Jaune Arc stood on the stage in the heart of Mistral City, looking out at the sea of faces before him. His sleek black suit, yellow tie showing signs of wear, hinted at the toll recent events had taken on him. He took a deep breath, adjusting the microphone before speaking.
"Ladies and gentlemen of Mistral, thank you for gathering here today. I apologize for the short notice and the state of my tie," he began, eliciting a few chuckles from the crowd. "But more importantly, I want to express my profound gratitude for your time and support."
He paused, allowing his words to settle over the audience. "Today, I want to extend special thanks to the people of Atlas and Winter Schnee for their invaluable cooperation in capturing Raven Branwen. Yes, yes, we have captured her. She was apprehended in a village near Kuchinashi City and we like to announce that it was done without casualties."
A murmur spread through the crowd at the mention of Raven Branwen's name. Jaune raised a hand to quiet the growing commotion. "I understand your reactions. Raven Branwen's capture marks a significant victory for justice. Her crimes were severe, and her dangerous abilities made her a formidable adversary. Because of the gravity of her actions, she will be transported to Atlas's maximum-security facility, where she will remain until a proper trial can be conducted."
The crowd's noise surged again, louder this time. Jaune waited patiently, his hand still raised, until the clamor subsided. "I share your concerns and frustrations. Believe me, it took everything in me to aid in her capture. But we must ensure that justice is served properly and safely."
He allowed himself a small, weary smile. "In addition to Raven's capture, her associates have also been detained, and her fanatical White Fang cell has been dismantled. This was accomplished through the combined might of Mistral and Atlas huntsmen, along with the brave authorities who participated in the operation. Their efforts have been nothing short of heroic."
Applause erupted from the crowd, and Jaune nodded in acknowledgment, though his expression remained somber. "However, our work is far from over. There are still numerous obstacles to peace. The Grimm continue to pose a threat, and remnants of the White Fang remain active. But I am confident that Mistral will face these challenges head-on. You are strong, and together, you will persevere."
Jaune's voice grew stronger with conviction. "So I want to thank you all for allowing me to take temporary control during these tumultuous times. With Mistral now more stable, I believe it is time for me to redirect my efforts to other areas in need of attention."
He paused, taking in the faces before him — some hopeful, some confused. "And so, I am stepping down from my temporary role. It has been an honor to serve you all, but the time has come for new leadership to guide Mistral forward. So, stand proud Mistral, you endured."
With those final words, Jaune stepped back from the microphone. The crowd erupted into a mix of applause and bewildered chatter. As he descended the stage, he could feel the weight of their expectations and confusion, but also their gratitude. He had done what he set out to do — he had brought a semblance of peace and justice to Mistral, and now it was time for the city to find its own way forward.
Jaune walked through the crowd, offering nods and brief words of thanks to those who reached out to him.
Jaune Arc walked away from the crowd, their murmurs fading behind him as he moved through the bustling streets of Mistral. His mind raced with the recent events, but he knew he had to focus on the task at hand. But Jaune had something in his mind. One that needed his utmost attention.
"We need to know if we got fucking paid," the drunk's voice echoed.
All the voices were in unity with this.
He headed towards the bank, needing to check his account and assess his financial situation.
As Jaune stepped into the bank, the cool air-conditioning provided a welcome respite from the warm afternoon sun. He approached the teller, who recognized him immediately and offered a polite smile.
"Mr. Arc, how can we assist you today?"
"I'd like to check my account balance, please," Jaune replied, handing over his identification.
The teller quickly accessed his account, her eyes widening slightly before she turned the screen towards him. "You've received a substantial deposit recently."
Jaune glanced at the screen, confirming the significant amount of Lien in his account. His wages and the reward for capturing Raven Branwen. Despite the turmoil and exhaustion, he felt a wave of relief wash over him. The funds were enough to cover the townhouse he'd been eyeing in Mantle, a goal he'd been working towards for years.
"Looks like things are finally turning around," Jaune said to himself, a small smile forming on his lips.
