Jaune was panting hard, which had been a new experience to start with. Now however it was familiar. This was the last stretch of the track, another kilometer quick march and they would be home. Tomorrow morning they would be troopers not cadets. But for tonight there would be showers, food and his cot.

He'd never thought a folding cot could be so comfortable before this. But after the first week Jaune had learned how to enjoy that standard sized bit of paradise. His thoughts drifted recalling his training.

This was week eleven of twelve. Originally he'd thought it would be simple to do. Like a few weeks at a wilderness camp. He'd be wrong. So very, very wrong.

They'd given each of them an armband to inhibit their aura. The first day had been hell. It became exhausting just to stand, like someone sitting on your chest.

Just to make things better he'd been given two. The first one had maxed out its power supply part way through the day. Some people had quit right after that.

After that they'd started training. Just marching and jogging to start with. With each day they got better, faster and more confident. Soon enough they were barely aware of the inhibitors. The food must have helped with that.

The COG food was as hearty as anything back home. Stakes, chops and sausages piled high. Salads with fruits and vegetables he'd never seen. More than one recruit had been tricked into trying a Glowbe. The fruit was a sour greasy mush and most cadets ran for the latrine after eating them.

After getting them able to march the COG had issued them with their armor, or plates as the instructors called them. The armor was heavier than his family set and they'd said it was light for training.

They had also started to train with weapons. Jaune had wanted to learn how to weld Crocea Mors properly. But the COG didn't have anyone to teach how to fight with a sword.

The shield however they had helped with. He'd never considered using a pistol with it before. Then again he'd never had a pistol before. Jaune had even spent some extra time at the combat course practicing.

So far it had paid off. During their final combat drill they'd managed to beat the par time by a full twenty seconds. Whilst he was happy to have done so well knowing his squad was temporary still stung a bit.

They'd cycled though a few times. Sometimes when people left other times the officers just ordered them to switch platoons. There must have been some logic behind it but what it was escaped him.

Still it was worth it to sign up. He was in the best shape he'd been and-

'Contact!' Jaune shouted as he dove to the ground. He didn't know if it was instinct or a reflex of training. But it meant the first rounds tore over his head.

Around him the others were taking what cover they could as well. A fallen tree, large rock or small depression in the ground became shelter. Over their heads tracers flashed past leaving momentary after images.

He'd thought it was strange when their instructors sent the cadets back alone. Normally they would have marched with them or rode along in a vehicle. This must have been a final test to see how they did.

Here they were stung out along the track. Enemies firing on them in a textbook L shaped ambush, thank you very much tactics class. With dummy rounds in their guns and no grenades. The only positive was the fact the incoming rounds were likely paint or shock at worst.

Moving to join two of the others Jaune nodded to them.
'Seems Master Sergeant Bradley isn't quite done,' Beard said, peeking over the cover. Ducking back quickly when the rounds stuck against the rock.
'Figures they made such a load about one final trip back,' Laffa grumbled.
'And our guns are loaded with blanks,' Jaune said, dropping his Lancer.

'So what now, glorious leader?' Laffa asked.
Jaune thought for a moment, 'We nee-'
He stopped ducking as more fire raked their cover. Then continued.

'We need to get in close. Our guns are useless. But our knives aren't.'
'And how do you plan to do that?' Beard asked drawing his combat knife.
'Oh something heroic, stupid and crazy,' Jaune replied, readying his shield.
'You're not serious?' Beard asked.
'Oh yes I am. Trust me, just stay behind me.'

Jaune took a breath then rose and ran towards the gunfire holding the shield up. It wasn't an upright sprint, more a hunched over dash. They'd been told it was "Roadie Run" he'd thought it was nuts. Right now however it was keeping most of him behind his shield.

Feeling the impacts and the thunk he recognised the impact of paint rounds. Likely their training armor's impact system was on. If he got hit that part would be shocked to stop him using it. So he wasn't totally crazy after all, just a little.

