In the grand hall of the Bronze Fortress Guild, Copper Wall stood before his guild master, Lord Bastion Bronzegate, a figure of legendary authority and power within the guild's hierarchy.

"Copper, report on your mission in Ansel."

"The mission in Ansel is progressing as planned…"

Copper spoke for several minutes, updating his guildmaster on all the relevant details.

Bronzegate nodded, his expression serious. "Have you made your report to Ozpin yet?"

"The report is ready for submitting." Copper confirmed.

"Good. I have a meeting with him tomorrow morning and I would like to discuss this with him. I would appreciate it if he was fully appraised of the situation by that time."

"Yes, Lord Bronzegate." Copper paused, hesitating. "However, there's an unexpected development that might interest you."

The guildmaster raised an eyebrow. "Go on."

"During my visit, I encountered a new student at Beacon Academy. His name is Jaune Arc."

The mention of Beacon piqued the guildmaster's interest. "Beacon? What's significant about this student?"

"Jaune Arc possesses abilities that are... extraordinary. Even for a Huntsman in training," Copper explained.

The guildmaster leaned forward, his interest clearly heightened. "Extraordinary in what way?"

"He's a lightning manipulator, but his control and power exceed any typical manifestation of such a semblance," Copper detailed. "He was able to turn his entire body into the element and teleport outside of the private jet we were flying in."

"I see. You think he could make a potential recruit when he graduates?"

Copper hesitated for a moment. "It's too early to say that, but his abilities merit attention. They could be a significant asset."

The guildmaster steepled his fingers, contemplating the information. "Monitor this Jaune Arc. If his abilities are as you say, we will want to get recruit him before anyone else."

Copper nodded. "Understood. I'll keep a close eye on his development."

"Good." the guildmaster stated before frowning. "But a new student you say? I thought initiation was tomorrow?"

"Yes, my lord. But it seems Ozpin wanted him there early. He was there to greet him at the airport."

Bronzegate laughed, the sounds causing the walls to vibrate. Copper felt the power of the man and shuddered.

"That old goat! This is the first I am hearing of this. What is he planning?" Bronzegate smiled at Copper and flexed his immense shoulders. "You did well, Copper. This is more interesting than I thought. Keep me updated."

"Yes, my lord."

"Good, now leave me. I have business I must attend to."


As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm glow over Beacon Academy, Blake Belladonna found herself alone in her temporary dorm room, her thoughts a swirling mix of anticipation and apprehension.

She was grateful for Ozpin's understanding and generosity. Otherwise with no money to her name, she would have been on the streets.

She sat cross-legged on her bed, a book in her hands. She traced her fingers over its worn out pages. It was a book about heroes and legends, a stark contrast to her own life marked by conflict and clandestine operations.

Yet, Blake couldn't help but find solace in these stories. It was one of the few possessions she still had from Menagerie. It had been a birthday present from her parents.

Would they ever forgive her? Did she deserve forgiveness? Her thoughts flashed to Adam. She still missed him, even after everything. She hated that.

She tried to force herself to focus on the book. They were a reminder of the ideals she strived for, a world where justice and equality weren't just distant dreams.

Tonight, however, the words blurred before her eyes as she was preoccupied with thoughts about the impending initiation and the journey that lay ahead at Beacon Academy.

Blake was no stranger to new beginnings, but this was different. Beacon represented a hope, a chance to redefine herself away from the shadows of her past with the White Fang. She had to make this work. She fingered the bow-tie around her ears and wondered if it was a mistake.

She was here to start a new life, and the first thing she would do was to lie? But she couldn't take the ribbon off. Ozpin knew, but no one else. She was afraid, she realised. Afraid of being rejected by the humans.

The weakness made her feel ill.

Setting the book aside, she rose and walked to the window, gazing out at the Academy grounds bathed in the soft twilight. Her gaze was drawn to the sprawling campus of Beacon Academy, a sight both inspiring and daunting.

The tall towers and modern structures stood stark against the encroaching darkness of the evening, representing a world so different from her own. For Blake, each building and each light represented a step away from her past, a stride towards a future she was still trying to fathom.

Her mind drifted to the reason she had come to Beacon - to make a real difference, to fight for a cause that was just and true. She thought about her teammates, whom she would meet tomorrow. Would they understand her? Could she truly work alongside others after being a lone wolf for so long?

Shaking off these doubts, Blake decided to take a walk around the campus. The cool evening air would help clear her head. As she wandered the grounds, she observed groups of students laughing and chatting excitedly about the upcoming initiation. Their carefree demeanour seemed alien to her.