Leaving the bank, Jaune scrolled through his contacts on his Scroll until he found Cyanne's name. He dialed her number and waited as the call connected.
"Jaune! It's been ages," Cyanne's voice chimed through the speaker, filled with excitement. "You've been busy with Mistral affairs. Are you finally done?"
"Hey, Cyanne," Jaune replied, a smile tugging at his lips. "Yeah, I'm stepping down. I have a favor to ask. Could you help me purchase that townhouse in Mantle? The one I showed you a while back."
Cyanne's tone grew even more enthusiastic. "Of course! I knew you'd get it one day. I'll take care of everything. It's a beautiful place. You're going to love it."
"Thanks, Cyanne. I really appreciate it," Jaune said sincerely. "I owe you one."
"Oh, you owe me more than one, Jaune," Cyanne teased. "But we'll call it even for now. So, what's next for you?"
Jaune paused, considering her question. "I'm not entirely sure yet. I need some time to think things through. But for now, I'm just glad to have a moment to breathe. Things have been hectic, and I didn't even know about this Lien because of how busy I am."
"Take your time," Cyanne said warmly. "You deserve it. And don't worry about the house. I'll make sure everything goes smoothly. Just don't spend the rest of your Lien on booze, Jaune."
"Thanks again, Cyanne," Jaune said, before ending the call.
With a lighter heart, Jaune pocketed his Scroll and began to stroll around Mistral. The city had become vibrant over the past few weeks, its streets filled with vendors, shoppers, and children playing. People recognized him, offering nods and greetings as he passed. Some stopped to ask if he was truly stepping down from his role, and Jaune offered vague answers, not wanting to delve into details just yet.
Eventually, Jaune made his way to the port, where Winter Schnee's airship was docked. Atlas officers and crewmen were performing maintenance, their efficiency and precision clear in every movement. Jaune approached, offering a brisk salute to the crew before boarding the ship.
Inside, Jaune settled into a quiet corner, pulling out his Scroll to check his emails. He sifted through various messages, many of which were routine updates and reports. For the first time in a while, he felt a sense of normalcy returning.
However, his moment of peace was abruptly shattered by a news alert that flashed across his screen. The headline read, "Menagerie Guard Suffers Extreme Losses in Battle Against White Fang; Explosion Rocks Kuo Kuana as Menagerie Demands Answers from Atlas."
Jaune's heart sank, and a headache began to form as he read the details. The Menagerie Guard had been hit hard, and the White Fang had somehow acquired advanced Atlas technology. The implications were dire, and Menagerie was demanding answers from Atlas.
"This can't be happening," Jaune muttered to himself. He leaned back in his seat, closing his eyes for a moment to process the information. The world, as always, seemed to be spiraling into chaos once again, and the thought of more innocent lives being caught in the crossfire filled him with dread.
Jaune stood up and made his way to Winter Schnee's office aboard the airship. He knocked on the door and waited for her to respond.
"Come in," Winter's authoritative voice called from inside.
Jaune entered, finding Winter engrossed in a stack of reports. She looked up, her expression softening slightly when she saw him.
"Jaune, what brings you here?"
"I just received some troubling news about Menagerie," Jaune began, handing her his Scroll with the news alert. "The White Fang attacked, and they were using Atlas technology. Menagerie is demanding answers. Did you hear of this already, Ma'am?"
Winter's eyes scanned the report on her hand, her expression hardening. "I just did."
Jaune nodded. "I figured as much. I wanted to let you know personally. If there's anything I can do to help, just say the word."
"Thank you, Jaune. Your dedication, as always, is commendable," Winter said, her tone sincere. "For now, we need to gather more information. We can't exactly go to Menagerie at the moment."
Jaune hesitated for a moment before speaking again. "Miss Winter, do you think we can ever truly stop the White Fang? It feels like every time we make progress, they find a way to strike back. They are more… organized and I feel like the past few years they'd improved on how they do things."
Winter sighed, her expression thoughtful. "It's difficult to say. The White Fang's ideology is deeply ingrained in its members and although we have made clowns of them in Mistral, thanks to the narrative you pushed with Raven. They remain dangerous."
