The Bullhead landed without issue , As the bay doors slid open , Erdine was ushered out of the vehicle by team CFVY .
Yet as he stepped down from the ship , The grounds before him were bare , Standing alone , Holding a cane and a cup of coffee was a grey haired spectacled man with an inviting smile .
" Greetings young man , Welcome to beacon academy , My name is Ozpin , I am the headmaster of this institution" The spectacled man introduced himself as Erdine approached with a wide gait .
First impressions were everything , And as Ozpin looked to the supposedly infected young man , He couldn't help but look into those mismatched eyes that shon within the Spartan like helmet the teen wore.
" It is a pleasure to meet you sir " The teen placed his hand over his chest and bowed , The red mane of his helmet slinging around .
It was as he bowed that Glynda ushered team CFVY into the academy from behind to get an immediate check up through automata .
" Well met young man , Would you care to join me for a walk " Ozpin turned and motioned for the Gleaming silver tower in the distance " While you accompany me to my office "
Nodding , Erdine stood to his full height , Which now being infront of Ozpin , Made the man realise the teen was slightly taller than himself , At an impressive 6'8 if what he could guess.
As they turned , Ozpin was immediately on edge , As when they began to walk , He heard nothing from the teen , No footsteps , Not rustling of his armour , Just complete silence ... the mark of someone well versed in the darker arts .
Taking stock of the teens weaponry , He noted , Much to his curiosity , A lone katana was strapped to the teens waist , the blade attached with a sash .
' Let's see just what kind of person he is ... ' Ozpin thought as he put on a kind smile and turned to the teen as they entered the academy grounds .
Giving a quick tour of the academy , They spoke of meager things , Showing Erdine the mess hall , The auditorium, The training rooms and each of the classrooms .
Yet around him , He knew that the faculty was actively steering clear of them at his order , And not wanting to disturb the schedule , He eventually ushered the teen into the elevator that ascended to his office in the clocktower.
As the door opened with a chime , Ozpin noticed the slump in Erdine's shoulders as the teen stumbled forward .
" Something wrong young man " Ozpin asked as he stepped around his desk and sat down with practiced ease.
" I just don't necessarily like being watched " Erdine admitted , Surprising Ozpin at the same time as he nodded and slowly waved a hand at the chair infront of his desk.
Taking the seat , Erdine removed his helm and placed it on the desk , Running a hand through his hair in the same fluid motion.
' Those scars ... aren't from grim ' Ozpin frowned as he studied the small scars on the teens face .
" May I state ... before we begin headmaster... I'm not very fond of mincing words , Speak your mind , I've had enough of these round about tactics " Erdine mumbled , Loud enough for the headmaster to hear.
Sitting up abit straighter in his seat , The small smile on his face slowly slipped as he once more appraised the young man.
" Very well . I apologise for my behaviour, I had not intend to irk you , Rather make you more comfortable in my institution " Ozpin soothed as the teen sighed but nodded .
" What you've been brought here for , Is the worry one of my huntsman teams claims to be a form of virus that you used to kill a grimm , Said Grimm turning solid instead of evaporating . I would ask the nature of this ... scarlet rot ... the danger it poses and how you are able to use it " All friendliness disappeared from the headmasters tone as he pinned the teen with a calculating gaze.
" The scarlet rot huh ... even now bringing me trouble . Well ... it's a contagion ... has no cure and cannot be stopped unless it is burned " Erdine scratched at the side of his cheek as if pondering " It quickly dissipates while Airbourne , Can do so but slowly infects land ... and flourishes in water . Once infected with the rot ... you can almost never survive it , As it degrades the mind and drives one mad ,Making them a moving transmitter for the virus "
" And you've brought it here " Ozpin gripped the handle of his cane , Fully prepared to set off the fire crystals that currently sat embedded in the floor beneath his feet " Are you contagious"
He knew ... based on his intuition and study of human body language and psychology, That the teen was being honest.
" I am not. currently ... sat within my abdomen , Is a previously unknown organ . My lands , While bathed in the rot , Never gave in . We adapted ... By the time we scorched our lands in our suicidal pact ... The newest generation adapted " Erdine explained as he lifted the hem of his armour and pointed to a portion of his stomach " I am apart of the last generation born in our lands ... the others vowed to never have children , for said children would never have a chance to survive "
" How is this organ relevant to this situation " Ozpin asked as he looked deep into the boys eyes.
" This new organ has a special purpose and function . The scarlet rot that bloomed throughout my body was absorbed into the organ ... And it isolates the rot , Making it a non threat unless it is exposed to something other than myself " Erdine explained , Shocking Ozpin at the prospect of such a development .
" You overcame it ... You're immune " Ozpin stated as a matter of fact .
" Immune is a stretch ... more like my body can suppress it faster than it can over come my immune system . I am not immune , But it is too weak to over come my body" Erdine explained as he lowered the sheets of his armour .
" I have another question , You used this rot in battle , That leads me to believe you are able to harness the rot from this organ , would you have done so in a populated area " Ozpin asked and watched as the teen rapidly shook his head .
" I'd sooner be consumed by the flame than endanger innocents with such a damning fate " Erdine snapped as he scowled at the thought.
' He's telling the truth ' Hearing the answer ... Ozpin sat back , The hard expression on his face softening slightly.
' I have to stop Salem from ever getting a chance of even gaining a sample of this rot ... If she got her hands on it ... ' Ozpin shivered , Grimm fused with the rot. ... the world would end before he knew it ' But if he can utilise it against the grim. ... and keep it controlled '
Clearing his throat , Ozpin sat up a little straighter in his seat and clasped his hands together on top of his desk.
