Judging by the mask, you must be XIII." In a blur, Hei Xiong's eyes were centered on the end of a black pistol's barrel. The man's body tensed, but he calmed down instantly which XIII praised for mentally. Most people would be in a state of fear when a gun was aimed for their forehead.

The fact that this man knows his number was odd. "How do you that name?" XIII's modified voice added volume to the threatening tone of his question. If the man was terrified he didn't show it keeping a calm expression the entire time. I have to admit I am rather impressed.

And in an instant "I know your name because of that annoying mentor of yours." Ah, so Gilbert told him his number. The masked blonde almost let a growl escape him, annoyed that his mentor was so careless to give away his number. Protocol dictates that any Jaeger on a mission must give an alias. So why give away his number so carelessly? It is odd though. My teacher is many things but careless is not one of them. He looks at Hei Long with a cold stare that could not be discerned courtesy of his Anfrage. There was only one reason that he could think of for Gilbert to give out his number. Is he one of Gilbert's partners perhaps an informant? Regardless, the man knew his number but not his name. That was satisfactory.

As he lowered Ebony "Hei Xiong, correct?" His voice echoed coolly, while masking any emotion.

"Yeah that's me. But you can just call me Junior." The larger man motions for the assassin to follow. He does so, and the two enter the club. The main hall to the club was rather spacious. There were chairs and couches to allow people to relax and take a break from the music and atmosphere of the club if need be.

They were approaching the large double doors, which most likely lead to the dance room. Junior opens one of the doors, and the two enter the empty club. True to the analysis from earlier, there was minor damage to the room. Every henchman from earlier as well as a few other men was working on repairs.

Whoever could have caused this damage anyways? Probably someone who should control their temper… His hidden eyes widen. No… It couldn't be yet it honestly made sense. The fear of blonde hair, a girl with jugs the size of cannon balls, and of course the needless destruction of the club. This destruction, the cause of it… the answer was clear as day.

Damn it Yang!

"Just walk up those stairs and your associate should be there waiting. " Putting that insane woman in the back of his mind, XIII nods at the poor unfortunate man who had to endure Yang's wrath. No, away with her, don't think about the annoying blonde.

Dismissing himself from his escort, XIII walks up the stairs. Then all eyes were on him as he ascended. The men in the club didn't know what his purpose was but they knew one thing. He was someone to not interfere with. Once the young man entered the room, Junior exhaled a breath he didn't know he was even holding. The club owner had to be honest. His life was just so complicated. From lending his men to Torchwick only to never hear from them again. To getting both him and his club trashed. To associating with, Gilbert despite his better judgment. Then of course was that blonde he sent… Why are all blondes so scary?

The room he entered was of average size, only lit with red lights and had a small bar at the back but with no one occupied. There was a view of the lower floor of the club using a one way mirror. XIII could see the men still working on repairs with Junior directing them. Two girls he didn't see before were next to the larger man. They were twins, one wearing white and the other wearing crimson and black.

XIII paid no more attention to the ones below him, his eyes trace towards the center of the room. A single table with two couches facing each other. Sitting on one of the mentioned couches was a single individual wearing a black coat with a silver zipper with short brown hair. Their identity concealed by a white mask similar to his own. However, the slit was a bright orange and in contrast to XIII's smirking mask, this second one was drawn downward in to a frown. On the left side of the mask, a large orange blazing sun that was pierced by a golden spear was painted across the right eye, interrupting the image due to the eye hole.

Two killers with covered eyes stare off. Time only passes for the briefest of moments before XIII starts to laugh, his echoing voice changing back to his original the moment he removes the mask. "How long are you going to be staring at me, VI?" XIII asks with a smirk.

With their own hallow chuckle, VI removes the mask revealing the face of a young man with a tanned complexion. His milk chocolate hair was barely above the warm gaze of his orange eyes."Just sit down." The identified male said with a snicker. "It's been awhile." XIII took a seat as the brunette said this. The two teens were far more relaxed than they have been in quite a while. "How's Beacon treating you?"

With an irritated sigh XIII answered his fellow Jaeger. "It's a real pain. My team…" He paused showing his aggravation and disdain for the mentioned group. "My clan is a nuisance to be honest."

"Ah yeah, the director did say something about you leading an 8 member team. So it's called a clan." VI nods, understanding the blonde's situation. It wasn't a surprise to him that XIII hated his membership of the school. People their age were often naïve. But that was topic for another time.

"So what's so important that I had to meet you?" XIII questioned. It was nice to chitchat with a comrade but this was business. The mission came first before anything.

VI takes a small red and black flash drive out. The blonde recognized the little device instantly. Every member of the program was given such a flash drive when they were assigned to recover or borrow- (yeah, borrow that's a good one) data. The memory unit could house terabytes worth of data thanks to the processing dust shard inside that assists the NAND flash memory chip. "This drive contains data concerning essential information for the program. I've already given copies to the other members. I need you to look over this and make a copy for the Director."

XIII simply nods before taking the small device. To think that such a small piece of technology could house such important data. For most people, they would have some inner monologue stating that despite how small the memory unit is, the fact that this seemingly unimportant device held such crucial data felt like they were holding the weight of the world. But that so called weight of the world was light to the thirteenth Jaeger as this was just a normal occurrence for him.

"So what's on the drive?" The question was really just pointless, as XIII inserted the memory unit in his scroll. He does not waste time when all the data is transferred and begins looking through the information.

"XIII, as I've said before the data on that drive is crucial to the program." VI said all the enjoyment shown from earlier now completely gone. "The Atlas military is involved."

The Atlas military! As if on cue, with the Atlas symbol right next to it, an image of a large mechanized unit appeared on screen. The machine had an intricate design, armed with at least two energy guns on its side, rocket launchers mounted onto its back, and double-barreled guns on the sides of the aforementioned energy guns. The large machine was a battle suit apparently. Under the image was most likely its name, the Atlesian Paladin-290.

So if the largest military in the four kingdoms is involved in this. It could only mean one thing. "We're going to be at war with Atlas." XIII said without displaying any emotion. Though, in truth the thought of having to fight an entire kingdom was rather nerve racking.

"No. We're already at war." With those words VI stood from his couch and walked towards the one way mirror, showing his expression filled with exhaustion. And for the first time XIII noticed his colleague's fatigue.

"Was the mission to get this data that taxing?"

VI doesn't even turn, as he uses the mirror to look at the fellow assassin. "At first everything was going according to plan. However…" His eyes close as he remembers the white knight that had almost defeated him. "A new Atlesian knight unit intervened."

"A new knight?"

"Yeah" VI said with a nod. He finally turns towards the blonde. "I read through files on that drive. The unit is designated as Lancelot."

Wanting to see it for himself, XIII searched through the files to find it. It did not take him long to find the document labeled, Lancelot. Clicking on the folder, he was greeted with the beautiful sleek knight. Next to it was something called a DVS (Dust Vibration Sword). Apparently it's a sword that uses extremely high oscillation rates and temperatures in order to increase the cutting effectiveness of the weapon. And next to the sword, is a rifle called VADIS (Variable Ammunition Dust Impact Spitfire) a weapon based on railgun technology. It apparently fires beam-like rounds that use special dust.

"Lancelot huh." XIII didn't want to admit it, but facing the Atlas military will cause many casualties on both sides. It is an inescapable truth. Dying was something that he didn't want to experience anytime soon- or again for that matter. His mind conjured an image of the Death Bringer that almost brought him death.

As did thoughts of those seven students he supposedly called friends. It was odd really. In the beginning, he was looking forward to his stay at Beacon and even wanted to attend for all four years. Making friends didn't sound too bad either. He actually enjoyed the thought. Even more surprising, he was so willing to sacrifice his very life for those seven students. Yet now he wants nothing to do with them. He did not understand the reason himself. But if he had to guess…

I suppose I still had hope for my dead dream.

"Hey man, are you spacing out again?" VI asks causing his thought plagued comrade to almost jump. As much as he enjoyed a little time with the blonde killer, he had more business to attend to. The last thing he needs is a mouth full from Gilbert. "I've got some errands to run so I'll see ya later. Stay safe okay."

He only offered a nod. So with that, VI left the room after donning his hood and mask, all the while XIII was still in his own world and almost didn't hear the sound of the door closing.

