Hello again everyone! My heart swells reading your reviews! I worked hard today and before I knew it I had written almost a ten thousand word chapter. Really threw me for a loop, seeing as I am planning to post a 6k chapter every other day. Disclaimer for yall. This chapter contains mentions and representations of past child neglect/abuse. Nothing grotesque I promise. But I know it can be a trigger for some. Other than that I hope you all enjoy this chapter full of preparation for Jaune's training to start in full swing. Hope to see your thoughts in the reviews!
...
Mornings suck. They are one of the few things that Yang could do nothing about sadly. She always felt helpless to some minor extent when there was something she couldn't fight. Whether it be the grogginess of waking up, or the inevitability of her father, uncle, and sister all aging, forever making the people they are now a memory. Plus, Yang does most of her introspective thinking when a mug of hot joe was in her hand. So mornings typically have a varying degree of emotion tied to them when it comes to her mood.
So yeah, today she has decided mornings suck. She was sitting on the edge of their lodge home's roof. A lower section that went over the implement shed connected to the house. Her and Ruby's bedroom had access to it through one of the windows facing east. To the rising son. And while she had gotten up early today, she didn't feel refreshed. She felt conflicted. She had never been away from home very long in her entire life. But now, in an hour or so, she and Ruby would be leaving for essentially four years in Vale proper.
Her gut told her already that she would miss home. Breakfast with her dad, school every day for six hours at Signal, visiting friends at diners and movie theaters. Not to mention watching stupid reality television with Ruby every night over snacks. But her head told her that she was headed towards excitement, adventure, experience, and glory. The two parts of her warred behind her eyes as they stared over the tips of the trees, waiting to glimpse the first rays of sunlight to edge over the horizon. The gentle breeze of summer was blowing through the copse of woods that their home resided in. Tickling at her fingers and toes as the morning entered its beauty hour.
Dull muffled footsteps could be heard from inside, and Yang idly wondered whether Ruby was having similar thoughts as she moved her suitcase down the stairs. The thuds of plastic wheels on hardwood sounding out through the open window and faintly to Yang's ears. She would ask, but she wouldn't dare seem nervous in front of her little sister. Not on day one of their new beginnings. A stalwart confident older sister. That is what she would be today, and every day till Ruby no longer needed her. No time for nerves when she had a fifteen year old girl's sense of belonging to bolster.
The asphalt sheeting of the roof sanded the bottoms of her feet as she rose to stand. With one glance to the now bright horizon and golden sun peeking through the branches, Yang squeezed back through her window and took a long look at her room. The shared double room was her whole world for many years. And saying goodbye was a little tougher than she would admit to anyone. Her feet guided her to her bedside desk, and her fingers trailed the surface of the wood. The indentations, scrape marks, and pittings telling a story of her. Of her pre-teen days scribbling clothing and motorcycle designs. Of her slamming her school-bag down on the center for four years straight.
Her gaze lingered on to the floor right beneath the corner of her bed. And with a roll of her eyes she gently scooted her bed to the side a couple of inches before finding what she was looking for. A little hole in one of the floorboards. Just big enough for her pinky to slot in and pry the board up. Within was a tiny space, only big enough for a couple personal things she didn't want her dad to find when he came to tidy up periodically. She had mostly cleared it out months ago. Being old enough now that she could leave the house and dispose of evidence in town rather than risk throwing them out in the trash here. But a couple sentimental items remained. Things most teenagers would recognise. A half smoked pack of herbal cigarettes from her first party, her money clip that had risky imagery stenciled on it. A rinky dink flip phone that her friend had given her, before her dad allowed her to have a scroll. And last but not least, a women's fashion magazine.
While not taboo, she just didn't want Ruby to think she was a prissy kind of gal. Even though a part of her knows Rubes would never think of her like that. Yang sighed as she put it all back before replacing the board and scooting her bed back to its original position. With her silent goodbyes over with, Yang steeled herself for the day ahead. Throwing on her leather half jacket over her crop top, and slipping her boots on, Yang gripped the handle of her orange hardcase luggage bag. She gave one more fleeting glance towards her perch outside the window, before throwing a smile on her face and heading down the stairs.
When she stepped down into the living room, she took in the sights. Which was her sister cleaning the extra magazines for Crescent Rose while sat at the kitchen table. Ruby's red suitcase sat beside her feet. And her dad was frying scrambled eggs and turkey while he waited for the rice to get done cooking within the crockpot beside the stove. Yang glanced around for Jaune but he wasn't in sight. So she stepped into the kitchen and took her usual seat across from Ruby.
"Morning Firecracker! Excited for your big day?" Tai asked over his shoulder while flipping the eggs.
"More than excited Pops, I'm ready to go and show them what I got!" Yang exclaimed while holding her fist out for Ruby to bump.
"You think we are gonna see any famous Huntsmen at Beacon? Dad says Huntsman parents like to see their kids off on their first day." Ruby asked with a hint of glee after she fist bumped her big sister.
"I bet we will! Maybe even SpellKnight! I hear his daughter got accepted to Beacon from Vacuo." Yang responded, remembering the online forum news she read recently.
"Pfft. SpellKnight." Tai scoffed with a roll of his eyes, turning to section out breakfast onto four plates. "I ran missions in Vacuo with your Uncle years ago, and David certainly wasn't no knight in shining armor."
"Wait. You know SpellKnight? He's like… Uber famous." Yang asked with a raised eyebrow.
"Hey I was pretty famous for a while too ya know! You're old man used to be known as the…" Tai proudly began a familiar sentence.
"Dragon of Patch" Yang and Ruby recited in unison with mock enthusiasm.