There were two ways to respond to an ambush. Withdraw and regroup, not possible when you're totally out ranged. Or assault through and break the enemy formation.

Circling to the left Jaune heard the call outs of the DeeBees. Likely the training bots from the range had been rushed ahead by truck. He homed in on one that sounded alone, the impacts on his shield were making his arms start to ache.

'Enemy closing. This unit is in di-' The DeeBee started. It didn't finish its call for help as Jaune body slammed it with all his might.

The two of them fell on top of each other. The DeeBee responded first. Landing a punch that made his vision swim. Jaune got a hand around his knife and drew it before stabbing into its armpit.

That was a weakness in these ones. Up close there were a lot of places with wires, pipes and pistons that could be broken. Especially when you jammed a knife into its guts.

Twisting the knife he was rewarded with a burst of oil, hydraulic and cooling fluids spraying out. It splashed over him covering his helmet lenses. Jaune wiped them clean with a thumb.

'Nice work,' Laffa called running over with Beard.
'Grab the Enforcer,' Jaune replied, his head still spinning slightly from that punch.
'You got it boss,' Beard said, scooping up the SMG.
'That's one down and one gun for us. Lets go get some more,' Jaune said, picking up his shield.

Back at the observation room Master Sergeant Bradley was watching Jaune's unit on the monitors. This was the last part of their testing. How did they respond when surprised by an enemy attack?

Too many good people had died on E-Day because they weren't mentally prepared for it. Good people who'd thought they had seen the end of war. Only to find the ground open up and monsters pour out.

Likewise the random unit shuffling was meant to simulate combat losses. Old people would be gone and new faces in their place. How fast could people pick up on each other? Learn to trust in the soldier next to you?

So far the cadets were performing as expected. The first few rounds had gone over their heads to give them a chance. Not something that was likely to happen in combat but "killing" them all in the first strike would ruin their confidence.

Confidence they'd had to build up. The old way of breaking them then building them might have been an option if they were all Gears. But far too many of these were going to be support staff and the standards for mental fortitude were a little lower.

Her eye was drawn to the left flank of her "ambush" ; someone had taken down four Peacemakers. Impressive. Bradley switched to the alternative view to see the cadets icons. Arc and his latest group, not a surprise.

The review agents had flagged him as a tactician and a fast study. Good squad leader material once his confidence was steady. Strange he got that designation so quick. She could see it now but he'd been tagged within their first two weeks. Normally the system needed three or four to designate potential like that.

He'd rounded up some others and seized the weapons from the DeeBees they managed to beat. Bradley snorted at that, remembering when official orders prohibited Gears from using Locust weapons. No one respected that. Not even the officers who were ordered to enforce it.

A few of his merry band had been tagged but they'd gone down fighting so no bad marks there. Now however the tide was turned firmly against her forces. With half of the L destroyed the remainder was being cut apart. Arc had got his lot into a crescent and was engulfing her remaining units.

Bradley watched the ticker countdown for the remaining DeeBees. This was one of the few times that sight didn't make her feel a tinge of anger or fear. A bloodless battle to bloody a new generation. She sincerely hoped it wasn't going to make them over confident.

Seeing them starting to regroup she gave them a few minutes then stepped out onto the walkway outside. Looking down at the parade ground she looked over the ranks of troopers. Some with paint, mud or machine fluids on them.

90 days ago they'd arrived. Most eager, some shy, others distant. Now they were standing at attention as one. Not bad for three months of training. Bradley drew up and started her speech.

'You've all done well. That was the final exercise. As of this moment you are no longer Cadets. You are troopers of the COG. Even if you join the Navy and become a squid. Or the Air corps pins wings on you. You will always be a Trooper. Never forget that. You are now part of a family that bridges two worlds. The people of Remnant might revere their warriors. But let's pray they never have to face soldiers like you on the field of battle. Now get some rest. Your assignments can wait till morning. Dismissed.'