" I have come up with an idea I'd like you to hear out my young friend " Ozpin smiled as Erdine raised an eyebrow .
" Let's hear it " Erdine replied with a small mumble .
" This land of yours , I've never heard of it , So I doubt you have a digital identity . I'd have your papers made and registered into the system . In turn , I'd like you to study at my institution, You will be provided for , Have a stipend of lein monthly , Lodging and food . But ... I must ask In no uncertain words , That the scarlet rot is to never be used in any situation or environment " Ozpin offered as Erdine squinted and remained silent , The headmaster completely unaware of the conversation going on within the young teens head .
" I accept this accord " Erdine leant forward and clasped ozpin's hand in his own , The two shaking on the deal .
" Excellent , While I write up your papers . Your semblance needs to be registered , Would you be able to fill me in on what that is "
' What in the ever loving fuck is a semblance ' Erdine screamed internally as a nudging prickling sensation opened up in the back of his head .
' From what I've been able to Devine my young godkin ... A semblance is a manifestation of one's soul , Alongside their aura , It gives one unique power , Like that velvet girl being able to make any weapon she has seen out of light ' The golden sunshine of the greater will warmed him internally as it spoke.
' Have you been here before ' Erdine asked the greater will as he slowly sat down in the real world and looked as if to be pondering to the headmaster .
' I have not ... Rather I have been able to exert myself a certain distance from the Elden ring , Namely those small devices currently located on the headmasters person , The team from earlier had one as well . I have seen the likes of them before , Mortals use them to communicate and store information, It was a simple process of accessing the information stored within . I found almost no mention of those I seek though ... Keep your eyes peeled and trust no-one. I have been able to confirm this is indeed the land they preside over ... but have been unable to find their whereabouts ' The Greater Will explained as Erdine pondered what was said ' I'd register your semblance as some form of indepth alteration . Such would explain the sudden development of an organ that only you posses . Pulling armour from nothing , Or producing flame from your palm '
" I call my semblance govern " Erdine began as Ozpin rapidly pulled out his scroll and began to list the name .
" And what does this govern do " Ozpin asked as he stared down at the scroll in his hand , Ready to fill out the description of the teens semblance .
" It allows me to alter the properties of anything I can see and feel for as long as I need it to . I personally believe it was responsible for my ... ability to neutralise the rot " Ozpin stopped typing as he heard the description and cast a glance up at the young teen .
" I'd very much like to know another example of this semblance " Ozpin asked as Erdine shrugged and reached into his pouch , Pulling out a small piece of bark that was held between his fingers .
Ozpin watched Amazed as the bark vanished and was immediately followed by a silver katana that appeared held within his grasp .
" This blade is called Moonveil , This is its true form , Not a piece of bark . I can also " Erdine stood up , Ozpin watching with a glint in his eye as the Moonveil katana turned into a massive yellow spear of lightning which crackled and burned the air as Erdine held it harmlessly .
A final show , Saw Ozpin watch as the lightning spear vanished , And in Erdine's hand appeared a small looking coin that was situated in his palm , Before that too vanished as whatever it was sunk into his skin .
' The possibilities ' Ozpin thought as he went back to labelling down the semblance , opting to put an administrative password into the system to simply access any information ' He's too valuable to let wander the world on his own '
Slight of hand was an amazing thing , The ability to deceive was perhaps one of man's greatest accomplishments.
As he dropped the Moonveil back into his inventory and dispelled the lightning spear , He retook his seat as Ozpin , apparently very happy with himself furiously typed away at the device in his hand .
Sitting in silence for a few moments , Erdine watched as Ozpin finished his tapping before the man shut off the device and put it to the side.
" It's with my express pleasure that I welcome you to beacon academy , You may stay on grounds in a room professor port will guide you to until the other first years arrive . At that time you will partake in the entrance exam , But worry not , Your attendance is already guaranteed , It is to simply decide which team you shall be on " Ozpin stood from his desk and clapped his hand as the elevator chimed , A blonde woman walking in with another old man , More on the plump side .
" Young man , May I introduce you to a few of my fellow faculty members , Professor Glynda Goodwich , She will be your combat instructor "
The blonde gave a kind nod but kept her gaze firmly planted on Ozpin , Whom subtly shook his head behind Erdine as he introduced port.
" And this is professor port , He will be your studies professor . Now professor port will guide you through the academy towards your new dorm " Ozpin explained as Erdine put his helmet back on and walked up to port , Standing over the man whom extended his hand to Erdine .
" I fine young man you are , I am glad I will have the chance to forge you into a huntsman of legends " Port eagerly spoke as Erdine accepted the hand .
" I look forward to your teachings , I hope I don't disappoint " Erdine shook the hand as port shook his head , chuckled and clapped Erdine on the back .
" Nay my friend , Under my watchful eye ,You have nothing to worry about " Ports voice was heard as the elevator door closed , an amused hum resonating from the boy he was Guiding .
Yet as the elevator left , Ozpin slowly sunk into his chair , Pointedly ignoring the hard squint coming from Glynda .
" I take it that the reason he is currently free to roam the academy is because he is .. indeed , not contagious" Grilling Ozpin as she approached the desk , Oz waved his hand absentmindedly as he sighed .
" He is not contagious... " Ozpin relented as glynda let out a relived sigh at the omission .
" Might I ask why you have enlisted this boy as a student " Glynda asked as Oz sighed and reached for his scroll .
