Chapter 2 : the Schola

After the meeting with Ozpin, Team RWBY led Octavius through the winding halls of Beacon Academy. The building's towering architecture and the buzz of student activity were a stark contrast to the war-torn landscapes he was used to. Yet, despite the unfamiliar surroundings, Octavius kept his composure, his expression stern but calm.

Ruby, walking beside him, tried to keep the mood light. "So, Octavius, we're heading to your room now. It's actually a special one—they originally made it for a teacher, but since you're not exactly a typical student, Ozpin thought it would be a good fit for you."

Weiss nodded, walking slightly ahead. "It's more private and spacious than the usual student quarters. You'll have your own space,"

Blake, quietly observing Octavius, added, "You'll have everything you need to be comfortable. And if you need anything else, just let us know."

Yang brought up the rear, her usual playful demeanor somewhat subdued in the presence of their new companion. "It's a nice room, really. Plus, it's close to the training areas, so you won't have to go far to go to combat class."

They finally reached a large door at the end of one of the academy's quieter corridors. Weiss stepped forward, opening the door and gesturing for Octavius to enter.

The room was indeed more spacious than the typical student quarters. It had a large bed, a sturdy desk, and a small sitting area with comfortable chairs. The walls were adorned with simple, elegant decorations—nothing too elaborate, but tasteful enough to befit someone of Octavius's stature. A large window offered a view of the academy grounds, with the Emerald Forest stretching out in the distance.

Octavius stepped inside, his sharp eyes taking in every detail. The room was unlike any he had stayed in before, yet it was functional and efficient, with an air of quiet dignity that he appreciated.

"This will suffice," Octavius said, his tone even. He turned to face the team, offering a small, respectful nod. "Thank you for your assistance."

Ruby smiled brightly. "We're happy to help! We'll let you get settled in. If you need anything, our room isn't too far from here."

Weiss handed him a scroll, a simple device used by the people of Remnant. "This is how we stay in touch. If you need to reach any of us or if something comes up, just use this."

Octavius accepted the scroll, examining it briefly before placing it on the desk.

"Understood." he said

Yang, leaning casually against the doorframe, gave him a thumbs-up. "Don't be a stranger, alright? We'll be around if you want to hang out or, you know, get to know Beacon a bit better."

Blake, standing beside her, offered a supportive smile. "Class will begin tomorrow morning. You're welcome to join us."

Octavius appreciated the camaraderie they were extending, even if it was foreign to him. "I will consider it."

With that, the team began to make their way out, Ruby giving him one last cheerful wave before the door closed behind them. Octavius was left alone in the quiet of his new quarters.

He stood for a moment, contemplating the unexpected turn his life had taken. This room, this world—it was all so different from the battlefields and regiments he had known. But the duty of a Commissar was to adapt, to lead, and to survive, no matter the circumstances.

The next morning, the sun rose over Beacon Academy, casting a warm glow across the sprawling campus. The halls buzzed with the chatter of students heading to their first classes of the day. In his private quarters, Octavius von Steelheart stood before a mirror, studying his reflection with a mixture of discomfort and mild resignation.

He was dressed in the standard Beacon Academy uniform—a stark contrast to the imposing black greatcoat of a Commissar that he was accustomed to. The uniform, while finely made, felt strange against his skin. It was lighter, softer, and far less intimidating than the garb that had been his second skin for years. He adjusted the collar and tugged at the fabric, his expression a mix of frustration and bemusement.

The uniform, while practical for Beacon's environment, lacked the weight and symbolism of his usual attire. There was no sign of the medals and honors he had earned, no bolter strapped across his chest, no chainsword at his hip. It felt as though he had shed a part of himself—a reminder of the life he had led, the battles he had fought, and the sacrifices he had made.

Yet, Octavius knew that this was part of adapting to his new circumstances. Ozpin had asked him to integrate, to learn, and to contribute to Beacon in a way that would benefit both himself and those around him. And while the uniform felt foreign and uncomfortable, it was a necessary concession.

Taking a deep breath, Octavius straightened his posture, his steely gray eyes reflecting determination as he resolved to face this new day with the same discipline and resolve that had carried him through countless battles.

