Beacon: Night…
With teams formed, the first years were sent to their new dorm rooms where teams could unpack and/or prepare for the first day of classes tomorrow. Link imagined a majority would be hitting the hay, but he had every intention of utilizing the time before he slept wisely. As he now stood before the door to his room, Link noticed RNBW entering their room down the hall.
"Hey, Link!" Ruby had noticed and walked up to him. "I didn't get to say it earlier, but congratulations on your role."
"Same to you." Link returned with a nod. "On that note, you shouldn't squander your first night as a leader talking with me. I also do have something which requires my attention. Goodnight Ruby."
"Goodnight Link." Ruby returned before heading back to her dorm room. "See you tomorrow."
Link's Room
It appeared Ozpin knew Link would accept his given role or his people worked fast because this room was arranged just for him alone. The flooring was red carpeting with drapes of a similar color over the one window in the room and there were white walls.
There was also another door which led into a personal bathroom. Within the room itself, there were three rows of shelving along each side of the door out. There was a desk to the right of the door, a bookshelf just under the window, a bed, and a black couch against the left-hand wall.
Even with these things in here, it was still one big room. That made sense since four people were usually supposed to be housed in these rooms. Link now set out to unpack and get a shower in, utilizing this time to compose his thoughts before sitting down to compile his goals.
Some Time Later…
Link had situated his room, showered, and dressed in his night ware before plopping down at his desk. He then grabbed a notebook and began writing out his thoughts.
"Leader of my own team and second in command to two others. Someone is only as good as their word. By agreeing to this, I must uphold this position. While this seems counterproductive to the pursuit of strength, the inverse is true.
With the position I have, I must set an example. That goes beyond representing the academy properly. It means working to build genuine bonds. It means ensuring my grades, which will see to the acquisition of knowledge. It means working on my body and skills."
Link had been uncertain where he'd have gone after acquiring Wild's paraglider. Sure, he had concluded, prior to finding out he passed initiation, he'd find the best Hunters and attempt to get an apprenticeship with one of them back on that evac airship.
Perhaps that's what he'd have done if not for his meeting with Ozpin. Now, he was in Beacon which wasn't far from Vale. These places had to have quite a few avenues he could explore to grow, and he was determined to utilize it all.
"Beyond the training I can do alone or with Wild, I need to step up for opportunities, but I must also keep those around me in mind. While getting good grades will be important to my position, it can't stop there. I need to genuinely take in the information, learn.
I should also look into what resources are available to me as a student of Beacon. Perhaps I will see what more Ozpin can do for me; however, it's only been roughly a week since we made our deal. Even in this short time, I'd like to think we've developed a little trust."
Regardless of that, Link knew for a fact he couldn't overlook any potential resource. He still had no idea where the Dark One was or when they'd move. Perhaps he'd get a full four years at Beacon, or it might not even last until the end of the year.
"Just because something might seem like an uncomfortable prospect, it doesn't mean I can disregard it. Further training could also be done with the eight other students I'll be around on a more constant basis, though I can't go ordering it. Even then, I'm sure someone will be willing.
All that handles the mental and physical aspects, but I am also afforded opportunities for better gear. I may have just gotten a new sword, gun, and shield; however, I imagine there are materials the kingdoms have that can't be found out there.
Not to mention acquiring some form of mechashift weapon would be good, though it will have to be a separate weapon. Given the Master Sword is no mechashift, I refuse to see my main weapons taking on those attributes now."
Link figured Ruby would be the best person he could bring up weapons related stuff with. Not only has she visited Vale plenty to know it better than him, but she was also a lover of anything weapon to the point he felt a level of trust in her advice.
There was also Weiss, who would naturally have a vast understanding of all things Dust. Given how their interactions have gone, it was unlikely she'd be willing to help him. If things just didn't improve, he'd have to look elsewhere.
"I wouldn't say I lack in knowledge of Dust, plenty of people I've met have used it. Still, having Weiss' expertise would be helpful if I can swing it. Though, I should give it week or two before asking as we all need to adjust to this new normal."
Link also figured at least this coming week would be best spent seeing just what he could do and utilize as a student of Beacon. Not to mention at least getting the ball rolling by researching what kind of mechashift weapon he'd want.
He was done writing for tonight. "This is really all I can do since I should be getting to bed."
Despite the unknown variable of time, weather it was on his side or not, Link was aware freaking out about things outside his control would not do him any good. In fact, it would be detrimental to any objectives he had.