" He is far too valuable , Both with the rot and his semblance to leave to chance " Ozpin unlocked the scroll and let Glynda view the student profile .
" This is ... " Glynda's brow furrowed as she read the description of his semblance .
" Potentially a very powerful semblance if used to its fullest capability " Ozpin reasoned , Opening up the camera feed as he watched port leave the elevator with his newest interest , No doubt taking him towards his new quarters .
It had been an interesting few days since he had been welcomed into beacon .
The staff were friendly and helpful for the main part . But he found himself spending a great deal of time either within his room , Using this device named a scroll with the greater will's guidance on how to use it . Or simply wandering the grounds .
An interesting pastime he had developed , Since he had a rather irritating issue with sleeping , Or the lack there of . Not that he couldn't sleep , It was rather pleasant , It was just that it never bothered him if he didn't sleep at all.
So , One night , Three days ago ,While wandering the grounds , He had cast a glance to the moon , And froze .
' Ranni would absolutely loathe this sight ' Erdine thought as he wore his black knife armour set with the hood down , Standing atop the library in the night , To stare at the shattered moon above .
' Think you could use gravity magic to drag them down ' The enthusiastic voice of the frenzied flame was heard in his ears as he looked at each of the fragments .
' I'm not pulling down the moon , As interesting as it would be ' Erdine answered before turning away from the moon and dropping down the side of the libraries roof , Landing with a soft thud .
' Come on just one ' The flame beckoned as if it were making a great deal .
' ONLY , If I have no other choice ... when and if I decide to do so ' Erdine retorted as he entered the academy corridors to make he way back to his room .
Passing a hallway , He missed Ozpin and Glynda sprint by not twenty seconds later in a bid to get the Bullhead dock , Where Qrow was arriving with a critically Injured Amber .
Closing the door to his dorm , He was gifted the sight of his room .
A lone bed at its centre with large fur blankets . Against the far wall was an interesting sight , Medical equipment littered the far wall alongside a sterile desk and table , At ozpin's insistence that he perform routine check ups to make sure the rot wasn't spreading.
He wasn't stupid enough to keep a sample of the rot in one of the vacuum tubes on the desk , Knowing that no room was truly secure , So inside his body is where it would forever reside.
A laptop was sat atop the desk alongside his scroll which he would just leave on its surface , Because what would he use it for really , Basically it existed for the greater will to use when he was nearby the device incase it wanted to research any possible sightings of the pesky gods that hid from it.
Other than that , Next to the left of the doorway that served as the entrance , Sat a setup of couches surrounding a small table.
On the right was a kitchen where he could cook whatever he wished In private ... like his prawns. Fuck those prawns they deserved all they got .
With a hum , He walked towards the leftward wall which had a connecting doorway that connected to his bathroom and shower .
Entering the bathroom , Erdine made sure the door was locked before removing his black knife armour , Studying himself in the mirror as he stood almost naked apart from his pants and the bandages that were wrapped around his chest to hide the Elden ring .
With a sigh , He unwound the bandages slowly as he looked over every scar , From the massive gash that bisected his lower right waist to the top left of his chest , Courtesy of radahn the big fuck and his stupidly big blades .
Dropping the bandages to the ground , He moved to the shower , Struggling to remember how to activate said mechanical menace .
After a while he got the water running at a satisfying temperature , Where he proceeded to step under the flowing water and scrubbed himself with the provided soap .
Staring down at the bottles in his hand , He raised an eyebrow at them ' What is a shampoo and conditioner '
Apparently it was for his hair , And so he used it , Squirting a dab into his palm which he proceeded to scrub into his scalp .
It was when he rinsed his hair that his predicament presented himself ,In the aspect of pain as the shampoo entered his eyes.
He bellowed out loud as he shattered the glass door as he swept around in surprise at the sudden pain .
He Ran to the faucet and proceeded to outright just pour water on his eyes until the pain subsides , Where he proceeded to pick up the loathed bottle and reread it .
' Why the fuck is the instructions , Be ware of eyes , Not featured in bold lettering '
Blinking the his now red irritated eyes ,He made his way to the emergency supply case that sat on his desk , Where he proceeded to pull out some stark white bandages from a roll , Applying them gently and pinning it in place with the provided pin before choosing to rest .
He slid under the covers of his bed z The comfort of the fur blanket he had pulled out of his inventory a blessing as he quickly felt himself be taken in by the frenzied flame in his sleep .
Knocking on the door to Erdine's room , Port held a small smile as a soft but deep voice beckoned him in .
Yes he knew the boy was afflicted , And personally felt sad for the teen who hadn't asked for such a thing , So he wouldn't judge the boy for things out of his control , Nor would the rest of the academy instructors .
Opening the door , He noted the rooms light was lowered to a soft flow of light above , Where he saw the teen currently seated at the lone desk in the corner , Pencil in hand as he scribbled onto a book provided to him at his leisure .
" I've brought the materials I am to teach you until the students arrive in two days " Port explained as he held a book under his arm , But his curiosity prevailed as he walked over and looked down onto the paper the boy was drawing on.
' Is that a jar with arms fighting beside a wolf Faunus against a giant on a tiny horse ' Port squinted at the detail on the armour of the giant and couldn't help but feel it looked quite similar to something else he had seen .
" Quite the artwork you've created right there ... is it a memory or of your own creation" Port asked as he looked over the pot man , Who held his arms to the side and appeared to be yelling .
" A memory ... " Erdine spoke sadly as he placed the pencil down onto the surface of the table .
" Might I ask who they are " Port asked , Genius curiosity taking him , He knew he had the whole day to teach the teen the history of remnant , Yet he couldn't help wanting to know more of the individuals presented.
