Oroseia Interlude
Three days later, after the incident in Test Zone 053, Jurabi's wounds had almost finished healing. He opened his red eyes, finding himself inside a white room that appeared to be a ward for patients resting from injury. He looked around for a doctor or a nurse, but no one was in sight. When he tried to move, he felt something keep a tight grip on his left arm. Looking down, he saw Angel sleeping soundly on his arm.
"Angel…?" Jurabi called.
"Mm…not yet, Juju…" Angel muttered, "...More rest."
That was when Jurabi remembered what happened in the underground, from their encounter with the Grimm to the serious injuries he got to the two instances he exhausted his energy. He tried to sit up again, but the little faunus pulled him back.
Angel grumbled, snuggling closer to Jurabi's side. "No...fight... stay here," she mumbled.
"She's been telling you that since she woke up after the first night here. She got outta her bed and snuck into yours to ensure you didn't move. It's quite endearing to know your partner cared that much for you," a soft voice spoke.
Jurabi flinched a little, realizing Aoife was right next to his left, "Ah! Aoif-"
"Shhh," Aoife pressed a finger against his mouth, nodding towards the sleeping Angel. "Don't wake the sleeping angel. Eh? Eeeeh?"
"Nice to see you too," Jurabi said sarcastically.
"Oh come now, Jubi. I spent three days trying to come up with that," Aoife said, "Guess Kenny won't laugh at that one either…"
"That doesn't make it any better," Jurabi grumbled, rubbing his head, "How long have I been out?"
"Three whole days, is what the nurses told me," Aoife said.
"Three days?" Jurabi asked, "But I was fine when I fell asleep and…"
"Jubi, you used up a lot of energy in that fight," Aoife said, "Although your body is that of a Grimm's, it's still human by nature. You have to be careful not to overuse your power, lest it will affect your body."
"I…understand," Jurabi said, "It didn't click with me that I had used that much. I was so focused on everything else." He looked up to the woman and asked, "The others?"
"They were checked on by the doctors and had no infections or injuries," Aoife said, "So they were released earlier. You two are the only ones left."
"Then why is Angel still here? Was she injured and I didn't notice it?" Jurabi questioned.
"Yes. Apparently, Ms. Sky has a knack for hiding things and suffered a nasty wound in her side that required stitches and a lot of antibiotic shots" Aoife said.
At the word shot Angel's wolf ears twitched and the purple-haired girl sprung off the bed in fright and coward in the corner. "NO! NO MORE SHOTS!" she cried, holding a crawled hand up, ready to fight if someone had a needle.
Aoife chuckled, seeing the girl's reaction. "On the first day, she attacked two nurses who tried to give her the shots, and so to prevent her from going feral like that, we didn't mention the word and gave them to her in her sleep," the teacher whispered to Jurabi before addressing the growling girl.
"You what?!" Angel screamed.
"Well, it was the only way to stop the infection from running amok in your little body, sweetie. Besides, you punched the poor nurse tech out after each shot, so you got your payback," Aoife said, smiling at her.
"I did not consent to this!" Angel screamed.
"You didn't, but Toru you're guardian did so its all legal" Aoife grinned throwing up a peace sign.
"You punched a nurse, Angel?!" Jurabi said, his eyes widened.
"I…." Looking down at the ground, Angel tucked in her ears, "I wasn't trying to…"
Jurabi sighed, "Angel…you should know better than to do that. The nurse was just doing her job."
"Well, Jubi, when you have a nasty fear of something and wake up with multiple people trying to stick you with said fear, you probably get a little fist happy. I recall a certain boy reacting just as badly to a situation when he was younger the same way. "Aoife scolded.
"Wha-?! Uh, I don't know what you're talking about!" Jurabi shouted, "You're talking loony, Aoife!"
"Was Juju scared of needles too?" Angel asked crawling back in the bed to sit beside Jurabi.
"Ah!" Jurabi twitched, hearing the faunus ask that question.
"Oh yes. When he was 5 he threw this gigantic tantrum that caused three nurses to quit because he tore off his clothes and screamed down the halls, "HELP CALL THE POLICE THESE MONSTERS ARE TRYING TO DRUG ME!" Aoife cried as she spilled into a stomach-quaking laugh.
"WOWOWWAOWOW, HEY, WOULD YOU LOOK AT THAT I'M FEELING SPECTACULAR!" Jurabi shouted at the top of his lungs, stretching out his limbs, "Time for me to um…go now! Yeah!"
"But…I see a little bit of scars on your ar-"
"Ah, ignore those. I need to talk to the nurse…like…NOW PLEASE?!" Jurabi asked.
Suddenly the door opened, and a doctor and nurse sporting the black eye Angel had given him the night before walked in. "Ah, it seems my sleepy patient and active fighter are up and about today. That's a good sign. Please don't cause any more bodily harm to staff if possible, Miss Sky."
"Holy-!" Jurabi stopped himself, though he was still utterly shocked at the size of the black eye.
Angel bowed her head to the nurse with guilty, tear-filled eyes. "I'm so sorry for what I've done. Please forgive me!"
Even though the two were officially discharged from the ward, they could sense that the nurses wanted them gone as soon as possible.
"I think they loved you two~!" Aoife said, brimming with optimism.
Angel hung her head as she pulled her beanie down to cover up her burning face of shame. "Tiggy will be so disappointed in me."
"We'll work on your…strange instincts, Angel," Jurabi said.
"Anywho…now that you two have been released, the Director wants to talk with you," Aoife said, "Kenny's already gathered the others."
"We're meeting with the Director?" Angel asked.
"Oh, about the entrance exam and Grimm…" Jurabi said, "Yeah, we probably have a lot to talk about."
Jurabi and Angel followed Aoife to the top floor to the Director's office. Upon entering, they found an unexpected scene.
"Now, what do you four have to say for yourselves?!" Doran shouted at Guendolen, Dourado, Seraph, and Lynae, kneeling while listening to his lecture.
"We're sorry for crashing the plane and endangering the pilot," The four said in unison.
"Uh oh…" Aoife whispered, "Acky's bulldog is at it again. Those poor darlings."
"But, really, sir, we had to help out our buddies!" Dourado said.
Doran smacked Dourado's head with a newspaper, "Wrong! Endangering people and destroying property is improper conduct for a hunter!"