"That's right! And don't you forget it!" Tai laughed playfully, punching Yang's bicep while ruffling Ruby's hair with the opposite hand.
"Where's Jaune?" Ruby pitched in as her dad took his seat at the head of the table.
"Doing chores." Tai said simply, starting to dig into his meal.
Yang glanced over at the heavy portions on the fourth plate, absent its intended guest. Her dad had been a little cagey over the new guy. Jaune Arc. The name played around in her head for a bit, before a gong went off in her mind.
"Arc. Wait as in the Arc line?" Yang asked her father.
"Say what now?" Ruby asked, cocking her head to the side slightly while chewing turkey.
"Yeah." Tai said, shrugging. "Yeah that's the one."
"It's this old family from the Great War, we learned about them in history class this year. A general and several other members of his family fought for Vale and helped establish a bunch of laws. His descendants mostly ran Law Firms and a couple became Huntsmen and Huntresses." Yang said, after seeing Ruby's lost expression.
"So Jaune is some lawyer's son? That's cool." Ruby said.
"My Dad." Jaune's voice cut in politely.
Yang turned her head to the entrance to the kitchen from the living room. Standing halfway in was Jaune, wearing a short-sleeved tan button up, and gray cargo shorts. With how the shirt clung loosely to his frame Yang could only guess that her dad gave him some spare clothes from his closet.
"He started out as a Huntsman, but took over the family business after my Uncle died. My sisters are all studying to be partners in his firm." Jaune explained as he slid into his seat at the table. "Only two of us ever wanted to be anything else." Jaune said, taking his first bite of breakfast. Yang could see a flash of some emotion behind Jaune's innocent words. But she didn't want to pry.
"How is Victor?" Tai asked in an almost subdued manner. His shoulders slumped a bit.
"Dad's good. Get's more vacation time now than ever. With two partners and like a dozen staff he isn't needed at the main office as much anymore." Jaune went on between bites. "Mom isn't slowing down any though. She is still taking missions in northern Vale every other week. Says she's doing a lot to help reclaim lost settlements."
"Old friends of yours, Dad?" Yang asked.
"Victor was three years ahead of us in Beacon. His team was with us when we went on our first broadening assignment. Good head on his shoulders." Tai explained, nodding to Jaune.
"You look just like he did then. But without the goatee." Tai said, smirking. "And Victor would never have that much hair."
"What's wrong with a lot of hair?" Yang and Jaune spoke together.
Ruby giggled and slapped Tai's arm before standing to put her dishes in the sink.
"Nothing nothing!" Tai laughed as he smiled towards Yang. "It's just how ya rock it sometimes is all."
That's it! Yang lurched up and used her fingers to pinch her dad right under his pec and twist. His squirm and baby slaps at her forearm were heaven to her eyes as she stood up victorious to join her sister in doing the dishes.
"Alright alright. Enough clowning. Me and Jaune have a long day ahead of us. So do you two girls. I want you both there early to catch a flight to Vale. Being late on day one is a sure way to make bad impressions. I'll finish the dishes." Tai said standing and turning towards his daughters.
Yang smiled wide before her and Ruby both hugged their dad tightly.
"We will text you when we get to Beacon. Make sure to pick up Zwei from the groomers today. You know he gets lonely without you." Yang said before grabbing her luggage and stopping in the doorway. "Oh and Chopper boy!"
"Oh, me. Yes?" Jaune asked, standing with his empty plate.
"Go easy on my Dad, he might be getting soft in his old age." Yang stated, dragging on the last two words.
"Get outta here before I put my old man sandal wearing foot up your backside!" Tai mockingly threatened. "Love you both. Be careful ok?"
"Love you Dad. Wish us luck!" Yang and Ruby both chirped as they made for the door.
Today is gonna be the day! Yang was sure of it.
…...
Jaune had watched Tai go through several stages of grief all at once the moment Yang and Ruby faded from view through the forest path leading away from the house. The man had held strong while the girls were still here, but the moment they left he migrated to the living room room window with a cup of coffee in hand. As is to treasure every second of his daughters while they were still in view.
Now Jaune watched as Tai sighed, hung his head for a moment, and drank the last of his coffee. Tai clapping his hands together loudly made Jaune jump as the older man turned towards him, purpose in his eyes.
"Before we head to Signal, we are gonna see where you're at. I don't expect you to know much criminal law that relates to Huntsman work, or any first aid. But, we can at least see how much stamina and natural talent for combat you have." Tai explained, walking to the front door.
"Uh, yeah ok!" Jaune said, hoping he sounded more confident than he felt.
They walked out into the clearing, feeling the early morning breeze and the gentle warmth of the sun on their right sides. The birds and squirrels were active and could be heard from the treeline. Jaune stood to the side as Tai looped to the door to the implement shed and yanked it open. Cluttering of boxes and other things being moved could be heard as Tai searched for something. Moments later Tai came back out with a set of boxing flats, and a wooden and straw dummy that had a healthy amount of dust on it.
"I'm not gonna sugar-coat it. Normally the first thing kids learn when beginning their training is some basic martial arts. Flowy and flashy stuff that serves little else than to teach balance, footwork, and timing. We don't have time for flashy and fun. Instead, I'm gonna teach you defense and defense only till I'm confident you won't get hurt on your first mission with Qrow. You will learn balance from making mistakes as I attack you. You will learn footwork the same way. Timing you will learn from this." Tai said, sticking the post of the dummy into the grass before hammering it down with a mallet.
"I-i'm not following." Jaune stated, nervously.