Blake found herself at the edge of the Emerald Forest, its dark expanse looming ominously. She knew it would be a significant part of tomorrow's challenge.

She sat at the forest's edge, taking in the quiet of the night, allowing herself a moment of peace before the chaos of initiation.

After some time, she returned to the dormitory, her resolve strengthened. She would face whatever challenges Beacon threw at her. She would show Adam the error in his ways and they would be together once again. She hadn't abandoned him. She just had to show him that there was another way. She couldn't afford doubt.

As the clock ticked away, Blake knew she needed to prepare for tomorrow. She unpacked her weapon, Gambol Shroud, inspecting and cleaning it meticulously.

Then she cleaned it again.

Her weapon was an extension of herself, a part of her identity.

With her weapon ready, Blake decided to practice a few forms. It would be cramped, but that was part of the challenge. She shed most of her clothing, leaving only her undergarments and top.

After a moments hesitation she also took off the ribbon. There was no one else here. After today she would have to wear it all the time. This would be her final chance to be free.

She moved silently across the room, her movements fluid and precise.

Her semblance, the ability to create shadow clones, was something she had mastered over time. She practiced it now, focusing on control and efficiency. Her concentration was absolute, her movements a silent dance of precision and grace.

She found solace in the rhythm of her training, a welcome distraction from the nervous anticipation of Initiation Day…

The door opened abruptly.

Jaune Arc, unaware he was sharing the room, stepped in, his eyes widening in surprise at the sight before him.

"Whoa! Sorry, I didn't know anyone was here!"

Blake stopped mid-motion, her eyes widening as she wheeled around to confront the intruder.

"But hey, you're a faunus!"Her ears instinctively drooping down as she heard those words. "Yes, I am," she said coolly, her voice tinged with defensiveness.

Jaune, oblivious to her discomfort, stepped further into the room, his expression open and friendly. "That's amazing! I met another faunus today, Velvet. She had bunny ears. Yours are different, more like a cat's, right?"

Her discomfort grew. She wasn't used to such direct comments about her identity.

"What of it?" she snapped, her tone sharper than she intended. She cursed her foolishness in taking the ribbon off.

"I didn't mean anything by it. Just never met a faunus before today. It's new to me, that's all."

She eyed him warily, unsure of his intentions. "Well, now you've met two. Congratulations," she said, her words laced with sarcasm.

Undeterred, Jaune grinned. "Hey, I'm Jaune. Jaune Arc. Nice to meet you. You're really good with those moves. Are you here for Initiation too?"

She sighed, realizing he wasn't going to leave easily. "Blake. Blake Belladonna. Yes, I'm here for Initiation."

Jaune's eyes lit up. "That's great! We might end up on the same team. I can't wait for tomorrow. It's going to be an adventure!"

Blake rolled her eyes. "Sure, an adventure," she muttered. His enthusiasm was too much, too bright. It was grating.

It was then that Jaune paused and with a smirk folded his arms. "Anyway Blake, hurry and put some clothes on. It's not polite to be dressed like that in mixed company."

Realization struck Blake, and she felt a flush of embarrassment. "I don't need you to tell me that," she said sharply, quickly moving to change.

"Don't look!" She demanded through grated teeth as she forced a pair of trousers on.

"Don't flatter yourself!" Jaune laughed as he sat down on one of the two beds in the room.

"This is my room. Leave," she demanded, her voice tense as she dressed hastily.

"It's my room too kitty cat!" Jaune said, annoyed.

"Don't call me that," she warned, her tone low and dangerous.

"…kitty cat?" Jaune said, failing to see the insult.

"Get out. Now," she hissed, her patience snapping.

"Why are you hissing at me?"

Fuelled by anger, Blake lashed out, her fist aimed squarely at his face but instead of the impact she expected, it passed through his body leaving a smear of blue energy.

"What?" She jumped back, quickly reassessing the situation. Was it a hologram? Some kind of projection?

Jaune stood and she tensed.

"Ok we've clearly got off on the wrong foot. Tell me why you are offended." He said and his tone was no longer playful.

"You trivialize my identity. I'm not some pet to be nicknamed," she spat out, her voice thick with resentment.

He looked at her for a few seconds before sitting back on the bed.

"My bad." He admitted. "I won't do it again."

"Just like that?" she questioned, incredulous.

