Glynda Goodwitch, a fresh graduate from Beacon Academy, walked side by side with Jaune Arc as they entered a small rustic village nestled in the mountains North of Sanus. The cobblestone streets were lined with quaint houses, their rooftops covered in a thin layer of snow that sparkled under the morning sun. From what Glynda heard, it was the wind from Solitas that carried the snow. Villagers moved about their daily routines, casting curious glances at the two Huntsmen.
Jaune wore his usual outfit, but covered in a surcoat that made him more knightly than ever, a helmet was strapped to his waist. Glynda herself wore her light-blonde hair tied back in a bun with a curl hanging down the right side of her face. Her thin ovular glasses obscuring her bright green eyes.. She has dangling teal earrings that match the hanging pendant on her collar.
She wears a white, long-sleeved pleated blouse that has a wide keyhole neckline and gauntlet cuffs that flare in pleats at the wrist. Her lower body was covered by a black leather pants. She had almost worn her pencil skirt, but thinking about what happened to her mission, she opted to wear a more much flexible lower garment that wouldn't get in her way in a fight. She also wears black boots and a cape that is purple inside and black on the outside. The cut of the cape was stylized to end in flames and arrows, with a row of diamond-shaped bronze beads on the back that had her personal emblem.
"There's been talk of a giant Grimm in the area," Glynda began, her tone serious and measured. "An ancient one, by the sound of it. It's been roaming Remnant for longer than most can remember and there's been only one who's keeping on fighting these things."
Jaune adjusted the strap of his sword, Crocea Mors, on his shoulder and raised an eyebrow. "Ancient Grimm huh? I know they could live that long, but were there always so many? Who took it down last time?"
"The Grimm Reaper," Glynda replied, her voice tinged with reverence. "She's a legend among Huntresses. Known for her prowess and feared by Grimm everywhere."
Jaune's eyes widened with curiosity. "The Grimm Reaper? I've never heard of her. Do you know more about her?"
Glynda shook her head, a small smile playing on her lips. "Not much, I'm afraid. Her real identity remains a mystery. All we know is that she was unmatched in combat and had a fearsome reputation."
"So, is that what we're doing here?" Jaune asked, his voice tinged with composure. "Hunting down this ancient Grimm?"
Glynda nodded, her expression turning serious again. "Yes, but it's more than just a hunt. As proper Huntsmen and Huntresses, it is our duty to eliminate Grimm, but we can't be reckless. We need to gather as much information as possible before engaging it."
"And because we also need funds?"
"Correct."
Jaune nodded in agreement, impressed by Glynda's diligence. "You're really thorough. I guess that's why you are top of your class."
Glynda's cheeks flushed slightly, and she quickly composed herself, hiding a smile that hinted at more personal feelings. "Thank you, Jaune. We should start our investigation by talking to the villagers."
The duo approached the village square, where a group of elders were gathered around a large wooden table. The elders looked up as Jaune and Glynda approached, their faces etched with lines of worry.
"Good morning," Glynda greeted them with a respectful nod. "We're Huntsmen from Vake, here to investigate reports of a giant Grimm in the area. Can you tell us more about it?"
One of the elders, a gray-haired man with a weathered face, spoke up. "We've seen it several times near the old forest. It's massive, with eyes that glow red like the fires of hell. It comes out at night, terrorizing our livestock and destroying our crops."
Another elder, a woman with kind eyes and a gentle demeanor, added, "We've lost many brave souls trying to fend it off. None have returned."
Jaune exchanged a worried glance with Glynda. "Has anyone seen where it goes during the day?" he asked.
The gray-haired elder shook his head. "It vanishes at dawn, and no one has dared to follow it into the forest."
Glynda thanked the elders and turned to Jaune. "We should head to the forest and look for clues. Maybe we can find its lair."
Jaune nodded, determination in his eyes. "Let's do it. And everyone, please it to us. For now, please avoid sending any more people."