A soft knock on the door interrupted his thoughts. "Octavius, are you ready?" Ruby's voice called from the hallway.

Octavius gave one last glance at his reflection before turning away from the mirror. "I am," he replied, his voice calm and composed.

He opened the door to find Ruby, Weiss, Blake, and Yang waiting for him, all dressed in their own Beacon uniforms. Ruby grinned as she looked him over. "You look great! The uniform suits you."

Octavius gave a slight nod, though his expression remained stoic. "It is... different, but it will suffice."

Weiss noticed his discomfort and offered a reassuring smile. "It might take some getting used to, but you'll fit right in. We're all in this together."

Blake added, "And remember, you're still you, no matter what you're wearing. The uniform doesn't change who you are."

Yang chuckled. "Yeah, and besides, if anyone gives you a hard time, just give them that famous Commissar glare of yours. That should do the trick."

Octavius allowed a small, almost imperceptible smile to touch his lips. "I shall keep that in mind."

With that, the group set off for their first class of the day. As they walked through the bustling corridors of Beacon, Octavius couldn't help but feel the eyes of other students on him—some curious, some impressed, and others simply confused by the presence of this new, enigmatic figure among them.

Despite his discomfort, Octavius moved with the confidence and bearing of a soldier, his every step measured and purposeful. As they arrived at their classroom, he took a deep breath, ready to face whatever challenges this new day would bring.

Inside the classroom, Professor Port was already at the front of the room, regaling the students with one of his famous (and lengthy) tales. As Octavius and Team RWBY took their seats, all eyes turned toward them, or more specifically, toward Octavius.

"Ah, I see we have a new face among us today!" Professor Port boomed, his voice echoing through the room. "Welcome, young man! I am Professor Peter Port, and it is an honor to have you join us."

Octavius inclined his head respectfully. "Thank you, Professor."

Port smiled broadly. "Now, let's begin today's lesson!

The class buzzed with whispers as students exchanged glances, intrigued by the newcomer's formal demeanor and the aura of authority he carried. With the introduction complete, Octavius took his seat, ready to engage with the lessons ahead, determined to make the most of his time at Beacon, even if it meant adjusting to the unfamiliar comfort of his new uniform.

Professor Port launched into his lecture, describing the characteristics and behaviors of various Grimm. Octavius listened intently, absorbing the information with the disciplined focus that had been drilled into him through years of training. Though the subject matter was different from the enemies he had faced in the Imperium, the parallels between the Grimm and the xenos he had battled were clear. Both were relentless, mindless forces of destruction, and understanding their behavior was key to defeating them, but he can't help that the Grimm were nothing compared to the likes of the Necrons or the Tyranids.

Ruby, sitting beside him, occasionally glanced in his direction, curious about what he was thinking. It was clear that Octavius was not just another student—his every action and word reflected a lifetime of experience that was far beyond what any of them could truly understand. Despite the uniform and the classroom setting, he carried himself with the same authority and resolve as he had when they first met him in the Emerald Forest.

After what felt like an eternity of Professor Port's booming voice filling the room, the class finally drew to a close. Students began packing up their things, chatting among themselves as they prepared to move on to their next class. Octavius remained seated for a moment longer, deep in thought as he processed the information he had just learned.

Ruby nudged him gently. "Ready to go? We've got Combat Class next with Professor Goodwitch. You'll probably like that one."

Octavius nodded, standing and gathering his things. "I look forward to it. Combat is something I am more familiar with."

Yang grinned, slinging her bag over her shoulder. "Now that's the spirit! Can't wait to see what you can do in a fight."

Blake added, "You'll fit right in during Combat Class. Professor Goodwitch runs a tight ship, but it's all about honing your skills."

Weiss, was already leading the way out of the classroom.

As they made their way to the training arena, Octavius couldn't help but feel a sense of anticipation. The unfamiliarity of the classroom setting had been challenging, but combat—combat was where he felt most at home. It was where he could prove himself, even in this strange new world.

