Chapter. 6
Authors Note: Welcome Back First off I'd like to thank everyone who left a review of the previous chapter. Also at the time of posting this, the rewrite of Chapters One and Two should be up if you'd like to give them a read I'd like to know what you think.
After a much-needed shower and a brief respite, the first-year students eagerly made their way back to the ballroom for their official team assignment. The anticipation hung thick in the air, filled with excitement and a hint of nervousness.
In the bustling auditorium, anticipation hung thick in the air as Professor Ozpin concluded his announcement of team CRDNL. The crowd held their breath, eager to learn the fate of the next team.
"Jaune Arc, Nora Valkyrie, Pyrrah Nikos, Li Ren," Ozpin's voice reverberated through the room, "you have chosen the white rook pieces and shall henceforth be known as team Juniper, or JNPR."
Nora couldn't contain her excitement and engulfed Ren in a tight embrace, while Pyrrah's lips curled into a small, knowing smile
Ozpin continued "Led by...Jaune Arc".
"Huh," Jaune stammered, his voice barely audible amidst the uproar of the auditorium. Jack applauded his new friend's appointment to leader though he hoped his combat skill and confidence would improve. Meanwhile, Jaune stood frozen, his eyes wide with disbelief. The weight of the moment sank in, and he could hardly believe his ears.
Ozpin, noticing Jaune's astonishment, approached him with a warm smile. "Congratulations, young man," he said, extending his hand in admiration.
Unable to resist her playful nature, Pyrrah playfully punched Jaune's arm, causing him to lose his balance and tumble to the floor. The auditorium erupted with laughter, a sea of amusement washing over the room.
As team JNPR made their way off the stage, Ozpin's voice resonated once more, calling out the final team. "Ruby Rose, Weiss Schnee, Blake Belladonna, and Yang Xiao Long," he declared, his words hanging in the air, "you have retrieved the white knight pieces and shall henceforth unite as team RWBY, led by Ruby Rose."
Ruby's eyes widened in shock, her mind struggling to process the magnitude of the revelation. The auditorium exploded with applause, a thunderous ovation that Jack couldn't help but join. He clapped and cheered along with the rest of the crowd, swept up in the excitement of the moment.
Yang, unable to contain her pride, dashed over to her younger sister and embraced her tightly. "I'm so proud of you!" she exclaimed, her voice filled with genuine joy and admiration.
As the ceremony came to an end, the bustling crowd had already dispersed from the auditorium.
Amidst the silence, Jack Marston found himself alone...again.
Until he was approached by none other than Professor Goodwitch herself.
"Evening, Mr. Marston," the stern disciplinarian greeted him, her voice cutting through the air. "Please, follow me."
"Yes, ma'am," Jack responded obediently, falling into step beside her. Together, they made their way outside, the cool evening air brushing against their faces they set off towards the headmaster's office, curiosity bubbling within him.
Arriving at Beacon Tower, Goodwitch pressed the elevator key and they stepped inside. As the doors closed, Jack couldn't help but feel a mix of nerves and anticipation. The elevator ascended, each floor passing by with a soft chime until it finally reached its destination.
The doors opened, revealing the familiar clock-themed office of Headmaster Ozpin. Jack couldn't help but marvel at the intricate details, his eyes scanning the room before settling on Ozpin, who sat behind his desk with a small smile.
"Hello, Mr. Marston," Ozpin greeted, his voice calm and composed. "Thank you for being so prompt."
Jack nodded respectfully. "Of course, Sir. Although, Professor Goodwitch didn't exactly leave room for it to be optional."
Goodwitch shot him a glare while Ozpin chuckled softly, his eyes twinkling with amusement. "Indeed, she has a way of making things feel mandatory. But fear not, I'm not here to scold you. In fact, quite the opposite, please take a seat."
Jack approached the headmaster's desk taking one of the chairs in front of it, while Ms. Goodwitch took her place beside Ozpin.
