Jaune Arc leaned back in his chair, savoring the rich aroma of his coffee as he watched the bustling crowd of Vale. The Vytal Festival had transformed the city into a vibrant hub of activity, with visitors from every kingdom mingling in the streets. His role as Acting Mediator for Atlas brought him here, but for a moment, Jaune allowed himself to simply enjoy the scene before him. He felt the need to after his talk with Ozpin.

Jaune, who had made a promise to stop drinking, opted out for the next friend he'd have. Coffee. It wasn't alcohol but it sure did something in Jaune that made him much more relaxed after that encounter.

The festival's energy was infectious, with stalls lined up selling exotic foods, and the air filled with the sounds of laughter and music. Jaune took a slow sip of his coffee, letting the warmth spread through him. He spotted a group of children chasing each other, their carefree joy bringing a smile to his face.

His peaceful moment was interrupted by a familiar, enthusiastic voice. "Jaune! Jaune!" He looked up to see Penny Polendina approaching, her vibrant orange hair catching the sunlight. Beside her was Ruby Rose, her trademark red cloak billowing behind her as she struggled to keep up with Penny's exuberant pace.

"Hi, Penny. Hi, Ruby," Jaune greeted them with a smile, setting his coffee cup down. "What brings you two here?"

Penny's face lit up even more, if that was possible. "Jaune, I have the most wonderful news! I introduced Ruby to Blaze!"

Jaune looked at the tank that Penny was carrying.

He could see that most of the tank was relying on Penny's systems as she carried it around.

Ruby, who had finally caught up, nodded with a slightly awkward smile at Penny's fish.

"Yep, I met Penny's fish. Blaze is… very unique…"

Jaune chuckled, raising an eyebrow. "How did you like her, Ruby? Planning to get some?"

Ruby's silver eyes pleaded for Jaune to shut his mouth. Jaune knew how much they cost. The delivery alone was costly, and the build for their aquarium was even more. For huntresses, Jaune knew she'd have a hard time watching them, not to mention Ruby's weapon-mania would probably get in the way too.

Penny nodded eagerly. "Blaze is a Betta fish. I got him just before coming to Vale. He's so colorful and full of life! I thought Ruby would appreciate meeting him, since he's such a good friend."

Ruby's smile turned into a grimace as she glanced at Penny's outfit. Today, Penny was wearing a bright green dress adorned with frills and bows, which contrasted sharply with Ruby's huntress attire. The difference in their fashion sense was stark, and Ruby's discomfort was palpable.

"Penny has, uh, interesting taste in clothes too," Ruby said, trying to be diplomatic. "It's... unique."

Jaune couldn't help but sympathize with Ruby. Penny's sense of fashion was as vibrant and unconventional as her personality. "Yeah, Penny definitely has her own style," he said, trying to hide his amusement. "But that's what makes her special, right?"

Penny beamed, clearly not catching the subtext. "Thank you, Jaune! I like to express myself through my clothes. It's a way to show my individuality!"

Jaune nodded, understanding. "Absolutely, Penny. It's important to be yourself."

Ruby shifted awkwardly, still trying to navigate the social intricacies and wanting Jaune to ask with her silver eyes pleading. "So, Penny, how's Blaze adjusting to the festival?"

Penny clapped her hands together, her excitement renewed. "Oh, he's doing wonderfully! I made sure to bring his favorite decorations and set up his tank just the way he likes it. I think he's enjoying the festival too, in his own way."

Jaune couldn't help but smile at Penny's boundless enthusiasm. She had a way of bringing light to any situation, even if it sometimes came with a dose of awkwardness. "That's great to hear, Penny. I'm sure Blaze appreciates all the effort you put in."

Penny nodded vigorously. "I hope so! Fish are sensitive to changes, but I think he's happy. Right, Ruby?"

Ruby nodded, though her smile was a bit strained. "Yeah, he seemed… content... swimming around..."

Jaune took another sip of his coffee, letting the warmth calm him. "So, have you two been enjoying the festival?"

Penny's eyes sparkled. "Yes! There are so many things to see and do. Ruby and I tried some new foods, and we watched a few of the tournament matches. It's so exciting!"

Ruby nodded, her expression relaxing a bit. "Yeah, it's been a lot of fun. And Penny's been great company. She makes everything more… lively."