The combat arena was a large, open space designed to simulate various environments and scenarios. As Team RWBY and Octavius entered, they saw Professor Glynda Goodwitch standing at the center, clipboard in hand, her sharp eyes scanning the room as students filed in. She noticed Octavius immediately and gave him a brief, acknowledging nod.

"Good morning, class," Professor Goodwitch began, her voice clear and authoritative. "Today, we'll be focusing on sparring drills. You'll be paired up and expected to demonstrate both offensive and defensive techniques. Remember, this is about refining your skills, not just brute force."

Her eyes fell on Octavius. "I understand we have a new participant today. Octavius von Steelheart, correct?"

Octavius stepped forward and nodded. "Yes, Professor."

"Given your... unique background, I'd like to see what you can do firsthand," she said, her tone leaving no room for argument. "You'll be sparring with one of our more experienced students."

There was a murmur of interest from the other students as they looked around, curious to see who would be matched against the newcomer. Professor Goodwitch scanned the room, then pointed to a tall, red-haired young woman standing among the students . "Pyrrha Nikos, you'll be sparring with Octavius."

The room buzzed with excitement as Pyrrha, known as the Invincible Girl, stepped forward with quiet confidence. She was a renowned fighter at Beacon, undefeated in combat tournaments and highly respected by her peers.

Pyrrha offered Octavius a polite nod, her green eyes steady. "It's an honor to spar with you, Octavius."

Octavius returned the nod, his expression calm and serious. "The honor is mine, Pyrrha."

The two warriors squared off in the center of the arena, the tension in the room palpable as students gathered around to watch. The contrast between them was striking: Pyrrha in her gleaming armor, armed with her versatile weapon, Milo and Akouo, and Octavius, standing firm and imposing despite wearing the Beacon uniform, with a posture that spoke of countless battles fought.

Professor Goodwitch raised her hand to signal the start of the match. "Remember, this is a sparring session. Show us your skills. Begin when ready."

Pyrrha was the first to move, her stance fluid and graceful as she closed the distance between them. She attacked with a series of precise strikes, her spear Milo shifting seamlessly between forms. Her speed and agility were impressive, and it was clear why she was regarded so highly.

Octavius, however, was not easily overwhelmed. He moved with calculated precision with his chainsword, blocking and deflecting her strikes with an almost preternatural ease. Every movement was efficient, every counter perfectly timed. It was a dance of skill and strategy, with neither combatant giving an inch.

Pyrrha, recognizing his prowess, adjusted her approach. She switched to a more aggressive stance, pressing the attack with increased intensity. Her spear lashed out in a blur of motion, each strike aimed to exploit any potential weakness.

But Octavius responded with a masterful display of defense. He parried her blows with expert precision, reading her movements as if they were an open book. When he saw an opening, he struck with lightning speed, forcing Pyrrha to retreat and regroup.

The room was silent, all eyes glued to the two warriors. Even Professor Goodwitch watched with an uncharacteristic intensity, impressed by the level of skill on display.

Pyrrha, undeterred by the challenge, launched into a new offensive, this time utilizing her semblance, Polarity. She subtly manipulated the metal components of Octavius's equipment, trying to throw him off balance.

Octavius felt the pull on his uniform's metallic clasps, but he remained unshaken. His years of fighting in the brutal crucible of the Imperium had honed his instincts beyond what any semblance could disrupt. With a burst of speed, he closed the gap between them, forcing Pyrrha onto the defensive.

The two exchanged blows in rapid succession, each strike and counterstrike a testament to their skill and experience. Octavius's movements were deliberate, powerful, and unyielding, while Pyrrha's were agile, precise, and adaptive. The match was a perfect clash of styles, with neither gaining a definitive advantage.

Finally, in a move that surprised the watching crowd, Octavius anticipated Pyrrha's next attack. As she lunged forward, he sidestepped and executed a swift, controlled disarm, catching her spear with one hand and using the momentum to gently but firmly push her back.

Pyrrha stumbled, her weapon now in Octavius's grip. Before she could react, he tossed it back to her, showing both respect and an understanding of the rules of engagement.

Breathing slightly heavier than when they started, Pyrrha caught her weapon and offered Octavius a sincere smile. "You're an incredible fighter. I haven't been challenged like that in a long time."