"But we totally whopped that creature's ass! I mean, you weren't there, but we rocked its shit!" Lynae said backing up Dourado.
Doran felt a tick growing in his cranium as he slapped the dragon faunus with his newspaper three times, "WRONG! WRONG! WRONG!"
"I frankly don't know why I'm here. I was against taking over the plane and facing certain death, but I got talked into it," Seraph mumbled, getting elbowed in the gut by Lynae.
"Ouro was your partner, Miss Pretorius," Doran said, "And according to the pilot, he heard you give Mr. Ouro the order to 'talk to him' before he was met with a strong fist to the face."
"I told Ouro to indeed talk to him, and I meant to talk to him, but the big buffoon took my words and twisted them into manhandling him for control of the ship," Guendolen stated.
Seraph sighed, "Why can't you guys just accept the punishment…?"
"My, my, Ranny, at it again with your usual lectures," Aoife said, approaching the poor sight.
"Chandani, I do not need the headache that is you right now! Get! Get out of here now," Doran shouted, knowing if the water dust huntress stayed, he would lose the last of his sanity.
"Ah, how sharp your words are~!" Aoife cried, "Thou hast wounded thy beauteous heart."
"Cut it out, Aoife," Ken said, arriving with Jack and Acacia, "I can hear your weird dialect from the other side of the door."
"Ah, Kenny!" Aoife shouted, hugging the unamused faunus, "Thou hast arrived at the most opportune momento."
"And thoust shall blowst thy body out of the building if thoust does not get off!" Ken said, feeling his blood pressure rise.
Aoife did as told, giggling all the while.
Ackmor, who silently listened to all this let out an annoyed sigh as he stood up, "That's enough, everyone. Doran, you may take your leave."
Doran nodded before turning to the four troublemakers. "Report to the library after your meeting. Each of you will write out the designated sentences all across the long chalkboards as punishment. Am I clear?"
"Yes, sir." The four said as the assistant made his leave from the office.
Ackmor chuckled, "Ah…he never fails to amuse this quiet soul." He smiled at Jurabi, "Alisen, how are your wounds?"
"They healed a lot faster than I expected," Jurabi answered.
"Good, that was an unanticipated situation you and Sky found yourselves into," Ackmor said, "On behalf of the academy, I would like to apologize for failing to notice the underground, let alone the Grimm emergence."
Angel shook her head back and forth, waving off the director's apology. "Please don't apologize, sir. Juju and I went underground because we picked up its wave signature. It was all our fault for waking it up!"
"Actually, it was all that Karasu's doing," Seraph said.
Angel tilted her head, "Karasu?"
"Oh, you were unconscious at the time," Jurabi said, feeling his anger boil up at the thought of the man.
Angel tilted her head in confusion but grabbed Jurabi's hand, not liking the angry scent coming from him.
"I think it's best if all of you explained what happened from the beginning," Ackmor said, "What happened down there in the underground."
Jurabi agreed to tell Ackmor everything that occurred, from when he and Angel discovered the old robot to the Grimm's appearance, all the way until they defeated it and their encounter with Karasu.
"I see…" Ackmor said, "You were able to fight off a Controller of all things…it's a miracle all of you are alive today."
Angel then raised her hand. "Um, Director, sir, ahh, did anyone get my mini computer when we were rescued?"
"Ah, yeah, I did," Dourado said, raising his hand, "It's with all my other stuff. I wanted to give it to you when you left the ward, but you never came out for some reason."
"Oh, okay. Well, on my system, there should be a file of the Grimm we faced, and I'll have footage of what all happened after I sent out the danger signal," Angel said shyly, playing with her fingers.
"Excellent," Ackmor said, "Those species of Grimm are rare in Vastel. They're only seen outside the borders where the Nogitsune live. Which brings into question how this Karasu character managed to bring one here."
"Pardon me for changing the subject, but…did we pass the exam?" Acacia asked.
"Ah…that's actually what I wished to talk to you about," Ackmor said, "Before the incident occurred, Guendolen and her team had already passed their exam while yours were on the brink of passing. However…" Ackmor dropped his voice, "Jurabi, Jack, Acacia and Angel, you all failed."
Jurabi's eyes widened with the other three in question, "We…what?!"
"None of you reached the goal, going way off course and entering what could have been considered a restricted zone, recklessly fought against a dangerous adversary without authorization, and to top it all off, all except Jack depleted their aura to exactly 0," Ackmor explained, "So yes, you all failed."
"That was my fault! Please don't fail them. I told them they have to use everything they had to take the monster down," Angel pleaded.
"Hate to break it to you, but the rules state that you and your partner pass or fail together," Ken said.
"Rightly so…" Ackmor said.
"Man, that really sucks to hear," Dourado said, scratching his head.
"As for the teams of Guendolen, Dourado, Seraph and Lynae…" Ackmor began, "You all are disqualified and have failed the exam too."
The four in question widened their eyes at the revelation.
"I-What?!" All four shouted in unison.
"The hell for?!" Lynae shouted.
"Is it not obvious?" Ackmor asked, "First, you hijacked a military plane and put the pilot in serious danger, flew said plane straight into what could be considered a restricted zone, crashed it into a mountain, fought against an adversary without authorization, and all except Miss Pretorius here depleted their auras to zero. Due to the incident with the plane and destroying military property, your entry into our academy is hereby revoked."
The four in question turned to stone upon hearing the mountain of mess-ups they did, all resulting in their dilemma.
"Are you freakin' kidding me?!" Douardo shouted.
"We did all that…just to be booted out?!" Lynae shouted, "How is that right in any way?!"
"I..me…?! A Pretorius?! Failing?! I'd sooner die than live with that shame!" Guendolen shouted.
Seraph sighed, "Well, back to being an Argyros knight, I guess…"
"Yeesh, Acky doesn't fool around," Aoife whispered to Ken.
"Director, is there any way we can overturn this judgment? These four came to our rescue. If they did not show up, you would have four students dead on your hands, which could lead to a lot of unwanted press and potential lawsuits from unhappy families. Especially those of higher station," Acacia said in an attorney-like manner.
"A crafty statement, Miss Acacia," Ackmor said, "Were I in the prime of my youth, I would be shaking in my boots. However, I did not finish what I wished to discuss."