Jaune chuckled. "I can imagine. Penny has that effect on people."

Penny looked between them, her smile unwavering. "I'm glad you think so! I just want everyone to have as much fun as possible."

Jaune glanced at Ruby, who gave him a knowing look. Despite the occasional awkwardness, it was clear that Penny's heart was always in the right place. "And you're doing a great job, Penny," Jaune said sincerely. "The festival wouldn't be the same without you."

Penny's eyes shone with gratitude. "Thank you, Jaune! That means a lot."

Ruby shifted, her smile becoming more genuine. "Yeah, Penny. You make things a lot more interesting."

Jaune nodded in agreement. "Absolutely. So, what's next on your festival agenda?"

Penny tilted her head, thinking. "Well, I was thinking of visiting the technology exhibits. There's so much innovation on display. I'm sure Ruby would love to see it too!"

Ruby's eyes lit up at that. "That sounds awesome! I've heard there are some really cool new weapons being showcased."

Jaune smiled, glad to see Ruby's enthusiasm. "Sounds like a plan. Enjoy the exhibits, you two."

Penny and Ruby nodded, Penny with her usual exuberance and Ruby with a more reserved excitement. "We will! See you later, Jaune!" Penny said, giving him a cheerful wave, then warned. "Oh, remember your promise!"

"Of course, Penny," Jaune raised his coffee. "I've traded it already with this."

"Bye, Jaune!" Ruby added, her smile warm.

Jaune had just finished his first coffee when he noticed a trio approaching the café. Weiss Schnee, Blake Belladonna, and Yang Xiao Long were chatting animatedly as they made their way toward the counter. He raised a hand in greeting as they spotted him.

"Hey, Jaune!" Yang called out, her usual cheerful demeanor shining through. Jaune took a note of her prosthetic and then shrugged it off. Weiss gave a polite nod, and Blake offered a small awkward smile. Jaune thought either they forgot about Menagerie or had gotten over it.

"Hi, guys," Jaune said, gesturing to the empty chairs around his table. "Join me?"

Yang and Blake quickly ordered their coffee while Weiss took a seat, her posture stiff and her expression reflecting a mix of frustration and fatigue.

"Oh, by the way, saw Ruby and Penny earlier," Jaune said, attempting to make small talk. "They were heading to the technology exhibits."

Weiss sighed, rolling her eyes. "Of course they were. Ruby's still as childish as ever, even though she's a young woman now. You'd think she'd have grown up by now."

Jaune took a sip of his coffee, playing it cool. "Well, Ruby's always going to be Ruby. She's got a unique way of seeing the world."

Weiss looked at him, her eyes narrowing slightly. "Unique is one word for it. I'd say more like immature."

Yang and Blake returned, coffees in hand. Yang plopped down in a chair next to Jaune, while Blake took the seat beside Weiss. Yang took a long sip of her drink, her eyes bright with curiosity. "So, what's everyone up to today?"

"Just taking a break," Jaune said, his tone casual. "Enjoying the festival while I can. It's not everyday I can sit around and do nothing. What about you three? Enjoying it?"

Weiss huffed, her frustration evident. "I'd enjoy it more if I knew where my sister was. Winter's supposed to have a break, but I haven't seen her since we arrived."

Jaune glanced at Weiss, sensing her underlying tension. "Winter's probably with General Ironwood handling Atlas business. You know how it is."

Weiss didn't reply immediately, her eyes fixed on her coffee. After a few moments of silence, she looked up, her irritation clear. "Shouldn't you be busy, Jaune? I thought you had important duties as Acting Mediator. We heard you're a Specialist."

"I'm a Conflict Resolution Specialist, not the kind of Specialist like Miss Winter does," Jaune leaned back in his chair, his tone dripping with sarcasm. "But yes, I was busy, but even mediators get time off. This is my break."

"Is that so?" Weiss replied, her voice edged with skepticism.

Jaune kept sipping his coffee, maintaining his calm demeanor.

Seeing her mounting frustration, Jaune decided to address it head-on. "You seem stressed, Weiss. Everything okay?"

Weiss's eyes flared, and she slammed her coffee cup down on the table. "You think?"

Jaune held up his hands in a placating gesture. "Alright, alright. Just asking. Want to talk about it?"