"I want you to copy what I do. I will correct your form as we go. Every day, for one hour minimum, you will be here practicing your basic forms. I will teach you how to punch, and how to check an attack with each limb. Then when you've got those down I'll teach you how to use quick and simple kicks and elbows to force opponents back and create space. Even a simple move can sometimes win you a fight." Tai lectured, his body falling into a tight boxing stance.
Jaune copied as best as he could, but his feet felt wrong and his shoulders felt too stiff. Tai grabbed his arms and pushed them up a couple inches till his fists were level with his nose. Then he explained how to balance your weight evenly when standing still, slightly backwards when moving away, and slightly forwards when advancing. Then Jaune watched how Tai punched the dummy, with fast, straight jabs. Occasionally breaking the combo up with a low forward kick to the post holding the dummy up. Jaune understood that kicking the shin or knee of a person could be effective. He had little sisters, and they made sure when they kicked him under the table that it hurt.
The first hour of his training consisted of Tai teaching him the basic way to hold himself, how to properly move between attacks and retreating. Any mistake resulting in Tai taking a swipe at him with the Boxing flat. Welts were formed on his head, neck, hands, and thighs. But besides that Tai was a generous teacher. He explained very well why things were certain ways, and why certain things were integral to fighting. Jaune punched the dummy hard and heavy, barely making it swivel back and forth as he worked through the brand new attacks he was practicing.
Eventually Tai grunted.
"It's not a battle of power. Every time you overextend yourself with your punches. I could knock you down with one arm. Balance yourself. Punching someone isn't about knocking them out in the first attack. Huntsmen are super-abled and typically in peak health. Once you have your Aura unlocked, an enhanced punch with the power you're putting behind them could kill someone. Think of hitting with only seventy percent of your hundred. Watch." Tai explained, walking over to a nearby tree.
Jaune wiped the sweat from his brow and followed. His scabbed palms and fingers sting with the work he's done.
"One hundred, with my Aura up." Tai said, taking a stance and throwing a punch at the tree.
Splinters of wood exploded out from the impact. The tree had a healthy chunk taken out of it's trunk as Tai drew his hand back. Jaune felt his jaw drop as he watched the display. Then Tai snapped him back into reality when he spoke again.
"Now seventy percent."
A couple pieces of bark flew off, but the wood underneath simply compressed, leaving an indent where Tai's fist struck. Jaune couldn't imagine being stuck by that, it would put him in the hospital, the heavier blow could take his head off.
"Amazing! So this Aura thing, it makes you stronger?" Jaune asked.
"Wait, you don't know about Aura?" Tai said, relaxing his stance and turning to Jaune once more.
"Uh no…" Jaune responded.
"Ok. Ok well then it's a good thing we are going to Signal for the books. There is an entire textbook on Aura theory and observation. Along with a subsection for Semblances." Tai said before doubling back at Jaune's dumb expression. "Semblances are like super powers. From comics. Each person has one, but most people never unlock them till they activate their aura. Rare cases of people with no Aura using semblances have been recorded but there isn't enough science on it to make any hard rulings."
"Oh, so like having super strength or laser vision!" Jaune exclaimed.
"Well, every person with Aura can use it to enhance their bodies. But the natural strength of a person works in tandem with it. I've seen Yang lift boulders when her Semblance is active. Or Ruby jumping from the tops of these trees, only to land like she had stepped down from a curb. As for laser vision, I think you should keep your expectations low." Tai lectured.
"What's your power?" Jaune asked, pointing to Tai and smiling.
Jaune saw a flash of uncertainty on Tai's features before the man spoke his answer.
"I-I uh… I don't have one any more." Tai said in a voice that spoke of loss, but acceptance too. "Semblances are manifestations of an aspect of your soul. Someone who at their core is steadfast and stubborn may get a Semblance that makes their focus in battle better. My dad was a fisherman born and bred before he became a Huntsman, and his Semblance was the ability to create nets made of hard-light energy."
A moment passed, Jaune stayed silent hoping that would provoke more from Tai. And it did.
"My Semblance was that I could turn my focus into rage. I could hit harder, move faster, tank attacks and walk through fire. But I had trouble thinking when I did. I used to believe that any problem in my life could be solved if I hit it hard enough. Ever since I lost Yang and Ruby's mother… I-I think something in me changed. In my core. I haven't been able to draw out my Semblance since. It's well known that Semblances can change slightly, or adapt to a person's personal growth. But I am only one of two known cases where I just can't use mine anymore." Tai finished with his left hand tugging at the collar of his button up.
"Oh. I'm sorry to have…" Jaune began, but the right words just didn't come forward. So he trailed off.
"It's not important right now. Let's get going to Signal. It's about an hour walk from here. But we could make it in twenty five minutes at a good pace." Tai said squatting down to tighten his laces. "You aren't afraid of running are you?"
For the first time Jaune felt very confident. He by no means was an amazing athlete, but he had been in track and field since he was a kid in school. And on account of his tall frame and thin figure he made a great runner. Or so his athletics teacher and coach always told him.
"Not afraid at all. I got this!" Jaune said, limbering up.
…...
He in fact did not have it. Twenty three minutes later they were at the front iron latticed gate of Signal Academy. Jaune felt like dying. His throat and chest burned and his legs were shaking. He was drenched in sweat and his vision was swimming a little. The entire run over had been a downhill disaster. Tai had started out at what Jaune could confidently say was a comfortable pace for him. They even chatted some more about Aura at the start. But then Tai began picking up the pace bit by bit till Jaune had to sprint almost full out the entire time just to stay in sight of the man.