A cheer went up the ranks as the newly christened troops hugged, punched and celebrated. A little hammy but they'd taken it well. She watched them go over to the field kitchen lured by the smell of food. Hopefully they had enough ice cream for them all. Say what you would about a new world but something never changed.

Jaune woke sharply at 5am. It was weird but they'd all picked up the habit. All the other Cade- Troopers, they were Troopers now. Had woke up around the same time. They'd done as drilled, getting changed and making their beds.

The first part had been a bit weird for everyone. Few people were used to getting changed around strangers. But after the first few days of exhaustion the novelty had worn off. He'd always been good at making his bed though. Something about getting your first task for the day done.

That done, they all returned their equipment to the Armoury. It felt strange to know that his armor would be worn by another Cadet. It had more scratches and worn patches then when he'd gotten it.

Then they assembled in the class room for their assignments. The drill Sergeant were there along with Bradley. Each of the Troopers had their name called and was given their new orders.

'Andrews, Air Fleet. Looks like you're becoming a bird-man,' Bradley called out, 'Here's your ticket to Revetment.'
Andrews stepped forward taking his orders and saluting Bradley. The Master Sargent returned the salute with a smile.
'Don't let them keep you up so long you forget how to march. Or I'll make you do this all over again, you hear me?' Bradley said.
'I hear you, Ma'am,' Andrews said, smiling back.
'Good now get along.'

Andrews walked back to the group getting patted on the back and punched lightly on the shoulder.
'Andesite, Marines. Don't forget your towel,' Bradley announced, 'Trench is a nice place, let's hope the sea air agrees with you.'
A few more times the events repeated. Each time it drew closer to Jaune. Until finally.

'Arc, Specialist assignment. Looks like you're going places,' Bradley said, holding out his orders.
'Yes, Ma'am. Thank you Ma'am,' Jaune said, walking up and saluting.
'Might want to cut down on the formality Arc. Not sure what things are like at this Lodge place. But if they give you any trouble let me know. We'd be happy to have you at Bastion.'
'Thank you Ma'am. I'll keep it in mind,' Jaune replied.

With his orders in hand Jaune walked back to the others. He was one step closer to being a Huntsman. Tomorrow he'd be closer still.

Qrow looked around the village as he walked though the main square. It was still being fixed. A stonemason was counting off the damage to their apprentice. Off to one side a carpenter was inspecting a wall with the outline of a Beowolf scorched into it.

The fight must have been fierce to do this much damage. This place was going to take some time to get back to normal. Fortunately no one was whining about it. Making it through an attack like this was hard enough. The last thing anyone wanted was more Grimm being drawn in whilst they were recovering.

He made for the Inn. Not to drink, not yet at least. He needed information and places like this the Inn was the best place to get it. Pushing the door open he found an older woman with an apron moving a table.

'We're not open yet,' She announced without turning.
'Not a customer. Just looking for a friend,' Qrow said, looking around.
'Its just me here,' The Innkeeper said, turning, 'And I don't know you.'

Qrow gave a shrug and held up a hand, 'My friend isn't local. She's about this tall. Brown hair, eyes and tends to wear the same. Has a staff and knows how to use it. Heard she was in the area and wanted to catch up.'
'Can't say I saw anyone like that recently,' The Innkeeper said, turning to wipe the table.
'That's funny because the next village over said she headed this way after someone put out a call. Load of Grimm attacking you.'

The Innkeeper stopped for a moment. Swallowing dryly she spoke, 'Really? Well I still can't say I saw someone like that.'
'You sure? Because I'm sure that the wall outside has her style all over it,' Qrow said. Pointing a thumb over his shoulder at the scorched wall.
'Oh that well…' The Innkeeper said looking scared.
'Okay this isn't working, let's try something else,' Qrow said, reaching into his pocket.
The sound of a gun being cocked made him stop and look up.