Curiosity piqued, Jack couldn't help but ask the burning question. "If you don't mind me asking, why did you want to see me? You don't seem angry with me."
Ozpin reclined in his chair, deep in thought. "No, I'm not angry at all. In fact, I'm quite pleased with how well you performed during Initiation. Considering you've only had your aura unlocked for a few weeks and are using outdated weapons, you've done remarkably well."
A surge of pride surged through Jack, washing away his initial apprehension. He had anticipated a scolding, but instead, the esteemed headmaster praised his efforts.
Ozpin paused, his gaze fixed on Jack. "However, your reliance on gunpowder may present a challenge in combat class," he remarked, his tone tinged with concern. "Here on Remnant, gunpowder is mainly used for mining and demolitions. Most huntsmen prefer Dust for its elemental effects, despite its slower speed."
Quickly, Jack reached for his journal, hastily jotting down the headmaster's words. Ozpin seemed like the kind of man who believed in sink or swim, so if he considered this information important enough to share, Jack knew he had to take note.
Ozpin took a sip of his coffee, the steam blending with his contemplative thoughts Professor Goodwitch took the opportunity to expand on Ozpin's point. "The students at Beacon heavily rely on their Aura, and gunpowder projectiles, with their higher velocities, pose a challenge to Aura's protection".
The combat teacher continued "We wouldn't want you to accidentally kill one of your fellow students in combat class".
That garnered a wince from Jack. As far as he was concerned he'd done enough killing for a few lifetimes and would only resort to it unless he absolutely had to. At least that's what he hoped. It seemed his father or Arthur couldn't escape killing no matter how hard they tried.
Jack stroked his chin, deep in thought. "So, I suppose I'll have to get my hands on some Dust then," he mused aloud.
A small smile tugged at Ozpin's lips as he leaned back in his chair. "Beacon provides ammunition to its students for both class and missions. I can ensure that you have access to Dust, and we can also arrange for some gunpowder. Ultimately, you're free to use whatever proves most effective against the Grimm."
"But back to the original reason I called you here. I wanted to have a talk about your placement on a team and a few other insignificant matters," Ozpin stated, his voice carrying a hint of mystery.
"You see, you are literally the odd man out, Mr. Marston," Ozpin continued, his eyes fixed on Jack.
"So, does that mean I won't be getting a team?" Jack asked, a mix of exclusion and relief evident in his voice.
"Not exactly. Headmaster Lionheart of Haven Academy and General Ironwood, who also serves as the Headmaster of Atlas Academy, have both informed me about a group of students who are in the same boat as you," Ozpin explained.
Taking a moment to sip his coffee, Ozpin added, "However, it will take some time for everything to sort out with the transfers, dropouts, paperwork, and all that. In the meantime, till we can be certain you will even get your own team, you'll be added to a team as an extra member."
Jack Marston absorbed the headmaster's words, his apprehension bubbling beneath the surface. This was a whole new world for him, he had never attended a regular school let alone what Jack figured to be a form of higher education. Taking a steadying breath, he faced his reality head-on.
"Alright, so which team am I being assigned to?" he asked, trying to sound more confident than he felt.
A mischievous smirk played on Ozpin's lips. "That, my dear boy, is a surprise for later. Rest assured, you'll be placed with a team that shares a certain affinity with you."
Jack furrowed his brow in confusion. "Okay, fair enough. Anything else I need to know?"
Ozpin's gaze bore into Jack's, his curiosity was evident. "Tell me, Jack, how have you been adjusting to your...new surroundings?"
The question caught Jack off guard, his heart skipping a beat. He quickly composed himself, realizing the significance of his answer.
"Sir, there's no easy way to say this, but you do understand that I'm not exactly from around here, right?" he cautiously revealed.
Ozpin's demeanor remained calm and understanding, his gaze fixed on Jack as he leaned forward, steepling his fingers under his chin. "Yes, Mr. Marston, we are well aware that you come from a different world."