"I said I won't do it again. Thanks for telling me!" He said and then grinned. "If you want to continue your training I wouldn't mind. You're the second most beautiful faunus I've ever seen!"

Blake gaped at him. She wanted to reply but no words came to mind. Jaune lay down and cupped his head with his hands.

"You can't stay here." She insisted. "Find another room."

"Make me." He said. She narrowed her eyes.

"How did you do that before?" She asked, settling on her own bed and watching him warily.

"Do what?"

"Avoid my punch. Why didn't it hit you?"

"Because it was a shitty punch?"

Blake was silent for a moment.

"Why are you here?" She suddenly asked. "Initiation is not until tomorrow."

"Why are you here?" He asked, though he didn't seem very interested in the answer.

Blake narrowed her eyes. "You can't answer a question with another question. I asked first."

"I'm here to find a beautiful faunus girlfriend." Jaune said and winked at her.

"Wh…what?"

"Like you!" He smiled. In truth his thoughts were far away, thinking of home and his family.

"I have no interest in you."

"That's a shame."

"Are you being serious right now?"

"Maybe."

"I've had enough of this." She got up and made her way to the bathroom. Jaune, busy with thoughts of his own, barely noticed.


Jaune woke up with a yawn. It was the crack of dawn and the first slivers of sunlight were just streaming into the room.

"Up you get Blake! It's a big day today!" He threw his pillow at the still sleeping girl and pulled her blanket off.

She sat up, startled awake. Her eyes fixed on him and narrowed in barely concealed anger.

"Why would you do that?"

"Get up!" Jaune laughed. "Unless you want an electric shock? My sisters say it really wakes you up!"

"No, thank you." She said, her voice calm but cold, and calmly got out of bed heading to the bathroom. If Jaune was savvier, he would have realized that Blake was far too composed. With his back turned, he didn't see the girl take his clothes from his bag, stuff it in the sink, and turn the tap on.

Here's a revised version of the dialogue, focusing on making Blake's responses more natural and true to her character:

He did notice the loud splat noise when she threw his soaking clothes on the floor. He looked at it for a second before looking up at her. She raised an eyebrow at him.

"They were already clean," He laughed.

"That wasn't my intention," She said, her tone laced with a mix of annoyance and restraint.

"Were you trying to play with me?"

"I don't play childish games," she replied, her voice cool and measured.

Jaune looked down at the sopping wet clothes. Then he held out his hand and sent a streak of blue lightning towards them. The clothes promptly dried, then caught fire.

"What are you doing?" Blake asked, her voice rising in alarm as she stamped on the clothes.

"Trying to dry them…didn't really work out."

"Are you insane?"

"I'm going to need to borrow your clothes."

"Absolutely not."

But Jaune was already fishing in her bag. She watched him in disbelief, her eyes widening as he pulled out a pair of her undies, some trousers, and a top.

"You can't be serious? Those are mine. Give them back," she demanded, her voice firm yet tinged with incredulity.

"You sabotaged my clothes, Blake. You leave me no choice," he retorted, holding the clothes out of her reach.

Blake stared at him, her expression a mix of frustration and disbelief. It was only when his hand started to crackle blue that she gave in, albeit begrudgingly.

"Those clothes won't even fit you!" She snapped, her frustration evident.

"I'll make do." he smirked.

She gave him a long, assessing look before shaking her head in exasperation and heading to the bathroom.


Blake rubbed her temples.

He's unpredictable, she thought. She couldn't let his erratic behaviour distract her, not today. Today was Initiation, and everything depended on it.

Locking the door behind her, she quickly stripped off her clothing, her mind already focusing on the tasks ahead. This was her chance to prove herself, and she couldn't afford any distractions.

But then, a troubling thought intruded: Jaune knew she was a Faunus.

Would he tell others? The mere possibility threatened to unravel her plans. She needed to ensure her secret remained just that.

Running through her options, she first considered a threat, but dismissed it. He was strong, and she had no leverage over him. A bribe then? No, she had nothing to offer that would interest him.

I'm here to find a beautiful faunus girlfriend.

The memory of his words made her shake her head in frustration. Why am I even considering this? she chided herself. I've just ended things with Adam. This isn't the time for such distractions.

The only viable option seemed to be a direct conversation. She would have to impress upon him the importance of keeping her identity a secret. Yet, even as the hot water of the shower cascaded over her, she couldn't shake the unease that lingered in her thoughts.

"We need to talk." Blake said as she came out of the bathroom after a short shower. She paused and looked around.