Octavius inclined his head, his expression still calm but with a hint of respect. "You are a formidable opponent,"

Professor Goodwitch stepped forward, her tone clearly impressed. "That was an exemplary display of combat, both of you. Octavius, your control and precision are remarkable, especially against someone as skilled as Pyrrha. And Pyrrha, as always, your adaptability and technique are beyond reproach."

The other students began to murmur in amazement, clearly impressed by what they had just witnessed. For many, it was the first time they had seen someone go toe-to-toe with Pyrrha and hold their own so effectively.

Team RWBY, watching from the sidelines, exchanged looks of awe. Ruby grinned widely. "Wow, that was amazing! Octavius is seriously strong."

Yang nodded, a spark of excitement in her eyes. "He's definitely someone to watch out for. I wouldn't mind sparring with him myself."

Weiss looked thoughtful, impressed by Octavius's technique. "He's clearly had extensive training. He's not just strong—he's disciplined."

Blake, always observant, simply smiled. "He'll fit in here just fine."

After the intense sparring session, the bell rang, signaling the end of class. The students began to file out of the combat arena, their conversations buzzing with excitement about the matches they had just witnessed. Octavius, still adjusting to the slower pace of life at Beacon compared to the battlefields he was used to, gathered his things and followed Team RWBY out of the arena.

Ruby, bounced up beside him as they walked. "That was awesome, Octavius! You and Pyrrha were amazing! I've never seen anyone fight like that."

Octavius offered a small, appreciative nod. "Thank you, Ruby. Pyrrha is a skilled warrior. It was an honor to spar with her."

Yang, walking on his other side, grinned and nudged him playfully. "I'm starving after all that excitement. What do you say we grab some food? You're gonna love the cafeteria here."

Blake, always composed, added, "It'll give you a chance to relax. You've had a busy day."

Weiss, who was leading the group, glanced back and nodded. "Plus, we can answer any questions you might have about Beacon or Remnant. You're still new to all of this."

Octavius followed them to the cafeteria, still taking in the sights and sounds of the academy. The atmosphere was so different from the grim and constant tension of Cadia or any other war-torn planet he had fought on. There was a sense of camaraderie and normalcy here, something that was almost foreign to him.

As they entered the cafeteria, the rich smell of food hit Octavius. The room was lively, filled with students from all different teams chatting and eating together. The sheer variety of food laid out before him was a stark contrast to the rations he was accustomed to during campaigns.

Ruby quickly led the way to the food counter, grabbing a tray and filling it with an assortment of dishes. "You can pick whatever you want here, Octavius. They've got a little bit of everything!"

Octavius, still somewhat overwhelmed by the choices, selected a simple meal. His tray carried a mix of meats, vegetables, and bread—nothing too extravagant, but enough to fuel him for whatever came next. He couldn't help but notice how carefree everyone seemed.

They found a table near the center of the cafeteria and sat down together. As they began eating, the conversation naturally shifted to their morning experiences.

Yang was the first to break the silence. "So, Octavius, what do you think of Beacon so far? It's a bit different from what you're used to, huh?"

Octavius took a moment to consider his response, the food in front of him largely untouched as he adjusted to this unfamiliar setting. "Beacon is... different from anything I've experienced. The atmosphere here is more relaxed, but I see the same determination in the students. They are focused, dedicated. It's just that the war here is fought differently."

Blake nodded in agreement. "We're all training to protect people from the Grimm."

Weiss, always precise in her speech, added, "Beacon is preparing us to lead and to fight, just like you've been trained to do. The techniques and the environment may differ, but the end goal is the same: to protect the innocent."

Octavius slowly began to eat, considering their words. "In the Imperium, we fight for survival, for the Emperor's will. The scale of the conflict is vast, but from what I see the principles of honor, duty, and sacrifice are part of the daily life of the Huntsman and Huntresses"

Ruby, who had been eating enthusiastically, paused to look at him. "I'm glad you're here, Octavius. I know it's different, but you're going to do great. We're all in this together, and if you need anything, we're here to help."