Said man was leaning on the gate with a smirk, barely showing any signs of exhaustion. Besides a little sweat on his brow and under his arms, Jaune could say Tai was otherwise unaffected. They sat in comfortable silence for a good ten minutes before Tai helped Jaune up and started guiding him inside. A quick swipe of an access card later, the gate rolled open, and they were in the yard. Signal was not quite what he imagined. It was a grand building made of stone and shorn granite with large bay windows and intricate detailing on the front walls. But it wasn't any larger than your typical highschool.
Tai led them into a side entrance next to a small parking lot that sat within the confines of the exterior wall. Jaune guessed this was the staff entrance. The hallways were painted a calm off-white, with encouraging posters taped up intermittently down their lengths. A couple sections of school lockers could be seen here and there, pad-locks dangling from their latches. The first room Tai led him to was labeled 'Economics 1-4' by a sign above the door. The name next to the room number was Mr. Xiao Long.
"You teach Economics?" Jaune questioned with surprise.
"Yep. Got my degree after Beacon, studying between missions. The Huntsman Scholarships online paid for almost all of it. Started teaching here around nine years ago when Yang was eight. The pay is pretty average but the insurance is great." Tai said unlocking the door and taking them inside.
Once the lights were on Jaune bore witness to a very average classroom. Hard plastic-top desks with seats attached to the metal frames. Walls with no windows, but plenty of posters about economic mentalities and practices. A set of long wall-mounted book shelves lined the back wall opposite of the teacher's desk and whiteboard. Jaune stepped to his left, towards the bookshelves.
"Does the HQE cover economics?" Jaune asked, staring at the thick textbooks and sample pamphlets.
"No it doesn't. But Signal is a school that not only teaches kids to be Huntsmen, but also the federal standard of education any kid in middle school or highschool is required to learn. We aren't here for books. We are here for this!" Tai said from behind his desk as he pulled something from the cupboards located there.
Jaune walked over and looked at the item that Tai laid out on his desk. It was a laminated series of pages about the thickness of a candy bar. The cover page read Huntsman Qualification Exam Test Index. Jaune smiled and took the document into his hands.
"It has all courses that they test on and what material is required to learn before you are able to pass. We teachers are given an updated version every few years, in case a student gets expelled or their parents take them out of school. That way we are able to give it to them so they might still be able to achieve their dream. All we need to do is go to the library and pick up every book that the document tells us is needed. Then we make a quick stop at the old mall. There is someone there that can help us out by getting you some equipment. Plus, you can't keep wearing my clothes." Tai finished by clapping Jaune on the arm and leading them out of the classroom.
The rest of Jaune's quick visit to Signal was mostly uneventful. They passed by several classrooms that mirrored Tai's, with small differing details. The library was like any other, dull and smelling of old paper. Jaune wanted to see the training rings for combat basics class, but Tai admitted he didn't have access to that outside of teaching hours. So with a stack of books in hand, Jaune and Tai made for the supply room. They grabbed paper, pens and pencils, several folders and a rogue school-bag from the lost and found. With his supplies loaded into the bag Jaune threw it around him and let the shoulder straps hang loose.
They made their way out of the building and past the gate once again. The fatigue from the run starting to fade completely. The sun was now closer to the middle of the sky, and the bustle of the coastal city of Patch could be heard all around. Stores with customers browsing, and breakfast diners getting ready to close doors. Jaune found the abundance of plant life and small parks endearing. None of that was overly common in Vale, but was commonplace here. Soon enough they reached a large complex of interconnected storefronts with a massive parking lot. The 'Patch Place Mall'.
The main lobby area was modern and clean. With sky-lights dotted down the corridor. Clothing stores and the like littered the sides. Tai walked with purpose towards the very end of the northern corridor. They passed several units that had no stores, with their massive metal shudders down and secure. Then, at the very end, a small shop had its lights on and the sign above lit with neon glow.
Merl's Defense Limited Outfitter.
Jaune could tell it had been here a long time, maybe as long as the mall had been open. The wires connecting to the neon sign were faded and had been painted over more than once. Tai smiled wide and stepped inside. The bell above the door dinged quietly as Jaune followed Tai in. The wall behind the counter had several firearms, most of them clearly meant for hunting or target shooting. But a couple were composite or metal bodied, with heavier actions and thicker magazine wells. The counter itself was mostly a glass display case, within were a dozen or so pistols and revolvers. Stacks of ammunition of several varieties could be seen stacked neatly on the bottom shelf of the display.
The shelving units throughout the store and on the side walls were lined with a mixture of hunting aids, tactical gadgets, and equipment. With about every kind of sight you could ask for when purchasing a firearm. Jaune's eyes flew upwards when the door to the back swung open and a burly man in roughly his sixties entered the store proper.
"Well you're a sight for sore ol' eyes! How long has it been since you came in here with little Ruby?" The man spoke in a rich and booming voice. His hairy hand extended out to Tai.
"Couple years I think! How is business Merl?" Tai said, shaking the older man's hand.
"Oh pitiful! If I wasn't getting disability checks from Vale every month I would have had to shut 'er down months ago. That damn sporting complex opened up on the other end and stole all the new customers." Merl said with annoyance littering his tone.
"Sorry to hear, but I have faith. They can't beat the old classics like us!" Tai said with a laugh that joined with Merl's own.
"Well what can I do for you Taiyang? I notice you brought in another youngin. This one yours?" Merl asked with a scandalous eyebrow raised towards Tai.
"No no, he's my new apprentice. Well, officially he will be Qrow's new apprentice. Whenever he decides to respond to my texts and come in." Tai said, grabbing Jaune by the shoulder and pulling him up to stand before the counter.