"You're right," Jaune agreed, feeling a renewed sense of resolve. "One way or another, we have a way to put an end to them. Through blood or words."
The two sighed at the task.
"Jaune," she said, looking up at him. "Are you really sure about letting go of your role in Mistral?"
Jaune turned to face her. "Ma'am, I appreciate your concern, but I can't handle Mistral's affairs any longer. It's too much for me. Eventually, it's best if I focus on my job as a Mediator. I've always been better at talking to people, finding out their problems, and helping them solve them. Mistral needs to take care of itself. Besides, they've been handling it well when we were capturing Raven's associates. It's best if Mistral is led by its own people who have been doing the role for years. To be honest, I'm just glad I didn't mess up and can comfortably hand over the responsibility."
Winter regarded him thoughtfully. "I understand, Jaune. It would be the best if you handle the affairs in Menagerie and Atlas. I trust your choice."
"It was the optimal decision," the Scheming Voice interjected. "By stepping down now, you will be perceived as a conscientious leader who did not allow the position to dominate him. This enhances our credibility and influence. Furthermore, it compels them to consider, 'What would Jaune Arc do?' or to seek our counsel."
"But before you go, could you check on Raven Branwen? She's injured herself trying to escape again."
Jaune's expression hardened. "Of course. Where is she again?"
"In the hold," Winter replied. "General Ironwood will be coming to take her away soon."
Jaune nodded and turned to leave. He arrived at the hold just in time to see Raven trying to escape. She strained against the electric collar around her neck, her body convulsing with each jolt of electricity. She powered through the pain, but the voltage eventually halted her progress. When she saw Jaune, she paused, her eyes narrowing with a mixture of hatred and defiance.
"Stand back," Jaune instructed the personnel nearby. "I'll handle this."
The doctors hesitated for a moment before stepping aside. Jaune approached Raven cautiously, his hand resting on the hilt of Crocea Mors.
"Why don't you just kill me, Arc?" Raven snarled, her voice filled with anger and frustration.
Jaune's expression turned cold and cruel. An expression that he never wore. "The Headmasters have use for you, Ma'am. It's unfortunate you're not on an electric chair instead. The things you did... it should have been good enough for you to steal. But to attack those who can't fight and then leave them to the mercy of the Grimm... is unacceptable."
"It's not my fault that they are weak," Raven spat, her voice cold and unyielding. "I was giving them a wakeup call. If they can't even protect themselves beyond the city walls, then it's best if they stay inside, where it's safe." She turned her piercing gaze on Jaune, her eyes flashing with a fury that seemed to burn from within. "
Jaune met her stare evenly, a quiet determination in his own eyes. "It's compassion. Have your heard that?"
"Compassion?" Raven scoffed, a bitter laugh escaping her lips. "That's just a pretty word for weakness. You coddle them, protect them from the harsh realities of the world. And what does that do? It makes them soft. Helpless."
Jaune eyed her dully. "And what does your way do, Raven? You throw them to the wolves and call it a lesson. You think strength comes from survival alone, but strength also comes from unity, from helping each other."
"Helping each other?" Raven's voice dripped with disdain. "That's the kind of naïve thinking that gets people killed. You can't rely on anyone but yourself in this world. The sooner they learn that, the better."
Raven's eyes softened for a moment, but then hardened again. "You pity the weak, Arc. That's why you'll never be truly strong."
Jaune looked at her with utter disdain this time. He had enough.
"Is that really coming out of your mouth? Your speak like a pretentious teen who has just discovered the natural selection without recognizing that even animals protect their weakest members. They safeguard their young until they can sustain themselves and become strong. You do not exhibit true strength. If you were genuinely strong, you would possess the courage to fulfill your role as a responsible and caring mother, made your young, strong, hell, even made your members strong," Jaune laughed, a harsh, mirthless sound. "Besides, despite all the power you have, you lost to someone who can't even be properly called a Huntsman. What does that say about you? Pathetic."
Raven growled like a cornered animal, her body trembling with rage. "You're a fool, Arc. You think you've won, but this isn't over."