Things have gotten a lot more interesting. He was certain that a confrontation with Atlas is suicidal. After all the Atlesian military has the largest and most powerful force of the four kingdoms and their technological prowess is second to none. However, they do have one advantage over the imposing kingdom.

The Schnee Dust Company or more specifically, Kalte Schnee. His resources and connections are invaluable to the Jaegers. Thanks to Kalte, their supply of dust is boundless and what's more is that their headquarters is in Atlas, meaning that Archibald Schnee's eyes and ears are everywhere inside the kingdom. So even with the many advantages that the Atlesian military has, the one advantage that they have is significant enough to turn the tide in their favor.

Out of the corner of his eye he could see the fellow Jaeger exiting the club. There was more for him to do apparently. Poor VI, he always did hate solo assignments. With a sigh XIII goes through the new data in his scroll. He had homework after all.

"Not the normal kind sadly." He said as he read some files on the locations of military outposts. Some were even located out in the badlands where heavy populations of Grimm are located. Usually outposts such as those are lost in a matter of weeks due to the overwhelming forces of Grimm so it was usually unadvised to build one out so far. So why would Atlas create stations there? The date when these specific outposts were built and fortified was listed next the map. Interesting, so these outposts have been active for almost a year now, which means they must be heavily fortified. However, to build a single outpost to survive this long would cost a fortune. And Atlas has built six equally fortified bases.

Outposts out in the badlands are usually only built in an attempt to gain ground against the Grimm. Of course, it usually ends in failure. At first glance it seems that Atlas is really working vigorously on pushing the dark forces back. But there's a huge flaw in that theory. Why would they not share this information? Whenever a development regarding the Grimm is made, informing the populace is one of the first courses of action. That's how it has always been without exception.

So it was for that reason why XIII had made a hypothesis. These outposts were not created for the purpose of thwarting Grimm. Well at least that is not their primary objective. The only other reason why Atlas would station outposts this far out is if they wanted to hide something. As for what they're hiding, he didn't have a clue to be honest. Although, there was one thing that he was certain. Whatever Atlas is trying to hide it must be of great importance.

"This is so boring." He really should be used to doing stuff like this now. But for the love of Monty, this was just so booorrrriiing! Why couldn't he just sleep and pretend that this was all a dream? The last thing he thought he would be doing was reading through at least an hour worth of data. He wasn't ashamed to admit it but he was probably one of the laziest members when it came to analyzing taken data. He was good at it, though admittedly not the best. When forced to try and find one important needle of information in a haystack of unimportant data his mind would usually wander off.

Just like now for example.

"Focus, I have to focus." Right now this was too important to let himself get distracted.

Exiting the document that has all the information on the outposts, he navigates through other folders. It was a boring affair, but he was learning new information by the minute. Like the new Atlesian Knight-200, the successor to the previous Atlesian Knight-130. XIII had to admit it. Those new models look a lot friendlier than those older ones.

Reading through more files, XIII couldn't help but find one that caught his eye. It was so out of place that it stuck out like Nora attending a fancy party hosted by Mr. Schnee. Knowing that it was important to look through all documents and to satisfy his curiosity, XIII presses on the document and was surprised of what was there… or rather what wasn't there.

The file was corrupted, not allowing the image that was once there to reveal itself, instead allowing the word ERROR to take its place. Details such as whether or not it was a machine or weapon were completely erased. This meant that before VI could obtain this information someone must have erased the files.

However, there is one thing that was left of this broken file.

Displayed on the top of the error screen, read a name that XIII would not forget. He really couldn't help but read the name out loud.

"Penny…" He was actually intrigued now. This has gotten much more interesting.

Knowing that he wouldn't be able to discern any more information, he removes the memory unit from his tablet. He pressed a key to display the time. He read the time to be 12:48 am. Which means curfew passed a long time ago… great. A sigh escaped him as he hid his mask away, closing his eyes afterwards. Looks like he had to get to Beacon the fast way, he couldn't risk getting caught by Ozpin or Glynda.

Especially Glynda.

Though his eyes were closed he could see a statue. It was that statue. He could perfectly see the triumphant pose that the man has. Then there was that hooded woman that stood next the man with an axe.

It's not enough of a connection. I have to picture more. So he did. He remembers the building behind the sculpted structure as well as the concrete that he would stand on, the feeling of the gentle wind that would blow against his body as he stared on. I need to remember even more. He remembers the position he would always stand on so he could see the face of that man. It was painful to look at every time but it helped remind him. Remind him that he is Jaune Arc, the last member of the Arc lineage.

Connection established

The scene in his mind is so perfect that he almost failed to realize that he opened his eyes. There it was that statue he would always look upon.

The semblance of creation and imagination is a powerful one. However, this power is not perfect. The perfect ability is an impossible feat, one that will and should never exist. And as was stated before, his semblance is no exception.

In order to teleport using rifts in space he's created, a near perfect image or memory of the location must be imagined. Not only that, but he has to establish a deep connection or bond with his chosen spot. Doing short distance teleports in a fight is simple, as he just needs to imagine being at his opponent's side. But to travel far away locations requires the perfect image that his mind needs and a deep bond.

With the Death Bringer, he had to improvise. While he didn't necessarily have a perfect memory of the horizon of Beacon Cliff, he felt the aura that belonged to Ozpin and Glynda. Using his deep connection with them, he was able to travel towards them. Though, it did help that they weren't too far away. If they were actually inside the academy he wasn't sure if a long distance teleport would have worked.

Man I'm tired. I guess I should be heading to bed. With a yawn, XIII gets ready for his walk towards his dorm. He stops however, to look at that statue again.

If he were here as a different person maybe he would look at the statue with a smile on his face. But as he was now he had no right to. Those two figures were heroes. Someone like him was unworthy to even look upon them. Yet he looks anyways and thus, every time his eyes stare at that statue reality crashes down on him. The reality that his dream is only that, a dream. It shouldn't matter to him anymore, but it was always his dream to become a hero. So to look at this statue was like seeing another possible future.

To look at another possible future is scary when you think about it. If things were different, if I didn't lose my family, would I have been different? Would I have been able to make normal friends? Would I be normal?

He felt cold as his mind pondered the self asked question. It was an odd feeling really. He hadn't felt like this since…

His eyes darken as he remembers the scene. He could feel that odd yet familiar hollowness again from all those years ago. How could he not? It was the day he truly became the enigma known as XIII. It was the day he killed his first target.

The first time he killed he had become a wreck. Just remembering that person's face never fails to make him shiver despite how normal it is for him to kill. It was sickening to think about. Even now his whole body feels so cold.

"You're shaking." With wide eyes XIII turned to see the closest thing he has to a father. "I am the headmaster of this school so you really shouldn't be surprised that I would be patrolling." He said with a small smile, though he still looked at the blonde with worried eyes.

Of all the nights for Ozpin to be patrolling he chooses this night?! This is can't be a coincidence. Does he know about my conversation with Gilbert? No it couldn't be. As skilled as Ozpin is, he doubted that the man was able to go unnoticed by Gilbert.

Play it cool. That was his only option. "Sorry, you scared me a little. I was lost in thought… so I didn't … notice… you." Normally he wouldn't pause at all, since to show any delay would reveal falsehood. But the look on his godfather's face threw him off guard.

The man who always displayed a semi-neutral mask that was always impossible to gleam emotion from, whose eyes held mystery and whose form was tall and imposing. It was all gone without a trace of its existence. His face and eyes soften as if to say that it was okay to just talk to him. But most puzzling was his stance. He was completely wide open without a single way of defending. At his current state even a child could kill him. It was so surreal.

So lost with his thoughts he failed to realize that Ozpin was standing next to him now, brown eyes looking at the statue as if seeing an old friend he hasn't spoken to in years. "You're actually a lot like your father."

His father? Why bring him up now all of a sudden. Jaune remained silent knowing that it was better than just trying to leave now. So he was all ears for the headmaster of Beacon.

The headmaster's eyes continue to stare at the statue. "Your father would often look at this statue and would go on and on about surpassing every Arc that came before him." That was quite a goal. After all it is said that Noir Arc, the first of his name killed a hundred Grimm with a single swing of his sword (or so the legend states) "Do you want to know what I said to him?"

Despite the situation Jaune was rather curious. Ozpin and his father were the best of friends from what they have told him. So he nods giving the gray haired professor the approval to continue.

"I called him a fool. I told him that "people's limitations are set, fixed, and unchangeable. Only a fool wastes his time trying to become something he can never be.""