A little girl tugged on Jaune's surcoat. "Um, are you going to kill that evil monster, Mr. Knight?"
Glynda looked at Jaune with amusement. Despite the short few wees they've been traveling together, there was something undeniably endearing about him. Children often mistook him for a character straight out of a fairy tale. Glynda couldn't help but chuckle at the thought. All he needed was a bit of rust on his armor, and he could easily pass for the Rusted Knight himself. Tall, handsome, and kind-hearted, Jaune seemed to embody everything that fairy tale heroes were made of. He was always ready to lend a hand, save the day, and bring hope to those around him.
She remembered the conversation they had about this peculiar phenomenon. "Do you know," she had said with a twinkle in her eye, "that children think you're the Rusted Knight?"
Jaune had laughed, a deep, genuine laugh that always made her heart feel a little lighter. "I've heard that a few times," he admitted. "It's flattering, but also embarrassing. I'm no fairy-tale hero."
Glynda had disagreed, and she had made her case passionately. "Fairy tales resonate with people because they embody ideals. The Rusted Knight is a symbol of bravery, resilience, and kindness. You have all those qualities, Jaune. Is it that weird why people see you in that light? Especially with that look?"
He had seemed to ponder her words for a moment before replying with a strangely bitter tone, "I suppose you're right. Still, it's a lot to live up to. I like the idea, but it also makes me uncomfortable. I'm just me, after all. Just Jaune Arc…nothing more, nothing less."
In truth, Glynda could understand his mixed feelings. The fairy tale of the Rusted Knight was a cherished story. Glynda herself had always held a special place in her heart for the tale of the Rusted Knight. Many of her colleagues, herself included, had grown up admiring the knight's courage and selflessness.
Shrugging off her thoughts, she turned her attention to Jaune, who was crouching in front of a child, gently placing his palm on top of her head.
"I will."
"See guys!?"
As she watched Jaune interacting with the children, she couldn't help but smile. They swarmed around him, eyes wide with awe and excitement, their faces lighting up with pure joy. The way they flocked to him, so fond and adoring, stirred a bittersweet feeling within her. Their adoration for him was palpable, and though she cherished seeing them so happy, she couldn't deny the occasional pang of jealousy it evoked.
As the two made their way out of the village and into the dense forest. The trees towered above them, their branches forming a canopy that blocked out most of the sunlight. The air was thick with the scent of pine and damp earth.
"Stay alert," Glynda cautioned. "This Grimm could be anywhere."
They moved cautiously, scanning their surroundings for any signs of the creature. After several minutes of searching, Jaune noticed a set of large, deep tracks on the ground.
"Over here," he called out to Glynda.
She hurried over and examined the tracks. "These are fresh. It must have passed through here recently."
Following the tracks deeper into the forest, they eventually came across a clearing. In the center of the clearing stood a massive, ancient tree with gnarled roots and a trunk that seemed to stretch to the heavens. The ground around the tree was scorched and barren, as if the life had been sucked out of it.
"This must be where it rests during the day," Glynda said, her voice barely above a whisper.
As they approached the tree, a low, menacing growl echoed through the clearing. Jaune and Glynda froze, their hands instinctively reaching for their weapons. Emerging from behind the tree was the ancient Grimm, its hulking form casting a dark shadow over the clearing. Its eyes glowed with an eerie red light, and its black, skeletal body seemed to absorb the light around it.
"Ready, Jaune?" Glynda asked, her voice steady despite the fear that gripped her.
Jaune nodded, his grip tightening on his sword. "Ready."
The Grimm roared, a guttural, bone-chilling sound that reverberated through the clearing and sent birds fleeing from the trees. The ground shook beneath their feet as the creature charged at them with terrifying speed, its massive form blurring in the dim light. Each of its footsteps left deep imprints in the earth, a testament to its sheer weight and power.
Glynda moved first, her Semblance activating with a flick of her wrist. A shimmering, translucent barrier formed in front of her, crackling with raw energy. The Grimm collided with the shield with a thunderous crash, the force of the impact sending shockwaves through the air. Glynda's face contorted with effort, but she held firm, the shield absorbing the brunt of the attack.
