Pyrrha Nikos stood before the elevator leading to the headmaster's office, her heart pounding with unease. The unexpected summons had left her feeling a mix of anxiety and curiosity. As the elevator doors slid open, she took a deep breath and stepped inside, her mind racing with thoughts of what was waiting for her.
The elevator ascended, and Pyrrha couldn't shake the nervous energy that coursed through her veins. She wondered why Professor Ozpin had called her to his office. Was it about her recent performance in combat class being too overbearing, or perhaps something more personal? The uncertainty gnawed at her, and she couldn't help but fidget with the straps of her weapon, Milo, on her back.
The thought of Nora then crossed her mind, and a wave of guilt washed over her. The incident with Cardin had been unfortunate. Not that the bastard didn't deserve it. Nora's actions, was impulsive and had led to consequences that Pyrrha had not anticipated. She was aware of the rumors circulating about her team, and she can't help but think that this meeting might be related to that incident.
The elevator dinged, signaling her arrival at the top floor. As the doors slid open, Pyrrha hesitated for a moment before stepping out.
"Come in," a calm voice called from within. Pyrrha pushed forward and entered the spacious office, her eyes locking onto Professor Ozpin, who sat behind his desk and then to the clockworks inside his office.
"Ms. Nikos," Ozpin greeted her with a nod, his eyes behind the glasses discerning yet unreadable. "Please, have a seat."
Pyrrha took a seat in front of the desk, her hands resting on her lap. The silence hung heavy in the air as Ozpin observed her for a moment before finally speaking. "I've called you here, not because of any recent incident, but I've noticed something concerning about your team dynamics."
A heavy weight settled on Pyrrha's chest. Oh, no. Definitely about her team. She had been worried that her team's struggles would be noticed, and now it seemed her concerns were valid. "I-I... we've been having some difficulties," she admitted, her voice betraying the strain of her emotions.
Ozpin leaned back in his chair, steepling his fingers. "Being a three-person team in Beacon does pose unique challenges. However, I want you to understand that your worth is not solely defined by the expectations placed upon you."
Pyrrha nodded, absorbing his words, but the weight on her shoulders remained heavy. The isolation her team felt, the pressure to live up to her reputation — it all weighed heavily on her. As the conversation continued, Pyrrha couldn't shake the feeling that she was standing at a crossroads, unsure of the path that lay ahead for Team PNR. Ozpin was definitely out to correct them. As if their reputation couldn't get any stranger.
Pyrrha had always found herself grappling with a sense of isolation, despite being surrounded by her teammates. The weight of her reputation as the invincible girl, coupled with the expectations placed on her, had created an invisible barrier between her and her peers at Beacon. Team PNR, as they were informally known, had become more of a reliance on Pyrrha's prowess rather than a balanced collaboration. It was allowed because she was exceptional enough. And she showed it too. Defeating teams single-handedly when she can. Because she was 'invincible girl' that having only two members in her team was 'fair'. It wasn't.
She wasn't here for Beacon to reign at the top. She was here because Vale was far from her home and maybe in here she'd be able to form genuine friendships that would last a lifetime.
But as the days turned into months, Pyrrha's attempts to befriend others outside her team, particularly Ruby Rose, proved challenging. Ruby was friendly, but her constant closeness with her own group of friends made it difficult for Pyrrha to break through their walls. The genuine kindness of Ruby and how well their team worked made Pyrrha felt envious of the rest of Beacon's students.
Ren and Nora, Pyrrha's teammates, had formed a tight bond that was simply impenetrable. Their friendship left Pyrrha feeling like an outsider in her own team. Despite her attempts to connect with them on a deeper level, it was clear Ren and Nora had a dynamic that excluded her. The fear of being perceived as a third wheel hindered Pyrrha from fully engaging with them, creating a sense of loneliness even within her team.