To say that Jaune was surprised would be an understatement. His dad and Ozpin were supposedly inseparable at their time at Beacon. So why would he say such a thing to his dad? Then again, not all friendships start off unbreakable. It takes time to form a connection and even longer to make it strong and unwavering.

"I didn't know you and dad had a rough start." He said with a hint of a smile.

"I'd say our relationship was similar to Miss Rose and Miss Schnee's." Now that was a scary thought… and funny if he had to be honest.

But as humorous as the thought of his dad and godfather bickering was, a thought occurred. "Wait you said something about limitations to my dad. Are you saying that he had a hard time getting stronger?"

At that Ozpin couldn't help but smile. It was almost childlike and made the older man look twenty years younger. "I guess I could tell you." Oh boy, that smile did not look as innocent as before. "Your father was the weakest student at the start of the year."

"What?!" But how?! His father was a former member of the Hunter Saints. He was known as The Silver Knight. Yet he was the weakest student. "Wait, if he was supposedly the weakest does that mean he was just painfully average?" Though it shouldn't be possible, Ozpin's smile widens even more. Oh come on!

"I'm afraid it's even worse. In truth your father was actually rather hopeless. He lost every practice match, failed every class and was also a failure at wooing girls." Sadly that didn't really come as a surprise to Jaune. "It wasn't until later that I discovered that he actually snuck his way into Beacon."

"…" That is rather sad actually. Jaune would have said so but he couldn't really bring himself to. It is his father after all. But he still couldn't hide the shock he had. "Are you saying that he used forged transcripts?" It was the only logical way to do it. But to think that his dad would do such a thing, it is quite a surprise. He knew that he would never do something like that even if he was weak and helpless.

"I'm afraid the thought never crossed his mind." Oh no. "While true that your father was an intelligent man with a great mind for strategy the same could not be said for his tact." Oh please no. "Your father simply snuck aboard the airship. Once we got off he apparently stormed the previous headmaster's office and demanded he get a chance to prove himself." As he told the story he couldn't help but let laughter escape. It was so surreal to see him like this. Ozpin was by no means a depressed man (from what Jaune can tell) but it was so unlike him to laugh like this. Honestly seeing him laugh at all is a shock. "Of course, he did that after throwing up in the nearest trash can."

Oh come on Dad! That is so un-cool! Thoughts of his first day come back to haunt him. Damn it!

"Back then when your father and I first became partners I felt rather unlucky. I actually wanted to be paired with either Glynda or your mother. They were the two best candidates after all. So I was rather relieved when they were paired with us as well." His smile faltered afterwards as he prepared his next words. "Like I once did, many of our peers patronized your father. No one had encouraged him in his time at Beacon. It was like the entire world was against him."

"No one believed in him?" Jaune's voice was shaky when he asked. Though he didn't want to admit it he actually wanted to cry. Cry for the man that had to endure such torture. Not just because he was his father, but because no one deserves such hatred and ridicule. He thought of that rabbit Faunus from earlier, who was ridiculed for her heritage.

Ozpin's smile from earlier returned and somehow was even wider than before. "Well, there was one person who was different."

One person? Jaune supposed that was better than having no one. So who was the person? According to Ozpin he and his dad didn't get along in the beginning. So was it Glynda? He actually doubted that, if Ozpin didn't like his father then Glynda probably wanted to kill him. "Who was it?"

Though Jaune only waited for a brief moment, it felt like a lifetime had gone by before Ozpin answered him. With his smile made, Ozpin utters the name, the name of the person who always believed in Rohan Arc.

"Her name was Elizabeth Valentine. She was the woman who supported Rohan since the very beginning." His eyes look at Jaune with warmth compared to his beloved coffee. "And was the woman he married and started a family with."

Jaune could only smile as the sound of his mother's name reached his ears. He had actually never heard his parents talk about how they fell in love. So to hear a small part of the tale made him feel… happy. This warmth in his chest, it was love. He knew for a fact that he wouldn't feel this again. Not any time soon at least. But this small little spark of light was just enough for him.

"You know, despite the disrespect that our fellow peers gave him, Rohan never once gave up. He replaced strength with resolution, talent with hard work, and intelligence with unpredictability. Until finally he gained those that he did not have while keeping what made him improve." After it was all said and done, Ozpin looked as the boy that reminded him of his dear friend. "That was Rohan Arc. That was the kind of man your father was."

Rohan Arc, who started off as a failure became one of Remnant's most well regarded huntsman. If he were being honest, Jaune felt pride swell inside him at the thought of his dad's stunning growth. But there is one thing that he didn't quite understand.

"You said that I remind you of dad, but I don't see how. You say that he started off with limited abilities. But I didn't, if anything he and I are the exact opposite." The older huntsman simply chuckled much to the confusion of his student. "Did I say something funny?"

"I wasn't referring to abilities. While true that your strength far exceeded his own when he was your age. What reminds me of him when I look at you is your determination. Like him you strive to become a hero."

A hero... If that is the case then he and his father are nothing alike after all. Jaune Arc can never be a hero. In fact, he could safely say that he was only the killer known as XIII.

Though he noticed the boy's frown, Ozpin continued. It was a sore topic but he needed to get his point across. "Like your father, you want nothing more than to protect the innocent from injustice. You do things that most individuals would normally shy away from. I can say with certainty that like Rohan, you wouldn't hesitate to surrender your own life for another's."

Without another word Ozpin patted his son's head, causing Jaune's cheeks to heat up immensely. His godfather hadn't done that in quite some time but… it was nice. It wasn't every day when he could feel like a boy in the presence of his father.

"Goodnight Jaune."

Wait that's it? But he didn't question me about staying past curfew. As Ozpin was walking off, Jaune continued to stare at him disbelievingly. That just couldn't be it. There had to have been an ulterior motive.

"Oh and Jaune." He turned his head to look at the confused blonde. "I told you to make friends did I not? I suggest you really make it a point in forming a connection with them."

Oh great this again. This was a rather annoying topic for Jaune but he couldn't do anything about it. The only thing he can do is listen and hope that Ozpin will finally understand how unnecessary this all is.

"Perhaps you should start by making amends with Miss Belladonna. It seems she has misunderstood your disappointment in Miss Scarlatina for something much worse." How did he know about that? Honestly the idea that Ozpin was able to go undetected by Gilbert doesn't seem so farfetched anymore. "Good luck in your endeavors Jaune, I am certain that your new clan will surprise you."

When Ozpin left, only one thought crossed Jaune's mind.

Fuck my life…

He could remember a little boy with blond hair who dreamt of being a hero of justice. To become the knight who saved the damsel in distress, to become the defender of the people, to have a sword to slay monsters and a shield to protect the innocent. It was a simplistic dream, but one he cherished nonetheless.

He remembered his father and his boasting about the accomplishments of their ancestors. Stories of heroism and glory were told, which fed the flames of desire to become a hero. He remembered his mother and her caring embrace, the pleasant warmth when she held him, how he felt safe in her arms, like no amount of danger could ever reach him. He remembered his elder sisters. He remembered how each one would protect him and how much they loved him. He could still hear it, the beautiful melodies that they would sing to put him to sleep.

Was this happiness? Yes. He was sure of it.

…

First comes destruction

But everything changed on that night.

There were flames that burned everything to ash, a pair of red eyes that could be seen behind the hellish fire. A red liquid unfamiliar to the boy was splattered around him, on his unnaturally quiet father, on his mother, who lay beside the man she loved with coldness that he never saw her with before, and on his unmoving sisters who could no longer sing their melodies. They wouldn't get up… and he didn't know why.

But it terrified him.

When he looked at his hands he saw the same red substance. His mind couldn't process the horror in front of him, yet he still shed a tear. It was a single tear that turned into sobs. Sobs that only continued to grow as the single pair of red eyes inched closer to him

Then there was a blinding flash of white light, which faded into black.

Laying on the grass covered by the shade of the healthy green tree he was beneath; Jaune Arc slept in silent peace. It was warm and pleasant for the young hunter in training. The gentle breeze helped him relax and forget about his unfortunate circumstances here at Beacon. As he has spent his time here in Beacon he realized that it was rather difficult to interact with his new "friends". Each person in his (still unnamed) clan was so different compared to him and the members of the program. He didn't understand what the difference was at first.

But then it clicked.