Weiss exhaled sharply, her shoulders sagging as some of the tension left her. "It's just… everything. The festival, the responsibilities, not knowing where our team leader is. It's all piling up."

Blake, who had been quietly listening, placed a hand on Weiss's arm. "We're all feeling the pressure, Weiss. But we're here together. We can help each other through it."

Yang nodded in agreement. "Yeah, Ice Queen. Chill out a bit. We're supposed to be enjoying ourselves, remember?"

Weiss shot Yang a glare at the nickname, but then sighed, her expression softening slightly. "You're right. I'm sorry. It's just hard to relax when there's so much at stake."

Jaune nodded understandingly. "I get it, Weiss. Believe me, I do. But Blake and Yang are right. We need to take moments like this to unwind. Otherwise, you'll burn out before the real challenges even start."

Weiss looked around the table at her friends, taking in their supportive expressions. She nodded slowly. "I suppose you're right. I'm just not used to... letting go."

Jaune smiled. "It's something we all have to learn."

Weiss's expression softened further, and she gave a small, appreciative smile. "Thank you, Jaune. And all of you. It means a lot when I hear nice words."

Yang raised her coffee cup in a mock toast. "To taking breaks and not losing our minds in the process."

Blake chuckled, lifting her own cup. "I'll drink to that."

Weiss hesitated for a moment before raising her cup as well, a genuine smile finally breaking through her previous frustration. "To breaks."

Jaune lifted his cup, with a grin, breaking his demeanor for a second, before putting it back on. "Cheers to that."

They all took a sip of their drinks, the atmosphere around the table growing lighter. Jaune watched as Weiss began to relax, her rigid posture easing as she engaged in the conversation. The atmosphere easing with each sip of coffee. Jaune found himself genuinely enjoying the company of old friends. It was then that Yang, always ready to lighten the mood, leaned forward with a mischievous glint in her eye.

"You know, Jaune," Yang began, a smirk tugging at her lips, "I still can't believe how you managed to play everyone in Menagerie. I heard the whole place broke out into song, and that's how they decided to accept help from Atlas and Mistral."

Jaune chuckled, shaking his head. "It wasn't as dramatic as that, Yang. We were just lucky. Everyone was busy dealing with the Grimm at the time. If it weren't for that, things might have turned out very differently. "

Yang laughed, her eyes twinkling with amusement. "Sure, sure. But let's be real — you pulled off some serious magic there. Too bad I wasn't around to see it myself. You know, with the whole losing my freaking arm thing." She lifted her robotic arm, giving it a playful wave.

Weiss's face tightened, her annoyance palpable as the conversation veered into less comfortable territory. She crossed her arms, her eyes narrowing slightly at Yang's nonchalance.

"I still don't understand how you can joke about that," Weiss muttered, her voice edged with frustration. "It's not something to be taken lightly."

Yang's expression softened, and she reached out to place a hand on Weiss's shoulder. "I know, Weiss. But sometimes, joking about it helps me deal with it. It's how I cope."

Weiss looked away, clearly still bothered. Jaune, sensing the tension, decided to steer the conversation back to lighter waters. "You know, Yang, the people of Menagerie really did sing. It was amazing seeing everyone come together like that. I hope the ruse wasn't taken personally."

"It's alright, Jaune," Blake said amiably, "the people of Kuo Kuana are doing well now…"

Jaune studied her. She really did not take grudges about it.

Yang grinned, clearly appreciating Jaune's attempt to shift the mood. "Well, who knew that you've a way with words, Jaune? Maybe next time we'll make sure you have a microphone and a spotlight."

Blake smiled softly, her eyes reflecting a mix of amusement and fondness. "It was more than just words, Yang. It was about giving people hope. And Jaune gave them a voice to sing their hearts out."

Weiss sighed, her posture relaxing just a fraction. "I suppose you're right."

Jaune nodded. "I really didn't do anything. The people of Menagerie were tired and decided to stick together. To lean on each other when things get tough and they decided enough is enough..."

Weiss looked at him, her expression calm. "Still, would have been great have a heads-up."

Jaune smiled reassuringly. "Again, it was necessary for the ruse. I apologize for it."

Yang took another sip of her coffee, her eyes thoughtful. "They've been through a lot, and managed to come out on top. And it's because they have each other."