"Jaune, now!" she shouted, her voice strained.
Jaune leaped into action, his heart pounding in his chest. He swung Crocea Mors with all his might, the blade slicing through the air with a sharp whistle. The sword struck the Grimm's hide, but the creature's tough, leathery skin deflected the blow, leaving only a shallow scratch. The Grimm roared again, a sound of pure rage, and swiped at Jaune with its massive claws. He dodged just in time, rolling to the side and coming up with his sword ready.
Glynda's eyes narrowed in concentration as she unleashed a barrage of telekinetic blasts. Each strike hit the Grimm with enough force to stagger it, but the creature was resilient, shaking off the attacks and lunging at her with renewed fury. Glynda jumped back, narrowly avoiding its deadly claws, her breath coming in quick, controlled bursts.
"We need to find its weak spot," Glynda called out, her mind racing through possibilities.
Jaune nodded, his eyes scanning the Grimm for any signs of vulnerability. Amid the chaos of the battle, he noticed a faint, glowing red mark on its chest, partially hidden by its bone armor. The mark pulsed with a sinister light, almost as if it were the creature's heart.
"Glynda, it's chest!" he shouted. "There's a weak spot!"
Glynda redirected her focus, her telekinetic blasts honing in on the glowing mark. Each hit seemed to affect the Grimm more than the last, its movements becoming more erratic and desperate. The creature howled in pain, the sound grating against their ears. Seeing an opening, Jaune charged at the Grimm with his sword raised high, his muscles burning with exertion.
With a powerful aura-infused swing, he struck the weak spot, his blade piercing through the Grimm's armor and sinking deep into its flesh. The creature let out a final, ear-piercing scream, a sound that seemed to shake the very fabric of the forest. Its body convulsed violently before collapsing to the ground, disintegrating into a cloud of thick, black smoke that swirled and dissipated into the air.
Jaune and Glynda stood panting, their weapons still drawn, as the last remnants of the smoke drifted away. They had done it. The ancient Grimm was defeated. Glynda's legs trembled slightly, the adrenaline of the fight slowly ebbing away.
"Well done, Jaune," Glynda said, a proud smile breaking through her exhausted expression.
Jaune grinned, his exhaustion momentarily forgotten in the euphoria of victory. "We make a pretty good team, don't we?"
Glynda nodded, her smile widening. "Yes, we do."
Then Jaune looked around suddenly.
"Do you hear that?" Jaune asked, his head snapping up, his eyes scanning the sky.
Before Glynda could respond, a massive shadow blotted out the skies above them. A giant Nevermore, its wingspan easily eclipsing the sun, swooped down from the sky with terrifying speed. Its feathers were like sharp blades, and its red eyes glowed with malevolent intelligence.
"Jaune, watch out!" Glynda shouted, but it was too late.
Jaune deployed his shield just in time to absorb the impact as the Nevermore rammed into him, sending him sprawling across the ground, aura shimmering. The force of the attack left him momentarily dazed, but he quickly recovered, rolling to his feet and raising his shield to defend against another strike. The Nevermore screeched, its beak snapping inches from Jaune's face.
With a burst of speed, Jaune shifted his weight, grabbing the Nevermore's beak with both hands. His muscles strained as he fought to keep the creature at bay, the sheer strength of the Grimm almost overwhelming. He swung his sword wildly with one hand, managing to land a few glancing blows on the creature's tough hide.
Glynda watched in awe and horror as Jaune struggled mid-air, his determination unwavering. The sight of him hanging on to the Nevermore's beak, his body twisting and turning as he fought, was both inspiring and terrifying.
"I can't let him do this alone," Glynda muttered to herself, her resolve hardening.