Angel looked at him with big, tear-filled eyes. "Please, don't kick them out of the academy, sir."
"You do not need to use those eyes, Miss Sky, I am not kicking any of you out," Ackmor said, giving her a smile, "They were cute, though."
"Wait, you're not gonna kick us out?" Lynae asked, "What, are we just gonna be official hunters or something?"
"Yes," Ackmor answered.
"Ah, okay," Lyane said, "Cause that would have been really stup-Wait what?"
Ackmor stood up from his desk with a smile, "As of today, because the eight present here today defeated a B-ranked Grimm without aid from an A-rank hunter and above, the eight of you are now official hunters. Congratulations!"
The room went dead silent save for the round of applause Ackmor gave.
"He did not just…" Ken whispered while Aoife was bouncing up and down in excitement.
"WHAAAAAAAAAAT?!" They screamed, the sheer volume threatening to break the glass windows around them.
"I'm sorry, I think I'm still passed out in my hospital room. How in Honkai Girl's name does that make sense? We failed, and yet we got prompted instead?!" Jurabi asked in shock.
"That's right~! As some would say, you failed upwards," Ackmor said, "Even though all of you failed the entrance exam, you did something unprecedented. You defeated a B-ranked Grimm. Such talent would go to waste if we turned you away."
"You, sir. Have a very backward way of thinking. Are we sure he has all his screws tightened upstairs?" Jack asked.
"Oh no, I am a very sane individual. A sane soul, if you will," Ackmor grinned.
"Yea, and the lovestruck ball of sunshine leading on the man of muscle over there isn't a loon that causes your assistant to question his life choices daily," Seraph said, pointing at Aoife.
"Guilty as charged~!" Aoife sang.
Ken sighed and facepalmed. "That wasn't a compliment."
Ackmor chuckled, "Come now, why the adversity towards my decision? It's the best outcome all of you could hope for."
"To be frank, Director, offers like this don't come without a cost," Guendolen said, "What's the catch? It's strange that you're willing to do this for the eight of us when any other group wouldn't even get to speak with you. Could it have something to do with how we were paired up?"
"Perspective like a Pretorious should," Ackmor said, grinning, "I was worried none of you would catch on."
"Wait…what…?" Dourado asked.
"So the one who paired us up in such a strange way…" Angel began.
"Was me," Ackmor said, "Much to Doran's frustration and against standard protocol, of course."
"Wh-Why?" Acacia asked, "It's not like it would make a difference if the guys were with the guys and the girls with girls."
"Oh no, that's not the reason I paired you all the way I did," Ackmor said, Staring out the window, "Have you heard of the story of the Guardians?"
"The Guardians?" Lynae asked.
"The beings who created this world, yes?" Seraph asked.
"Correct," Ackmor said.
"Pardon my lack of knowledge on Vastelian beliefs, but what are Guardians, exactly?" Jack asked.
"Ah, my apologies," Ackmor said, "The Nogitsune's beliefs differ from Vastelians. How should I explain this…?"
"If I may, Director…" Guendolen stepped forward.
"Yes, Miss Pretorius?" Ackmor asked.
"My family worship and study the Guardians and their history," Guendolen said, "I don't mind briefly explaining what I know."
"By all means," Ackmor said.
"Now, if I recall Father's exact words…"
Guendolen began her explanation on the Guardians of Vastel.
In the beginning, there was a spiritual family known as the Guardians, eight spirits who possessed power over the elements. Their father, Vastel, created Reigal, the world they know today, and he blessed the continent of Vastel with his power.
"He blessed the continent?" Lynae asked.
"That's right," Aoife said, "I'm sure you all know that each person in this room has what we call 'Dust Affinity'. Everyone is born with it but only activates it after receiving training from a hunter or an adept dust user."
"That is what makes Vastel so special compared to the other continents," Ackmor explained.
Guendolen continued her story, explaining that after Vastel finished creating Reigal and Vastel, he assigned the eight Guardians to four important regions.
Aslan, the Guardian of Darkness, and Satone, the Guardian of Water, watched over the region where the moon shined brightest near the calm sea, Vulna.
Kateus, the Guardian of Fire, and Bezatri, the Guardian of Light, watched over the region where the sun shined and burned brightest, Igarus.
Nerulia, the Guardian of Thunder, and Kagera, the Guardian of Earth, watched over the region where the tallest mountain and stormiest thunderclouds ruled the sky, Sokkitia.
And Tayuna, the Guardian of Ice, and Yostinar, the Guardian of Wind, watched over the region of the cold, icy winds, Staneia.
"Wow, this is how that story I read described it," Jurabi said.
"Story?" Angel asked.
"Yes, the Guardians of Vastel," Jurabi said, "It's a children's book that teaches the kids about the Guardians. It depicted them as brave heroes who fought off against dark forces."
"Yeah, I think I recall seeing a book like that in my hometown," Acacia said, "My brother was a big fan of it, but I didn't see the appeal."
Guendolen continued again, talking about how long the Guardian's rule lasted: four hundred years.
"Then that means…" Dourado began, "The Guardians existed nearly six-hundred years ago?! Doesn't feel that long ago…"
"Six-hundred years is plenty of time for civilizations to grow, change, fall, and repeat," Ken said, looking over at his director, "I have a feeling you're going somewhere with this, Director."
"Yes, I am," Ackmor said, "but first, let's allow Miss Pretorius to finish. With these constant interruptions, she's likely fuming in the head right now."
"I do not have the energy nor desire to be 'fuming,' Director," Guendolen said.
"You definitely look like you're fuming, Guen," Dourado said, flinching at her cold stare, "Okay, okay, I'm sorry…"
The snow-haired girl continued once again in hopes no one would interrupt again. She talked about what occurred to end the rule of the Guardians, according to the Pretorius High Priests. Over the next four centuries of watching humanity and faunus thrive, the Guardians began to grow overly attached to the mortals. It was their duty to punish those who disrupt the peace their father had built, but all except Bezatri succumbed to their love.
When Bezatri warned her fellow Guardians of the coming dangers, Aslan decided to work with her to found two family factions to watch and lead the mortals. The Guardian of Darkness created the Therion family, and The Guardian of Light created the Pretorius family.
"That's peculiar," Seraph said, "I've seen plenty of Pretorius, but I've yet to see a single one of these 'Therions'."