Jaune was nowhere to be seen. The room was empty.

Blake stepped out of the room she shared with Jaune, her mind preoccupied. Today was Initiation, and there was much to do, but her first concern was finding Jaune. She needed to ensure her secret as a Faunus stayed safe with him.

As she made her way to the auditorium, the halls of Beacon were buzzing with the nervous energy of new students. Blake moved silently, her gaze observant but distant. The events of the upcoming day weighed heavily on her mind.

In the auditorium, students gathered in clusters, some chatting excitedly, others standing alone, lost in thought. Blake found a spot at the back, her eyes scanning the crowd for Jaune. It was crucial to speak with him before the initiation began.

Her attention was momentarily drawn to an argument near the front. A girl with distinctive white hair, whom Blake recognized as Weiss Schnee, was in a heated discussion with another student Blake didn't know. The girl's voice was laced with frustration, and Weiss's tone was dismissive. Blake watched the interaction with a mix of interest and a deep-seated unease.

Blake knew of the Schnee's. Their reputation, especially in regards to their treatment of the faunus, was notorious. As a former member of the White Fang, Blake had been on the front lines of protests against the Schnee Dust Company and its parent organisation, the White Peak Guild. She had seen the pain and suffering caused by their practices. So, seeing Weiss Schnee now, in person, brought a surge of bitter feelings.

Weiss's posture, her expression, even the tone of her voice – all of it embodied the arrogance and entitlement Blake had come to despise. The Schnee's represented everything she fought against, everything she left behind when she joined Beacon. Weiss stood there, arguing over what seemed like trivial matters, oblivious to the real struggles outside the walls of her privileged life.

Blake's grip tightened on her weapon. She was here at Beacon for a reason – to change things, to fight for those who couldn't fight for themselves. And if that meant dealing with people like Weiss Schnee, so be it.

The argument ended, and Blake pulled her thoughts back to the task at hand. She had to focus on the initiation, but the sight of Weiss had ignited a fire in her.

Professor Ozpin took the stage, and the room fell silent. His speech about the importance of bonds and teamwork resonated with Blake, but her focus was divided. The urgency of her conversation with Jaune hung over her, casting a shadow on her thoughts.

The gathering dispersed, and the students were directed towards the launch pads for initiation. Blake's heart quickened with anticipation. She moved with the crowd, her eyes continuously searching for Jaune amidst the sea of faces.

At the launch pads, Blake stood alone, her thoughts racing. The initiation was not just a test of skill but of trust and alliance. She knew the importance of choosing the right partner, but first, she needed to address the matter of her secret with Jaune.

She just had to hope that he hadn't revealed her secret already.


"Jaune Arc!" Professor Goodwitch called out. He was here somewhere, but she couldn't see him. That was concerning.

Before her the entire array of hopeful candidates were laid before her. There was a nervous energy in the air. That was understandable – they were on the top of a cliff and there were very clearly a number of launch pads visible. The intention must have been clear.

Had the boy run away? It was unthinkable that someone of that power level would be frightened by something so trivial as this.

Really, the only reason he needed to participate was so that he could be part of a team.

"Jaune Arc!" She bellowed one more time. She glanced at Ozpin, who was frowning.

Then, in a swirl of blue energy he appeared. Right by her side. She almost jumped out of her shoes. There were gasps from the students that were staring with wide eyes.

"Arc!" She shouted furiously, angry at her own startlement.

"Yes?" He smirked, but not unkindly. That was perhaps the most frustrating thing about this young man. He was disrespectful and wilful, but he had just enough charm to sap her anger. It was infuriating.

It was then that she noticed what he was wearing.

"My god, Arc! What on Remnant are you wearing? And what happened to you?" Glynda thought she might be dreaming.

The trousers, clearly designed for someone of a slimmer and shorter stature, stretched uncomfortably tight around his legs. The fabric was pulled taut across his thighs and calves, leaving little to the imagination and surely hindering his usual range of movement.

The top, a small and form-fitting piece in its own right, was another story altogether. It clung to Jaune's broader shoulders and chest, the fabric straining at the seams. The sleeves, meant to be full-length, now resembled more of a three-quarter length on his longer arms, riding up awkwardly.

The hem of the top, too short for his torso, left a huge gap above the waistband of the trousers, exposing half of his abdomen.

Jaune just shrugged. "Helps me fight?"

She stared at him for a few seconds but aware of the crowd of students watching she decided to let it go.

"You're late!"