Using her Semblance, she launched herself into the air, her body propelled by telekinetic force. The strain on her Aura was immense, but she pushed through, her determination fueling her actions. Glynda soared upward, her eyes locked on the Nevermore as it flapped its massive wings, trying to shake Jaune off.
Catching up to the Nevermore was no easy task. The wind howled around her, and the effort required to maintain her flight was draining her Aura rapidly. Glynda gritted her teeth, focusing every ounce of her willpower on reaching the Grimm. She could feel her energy waning, but she couldn't afford to stop now.
Finally, she was close enough. With a powerful surge of telekinetic energy, she latched onto the Nevermore, pinning it in place. The creature screeched in fury, its wings beating furiously against the invisible force holding it down. Jaune seized the opportunity, using the momentum to launch himself upward. He gathered his Aura, channeling it into Crocea Mors, and with a mighty swing, he beheaded the Grimm in one fell swoop.
The Nevermore's body went limp, and Glynda released her grip, letting the lifeless form plummet to the ground below. She breathed a sigh of relief, but the sudden loss of concentration caused her to falter. Her Aura flickered, and she began to fall, panic rising in her chest as she struggled to regain control.
"Not now," she muttered, trying to jumpstart her Aura. But the fall was too fast, and she couldn't focus.
Just as she was about to hit the ground, a strong arm wrapped around her waist. She looked up to see Jaune, his face a mix of determination and concern, holding onto her tightly. He deployed his shield up, using it as a makeshift glider to slow their descent.
"Gotcha," Jaune said with a grin, his eyes twinkling with relief.
Glynda's heart pounded in her chest, a mix of embarrassment and gratitude flooding through her. She had prided herself on her professionalism, yet here she was, saved by Jaune in a moment of weakness. She couldn't help but feel a flutter of something more in her chest, something she hadn't felt before.
As they gently glided to the ground, Jaune's dorky smile and apologetic tone only added to her flustered state. "Sorry about that, and thanks for the help up there. Couldn't have done it without you."
Glynda chuckled, a genuine, hearty sound that surprised even her. It was as if the tension of the past few days had finally found an outlet. She laughed freely, the sound echoing everywhere.
Jaune looked somewhat confused at first, but then he smiled, the expression softening his features. "What's so funny?"
Glynda shook her head, still smiling. "Nothing, Jaune. Just glad we're both okay."
The return to the village was surreal, the stark contrast between the hard battle and the warm, golden glow of the setting sun making everything seem almost dreamlike. The villagers greeted them with cheers and gratitude, their faces alight with relief and joy. The gray-haired elder approached them, tears of gratitude glistening in his eyes.
"Thank you," he said, his voice choked with emotion. "You have saved our village."
Glynda and Jaune exchanged a look of satisfaction. This was what it meant to be a Huntsman and a Huntress — to protect those who couldn't protect themselves, to stand against the darkness and emerge victorious. The feeling was both humbling and exhilarating.
The villagers, their fear replaced by hope, began to gather around a large bonfire that crackled in the village square. They sang songs of gratitude and joy, their voices rising into the night sky. Children danced around the fire, their laughter ringing out like a balm to Jaune and Glynda.
"Looks like we're heroes," Jaune said, a hint of pride in his voice.
Glynda chuckled softly, the sound warm and genuine. "For now. There will always be more battles, more Grimm to fight. But tonight, let's take a moment to enjoy this victory."
They found a quiet spot on the edge of the village, overlooking the bonfire and the joyous celebrations. Jaune leaned against a tree, his sword resting beside him. Glynda sat nearby, her eyes reflecting the flickering flames.
"Think we'll ever get used to this?" Jaune asked, his voice thoughtful.
Glynda glanced at him, her smile softening. "Maybe. But I think it's the unpredictability that keeps us sharp. Every battle is different, and we learn something new each time."
Jaune nodded, his gaze returning to the sky. "You're right. And as long as we have each other's back, I think we can handle anything."
She liked that confidence and that trust.
Glynda felt a warmth spread through her at his words.
She felt silly.
Hiding her face away, gathering her composure as best as she could.