Blake nodded in agreement, although Jaune could tell she had some opinions on how he went with it. "Exactly.."

Weiss's expression finally relaxed into a small smile. "You're right."

Jaune raised his coffee cup once more and took a sip.

As the conversation continued, Yang and Blake exchanged a glance, a silent conspiracy forming between them. Yang leaned closer to Blake, whispering something that made Blake smile and nod in agreement. Without missing a beat, Yang turned to Weiss with a mischievous grin.

"You know, Weiss, you really should take a chill pill," Yang said, her tone teasing. "Maybe go on a date or something."

Blake added, her voice calm but amused, "Yeah, Weiss. Some relaxation might do you good."

Before Weiss could react, Yang and Blake stood up, their intentions clear. "We'll leave you two to it," Yang said, winking at Jaune. "Have fun!"

With that, the two of them walked away, leaving Weiss fuming. She crossed her arms and glared at Jaune, who merely shrugged in response.

"Well, that was... unexpected," Jaune said, trying to keep the mood light. "Did Blake and Yang get together?"

"Yes," Weiss replied curtly, her eyes narrowing. "As you can see, they're very open about it."

Jaune nodded, falling into a contemplative silence. His mind wandered, lost in thought about the dynamics of their group and the complexities of their relationships. Weiss's growing frustration was palpable, and she finally broke the silence, her voice sharp with irritation.

"Why aren't you drunk?" she demanded, her anger bubbling to the surface.

"Oh," Jaune looked at her, a hint of amusement in his eyes. "Penny and Winter made me promise to slow down on drinking. They said it wasn't good for me."

Weiss's expression softened slightly, her anger giving way to a hint of surprise.

"Oh," she said, her tone quieter. "I didn't know they were looking out for you like that."

Jaune smiled faintly. "Yeah, they've been really supportive. They want to make sure I stay on track. And… it wasn't really healthy."

Weiss uncrossed her arms, some of her irritation dissipating. She looked at Jaune, a mixture of curiosity and concern in her eyes.

"And how's that going for you?"

Jaune shrugged again, his tone more serious. "It's been tough, but I'm managing. It helps to have friends who care."

Weiss nodded, her gaze softening further. "I suppose that's true. It's good that you have someone like my sister looking out for you."

Jaune took another sip of his coffee, feeling a sense of camaraderie despite the earlier tension. "We all need support sometimes. Even you, Weiss."

Weiss sighed, her shoulders relaxing as she finally allowed herself to let go of some of her frustration. She studied Jaune again with a mixed look on her face. "It's just hard to remember that sometimes."

Jaune smiled warmly. "That's what friends are for."

Weiss gave him a small, genuine smile in return. "Not that I needed that reminder."

Jaune nodded.

The two of them sat in relaxed silence for a moment as they sipped their coffee.

Weiss glanced at Jaune, her expression thoughtful. "You know, Jaune, maybe Yang and Blake had a point. Maybe I do need to learn to relax a bit more."

Jaune chuckled softly. "It wouldn't hurt to try."

Weiss smiled again, a genuine warmth in her eyes. "Thanks, Jaune. I appreciate it."

As the café continued to buzz with activity around them, Weiss let out a deep sigh and began to rant about her life as a huntress. The words poured out of her in a torrent, her frustrations and anxieties finding a voice.

"It's just so exhausting, Jaune. Every day it's another battle, another crisis. Sometimes it feels like no matter how hard I try, it's never enough. The expectations are overwhelming. My family, the Schnee name—it's all just so much. And then there's our team. Keeping everyone together, making sure we're all safe… it's a lot of pressure."

Jaune listened attentively, nodding at the right moments, his expression one of genuine concern and understanding. He gestured to a passing waiter and ordered another cup of coffee for Weiss, who barely noticed as she continued to unload her thoughts.

"And then there're the media and public image. I can't make a single mistake without it being plastered everywhere. People expect me to be perfect, but I'm not. I'm just trying to do my best, but sometimes it feels like my best isn't good enough. And don't even get me started on my father…"

As she spoke, Jaune pulled out his scroll and began to casually browse through it, making a show of being absorbed by some article or another. He wanted Weiss to feel like she could speak freely without worrying about his reactions.