Morning…
With the early morning, the sun barely rising above the horizon, Link was awoken by the alarm he'd set. He soon got up and went through his morning routine before ending up at his desk upon completion. There, Link looked over his schedule to determine which classes may trouble him.
By nature of being raised outside the kingdoms, he never went to any Combat Academy. While that didn't mean he wasn't taught, in fact he felt the various caravans were quite knowledgeable, it could mean his knowledge wasn't up to the standards expected of him.
"Grimm Studies, Hunter Regulations & Law, Survival & Botany, Lunch, Weapon Engineering & Upkeep, History, and Sparring & Team Building. Hm, Perhaps I'm not as out of my element with this as I thought."
Even though he had a good feel for these subjects, there were bound to be things he was unfamiliar with. Despite Ozpin's speech at the beginning the year, about knowledge not freeing them, Link would still take the necessary steps to acquire the knowledge he lacked.
"While there is certainly a lot more I could look into, class wise or from my notebook, it's about time for my morning jog."
Link was already dressed for it, so he stepped out into the hall. Apparently, he wasn't the only one who jogged in the morning since Pyrrha had stepped out RNBW's room. She wore a red tank top, gold-colored pants, and had her hair up in a pony tail. Both pulled their doors closed.
Link approached her. "Going for a jog?"
"I was, yes." Pyrrha nodded. "Same as you appear to be."
"Mind if I join you?" Link asked.
Pyrrha smiled back. "Not at all."
Beacon: Later…
As the two jogged laps around the school, Both noted the other seemed to pride themselves on their physical conditioning. Something which they could have guess by the other coming out here to jog this early at all, yet not able to confirm it until this time.
When both truly felt the workout had reached its conclusion, they mutually agreed to stop and ended up back at the entrance to the dorms. Pyrrha found herself pleased at the idea she might have company for her morning jogs in the future.
Link felt something similar, given there came a time when the people he usually traveled with just stopped keeping up with him. For a while, he'd even forgotten how someone jogging with you could see you going longer.
"That was a lovely warm-up for the day." Pyrrha noted.
"I think, provided you agree, we could squeeze two more laps in tomorrow." Link noted, a small smile gracing his face.
Pyrrha blinked before giving a professional smiling. "I certainly wouldn't be opposed."
"If you don't want to do this, you can say as much." Link noted.
"I didn't…" Pyrrha began.
"It's in your smile." Link stated.
"My…smile?" Pyrrha asked, astonished.
"You're a champion fighter, right?" Link asked, rhetorically. "Can't say I understand what that entails, but I can guess frowning wasn't really allowed. Seems it led to a smile you give fans, though I'm not one of them. If anything, I'd say we're friends."
Pyrrha tried not to let confusion cover her features, instead keeping her polite smile in place. "Are we friends?"
"I'd say it's the avenue I find preferable over how Weiss sees Ruby and I." Link shrugged. "Besides, you seem like the type of person I'd like to have as a friend."
Pyrrha smiled genuinely, in line with how her smile turned at the tail end of him departing to find Jaune yesterday. "Then, as your friend, I will endeavor to have your back."
"That is typically what friends do." Link agreed.
"With that settled, as well as the fact you should know I was being genuine in that we can jog together in the mornings, I would like to know how you knew my smile was not genuine?" Pyrrha inquired.
"I know someone who had the weight of the world thrust on his shoulders when he was just a kid, and it followed him for years." Link voiced, inferring Wild. "He found something important, which saw him staying strong and silently bearing every burden in silence.
While this didn't stop him from forging bonds with people, he never felt they were as strong as they could have been. Eventually, he would end up losing those closest to him and regret the things he never got to do with those he cherished in his heart."
"Is…is this person you?" Pyrrha asked, tentatively.
"Like a lot of people on Remnant, I've had my loses." Link shook his head. "No, the person I'm talking about lost more than that." He looked her way. "I suppose what I'm saying is you shouldn't let what you were stop you from making bonds and cherishing them."
Link wasn't sure he could even be saying all this and not because Wild had forbade him from sharing anything. He'd made it clear that whatever Link knew, he was free to share. What had him thinking he couldn't be saying this was the fact he hadn't made any close bonds himself.
That's not to say he wasn't friendly with anyone. It's more that there always seemed to be a disconnect. People were either too old, too young, or weren't a warrior like him. There was certainly company to be had, but no one he was too close to for a while now.
