~The next day, Arc Mansion – Vale~
There are less than ten days before the start of the Vytal Festival. Everyone was working hard as they wanted to win the tournament. However, Jaune and his friends were relaxing in their dorms, watching TV shows from comedy to drama to tragedies. Laughter, crying, and chatter filled the air as they enjoyed each other's company. The topic of conversation eventually shifted to the upcoming Vytal Festival, a highly anticipated event that had everyone's excitement peaked.
Ruby, perched on the edge of a beanbag, bounced with enthusiasm. "I can't believe the Vytal Festival is almost here!"
Weiss, lounging on a nearby couch, nodded in agreement. "Indeed. It's a time for students from different academies to unite, showcase their skills, and celebrate the unity among the kingdoms."
Nora sprawled out on the floor, a bag of snacks within reach. "And don't forget the food stalls! I heard they will have everything from giant turkey legs to rainbow-flavored ice cream!"
Lei, seated beside Nora, smirked playfully. "Rainbow-flavored ice cream? Sounds like something you'd be all over, Nora."
Nora shot him a mischievous grin. "You know me too well! But! This time, I plan to spread it all over my body and have Jaune lick it and me all over!"
Yang reclined against a wall, smirking as she glanced at Jaune. "And what about you, Jaune? Will you be doing as Nora fantasizes? Or are you ready to show off your newfound skills at the festival?"
Jaune scratched the back of his head, a sheepish smile on his face. "You know, I was thinking. Should I even join the Vytal tournament? It just feels like I'm cheating with all the skills I have."
Pyrrha, sitting beside Jaune, gave him an encouraging smile. "It's not cheating. You earned all those skills by killing monsters."
Jaune grinned appreciatively at Pyrrha, saying, "Thanks, Pyrrha."
As the conversation continued, their excitement for the Vytal Festival was palpable. They discussed the various events, the competitors from other academies, and the opportunity to showcase their talents.
Ruby said, "Hey. I think we are forgetting something."
Jaune said, "Oh, crap! We're going to be late!"
They all scrambled to shower quickly and get dressed in their uniform. After which, Jaune teleported them to their dorms to get their class materials.
~Beacon – Ports Class~
Professor Peter Port stood at the front of the classroom in Beacon Academy, his charismatic presence commanding the students' attention. He wore his characteristic mustache and a twinkle in his eye that hinted at the adventure he was about to take them on. Today's lesson was on legendary Grimm encounters, a subject close to Port's heart.
"Good morning, class!" he boomed, his voice resonating enthusiastically. "Today, we're going to delve into the annals of history and discuss some of the most legendary encounters with Grimm throughout Remnant."
A hand shot up in the front row, belonging to Jaune. "Professor Port, what's the most impressive Grimm encounter you've had?"
Port grinned, clearly pleased by the question. "Ah, Jaune! I've had my fair share of encounters, but there was one time when I faced a colossal Ursa Major. It was the size of a small mountain, and its roars could be heard for miles. It took an entire team of Huntsmen and Huntresses to bring it down."
Another hand went up, this time from Ruby, saying, "Professor, what's the most dangerous type of Grimm?"
Port leaned on his lectern, a serious expression on his face. "An excellent question, Ruby. The most dangerous Grimm are those who possess cunning intelligence, like the Beowolves' Alpha. Their ability to strategize and coordinate attacks can make them formidable opponents."
Yang leaned back in her chair, a playful smirk on her face. "Hey, Professor Port, ever run into a Nevermore?"
Port chuckled heartily. "Ah, the Nevermore! A creature of the skies, its aerial assaults can be quite devastating. I've tangled with a few in my time, but let me tell you, it takes more than brute force to bring one down."
Nora's hand shot up, and her eyes gleamed mischievously. "Have you ever ridden on a Grimm, Professor?"
Port raised an eyebrow, a sly grin forming. "As a matter of fact, I have! During a particularly wild expedition, I rode a Goliath across a chasm. I wouldn't recommend trying it, though—it's not exactly the most stable mode of transportation!"