Unlike him, they had one thing that he lost. They all had their happiness. He remembered his past life, when he had his own joy, when his heart wasn't missing. Back then he dreamt of having a happy life. Becoming a huntsman was the first step into realizing his childish dream. He wanted friendships that would last a lifetime. He wanted a family he could love.

"I really was an idiotic child."

Jaune sat up not paying the white lilies of the valley any mind. Normally he would marvel at a flower's beauty but he was too tired to care at the moment. With a yawn he rubbed his tired eyes as he dug through his pocket to take out his scroll and unlock it. The time was 3:32 which meant there was still time for his nap. He wasn't going to attend classes today anyways so it was fine.

"Would you like to explain why you are currently skipping class!?" An evil he had not felt in quite some time, an evil so dark that it despises other evil. This was it, he knew it. He was about to meet a fate worse than death.

A lecture from his godmother…

'Such misfortune'

Jaune looked towards Glynda with a nervous smile. 'Surely she would let it slide for my sake'. He was her pride and joy after all, or so she said. So it wasn't so farfetched to think he might get away with it.

"You're not getting away with it this time. This is the third time this week that you've neglected your classes." Glynda's voice seethed as she spoke, yet she expressed her concern as well.

Jaune was and will always be her primary concern. It wasn't because he was the son of her deceased friends, but the young man was the closest thing to a son she has ever had. She watched over him for 9 years, even as he trained as a member of the Jaegers. He and Ozpin meant the world to her.

But even though she loved her child she couldn't condone Jaune's negligence of his studies, and more importantly his negligence of his clan. And as much as she hated to admit it, he was only an empty shell. The life in his eyes that he had shown to everyone was a sham. She could see it, when he didn't think anyone was looking she saw the lifelessness in his eyes. How cold and dull they were.

It terrified her.

"Come on, I know all the material here like the back of my hand." Jaune said as he remained seated on the healthy green grass. He cracked a smile as he looked up at the good witch. "So whaddya say, up for a nap with your favorite son?"

All he received in return was a glare that could kill Grimm. 'Wish I had that.' His smile drops in defeat. "I'll take that as a no."

With a sigh "Jaune, I know you're ready for your hunting license, but please understand that Ozpin and I are doing this for your benefit."

He didn't give his mother a glance as his expression hardened. He wasn't concerned about his own "benefit". What he was concerned about was the Grimm. And besides, an opportunity for a normal life was taken away from him a long time ago. The yearning to become a huntsman is not because of some childish dream, but of a realization. The world's corruption and evil cannot be changed by heroes. The world can only be changed by killers.

To truly defeat darkness one must not bathe in light. Light is what must be protected and cherished. It is not a weapon. So what defeats the darkness if not the light? The answer is obvious. To vanquish darkness, one must use darkness.

As Jaune continued to look away, his godmother sat beside him. They were in complete silence as they looked at the gardens of Beacon. The many white flowers were not yet in full bloom, but they still held their beauty. The serenity of the garden was the reason why the young assassin chose this place to nap. He continued to stare at the white flowers, his mind absent of thought.

Until he felt his head dragged down to lay on something cushiony. His gaze his directed up and his blue eyes are met by Glynda's stunning emerald gaze. She smiled as her eyes conveyed concern and affection for him. Resting his head on her lap was like resting on a cloud. It was so peaceful and comforting to be like this, to be watched over by a loving guardian. His smile gave away such thoughts and only made Glynda's smile brighten as a result.

She was so beautiful, he noted. The woman who had taken care of him since he was a boy did not lose any of her beauty or radiance. Her hand brushed a few strands of blonde hair away from his unnaturally peaceful expression.

"I know you're frustrated with us." She said as her hand gently ran her fingers through Jaune's hair. "And I know that you don't want to be here." He remained silent as she spoke feeling horrible as he looked at her. All the warmth and confidence he felt before her arrival had vanished. The reason was unknown to him, but he knew that Glynda was in terrible pain as well he could hear it in her voice. Was he the reason?

"But please understand." She continued as her smile began to falter, her hand continued to stroke her child's hair. "We… I want you to be happy."

"Happy?" Jaune spoke at last.

With a nod "Yes, you are undoubtedly strong. You are also so very kind. You ensure that others do not suffer, by taking on challenges alone. An admirable trait that many people lack." Glynda's gaze is set on the flowers of the garden again. "But just like those flowers, you have yet to blossom." Blue eyes also gaze at the flowers again as she spoke. "If you just let people take care of you, then you will bloom. However, without care you will wither before you can reach your potential."

With shut eyes, Jaune was in deep thought. Could he form friendships with his team? Could he befriend three hyperactive girls, two stoic book worms, an heiress and a champion? For the first time in quite a while, he did not have the answers. But he did know one thing. His guardian, the woman he admired and loved for years was in great pain. And it was because of him.

"I understand." His eyes were no longer shut and his eyes met with Glynda's. "I'll attend my classes and I'll do my best to make friends. I promise."

She smiled approvingly and lovingly. "Good, now you should get to class."

With a sigh "Can we stay like this a bit longer?" he pleaded.

With her own sigh she answered. "Just this once." They both smiled as they enjoyed the garden together as mother and son.

Until they heard the vibration of someone's scroll. It wasn't his so he knew it was his godmother's. He sits up so Glynda can check who the caller was. He sees her brow rise when she checks who the caller is.

"Odd, Ozpin rarely calls during the day. Could it be an emergency?" She hits accept and the image of the headmaster is displayed, his eyes that share the same color as his favorite beverage revealing his mirth. "Why do I have the feeling that whatever is amusing you will simply aggravate me?"

The gray haired professor chuckled at that. He knew all too well that the things he found amusement in only served to irritate his deputy. "Forgive me Glynda, but I'm afraid your absence from combat training has caused a… situation to arise."

With a hand upon her forehead. "Don't tell me. Teams RWBY and JNPR are the cause of this."

He only smiled before sipping his coffee without a care in the world. This only served to annoy her even more. Of course Ozpin was carefree. Why shouldn't he be? He isn't the one who has to fix whatever mess those children have caused. No the responsibility fell on her.

"I'll be sure to clean up the mess, Headmaster."

"Please do Glynda. But don't be too hard on them, they are still young so it's only natural that-"

END CALL flashed on Ozpin's screen before he could finish.

He paid the abrupt end to the call with no indication of worry. While true that an angry Glynda could destroy a herd of fully grown Goliaths with her glare alone, he knew he wasn't in any danger. In fact, it is when his right hand woman is angry that he is able to find entertainment in the school. "I almost feel bad for Miss Rose and her friends…" He takes another drink of his coffee before using his scroll to bring up an image of the combat arena which is littered with multiple unconscious bodies of students. "Hmm, so eleven students will need to go to the infirmary." In the video feed he sees an explosion go off sending another student flying out of the building. "Now where could he be-"

The window behind him shatters and the student from earlier lands in front of him.

"My, it seems my math was off. Twelve students."

As Jaune was closely following his godmother through the halls (Which all the students stepped aside as they knew all too well the rage of Glynda) he noticed something… grave. While true that he has seen her angry before (him and Ozpin being the cause), he had never seen the woman's anger towards the shenanigans of her students. The anger he senses from her is far more… darker. Note to self, don't get involved in the antics of my clan. However, memories of his previous conversations with Glynda and Ozpin about becoming their friend surfaced, causing his lips to turn downward. Never mind, if I'm going to become their friend then I suppose I have to be included in their mischief… my life isn't going to last very long is it?

"I am absent from my duties for one day and all hell breaks loose!" The rightfully angered Witch exclaimed. She decides to take off for one day to teach her boy an important lesson, and here she learns that the newly formed clan of misfits, Except for my respectful son of course is causing trouble. However, though her fury was unparalleled, even in comparison to Yang's usual flaming sun of uncontrollable rage, or even the newly discovered indignation of Blake Belladonna. The wrath of Glynda Goodwitch had yet to reach its apex.

I would prefer it if I didn't have to experience such horror Jaune thought with a hint of genuine fear. Whatever his clan was doing he hoped they had no regrets. For the afterlife would soon be their new home. While drowned in his thoughts Jaune almost failed to realize that they were in the combat room. And by Monty did the sight before him leave him speechless. "Oh my Monty Oum!"