'Don't you move,' The Innkeeper said, holding the revolver up.
'Oh great. Normally this happens the next morning,' Qrow said with a bored tone.
'What are you getting there?' The Innkeeper demanded the weapon shaking in her hand.
'My Scroll. I've got my license on it,' Qrow said calmly, 'So can I take it out or are you going to shoot the wall?'

The Innkeeper nodded quickly. Qrow sighed and pulled out his scroll tapping till he brought up his license and held it out. The Innkeeper leaned forward a bit inspecting it then let out a breath.

'Sorry. The last set of her friends said that some killer was following her. Given she was going to look into the disappearances I was worried when you said you were looking for her,' The Innkeeper said relaxing.
'What other friends?' Qrow asked, now feeling worried.
'Two young men and an old man came though. Said they were looking for their friend like you,' The Innkeeper said tilting her head.

'How long ago?' Qrow asked quickly.
'About a day or so I think,' The Innkeeper replied.
'Did you tell them where she went?'
'Of course they had licenses like you. Why? Is she in trouble?'

'It sounds like it. Which way did they go?' Qrow asked.
'South. They took a bad route though the pass. Lots of Grimm but they didn't seem to mind. Said it would help them catch up,' The Innkeeper said with a shrug.
'I've got to go. Thanks for the help.' Qrow called over his shoulder running out.

As he left the village he switched to a jog to save aura. Amber was a good fighter but she was still way too young to be out alone. He pulled out his scroll and tried to call her again.

Once more he heard the sound of her voicemail. Would it kill her to at least answer? At this rate he'd drag her back to Beacon just for being so headstrong. She was a maiden, running off on her own wasn't part of the job.

'I'm not sure I'm ever going to get used to this,' Mercury muttered. As they walked pass another pair of Ursa.
'What's the matter? You can kill your dad but a little walk got you scared? So much for the assassin.' Emerald said mockingly.
'Hey he had it coming. And even with Cinder's little display of control I'm not used to walking past Grimm,' Mercury said, rounding on Emerald.

'How about both of you remaining quiet for the last part of our little trip,' Cinder cut in, 'Or I might slip and let you both get mauled.'

The two teens went quiet at that. Cinder had enough authority that this whole pass was passive to them. Any "Slip" would be anything but. And both were more than willing to believe she could carry through on that threat.

After a short while however Mercury spoke again, 'Something isn't right here.'
'What? You forgot to grab something before you burned your house down?' Emerald said with a wave of her hand.
'No. But my dad used to have me practice out here fighting Grimm. Why are there so many here?'
Cinder stopped for a moment, 'You're sure there's more than normal?'

'Definitely,' Mercury said with a nod, 'And that's weird right? I mean they just attacked the Village. Shouldn't there be less now?'
'Could be there was more than you thought,' Emerald said with a shrug, 'Then again that place had quite a few disappearances recently. Probably just drew more than usual.'
'You might be right but it's strange. My dad seemed to think someone might have been trying to frame him.'

'Marcus Black was worried about a few missing people?' Cinder asked, turning fully.
'Well it's more than a few. More like fifty or so that he found out about,' Mercury said with a shrug.
'The Seer didn't report that,' Cinder replied, her eyes narrowing.
'So the floating ball screwed up. It's bound to happen right?'

'No,' Cinder said quietly before turning and setting off at a jog of her own.
'Cinder?' Emerald called running to catch up.
'We might not be the only ones after the Maiden. We have to get there first.'

On the other side of the pass Amber stroked her horse's mane to calm it. The last few minutes it had been getting more agitated. She felt uneasy as well but looking around there was nothing around. Perhaps it was just the weather changing?

As they made a turn in the road she saw a tree fallen in the road. That was annoying. Coming to a stop she dismounted and looked over it. It wasn't that thick a trunk, likely it had just been uprooted by the wind.

She turned to look at the roots. Only to find none were hanging in the air. It had been cut down. Amber drew her staff in a heartbeat. The horse whinnied and kicked. Something large, fast and red shot past the edge of her vision.