The dawn sky painted the horizon in shades of pink and orange, the village still quiet under the early morning light.
"We need to head to Vytal Island," Glynda said, her voice breaking the tranquil silence.
Jaune tilted his head, a curious look in his eyes. "I haven't been around there much," he admitted.
Glynda raised an eyebrow. "Where have you been then, Jaune?"
He scratched the back of his head, a sheepish smile on his face. "Well, I've been all over Remnant, except for Vacuo."
Glynda's eyes narrowed slightly, a hint of skepticism creeping into her expression. "Then why do you seem so unfamiliar with the roads? You move like a fish out of water sometimes."
Jaune sighed, his smile fading. "I was stranded outside the Kingdoms for a while. It feels like it was twenty years or something."
Glynda noticed the bitterness in his voice, the way his smile didn't quite reach his eyes. He spoke as if it were a joke, but there was an underlying pain that tugged at her heart. She decided not to press him further, respecting the unspoken boundaries of his past.
"Alright," she said, taking charge. "We need to make travel plans. Vytal Island isn't exactly next door, and we need to be prepared for anything."
As Glynda began outlining their route, the supplies they would need, and potential dangers along the way, Jaune listened attentively. His focus on her words was unexpected; most people grew annoyed when lectured, but Jaune seemed almost accustomed to it, absorbing every detail with a calm demeanor.
"You know," Glynda said, her tone softening, "we were quite reckless back there. We need to be more careful in the future."
Jaune nodded, his expression serious. "I understand. I'll do better."
Internally, Glynda felt a wave of frustration. Why did he have to be so agreeable? Most people would push back, but Jaune just accepted her guidance without complaint. It reminded her of the suspension bridge effect, where heightened emotions in a stressful situation could lead to misplaced feelings. Maybe that was it? She mentally chastised herself, realizing she was traveling with someone she might be developing feelings for, and screamed internally at the realization.
Taking a deep breath, she refocused her thoughts on the task at hand. They needed to be ready to leave by the next day. The villagers had been kind, providing them with fresh supplies and directions to the nearest port. By the next morning, they were ready. The villagers gathered to see them off, their faces filled with gratitude and well-wishes. The gray-haired elder who had first spoken to them stepped forward, holding a small, intricately carved wooden talisman.
"This is a token of our thanks," he said, pressing the talisman into Glynda's hand. "May it bring you luck and protection on your journey."
Glynda accepted the gift with a nod of appreciation. "Thank you."
Jaune slung his pack over his shoulder, giving the villagers a reassuring smile. "Take care, everyone. We'll be back someday to visit."
With that, Glynda and Jaune set off, the path ahead of them winding through the forest and towards the distant coastline. The air was cool and crisp, the forest alive with the sounds of birds and rustling leaves. They walked in companionable silence for a while, each lost in their own thoughts.
As they traveled, Glynda couldn't help but steal glances at Jaune. There was a quiet strength about him, a resilience that she admired. Despite his seemingly carefree attitude, there was a depth to him that intrigued her. She wondered what experiences had shaped him, what challenges he had faced during his time outside the Kingdoms.
"Jaune," Glynda said after a while, breaking the silence. "What was it like, being stranded outside the Kingdoms?"
He glanced at her, his expression thoughtful. "It was tough. I had to learn to survive on my own, facing monsters and other dangers without the support of a team. But it also taught me a lot about myself, about my strengths and weaknesses… it wasn't a good time, mind you."
Glynda nodded, understanding the weight of his words. "It sounds like you've been through a lot."
"I mostly waited for someone to help me, staring at the beach, watching the skies and stuff like that," Jaune said. "Had to take care of people who were fragile, like paper. I kept them out of danger because, although they were kind, they could be dangerous in their naivety. Gosh, if you'd seen that place, Glynda, it would change you."
"Maybe you want to visit?"
"Not really," Jaune said immediately. "I've had enough of that place. Besides, it's not a place you go, but a place you know."
