Hey everyone quick little update here. I forgot to add this warning when I first posted, so my apologies for that. The second half of this chapter contains a stalker situation and I suggest you don't read it or at least skim it if that makes you uncomfortable. Nothing happens in this scene (T rating still) but there is some heavier language and I know just the situation itself can make people uncomfortable. My apologies again -Toast
The ticking of gears above his head comforted Ozpin as he studied the living contradiction sitting before him.
He gives off the vibe of a Hunter, yet he comes proposing a business deal. He's very well-mannered and polite, yet cautious and guarded in my prescience. He chooses a cane as his weapon, yet he has the muscle mass of a swordsman. And then his name...
Ozpin quirked his lips upwards slightly.
How very interesting.
"So, you wish for me to use my power within the Council to grant your company a Dust distribution permit," Ozpin said, keeping his tone neutral.
It wasn't a question.
"If you would be so kind." The man replied.
Ozpin raised an eyebrow at the man.
"And, pray tell, why I should help you with this endeavor?"
The man quietly sighed before taking a sip of the coffee Ozpin had provided.
"What a magnificent blend. I've had coffee from all four corners of Remnant, and I dare say I've never had such a good cup of coffee before. Personal blend?"
Ozpin narrowed his eyes at the obvious change of subject.
"Yes, actually. Now, getting back to the topic at hand, why-"
"And, those gears are made from Atlesian steel correct? The rug was crafted in Vacuo, while the porcelain we're currently drinking out of is Mistralian?"
Ozpin said nothing, keeping his narrowed gaze concentrated on the man wearing a blue coat in front of him.
"I'll take your silence as a 'yes,' then. So, here in this single room, we have products created from all four Kingdoms on Remnant. It's marvelous, isn't it? The fact that technology has progressed so far and so fast in recent years, allowing such a thing to happen."
The man paused his speech to take a drink from his cup.
"That is what I am pursuing, Headmaster. Progress. Advancement. Not just for us, but all of humanity. Oh, and faunuskind too. I'm planning on creating a research division within my company that will create technological marvels that rival Atlas's advancements. It will be the center of the next technological revolution."
Ozpin closed his eyes and listened to the gears spinning above him for a moment before opening them once more.
"So, you wish to use your Dust company as a means to fund this "technological revolution" as you so call it. That's quite a noble goal- but a goal is all it is at this stage. A dream. How can I take the risk of my position- which I have only recently acquired mind you- without some form of evidence to back up your claims? For all I know, you could be conning me into approving a company that will come back to bite me in the future."
The man set down his coffee and hummed.
"Yes, that is true. How can you risk your position without evidence? Well, let me present some."
The man flicked his wrist, and a Dust crystal appeared within his hands.
Ozpin tensed and prepared to grab his cane in case the man used it.
"Woah, Woah calm down. Sorry, about that- shouldn't have been trying to be so dramatic." The man chuckled sheepishly before sobering up.
"This here in my hand is a new type of Dust crystal I have discovered in the Wilds outside of Vale."
Ozpin, still ready to spring into action at a moment's notice, studied the crystal curiously. It certainly didn't look like any Dust crystal he had ever seen before- but that didn't mean it wasn't just a fake.
"This here is what I have dubbed a "Time Crystal." It either speeds up or slows down the reaction times of others. I haven't had the time to do extensive testing on the thing yet, but a close friend of mine who has studied it concludes that is the case."
Ozpin's eyes widened fractionally at the explanation.
If that crystal is real, it's value would be immeasurable.
"This would be the flagship product of Arc Dust once the refinement centers are up and running. Though, don't worry. I plan on keeping the supply in tight control due to the chance of such a thing getting in the wrong hands."
Depending on how the Faunus are treated in the coming years, that wouldn't be a bad idea; especially if they decide to fight again.
"Of course, this will only happen with your willing. So, how about a deal?"
Ozpin's eyebrows rose.
"In return for you graciously allowing my company to acquire that permit, I will provide Dust to you and your school for free."
Ozpin just stared at the man before him.
"You're joking."
"I'm afraid not, Headmaster. See, I understand how important the schools are to the stability of Vale. Without them, Vale would collapse- which is neither profitable for my business nor humanity's continued existence. Dust prices are at an all-time high, and I'm sure it's straining your budget as of now." The man paused as if waiting for Ozpin to refute what he said.
Ozpin continued to stare at the man.