"Perhaps not, because regardless of my actions, you will inevitably return to Headmaster Ozpin, or they will find a way to remove whatever power you possess," Jaune replied, his tone icy. "But for now, you're staying put. And I'm here to make sure of it."
He knelt beside her, his hands glowing with a soft, healing light. Despite her protests and attempts to pull away, Jaune focused on mending her wounds.
"Why are you even doing this?" Raven asked, her voice softer now, almost vulnerable.
"Because it's the right thing to do," Jaune replied simply. "Despite everything you've done, despite what you did. You are useful to some people. You are their problem now. Not mine."
Raven fell silent, her eyes filled with a mix of emotions. Jaune finished healing her wounds and stood up, his expression resolute.
"Stay still and rest," he said, turning to leave. "General Ironwood will be here soon to take you away."
As he walked out of the hold, Jaune made his way back to Winter's office. He knocked on the door and entered when she called out.
"How did it go?" Winter asked, looking up from her desk.
"She's secured," Jaune replied. "I healed her wounds. She's not going anywhere until General Ironwood arrives."
"Good," Winter said, nodding in approval. "Thank you, Jaune. You've done more for Mistral and Remnant than you realize."
Jaune smiled faintly. "I just hope it's enough."
"It is," Winter assured him. "The General has arrived. We should meet him."
Jaune nodded, leaving Winter's office with her. They walked through the airship, greeting the crew members as they passed. As they stepped out into the bright Mistral day, Jaune saw the imposing figure of General Ironwood's airship descending gracefully toward the landing pad. The sight of the massive ship, flanked by the sleek and efficient Atlas military transport vessels, made Jaune pause. The Atlas symbol, a stark white against the deep blue of the ship's hull, gleamed in the sun.
General Ironwood himself, stern and authoritative, stood at the forefront of a group of highly trained operatives known as the Ace-Ops. Each member of this elite team exuded confidence and capability. Their presence underscored the importance of Raven Branwen's capture and the severity of the situation.
Jaune watched as Ironwood, and his team disembarked. The General moved with a sense of urgency, his sharp eyes taking in the scene with practiced efficiency. The Ace-Ops followed closely, their synchronized movements reflecting their rigorous training.
"General Ironwood," Jaune greeted with a respectful nod as he approached.
"General," Winter Schnee said, saluting.
"Jaune Arc, Specialist Schnee," Ironwood replied, his voice firm but acknowledging. "Mr. Arc, I understand you've been instrumental in the capture of Raven Branwen. Good work."
Jaune managed a tired smile. "Thank you, General. Raven's secure in the hold, and she's been treated for her injuries. Your team shouldn't have any trouble transporting her."
Ironwood nodded, his expression revealing a little smile. "We'll take it from here. Your efforts are appreciated. Take some time to rest, you've earned it. Specialist Schnee, would you kindly debrief us along the way?"
With General Ironwood and the Ace-Ops, Jaune felt a sense of relief wash over him. Knowing that Raven was now in capable hands allowed him to focus on the other pressing matters at hand. He nodded once more to the General and Winter before turning to leave, making his way back to his cabin aboard the airship.
Back in the privacy of his cabin, Jaune took a moment to collect his thoughts. The room was comfortable, a sanctuary from the chaos outside. He sat at the desk, pulling out his Scroll and connecting to the secure communication network. It was time to address the growing crisis in Menagerie.
He scrolled through his contacts until he found Nyra's name, one of the key diplomats representing Menagerie here in Mistral. The situation in Menagerie was dire, and Jaune knew that swift and decisive action was needed to mitigate the suffering of the Faunus refugees who had been caught in the recent conflict with the White Fang.
As the call connected, the holographic image of Nyra appeared before him. The diplomat's expression was one of concern and weariness, reflecting the strain of the current crisis.
"Jaune Arc, it's good to see you," Nyra greeted, her voice tinged with relief. "I understand you've stepped down from your role in Mistral. I hope you're finding some semblance of rest."