" The wolf ... Faunus his name was Blaise , He was loyal to a fault and caught with a ferocity that came with his breed , He was a great man " Erdine motioned to the wolf Faunus welding a massive greatsword over his shoulder .
" And the jar " Try as he might , He couldn't see how a man wearing a jar would run into battle .
" Alexander ... A side affect of his semblance would turn him into ... that ... But he never hated it , Sure it irked him , But his warrior spirit was greater than the weakness his semblance forced on him ... More than a few times he broke , But his sheer tenacity kept him going ... even when ... " Erdine spoke sadly as he produced a piece of porcelain that caused a great deal of sadness to well up within port as the teen affectionately ran a finger across its surface .
Silence passed for a few moments before he the porcelain vanished and Erdine looked back at the drawing .
" And what of that large man " prot pointed to the last person .
" That ... was a man that went by the title of star scourge radahn His semblance made him a monster ... with almost unfathomable control over gravity " Erdine looked at the drawing " He was a person I couldn't help but respect , And it was with a heavy heart he had to be out down "
At ports curious look Erdine decided to explain further .
" He was a general . He lead the army of my home to defend our people . He was also directly related to one of our monarchs , he was infact the cousin of Malenia " Erdine explained , And port certainly remembered the name , The source of the affliction that plagued the teen even now .
" I take it something happened " Port began as he slowly sat down onto Erdine's bed and waited to hear more .
" Malenia ... She nearly lost to him In battle , And in a fit of retaliation, She used the rot on him , It drove him mad " Erdine began as he tapped at the piece of paper.
" He lost who he was ... but never forgot his horse , The weak steed followed its master loyally even in his madness . As he feasted on the corpses of his own men , The steed stayed. Nor did Radahn forget his purpose , You see , Along time ago a shard or meteor was going to collide with our home , Nobody could have stopped it . And in sheer desperation, he took to his semblance and held the chunk in the sky , He did it his entire infact . He did so even in his madness , He never let it fell , And it didn't until he fell " Port felt the admiration couldn't help but feel towards the fallen warrior .
" Do you know how he died " Port asked , Wanting to know that fate of the noble man so he could commit it to heart .
" I was there actually , A great event commenced , Organised by those loyal to him. As an honour to the man , He was to be slain in battle as he had wished . It took a great deal of time , And he fought hard , But eventually he fell to everyone's combined might . He took a great deal of people down with him. He nearly killed Alexander , But a warrior ... a man dubbed the tarnished felled the giant of a man , Putting him down in his misery . And as he died , The shard fell to the land and shook our island nation on the process , It killed alot of people " Erdine spoke as he gently held the case of the book and brought it to a close .
Port looked downcast as Erdine turned one of those coins he carried on him into his golden helmet with the red mane .
" You'd be surprised to know , That this helmet wand the armour I wear was infact radahn's ... just resized with my semblance to fit me "
" Truly ... surely you jest " Port wiggled his moustache as Erdine shook his head and stood from the desk , And held the helmet out , And to ports astonishment , It proceeded to grow nearly four to five times in size until it resembled the drawing .
Port stared open mouthed at the giant helmet watching as it soon shrunk down until it was able to fit on Erdine's head without issue before it was turned back into a coin.
' Such troubled lands for one to grow up in , An honourable man , Duty bound until death. Atleast we have a chance to help this lone surviving child ' Port hummed as he cleared his throat , Not liking the sad look or Erdine's face , And so he brought out the history book he was to go over with Erdine for the day .
" Now young man , Let's get you caught up to pace shall we " Port diverted the conversation to the book in hand.
" Yes .. let's "
Springing from the elevator , An elated Port barreled into his office with a massive grin on his face , Looking ready to scream Eureka as he threw the book of remnant history to the side and openly whooped in joy .
" HE'S AMAZING OZ , SIMPLY AMAZING " The very excited port B-lined to his desk as he noticed glynda's presence and happily sat himself down.
" I take it he did something remarkable " Oz asked , Very much wanting to distract himself from the terribly horrible thing that had occured the nights beforehand.
" He memorised and recited word for word the entire history of remnant , Not only that , But he learnt what he was able to recite , He understood it intimately and by the end of the first hour , Began to openly ask about some very minute things a great many scholars might have missed in their studies " Port explained as he laughed to himself about a little debate they had gotten into , A debate , He would noted , was on a level of a very learned and insightful mind on par with his own.
" I want him in my classes " Port all but declared happily as he twiddled with his moustache.
" Rest assured , He was already registered for the first your courses taken with you " Ozpin spoke as he watched port practically deflate with relief.
" What I want to ask actually port ... how well do you think he will do on a team " Ozpin asked as Port froze almost entirely .
" Hard to say , He's a loner , It's clear as day he's witnessed the people he cares about having died ... infact I know he carries mementos of those very people with him. But I believe ... A team would be good for him, He carries the weight of the world on his shoulders ... and a great guilt behind those eyes of his. I think he feels guilt about the fact he lives , While others do not " Port informed as Glynda listened to what was said , Her jaw tightening slightly as she understood what was being said .
" I see ... Well then , It's fortunate that the first years will be arriving tomorrow "
He watched the metal contraption that carried the students arrive on the grounds , Wearing an unaltered set of banished knight armour .
The airship was absolutely massive as it approached surrounded by a small horde of bullheads .
He watched with some amusement, As when the absolutely disgusting looking vessel landed against the cliffside over beacon , A young man with blonde hair ran out to a rubbish can and proceeded to vomit.