Jack's eyes went wide, his jaw nearly hit the floor. His body began to tense as if he were ready to bolt.
"Relax, Mr. Marston. The signs were rather obvious," Ozpin reassured, holding up a hand in a calming gesture. "You appeared in the Emerald Forest without triggering our surveillance cameras or raising any alarms" Ozpin explained as he raised one finger.
Jack's eyes widened as he realized the Academy had advanced technology he couldn't even fathom. To emphasize his point, Ozpin pulled up a recording of the initiation on what seemed like a transparent glass panel.
Ozpin continued, raising a second finger. "Your use of multiple non-mecha shift weapons and your unfamiliarity with dust as ammunition... It's clear you are not accustomed to the ways of Remnant."
A third finger joined the others. "And your complete bewilderment by Remnant's technology, as well as your lack of knowledge about Aura, semblances, and dust."
"So, yes, Mr. Marston, to anyone paying attention, it's rather obvious that you are not 'from here,'" Ozpin concluded.
Jack was speechless, unable to believe that Ozpin had known about his origins all along. But instead of panic or suspicion, the headmaster seemed unfazed, almost as if he had encountered such situations before.
"So, that's it? You don't care that I'm from another world?" Jack asked incredulously, his anxiety increasing.
Ozpin's wise eyes met Jack's, and a small smile danced on his lips. "When you have lived as long as I have, you come across many strange things. I was never suspicious of you, Mr. Marston. My concern lies with whatever or whoever sent you here."
Jack's mind raced with questions, uncertainty plaguing his thoughts. "What now? Should I tell anyone? The team I'm supposed to join? Or the team I could eventually be a part of?"
Ozpin's gaze held a reassuring warmth as he replied, "For now, let us keep this between us. We will figure out the best course of action together, Mr. Marston. You are not alone in this."
Ozpin drained the last drop of coffee, setting the empty cup down with a purposeful clink. He stood up, his presence commanding attention. "Now, Mr. Marston, it's time for you to meet your new team," he declared, his voice carrying an air of authority. He turned to Goodwitch and motioned for her to lead the way. "Ms. Goodwitch, please accompany Mr. Marston."
Goodwitch nodded, her eyes fixed on Jack. "Follow me, Mr. Marston," she instructed, her voice firm yet inviting.
Jack's heart raced with a mix of excitement and uncertainty as he followed Goodwitch. They walked through the corridors of Beacon Academy, a place that felt both familiar and strangely foreign to him. Finally, they reached a dorm room, and Goodwitch knocked on the door. To Jack's surprise, it was Ruby who answered.
"Um... Professor Goodwitch? Jack?" Ruby stammered, her eyes widening in surprise. "What brings you here?"
"Good evening, Ms. Rose," Goodwitch greeted, her tone leaving no room for argument. "May we come in?"
Jack's mind raced with worry. He had a sinking feeling about what was to come. I do not like where this is going Jack thought.
As they entered the room, Ms. Goodwitch cleared her throat, drawing everyone's attention back to her.
"Mr. Marston will be staying with you temporarily until we can arrange for additional students to transfer from other kingdoms. I trust that you will all make the necessary adjustments and treat each other with respect."
Ruby's eyes widened with realization. She looked at Jack, then at the small, cramped space they would now have to share. Her cheeks flushed with embarrassment, and she fumbled for words.
"Um, Ms. Goodwitch, I didn't realize... I mean, I'll have to share a room with... a boy?" Ruby's voice trailed off, her innocence and naivety shining through.
Weiss, who had been standing in the corner, already uncomfortable with the idea of Jack joining their team, interjected with a disapproving tone. "This is preposterous! I cannot believe we have to endure such an inconvenience."
Yang, on the other hand, found the situation amusing. A mischievous grin spread across her face as she looked at Jack, then at Ruby. "Well, Ruby, looks like you'll have to keep an eye on this cowboy. Who knows what kind of trouble he'll get into?"