Octavius looked around the table at his new companions—Ruby, Weiss, Blake, and Yang. Though they were all so different from the soldiers he had known, there was a sense of camaraderie that was unmistakable. It wasn't the same as being on the front lines, but it was something he could come to value in this strange new world.

As they continued to eat and chat, Octavius slowly began to relax, the tension from the morning's events easing slightly. The food, though unfamiliar, was good, and the company was even better. For the first time since his arrival, he allowed himself to take in the moment, appreciating the peace and camaraderie that Beacon offered, even as he remained ever vigilant, a soldier at heart.

As Team RWBY and Octavius continued their meal, a new group approached their table. It was Team JNPR, led by the ever-enthusiastic Jaune Arc, followed by Pyrrha Nikos, Nora Valkyrie, and Lie Ren. They carried their trays and took seats around the table, filling the space with even more energy.

Jaune was the first to speak, offering a broad smile. "Hey, guys! Mind if we join you?"

Ruby waved them over excitedly. "Of course! Pull up a seat!"

As they settled in, Pyrrha nodded politely to Octavius. "That was an excellent sparring match earlier. It's an honor to share a table with you,may I present you my team here is our leader Jaune Arc, Nora Valkyrie and Lie Ren."

Octavius nodded in return, his expression respectful but still reserved. "The honor is mine, Pyrrha. Your skill is formidable and it's nice to meet you all."

Nora, leaned over the table with a grin. "So, Octavius! What's your story? We've heard you're from another planet, and you're like this super soldier or something. Is that true?"

Before Octavius could answer, Ren gently nudged Nora, a soft reminder to give him some space. "Nora, let's not overwhelm him."

Octavius managed a small smile at their dynamic, appreciating the camaraderie among the team. He was about to respond when he noticed a commotion across the cafeteria. His gaze shifted, and his eyes narrowed as he observed a group of students—led by a tall, broad-shouldered boy with a smug expression—surrounding a girl with long, brown hair and a pair of rabbit ears.

The boy, Cardin Winchester, and his friends were clearly harassing the girl, who looked distressed and was trying to shrink away from them. Octavius's expression hardened, his instincts honed from years of battle immediately flaring up.

"Is that an abhuman?" he asked, his voice low and tinged with surprise.

Blake, sitting beside him, followed his gaze and immediately tensed. She knew all too well what was happening. "Her name is Velvet Scarlatina. She's a Faunus, not an abhuman."

Octavius frowned, processing the term "Faunus" and the situation before him. In the Imperium, abhumans were a controversial topic, often mistrusted and treated with suspicion, if not outright hostility. But here, seeing the clear bullying in inside the schola where order should reign supreme was inaceptable, he felt a surge of anger.

"Does this comportement normal to this schola, or it is forbiden to this kind of things?" Octavius ask

"I mean it's kinda normal, their some people like Cardin that treat Faunus like that, but everyone in Beacon in the rules at least is treated equally" Blake said while looking at Velvet and Cardin

"That is unacceptable," he muttered, his voice cold as steel. Without waiting for a response from the others, he stood up, his towering presence immediately drawing attention.

Team RWBY and JNPR exchanged concerned looks but didn't try to stop him. They understood that the situation was wrong, and if anyone could handle it, it was Octavius.

Octavius marched across the cafeteria with purpose, his every step filled with the authority of a Lord Commissar. The noise of the cafeteria seemed to dim as he approached the group of bullies, his eyes locked on Cardin and his friends.

Cardin noticed Octavius's approach and turned to face him with a sneer. "What do you want, new guy? This doesn't concern you."

Octavius stopped just short of the group, his gaze cold and unwavering. "It concerns me when the order of this schola is not respected. Stand down, now."

Cardin's sneer deepened, and his friends chuckled, clearly not taking Octavius seriously. "Or what? You think you're going to scare us off?"

Octavius took a step closer, his presence almost suffocating. "In the Emperor's name, I will not allow this injustice to continue. Leave her alone."

The sheer authority in Octavius's voice caused the group to falter. Cardin, however, was too arrogant to back down. "The Emperor? What kind of nonsense are you talking about?"