Hell, one evening ago, after a particularly challenging training session, Pyrrha found herself alone in her dorm room, contemplating her situation. The muffled sounds of laughter and friendships from neighboring rooms only intensified her feelings of isolation. She questioned whether she truly understood or if her teammates saw her as nothing more than a skilled warrior. That even they had put her on a pedestal.
Determined to break the cycle, Pyrrha had resolved to confront the walls that separated her from others. She took a more active role in team-building exercises, seeking opportunities to interact with her peers beyond the confines of her team. She engage with Ruby, attending group activities and meals to foster a connection with the girl in red.
Despite the initial challenges, Pyrrha's persistence had yielded results. Slowly, she found form connections with them, though she found it envious how quickly her own team made so little effort in doing so when they started sharing tables.
"Ms. Nikos," Professor Ozpin said, his demeanor calm and perceptive. "Is there something wrong?
"Professor Ozpin, I..." Pyrrha began, her words trailing off as she struggled to express the thoughts that had been weighing on her mind. "I apologize if I seem distracted. It's just that... sometimes, it feels like I'm lost in my world."
Ozpin regarded her with a knowing look, understanding the internal conflicts she grappled with. "It is not uncommon to feel adrift, especially in a place like Beacon. The expectations placed upon you, both by yourself and others, and in your case, can be overwhelming. Take a moment, Ms. Nikos, to find your own path amidst the challenges."
Pyrrha nodded, a sense of relief washing over her. She appreciated the understanding in Ozpin's words.
"Remember," Ozpin continued sagely, "it is fine to seek your own balance and forge connections that go beyond the professional. Beacon is not just a training ground for warriors; it's a place where bonds made, and individuals grow not only as warriors but as people. Which I'm sure is the reason you choose my school instead of Leonardo. You wanted to get away from a place where people recognize you. You want them to see you, not the Invincible girl. So implore patience, Ms. Nikos."
Feeling a weight lifted off her shoulders, Pyrrha offered a sincere smile. "Thank you, Professor. I'll keep that in mind."
"Professor, if I may ask, why did you call me here?" Pyrrha switched topics.
Ozpin regarded her with a measured expression before answering, "Ms. Nikos, something important has come to my attention, something of an exception. Beacon has a new student, a late one, and destiny seems to have played a hand in selecting your team."
Pyrrha's eyes widened with surprise. A new member for her team? The notion felt unexpected, and she couldn't help but wonder about the significance of such an arrangement. Maybe it was a transfer student? An exchange one from Atlas or Shade?
Ozpin continued, his tone taking on a note of solemnity, "This student possesses unique qualities and abilities that I believe will complement your team exceptionally well. It is not a decision made lightly, but I trust it may bring about a positive change."
Pyrrha's mind raced with thoughts. The idea of someone joining their group both intrigued and concerned her. Yet, a spark of hope ignited within her, realizing the possibility of a newfound friendship to be made.
"As a team, you will need to welcome this individual and integrate him. He is behind a semester but Beacon is a place of growth and adaptation, and I believe this addition will prove to be a beneficial development for all of you," Ozpin explained. "And I think you are perfect for handling him. Would you allow it, Ms. Nikos?"
Pyrrha nodded, a mix of emotions swirling within her.
"Mr. Arc, you can come in now," he said to the receiver.
The elevator door opened, revealing the figure of the new student. Pyrrha's gaze shifted toward the entrance, and her breath caught in her throat as her eyes met a handsome young man whose blue eyes gripped her.
The new student stood tall, with slightly long blonde and rugged, unkempt hair with strands of hair that had faded to white, adding a unique touch to his hairdo. He wore a hoodie under a pristine white chest plate that covered his upper abdomen. The chest plate and bracers adorned with gold trim. A red sash similar to hers. Two shoulder pads completed the ensemble and completing his outfit was dark navy jeans and dark brown boots.