"Ah, are we gonna do the question dance, or does he know what he needs?" Merl asked, directing his words now to Jaune.
"Uh… Question dance?" Jaune responded, feeling like a fish out of water.
"Alrighty then! You ever had a gun in your hands boy?" Merl asked.
"Yes. I grew up in a small town, we all took Hunter Safety courses." Jaune stated, pulling out his wallet and producing a card with his picture and information.
It was about a year old but still current. Actually it may have ended up being his profession if Ozpin hadn't found him at that bar. It was pretty much the only thing he was qualified to start doing full-time besides retail.
"Good enough for me. Well tell me what you preferred in those courses. Shotguns, rifles, or handguns?" Merl said, starting to unlock the trigger bars holding all the firearms in place on the racks.
"I liked the rifles a lot. But I only ever shot bolt actions in a range. Shotguns are fine I guess, but I always drop the shells. Pistols were ok. Just expensive to keep ammo for. If my parents ever let me, that is." Jaune answered.
"Well you're trainin' to be a damn Huntsman now boy. We eat, sleep, and breathe expensive. Here, try that. See how it feels in the hands, and how the weight rides in your grip." Merl said, turning back and putting a short length rifle on the counter.
Jaune looked it over first. It was a short firearm, at least compared to the hunting rifles he learned on. The barrel being around fifteen inches long, with a full metallic body and a flared magazine well, the grip was textured rubber all around and had firing mode selectors positioned on either side, above the grip. The stock was metallic as well but for the rubber shoulder pad. The stock had a hinge on the side where it met the upper body of the gun. Telling Jaune it could fold forward to make the gun more compact. The front hand rest extended just far enough under the barrel to fit Jaune's left hand.
As he took the rifle into his hands, he shouldered it and swiveled so he wasn't aiming the barrel at Tai or Merl, before raising it to a firing position and aiming at the poster of a deer on the far wall. The sights were bar sights, not peep-hole. Which informed Jaune this wasn't a precision rifle. The weight was centered, not too forward or backward. The grips felt a little rigid in his hands though. Almost like he had too much grip. Lowering the rifle, Jaune opened the action manually by pulling the charging handle at the back of the barrel. He let it ride forward and aimed at the deer once again before slowly squeezing the trigger.
When he felt the click of the internals, signaling a smooth dry-fire, he slowly let out and felt the trigger click back to its original position. Jaune then smiled and set the rifle back on the counter. He eyed the metallic rails that spanned the length of the underside of the barrel beyond the forward grip, and on top of the barrel starting from the rear sight and ending around the beginning of the forward grip.
"Well I can see that the instructors taught you well. How'd ya like it?" Merl asked.
"It's very light. Won't it kick hard?" Jaune asked, applying his limited knowledge of firearm technology.
"It's an automatic rifle kid, it's gonna kick anyway!" Merl chuckled.
Jaune's eyes came down and rested on the fire mode selector, it only had a safe mode, and a semi-auto mode. His question died on his lips as Merl cut him off.
"This one is the sports model. For looks and target shooting only pretty much. I have another that is Huntsman rated in the back. I could also get it in to my Brother in Vale, he runs a mecha-shift detailer. He can take the rifle and get it some hefty upgrades. Expensive, but he does it better than anyone. He designs Warp Gear all the time!" Merl said.
"I'm sorry. What's Warp Gear?" Jaune asked curiously.
"Its brand new tech, makes it to where firearms can be in several pieces, on separate parts of your body. And then you pull up the handle and press a button and they all magnetize to it and assemble ready to fire. Atlas has been trying to make it standard issue for the last couple years for their military. But it's pretty unreasonable to pay for an entire military's worth of guns." Tai explained.
"Woah. That's some spy stuff there!" Jaune stated, amazed.
"Most Huntsmen and Huntresses typically have their weapons highly personalized and made Mecha-shift for convenience. And seeing as they all get a class for it in their prep schools, Warp Gear is rare to see used by Huntsmen. But private contractors and sportsmen love it." Tai said.
"Oh, well do we have the money for that?" Jaune asked.
"Not my money, so might as well spend it well." Tai said smugly. The thought of spending Ozpin's money providing amusement.
"Ok, then yeah we will take it, and send it off to your brother for Warp Gear upgrades." Jaune said happily. His excitement was riding high.
"Done. What about a melee option? Ever held a blade?" Merl asked.
"I have a sword and shield, but I've never really used them." Jaune said, thinking of Crocea Mors.
"Well how about something more easily learned?" Merl asked, reaching under the counter and producing a knife. It was a medium tactical blade. With a ridged black handle, and subtle crossguard. The blade was thick and had a double straight edge. Perfect for both cutting and stabbing. The end of the handle was… hollow?
"This here is the bread and butter of knives my boy! It has a dust-adjusted blade. Watch!" Merl said, grabbing what looked like a shotgun shell with no primer, and slotting it into the hollow handle.
Then, with a quick slam of the handle's end straight into the counter, the blade seemed to warble. Like a mirage on a hot road, before stilling and beginning to glow blue. Small lines of electricity sparked down the blade and danced.
"Awesome! It can be elemental?" Jaune said, staring with wonder.
"Yes it can, mode one is slammin' the knife's handle into your leg or a hard surface. That will keep the exhaust ports closed and funnel the dust in the cartridge into the blade. Giving it the property of the dust you used. Mode two I can't show in the shop. At the base of the blade where it meets the crossguard, there are two exhaust holes on either side of the blade. Put a cartridge in, and push down on the small button at the top of the handle, and the entire load of dust will be ignited at once and funneled out in a cone at whatever you point it to. It only blasts about five feet outward, but can pack a punch or do some real damage." Merl explained as he pushed in on the bottom of the cartridge, and let it release out into his palm.
