Glynda strode confidently through the gates of Beacon Academy, her heels clicking rhythmically on the polished stone path. The familiar sight of the towering spires and lush gardens brought a rush of nostalgia. It had only been a few months since she graduated, but it felt like a lifetime. Now, she was back to finalize some lingering paperwork and officially start her career as a professional Huntress. She already was working on, doing this and that, but the paperwork still needed to be done.
Beacon was bustling with activity. Students hurried between classes, some sparring in the courtyard, while others chatted in groups. Glynda's sharp eyes took in the scene, a mix of longing and determination in her gaze. She adjusted the stack of documents in her arms and made her way towards the administration building.
Halfway there, she noticed a familiar figure standing by a large oak tree, lost in thought. A tall young man with messy blond hair with streaks and striking blue eyes, dressed in a suit of armor. It was Jaune Arc, someone who she met a while ago, a meeting that was one of those things she couldn't forget even if she tried. Well, her stupid heart wouldn't anyway, despite her disciplined mind's protest.
"Jaune!" Glynda called out, a genuine smile spreading across her face.
Jaune looked up, his expression brightening as he recognized her. "Miss Goodwitch—!"
"It's Glynda."
"Yes, hey, it's good to see you!" He smiled awkwardly.
Jaune Arc seemed like he was a fish out of water. She owed him so she had been helping him and one thing she noticed was how familiar, yet unfamiliar, he was with things. Like he just got stranded on an island. But considering he was someone outside of the kingdom, it made sense to him. Jaune had saved Glynda's life on a mission where she had been grievously injured by a Grimm. She owed him a great deal, and their friendship had only deepened since then.
"What brings you back to Beacon?" Jaune asked, his tone light but curious.
"I'm here to finish some paperwork," Glynda replied, rolling her eyes slightly. "You know how it is with bureaucracy. And you?"
Jaune sighed, rubbing the back of his neck. "I just got my Huntsman license, and I'm trying to get all my documents in order. It's been a nightmare, especially since I'm technically from outside the kingdom."
Glynda nodded sympathetically. "I can imagine. It's hard enough for us, and we have all the proper channels. Come on, let's go to the administration office together. Maybe I can help speed things up for you."
Jaune's face lit up with gratitude. "That would be amazing, Glynda. Thank you."
They walked side by side, chatting casually. As they entered the administration building, Glynda led Jaune to the front desk where a stern-looking receptionist sat. Glynda greeted her politely and explained their situation.
The receptionist, Mrs. Pine, adjusted her glasses and peered at the two young Huntsmen. "Paperwork can be quite a hassle, but I'm sure we can sort everything out. Let's start with your documents, Mr. Arc."
Jaune handed over a thick folder filled with forms and identification papers. Mrs. Pine began to sift through them, her brow furrowing as she came across various discrepancies and missing information.
"This is quite a mess," she muttered, more to herself than to them.
Glynda leaned closer to Jaune and whispered, "Don't worry, we'll get it sorted. Mrs. Pine is thorough, but she knows her stuff."
Jaune nodded, though he still looked a bit apprehensive. Glynda placed a reassuring hand on his arm, which made him flinch as they then waited patiently as Mrs. Pine worked through the documents.
After what felt like an eternity, Mrs. Pine finally looked up. "There are a few issues here, but nothing we can't fix. Mr. Arc, you'll need to fill out these additional forms and provide some extra documentation. Miss Goodwitch, your paperwork seems to be in order, but I'll need a few more signatures from you as well."
Glynda smiled. "Thank you, Mrs. Pine. We'll get it done."
They moved to a nearby table, where Glynda helped Jaune navigate the complex forms and requirements. Her efficient guidance and organizational skills made the process much smoother. Jaune was immensely grateful for her assistance, and they made steady progress.
As they worked, Glynda couldn't help but take a glance at Jaune. She had grown more confident and assertive, qualities that had served her well in her time here in Beacon. And yet she somewhat finds it odd to believe she'd have Jaune's natural air of a strong and dependable leader, someone she could always rely on.
After several hours, they finally completed all the necessary paperwork. Mrs. Pine reviewed everything once more and nodded in approval.
"Everything seems to be in order now. Mr. Arc, Ms. Goodwitch, you're both officially registered and cleared for your respective duties. Congratulations."
Jaune and Glynda exchanged relieved smiles. "Thank you so much, Mrs. Pine," Glynda said sincerely.
Mrs. Pine gave a rare, small smile. "You're welcome. Best of luck to both of you."
As they left the administration building, the sun was beginning to set, casting a warm, golden glow over the academy grounds. Glynda and Jaune walked towards the dormitories, basking in the peaceful evening.
"Thanks again, Glynda," Jaune said, his voice filled with genuine gratitude. "I don't know what I would have done without your help."