Octavius didn't flinch. His hand moved to his side, where his bolter would usually be, but he remembered that he was unarmed. Still, his body language radiated danger. "This is your last warning."

The tension in the air was thick, and for a moment, it seemed as though Cardin might push his luck. But something in Octavius's eyes—a lifetime of battle, of witnessing horrors beyond imagination—made even Cardin hesitate. There was a seriousness in the way Octavius carried himself that was unlike anything the bully had ever encountered.

Finally, Cardin sneered one last time and backed off, gesturing for his friends to do the same. "Whatever, man. Let's go."

As they slunk away, Velvet looked up at Octavius, her expression a mixture of relief and gratitude. "Thank you… I didn't know what to do."

Octavius offered her a nod, his voice softer now. "No one should have to endure that. Are you alright?"

She nodded, her ears twitching slightly as she tried to regain her composure. "I'm okay, thanks to you."

Octavius returned to the table with Velvet, and the rest of Team RWBY and JNPR gave him approving looks. Ruby smiled warmly at Velvet, offering her a seat with them. "You're always welcome to sit with us, Velvet."

As they all settled back down, the mood around the table shifted back to something more lighthearted, though there was an underlying respect for Octavius's actions. He had shown them a side of himself that was as compassionate as it was commanding.

The cafeteria meal concluded, and after some light conversation, the group headed off to their next class. Octavius, still adjusting to the academic environment, walked alongside Team RWBY and JNPR as they made their way to the lecture hall. The halls of Beacon were busy, filled with students talking, laughing, and hurrying to their classes.

For Octavius, it was a stark contrast to the war-torn worlds he was used to, but he found a certain peace in the mundane rhythms of student life.

As they entered the lecture hall, they found their seats, with Octavius settling near the back, his imposing figure making him stand out among the other students. Professor Bartholomew Oobleck, the eccentric and fast-talking history teacher, was already pacing at the front of the room, holding a mug of coffee as he prepared to dive into his lesson.

"Good morning, class!" Oobleck's voice was sharp and filled with energy, immediately capturing everyone's attention. "Today, we'll be discussing a crucial part of Remnant's history: the Faunus Rights Revolution, more commonly known as the 'Faunus War.' Now, can anyone tell me what they know about this conflict?"

Oobleck's eyes darted around the room, but most students remained silent, either uncertain or uninterested in volunteering.

Undeterred, he continued his lecture with fervor.

"The Faunus War began when the human governments of the world attempted to relocate the Faunus population to the small continent of Menagerie, a decision that was met with fierce resistance. The Faunus, rightly feeling oppressed and marginalized, fought back in what became a bloody and prolonged conflict."

As Oobleck spoke, Octavius listened intently, absorbing the details of this conflict in Remnant's history.

The concept of a war fought over racial discrimination was both familiar and alien to him. The Imperium was no stranger to conflict over perceived differences, but here, the Faunus seemed to be fighting for survival and equality rather than for power or territory.

The professor's pace quickened as he delved deeper into the subject. "This war was not just about territory or resources, but about rights, equality, and the fundamental question of who deserves to be treated as a person and who does not. The ignorance and prejudice that fueled this war still linger in our society today, as evidenced by groups like the White Fang, who seek to address these wrongs, though often through violent means."

Oobleck paused, his gaze sweeping the room. "Now, has anyone here ever experienced discrimination because they're a Faunus?"

There was a moment of hesitation in the room. Velvet Scarlatina, who had joined Octavius and Team RWBY at the cafeteria earlier, looked around nervously. Seeing another student—a boy with fox ears—tentatively raise his hand, Velvet finally raised hers as well, though reluctantly.

Oobleck nodded solemnly. "It is this kind of ignorance that breeds violence. Discrimination, unchecked, leads to hatred, and hatred leads to conflict. We must strive to understand and respect each other, lest we repeat the mistakes of the past."

As Oobleck spoke, Octavius reflected on the parallels between Remnant's struggles and those of the countless worlds within the Imperium. The conflicts might be different, but the underlying causes—fear, ignorance, and prejudice—were often the same.