Pyrrha found herself struck by his appearance, her heart quickening in response. Well-built, height and physique adding to the aura of strength he exuded. As the new student stepped further into the room, Pyrrha couldn't help but feel a magnetic pull, as if destiny itself had intervened to introduce someone to her team, who was lacking another member.
Professor Ozpin introduced the newcomer, "Pyrrha Nikos, meet your new teammate. This is Jaune Arc. Jaune, this is Pyrrha Nikos, team leader of Team PNR."
Jaune's eyes met Pyrrha's, and there was a depth to his gaze. The air in the room seemed charged with an unspoken energy, and for a moment, time itself felt suspended.
Pyrrha, normally composed, found herself momentarily at a loss for words. As they exchanged greetings, Pyrrha couldn't help but wonder how this recent addition, Jaune Arc, would change her team.
As Pyrrha stood there, still captivated. Professor Ozpin's voice broke the momentary silence. "Mr. Arc will join Team PNR from this moment forward and so you shall be called henceforth as Team PRJN. Hmm… Team Prune. Yes, that would do."
Jaune Arc, the new addition to her team, had an air of patience about him that contrasted with his striking appearance as he listened to Ozpin. Still, Pyrrha couldn't help but notice the somewhat bland and somewhat hostile gaze in Jaune Arc's eyes as he looked at the Headmaster barely prevented by his self-control.
"Mr. Arc, you must be familiar with Ms. Nikos, a renowned student here at Beacon."
Oh, here we go again. She prepared herself.
But Jaune's response was unexpected. He shook his head slowly, the faint smile on his lips revealing a trace of ambiguity. "Not really. I haven't seen her... for a long time. I mean, I am not familiar with her."
Pyrrha furrowed her brow in confusion.
Ozpin's expression remained unreadable as he probed further, "Is that so? Ms. Nikos is a highly skilled warrior, quite well-known for her wins."
Jaune's gaze lingered for a moment, and then he seemed to grasp at a memory that remained just out of reach. A small smile played on his lips as if he had finally stumbled upon a piece of a puzzle that he needed. "Ah," he said, "from the cereal box, right? Was it Pumpkin's Pete?"
"Uh, yes?" Pyrrha's confusion deepened. The reference to a cereal box left her momentarily speechless.
Ozpin continued to emphasize Pyrrha's achievements. "Ms. Nikos is not just a skilled warrior, Mr. Arc. She is the Mistral champion, renowned for her prowess in combat. She had defended her title as champion three times in a row, becoming the first combat student to win four straight regional tournaments."
Jaune, however, maintained a nonchalant demeanor, seemingly unaffected by the impressive title bestowed upon Pyrrha. He shrugged casually and replied, "Well, I don't really know much about her. Haven't kept up with the details, I guess."
There was a genuine lack of recognition in Jaune's tone, and Pyrrha couldn't shake the bewilderment that settled within her. She had grown accustomed to a level of recognition because of her achievements, but Jaune's apparent unfamiliarity left her feeling an unexpected sense of vulnerability… and joy. Someone who didn't know her as a champion. She almost grinned, but composed herself.
Ozpin regarded Jaune with a discerning gaze, but the headmaster chose not to press the matter further. Instead, he simply nodded, acknowledging Jaune's response. "Very well. Team PRJN, your journey at Beacon begins now. I trust you will find ways to work together and strengthen your bonds… and Mr. Arc. I thank you for your choice."
Jaune looked at Ozpin with half-lidded eyes and with bared teeth. "Not really my choice, Headmaster. But as you long you keep your promise, then I'd play student. After all, the attorney you provided me were rather insistent that I look your way too...and implored me many reasons to take your side."
"It's simply compromise, Mr. Arc. Your actions are in the right place. But we cannot let such incidents, although unfortunate, to bring about fear at a time of unity."
Jaune was unimpressed. "Just say it straight to my face that you'd already sweet-talked them into a case against me, Professor. I am not fighting a battle I have little chance to win. And can you not lie to my face, of course respectfully, Sir."