Glynda waved off his thanks with a smile. "You'd have figured it out, eventually. But I'm glad I could help. You've done much for me, Jaune. It's the least I could do."
They reached a bench and sat down, watching as the sky transformed into a canvas of orange and pink hues. The moment felt almost magical to Glynda, her heart fluttering slightly as she glanced at Jaune.
"Do you ever think about the future?" Jaune asked quietly, breaking the serene silence.
Glynda tilted her head, considering his question. "All the time. I wonder what kind of world we'll create, what kind of Huntsmen and Huntresses we'll become."
Jaune rubbed the back of his neck, a sheepish grin on his face. "Well, anyway, I wanted to thank you properly for your help. I thought maybe we could go out for a meal? My treat."
"Do you even have the funds?" Glynda teased, a playful smile tugging at her lips.
"Hey, I've been taking jobs, mostly as a traffic stop guard, helping kids cross, but hey, it pays."
"Well, that sounds lovely, Jaune. I'd be happy to join you."
With that, they left the gates of Beacon Academy together. As they walked away from the campus, Glynda took a long glance back at the familiar walls. There was a wistfulness in her eyes, a contemplation of what could have been. She had made a choice to leave Beacon after the mission she took, despite Ozpin's suggestion that she stays and join the teaching staff and his quest to save the world. The thought of it now made her wonder if her decision had been a reckless one, especially after her near-death experience on that mission where Jaune had saved her.
Jaune noticed her pensive expression and nudged her gently. "Penny for your thoughts?"
Glynda shook her head slightly, bringing herself back to the present. "Just thinking about choices and paths, I suppose."
"Oh brothers," Jaune nodded, understanding the sentiment. "Yeah, it's crazy how one decision can change everything."
They walked in comfortable silence for a while, enjoying the pleasant weather. Eventually, they arrived at a quaint little restaurant in the city. It was a charming place, with a cozy atmosphere and the mouthwatering scent of freshly cooked food wafting through the air.
Jaune held the door open for Glynda, and they were soon seated at a corner table by the window. The waiter brought menus, and they spent a few moments deciding on their orders. Once they had ordered, Jaune leaned back in his chair, looking relaxed and content.
"So, Glynda, are you working at Beacon now?" he asked casually.
Glynda shook her head, a small smile playing on her lips. "No, I'm not. I've been taking on missions and honing my skills as a Huntress instead."
Jaune looked genuinely surprised. "Really? I always thought you'd make a brilliant professor. You have this air of authority and knowledge. Plus, I bet you'd be really good at teaching others."
A faint blush colored Glynda's cheeks at the compliment. She wasn't used to such direct praise, especially from someone of his age. Most of her friends and colleagues seemed to think of her as strict, too disciplined, and all of that. But Jaune didn't seem to care.
No, he's just used to people of the same personality? Glynda guessed.
"Thank you, Jaune. That means a lot coming from you. I've considered it, but I felt like I needed to experience more of the world outside Beacon first."
Jaune nodded thoughtfully. "That makes sense. Still, I think you'd be amazing at it. The students would be lucky to have you."
Glynda felt a warmth spread through her at Jaune's words.
Their food arrived, and they dug in, enjoying the delicious meal and the simple conversation.
At one point, Glynda looked at Jaune with a thoughtful expression. "You know, Jaune, I think you're really suited to be a Huntsman."
Jaune smiled, a touch of pride in his eyes as he said jokingly, "Thanks, Glynda. I've had a lot of help along the way, from friends like you."
"Silly." Glynda shook her head with a raised brow. "You give me too much credit. All I did was help you with the paperwork. You've worked hard and earned your place."
Jaune simply smiled, as if Glynda wouldn't understand.
They continued their meal; the conversation flowing easily between them. Glynda found herself enjoying Jaune's company more than she had expected. There was a genuine warmth and sincerity to him that made her feel at ease. He was serene… as if he had seen something so grand that made him like this.
As they finished their dessert, Jaune leaned forward, a mischievous glint in his eyes. "You know, Glynda, if you ever decide to take up teaching at Beacon, I'd love to be one of your students. I think I could learn a lot from you."
"If I ever did, I doubt you'd be young enough to attend," Glynda laughed, feeling a lightness in her heart. "I'll keep that in mind if I ever decided to become one, Jaune. Who knows what the future holds?"
They left the restaurant, stepping out into the cool evening air. The sky was painted with hues of orange and pink as the sun set, casting a beautiful glow over the city. Glynda took a deep breath, feeling a sense of contentment.
"Thank you for the meal, Jaune. It was wonderful," she said sincerely.
Jaune smiled, looking pleased. "I'm glad you enjoyed it."
Glynda nodded. "I did."