Pyrrha leaned forward, her expression earnest. "Professor Port, do Grimm have any weaknesses we can exploit?"
Port's eyes glinted with a mixture of pride and seriousness. "Indeed, Pyrrha. While each type of Grimm has vulnerabilities, it's important to remember that teamwork and strategy are your greatest assets. Understanding the Grimm's behaviors and patterns can give you the upper hand."
As the class continued, Port's stories and insights captivated the students (bored them), blending adventure and cautionary tales with lessons in strategy and survival. The exchange of questions and answers fostered an environment of learning that combined experience with academic knowledge, a testament to the unique education Beacon Academy provided.
With each passing minute, the students gained a deeper understanding (sleepiness) of the Grimm that roamed Remnant, arming themselves with weapons and skills and the wisdom that could mean the difference between life and death on the battlefield. As the lesson concluded, Professor Port left his students with a final thought: "Remember, Huntsmen and Huntresses, knowledge is the key to outwitting even the most fearsome Grimm."
~Beacon Cafeteria~
Jaune and his friends gathered around a table, their trays filled with an assortment of food. Excitement and animated conversation filled the air as they discussed the lessons they had just learned from Professor Port's class.
Ruby, her eyes shining with enthusiasm, kicked off the conversation. "Did you guys hear about that time Professor Port rode a Goliath? That's like something out of a crazy adventure story!"
Weiss raised an eyebrow, a hint of skepticism in her tone. "I'm sure he was just embellishing the details for dramatic effect. Though, it did make it more interesting than usual."
Yang laughed, taking a bite of her sandwich. "Knowing Professor Port, he probably rode a Goliath and then fought off a pack of Beowolves with just a toothpick."
Nora chimed in, her eyes wide with excitement. "And did you hear about the Nevermore? It makes sense that a smarter Grimm would be more dangerous."
Pyrrha leaned in, her gaze focused as she shared her insights. "Professor Port's emphasis on teamwork and strategy was crucial. Knowing the Grimm's weaknesses is important, but understanding how to work together effectively is what can really give us an edge."
Lei added her thoughts. "And the importance of knowledge cannot be overstated. Predicting their behaviors and patterns can make all the difference in a battle."
Ruby looked around the table, saying, "So, it looks like our work is cut out for us. But I know we can do it. We've faced tough challenges before, and we're more than capable of handling whatever comes our way with our skills and what we've learned."
Yang grinned, raising her drink in a mock toast. "To facing Grimm, riding Goliaths, and surviving Alpha Grimm!"
Amidst the lively chatter, a hushed silence fell as Professor Glynda Goodwitch entered the room. Her presence alone commanded respect, and students instinctively straightened in their seats. She made her way towards Jaune and his friends, a sense of urgency in her expression.
"Jaune Arc," she called out, her voice carrying with a firm authority that cut through the noise.
Jaune blinked in surprise, exchanging glances with his friends before he stood up. "Uh, yeah? Is something wrong?"
Before he could say more, a deep, reassuring voice resonated from behind them. "Nothing is wrong, Jaune. Please come with me to my office."
Ozpin stood there, a cup of cocoa in his hand and an air of calmness around him. Jaune's friends exchanged curious looks, and Jaune himself could hardly believe his ears. He nodded in response to Ozpin's request, a mixture of curiosity and apprehension in his eyes.
As Jaune followed Ozpin and Glynda out of the cafeteria, his friends' concerned glances stayed with him, his heart racing with questions about what this summons could possibly be about.
~Ozpin's Office~
Jaune entered Headmaster Ozpin's office, his eyes scanning the room. Ozpin gestured to a chair in front of his desk, his gaze calm and contemplative. He said, "Please, have a seat, Jaune. I trust you're wondering why I called you here."
Jaune settled into the chair, his curiosity and a touch of nervousness evident. "Yeah, I can't say I expected a summons from the headmaster."