"Y-Yeah, where are they?" Angel asked.
"They vanished after the Great Collapse along with the Guardians," Ackmor's answer made the whole room go silent.
"The Great Collapse?" Jurabi asked.
"That's when the Grimm first appeared in our world," Ken said, "Now one knows how they came to be or where they came from. At first, they started as frightened critters no one paid mind to; however, they eventually grew into ferocious creatures that brought the world to the ruined state it's in now."
"Which leads us to why I wish to form this team," Ackmor said, "Mr. Alisen here is, as you could tell, a special individual- one who has gained the attention of not one but two terrorist organizations. That is why I'm forming a team to support him while he's on his mission."
"His mission?" Acacia asked.
"As hunters, you will all be tasked with supporting Jurabi Alisen in eliminating the Grimm threat in addition to investigating the two terrorist organizations and bring them to justice," Ackmor announced.
"Wait…us?!" Acacia asked, taking a step back.
"Whoa, that's insane," Dourado said, "So…we're basically a superhero team!"
"The hell we aren't!" Seraph shouted.
Ackmor chuckled at the tiger faunus's wild imaginations, "It's sort of like that. This team is more of…a potential elite squad that may serve Oroseia well in the future."
"An elite squad?" Guendolen asked, "Would that mean you have missions in mind for us."
"Correct, Miss Pretorius," Ackmor said, "Official hunters of Vastel have a moral obligation to help those in need, regardless of social standing. All of you are no exception. Each month, your team will be given an assignment they must complete before the month ends. You all shall work to complete the task as a team and report to me before the deadline. Understood?" The teens before him nodded as he continued, "I will soon provide Miss Chandani and Mr. Vongarus with the necessary details for your first mission."
"Sweet! That doesn't sound like a bad proposition," Lynae said, smirking, "Anything's better than being a student stuck in a classroom without any action."
"Actually…about that," Ackmor said, "All of you will be studying under Aoife Chandani and Ken Vongarus for the coming four years."
"Wha-?!" Lynae's eyes widened, her brain trying to process the new information.
"All of you are currently beginner hunters," Ackmor said with a sinister smile, "It'd be a shame if none of you learned the basics."
"Wh-Wh…ARE YOU KIDDING ME?!" Lynae screamed.
"I had a feeling there was a catch to all this," Jack said, "This is just extra work on top of studying here."
"Ugh, that sounds like a hassle…" Jurabi whined.
"Oh, don't worry, my darlings," Aoife said, stepping in front of the group, "Kenny and I won't be too harsh on you. Leave things to us, and all of you will be pros before you know it."
"Leave things to you?" Ken asked, "Every time you say that, Aoife, disaster follows."
"Disas-Pfft! Name one time things went wrong under my watch!" Aoife shouted.
"That time you accidentally thought a beowolf was an actual wolf, when you set an entire grocery on fire with fire bubbles, when you tried to wrestle a Beringel, the awful cooking you made for last year's Oroseia Homecoming, and something that involved a peanut butter jar and a pickle."
Aoife blushed a little, scratching her head. "I mean…you have to admit peanut butter and pickles taste great together…"
"What are we getting ourselves into…?" Jack asked, facepalming.
"Four years of fun, young Starfeld," Ackmor said, giving an amused smile, "but as standard protocol, I am obligated to offer each and every one of you a chance to decline this offer."
"Can we decline?" Dourado asked.
"Indeed," Ackmor nodded, "Asking teenagers to risk their lives is not something I take lightly. You cannot attend the academy this year but will be eligible to retry the entrance exams next year. Understand, though, that once you become a part of this team, there's no turning back, no matter the danger you face." After he stated the terms, he watched as the seven teenagers looked at each other and then at Jurabi with conflicted looks. "You all have forty-eight hours to come to a decision. You may report to either Miss Chandani or Mr. Vongarus until then. That is all."
After the ten dismissed individuals exited his office, Ackmor let out a deep sigh and said, "I know you didn't actually leave, Doran. Come on out."
Not two seconds later, Doran teleported in, leaving behind white feathers. His stare was as cold as Ice as usual.
"I know what you're about to say, so you can save your energy," Ackmor said, "This is a big risk I'm taking, I know."
"That is an understatement, Director," Doran said, "Asking teenagers to embark on dangerous tasks? Have you gone mad?!"
"You saw what they were capable of as a team, Doran," Ackmor said, "We struggle getting the new students to communicate so much as they are, let alone fight in unison. This group has the potential to change that and show everyone how it should be done."
"If that was your aim, then you should have had them go through the learning process like every other-"
"Doran, your carefulness is undeniably valuable," Ackmor stated, standing up from his seat to look at his assistant, "but surely you realize what is going on out there."
"The Grimm variants? Yes, Rosela informed me of such, but…"
"Time will soon run out," Ackmor said, "Yes…I am taking a big risk but…"
"Director?" Doran asked.
Ackmor went silent before leaving, "I'm going to investigate that underground facility. Have Miss Sky send the data to my personal computer for me, will you?"
"I…" Doran let out a sigh before nodding, "Yes…sir…" But he couldn't wrap his mind to understand what Ackmor was trying to say, sounding as if he wasn't talking to the assistant.
##
"Augh, this sucks!" Lynae shouted, sitting next to her mother Indra in the training room, "Why do I have to juggle school work?! I want to go out there and fight some Grimm!"
Indra giggled, patting her daughter's blue hair, "Why are you so worked up about this, Lynae? If you ask me, you have an opportunity other students rarely get to have. You should be happy to have this chance to make something of yourself."
"I already did that several times with the Underground Brawl tournaments," the blue haired dragon faunus pouted, placing her chin on top of her hands, "All those books and pencils and such just ain't my style."
"Neither was it mine," Indra said, "but you'll come to understand how crucial everything you learn at this academy really is on the battlefield. Remember, fighting Grimm is never a game. It's life-or-death."
"Yeah, yeah, I get that, Mom," Lynae said, "You said it so many times I'm shocked my ears haven't bled yet."
"Lynae."
"Ahaha…sorry, sorry. I'll take this seriously. I'm more worried for Dad, though. What'll he think of all this?"
"Oh, your dad is already losing his mind over your involvement in that battle," Indra said, giggling at the sigh her daughter responded with, "Come on. We'll both get a heavy lecture if we don't get home in time."