Blake, who had been silently observing the interaction, remained apathetic. She leaned against the wall, her book held loosely in her hands and merely shrugged. "As long as he doesn't cause any problems, I don't care."
Jack shifted uncomfortably, feeling the tension in the room grow. He had never been in a situation like this before, and the idea of sharing a room with four girls made him uneasy. He glanced at Ruby, who was still blushing, and then at Weiss, who was visibly irritated.
This has to be Ozpin and Goodwitch's sick idea of a joke, fellers back home have been hung for less Jack thought.
"Very well then, I'll leave you two to get acquainted," Goodwitch announced, pushing up her glasses before exiting the room and closing the door behind her.
Ruby, seemingly recovered from her initial embarrassment, was the first to break the silence. "Well, Jack, I suppose we should make some space for your bed."
Yang couldn't resist a mischievous smile. "Or maybe you'd prefer to share a bed with your new boyfriend?" she teased.
Jack's face drained of color at the thought. Ruby was two years younger than him, and they had only just met yesterday. Despite being from the tail end of the Victorian era, he had standards, damn it.
Ruby's face mirrored her crimson hood as she hastily used it to cover her blushing cheeks.
Blake, her eyes barely visible over the top of her book, rolled them with a hint of amusement sparkling within.
Meanwhile, Weiss appeared even more irritated than before, her annoyance palpable in her expression.
Jack pinched the bridge of his nose and groaned "To hell with this I'll
sleep outside".
"Language!" Weiss screeched.
Jack didn't bother with a reply simply turned and left shutting the door behind him. Jack had all he needed for a good night's sleep in his saddle bags.
With quick strides, Jack reached the stables. Beacon's stables were a striking contrast to anything Jack had encountered before. A magnificent structure crafted from white concrete, its grandeur was accentuated by a colossal metal door guarding its entrance. As he pushed open the door, a wave of anticipation washed over him.
Inside, the stables gleamed with pristine white tile floors, reflecting the soft glow of the moonlight streaming through the windows. Jack's heart warmed as he approached Fitz, his loyal companion, gently patting the horse's strong flank. The familiar touch brought a sense of comfort amidst the unfamiliarity of this new world.
Delving into his saddle bags, Jack retrieved his trusty bedroll, a reminder of the rugged life he had left behind. Climbing a sturdy ladder to the loft, he carefully unfurled the bedroll, his hands fumbling with his scroll.
I still ain't used to using this confounded thing Jack thought.
It was crucial to ensure that his alarm was set, guaranteeing he would rise with the sun and be fully prepared for the challenges that awaited him on his first day at Beacon Academy.
Given the day's events sleep had come easy.
Omake
Uncle peered eagerly through the viewing portal of the great beyond, a proud grin spreading across his face as Jack was assigned to a team. And what a team it was - a group of young, attractive women.
"Ha ha! That's my boy, he's just like his old uncle," Uncle chuckled, his voice filled with delight. "He's gonna have himself a grand ol' time with those lovely ladies."
"Shut yer trap, old man. We're lucky we ain't in the hot country, and you're gonna get us kicked outta here," Arthur grumbled, his voice gruff and annoyed.
"Hell, Marston, he's your boy. What's your take on all this?" Arthur asked, turning his attention to John.
With a deep sigh, John Marston glanced at his son, who stood in a small room with four remarkable women. He looked down at the floor, his expression heavy with concern.
"I feel sorry for you, son," he muttered, shaking his head.
But before he could say anything more, a stern female voice interrupted their conversation.
Abigail stepped forward, her eyes blazing with determination. "Jack Marston, if you so much as lay a finger on those girls, I swear I'll haunt you for the rest of your days."
As Jack walked away from team RWBY's dorm room at Beacon, a strange chill ran down his spine, reminiscent of the scoldings he used to receive from his mother. It was a surreal feeling, a warning that he couldn't ignore.
Author's Note: Apologies for the lack of action in this Chapter but I'll fix that next Chapter which if all goes well it should be out earlier than usual.