Headmaster Ozpin simply smiled. "You two may go now."
As they exit Ozpin's office, Pyrrha help but wonder what's up with them. Other than that she couldn't shake the lingering questions about Jaune's apparent lack of knowledge about her and she couldn't resist the urge to seek clarification first.
"Jaune," she began, "are you sure you haven't heard of me before? It may sound like I'm bragging about this, but I am quite famous"
Jaune met her gaze with sincerity. Since she called him by the first name, he did too as well. "Pyrrha, I've been in a place where I didn't hear what's happening in Remnant. A place where I had to stay alert and on the prowl. To me, it feels like decades ago since I remember anything about what's happening around Remnant," he explained, his voice tinged with a subtle hint of nostalgia.
Pyrrha furrowed her brow. A place where he didn't get news of what was happening in Remnant? It must be something remote.
The elevator continued its descent, the silence between them punctuated only by the soft hum of machinery.
"So… you're the leader, huh.."
"Yeah, I'm the team leader," Pyrrha responded with a small smile, trying to maintain an air of confidence. Does he have something to say about that? She took a quick look, but Jaune remained unfazed.
As they walked through the Beacon halls, Pyrrha attempted to provide Jaune with more context about the rest of their team. "Ren and Nora, my other teammates, are really close. They've been friends for a long time. Ren is the quiet one, while Nora is energetic…"
Pyrrha's attempt at explanation waned as they passed by other students in the hallways. She noticed glances and whispers from those around them, eyes lingering on her as she walked with Jaune. The celebrity smile she wore seemed to catch Jaune's attention, and he couldn't help but wonder about the subtle disconnect between her words and her expression.
"Is everything alright, Pyrrha?" Jaune inquired, his concern clear in his tone.
Pyrrha hesitated for a moment before responding, "Oh, yes, everything's fine. It's just... well, being known as the Mistral champion and all, there's a certain expectation. It's something I've learned to navigate, but sometimes it feels like people see me more as a champion than a person."
Pyrrha couldn't help but feel the weight of scrutiny from those around them. The students' curious glances and hushed conversations seemed to intensify, leaving her to wonder if Jaune's presence had somehow magnified the attention of her. Pyrrha Nikos, hanging out with a student? It would make some wonder about who Jaune is.
Jaune observed Pyrrha's struggle, sensing the internal conflict that accompanied her prestigious reputation. She also felt a strange mixture of vulnerability and relief as she shared her thoughts with Jaune. His attentive listening and occasional warm gazes didn't go unnoticed, and she appreciated it.
As they continued to walk through the Beacon halls, Jaune's subtle glances and the warmth in his eyes created a sense of comfort for Pyrrha. She couldn't quite put her finger on it, but it felt as if Jaune saw beyond the façade of the invincible girl. That despite all the titles he had heard and how famed she was. He only saw her. Perceptive enough to understand what bothers her too.
She was unsure of why she had opened up to Jaune in such a manner. But Pyrrha embraced the moment. Maybe she really was just desperate for friendship and here was a new one who didn't care or simply didn't know. It didn't matter to her. She wasn't missing this chance.
"Sorry if that was a bit much," she said with a small, genuine smile. "We've just met and I'm already nagging you."
"No need to apologize, I can see you're stressed out too," Jaune responded, his own smile matching hers. "We're a team now, right? It's important to understand each other and it's not only you who's currently stressed out."
Pyrrha nodded, grateful for Jaune's understanding as she looked up at him. The weight of expectations and the scrutiny of others momentarily lighten.
As the duo entered their dorm, Pyrrha called out to the rest of the team, who were thankfully still in. "Nora, Ren, we have a new member. Meet Jaune Arc."
Nora, with her usual high spirits, immediately bounded forward. "Hey there! I'm Nora Valkyrie, and this is Lie Ren." She gestured to Ren, who offered a polite nod.