"I take it by your continued silence; I'm correct then. So, I'm also sure you're trying to secure more funding to keep up with the costs of running the school since Dust is taking up so much of your budget."
Well, he's not wrong there.
"That's where I come in. I'll give you as much Dust as I can afford to keep your school running. Heck, I'll extend this same offer to Signal once the company grows some more."
Ozpin's eyes narrowed.
There must be some catch. He wouldn't be a good businessman if he didn't stipulate something.
"Ah, my apologies, I forgot one tiny thing. I can only give you the basic types for free. The rarer ones like Gravity- and Time once it hits the market- will have to be purchased. I just don't have enough to supply all of Beacon and my clients. I hope you understand," Jaune said.
There's the catch, but it's not as bad as it could have been. Still, this is oddly convenient- an Arc I had no idea existed suddenly swoops in to save Beacon from its current financial troubles while all I have to do is exert some of my new found authority. Too convenient. Hmm, maybe it's time I embraced that Professor title I so rarely use- Pop Quiz time.
"Mr. Arc, while I am flattered by your offer and deeply appreciative, I must know one thing. Why are you doing this? This 'technological revolution' as you call it, your company, the free Dust. I look at you and see a fighter- a warrior. Someone who should be fighting on the frontlines as a Defender of Humanity- not a businessman. For someone who screams 'Warrior' to come to me with a business proposition, especially one that is more beneficial for myself, seems awfully suspicious. So, before we go any farther, I need to know one thing- What do you gain from this?"
The man stiffened for just a second before relaxing and looking down at his lap. If Ozpin hadn't been paying attention, he wouldn't have noticed it.
I knew it. He's hiding something.
The man then flicked his wrist and caused the crystal to disappear in the same manner it first came- without a trace.
Ozpin watched curiously as the man collected his thoughts.
Just how did he cause that crystal to disappear? It looked like a semblance, but I can't tell exactly.
The man seemed to have found his words as he lifted his head to meet Ozpin's gaze. What he saw in those blue eyes caused Ozpin to go still.
"I didn't want to talk about this so early, but it seems I have no choice. I made a promise a long ago that I would protect this world with every fiber of my being. I did so at first as a Hunter, and with my friends, saved many lives. But, our luck ran out eventually. Now, I'm here and no longer able to pursue my first dream. This Dust has the potential to save an unprecedented amount of lives, and the company I build around it will make it a reality. It doesn't matter that I can no longer Hunt as I once did- I have a promise to keep. For my friends. For everything we sacrificed. Do you have a problem with that Headmaster?" The man said quietly, almost at a whisper.
Ozpin kept his eyes locked onto the blue ones in front of him.
I see nothing that says he's lying. No hesitation, no second guessing. Just pure determination. For what though? I have no idea.
Ozpin broke eye contact and sighed.
Well, I've accepted riskier propositions before- and none of them with such a determined face such as this one.
"Alright, Mr. Arc. One more question- you said you were a Huntsman before, yes? Are you perhaps related to a Jett Arc that is currently attending my academy?"
Jaune seemed caught off guard by the question.
"Jett Arc, you say? I'm not sure. My father lived in the Wilds, and I never knew my mother. It could be possible, but my father has been dead for years- can't find out much in that regard. Do we look alike?"
How interesting. I wasn't aware of the Arc Family splitting off before. Maybe I should meet with Julius to verify his claims.
"Somewhat. You both have the same hair and eye color, but your body structures are completely different. Jett is somewhat...scrawny. I understand his team is whipping him into shape, but it will be a long while until he's anywhere near your level," Ozpin said.
The tension in the room seemingly vanished as both men shared a chuckle.
"Alright, Mr. Arc. I'll contact the Council and have them approve your permit. We'll discuss the details of the agreement later. I trust your secretary will arrange another meeting?"
Jaune smirked and grabbed his cane before standing up.
"I cannot thank you enough, Headmaster. And yes, I'll get Jasmine to contact your office. Say, you should look into getting a secretary yourself. I can't imagine getting this far without my own." Jaune said.
"Hmm, perhaps once I get more settled in. I'll keep my eyes open, though. I'll see you soon, Mr. Arc." Ozpin said.
"Ha, please Headmaster- call me by my name. It'll make differentiating between myself and Jett easier." Jaune said.
Ozpin smiled.
"Alright then, Jaune- as long as you call me by mine as well. 'Headmaster' is my title, not my given name."
Jaune snorted before walking towards the elevator.
"Sure thing, Ozzy," Jaune said.
Ozpin frowned.