Following the vomiting boy from the ship , A horde of people departed , And Erdine could honestly say he had never seen so many people in one place in his entire life ... It was abit overwhelming actually .
' I reckon we could kill them all with ease ' Erdine nearly blanched at the intrusive thought that hadn't been his own , Sighing as he sagged and rubbed his brow .
' Yes ... we could ... but what would the point be ' Erdine retorted to the embodiment of chaos .
' Fun ... !!?? was there supposed to be another reason. ' This time Erdine did sigh at the response , As students began to walk by him , Not that he noticed at all.
Beginning to walk by from the school grounds and into the grassy fields around the school , Erdine was enraptured by his thoughts as he accidentally walked into someone's shoulder , Sending them to the ground in a huff as he realised what he had done a second later .
" Oh my , I am so terribly sorry about that, I don't appear to have been looking where I was going " With a blush on his face he bent down to the person he had accidentally barged over , Grabbing them by the hand as he dragged them to their feet ... And he froze .
" Malenia ... " He uttered , Looking at the redhead who held her head before shaking the cobwebs loose .
He simply stared as he noticed , Too late , That she indeed wasn't Malenia , And she was staring at him with a small frown .
" I am so sorry about that ... I truly didn't mean to knock you over miss ... " He bowed deeply .
Pyrrha looked on confused , As the very admittedly large no doubt teen bowed at the waist in apology .
Yet it wasn't that that had gotten to her head , It was the little fact that he had called her by another name ... apparently by mistake . Did he not know who she was .
" I'm sorry I don't know who this Malenia you speak of is " She watched intently as he tensed slightly before raising his head to meet her gaze , Mismated eyes meeting her vibrant green orbs .
" I again apologise ... I had never seen anyone with red hair as vibrant as hers , Only yours matches hers so I may have jumped the uhh ... gun " He offered her a hand " As recompense ... may I ask you name fair maiden "
" Pyrrha ... Pyrrha Nicos " She watched with baited breath as he committed the name to memory and smiled kindly at her.
" Pyrrha Nicos ... a beautiful name for a beautiful maiden. I once again apologise for my clumsiness , is there something I may assist with to reconcile thy blunder " Erdine asked as he stood up , forcing her to look up to keep eye contact with him .
" You don't know me ... " Pyrrha blurred by accident , But she was both fearful and hopeful at once .
" I'm deeply sorry . But apart the case of mistaken identity... I do not . I'm sorry if I offend ... But I truly cannot recall a Pyrrha Nicos " She sighed in relief and her face lit up in happiness , The sheer confusion on his face driving the point and the truthfulness of his words .
" Truly it is no offence " Pyrrha beaned up at him as he scratched his chin .
" If you're sure " Erdine relented as Pyrrha nodded her head .
" I am ... oh I never caught your name " Pyrrha asked , Hopefully to learn it , But was surprised as he gently cupped her hand and planted a kiss on her knuckle .
" Erdine , At your service ma'am" He gently dropped her hand to her side before standing up , Missing the beat red on the woman's face as she looked away.
" Ah are you with the first years " Pyrrha asked as she coughed into her fist before turning back to face him.
" Oh yes , I was watching as everyone landed ,I'm supposed to be joining everyone at the ... auditorium... for the initiation tomorrow " Erdine informed Pyrrha who perked up.
" You wouldn't happen to know where the auditorium is would you " Pyrrha asked , Having no idea herself on just where the fuck it was .
" Oh it's ahh ... " Looking around , He noticed they were in a wing , Heading in the wrong direction " Back that way "
" Could you ahh ... please guide me " She clasped her hands together in an almost prayer like gesture .
" Of course I would , Follow me my fair maiden " He turned and began to guide the young Nicos back through the academy to where they were supposed to be going , Missing the beat red face she made at his words.
They made it with minutes to spare , And just as Erdine said , He guided her into the auditorium where the rest of the students were gathered.
Pyrrha thanked her lucky stars that Erdine had been right as they walked Into the crowd towards the front of the student body , Coming to a stop just Infront of the stage where Glynda and Ozpin were preparing to make their speech.
As the chatter around them died , Ozpin tapped the microphone infront of him with a flick of his finger .
" I'll ... " The headmaster leaned in as he adjusted his glasses " Keep this brief "
" You've travelled here today in search of knowledge " Ozpin began , Pyrrha noting the shuffling of several individuals behind them " To home your craft and acquire new skills , And when you're finished . You plan to dedicate your life to the protection of the people "
" But when I look amongst you ... all I see is wasted energy " Next to her , Pyrrha could actually hear Erdine snort , But he actually chuckled when she sent a raised eyebrow in his direction .
" In need of purpose ... direction. you assume knowledge will free you of this . But your time at this school will prove that knowledge can only carry you so far "
It was when he finished that sentence that Pyrrha got a good look at the head master's eyes , The man seemed sad , And much to her curiosity, Staring directly past her shoulder and at Ervine .
" It is up to you ... to take the first step " Ozpin finished as he stepped back from the microphone , Wishing to simply step forward and whisk the boy he was looking at down under the school in a hope he'd be able to help amber with his semblance .
' But I can't be too hasty ... We don't know if he'd be able to do anything. And we still don't know enough about him to be able to bring him in ' Ozpin held himself back as he stepped back from the microphone and made a slow exit , Mind plagued by regrets and what ifs , But he'd do his damnedest to help the innocent girl that was hurt , He swore on it.