Jaune returned the greetings with a friendly smile, and Pyrrha couldn't help but feel a sense of relief at seeing them share friendly glances.
"Oh, and Jaune," Pyrrha added with a playful glint in her eye, "meet your new teammates—Team PRUNE. It's pronounced 'prune,' with the 'J' being silent."
Nora burst into laughter at the team name, and Ren cracked a small smile. Jaune, while raising an eyebrow, seemed to take the peculiar name in stride.
"Team Prune, huh? That's... new," Jaune remarked, his tone lighthearted.
Pyrrha chuckled, "It's memorable, at least. Now that we're all here, let's focus on getting to know each other better." Pyrrha took the lead in the introductions, standing with a poised demeanor. "I'm Pyrrha Nikos, the team leader. I come from Mistral It's a pleasure to have all of you on the team."
Nora, brimming with energy, followed suit. "Hey, hey! Nora Valkyrie here! I'm from Mistral too, just like Pyrrha. Lightning-fast reflexes and strength and a love for pancakes, that's me!"
Ren, the quiet and composed member of the team, nodded before introducing himself. "Lie Ren. I come from Kuroyuri. It's a pleasure to be a part of this team."
Finally, Jaune stepped forward, his gaze meeting the eyes of his new teammates. "Jaune Arc. I'm... well, I'm still figuring things out. But I'm here, and I'm ready to be a part of Team Prune, too."
As Pyrrha added context to why they have a new team member. Nora's eyes widened with curiosity, and she couldn't hold back her question. "Hey, Jaune, why did you come to Beacon so late? Did you miss the first part of initiation or something? Got lost?"
Jaune hesitated for a moment, his gaze drifting as if he was revisiting a memory. "No, I actually wasn't planning to attend Beacon at all," he admitted. "I was volunteering in odd jobs, you know, helping out in hospitals, orphanages. It was... something I felt I had to do."
The room fell into a thoughtful silence as Jaune's words hung in the air. Ren and Nora exchanged glances. The mood immediately went somber.
Jaune seeing their reactions, continued, sensing that he needed to explain. "There was an accident. Ozpin told me I had a choice. Either go to prison for what they called an 'unsanctioned' rescue of the kids I was looking out for, or come to Beacon. It wasn't much of a choice, really."
Pyrrha, Nora, and Ren exchanged glances, their initial curiosity giving way to a somber understanding. The circumstances that led him to Beacon were quite something else indeed.
Nora broke the silence, her voice softer. "Jaune… that's pretty intense. "
Jaune nodded, his eyes hesitant. "Yeah, It was."
"So Ozpin offered you a choice like that? That's pretty heavy stuff."
Jaune took a deep breath, as if bracing himself to share more of his story. "Yeah, it was unexpected. Before this I was happy volunteering in places like hospitals and orphanages, trying to help, you know? Then a few days ago, there was an accident, and I had to act without proper sanction. But Vale's authorities had me locked up. Ozpin then came in alongside his friends and people from Atlas to threw a lot of legal bullshits against me that made the case impossible to win without the right funds. I think no matter what I do. They will find a way to implicate me. Hell, they even had me connected to the Xiong Family just by drinking at a club they owned. They'll twist what I did and the headmaster," Jaune said with disgust. "Professor Ozpin gave me a choice. Go to prison or come to Beacon. It was not a subtle threat mind you."
"Wait, but you saved people?" Ren asked. "That should have count for something."
"I did... but unfortunately they also wanted to avoid a diplomatic incident with Atlas. Like I said, I didn't have only the Headmaster barking at my ears, but also suits from Atlas who implored that I don't make a testament of how their stolen tech harmed a lot of people in Vale for unity's sake. The Council... the one who sponsored the trip for the kids in the orphanage had already smeared their reputation with what happened in the Docks and with the kids they were supposed to use for PR almost dying while under their care they are even more willing to agree with Atlas to keep it silent from the public and keep me under the Headmaster's watch to prevent me blabbering. I had to make a compromise. Either I drag the kids to the whole legal bullshit and remind them of the traumatic event they just went through and try my damn best to win an unwinnable case or cave in for the sake of the kids who could use the mental care.. and more funds for a better future for them."