Oobleck continued, shifting gears slightly. "Now, can anyone tell me what advantage the Faunus had during the war?"

At that moment, Cardin Winchester, sitting a few rows ahead, decided to amuse himself by flicking a folded paper at Jaune Arc, who had been dozing off. The paper struck Jaune, jolting him awake just as Oobleck's question hung in the air.

Jaune, confused and groggy, blurted out, "Hey!"

Oobleck, ever the optimist about student participation, assumed Jaune had the answer. "Ah, Mr. Arc! Enlighten us! What advantage did the Faunus have?"

Jaune, realizing he was on the spot, frantically looked around for help. Pyrrha, sitting beside him, tried to give him a clue by miming binoculars, but Jaune completely misinterpreted the gesture. "Uh… binoculars?"

The class erupted in laughter, with Cardin being the loudest. Oobleck sighed, clearly disappointed. "No, Mr. Arc, that is not correct."

Seizing the opportunity, Oobleck turned his attention to Cardin. "Mr. Winchester, since you seem so eager to contribute, perhaps you can provide the correct answer?"

Cardin, smug and overconfident, leaned back in his chair. "Well, animals are easier to train than soldiers, right?"

The room fell silent, the casual cruelty of Cardin's words hanging in the air. Pyrrha's eyes narrowed, her voice firm as she corrected him. "That's not true, and it's an intolerant assumption. The advantage the Faunus had was their night vision."

Blake, who had been quiet until now, felt compelled to add to Pyrrha's explanation. "General Lagune thought he could ambush the Faunus army in the middle of the night, but he underestimated their abilities. The Faunus turned the tables, capturing him and defeating his forces. It was a pivotal moment in the war."

Oobleck nodded, clearly pleased with the responses from Pyrrha and Blake. "Excellent points, Miss Nikos, Miss Belladonna. The Faunus' night vision was indeed a crucial factor in their survival and success during the war. And let this be a lesson, class: underestimating others based on ignorance or prejudice can lead to one's downfall."

He then looked pointedly at Cardin and Jaune. "Mr. Winchester, Mr. Arc, I expect to see both of you after class. You've been struggling since day one, and I'm not sure if it's due to stubbornness or a lack of interest, but I'd like to help you improve before it's too late. You both worked hard to get into Beacon, and I don't want to see that go to waste."

As the lecture concluded, students began packing up their things, the air still buzzing with the tension of the earlier exchanges. Cardin, clearly annoyed at being reprimanded, shoved past Jaune as they left the room, knocking him to the floor.

Octavius watched the scene unfold, his expression hardening. He had no tolerance for bullying or injustice, whether on the battlefield or in a classroom. Rising from his seat, he helped Jaune back to his feet.

"You should not let people like him walk over you," Octavius said, his voice calm but firm. "Stand your ground, and don't let his cruelty define you."

Jaune looked up at Octavius, a mixture of embarrassment and gratitude in his eyes. "Thanks, Octavius. I'm… I'm trying, but it's not easy."

Pyrrha approached, her expression softening as she looked at Jaune. "You don't have to do it alone, Jaune. Let's go to the rooftop. We can train together, and I can help you with your studies. You're stronger than you think."

Octavius nodded in agreement. "A soldier is only as strong as those who stand with him. Accept the help of your comrades, Jaune. It's not a sign of weakness, but of wisdom."

Jaune, encouraged by their words, nodded. "Alright. Let's go."

As they left the classroom, Octavius watched them go, feeling a sense of purpose. Though this world was different from the one he knew, the struggles and challenges faced by these students were not so foreign. In many ways, they were like the soldiers he had fought alongside—young, determined, and in need of guidance. And though he was far from the war-torn galaxies of the Imperium, Octavius knew that his mission remained the same: to protect, to lead, and to inspire those around him.

After Octavius departed, heading off to explore more of the Academy and perhaps seek out answers to the mysteries of this new world, Jaune and Pyrrha remained on the rooftop. The cool breeze of the morning swept across the open space, carrying with it the sounds of students below. Jaune seemed quieter than usual, his face clouded with worry and indecision.