Here, he already began feeling closer to these guys. Sure, Weiss was an exception, but she was frosty to quite a few people it seemed. Not to mention Ren, Nora, and Blake were people he didn't really know, but he wouldn't mind getting to know them
"You certainly know how to use your words." Pyrrha smiled. "You are right. I shall endeavor to be just as good a friend to you, Ruby, Yang, and anyone else I happen to consider as such."
"I've had to use my words more than outside the kingdom, but I suppose that comes with the position." Link nodded. "Anyways, we should head inside."
Pyrrha nodded back, and they headed to their respective dorm rooms.
RNBW Room: Later…
Weiss was just now waking and rising to a sitting position, with a stretch as she yawned. Ruby, dressed in the female uniform, slowly approached from the side with a whistle. She blew it next to Weiss, startling the girl and seeing her crashing to the ground.
"GOOD MORNING TEAM RNBW!" Ruby announced happily.
"What in the world is wrong with you!?" Weiss asked angrily.
"Now that you're awake, we can officially begin our first order of business." Ruby stated, moving on from the question asked.
"Excuse me?" Weiss questioned, standing and dusting herself off.
"Last night, we agreed to unpack this morning." Pyrrha pointed out.
Blake held up her suitcase, which popped open to deposit her stuff all over the floor. "Also, clean."
Weiss looked incredulously at the two, only for Ruby to blow the whistle again and send her falling back down. "Alright! Pyrrha, Weiss, Blake, and their fearless leader Ruby have begun their first mission!"
The girls went about decorating the room with highlights being Weiss hanging a panting of Forever Falls, Pyrrha hanging up faux replicas of her weapons, Blake hiding a particular book, and Ruby hanging curtains. While that was successful, they had piled their beds.
"This isn't going to work." Weiss sighed.
"It is a bit cramped." Blake agreed.
"We may need to reconsider how we've unpacked." Pyrrha voiced.
"Rather, we should reconsider the beds and turn them into bunk beds!" Ruby exclaimed.
"It would be efficient." Blake stated.
Pyrrha looked to the heavy beds in concern. "I don't know if these beds are to be used as bunk beds."
"Not to mention it'd be dangerous." Weiss agreed.
"Come on, it'll be fine." Ruby urged. "I know what I'm doing, and even in the worst-case scenario, which won't happen, we all have Aura."
"We should put to a vote." Weiss raised her hand. "All those not in favor of bunk beds, raise your hand." She was expecting a tie, only for Pyrrha not to agree with her now. "Pyrrha!"
"Well, Ruby made a compelling point." Pyrrha returned with one of her polite smiles.
"Alright, that means bunk beds are happening!" Ruby declared happily.
Weiss was reluctant; however, she recognized it was her who put it a vote. She would uphold the decision, seeing all four girls getting to work.
Hallway
Link stepped out of his room, dressed in the male uniform, and began walking with the intention of hitting the cafeteria for breakfast.
He soon stopped and glanced at RNBW's room as construction sounds started up. "I don't know what they are doing, but those four are aware classes starts in thirty minutes, right?"
For a brief second, Link wandered if he should knock on RNBW and JLYN's doors. He opted against that and walked on since he figured you had to have a little faith in your comrades. If they failed to arrive, he'd correct this inaction in the future.
Grimm Studies: Later…
After breakfast, Link was among the first to reach class. The professor he found was a large man with a curvy gray mustache. His attire consisted of a red, buttoned-down shirt, black pants, and boots.
"Aw, you are the first to arrive." The progressor noted. "Welcome to Grimm Studies. I am Professor Port, and I would assume you to be Link Sherwood."
"I am." Link nodded. "I would assume you know my circumstances in terms of teams?"
"Don't you worry." Port smiled. "Ozpin has informed all the teachers about how you are to function as a student here. Please my boy, take a seat while we wait for the rest of the students to arrive."
Given the number of first year teams, it appeared, by the size of this room, it was fitted to accommodate more than that. Link had figured he'd be assigned a seat, so he wasn't about to complain. He sat in the center second row before pulling out his scroll.
"Might as well start putting together a list of additional material I should look into for each class." Link thought.
RNBW's Room
Ruby and Pyrrha suspended the former's bed above the latter with rope. Weiss and Blake suspended the former's bed above the latter with books.
"Objective complete." Ruby declared proudly before becoming dejected as she opened their schedules. "Now, our second order of business is classes. Our first would be at eight…"
"What!?" Weiss exclaimed. "Did you say eight o'clock!?"