Ozpin's eyes crinkled with a faint smile. "You've been through quite a journey since arriving at Beacon, right?"
Jaune nodded, his mind briefly wandering to the lessons, friendships, and challenges he had faced. "Yeah, it's been much more than I ever imagined."
Ozpin leaned forward, his gaze steady. "Jaune, I've been watching your progress closely. You've shown dedication, resilience, and an ability to adapt that is truly remarkable."
Jaune's heart raced as he absorbed Ozpin's words, a mixture of surprise and pride welling within him. "Thank you, Professor Ozpin. I've been doing my best to learn and grow."
Ozpin, with a stern look, said, "Jaune, we need to ask you a few questions and a favor in the end. I hope you can answer all our questions."
Jaune looked at Ozpin seriously. "I'll answer depending on the question."
Ozpin nodded in agreement. It was better than nothing. "Do you know where Amber is?"
Jaune replied, "Of course! She is staying at my house here in Vale."
Glynda was surprised when she heard what Jaune said. She did not remember the Arc's having a property in Vale. "The Arc has a property in Vale? Since when?"
Jaune looked at Glynda. "Not long ago."
To keep things going, Ozpin asked the next question. "Are you aware of the Maidens?"
Jaune said, "Yup! Which reminds me, here."
He took out the crystal sphere he made to keep the Maiden's power in place. This shocked Ozpin, who said, "You could extract the Maiden's power and contain it in this crystal ball. How?"
Jaune replied, "I didn't. The power decided to leave on its own. As for containing it, the crystal sphere is an energy container."
Ozpin asked. "I'm intrigued, Jaune. This power would allow you to achieve your dream of being a hero. So, why did you give it to me? Magic is a powerful asset."
Jaune looked at the ceiling and said, "I agree with you. Magic is indeed a powerful asset, but the power of the Maiden is only impressive to the people who do not know of the true capabilities of magic."
This sentence made Ozpin realize something. "Does this mean you know of Magic's true power?"
Jaune smirked and said, "No one in Remnant knows more about magic than me, Ozma."
That's right, Jaune used his [Analyze] skill on Ozpin and saw some interesting titles and abilities.
Ozpin stood up in a panic manner and slammed his hand on the desk. "How do you know that name? Are you working for her?"
Jaune raised an eyebrow. "Her? I do not know who the 'her' you are talking about. As for how I know about your real name, that's because I have a skill that allows me to analyze what I am looking at."
Looking outside the window, Jaune saw a Corvid by a tree watching them. Making his gauntlet appear, he captured the bird and brought it inside.
Ozpin was about to attack Jaune as he was afraid something horrible would happen to Qrow, but something was stopping him from doing so. Looking down on himself, he saw that he was covered in strings.
This entire time, Glynda chose to believe that Jaune would not bring harm to them.
Jaune looked at the bird. "Well, now. Aren't you Ruby's drunkle Qrow? The one that taught her how to wield a scythe?"
Of course, Qrow did not answer. But, as Jaune's eyes shone gold, he was transformed back to his human form.
Qrow looked at Jaune with shock. He was sure he did not transform on his own volition. "Kid, how did you force me to transform?"
Jaune replied. "You are originally human. I merely disrupted the magic keeping you as such. Simple, right?"
Ozpin said, "That is in no way simple. Even from long ago, when magic was abundant in these lands, no one is known to be able to affect other's magic the way you did to Qrow. It was theorized as possible but never put to practice."
Jaune let go of Qrow and Ozpin. "Now, let's start over. No one is hostile to one another. So, let's be friendly and not be too hasty in attacking, okay?"
Ozpin sighed. "My apologies, Jaune. I thought you were with 'her.'"
Jaune asked, "Her? Who is this her you are talking about?"
Ozpin said. "Before I elaborate further, I must ask you: Are you familiar with the legend of the Queen of the Grimm?"