"Alright…" Lynae said as she followed her mother to meet up with her father.
##
Meanwhile, Seraph sat outside of the academy entrance, sipping on a soda bottle while being aware of his sister staring at him from the side.
"So…? How was it?" Lily asked, almost excited to hear her brother's story.
Seraph exhaled after removing the soda from his mouth and answered with a shrug, "Not as bad as I expected. Although, I do have to go to the library to do pointless writing on a chalkboard."
"Hehe, but it was worth the story of crashing a plane, wasn't it?"
Seraph stared at his enthusiastic sister, mentally groaning at her oblivious nature, "You wouldn't be saying that if you had to deal with two troublemakers for teammates."
"It was just a joke, Seraph," Lily said, rocking her legs back and forth on the bench, "So, did you hear? Apparently something happened back at home."
"I did. Something about a calling card?" Seraph asked, "I doubt it has anything to do with our family."
"Perhaps, but…" Lily whispered.
"Anyways, I gotta go," Seraph said, "Catch you later."
"Seraph?" Lily asked, pausing when she saw that look in his eyes. The look of someone who knows something. "About those Eclipse members…"
"Lin wasn't among them, unfortunately," Seraph said, seeing his sister breath a sigh of relief, "Are you worried?"
"No…well…" The older sibling sighed and admitted the opposite.
The younger smiled and patted his sister's left shoulder, "Ease up on it, alright? You're too young to be stressing yourself out. Isn't that what Rayleigh always told you?"
"Funny because I'm older than you, but yeah…" Lily whispered with a smile, "He did."
"Best case scenario, the stuff with Lin was all one big goose chase and she's back with her family on good terms," Seraph said, but a quick frown fell upon his face when he thought back to Lin and her troubles. What led her to joining such an organization to begin with.
Lily, catching the change in expression, didn't press it further either. She was aware of how troubled her brother clearly was, as he has been all these years.
##
In the academy greenhouse, Jack held onto his wounded abdomen where Karasu had punched him. The words from the snake faunus remained etched on his mind, leading to words he exchanged with the one he had avoided.
"I…I don't understand…" His voice whimpered, "Why would you agree to any of this?! What did those humans do to deserve this?!"
"Like an annoying pup, you ask far too many questions," A female voice echoed, "Is it not the way of the Nogitsune to seek power? The only way to obtain it is to take it from those who don't deserve it. This is only the first step on that path. A weakling like you ought to appreciate the chance to rise above your pathetic fate, Jack."
"No…no! I won't accept it, Liviera!"
Jack's expression twisted, annoyance and regret swirling inside his heart like a raging whirlpool. It, however, reseeded when he heard a familiar female voice, Acacia.
"How is your stomach, Jack?" Acacia asked, arms behind her back.
"Worrying about me isn't going to make it any better," Jack said, "Shouldn't you have more important matters to attend to?"
"I…yes, but…" Acacia walked closer to the fox faunus, noticing the sweat rolling down his brow, "...how can I leave a troubled individual alone?"
"I have no troubles," Jack said, turning away from her.
"If that were the case, then why did you lash out at that man?" Acacia asked, "I know we just met, but even that seemed unnatural for someone like you."
"He was an enemy. Anyone would have attacked him at that moment. If I recall, Alisen was close to losing it as well."
"True, but…"
Jack turned to the orange-haired teen with a serious stare, "I've told you before not to talk to me. Like I said…there will be rumors."
Acacia hardened her expression, staring into the boy's red eyes, "So what? People can talk about whatever they want, but it means nothing if they don't know a single thing about either of us."
"As if it matters if they did know me…" Jack muttered.
Acacia slightly heard through the mutter, feeling her heart drop as she remembered the story Karasu dumped onto them about the Nogitsune. Her hand moved to reach out to him, but she stopped herself and sighed, "...Thank you."
Jack raised an eyebrow at the statement. "What for?"
"For helping us with that monster," Acacia clarified, "The others might not have noticed, but you kept it at bay while I healed Alisen."
"I did what I had to," Jack said, "Doubt you'll be wanting to thank me after the tenth to hundredth time I do that."
"Perhaps…but it's better to be thankful and regretful of things," Acacia said.
"What do you…?" Jack stopped himself, realizing he was engaging in a conversation with her.
The girl let out a giggle and turned around, "Alright, I'll leave you to your plants. Just keep in mind that I'm going to accept the Director's offer," She then glanced at him with a smile, "in case you worry you might be lonely."
After the girl left, Jack let out a sigh and stared at the growing buds, finding them symbolic in ways he couldn't properly describe.
"Pushing people away won't do you any favors, Jack," Ken's voice said.
Jack glances over at Ken, relaxing near the entryway, "I did it for her sake and mine. It's for the best."
"Funny…your mother always said the same thing," Ken said.
"Don't mention her…" Jack whispered, his face twisting in pain.
"I wouldn't do so lightly," Ken said, "I can't bear to see you hurting like this, Jack. I…I wouldn't allow myself to face her if anything happened to you."
"Will you cut that out?" Jack asked, his tone raising in volume, "You're not my dad! Stop pretending-Ah…" His annoyed sigh stopped his train of thought.
Ken, however, understood exactly what he was about to say. "Then pardon me. I stepped too far. Just…promise me…promise your mother you won't do anything reckless on your missions?"
"How did you know I was going to accept?" Jack asked.
"How could I not know?" Ken answered with a smile, "We're family, aren't we?"
Jack silently gazed away from the faunus, reluctantly nodding his head, "Yeah…we are. Just…don't tell anyone else."
Ken chuckled, "It's a secret between the two of us." He examined the boy top to bottom, remembering that unmistakable feeling watching him tend to the flowers just as she did, "You really are…just like my sister."
##
Meanwhile, in a meeting room, Dourado and Guendolen sat at opposite ends of each other at the long meeting table, the latter refusing to make eye contact with the former.
"Ah, Quixote Ouro," Nero said, shaking hands with Dourado's grandmother in the other meeting room, "A delightful surprise to meet you here of all places."
"The feeling is mutual, Nero Granada," Quixote responded with a smile, "I've heard many tales of your achievements in your academy years. A shame I never got to witness them, let alone teach you."
"Your flattery is most appreciated," Nero said, "I must apologize on behalf of Lady Pretorius's…stand-offish nature."