The unspent lightning dust spilled out of it and onto his hand. Which he dumped into a jar under his counter before tossing the spent cartridge into his pocket. The blade slowly faded till it was back to its inert normal state.
"Get disarmed by an Ursa bearing you down, slam this thing into it and let rip. Point blank it can blow a Grimm's limb off, or its head if you're good." Merl said, placing the knife back on the counter and sliding a sheath with straps up to rest beside it.
"Yes, a million times yes!" Jaune said, staring at the knife of miracles.
"Good pick Merl, this will make training him even easier. Both Qrow and I have skill with knives. And the charges will give him some versatility too. Always a good thing." Tai said, putting a bank slip on the counter. "We are gonna get him both this with a box of each cartridge type, and the rifle with Warp Gear. Plus some tack-gear to hold it all. Is Verna still running the Dust weavery on the other end?" Tai asked as Merl took the bank slip to charge it all later.
"Oh yeah. She raised prices a bit but she's going strong. Make sure he gets the elemental weave. That way he isn't burning his pants off on a misfire." Merl suggested, while coming around the counter to pick up some odds and ends for Jaune.
Jaune was given a waist-belt bandolier for his knife cartridges, which worked by feeding a normal belt through its underside. A two stack magazine pouch that straps to his thigh and connects to said belt, and a triangular satchel that would hang on his back between his shoulder blades. It had two straps, one that looped under his arms and clasped over his ribs, and another that went over his right shoulder and connected to the right of the clasp.
"You should be able to keep your rifle bits in the pouches on the satchel. Then when you click the call button, they will all fly out and over your shoulder to assemble. And the interior will make a good space for a first-aid kit and survival supplies. A set of handcuffs for the occasional criminal would be good as well." Merl said, making him don all the equipment to make sure it all fit.
Tai nodded along and made his own checks. Tugging here and there to make sure it was all snug and wouldn't get torn off in a scuffle.
"Ring us up Merl. We have some clothes to go buy." Tai said, satisfied.
"Sure thing Tai, the rifle will be at your door in three weeks or so. I'll need the boy's I.D to run the background check real quick." Merl said.
Jaune pulled it from his wallet and gave it to Merl, who nodded and made for the back room with it. Tai explained some finer points of equipping for Huntsman work while they waited. Jaune listened intently after he took the gear off and put it all into the plastic bags Merl left on the counter. He was loving his odds more by the minute. With gear like this, a teacher like Tai, and all the books he needed to pass the HQE, he felt like he had a real shot.
"I'm here." A gravelly voice said from the door as the bell went off.
"Finally! You know I texted like ten times!" Tai said loudly, his hands resting on his hips.
"Yeah yeah, whatever. I came, didn't I?" The voice said, as Jaune turned to look at the newcomer.
He was tall, as tall as Jaune. With graying black hair and dark stubble across his angular jaw. His eyes were a light red bordering on pink, and his posture was slouched. The smug grin on his face spoke of confidence and swagger. His button up two tone gray shirt was dapper but practical. His pants were black slacks, ending at the top of black dress shoes. With rings adorning his fingers, and a sideways cross pendant hanging around his neck, he had style in spades.
The man's eyes roamed over Jaune, never once staying on one feature too long. With a sigh the man leaned on the counter after approaching.
"So this is the kid huh? Got a name?" The man asked as he pulled a hip flask from his back pocket and took a swig.
"Jaune Arc. I'm guessing you're the Qrow I was told to meet?" Jaune introduced himself, holding out his hand in greeting.
"Uh-huh… Well glad to see we are so well informed on each other." Qrow said dryly, ignoring the extended hand.
"Qrow. Take this seriously, would you?" Tai sniped, crossing his arms.
"Fine. Guess I gotta listen to the missus." Qrow said to Jaune sarcastically, shaking Jaune's hand and rolling his eyes towards Tai.
"Child." Tai said.
"You'd know, mom!" Qrow fired back.
"So." Jaune interjected. "I'm gonna be with you for training missions, that's what Tai told me anyway."
"Yep. Once we make sure you won't get your head taken off, then sure. But till then we still have to unlock your Aura and get you registered as my apprentice. So don't think you're going anywhere too soon." Qrow said, putting his flask back into his pocket.
"Right. Sorry." Jaune apologized immediately.
"So what kind of training are we starting with?" Qrow asked Tai.
"Oh so now you're listening to me? We started basic stance work this morning. With cardio and introductions to Aura. When we get back to the house you're running him through basic sword training. No sparring till he can get edge alignment down." Tai responded.
"Neato. I can do that." Qrow said, shoving his hands into his pockets.
"We bought him a dust funnel knife, with all the tac-gear he needs. And a Warp Gear rifle is ordered and will be here in a couple weeks. Seeing as your arm cannon isn't exactly a match, I'll be teaching him how to use that properly. He won't be a master of any one weapon when we're done, but if we can make him good enough with all three of his arsenal to get by then he'll have a good chance at the HQE. And on field missions with you." Tai explained.
"Good enough for me." Qrow said, glancing over Jaune again. "Why's he wearing your rags?"
"They are not rags first off. Secondly, he doesn't have extras. Oz delivered him that way." Tai said defensively.
Jaune didn't have the heart to tell them that he left his other clothes at his hotel in his rush to get flown to Tai's house. So he let the two older men continue.