" You will sleep in the ballroom tonight , Tomorrow the initiation begins . Be ready , You're dismissed " Professor Goodwich finished , Her word final as she stepped back and made her exit .
True enough , Much to pyrrha's shock , The sun was beginning to set outside .
' We haven't been here that long ... have we ' She tilted her head , It really didn't seem like they had been.
Moving to open her mouth to speak to Erdine , She stopped as she noticed he had already left her side and was moving to the adjacent doors.
Quickly she walked after him , Near desperate as he opened to doors , And stopping as she put a hand on the door handle .
" Oh .. hey Pyrrha , Do you need something " Erdine asked as he gave her a small smile .
"Just wandering where you were off too is all " pyrrha asked innocently as he opened his mouth in the o gesture .
" Just getting my things , Everyone's supposed to be sleeping in here after all " Erdine answered as she bobbed her head in understanding .
" Oh ... Well I'll see you when you get back then " Pyrrha stated as Erdine nodded slightly .
." You sure will , I shouldn't be more than a few minutes " He gave her a wave as he disappeared through the door , Leaving her to chew on her lip as she looked to where she had put her things down " Might as well get set up "
' You sleep in the nude ... I don't think they'll be very accepting of you walking in without anything on ' Chaos entered his head to offer its two cents as he made his way across campus .
' I am very well aware of that ' Erdine retorted as he cut a shortcut through the grassy areas towards the dorms.
True to his word ,He made It to his dorm in record time , Using his key to unlock the door , Step in and close it behind him .
Making his way to his bedframe , The lord of chaos gently pried his fur rug from the bed , Slinging it over his shoulder as he sent his armour to his inventory , Being left with naught but a pair of black knee length pants .
Sending a quick glance to the mirror , He was relieved to find that the bandages he wore covered the vast majority of his abdomen and his chest , While they left little to the imagination of his psyche , He was glad that A. the Elden rune was covered and B. Nobody would be asking about the harrowing scars that littered his being.
' Let's get this over with '
" Its like a big slumber party " Yang Xio Long leapt down beside her sister , Landing on her extended elbow as she sent ruby a massive smile .
" I don't think dad would approve of all the boys though " Ruby replied as she wrote her letter as yang proceeded to look around.
" Oh I know I do " She watched as the boys rough housed eachother , Eyes tracking one who was currently flexing on to all the girls who would look his way .
Yet as juane walked by , Wearing a baby blue onesie , She shuddered , especially as the boy looked in her direction and winked .
She shuddered and looked anywhere else . Sure the vast majority of boys and girls had been segregated naturally . Some of both genders were actually leaning on the cusp or outright surrounded by those of the opposite gender ... Some seemed eager to chat , Others not so .
Standing on the other side of the ball room doors , Erdine sighed and let his head rest against its cold surface .
' Atleast you're not naked ' Chaos teased him as it usually did .
' I might as fucking well be ' Erdine hissed internally as he prepared himself , Pushing his hand against the door and forcing it open .
What he heard on the other side amused him , A crystal white haired girl was scolding a young looking teen girl with black hair and a red eye cover on her hair .
They stood near a blonde haired girl with considerable bust whilst a black haired girl wearing a long robe sat with a candle and book infront of them .
" Oh now you're on my side " The white haired one snapped as Erdine looked at the people surrounding the group . Many looked irritated and annoyed that they wouldn't be quiet .
So he stood closer , Bringing a fist to his mouth as he made a coughing noise to get their attention.
" Excuse me young ladies. Your argument appears to be disrupting the people around you whom are trying to rest , Could you please quieten down for their sakes , They have a big day tomorrow , I'm sure they don't want their performances jeopardized due to your selfishness " His words seemed to fluster the group , As the black haired girl with flower pants seemed sheepish and looked to the ground .
The yellow haired one seemed to be between shocked and outraged at his words whilst the white haired one seemed to know exactly what to say next .
" Who do you think you are " The white haired girl stomped her feet , Officially ending the nice tone which he would have used should she have been receptive to obliging his request for the sake of those around them .
" Someone trying to get you to shut the fuck up , Now be quiet , We'll argue later " Erdine turned his back and stalked to the farthest side of the room away from the group .
And as he walked , He caught a few thankful glances from someone the students .
Yet he heard a small Snickers come from the blonde behind him , and an indignant huff from the white haired one . Yet it seemed his words did the trick as they all seperated and moved to their own places to sleep.
Making his way to one of the large windows that looked outside , None in particular , He sat his rug down on the floor , Petting it gently as he reached for the handle on the window and cracked it open slightly to allow a small breeze of air .
" Find a nice spot at all" Erdine froze as he rounded on the redhead whom had snuck up on him , Ready to outright deck whoever had spooked him , Yet he held his hand apon seeing who it was .
" Oh it's you pyrrha , You startled me . And honestly , There isn't too many places around here to comfortably rest , So I thought this would do for me , Just for the night " Erdine slowly settled down onto the rug as he pulled one side over his legs , Folding himself up in its warm but soft embrace.
" It is a rather alluring spot " Pyrrha agreed as she looked up at the fractured moon in the sky , Choosing to sling her sleeping bag on the ground nearby , On the other side of the window frame as Erdine leant his head against its cold surface , The soft airflow jostling his hair in the process .
As she shimmied herself into her sleeping bag , Erdine raised an amused eyebrow at the girl as she picked her head back out the top , Looking much like a cocooned caterpillar .
' She really does look like Malenia ... or Millicent ' Erdine mused as his eyes tracked back to the moon above , Letting silence prevail as he simply sat there .