"I'm sorry Professor. I was hungry. I went to the cafeteria but they said food was not being served. So I had to go into the kitchens and…"

"Enough! You've missed the entire explanation. I'll have to repeat myself, which I hate doing."

"It's ok! Port explained everything to me!"

"Professor Port did? When?" She asked in disbelief.

"When we were eating in the kitchen. He makes a mean bacon sandwich I tell you!"

That drew some laughter from the students.

"And where is Professor Port now?"

"Still in the kitchen, I think. He told me I would be late if I didn't hurry."

"Did he." She said though gritted teeth. "That will be all Arc. Get down there."

She gestured to the rest of the students. "I'll repeat my instructions for your benefit."

Weiss Schnee, already engaged in conversation with Pyrrha Nikos, noticed Jaune Arc walking by and quickly reached out to grab his attention.

"Jaune Arc, isn't it?" Weiss began, her tone smooth and rehearsed. "I'm Weiss Schnee. I couldn't help but notice your... unique arrival. Very impressive."

She paused, taking his attire in.

Jaune gave a casual shrug. "Oh, thanks. The blue thing? Yeah, it's just a bit of flair. Makes an entrance, you know?"

Seeing an opportunity, Weiss gestured towards Pyrrha. "And this is Pyrrha Nikos, a champion athlete. I'm sure you've heard of her."

Pyrrha, feeling slightly on the spot, offered Jaune a polite smile. "Hello, Jaune. It's nice to meet you."

Jaune, seemingly oblivious to Pyrrha's fame, tilted his head slightly. "Pyrrha who? Sorry, am I supposed to know you?"

Weiss looked at Jaune in disbelief, clearly expecting him to recognize Pyrrha. Pyrrha, however, seemed pleasantly surprised by his ignorance of her celebrity status. Her smile grew more genuine, and there was a lightness in her tone.

"No, it's quite alright. I find it refreshing, actually. I'm just another student like you. It's nice to meet someone who sees me that way."

Jaune scratched his head, looking mildly amused. "Well, that's cool. I'm still trying to get the hang of all this Huntsman stuff myself."

Before Weiss could continue, trying to steer the conversation towards forming a team, Blake suddenly appeared. With a look of urgency, she grabbed Jaune's arm.

"Jaune, we need to talk. Now."

Caught off guard, Jaune let out a surprised, "Uh, excuse me, ladies," before being pulled away by Blake.

"What is it, Blake?" Jaune asked.

"You haven't told anyone, have you? About me being a Faunus?"

Jaune looked at her for a second before his eyes twinkled with mischief. He gasped and put a hand to his mouth.

"Oh no! Was it supposed to be a secret?"

"Yes!" Blake said, her voice tinged with sudden worry.

"Well, let's see…" He started counting with his fingers. "I told the cafeteria workers, I told Port, I told Weiss, I tol-"

"You told Weiss Schnee?" Her voice was sharp, her fist clenched in barely contained frustration.

"Oh yes! She said you were the cutest faunus she had ever seen."

Blake blinked, then took a step back, her gaze cool and assessing. He was obviously lying.

Jaune blinked back.

"Tell me the truth."

"That you're the fourth most beautiful Faunus I've ever seen?"

"I thought I was the second most beautiful," she replied, her tone laced with dry sarcasm.

"Yes." Jaune smiled. "But this morning I met three more." He blinked owlishly at her. Despite herself, Blake felt the corners of her mouth twitch into a reluctant grin, unable to completely suppress it.

"I need you to keep it a secret. No one can know I'm a Faunus."

"Ok." He agreed, his tone shifting to a more serious note. "I won't tell anyone."

She nodded, letting out a small sigh of relief. That was one less worry on her mind. Now she could focus on initiation.

"It was a nice entrance, by the way."

"Why thank you, pussycat!"

"I told you not to call me that," she said, her glare sharp.

"Did you?"

"Yes, last night."

"I thought you said not to call you 'kitty cat'. I don't remember 'pussycat' being prohibited."

"Well, it is."

"So strict." Jaune laughed. "Well, if we're talking about inappropriate names, I don't feel comfortable with you calling me 'Jaune.'"

"But that's your name."

"I prefer to be called, 'The Lightning Man' or 'The Blue Boss.'"

Blake didn't even dignify that with a response. Instead she looked critically at the way he was clearly ruining her clothes.

"I look good eh?"

"Whatever," Blake said with an eye roll, her tone exuding a mix of annoyance and amusement. But despite her words, she didn't walk away.