Weiss continued, her words becoming slightly more animated as she expressed her grievances. "And the Grimm! They're relentless. There's never a moment's peace. It's like the world is constantly testing us, pushing us to our limits. I'm tired, Jaune. So tired."

Jaune nodded sympathetically. "I get it, Weiss. It sounds incredibly tough. But you're doing an amazing job, even if it doesn't always feel like it."

Weiss paused, finally taking a breath. She looked at Jaune, her eyes wide, as if seeing him for the first time since she started her rant. "Thanks, Jaune," she said softly. "I didn't realize how much I needed to get that off my chest."

Jaune smiled warmly at her. "Sometimes, you just need someone to listen. You'd be surprised how much Winter can sometimes go into rant mode."

The waiter returned with Weiss's coffee, and she accepted it with a grateful nod. She took a sip, the warm liquid soothing her frayed nerves. For the first time since she started talking, she felt a sense of relief.

"Really?"

"Yeah, she's a Specialist, it's bad sometimes."

"And you know this why?"

Jaune glanced at his scroll, feigning surprise. "Wow, look at that. We've been sitting here for over an hour."

Weiss blinked, suddenly aware of how much time had passed. She cupped her face in her hands, a mixture of embarrassment and relief washing over her. "I'm so sorry, Jaune. I didn't mean to take up so much of your time."

As they walked away from the café, Jaune couldn't help but chuckle softly to himself. Weiss shot him a curious look.

"What's so funny?" she asked, raising an eyebrow.

Jaune grinned. "You Schnees really do like speaking your frustrations."

Weiss frowned slightly. "What's that supposed to mean?"

Jaune hesitated for a moment, then decided to let the truth slip out. "Well, your sister Winter's been hanging out with me a lot lately. She tends to vent her frustrations too."

Weiss stopped in her tracks, glaring at him. "What do you mean, 'hanging out'? And why would Winter be venting to you?"

Jaune shrugged, trying to play it cool. "She's been hustling me for free meals. Every time we meet, she insists we go somewhere nice, and I always end up paying."

Weiss's expression turned incredulous. "Winter? Hustling you for free meals? That's… unbelievable."

Jaune chuckled, raising his hands defensively. "Hey, I guess even the most disciplined people need to unwind sometimes. She's probably just as stressed as you are."

Weiss shook her head, still processing the idea. "I can't believe she never mentioned it to me. She's always so composed and… well, Winter."

Jaune smiled, his eyes twinkling with amusement. "Guess everyone needs a break from being perfect all the time."

Weiss rolled her eyes but couldn't help the small smile that tugged at her lips. As they continued walking, Jaune decided to lighten the mood even further.

"Thanks for the date, by the way," he said, a playful tone in his voice.

Weiss stopped and turned to face him, crossing her arms. "Excuse me?"

Jaune shrugged, trying to keep a straight face. "Well, we did just spend an hour together, talking over coffee. Sounds like a date to me."

Weiss rolled her eyes again, but there was a hint of a smile on her face. "In your dreams, Jaune Arc. This was hardly a date."

Jaune laughed, enjoying the playful banter. "Maybe not, but still counts. Hah, and you said not in a thousand years."

Jaune Arc stifled a chuckle as he glanced at Weiss Schnee, who was still trying to process his playful remark. "You're really impossible, you know that?" she said, shaking her head with a mix of exasperation and amusement.

"Hey, I aim to please," Jaune replied with a grin. "You've got to admit, we've had worse times together."

Weiss rolled her eyes but couldn't hide her small smile. "Fine, you win this round, Arc."

Their lighthearted banter was abruptly interrupted by the shrill ring of Weiss's scroll.

She glanced at the caller ID and her expression turned serious and as she then left without a word.

Jaune watched her back curiously before leaning back.

"Jaune!"

Turning towards the familiar voice, Jaune spotted two figures waving at him.

Nora and Ren were dressed in their Huntsmen gear, grinning as they showed off their Huntsmen licenses.

"Congratulations," Jaune said with a broad smile. "How about we celebrate?"

"Are you saying you're buying?" Nora asked with a mischievous glint in her eye.

Jaune pulled out his scroll and pretended to inspect it, noting the surplus of lien he hadn't spent on dust-infused drinks.

"It looks like I've got plenty to spare."

Two chapters today.

Since I think I might have to take time with the next one.