"Is that so? Well, I'm glad you're helping me with this journey."
"Well, I'm traveling too, and having a kickass Huntress like you backing me up is pretty nice."
"You're not bad yourself, Jaune Arc."
Jaune smiled, a genuine warmth in his eyes. "Thanks, Glynda. That means a lot."
They continued their journey. The road to Vytal Island was long, but they faced each challenge with determination and unwavering support for each other.
As they approached the port, the smell of saltwater filled the air, and the sound of seagulls echoed above. Ships of various sizes were docked along the pier, their steely forms of in the breeze. Glynda and Jaune made their way to the harbormaster's office, a small building overlooking the bustling port.
Inside, the harbormaster, a grizzled man with a thick beard, looked up from his paperwork as they entered. "What can I do for you two?" he asked, his voice rough but not unkind.
"We need passage to Vytal Island," Glynda said, her tone firm and professional.
The harbor master raised an eyebrow. "Vytal Island, eh? It's not the easiest trip. Dangerous waters and all that."
"We're Huntsmen," Jaune added, stepping forward. "We can handle ourselves."
The harbor master studied them for a moment before nodding. "Alright. There's a ship leaving tomorrow at dawn. Captain's name is Marlow. He'll take you where you need to go."
Glynda thanked the harbor master and turned to Jaune. "We have some time to rest and gather any last-minute supplies. Let's make sure we're ready."
They spent the rest of the day exploring the port town, purchasing additional provisions and ensuring their gear was in top condition. As the sun set over the ocean, casting a golden glow across the water, they found a quiet spot on the beach to sit and reflect.
Glynda watched the waves crash against the shore, her thoughts drifting to the journey ahead. If she had agreed with Oz's request, would she have this view? She doesn't know how to explain it other than feeling like a bird out of a cage. It was unlike her. But this felt right.
"Do you think we'll find what we're looking for on Vytal Island?" Jaune asked, his voice breaking the peaceful silence.
Glynda turned to him, a determined look in her eyes. "I believe we will. The community's been going on about it and all I could read is strong Grimm."
Jaune nodded, his expression mirroring her resolve. "Must be hard if other Huntsmen can't do it."
"And that's why we're trying our luck at it."
"Man, you're really fearless yourself, Miss Goodwitch. Hah, no wonder… you could protect Vale all by yourself…"
Glynda narrowed her eyes as she sighed. "Miss Goodwitch again?"
"I mean, Glynda, ah, I'm just speaking nonsense."
It was always strange. Glynda appreciates the confidence, but Jaune seems so sure sometimes she could do things like that. It wasn't a bad feeling, but it feels odd sometimes.
It's charming though, Glynda thought, cheeks warming up again.
As the stars began to twinkle above them, they made their way back to the inn where they were staying.
The next morning, they boarded Captain Marlow's ship, the salty sea breeze filling their lungs as they set sail for Vytal Island. The journey was filled with both excitement and trepidation, the vast expanse of ocean stretching out before them a reminder of the challenges that lay ahead.
As the ship cut through the waves, Glynda stood at the bow, the wind whipping through her hair.
Finally, they saw the shores of Vytal Island.
The island itself was a sight to behold, with its lush greenery and pristine beaches. But there was tension in the air that was palpable. An air that only made the two worry as they saw a team of Huntsmen waiting in the port, clearly injured, hoping to get out of the island.
Jaune stopped one huntsman. The huntsman scowled at Jaune, but the moment Jaune raised his palm, covering him with the healing light of his Semblance, the huntsman's expression changed.
"What happened?" Jaune asked, channeling his aura into the huntsman.
The man looked relaxed as he channeled his aura. "There's a weird Grimm around," he said with a shaken voice. "At first we thought it was easy prey, but the damn monster grew wings."
Glynda saw Jaune's expression turned serious.
"What Grimm is it?"
"I don't know," the huntsman's wounds lessened as he then spat the next words with malice. "But we just call that bastard a Hound."