"Sounds like a task for a man with style then!" Qrow said, nudging Jaune and making for the door. "Come on kid, we will meet up with Tai at the house. Tai, be a dear and take all the gear with you would ya?" Qrow said backwards as he opened the door for them.
Jaune could hear a grumble from Tai as he turned to the counter.
"I'll bring your I.D back to the house with me Jaune. When Merl is done checking your history." Tai yelled as they left the store.
"Alright, now that he's not here to be a mosquito, let's have the real talk." Qrow said as they walked.
"O-ok. What's up?" Jaune asked nervously.
"Ozpin sending you by helicopter in the middle of the night with instructions for us to train you… Really didn't expect that. Not when I was on important assignments in Mistral. So he's got some kinda weird convoluted plan that involves you. I know you don't know. He wouldn't tell you if you asked. It's just how he works." Qrow started. "So why don't you tell me what you did that got his attention."
Jaune explained the circumstance behind his sudden appearance to the best of his ability. Including the conversation at the bar and the scroll Ozpin gave him. At the mention of that Qrow held out his hand. Jaune took the scroll from his pocket and placed it in Qrow's palm. He watched as the man opened it and went to the contacts menu. He chuckled as he read it.
"Quickfoot and Dagger huh. That's rich." Qrow said, handing it back. "Let me guess, he told you to call Quickfoot when we started your training, and Dagger when I get you registered as my Apprentice?"
"Yeah. Exactly that actually." Jaune responded. "What's this all about? Covert helicopters, codenamed contacts on a burner scroll. Getting you two veteran Huntsmen to train me. I don't understand. Is Headmaster Ozpin some kind of Spymaster?"
"Let's just say he is exactly that. But not for any government or agency. He takes Huntsmen like myself and others under his wing. Makes them into a force for the good of Remnant. Pilots, ex-military from Atlas, Huntsmen, hell even business owners. We all work behind the scenes against people that would screw up society royally. All with money and connections behind us too. If he wants you trained and connected to us then he must see something real valuable in you. I would dismiss it, but he is rarely wrong." Qrow explained.
"So this is… some kind of top secret thing?" Jaune asked nervously.
"Yeah. Hush hush and all that. So unless you're talking to me, Tai, or one of Ozpin's agents, keep your trap shut about it all." Qrow ordered as they came to a shop at the other end of the mall.
Verna's Clothwork and Dust Weavery.
Qrow smiled and ushered them in the door.
"Qrow Branwen! How delightful!" An old woman's voice rang out as they came up to the counter. Rows of clothing spanned throughout the shop, surrounding them and flanking the counter.
"Verna! It's been a while. You still look not a day over sixty." Qrow complimented, leaning on the counter.
Jaune could see her now, sat at a table behind the counter, feeding a piece of cloth through a sewing machine. She was clearly in her seventies, countering Qrow's comment.
"Oh you flirt! I'm old enough to be your mother. I take it you're here for the young man this time?" Verna said leaving the machine and coming to stand before them.
"Yes I am. He needs something stylish, durable, and elemental woven. No one does it like you." Qrow said, gesturing to his own clothes.
"Yes yes, I know hon. That's why I'm still in business. So classical or modern?" Verna said measuring Jaune with a rolled plastic measuring band.
"Classical, modern is for flash not class." Qrow drawled.
"Couldn't agree more. Hmm." Verna said, finishing her measuring. "He is a pretty standard mens large. I could tailor him some things but you should probably start with the back wall. Everything there has elastic, so any pants that fit the length should do fine. Will he be needing a jacket?"
"No thanks Verna, he'll be decked out in gear so no need." Qrow answered for him.
"No problem then. Bring me whatever you decide on and I'll weave the dust and have it delivered. Tai's place or your usual pick up?" Verna asking, moving back towards her sewing machine.
"Tai's place. I'll be there." Qrow said before guiding Jaune to the back wall.
A long bar with dozens of casual and dress shirts hanging from it spanned from left to right at head level. Underneath it covering the entire wall were cubbies with stacks of pants of all kinds too. Jaune watched as Qrow drew out three sets of black slacks after checking them against Jaune's leg for the right length. Then he pulled out two sets of black leather shoes, with decorative steel banding over the toes. Jaune wanted to jump in and dress himself but Qrow beat him to words.
"Before you object I am not having my apprentice go with me everywhere looking like a green kid. I can't do anything about the kid part, but I can damn well make you look like you belong." Qrow said, laying down the law. "A Huntsman should be instantly recognisable. In case anyone needs to find you for help. Wearing stylish clothes, and decked out with a weapon or two on your person is a sure way to stand out. Same as cops."
"I didn't think of that." Jaune said honestly. "But it makes sense."
"Yup. Now what color do you want the shirt? Black goes with anything so the choice is yours." Qrow said gesturing to the dress shirt assembly.
"Uh…" Jaune said, staring at the abundance of choices in front of him.
He didn't like any of them really. Or at least he didn't like any one in particular. But eventually his eyes landed on a sleeve sticking out towards the end. He reached and grabbed it out. It was a sapphire blue, with black buttons and gold threading. It seemed good enough.
"Nice choice. It goes with your eye color. We'll get three." Qrow said, taking out two more from the side rack. "Reminds me of when I brought Yang here before her first school dance."
"You were the one who brought Yang? Why?" Jaune asked.
"Ah, so you don't know." Qrow said with a smirk. "Yang and Ruby are my nieces. Yang didn't want her dad embarrassing her so she asked me to take her. Turns out she hates dresses. Not enough pockets for her."
"I didn't know you all were related." Jaune said, picking out some socks to go with the shoes.