"No need for apology," Quixote said, glancing over at the young girl, "I can tell from here that she is a gifted youngling with much to learn still."
"And I hope your grandson won't prove troublesome for her? Guendolen doesn't take kindly to those who impede her progress."
The old granny let out a chuckle, watching the little Pretorius chew out the tiger faunus, "If there's one thing you Pretorius shouldn't count on, it's an Ouro's ability to stay in one place for too long. Dourado can and will make a lot of noise…but in some way, I think he will learn a valuable lesson with his partner."
"In that case, this may…brighten up Guendolen's time here," Nero said, "Griffon may disagree, but I think it's for the best."
"I already told you how sorry I am, Guen," Dourado whined, "Can't you at least forgive me?"
"All you had to do was possess the most basic comprehension and critical thinking, Ouro," Guendolen said, "but because you lacked both, I am stuck with an unjustified punishment."
"Okay…I already admitted hundreds of times how sorry I am for that mistake," Dourado said, "Even more if you count my apology for Seraph and Lynae!"
"As if that matters to me," Guendolen said, standing up from her chair, "I'm off to find my quarters. Do not speak to me unless I give you permission to, understand?"
"I…but…" Dourado sighed after looking into her cold, golden eyes, "Yes, ma'am."
"And finally…don't call me Guen again," Guendolen said, "You may find it petty and annoying, but I respect my family too much to allow outsiders like you to disrespect our culture."
Dourado breathed a sad sigh, watching the Pretorius storm off in a huff. "I'm in for a rough semester, aren't I…?"
##
Meanwhile, Angel spoke with Toru at the front entrance of the academy.
"Are you really leaving, Tiggy?" Angel asked, glancing over his packed suitcase.
"I'm afraid so," Toru said, taking out a pocket watch to check the time, "The chief called me back for important duties. Frankly, I'm a little hesitant to go…"
"You have nothing to worry about," Angel said, holding his hands and smiling at him, "We have plenty of reliable professors here and I made so many friends in such a short time."
"I wish your time in this building is what I'm worried about," Toru said, looking down at her hands, "You…you can't begin to understand how close to dying you were down there."
Angel frowned, remembering how frightened she was in the face of a monster as menacing as the Controller, but what made her shake to the core was the image of Jurabi on the brink of death. Then, she remembered how that boy didn't give into fear as she did. He stood up and picked up his broken weapon and fought on.
"You're right to worry, Tiggy," Angel said, looking into the eyes of the man who cared for her, "Had things gone even slightly different, I wouldn't be standing here today, but they didn't because of my friends…because of Juj-uh-Mr. Alisen."
"Too true," Toru said, "But…"
"It will be okay, Tiggy," Angel said, "If things get dangerous for me, I'll be sure to fall back. I ask for your and the Ice Guardian's faith in my strength."
Toru stared at the girl, his expression slowly softening, melting into a small, proud smile. Hugging her tightly, he whispered to her, "Then may the Blessing of the Ice Maiden watch over you."
"Thank you, Tiggy. I will pray for your safe travels."
##
Aoife stared at the door to the dressing room at the clothing store, her hands clasped together. "Jubi? Are you done?"
"Ugh, I don't know if this outfit is good for me?" Jurabi asked.
"Too tight or too loose?"
"Well…" Jurabi soon stepped out, wearing a light blue suit over a white dress shirt, a red tie around his neck. Pants as black as his hair with matching dress shoes, "I don't think blue is for me…"
"Perish such thoughts, Jubi!" Aoife shouted, her amber eyes sparkling, "You look absolutely dazzling! I knew the student uniform would fit you like a glove."
"Do I…really have to wear this?" Jurabi asked.
"Oh you do," Aoife said, "As the director said, you will still be a student here and students are required to wear appropriate outfits during class hours." Seeing the blank stare from the boy, she continued, "Give it time. You'll be loving that outfit before you know it."
"If you say so…"
After Jurabi swapped back into his usual clothes, he followed Aoife to a nearby observatory that had a wonderful view of both the academy and the surrounding city.
"Wow…I'm still surprised there's even a city around this academy…" Jurabi said.
"Hehe, if you're curious, we can take a grand tour together sometime," Aoife said, taking on a smirk, "We can even call it a date if it makes you comfortable."
"A date?" Jurabi asked before breathing a sigh, "You and your jokes again…"
"Hmph, you're just like Kenny, you know that?" Aoife asked, "I just don't understand why boys aren't gung-ho for women like me."
"It's because men don't like things that come with a mental health tax," Jurabi said, bluntly.
"Such harsh words!" Aoife shouted, faking her offense before smiling and giggling, "Then I'll just have to find a way to not be a mental drain. Maybe then Kenny will…Ah! Look at me rambling. So…how is it?"
"How is what?" Jurabi asked.
"The view? Lovely, isn't it?"
"Yeah…"
"Your mother always loved coming here," Aoife said, staring out at the horizon, "She would always drag me, Kenny, and Kane here even for the most petty of reasons just for this gorgeous view from the clear blue skies to the setting of the sun."
"Kane…isn't that…?"
Aoife nodded, frowning at the mention of the name, "The former chieftain of Staneia. My dear friend…"
"I faintly remember him," Jurabi said, "He and my mom seem to be close friends." He felt his head beat at his last memory of Kane, feeling as though there's something missing.
"Heh, close friends and bitter rivals," Aoife said, her smile returning, "Though it'd be more fitting to say Dana and Griffon were more grand rivals in comparison. Those two had a strange aura when they were together."
"I can imagine," Jurabi said, looking down at the tiled floor, "Hey, Miss Chandani."
Aoife glanced over to the boy, surprised to see him try to initiate the next topic. "Yes?"
"You and Mr. Vongarus both believe my mother is still alive, right?" Jurabi asked.
"Others call it blind faith," Aoife said, "She's been labeled MIA for ten years. We've looked high and low for her throughout the nations, but turned up with not a single clue."
"In that case…" Jurabi began, looking out at the horizon, "I want to find her."
Aoife was shocked for a moment, finding it bewildering that the boy would say that after what she just told him, but then she remembered that he was Dana's child. With a smile, she pinched the boy's cheek, "Then I'll have to do my part to not to damage that bright hope of yours, Jubi."