The once pristine training room that was shined everyday thanks to the hard working efforts of the custodian staff of Beacon was in total ruin. Massive craters caused by dust explosives scarred the room ranging from the pavement, floors, audience stands and even the roof. There was even a human shaped hole in the ceiling. That poor unfortunate bastard This room without a doubt housed a war that would be remembered for decades. Legends of what transpired here will be carved in the annals of time and the feats accomplished will never be seen or heard of again. Seriously, Jaune didn't even know how someone's underwear could be lost during a fight. That was a feat rather impressive if the assassin had to admit.

And standing in the center of all this destruction, this horror… was the entirety of his clan all unconscious from the 'war' they participated in. Well, save for one.

"Miss Nikos, please explain to me what exactly transpired here?" The redhead who could barely leave her eyes open jumped at the sudden question. It only took her moments to realize that it was Miss Goodwitch with her riding crop ready to discipline the trouble makers. "Well?"

At first the only response Glynda was given by the Mistral champion was a nervous laugh as she was rubbing her disarrayed hair. "Well it's actually a rather humorous story Professor." She began to laugh nervously hoping to ease the tension, but stopped when she saw the woman's un-amused stare.

Jaune continued to watch at the student and teacher conversing with one another. Well more like a student fidgeting while being glared at. Never thought I'd see Nikos in this kind of situation. It's actually rather funny. He concluded with an unnatural grin.

Suddenly the familiar voice of a cute adorable scythe wielder got their attention. "Aw my head." The three people who are awake in the room look at the now fourth conscious person. As Ruby was rubbing her tired eyes she stood up showing the dirt and tear her combat wear currently had. A few strands of her black red hair sticking out at a few random spots adding to the look of fatigue the girl had.

As her silver eyes adjust to the light she sees, to her horror, Miss Goodwitch with her already infamous glare. The first time she met the huntress she was disciplined on that exact day. AND SHE WASN'T EVEN A STUDENT YET! Despite the inner storm that raged in her mind, Ruby had to appear calm and in charge. She had to play it cool. Easy.

With a deep breath and her eyes closed, she would soon begin her masterfully crafted story to avoid any detention. It was full proof. So with a smile she opened her eyes to

Meet the gaze of death itself. Crap oh crap oh crap oh crap!

"Miss Rose you are to tell me the exact details of what transpired here this instant!" Ruby didn't even have time to react as her hand met the sting of Glynda's riding crop.

"Owie!" Holding her red hand, Ruby began to look at Glynda with wide glassy eyes.

With sudden realization, Jaune's blue eyes widen in disbelief. It can't be! She's using the puppy dog look! And her form is flawless! Tis true. She has her face tilted downward slightly at the perfect angle, allowing her eyes to be fully displayed in all their cuteness while still showing that she was despondent and sorry for her actions. Her arms are behind her back with one foot slightly back showing a nervous side as well! Truly Ruby Rose is a formidable opponent.

SMACK ATTACK

A slap on the head with Glynda's riding crop ends the puppy dog look however. It seems the veteran huntress is impervious to even the most adorable of faces. Indeed, Ruby is quite capable, but she is still but a student in the presence of a master.

"I will not ask again. What did you do?"

With a gulp Ruby told the grand story of what transpired.

Blake Belladonna was beyond frustrated. She was in a state of blind rage and fury and didn't even realize that all the students sat away from her. Even her own team and that blonde jerk's team distanced themselves from her.

The intensity and fire that the rage in her eyes held made Yang's own blazing eyes pale in comparison. Today she was supposed to teach that racist blonde jerk a lesson but he didn't even have the courage to attend any of his classes. It was combat training, the last class of the day and Jaune was nowhere to be found.

She was already planning on ignoring him in Literature, but the absence of his presence made her angry! No! LIVID! Not only was her clan leader a discriminatory bastard but he was a coward too!

As Blake is venting her frustration in her own thoughts, RWY and NPR were currently huddled together to determine the best course of action.

"I say we brea-"

"Nora" Ren reprimanded

"-sprain her legs." Nora corrected with a grin.

"Better but still no." Ren said without expressing much emotion. Ruby and the others still couldn't wrap their heads around how the two were such good friends. The stoic member of the team did well to never display too much of his feelings, while his childhood friend was a completely different story.

A hand shot up a moment later.

"Ruby you don't have to raise your hand." Weiss said as she was checking her nails.

"Right sorry, well anyways I have an idea." An idea from Ruby sounds nice. She is a leader so one would think that she would come up with a sound idea. "We can beat the frustration out of her."

Or not

"Perhaps you would like to elaborate seeing as how this barbaric plan of yours is something only your sister and Nora would think of." Weiss said with a frown. She does have a point though.

Yang speaks up, while having an unnatural and unwanted frown. "Look little sis, I'm not sure if I want to calm her down by fighting." As much as she enjoyed a good fight she didn't really want to fight her partner as she is now. Besides, what does beating Blake in a fight have to do with calming her down?

As if reading her sister's mind, she explains. "Look, it's obvious that Blake wants to fight really badly. So I say we give her a good fight so she can calm down."

"Ruby as brilliant as that plan is-" Weiss began which just screamed sarcasm. Though her partner apparently missed it, as Ruby's adorable face had the biggest smile that could only be categorized as the cutest thing in all of Remnant. "You're forgetting that Blake wants to fight Jaune. What would be the point of one of us fighting her?"

Ruby frowned at that. And she really thought that she had a great idea too.

"That might just work actually." Pyrrha said as she was deep in thought. This earned a cheer from the Ruby and a (rightfully) confused Weiss. "I think what Ruby means, is that we should get Blake to vent all of her aggression and energy at us. That way when the day is over she and Jaune can just talk things out. Isn't that right Ruby?" Pyrrha turned towards the younger girl with an understanding smile.

"What?" She only blinked once. "I mean. Yeah, you totally got the deep meaning of my elaborate plan!" With a fist raised towards the heavens and her silver eyes that radiate determination she declares. "Operation-beat-Blake-up-so-she-can-calm-down-and-talk-to-Jaune-so-they-can-sort-things-out-and-be-friends-again may now…" With a deep breath. "Begin!"

At this very moment the Schnee heiress could do nothing but hide her face with her palm, as she was ashamed to be on the team known as RWBY. "This can't end well."

As Ruby was prepared to initiate her full proof plan she stopped when the usually quiet martial artist of the group pointed out a very important fact. "I don't wish to deter you from your plan Ruby, but this can easily get out of control. Furthermore, Professor Goodwitch isn't here currently. So perhaps we should stay docile until her arrival."

Blinking, Ruby looks at the spot where the stern teacher normally was but found no sight of her. Huh, the mentioned teacher really is gone. No matter. The younger teenager smirked knowing that they didn't need Miss Goodwitch for her plan.

With her unrivaled speed she appears on stage to address the class. "Alright everyone as leader of team RWBY and second in command of Beacon's first ever clan in history I declare myself to be the teacher for the day!" Despite all the incredulous stares she received she paid them no mind. Her silver eyes sparkle with glee as she states her first command as a (unofficial) substitute teacher. "For today's match up will be Blake Belladonna versus everyone!"

After hearing her name called, Blake realized that everyone was staring at her. What was even stranger was the fact that the leader of her team was standing in the center of stage with a wide grin.

This can't end well.

"SO WHO'S FIRST?!" Ruby shouted her question that even Monty could hear in his throne at the afterlife.

"First for what?" Blake asked still unaware of what was truly going on. Truly Miss Belladonna has an unfortunate soul.

Despite how quiet the stoic girl was, Ruby somehow heard her as if she were a Faunus herself with incredible hearing. "To be your opponent of course! I can't let everyone fight you at once!" She exclaimed that last part as she maintained her excited smile.

It was at that moment when Blake put the pieces together, and realized how painful today would truly be. All she wanted to do was teach Arc a lesson. A very. Important. Painful. Lesson. So why is life so unfair for her?

"And that's how it happened." Ruby said concluding the story. "Though as we progressed through my plan, things were getting out of control."

"I told you." Ren mumbled in his sleep. No one really paid attention to him but that was probably for the best. The man needed his beauty sleep.

The two blondes who paid attention to the whole story were in complete disbelief. This destruction was caused because they wanted Blake Belladonna to expend her energy. That was it…

Both blondes without realizing surmised the same conclusion from this story.

Ruby Rose is insane.

"Question." Jaune said. Ruby nodded signaling for him to ask away. "How did you know about the parts that weren't your point of view?