Jaune nodded. "Thank you, Nyra. I'm focusing on other areas now, but I wanted to discuss the refugee situation in Menagerie. I've heard about the recent attack and the devastating losses. And like I said before, how can I help?"
Nyra sighed, running a hand through her silver hair. "The situation is dire, Arc. We have thousands of displaced Faunus, and our resources are stretched thin. We desperately need aid — food, medical supplies, shelter. Anything you can provide would be a godsend."
"Understood," Jaune responded in a serious tone. "I will contact the necessary parties and arrange for supplies to be sent as soon as possible. Although I have stepped down from managing the overall affairs of Mistral, they have entrusted me with addressing this crisis."
"Thank you, Jaune," Nyra said, her gratitude clear. "Your assistance could make a significant difference. We're coordinating with Atlas to ensure the safety of our people, but tensions are high. Any diplomatic support you can provide would also be invaluable."
"I'll do what I can," Jaune said. "I'll stay in touch and keep you updated on our progress. Hang in there, Nyra. You'll get through this."
As the call ended, Jaune turned to the terminal in his cabin and quickly drafted a series of messages to various contacts from charitable organizations, medical suppliers, and influential allies, requesting immediate assistance for Menagerie.
Some were agreeable, some were downright amused or disgusted by the thought of helping 'terrorists'.
Over the next few hours, Jaune worked tirelessly, coordinating efforts to provide aid to Menagerie Refugees. He leveraged his network of contacts, calling in favors and negotiating deals to secure the necessary supplies. His Scroll buzzed continuously with incoming messages.
Jaune outlined plans, detailing the immediate needs of the refugees and the long-term goals. Developing a comprehensive strategy to provide immediate relief.
Jaune knew that time was of the essence. The attack had left many wounded and homeless, and the longer they went without help, the worse their situation would become. He communicated with Atlas officials, urging them to expedite their aid efforts and ensure that the supplies reached the refugees swiftly.
And in the following days were a whirlwind of activity. Jaune coordinated with various organizations, arranged for the transportation of supplies, and mediated discussions between Atlas and Menagerie officials who were already on Mistral shores. His efforts began to bear fruit as shipments of food, medicine, and other essentials started to arrive in their temporary settlements where most of the Faunus landed.
The sight of aid reaching the desperate Faunus refugees brought a sense of fulfillment to Jaune. He knew that their struggles were far from over, but this was a significant step in the right direction. The gratitude expressed by the Menagerie officials and the relief on the faces of the refugees were rewards in themselves.
But despite the progress, Jaune remained vigilant. The White Fang was still around, and he didn't know what those fanatics would try to do. So he continued to monitor the situation closely, ready to step in and address any issues that arose. The coordination of such a large-scale relief effort was a complex and ongoing task, but Jaune was determined to see it through.
As the immediate refugee crisis began to stabilize, Jaune allowed himself a moment of respite. He returned to his cabin, looking out at the city of Mistral below. The people went about their lives while rebuilding.
His Scroll buzzed with a new message, pulling him from his thoughts. It was a message from Cyanne, informing him that the purchase of the townhouse in Mantle had been finalized and all he needed to wait for was paperwork to be done.
Jaune smiled, knowing that he had a place to call home when he needed it.
A place that he could call his own.
It was Lien, well spent.
Jaune was about to make plans to get a break and return to Mantle. But as if to mock him, his Scroll buzzed again, reporting a message saying that Adam Taurus, of the White Fang, has been killed by a Team of Huntsmen from Vale and Sienna Khan, has declared a ceasefire, saying:
"My foremost duty is to protect the well-being of our people and our cause. The ongoing hostilities are causing immense suffering and harm to our citizens. Therefore, I am calling for an immediate cessation of all hostilities. Let us come together to find a peaceful resolution that spares our people further pain and paves the way for a brighter future."
The Menagerie Civil War has come to a standstill.
And Jaune had a horrible feeling that, as the person in charge of mediating peace between Mistral, Atlas, and Menagerie. He was about to get dragged into this ceasefire for negotiations.
"Out of the shitshow, and into the fire, Brother," the yellow tie tightened around his neck.