"That's not my name."
Jaune turned around so Ozpin could see the shit-eating grin on his face.
"I know. Catch you around Ozymadius." Jaune said before the elevator closed shut.
Ozpin sighed before rubbing his temples.
Just what have I gotten myself into?
Diam looked towards his target with disgust. The man was in his late forties, had a relatively muscular build and refused to stop following this one woman as she tried to navigate through the bustling crowds. She was somewhat familiar, but he didn't remember her name. Not like it was important right now.
The stalker stayed within eyesight of his target, yet not close enough for her to notice. Unfortunate, since the man seemed entirely out of his element and if it weren't for the obnoxiously large crowds, would have given himself away several times by now. To the woman's credit, she moved at a relatively quick pace and avoided the dark alleys and side streets like the plague. Smart move during this time of year.
Diam scowled as he lost his target momentarily in the crowd- the street lamps and plastic lanterns providing hardly any visible light during the new moon. People had to be able to see the fireworks after all.
Focus, Krim, focus. Leave the analysis for the cops- though if I lose her, she nor the VPD will stand a chance. Damn Hunters.
And Diam could tell he was a Hunter. If his bright green outfit or his steel katana strapped to his side didn't give it away, the sheer confidence in the way he moved did. Diam scowled again.
I knew I shouldn't have left Cortan at home. I just have this shitty knife to protect myself and the girl with. Damn it.
Diam kept his eyes off his target, instead focusing on the people passing by him. People tended to 'sense' when they were being watched- a former superstition made real by the power of Aura and Semblances. Diam had refused to believe in it until it saved his unit from an ambush once. He stopped doubting superstitions after that.
Up ahead of the woman, the street became suddenly blocked off. A parade was being thrown for the Festival, and it just happened to cross their paths. Both the woman and the stalker stopped. The woman seemed hesitant to stay where she was, while the stalker seemed the same. Diam, however, felt relieved.
Alright, since she can't go any farther and the stalker can't approach her in such a public space, I'll have time to-
The woman suddenly moved to a nearby alleyway, and Diam felt himself nearly deflate at the sight. It seems wherever she was going was important enough to brave the dark alleys of Vale. How foolish.
Means I'm going to have to get involved after all. Why can't I just have some peace and quiet even after retiring?
Diam's actions didn't seem to match his thoughts, however, as he drew his knife from the holster hidden within his cargo shorts and prepared for the stalker to move. Predictably, he did. The stalker moved quickly to catch up to the woman who had nearly started running to the alley. Diam was not far behind.
The stalker moved into the alleyway and not ten seconds later; Diam poked his head around the corner. Better to watch and evaluate the situation rather than rushing in guns blazing- it worked well enough in action movies, but in real life it only got good people killed. Despite that, Diam nearly leaped at the man once he saw what was happening.
The woman was pressed up against one of the alley walls, one hand shakily clutching a necklace of some kind. The other was buried in her purse, hand racing as if she was searching for something. The stalker himself was leering at the woman and had a hand rested on the hilt of his katana in a casual stance. The way the woman kept glancing between her stalker and his katana meant she knew what he was after. She was so focused on the man in front of her; she didn't notice Diam as he moved to confront the stalker.
"Hey there, big guy. Mind keeping your hands off the pretty lady there?"
Both the woman and her stalker paused and glanced at Diam. The woman had hope in her teary eyes while the stalker merely scowled and turned to face him fully- a hand still present on the hilt of his katana. Something seemed off with the man though. The way he turned seemed sluggish, and the fact that he kept a lecherous light in his eyes disturbed him. There was something wrong with him. Other than the fact he was stalking someone, of course.
Diam nearly cursed a second later as he realized what it was. It was precisely the moment the stalker started talking.
" Whadya meeaan hands 'offer? I-I-I havn' don nutthing yet." the man said with a slur to his voice.
Gods he's absolutely hammered. This just got so much harder to diffuse peacefully.
"Well, even so, let her be on her way. It looks like she's got somewhere important to be," Diam looked to the woman who hopefully understood his message before turning back to the drunk in front of him. "And it looks like you have had too much to drink. So, why don't you do us a favor and let me walk you to the nearest hotel, and I'll pay for a room while you simmer down, eh?"
The drunk stalker paused and tilted his head. Diam felt some brief hope that the man would take his, admittedly, impulsive offer. Those hopes were crushed when the man shook his head and responded.