Nora leaned forward, her eyes filled with empathy. "So you agreed to join Beacon... because of the kids?"
"Yes."
"And if they haven't threatened that on you?"
"I'd run away. I honestly do not care if I'd have to run away to another Kingdom... But... with the kids involved in this matter... I can't run away and just leave them behind... I am not like them... I won't do what they did to me... ah, forgive me."
Ren exchanged looks with Nora. "Are the kids okay?"
"They are physically," Jaune said. "But mentally they aren't doing well. They almost died. Too afraid to go to school. To afraid to step out of the street. I can handle it if I'm all alone... but not when they are around... and being used against me."
"That's... awful," Pyrrha joined her hands at the somber reality of what her new teammate was here for.
"It is. The Matron of the orphanage was willing to fight to the bitter end with me. Said that I did nothing wrong and she'd fight tooth and nail if they insist on forcing me to be here out of my own wishes… but it'll just make things terrible for them. I've involved myself in them and besides what's the use of being stubborn and righteous convictions when the who one who'd suffer will be kids that will get drag to that mess? If I caved in then they get a better treatment and if I don't then I'd just be just another brave idiot with a resolve who'd have to go against powerful people who were casual enough to threaten the kids who were suppose to be the damn victim. There were others who made a mess too... people who were involved but they have people who'd protect them... powerful people who will cover for them. Like the SDC's heir- What I mean to say is.. I have nothing. Hell, I only have an apartment in Vale. How am I supposed to fight that? They preached that it's for the sake of unity and peace... but all they want in the first place is to bury it before it becomes a problem especially with the festival coming along... and as of late I have other reasons as to why I'm here."
"That doesn't make sense!" Nora said. "You helped people! You saved kids! They should be rewarding you! Not threatening you!"
"it's a complicated affair. They didn't want to bring these issues with the festival coming soon. Ozpin offered the solution he thought best with self-interest in mind," he snarled. "But that's the gist of it. Anyway, can we switch topic? Sorry for going off like that."
"It's alright," Ren said. "It seems that Headmaster Ozpin isn't as laid-back as we thought he was."
Nora shuddered. "Sooo, how about we talk about our semblances?
Nora went first, trying to lighten up the mood by cheerfully explaining her semblance, "Oh, I've got the best semblance ever! I can absorb and channel electrical energy and boost my strength!"
Ren added with a small smile, "And I can mask emotions, making us less noticeable to Grimm."
Pyrrha, encouraged by the openness of her teammates, decided to share as well. "My semblance is polarity. I can control metal objects. It has a significant advantage in combat."
All eyes turned to Jaune, waiting for him to reveal his semblance. He hesitated for a moment before explaining, "My semblance is... well, it's interesting. I can amplify the aura of others and mine as well. It helps strengthen abilities."
Jaune's melancholic eyes took on a glimmer of sadness as he spoke about his semblance. "As long as you're next to me... I can boost your strengths, make you ten times powerful, and if you take a critical hit, then I can bring you back... as long as you have breath in your body."
Nora went wide-eyed. "But wouldn't that make us Invincible, Jaune-Jaune?"
"Invincible might be a bit much," Jaune replied, a genuine smile playing on his lips. "But we'll definitely be a force to be reckoned with."
Ren, ever thought, strayed the topic farther.. "Jaune, you don't seem to know Pyrrha very well, yet you're quite comfortable with each other. What's the story there?"
Jaune's expression turned contemplative, and he admitted, "I really wasn't familiar with how things were in Remnant. It felt like decades since I was back in civilization. It kept me away from the usual news and events. I guess I missed out on some happenings, including Pyrrha's reputation."