"Yeah. It's a bit complicated but they're family. Tai too." Qrow said taking half of the clothes up to the counter, while Jaune held the other half.
"Don't get me started on complicated family. I have seven sisters, a lawyer father, and a full time Huntress mother. Complicated doesn't begin to describe it." Jaune laughed.
"Right. I sometimes forget looking at you that you are June's kid." Qrow said, his smirk falling to a tight line.
"You know Mom?" Jaune asked.
"Y-yeah. Yeah I do, did." Qrow said, shrugging.
Jaune knew when someone was deflecting. Living with his family, he essentially got a master class on it.
"I take it you weren't friends." Jaune prodded.
"Your mom and I were classmates. She was a year above me in Beacon. Real monster of a competitor. Powerful skills, with a Semblance to back it all up." Qrow said, memories flashing behind his eyes.
"Oh, I have to ask. What is Mom's power? Huntsman talk was taboo in the house. She never talked about it with us." Jaune was curious to learn what his mother would never teach.
"Well. It's not exactly a combat thing. She uh…" Qrow started, trailing off. "Fuck it, your mom has the ability to influence decisions in others."
Jaune suddenly felt sick. He could feel his skin run cold. His forearm was burning with a passion. And Jaune stared down at it. When his eyes settled on his un-injured arm he felt a memory erupt into his mind.
….
"Jaune. I have told you time and time again I will not train you! This is not up for discussion. I forbid it!" June screamed as Jaune pleaded with his mother.
"Please Mom, I just want to be a hero! Like you and Dad, and Grandpa, and his dad! Why can't you just show me where to start?" Jaune begged.
"Monty damn it boy! Why won't you just listen to me when I speak? Why is it always 'why Mom?' or 'I'm ready Mom I promise!'? Why can't you just trust that I have my reasons? Have I not always done what's right by you? I put food on the table, I put clothes on your back, I give you a bed to sleep in! But yet you argue and fight me at every turn! Why do you not trust me?" June ranted with heated frustration. Her slim face drawn into a snarl. The scars on her cheek and neck glinted under the light from the fireplace.
"I-I just want to make you proud!" Jaune wailed through sobs.
"That's it!" June said, grabbing Jaune by his forearm in a death grip. Her eyes flashed with a faint blue glow. "You will drop this. You will never ask me to train you again. You will forget about trying to get me to send you to Beacon. Your Father will not hear of this conversation from your lips." June commanded before letting go.
Jaune felt compelled. He knew she was right. He should just give up trying to convince her. She wasn't ever going to help him. And Dad wouldn't if she wouldn't either, so why even ask him? He glanced up to see his mother slumped into an armchair, heaving with heavy breaths and one hand clutching her stomach. She looked exhausted.
"Just…Go. Leave me to relax. I've been on the road for weeks." June said in a calm, defeated voice.
Jaune reluctantly left the room, hearing his Mother burst into quiet sobs as he made his way to the den. His anger started to mount. And he looked up to the mantle of the den. Above it was Crocea Mors. The very proof that Jaune and his forefathers were men of action. That he had a duty to uphold the family honor. His stewing rebellious spirit spoke to him at that moment.
'She won't help you. So maybe you should take matters into your own hands.'
A plan concocted itself in his head. And he made for his room to pack a bag, one hand snatching Crocea Mors down as he did. He had a date with destiny.
And he didn't intend to be late.
….
A hand on his shoulder brought Jaune back to reality. His eyes snapped up to meet the gaze of Qrow. Whos own eyes had many heaps of guilt behind them. His expression was dire and saddened. Jaune thought the expression looked horrible on the man.
"I'm sorry you had to find out like this." Qrow said.
"She used it on me! She used it on me, her son!" Jaune choked out, tears forming in his eyes. He angrily wiped them away with the back of his hand.
"I'm sorry Jaune… I didn't think she would… Man. I'm so disappointed." Qrow said, shaking his head and rubbing his own neck. "I get her using it on me or Victor. Even if I don't agree with it. But using it on you is unforgivable."
"I-I don't know what to think…" Jaune said, steeling himself from bawling. "W-what if it wasn't the first time? What if she's been using it on me for years? What if.."
"No no! None of that! Jaune, listen to me." Qrow said tersely, gripping both of Jaune's shoulders with his hands. "You are your own person. Your mind is yours. Your hopes, dreams, and everything that makes you you, are completely out of her control. She can make you forget a comment she made, or make you stop begging for fast food. But she doesn't have the power to change who you are. Or who you choose to be."
It took Jaune several minutes to swallow the realization of his mother using mind altering powers on him. But eventually the tug in his stomach and the burning on his arm faded, and his even breathing returned. Qrow was right. Jaune standing here right now was testament that she couldn't have possibly influenced his heart. He felt the anger drain from him and the determination that landed him here return in its place.
"She's wrong." Jaune said in a strong voice.
"Huh?" Qrow asked.
"She's wrong. I am gonna be a Huntsman. I am gonna be the next great Arc in a line of heroes. And I'm gonna show her that I don't need her to make that happen. No matter what it takes." Jaune stated, like a fact.
Jaune watched a pleased smile creep onto Qrow's face. Their eyes locked in a silent pact.
"I believe you." Qrow said. "They say when the Student is ready, the Master appears… But maybe it's the other way around."
Jaune could feel a sense of hope and pride swell within him.
"I'm gonna train you. I'm gonna help you make that dream a reality, kid. If you are ready for that." Qrow stated.
"I'm here aren't I?" Jaune said, referencing Qrow's comment to Tai earlier.
"Then tonight, we start." The Master spoke.
"Good." The Student replied.