"Hmmm, naaaa. How 'bout insteeaaad, ya leeeave us be while we get dowwwn to busineeeeeesss."
The man turned his gaze back to the woman, who had shrunk herself against the wall as the conversation had progressed. The hopeful look in her eyes went back to terrified as the man moved to approach her again.
Well, it seems negotiations have broken down.
Diam looked down at his knife and came to a decision.
He rushed the drunkard and body-tackled him further down the alley. The drunk landed on his back with a hard crunch. He fumbled with the katana, trying to draw the blade besides being in such an awkward position. Diam shut that down quickly though.
He moved his knife under the man's throat.
"Hold still, or this goes straight in your neck."
The drunk paled as he watched the blade with wary eyes and went limp under Diam's grasp. Diam smirked
The idiot can't even put up his Aura he's so drunk. I'm surprised he also realized I was threatening him.
That train of thought quickly smacked Diam upside the head when the air around the man suddenly pulsed.
Diam felt his body hit stone as he was sent flying by the drunk. Somehow. He still hadn't figured out how as he started coughing up blood. He just chalked it up to the one thing that made Hunters such bullshit.
Fucking Semblances.
He groaned before looking back at the drunk. He was slowly starting to stand up. Thankfully, the woman was nowhere to be seen.
Well, at least she made it out alright.
Diam slowly pried himself off the wall he was currently stuck in and dropped unceremoniously to the ground. He glanced at the scroll secured to his waist and groaned again when it confirmed his fears.
The bastard actually has a semblance strong enough to break through my Aura completely. And I didn't bring any boosters with me either. Shit.
He slowly stood up, ignoring the pain he felt in his left arm as it dangled loosely by his side.
Looks dislocated, if not broken. Thank Gods I'm ambidextrous.
He took a shaky breath before focusing on his target.
Alright, I can't let him do something like that again, or I'm toast. I need to take him down quickly.
Diam glanced around the alley, but it was as barren as it was when he entered. Except for the necklace the woman was wearing from before, but he ignored it. She must have dropped it when she fled. He scowled.
Great, so it looks like I've got just the knife. Alright, maybe if I-
He saw something move out of the corner of his eye and braced himself, expecting the man to be charging. He wasn't. He had stood up but was looking around the area with a dazed expression, as if he was searching for something. Before Diam could take advantage of his opponent's confusion, the man suddenly crumpled.
Behind his former opponent, a man stood. Diam squinted, but couldn't see his features since he was silhouetted against the light coming in from the street. Before he could say anything, however, the man vanished. Diam's eyes widened.
What the fu-
His thoughts were cut off when something hard crashed into the side of his head, and he was sent flying. Again. This time, it seemed his assailant didn't want to cause too much damage, because he was sent further down into the alley instead of a nearby wall.
It still hurt like a motherfucker, though.
He landed and bounced a few times before he groaned again.
Tap...
Tap...
Tap...
Diam felt like he had been sent through a washing machine as his world kept spinning.
Tap...
Tap...
He inhaled and exhaled slowly, trying to steady his breathing and keep his head from spinning so much. It worked, sort of.
Tap…
Diam looked upwards at the man who appeared in front of him, and his breath froze. A tall man wearing a blue coat that reached down to his knees was towering over him. A cane was in his right hand as his left hand combed through his golden hair. Blue eyes locked on Diam's red. He nearly fainted from fear when he saw the absolutely murderous expression on the man's face.
The man's words sent chills down Diam's spine as he tried to stay conscious under the pressure of the other man's insane Aura.
"What the fuck did you do to Jasmine?"
He fainted.
I maybe should feel bad for ending this on a cliff-hanger, but this chapter has gone through so many revisions and re-writes I'm done with it. It's also the longest chapter I've posted for this story and my longest chapter in general.
Welcome back to Arc Dust everyone! This chapter was interesting to plan out and like I said above, has gone through many revisions and re-writes and I think I'm satisfied with it. (Finally)
This chapter introduces Diam as well as shows the meeting Jaune was freaking out about the last chapter. Man, I love writing outside perspectives to Jaune- it's so interesting how everyone sees him differently. Speaking of, hope you guys like Diam's entrance to the story- I'm hoping it shows a lot about his character that he doesn't trust the VPD (Vale Police Department) to deal with a stalker and tries to deal with it on his own. With mixed results, as you can see.
Also, Jaune showing up isn't a deus ex machina- well not really anyways. It'll be explained next chapter.
Please Review, Favorite, and Follow if you enjoyed!
See ya next time!