Jaune furrowed his brows, searching his memory for any mention of the term. "Honestly, I don't think I've heard of that legend before."
Ozpin's fingers steepled together as he began to recount the tale. "Long ago, there was a tale passed down through generations—a tale of a powerful and enigmatic entity known as the Queen of the Grimm. According to the legend, the Grimm, as we know them, are a manifestation of darkness and negative emotions. But the Queen is said to be the source, the origin from which all Grimm are born."
Jaune's eyes widened in astonishment. "Wait, so you're saying there's a single entity that creates all the Grimm?"
Ozpin nodded. "The legend suggests that the Queen of the Grimm is a primordial force that thrives on the essence of despair, fear, and negativity. She is said to be at the heart of the Grimm's existence, shaping their nature and guiding their actions."
Jaune's mind whirled with the implications of such a revelation. "If this Queen exists, wouldn't that mean defeating her would put an end to the Grimm?"
Ozpin's expression grew serious. "It's a complex matter, Jaune. The legend paints the Queen as an incredibly powerful being who is beyond comprehension. Whether defeating her would truly eradicate the Grimm or if it would unleash unforeseen consequences is a question that remains unanswered."
Jaune stared at Ozpin and laughed. "You are only telling me half-truths, headmaster. I can tell when you are lying."
Qrow took a swig of his flask. "He is not lying, kid. That's the truth of our world."
Glynda added. "This is something we have been fighting from behind the scenes for a while now."
Jaune said. "I'm not saying that there is no Queen of the Grimm. That part is the truth from what he said. However, she is not the origin. That part was a lie. Also, the part of unleashing unforeseen consequences is a lie."
Qrow and Glynda stared at Ozpin, waiting for him to tell the truth. This caused Ozpin to sigh and hope what he was about to say would not bring them to despair. He had no choice but to tell the truth, since Jaune could discern truth from lie.
As Ozpin told the truth, Glynda and Qrow lost some color in them. However, they were shocked when they heard Jaune speak. He said, "Is that it? If that's so, then it is not as difficult as it seems. I have a weapon that can kill immortals. All we need is her location, and she is done for. If anything, the danger that is coming to Remnant is far more significant than Salem. But before I show you the danger I am talking about, I'll show you what I'm capable of."
With telepathy, Jaune shared his memories with them. They saw him fighting in the Dreamscape and on Orario's dungeon's 100th floor. Of course, Jaune explained that what he showed was from another world he traveled to.
Qrow was shocked. "Kid, is this all true?"
Jaune nodded. "Of course! Why do I need to lie to you?"
Glynda was proud of Jaune. "I can't believe you've gone on such amazing adventures. You've fulfilled one of your dreams."
Jaune blushed and smiled. "Thanks, sis Glyn. But now, it's time I show you what I'm training to face."
He showed them the Beast of the Rift and how it could easily overpower him with only a single hit of its tentacles.
Qrow shouted. "Oum, damn it! We can solve Salem, but now we have to worry about whatever that thing is! Just my luck."
Jaune patted Qrow on the shoulder. "Hey, if you stick around me, your semblance would be useless."
Qrow laughed. He knew Jaune was telling the truth since he used his semblance earlier, but it was not affecting him. If it did, the strings would have failed to contain him. "Since we now have a way to deal with Salem and we don't have to worry about the Fall Maiden, I have time to look for Ruby and Yang's boyfriend and give him a piece of my mind."
Jaune asked. "What do you plan to do with him?"
Qrow shrugged his shoulder and said. "Not much, just scare him a little. For some weird reason, Tai is okay with them dating the same person."
Glynda was holding her laughter. "Oh, Qrow. You're semblance isn't affecting Jaune, but its affecting you badly."
Qrow looked at Glynda. "Huh? What do you mean? Nothing remotely bad luck has happened."
Glynda, laughing out loud, said. "Jaune is the boyfriend you are looking for."
Qrow's face turned pale. He looked at Jaune, who was smiling at him. He fainted on the spot.