Ren nodded in understanding. "Well, we're a team now."
Nora, ever the burst of energy, celebrated with enthusiastic claps. "Team PRUNE is now on the house! Woo-hoo!"
Jaune chuckled, appreciating Nora's lighthearted spirit. "I might have come here with doubts and hesitation, but from the bottom of my heart. I will try my best to be a decent teammate.."
As the rowdy introduction and conversations quieted down, Pyrrha went to her favorite spot on the rooftop of Beacon. To her surprise, she discovered Jaune had already occupied the space in brooding silence.
Coughing softly to announce her presence, Pyrrha gingerly approached Jaune and joined him on the rooftop. "So, Jaune, what brings you up here?" she inquired, her voice a soft murmur against the tranquil night. Before here were the green glows on the spires of Beacon Academy.
Jaune turned his gaze toward her, the moonlight casting a subtle glow on his features. His response was calm, accompanied by a charming smile that seemed to be reserved just for her. "Just finding peace... in the quiet," he shared, his words carrying a sense of calmness that echoed the calm surroundings.
Curiosity still lingering, Pyrrha turned her gaze towards Jaune and gently asked, "Why didn't you come to Beacon? I mean you told me that you did it for the kids... but other than that?"
Jaune responded with a smile, his eyes carrying a depth of contemplation. "I simply didn't want to. I was avoiding it, to be honest. Resisting the pull. But it seems like fate pulled me back here screaming."
"Oh," Pyrrha uttered.
Jaune shook his head and looked at her with a thoughtful expression. "It's not that I don't want to be here. It's just... well, do you believe in destiny?"
Pyrrha pondered the question for a moment before replying, "Yes, I do. It feels like it was my calling to be a huntress. I've always felt destined to become a Huntress - to protect the world. Does that sound strange to you?"
Their conversation hung in the quiet night air with a pause. Jaune then let out a rather sad chuckle, his eyes reflecting a mixture of emotions. "So you believe in destiny, Pyrrha. Not at all. It's not strange. But what if that destiny is to perish? Would you still do it? What if your destiny leads you to a place where there is only madness? Would you still follow destiny even if the odds are against you?"
Pyrrha hesitated, contemplating the weight of Jaune's question. After a thoughtful pause, she responded, "Yes, if I must. I will try."
Jaune looked away, his voice carrying a tinge of pain as he remarked, "I see... then it's clear that this was the right move..." he muttered. "Well, let's hope that if something troublesome happens, you won't throw us into a rocket-propelled locker and go in alone to face your destiny."
Pyrrha blinked in surprise before realizing Jaune was attempting to lighten the mood with a joke. "That's... silly," she said, trying to suppress a smile. "I don't see why would anyone do something so cruel if it's a friend. I think I'd understand if it meant to keep them safe… but it's ridiculous."
"Yeah, it's ridiculous," Jaune replied. He looked away, voice cracking. "So damn ridiculous."
Did she say something wrong?
With a heavy sigh, Jaune said, "Well, guess I'm glad I have a leader like you leading us."
There was a complex sincerity in his tone that resonated with gratitude, which made Pyrrha feel somewhat pressured.
But Jaune, sensing it, then lightened the mood with a joke, "You must be glad now that you didn't have to third-wheel Nora and Ren, huh?"
For the first time since their conversation began, Pyrrha, though scandalized by how clearly he saw through her, genuinely smiled and replied, "Yes, I am glad."
He really was something, she thought, her gaze drifting towards Jaune, who was staring up at the sky. Pyrrha admired his sincerity a and his willingness to give in if it meant caving in to other's demands.
If today were an audition for the Pyrrha Nikos Approval Contest, he'd be getting a perfect score. Pyrrha couldn't deny that her new teammate had caught her attention.
Glynda Goodwitch strode purposefully into Headmaster Ozpin's office at Beacon Academy, her expression stern. She found Ozpin at his desk, sipping from his ever-present coffee mug. He looked up with a knowing glint in his eye as she entered.