As they walked around Vale, Jaune turned to her, a serious expression on his face. "Glynda, whatever you decide to do, just know that you have my support."
Why is he like this? Glynda thought as she felt a lump in her throat at his words. "Thank you, Jaune. That means more to me than you know."
"No problem," Jaune said.
A charged silence followed.
After a moment of silence, she turned to him, her curiosity getting the better of her. "Jaune, what's next for you?"
Jaune took a deep breath, his expression thoughtful. "I'm going to travel. There's still a lot of work to be done, a lot of good people who are troubled by Grimm. I can't just stay in one place when there are others who need help… and it's not like I have a place to call home in this time and place…"
Glynda nodded, understanding his sense of duty. But there was something in his tone, a hint of sadness and longing that she couldn't ignore. "What did you mean by that?"
Jaune hesitated, his eyes reflecting a distant pain. "It's... complicated. Let's just say I'm waiting for something that might take years to happen." He smiled, but it didn't quite reach his eyes. "But that's okay. I'll keep doing what I can in the meantime. I can keep on waiting. Always have been. I'll just keep moving forward."
Glynda watched him, feeling a mix of admiration and concern. Jaune was mysterious, kind, charming, and undeniably a gentleman. She found herself drawn to him in ways she hadn't anticipated. Oh, she had an idea what this was, and yet she can't exactly sidestep it, whiz it away with her Semblance like usual. Her own path seemed clear, but one bad day had shaken her resolve, making her question everything.
On a whim, she made a decision. "Jaune, what if we partnered up?"
Jaune looked taken aback, his eyes widening in surprise. "Uh, where did this come from?"
Glynda nodded, her mind made up. "I want to see Remnant. The deserts of Vacuo, the snowfields of Atlas, and the islands around Mistral. There's so much out there, and I want to experience it. I think we could do a lot of good together… as Huntsman and Huntress."
Jaune listened to her, his expression a mix of uncertainty and curiosity. "What about Beacon? Have you really given up on teaching?"
"Maybe one day," Glynda admitted. "But for now, I want to see the world and help where I can. And besides, I trust you, Jaune. You're a good man."
Jaune chuckled, though there was a hint of disbelief in his eyes. "You're awfully trusting for someone you've only known for a short time."
"Please, I don't think you're the kind who'd do that," Glynda smiled, her confidence unwavering. "I'd know if you were a bad guy."
There was a moment of silence as Jaune stared at her, his deep blue eyes seeming to see right through her. Glynda felt her cheeks warm and her heart begin to pound under his gaze.
"You're really young aren't you?" Jaune said softly, almost as if speaking to himself.
Glynda frowned slightly, not understanding his meaning. "What's that supposed to mean?"
Jaune shook his head, his smile returning. "Nothing. Well, I'm leaving in two days. If you decide to join me, we can meet up then."
"Good. Let's exchange mail and number. I've recently changed it."
"Why?"
"I almost died, Jaune. And I have a feeling that a certain somebody might use me for information. Honestly, I just want to stay away from all of that right now."
"Oh, here's mine," Jaune pulled a strange scroll. It was quite advanced and somewhat expensive compared to hers.
"Is that a custom, scroll?"
"Yeah."
"I see," Glynda nodded, a sense of anticipation and excitement building within her but also question on where Jaune got his scroll. "Alright. I'll be there."
As Jaune walked away, blending into the bustling city crowd, Glynda watched him go, her mind racing with possibilities. Her heart was set on a new path, one that promised adventure and discovery.
Glynda took a last look at the towering spires of Beacon Academy, the place that had been her home and sanctuary.
She had made her choice.
With determination in her step and hope in her heart, Glynda turned and walked towards her place to prepare for the journey ahead.
Two days later, as the sun rose over the horizon, Glynda stood at the meeting place, her belongings packed and ready. Jaune was waiting for her, his smile warm and welcoming, but also surprised.
"Ready for travel?" he asked, his eyes sparkling with excitement.
"More than ever," Glynda replied, feeling a sense of exhilaration.
Together, they stepped out into the world.
Ozpin walked through the halls of Beacon Academy, the echoes of his footsteps filling the quiet morning air. The school was a sanctuary for aspiring Huntsmen and Huntresses, a place of learning and growth. Today, however, his thoughts were preoccupied with an important meeting. He was on his way to see Solomon, the Headmaster of Vale, whose opinion he held in high esteem.
The corridors of Beacon were bathed in the soft glow of the rising sun, casting long shadows that danced on the polished floors. Ozpin paused for a moment outside Solomon's office, the door slightly ajar, and knocked gently before pushing it open. Inside, Solomon sat behind a large oak desk, papers neatly arranged around him. He looked up and smiled as Ozpin entered.