She knew he hadn't slept , Wanna know how . Because three hours after everyone had gone to sleep , He got up , Opened the window all the way and proceeded to climb onto the ledge outside and simply stare at the stars for the rest of the night .
How she knew that of course , Was that the now stronger wind current had slowly pulled her from her sleep .
And as she sat up , Rubbing her eyes in confusion , She noticed his absence .
Sitting up rapidly , She slammed her head into the window cill , Causing her to wince as she rubbed the sore spot .
Looking upwards , The noticed it being all the way open , And to her curiosity she peeked outside and found her query .
It was that that moment she heard the small strums of an instrument coming from whatever was in his hands .
As she watched him , He didn't notice her as he simply stared at the skies inquisitively , Slowly strumming away at his guitar .
She didn't know when she fell asleep , Listening to the soft tune she played , But she was awoken by a strong shake to the shoulder , As she suddenly sat up , Wiping drool away from her chin and shoulder .
Erdine crouched infront of her with a rather amused expression .
" You've got an hour before initiation " He stood up , Now wearing some black looking outfit with black cloth running from the chest piece for cover the armoured leggings he wore .
" I'd get something to eat if I were you ... want a prawn " Infront of her eyes now dangled said piece of confectionery, And appeared to be very recently cooked of the small steam rising from it was anything to go by .
" Sure ... " She accepted the offered food and tentatively ate it , Genuinely surprised at how delicious the prawn was , Considering she had tried it before and not liked it , This was much different from what she had had last time .
" Now I have to go check up on a few things before initiation , Shower and all that you know . I'll see you when I'm done , Try not to get lost this time neh " Erdine rose to his feet and brushed off of his clothing .
She was left shocked and confused at the sudden departure , But accepted his words none the less as she bounced to her feet and proceeded to pack her things , Wanting to shower much the same as he did and equip her armour .
" You know you didn't have to sleep in the ball room right " Port informed him as he left said room , Making Erdine pucker his lips .
" You're kidding " Erdine mumbled as he held his rub on his shoulder once more .
" Far from it , You have an assigned dorm , I had assumed you would have used it , But it's nice to see you making friends regardless " Port chortled as Erdine hung his head in exasperation.
" I had thought that when Professor Goodwich said we would be sleeping in the ball room ... I was included in that ratio , Oh well " Erdine stood back up , Adjusted his rug and prepared to leave .
" Say , Ahh , Professor port ... How do you stop shampoo from getting in your eyes " Erdine turned to the man with his question as the professor stopped and looked gobsmacked , All before a large smile bloomed on the man's face as he laughed to himself .
" That is for you to discover my young friend " Port replied as Erdine sighed , Bidding the professor fairwell before making a quick pace for his dorm .
" So pyrrha, Have you given any thought on who's team you'd like to be on " Weiss schnee asked as she came up beside the redheaded spartan whom had just equipped her gauntlets " I'm sure everyone must be eager to units with such a strong well-known individual such as yourself "
Putting a hand to her knee , pyrrha had to physically restrain herself from sighing as the girl beside her spoke .
' They're all the same ' Pyrrha thought as she turned to face the heiress .
" I'm not quite sure " Pyrrha began , Though honestly it was a lie " I was planning on letting the chips fall where they may "
" Well I was thinking maybe we can be on a team together " Weiss announced as she shrugged her shoulders .
" That sounds rad " Pyrrha gave a half hearted smile as she , a chuckle sounding behind her that she didn't have a chance to acknowledge , Weiss's face lighting up as she turned away for some reason.
' She ... does know I can hear her right ' Pyrrha thought as Weiss went on a little tangent about how good they'd be together on a team blah blah blah .
" You know what else is great ... me ... Jaune , Nice to meet you " As the boy leant against a locker infront of Weiss , Pyrrha heard a low laugh from directly behind her .
As she turned to see who was behind her ,She nearly screamed , As a skull masked individual stood behind her , Wearing armour that looked like it was made with bones and blood.
" Hey pyr , Sorry for scaring you " Reaching up and taking off his helmet , Pyrrha blew a raspberry as she looked into the amused mismatched eyes of the looming teen.
" What are you doing " Pyrrha all but demanded as his eyes danced from her to her behind and gave a small nod .
" Watching a ah ... Trainwreck " He stared with a small smile as she too turned to face jaune who was now flexing at Weiss .
" I couldn't help but here you fondness of me " Jaune rolled his wrist and looked at his nails .
" Oh you've got to be kidding me " Weiss sighed in exasperation.
" Don't worry , Nothing to be ashamed of " He crossed his hands infront of himself and puffed his chest out " So , I've been hearing rumours about teams . I was thinking you and me would make a good one ... what do ya say "
" Actually , I think the teams are comprised of four students each , So... " Pyrrha began as jaune noticed her presence and scooted over.
" You don't say , Well hot stuff , Play your cards right and you just may end up on the winning team " Jaune flexed as he noticed the looming one behind and looked over pyrrha's shoulder at Erdine , Whom had a rather amused grin on his face " Him too ... We'd be unstoppable, I just know he's strong "
Coming between them , Weiss shimmied herself between them and physically pushed jaune away from pyrrha .
" Jaune is it ... do you have any idea who you're talking to " Weiss motioned at pyrrha , Not noticing Erdine in the slightest .
" Not in the slightest snow angel " Jaune flirted.
" This is pyrrha " Weiss motioned as pyrrha waved and smiled " Pyrrha graduated top of her class at sanctum "
Pyrrha grew embarrassed knowing Erdine would be heading about her now , Slumping slightly as she resigned herself to her fate .