…

…

"So now that that's over with, I'm just gonna head on over to my dorm. I'm sure you have lots of things to talk about with my team once they wake up. So bye." Leaving behind a trail of rose petals, Ruby speeds off. She was at full speed when she started her sprint. So it was a surprise to her when she realized she wasn't gaining any distance from the scary professor. Curious, she looks at her feet to see that her feet were above the ground and were glowing purple.

Like her feet, Ruby had a faint purple hue around her body. The small girl levitated towards her professor but not of her free will. "And where do you think you are going?"

"Uh… the bathroom?" The young girl stated this more as a question which only darkened the glare she was given.

"I'm afraid you'll have to hold it in until I give you and the rest of your clan detention for today's events." She looked over at the still awake Pyrrha and the unconscious members for emphasis.

"Glad I didn't take part of it." Jaune said with a smile. Much to his disappointment though, his godmother only turned her head with a stern glare directed towards him. "What?" His body began to glow the same purplish hue as Ruby and was levitated a foot off the ground. "What the hell!?"

He would have continued to voice his complaints, and with more volume, if not for Glynda's piercing gaze that could skewer him like a shish kabob. I am so screwed aren't I?

"As the active leader of your clan you are held responsible for allowing the current events that transpired in my absence."

"But I was with you during said absence!" He has a point though.

"Yes, but you are the reason I was away from my duties." Ah, she has made a better point. The one woman jury hereby sentences Jaune Arc, to two hours of detention with no bathroom breaks allowed.

"… I hate my life."

"I hate my life." Yang mumbled to herself as she was seated in hell. Honestly, she didn't know how this day could get any worse… Yang got the feeling that she would be proven wrong soon. And knowing her luck during today's events she was absolutely certain that it would happen in the span of five minutes.

"1…2…3…"

"What are you doing?" Weiss looked at Yang with the coldest gaze she had ever seen. And that in of itself was terrifying. Weiss's glares have caused any unfortunate flirt to freeze… quite literally. Yang didn't even know if the previous victim had thawed yet. She had to admit the guy was cute and could provide her some sport.

Though it wouldn't lead to anything passed flirting. Contrary to popular belief she wasn't just some party girl who had a new boyfriend each week. In fact she had never had a boyfriend or even had a crush for that matter. She didn't even have one for her leader and friend, Jaune. Despite the constant flirting with him she was by no means interested. Sure he was cute, admittedly hot. But she wasn't here for a relationship. That would just cause unnecessary distractions and that was something she did not need. And while on the topic of Jaune.

She looked forward to see Jaune's black clothed back side. The guy was reading 'Probably that book he likes' most likely not paying attention to anything or anyone around him. After that whole argument between him and Blake, Yang has been at an impasse on who to support. While Blake was her partner, she thought that exploding at Jaune was a bit much. Though it was weird to see her friend do that, was Blake a huge supporter of the Faunus? Nevertheless, and as ironic as it is for Yang to even think this. There was no need for Blake to let her emotions run rampant. But on the other hand, Jaune was, admittedly, being rather heartless during that exchange. Yang never would have guessed that Wonder Boy disliked the Faunus. While she didn't agree with his point of view she didn't judge so long as he didn't act like Cardin. After all, what you like and dislike was inevitably your own choice.

"77…78…79…" Yang continued counting, much to Weiss's annoyance.

"You dolt, did you not hear me the first time?!"

"Miss Schnee, settle down before I make you." Miss Goodwitch was seated in front of them, her riding crop in her hand just waiting to strike someone's delicate hand. They all knew the danger thanks to the useful intel from Ruby.

The heiress simply remained quiet, going back to do her homework though this time with cheeks that was an unnatural red. If there was one thing scarier than Weiss's glare, it was the blood-curdling gaze of Glynda Goodwitch.

100…101…102 After seeing Miss Goodwitch get on Weiss's case, Yang did not want to take any chances speaking out loud even if she were to whisper. To trifle with the deputy headmistress of Beacon Academy, was no different than tying the rope around her neck herself. Honestly suicide was the preferable option in this case.

113…114...

The door opened suddenly causing Yang and everyone else to almost jump out of their seats, with the exception of Jaune and Blake as they were both invested in their respected book. While each step causes his belly to visibly shake up and down, Peter Port walks in with his usual jolly old self. Why he decided to visit, Yang couldn't tell you.

"Why hello Glynda, you're looking as lovely as always I see!" Port bellowed. Despite the compliment Goodwitch rubbed at her head and muttered to herself about the man's brashness.

"Hello Professor Port, what can I do for you?" She asked getting straight to the point.

"Why what a silly question, it should be obvious." The larger professor gave his colleague a smile. "Tis a fine Thursday night to relax the mind and body, Glynda! And as such you should utilize this scarce window of opportunity!"

With a sigh "Professor Port, while I appreciate-" Seeing her older colleague bring his hand up, she stops talking allowing Port to continue.

"Glynda, you strain yourself far too much. Much like how our prospering hunters-in-training follow by our example, you too should emulate them." Knowing that Glynda did not quite understand him (if her confused eyes didn't give it away.) he continues. "Like our students you should learn to ease yourself. While remaining diligent is indeed an essential aspect of our profession. Knowing when to be at ease is just as important." With a smile that finally put Glynda at ease. "Allow me to watch over the youths in your stead and allow yourself some well deserved rest."

Goodwitch probably knew that he wouldn't take no for an answer, as she just nods removing herself from the desk. "I'll leave the students in your care then. Goodbye Professor Port." Before she left, Glynda narrowed her eyes at Yang and the other students. She couldn't continue the threat her gaze held as Port pushed her away from the room and slammed the door shut.

"Alright students, I will be your careta-"

The door slammed open, Professor Goodwitch leaning in. Her eyes contained the warning of a swift and decisive punishment if anything were to happen in her absence again. Yang didn't even know that she and her friends nodded to the silent threat. Contempt with their cooperation, Goodwitch slammed the door.

A sigh of relief escapes everyone in the same instant, but with the exception of Jaune and Blake as they were still reading. Seriously, how is that even possible? Yang simply let out a sigh. On a brighter note it looked like her prediction was wrong. With Professor Goodwitch gone she didn't have to worry about the constant gaze of death. Things are looking up for the blonde.

218…

Still she counted knowing that anything could happen with her terrible luck. Staying positive was important but so was being realistic. Though would it kill the universe to give me a break? Yang looked at the clock to see it inching towards the future, the time currently a quarter pass six. Detention started at six! Why must the passage of time be slower than Nora's favorite animal!? Move faster you damn clock!

238…239…

At 240 Yang couldn't help but bang her head on the desk. Detention ends at EIGHT! Well on the bright side, four minutes since she started counting the situation hasn't gotten any worse which was a plus. She still had some counting to do. Speaking of which…

249…250…251…

This was so boring. But for some reason she knew that something horrible was going to happen. The hunch was just that, a hunch. Nevertheless, Yang Xiao Long was not going to let her guard down. If something were to happen, well… she would be prepared for anything.

"My, it would seem that we will be here for quite some time." Glad you noticed Professor. Honestly, how was Port an actual hunter? The only thing that Yang could find dangerous about him was his- oh god… no it all makes sense now. Why else would she continue to count towards the predicted five minute mark of 'shit getting worse'?

"Spending all this time in noiseless isolation would truly be a waste of time. But what can we possibly do?" Professor Port held his chin in thought. All the while Yang was praying to Monty Oum to show her mercy. Not just for her but for her innocent little sister. Ruby didn't deserve this. If needed, Yang would gladly shield Ruby from harm. Though she may die, at least her sister would survive.

287…288…

"Ah-hah! I've got it! A story!" Oh please no! Don't do it! "I may be your professor but I too was young!"

294…

"And like you, I was quite the mischievous one in my youth." Already he was starting to bore everyone in the room.

300… Here it comes.

"Why, I remember my first time in detention as a lad!"

And so it begins.

"You had to have been there children!" Port said with genuine pride.

BANG!

"Why, the amount of times I escaped the wrath of my teachers was incalculable!"

BANG!

"My instructors even called me the Potbelly of mischief!" More like the Portbelly of boredom. At least Yang was able to have fun during her suffering, though it was a real shame that her friends couldn't hear that great pun. Oh wait she forgot to do something.

BANG!