"Ozpin, always a pleasure," Solomon greeted warmly, rising to shake his hand.
"Likewise, Solomon," Ozpin replied, taking a seat across from the headmaster. "Thank you for seeing me on such short notice."
Solomon waved a hand dismissively. "Not at all. I always have time for you, Oz. What brings you here today?"
Ozpin leaned back in his chair, gathering his thoughts. "I wanted to discuss a few things, particularly about our recent graduates. Glynda Goodwitch, for one."
Solomon raised an eyebrow. "Glynda? Ah, yes, quite a promising Huntress. I'm genuinely surprised she didn't stay on to teach. She has the makings of an excellent instructor."
Ozpin sighed, a touch of regret in his eyes. "It's a shame, really. She has so much potential in that regard. But perhaps she found something else she wants to do, something beyond saving the world."
Solomon nodded thoughtfully. "She's young. Maybe she needs to explore the world a bit before settling down. You might have been too hasty in trying to recruit her."
Ozpin chuckled softly. "Perhaps. I thought her talents would be best utilized here, guiding the next generation. But I suppose I'll try again in the future."
Solomon smirked, leaning forward slightly. "That might be difficult. I hear she's planning to travel."
Ozpin looked surprised. "Travel? Alone?"
The headmaster shook his head. "No, from what I've heard, she intends to partner up with that knight she brought back from outside the kingdoms."
Ozpin's eyes narrowed in thought. "Jaune Arc, was it?"
"Yes, him," Solomon confirmed. "He passed with flying colors and has quite a semblance, too. Those two roaming Remnant will be quite a duo."
Ozpin's curiosity was piqued. "What is your assessment of this Jaune Arc?"
Solomon leaned back, contemplating his words. "Charming, like a knight, and certainly skilled. He's a strange lad with a good heart. Sometimes he looks like a fish out of water, though."
Ozpin nodded slowly, absorbing the information. "Quite the assessment."
Solomon shrugged. "I go with my gut. If Glynda trusts him, then perhaps she sees something we don't."
Ozpin sighed, a mix of emotions crossing his face. "It's a shame. I really thought she'd join us here."
"Don't push people too hard, Oz," Solomon advised gently. "It's her choice, and you have to respect that."
Ozpin nodded, conceding the point. "Oh, I know. But in a way, I'm glad she found something else. Glynda's... strict with herself, and perhaps this is the best thing for her."
Solomon's expression turned serious. "Any news about your former wife?"
Ozpin's face darkened slightly. "Please, Solomon."
"It's the truth," Solomon said, unflinching.
Ozpin sighed deeply, rubbing his temples. "There has been no news. But I believe that ten years from now, or so, she'll start making her moves."
Solomon's eyes hardened. "We need to be prepared. Her return could spell disaster if we're not ready."
Ozpin nodded, the weight of responsibility heavy on his shoulders. "I know. We're doing everything we can to strengthen our defenses and train our students. But it's always in the back of my mind."
Solomon leaned forward, his gaze intense. "We'll face it together, Oz. Beacon has always stood strong, and it will continue to do so."
Ozpin managed a small smile. "Thank you, Headmaster. Your support means a great deal to me."
The two men sat in silence for a moment, the gravity of their conversation hanging in the air. Ozpin appreciated Solomon's straightforward approach, even when discussing such sensitive topics. It was one of the reasons he valued their partnership so much.
"By the way," Solomon said, breaking the silence, "have you considered what Glynda and Jaune's travels might mean for us? They could gather valuable information, form alliances, and spread our influence."
Ozpin's eyes lit up with a spark of hope. "That's a good point. Perhaps their journey will benefit us in ways we haven't considered."
Solomon nodded. "Exactly. They might not be here physically, but they can still contribute to our cause."
Ozpin felt a renewed sense of purpose. "You're right. I'll keep that in mind. And I'll make sure to stay in touch with them, see how they're faring and if they need any support."
Solomon smiled. "Good. It's important to let them know we're here for them, even if they're not within our walls."
The conversation shifted to other topics, the two headmasters discussing strategies and future plans for Beacon Academy. As they talked, Ozpin couldn't help but feel a sense of optimism. Glynda and Jaune's journey might be unconventional, but it held a potential to give them an advantage against their perpetual enemy.
After some time, Ozpin rose to leave. "Thank you for your time, Solomon. This has been a productive discussion."
Solomon stood and shook his hand firmly. "Anytime, Oz. Remember, we're in this together."
As Ozpin walked back through the halls of Beacon, his mind was racing with possibilities. Arriving at his office, Ozpin sat at his desk, turning on his computer. He drafted a mail to Glynda, wishing her well on her travels and offering any support she might need while also informing her of his request.
Not knowing that Glynda got herself a new number and mail after she got back in Vale.