"Thanks, Aoife. I don't know how the others will feel about the Director's proposal, but…it wouldn't mind if they chose to stand by my side," Jurabi said, his thoughts moving to his happy memories of his childhood, "I know my parents would wish the same."
##
Karasu and Volan made their way through a dark corridor, a proud smile on the former's face while the latter's expression had barely changed since they arrived.
"You shouldn't have pestered those teens, Karasu," Volan said to the snake faunus.
"Oh, Volan, where's the fun in just dropping a Grimm on those teens and running away?" Karasu asked, "Seeing the anger in Alisen boil up again was well worth the risk, if you ask me."
"Saying that to Deathwatch won't yield a happy end for you."
"I am well aware of that, but no worries," Karasu said with a smirk as they entered the dark meeting chamber, "Deathwatch and I go far back."
The two walked forward, the purple light of the moon above them shining down upon the darkened hall where Liviera stood before them. With a quick motion, Karasu lowered his upper half in a bowing gesture, "We have returned, everyone."
"Ugh, the snake again," Livera spat, turning away from the two, "Let me guess. Alisen 'spoiled' your grand infiltration plan?"
"Actually, Alisen brought about remarkable results," Karasu said, an evil chuckle escaping his lips, "I'm sure Deathwatch would love to hear what I've learned."
"No need to explain, Karasu," Deathwatch said, his purple mask hiding any emotion he may have, "I could sense it from here. Alisen's true power sprouted like a winter flower. Truly a force to be reckoned with and to account for."
"An astute conclusion," Karasu said, "but I think I should inform you of the experiment I conducted."
"You used the Controller Grimm I provided you, didn't you?"
The snake faunus nodded, soon giving the details of what occurred within those ruins and how it all ended. This included the names of the individuals who aided Jurabi and the surprising show of teamwork and strength from people so young and green. It was a spectacle for one as cunning and devious as he.
"This is unexpected…" Deathwatch whispered, "Not only an Ouro and Argyros but a Pretorius too?"
"Combine that with Alisen and his power, it sounds like their meeting isn't a mere coincidence," Liviera said.
"That Director…" Deathwatch growled, clenching his fists, "Inviting a Grimm into the academy and gathering these youths together…we should take care to account for whatever plans he has."
"A wise decision," Karasu said, chuckling evilly before saying, "Especially when both a member of the Snow Wolf tribe and a Nogitsune is among them."
The dark room went dead quiet afterward, the sound of the lifeless wind blowing through the curtains.
"What did you just say…?" Liviera whispered.
"Both of you are familiar with those two titles, aren't you?" Karasu asked, turning to Volan, "Dear Volan's semblance is such a useful tool, isn't it?"
"So…" Deathwatch whispered, walking forward, "That's his game. I should have known…"
"Have you realized something, Deathwatch?" Liviera asked.
The masked man nodded, sitting down at his table, "Yes. Director Kurosaki's plan…he intends…to revive the legend long forgotten…the Vastel Guardians."
The black fox lady's eyes widened. "But…that legend has long died out centuries ago! What does he hope to gain from…?"
"A legend, dead as it is, can inspire hope in the masses, Liviera," Karasu said, "A hopeful civilization is impossible to divide. The Director knows this, which explains his…bizarre choices of late."
"In that case, we must do all we can to lay that nuisance of a legend to a final grave," Deathwatch said, staring at the cane in his hand, "Thankfully, we have the aid of a… deceased business partner." With the press of a button, the top of the cane rotated, revealing an eyeball encased in a special liquid made to prolong its lifespan.
An evil smile crept on Livera's face as she remembered the man she had taken that eyeball from. "Is it my time to shine, sir?"
"You and Savage both, Liviera," Deathwatch said, handing the eyeball cane to her, "Your next mission will take you both to Sokkitia. Our esteemed compatriot will assist you in your task. Wait in the city for her order."
Liviera nodded, taking the cane, "As you wish." She made her way to the exit, walking past Karasu, who was likely smirking under his mask.
"Be wary of the Nogitsune, Liviera. He's a feisty one."
The black fox let out an evil giggle, "Feisty? To you? Don't make me laugh. There's no one more inferior to me…than my puny brother, Jack."
##
Back at Oroseia Academy, a day had passed since Ackmor's offer to the seven students. Jurabi, feeling exhausted from being dragged around by Aoife, wasn't looking forward to the rest of the tour.
"Now, we have the beauty salon, and the spa, and the-"
"Aoife, enough…" Jurabi groaned, "You're just taking me to places you want to go."
"Places I want to go?" Aoife asked, "Nonsense. There are many benefits to a Grimm perfecting its beauty and relaxing under the warmth of the fragmented waters!"
"I've never seen a Grimm utter a single word, let alone chill out at a hot spring."
"Hey, there's a first time for anything, Jubi~!" Aoife cheered.
Jurabi let out a groan, praying to the Guardians above to save him from this ordeal. A prayer that would soon be answered.
"Juju! Miss Chandani! We've been looking for you!"
Jurabi stopped in his tracks at the sound of Angel's voice. He turned around, surprised to see not just the young faunus girl but the rest of the six teens who fought with him.
"Angel?" Jurabi asked, looking at the others, "Everyone?"
"My, I didn't expect all of you to be here so soon," Aoife said, checking her watch, "It's not even noon yet. What are you…?"
"Well, everyone here talked together, and we've decided unanimously," Guendolen began, "From today forth, the eight of us are a team."
Aoife's eyes widened, "You…all of you agreed?!"
"That's right," Dourado said, giving his cheeky grin, "Of course, I was going to still stick with you even if the others declined."
"Oh, please. As if I'd skip out on a chance to fight alongside someone like Alisen," Lynae said, "Not to mention the missions we get to go on while everyone else is stuck here with all the boring school work? Count me in!"
"Guys…" Jurabi whispered.
"We already informed the Director of our decision, so no talking us out of this one," Acacia said, "I look forward to working with you, Jurabi."
"That's…great," Jurabi said, "Wonderful, even. I would have managed on my own, but the thought of you guys having my back out there puts my mind at ease."
"Hehe, in that case, I was hoping we could all share a meal together for the first time," Angel said, "It'll serve as both a victory celebration and a post-battle analysis. What do you think, Juju?"