Yang's forehead was a bright red now, but despite the migraine (Mainly from that horrible story) she was feeling much better. It was finally over! Detention had to be done by now. Looking at the clock Yang saw the little hand on the seven, and for the first time he had hope. Yang's eyes trail to the big hand and with her new found hope… turned to dust. It was on the one… the big hand that was supposed to lead the way to salvation had betrayed Yang's dream of freedom.

"Well, look at that! It seems we still have time for another grand story from my youth!"

No, please anything but that! But Yang's plea would not reach the jolly professor. Clearing his throat, Professor Port prepares his next story of his adventures as a strong, intelligent handsome lad (all in Port's own words), while Yang prepared her aching brain for more torture.

"Ah what a nice read." Yang and everyone else who wasn't Blake looked at the only other blonde in the room. Jaune had a content smile as he set his red hard book on his desk. Jaune looked away from his book for the first time during their hour of torture. His eyes trail towards Professor Port and his left brow was raised. "When did you get here Professor Port?"

Seriously?! Jaune was that invested in his book! That shouldn't be mentally possible! Yet he was able to do it. Does doing the impossible just come natural to Jaune Arc? Regardless, Yang for the first time in her life was jealous of the greatness that is reading. I want a book too damn it!

"I must say young lad, to be so dedicated to your love of literature is truly inspiring! Why, when I was a lad-"

"Oh look at that, forgot to read these other twenty chapters! Have fun with your story!" Picking up the book with haste, his blue eyes are glued to the printed words on the pages.

"Understood my boy- please carry on!" Seeing that Jaune didn't respond, Port's smile widens assuming that the young man was lost in the pages of a different world, hopefully a world where war was but a distant memory, or perhaps a world where a young lad could prove his worth to the world, a lad who must be like Me! Why else would Mr. Arc partake in a story that is not my own? Truly, I will have to read this exciting tale of adventure myself!

While in Jaune's thought process.

Don't pay attention to Port and read. Don't pay attention to Port and read. For the love of all that is holy do not pay attention to Port and just read! Hearing the large professor clear his throat, his mental alarms blared for all his brain cells to hear and prepare to help tune the man's voice out. Oh no! He's about to start!

Before Professor Port could start his tale of adventure, and Jaune to prepare to ignore the untold story. Someone was knocking on the door. Mumbling about not being able to tell his story, Port walks towards the door and opens it.

"Mr. Winchester? Are you also here for detention? If so your tardiness is unbecoming of a huntsman-in-training." The disappointment in Port's voice was clear, but knowing Cardin he didn't really care. "But truly, the real pity of your absence was the unfortunate fact that you did not hear one of my various tales as a young man!" Of course he would be disappointed about that…

Port has a slight jump coming to a realization. "Ah but of course! Tis quite simple really!" Cardin's body tensed before Port even said his next words. Cardin knew what was coming next, everyone in the room did… except for Blake. "To remedy this regretful absence, I must merely retell the tale of how I bravely threw a cabbage at my combat instructor!"

That's what his story was about? Jaune looked at his fellow peers and saw (with the exception of Blake) that they were all silently crying. Even Nora couldn't help but cover her eyes with Ren's sleeve. Already, Jaune could see wet stains appearing as the usually cheerful girl allowed all her despair to flow out in the form of water. All the while, Ren stood as stoic as ever, but for a moment, Jaune could almost swear that he saw tears in those pink eyes of his. Well I guess that answers my question. And why are they acting so out of character?

Then again, these were Port's stories so he guessed it shouldn't be so hard to believe.

"Actually, Professor Port. Professor Goodwitch asked me to get Jaune. She wants to talk to him apparently." Despite being on the verge of death by boredom just seconds ago, he said this with a grin.

That was a lie and Jaune didn't even need to put much thought into it. There was no need for Glynda to have a student retrieve him and even if she did, Cardin would be her last option. Scratch that, he didn't even think his godmother would consider the mace wielder as an option. Besides, Glynda was the one who assigned him detention so what would be the point of letting him go? Honestly, even Ruby who's as gullible as a four year old could see pass tha-

"Very well then!" The apparently gullible professor looked at Jaune. "Follow Mr. Winchester and remember. Stay vigilant."

Well at least he didn't have to stay in detention anymore. That was a plus at least. Without a word, Jaune stood from his seat and approached Cardin. As he was walking, from the corner of his eyes, Jaune's gaze met amber irises. It was cobalt in the presence of brilliant gold.

For the first time during detention Blake had finally stopped reading. What she read wasn't really important at the moment. No one would understand the art she read anyways. It was not smut!

Their exchange of glances was only for an instant before Blake ignored him, looking the opposite direction. Jaune did the same, looking forward at the bully of Beacon Academy.

"Let's go, Jauney boy."

This really is going to be a long night.

When Jaune and Cardin left, Blake set her book down. Though she would rather keep reading, seeing those two together got her blood boiling and also made her remember yesterday's event. How could Jaune be so heartless? Blake didn't even want to believe it and she didn't know why she was thinking about this so much. She didn't really know her clan leader that well since she only had a handful of conversations with him. And even then, Jaune always seemed on guard when the two spoke. Then again... so was she.

Maybe the reason why I don't want to accept it is because… She could remember that Death Bringer clearly. She remembered how close she was to dying, the fear that swelled within her heart when that beast proved nearly unstoppable.

…because… With a smile she recalled how strong Jaune was, but more importantly. She could remember his determination for saving them. Like his brilliant aura, Jaune had shined so bright. Blake didn't think she could ever be like that for she was no better than a monster. Her eyes narrow as she recalled all the people she killed during her time in the White Fang. Those frightened faces were scarred into her memory.

… I really wanted Jaune to be different. This time Blake looked at her new friends. She smiled as she stared at them. Like everyone else. I wanted him to be a wonderful friend.

There is one thing strange however. Blake's eyes notice that all her friends seemed… lifeless? They lost all their energy even Nora of all people seemed devoid of any. Ren was right next to his childhood friend, but with wet stains on his sleeve for some reason.

Blake's partner kept banging her head on the table, every time the blonde's head rose up she saw a bright red mark on her forehead. Which was odd considering that she had aura to protect her but Blake didn't question it.

Weiss was doing her best to stay regal like the heiress she was. But Blake could see the slight twitch in her eyes as she continued to do nothing. An ice storm was approaching it seems.

Ruby, much like Nora seemed like she was devoid of all energy. Her pale skin was even whiter than Weiss's at this point. Perhaps they should call an ambulance for the poor girl.

Really, what could be causing her friends such trouble? With a roll of her eyes, Blake turned towards-

Why is Professor Port here?

Gold eyes widen as Blake's mind finally grasps how dire the current situation is. She had to hurry before she was too late.

"Knowing that my tenacity and strength far surpassed that pesky Goliath's, I quickly dragged it down with my bare hands!" Tune him out. Tune him out. Tune him out. "Following that glorious battle, I had left for my village to bring news of my victory!" He said this with such pride, but sadly his pride came at the cost of Blake and everyone else's sanity. Just read the next chapter and I should be able to tune him out. "Shockingly however, when I returned I had failed to notice that my undergarments had been lost in the battle! Naturally, as the handsome man that I am all the women of my village couldn't keep their wandering eyes away from me! And as I'd expected they were all captivated by the size and girth of my-" Oh god the image, burn it out burn it out!

Courtesy of Professor Port, Blake could no longer read Ninja's of Love for the day. For every time she would read her favorite se- passionate scenes. She could only see one image… and she'd rather not talk about it.

"Care to repeat that, Winchester." Jaune said with a bored expression. As expected, Cardin didn't bring him to Glynda. Instead, he was in team Cardinal's dorm room with the entire team staring at him. The room had plenty of posters of bands that he didn't really know of. In the corner of the room was a relatively large flat screen TV with a game console on the floor below it. How one of them brought those pieces of technology, Jaune didn't know.

"Look Arc" Cardin started with a smirk that just screamed mischief. "It's really simple. I want us to team up. I saw that little glaring contest between you and Blake."

So apparently, Cardin had heard the conversation at lunch somehow. Rolling his blue eyes "So you want me to help you bully that rabbit Faunus? Am I understanding that correctly?"

"100%" Cardin and his lackeys laugh as they wait for Jaune's answer. "I'm not gonna lie, Jauney Boy. I didn't like you at first what with you attracting every girl in Beacon."

What the hell is he talking about?