" Never heard of it " Jaune uttered .
" Won the mistral tournament four years in a row " Weiss continued .
" The fuck is a mistral " Erdine muttered behind her which caused pyrrha to snicker at his question .
" A new record " Weiss ended as jaune looked completely confused.
" SHES ON THE FRONT OF EVERY MARSHMALLOW PETES FLAKES BOX " Weiss flailed her arms as Jaune finally caught on.
" That YOU ... they're reserved for star athletes and cartoon characters " Jaune shook slightly as he pointed at her .
" Yea ... it was pretty cool. sadly the cereal wasn't that good for you " Pyrrha relented as she looked somewhat sad in Erdine's eyes .
' She doesn't like the attention ' He correctly surmised as Weiss stood with her arms crossed .
" So after hearing all that , Do you really think you're in a position to ask her to be on your team " Weiss asked as jaune deflated and began to look sad .
" I guess not ... sorry " He looked down at the ground , And Erdine stood forward .
" Actually ... I'm sure jaune would make a really good leader " Pyrrha stood up for the boy as his eyes regained their light and he began to preen .
" Really you think so , Oh stop it " Jaine smiled .
" No seriously stop it , We shouldn't be encouraging this kind of behaviour "
But with her words , Jaune was now on a roll as he continued on to Weiss happily.
" Pyrrha help " Weiss whispered , And before she knew it , A spear had flung from the corner to send jaune skidding across the room and out the door.
at that moment , The intercom spoke up ushering everyone to move towards the cliffs for initiation.
" I'm sorry , It was nice meeting you " Pyrrha grabbed her spear as jaune looked dazed .
" Likewise " He lay there as pyrrha turned back to face Erdine who was standing there thinking .
" Oh ... I'll be there in a moment " He waved her off , With a shrug she continued on towards the cliffside .
" Need a hand there young man. " Erdine leant down to pick up jaune who accepted his helping hand .
" I don't understand , My dad said all women look for is confidence " Jaune groaned as he looked depressed .
Clapping the young lad on the back , He gently guided juane towards the door .
" There is a difference between confidence and cockiness. But something I have seen , You have to find yourself first , Don't put on a false front ..." He held the boy around the shoulders as they continued to walk forward .
" You look like you've had a few ... girlfriends I mean ... how do you do it " Juane asked as he looked up to the scarred visage of the larger boy .
" There isn't much to it . Be confident but not cocky . Strong but not overbearing . When they tell you to go away , Put some distance between you but always be there when they need you . Be someone reliable who they can count on even when they don't know they have to " Erdine offered his advice " Also having a good look also helps , But you've got that one in the bag already "
" Is that all there is too it " Jaune wandered as he stared down at his hands , Clenching them together as he accepted this kind boys words .
" That's all there is to it , Now what do you say friend ,Let's get to those cliffs " He smiled as he looked towards the distance .
" Yea " Jaune smiled as he began a hearty walk towards his destiny z His new friend at his side .
" The first person you make eye contact with will be your partner for the next four years " Ozpin informed the ground as Erdine stood next to jaune at the end of the launch pads .
Ruby on his other side looked she just about had an aneurysm at what she had just heard .
" Your target is at the other end of the forest . Do not hesitate to destroy everything in your path , Or you will die " Ozpin spoke , Whilst Erdine actually heard Juane's gulp .
" You will be monitored and graded throughout the duration of the initiation, But our instructors will not intervene " Ozpin and Glynda shared a look " You will find an abandoned temple at the end of the path containing several relics "
" Each pair must choose one and return to the top of the cliff . You will guard that item , As well as your standing , And be graded appropriately. Are there any questions" Ozpin asked at the end of his speech , His brow twitching as Jaune's hand rose.
" Yea umm sir "
" Good , Now take your positions " Ozpin ignored jaune as the others got ready , Their weapons in hand or crouched down to leap.
Erdine simply stayed the same .
" Umm sir , I've got a. um question " Jaune kept his and raised as he spoke .
The function of the pad Erdine was on was revealed as Weiss was catapulted to the sky .
' Huh ' Erdine watched as she flew .
" This landing ... strategy thing " Jaune shook his head from side to side " Wh...what is it . You're like dropping us off or something "
" No , You will be falling " Ozpin answered as a kid with a Mohawk launched skyward .
" Oh I see . so did you like , Hand out parachutes for us to use " Jaune became more and more nervous with each answer given .
" No ... you will be using your own landing strategy " Ozpin answered , Clearly having had enough of Juane's skittishness .
' Eh ... if I land on my face ... I land on my face ' Erdine shrugged as he began to inspect his gauntlets , A brown haired boy launching followed by yang who winked at her sister .
And as Ruby launched into the air , Erdine prepared , Squaring his shoulders and spreading his feet slightly.
' This is going to be fun ' Chaos spoke as The lord of chaos couldn't help but agree .
' I'm looking forward to see what kind of beasts they have for me to slay in this forest ' Erdine mused , He could feel the mechanism below trigger , And with an immediate sense of vertigo , He smirked under the helm of he royal remains helmet .
He chuckled to himself as he heard Juane's girlish screams to his back , Choosing to enjoy the feeling of flying through the air like a bird ... or a dragon from home .
And as he reached the apex of his ascent , He watched the others continue onwards , No doubt because of the weight of his armour .
He began to plummet faster and faster towards the ground , Swinging his legs around so they were pointing downwards .
' Hate to be whatever I'm gonna land on ' Erdine mused as he prepared to find out just how durable his kneecaps were with a resigned sigh.
" Fuck "