"Glynda, to what do I owe the pleasure?" Ozpin inquired, a slight smile playing on his lips.
"I took care of the problem with the girls as instructed. Not that it matters when the SDC was already practically threatening us to bury us if we didn't comply either way. Especially with the recent loss of their shipments. And poking Menagerie right now will just infuriate the agitated members of the White Fang and if our informants are correct, then I'd rather not have Belladonna's ex have a reason to come at us either. As for Xiao Long's kids... we'll you wouldn't want to distract Qrow either by his nieces heroics either, don't you?" Glynda folded her arms, her gaze unwavering. "But I want to talk about the new student, Jaune Arc. Why are you so hard on him? It's not like you to single out a student like this. You might have as well dragged him screaming in Beacon"
Ozpin leaned back in his chair, his fingers steepled. "Ah, Jaune Arc. Then you must have seen the transcripts from my... friends in the law firm. I will keep my promises to have my friends provide funds for Vale's Orphanage. It's not personal, Glynda. It's a necessary measure."
Glynda arched an eyebrow. "Necessary? Explain yourself, Ozpin."
Ozpin sighed, a hint of weariness in his eyes. "Glynda, my dear, sometimes to achieve the greater good, sacrifices must be made. Jaune Arc possesses something we need, something crucial."
Glynda's expression hardened. "And what exactly does he possess that's so important, Ozpin?"
Ozpin leaned forward, his gaze intense. "Healing abilities, Glynda. A semblance capable of mending wounds, even those inflicted by the darkest forces. I've seen it in action. But there's a catch – Jaune Arc is stubborn. I saw the need for this method."
Glynda frowned. "So, you resorted to threats and intimidation?"
Ozpin's eyes bore into hers. "Glynda, we need the Fall Maiden healed. Desperately. I've tried every avenue, and his Semblance might just salvage the problem we have right now. But I saw in his eyes that he won't comply unless he's pushed. I don't know what gave him such a bad impression towards Beacon... But if a few harsh words and challenges are what it takes to keep him near. Then it's a small price to pay for the greater good."
Glynda sighed, conflicted but understanding the gravity of the situation. "But threatening the orphans Arc saved from Torchwick's rampage?"
Ozpin sighed, acknowledging the gravity of his actions. "Glynda, I understand the cost, and I regret the necessity of it. But we needed leverage, something that would make Jaune Arc reconsider his stance of joining Beacon. I have reason to believe that if those kids were involved, he would be more likely to cooperate."
Glynda's frustration boiled over. "Children, Ozpin! Innocent children who have already been through enough. Is this really the path we're taking? Using their well-being as a bargaining chip? Threatening their Matron with lawyers and threats about unity!? Using kids to put strings on him!?"
Ozpin leaned back in his chair, weariness etched on his face. "Glynda, you must understand the bigger picture. The message from Qrow was clear – Salem's pawns are moving and we're running out of time. Desperate measures are required, and Jaune Arc's abilities could be the key to bringing the Fall Maiden back to the fray. If I have to sacrifice my decency for that advantage.. then I will."
Glynda crossed her arms, her gaze unwavering. "There has to be another way, Ozpin. We can't sacrifice our principles for the sake of expediency."
Ozpin nodded, a tinge of regret in his voice. "I wish there were, Glynda. But in times like these, sacrifices must be made. Jaune Arc may not forgive me for what I've done, but if it means protecting the people of Remnant, it's a price I must be willing to pay."
Glynda's expression softened, but her disapproval lingered. "You're playing a dangerous bargain, Ozpin. I hope you know what you're doing."
Ozpin looked out of the window, his eyes reflecting the weight of his decisions. "I don't take these actions lightly, Glynda. But sometimes, the shadows force us to dance in ways we'd rather not. We must do whatever it takes to ensure that the light prevails."