Jurabi tried his best to hide how that proposition caught him off guard as he asked, "I'm…invited?"
"Of course!" Angel said, "Why wouldn't you be?"
"But…I…"
Seeing the hesitation on Jurabi's face, Aoife stepped in and said, "I one hundred percent support this proposal of Angie's!"
"A-Aoife…"
Angel's eyes widened, hearing the nickname the woman had given her, "A-Angie…?"
"Come on, Jurabi!" Dourado shouted, "If Miss Chandani here is okay with it, you should come along. Besides, we can't celebrate very well without the key to our victory present."
"He's right!" Acacia cheered, "We were only able to win against that monster because we had you and Angel's help, Jurabi!"
"I…will admit it," Guendolen said with a sigh, "Compared with that buffoon who knows nothing save frontal attacks, Sky's tactics combined with your power were nearly decent."
Seraph sighed annoyingly, "Way to include a back-handed compliment with an insult towards Dourado…"
"Eh, it's not a big deal, best bud," Dourado said, "Strategy isn't my strong suit, anyways. I must agree, though. Angel's tactics and Jurabi's power were super cool."
"I'll say," Lynae said, "I'm glad you came around when you did, Jurabi. Now I have a reignited passion to fight you and beat that incredible power of yours. You better not slack on your training, you hear?"
"Now's not the time to be picking fights with a half-Grimm, Lynae…" Seraph muttered.
"Whatever you guys want to do, you can do it in your free time," Jack said, letting out a yawn, "Today was so exhausting with all the walking around we had to do. I'm so hungry I can barely stand…"
"To be honest, so am I," Acacia said, "Let's head to the dining hall. Together."
Aoife smiled at Jurabi as the other six began to make their way to the dining hall, "Teehee, guess all of you make a good team after all."
"Yeah…." Jurabi whispered.
"In any case, that concludes our tour for the day, Jubi," Aoife said, beginning to walk off, "You enjoy your lovely meal with your friends. I have to look for Kenny now."
"Aw…maybe next time we can have a meal with you, um…Mafe," Angel said.
Aoife stopped at the sound of the girl's nickname and smiled. Turning back to her, she gave her own smile, "I'll keep that in mind, Angie."
Angel's smile remained on her face as the woman walked away, but when she turned to Jurabi, it vanished when she noticed something off. "I'm…sorry to intrude, Juju, but…you don't look too happy about all this."
Jurabi's stoic frown remained plastered on his face as he looked down, feeling his heart drop at the grim reminder, "It's nothing. You're…mistaken, Angel."
"You say that, but your eyes tell a different story." Angel glanced over at the necklace resting around Jurabi, the bright glow of the yellowstone sparking something inside her. "I know we only…that we haven't known each other for long, so this may be difficult for you. Frankly, I don't wish to force you into anything you don't want…" She gave him a warm smile as she held his hand into her own, "...but I'd love nothing more than to share our happiness with you."
"Angel…" Jurabi stared at her hand, feeling its warmth overtake how cold he was.
"I remember someone once told me something important," Angel continued, "Joy can be so fleeting, coming and going in the passage of time. There's no telling when all of it may end, but we're all in this together…so I hope that will be enough for your wounded heart."
"Wounded heart?" Jurabi thought to himself, realizing he never told her about his past. How did she…?
"I'm sure the others feel the same," Angel said, "So just for today…"
Jurabi closed his eyes to ponder on whether or not he should go. Thinking about all the kind things the others said about his power, he realized that none of them feared him. In fact, Lynae and Dourado may have been ignited by his sheer strength. Opening his eyes to face the girl who didn't turn him away since the beginning, he held on to her hand and answered. "Okay, lead the way."
Angel's smile brightened. "Come along, Juju. Let's enjoy the fruits of our labor!"
As the young faunus guided the boy to the dining hall, Jurabi felt his heart begin to skip beats, a new feeling welling up inside his core.
This feeling.
It was faint, but it felt familiar. Looking down at his held hand, he visualized his mother holding it while smiling at him and his father on the other side, waiting for both of them. Jurabi wished for this to be true. Part of him would take this dream as reality without a second thought, but then his vision reverted back to Angel happily walking him to their destination in the academy.
"Perhaps…things aren't so bad after all…"
##
Underneath Test Zone 053, Ackmor gazed out at the expansive depths as researchers and investigators examined every inch of the secured areas. With a swipe of his finger, he scrolled through the map Angel outlined during her encounter with the Grimm, surprised at how accurate the details were. However, it didn't take long for him to notice something about the map.
"This is only a small piece," Ackmor said to himself, "but this place…there's no doubt in my mind now…"
He paused at the sound of footsteps growing louder behind him. Ackmor knew it wasn't a researcher coming to report their findings or an investigator asking him a question.
"I had a feeling you'd be here," Ackmor said, turning to the approaching figure.
A tall female covered in darkness save for her red eyes and glowing red hair highlights.
"You felt the disturbance, too, didn't you?" Ackmor asked, looking around at the ruins, "The surge of dark atoms that were released in the battle here… clearly they are a step above the normal dark atoms."
"Potent as it was," The woman said, "I can sense it. The boy relied on raw emotion and will to draw out the strength, but the two alone are not enough."
"Agreed," Ackmor said, "Still, I never would have guessed that core would bring out his power this quickly. Where did you get it?"
Silence was the answer he received.
"You're going to do this every time I ask an important question, aren't you? Heh, you've changed."
"The questions you asked…they're for Jurabi to ask, not you."
"Perhaps, but I have a duty to know what happened to you as well," Ackmor said, "Besides…Jurabi wouldn't be happy to learn about you lurking in the shadows for this long."
Silence followed for a brief moment before two pitch-black hands with naturally long, white nails revealed themselves from the darkness, "Trust me, Director…even if he had his smile back…Jurabi would be horrified…"
…
…
…
"...by what his mother has become…"
Jurabi: Hiya! Long story short, this is the interlude that'll lead into the prologue of the next arc. Yes, there's gonna be a short chapter next that'll give you the premise up the upcoming arc, so look forward to that in the next like...few seconds.
And yes, the major bombshell at the end. I know you have a billion questions. Well...those questions will all be answered in due time. Just be ready for the worst case scenario, cause I certainly am not the writer who likes to do the best cases.
Discord Code Link: xMYF8ggTjC