Pyrrha, noticing his unease, placed a gentle hand on his shoulder. "Jaune, is everything alright? You know you can talk to me about anything."

Jaune hesitated, his heart pounding. The weight of his secret had been growing heavier by the day, and now, with Octavius's encouragement and Pyrrha's unwavering support, he felt it pressing down on him more than ever. Taking a deep breath, he decided to reveal the truth.

"Pyrrha… there's something I need to tell you," Jaune began, his voice trembling slightly. "I wasn't actually accepted into Beacon. I… I faked my transcripts to get in."

Pyrrha's eyes widened in shock. "You… what?"

Jaune looked away, unable to meet her gaze. "I wanted to be here so badly. My dad, my grandfather, my great-grandfather—they were all warriors, heroes even. I wanted to be like them, but I wasn't good enough. So, I lied to get in."

Pyrrha was silent for a moment, processing his confession. She could see the pain and guilt in his eyes, and her heart ached for him. "Jaune… I had no idea. But you don't have to do this alone. I can help you. We can train together, and I can tutor you. We'll make you the warrior you want to be."

But instead of feeling comforted, Jaune felt a surge of frustration and shame. He had always struggled with feeling inadequate, and now, even the thought of relying on Pyrrha—someone so strong and capable—only made him feel worse. He pulled away from her, his voice rising with emotion.

"No, Pyrrha! I can't let you do that!" he snapped, surprising even himself with the harshness of his tone. "I need to do this on my own. If I can't, then… then I don't deserve to be here. I don't deserve to call myself a warrior."

Pyrrha recoiled slightly, hurt flashing in her emerald eyes. "Jaune, that's not true. Asking for help doesn't make you weak. It means you're smart enough to know your limits and strong enough to push past them with others by your side."

But Jaune, consumed by his own self-doubt, shook his head. "I'm sorry, Pyrrha. I appreciate everything you've done for me, but I need to do this on my own. Please… just leave me be."

Pyrrha felt a deep sadness wash over her, but she respected Jaune's wishes. With a heavy heart, she turned and left the rooftop, leaving Jaune alone with his thoughts.

As Jaune stood there, staring out at the horizon, he tried to convince himself that he had made the right choice. But the pit in his stomach only grew deeper, and he couldn't shake the feeling that he had just pushed away one of the best friends he had ever had.

Suddenly, he heard footsteps behind him. Turning around, Jaune's heart sank as he saw Cardin Winchester emerging from the shadows, a smug grin on his face.

"Well, well, well," Cardin drawled, his voice dripping with condescension. "Looks like the great Jaune Arc isn't so great after all. Faked your way into Beacon, huh? That's pretty low, even for you."

Jaune's face paled. "Cardin… you heard that?"

Cardin chuckled darkly. "Oh, I heard everything. But don't worry, your secret's safe with me." He leaned in closer, his grin turning menacing. "As long as you do exactly what I say."

Jaune's heart raced. He knew Cardin wasn't making an idle threat. If word got out that he had lied to get into Beacon, his dreams of becoming a Huntsman would be over. He would be expelled, disgraced, and his family's legacy would be tarnished forever.

"What do you want?" Jaune asked, his voice barely more than a whisper.

Cardin's eyes glinted with malice. "Oh, nothing much. Just… a little obedience. You're going to do whatever I tell you, whenever I tell you. And if you don't… well, let's just say everyone at Beacon will know what a fraud you really are."

Jaune felt the walls closing in around him. He was trapped, and there was nothing he could do. With a heavy heart, he nodded, his voice hollow. "Fine. I'll do what you want."

Cardin clapped him on the back, the gesture mocking rather than friendly. "Good boy. Now, let's head back to the dorms. You've got some work to do."

As Jaune followed Cardin down the stairs, he couldn't help but feel a deep sense of dread. He had pushed away the people who genuinely cared about him, and now, he was at the mercy of someone who only wanted to see him suffer.

Alone on the rooftop once more, Jaune felt the crushing weight of his decisions. But he didn't know how to escape this nightmare.

I sucked at describing combat =) I hope you liked this chapter I go a lot of free time that I'm bored so... that good for you I guess it me make me write more