"Then you made me look like a complete fool during our match. But seeing you at the cafeteria yesterday got me realizing something." Oh joy. "You and I know that those animals don't belong here. So I say with the five of us we send all those freaks a lesson." Jaune remained silent as the members of team Cardinal stare at him, all grinning with wicked intent. The leader of the all guy team brought his hand out to shake.

"So, how about it?"

Jaune sighed, placing his hands in his pockets, and walks towards the leader of Cardinal, only to walk past him as if he didn't exist. Walking to the door to leave, Jaune could hear the members of Cardinal shift from their positions, probably ready to stop him. He didn't even bother to stop knowing that they wouldn't do anything. Placing his hand on the door knob, he looks back at Cardin. His eyes did not belong to the hunter in training Jaune Arc. These were the eyes of the killer, known as XIII. "When and where will you confront her?"

Cardin couldn't help but grin knowing what this was leading to. "If you mean the bunny girl we'll be teaching that freak a lesson tomorrow night when classes are over." While sitting on his bed. "As for the location well what better spot than the combat room." Though seemingly impossible, his smirk held even more depravity. "So does that mean you're in?"

As he opens the door, his back turned towards them again. Jaune gives them his answer. And what his answer was "I'll be there." made Cardin a very happy man.

Omake (My first one)

Sitting in silence for two hours without anything to do was the equivalent of hell. For most teenagers that is. Lie Ren on the other hand is not your typical teenager. While most his age would enjoy parties, he would prefer to mediate. And despite being a huntsman-in-training he would gladly choose a bed over his twin pistols, Stormflower.

When it comes to entering the dream land no one can match my resolve. At the end of the day, Lie Ren enjoyed peace and quiet. And after the stunt Ruby pulled. Well, the concept of two hours of silent peace was even more appealing than it has ever been. He didn't even know that was possible.

Well that was what he hoped anyways.

When they first began their detention, Professor Goodwitch explained what was prohibited during their time in detention. The first obvious rule was 'no leaving the class room' which Ruby vocally protested against, uttering something about cookies waiting for her under a pillow. Ren didn't think it was possible, but he had a hunch that Nora and Ruby were long lost sisters and that the corrupted Xiao Long family kidnapped Ruby when she was a young baby thus separating the sisters… I think Nora is starting to get to me.

The second rule was the banning of any video games on anyone's person. No one really complained about it since none of them had a game system. Well none that they know of. I too have secrets of my own.

Then there was the third rule. Whoever created this heinous rule deserves nothing less than a slow gruesome death that he alone deserves to carry out. When Ren heard the rule that completed the unholy trinity of detention, his heart was torn asunder. This blasphemy of a rule was…

"Ren?"

"Whoa, uh, yes?" Nora looked at him with an understanding smile. And though startled, Ren donned his semi neutral mask knowing that he didn't want to worry his best friend. Despite how cruel and evil the third rule was he would have to bear it for her sake. So with a small smile "What is it Nora?

With his friend's usual wide grin that Ren is so accustomed to. "I know how hard that third rule is on you Ren. But don't worry! We won't be here forever so you just have to be patient." Ren truly was lucky to have such a supportive friend, and would never take her for granted.

However, as comforting as her words were Ren was beginning to lose the will power to stop himself. Normally he would be in his dorm and allow him life's greatest pleasure. But with that villainous third rule how could he do what he loves most?

Once again Nora spoke, hoping to ease his pain. "Don't worry Ren, once we get back to our dorms you can sleep all you want." The third rule, the rule that can only be described as the reincarnation of evil itself, was the prohibiting of any sleep in detention. Truly Miss Goodwitch is an evil woman one whose darkness eclipses that of the Grimm

All these thoughts are wasting his limited energy sadly and his vision was becoming darker the longer he resisted. Ren didn't know how much longer his strength would last. Damn it! I'm nearing my limit! His struggle was of greater proportions than any war in recorded history! And he was forced to face it alone! Alone…

Feeling someone's hands on his cheeks, his face was forcefully turned to Nora, with a smile different from any other before it. It was a smile that had no trace of her usual wildness, a smile that only showed comfort and… love? He almost failed to register her words when she finally spoke to him. "You're not alone Ren."

Magenta eyes widen. Nora was right. How could he be so foolish? He was never once alone. For all these years she has always been beside him from the best of times, and the worst of times. Yes… he was and never will be alone. Thank you, Nora. You really are a great friend. He smiled, a small smile but one that he knew Nora would understand. Though seemingly insignificant in its size, his smile held enough love to stop the chaos of wars, conflict and hatred itself. This was a smile that would only be used when thinking about the love of your life.

"Thank you, Nora." He thanked her again though actually being vocal about it. "You're absolutely right. I am never alone… because I have..." His eyes sparkle as he recollects his memories of her. All the times he slept with her, the way his head would gently lay on her. She was as warm as the summer grass he would lay on. Her presence was like the comfort of a mother's embrace. When he was younger, he remembers the way he held her close to him as he slept. He was so afraid that she would leave him if his hold on her was not strong enough. But now that he thought about it, he was really foolish for thinking that. "… I have Sasha."

Nora nods still smiling. "You can't give up Renny. She's waiting for you in our dorm." She was absolutely right. Ren had to stay strong for her. Lie Ren will remain strong and fight through this cruelty to return to Sasha. The one he calls confidant, love and most importantly… "She is your pillow after all."

"Sasha is more than just a pillow!" He didn't want to scare Nora with his quiet outburst. But as he said, Sasha is far more than just a pillow. Sasha has been with him since he was but a baby. It was Sasha who thwarted the darkness that terrified him when he was a child. It was Sasha who protected him from the frightening Boogeyman. His parents said the creature didn't really exist. Well they were right… Sasha made sure of that after all.

"Sorry Ren, I forgot that you love Sasha more than anything."

With a nod. "Yes, no one can possibly take Sasha's place in my heart."

Fin

AN: So I have no idea if the comedy I attempted to implement worked. I certainly hope it did. However, critique would be nice on the matter. Oh and by critique I don't mean bash my attempt all together. I would like some pointers on how I can improve my writing.

Also, I am sorry for taking so long with updates for this story. My passion for writing was gone for a while since I was dealing with some things. I cannot say for certain if my passion has returned, maybe I never really had it in the first place. But despite it all I will continue to work on this story. I just hope you can all be patient with me as I go through this uncertain life of mine.

On a different note, I plan to release another chapter of my story Devil Arm. When a chapter will be released is uncertain to me but it is coming.

Another piece of info you might like to know is that the next trailer for one of the Jaegers will not be Inori (VII). I did want to but she was already (though only shortly) in VI's trailer. However, if you guys really want it I think I can manage to take some time in making one for her. I certainly wouldn't mind it.

One last bit of information for you all. In regards to the OC submission, that is still up for those who want to insert their character in the story. I hate to say it but none of the ones currently given to me gave me much of an impression, save for two. A common problem is that you guys want to insert your character's life into Ruby's or the other canon characters. The only character that is canon that should be involved with is Jaune.

Another problem is the lack of a detailed background or personality. I want to know why I should give a damn about your OC. I need a reason why they would make the story improve. I want to know what impacted their life to make them who they are. I want to know the traumas they have endured. I want to know what they cherish. I want to know what kind of a person your OC is through more than just descriptions. I know what I am asking is a tall order, but those are my conditions. If you feel the need to insult me then I understand though maybe you should do that through a pm and not through the reviews.

Also, you all seem to want to make your OCs overpowered which I get. It's understandable for us as humans to be an ideal. Someone who is regarded as a prodigy and dare I say perfect. But perfection is something that can never be achieved. Though you may not believe me, I don't plan on making Jaune perfect. In the future you'll see our protagonist struggle with not only his future limitations in battle, but his weak social skills. While true he is a powerful individual in this story he is far from invincible.

So to cut this short, your OC should be strong, but they shouldn't be a god without any weakness. They should have a personality that is their own. They should have their own story that defines who they are. Your OC should be crafted with every bit of imagination you have.

Anyways, I'll choose an OC by the time I get to the end of Volume one in this story. However, depending on how difficult the selection is I might delay my decision until I am half way through Volume two.

Now with all that out of the way I wish all those participating in this OC contest the best of luck. Know that I respect everyone who sent their OCs to me and that I will give equal consideration to all OCs. As for those who are not participating I encourage that you do. You might enjoy this little project.

Until next time guys