"Uhm…" Ruby tried.
"It's seven fifty-five, you dunce!" Weiss shouted, rushing out the room.
RNB and Team JLYN peeked out from around their room's door frames after her.
"Uh, t-t-t-t-to class!" Ruby managed, taking off herself.
Pyrrha and Blake followed.
"Class!?" Jaune exclaimed, all of them falling out into the hall with him quicker to get back to his feet. "We're going to be late!"
He followed after RNBW, prompting his team to follow him in return.
Grimm Studies
As time went by, more students showed up and class would soon began. Link eventually put his scroll away and looked for any members from Teams RNBW or JLYN. They weren't already in class, so he looked to the door.
"Perhaps I should have knocked on their doors or sent a courtesy message letting them know they had thirty minutes." Link noted, thinking back to when he was right outside their rooms.
Fortunately, just as class was about to begin, both teams burst through the door panting. Clearly, they had sprinted from wherever they had been prior.
"Ah, with ten seconds to spare." Port gave a hearty chuckle. "A good huntsman must always know how to make it to the battlefield before the battle starts. Now, take your seats so we may begin."
RNBW sat in the row in front of Link while JLYN took the row behind him. Class then began.
"Well met, future Huntsmen and Huntresses." Port began. "My name is Peter Port, but you should refer to me as Professor Port. To start your first class with me, I would like all of you to take a hardy breath in."
Port took in a deep breath, motioning for the assembled students to follow suit. Some did while others were confused.
"Now out." Port voiced, exhaling audibly. "It is important for any Hunter to control their breathing, for it is in your breathing where emotions lie. Should your emotions spill forth, wild and unkempt, Grimm will surely follow."
Weiss, Pyrrha, and Link were taking notes, JLYN and Blake listened intently, and Ruby was dosing in and out. Port now pointed the class's attention to certain diagrams and sketches along the walls.
"By a Grimm's nature, they leave no remains upon being felled and captivity can only contain them for a couple of days at best before they will dissipate as though they were felled." Port informed. "This means there is much we still do not understand about out prey.
What we do know is they are undeniably attracted to negative emotions. Those of hate, anger, sadness, and fear draw them in. Though I do not say this to make you fret, for the distance a Grimm needs to find your emotions is the distance of your breath."
To keep herself awake, Ruby began mindlessly sketching. While at first Weiss though their leader was taking notes, she soon noticed what was really happening.
"That's bologna!" Cardin called from his seat at the back of the room, his team looked disinterested at his outburst. "Grimm group together and attack villages all the time. How's a 'breath' supposed to attract a hundred Beowolves?"
"It is the pooling of breaths, of emotions, that draw Grimm in such numbers." Port answered. "Oftentimes, they can evoke greater feelings of negativity which then draw in even more Grimm. In a sense, you can think of it as cyclical."
He pointed to an image which showcased a person getting upset, a Beowolf being alerted, several Grimm slashing down people, and back to the person getting upset. Ruby snickered, and Weiss had to wonder why she hadn't just sat next to her own partner or Pyrrha.
That feeling only grew as Ruby showed her sketch, which involved Grimm attacking stick figures in little houses. Port cleared his throat, looking pointedly their way. Pyrrha and Blake glanced at the pair quickly before all four looked back the teacher's way.
"As Hunters, it is our job to fight this attraction at its source." Port continued. "Before any Grimm show up, we must counter their terror with everything we have. In that vein, true Hunters must be honorable…"
Weiss looked angrily at Ruby. Her leader hadn't gotten the message as she now balanced a pencil, book, and an apple on one finger while having a funny look on her face.
"…True Hunters must be dependable…"
Weiss' anger only grew as Ruby was now dosing off again.
"…A true Hunter must be strategic, well-educated, and wise…"
Weiss was about to explode, shaking in anger as Ruby poked her nose.
"So, who among you believes themselves to be the embodiment of these traits?"
"I do, sir!" Weiss almost yelled, quickly raising her hand.
"Well then, let's find out." Port stepped over to a red curtain and pulled the rope near it. "Step forward and face your opponent."
He pulled the rope, seeing the curtain fall to reveal a shaking cage. All that was visible within were the glowing red eyes of a Grimm.
"Facing a Grimm with negative emotions isn't exactly wise, unless you can properly chancel them." Link noted. "I don't want to assume, but I do not think she can." He cast his gaze to the back of Ruby's head. "Though, Weiss' anger didn't come out of nowhere."
He'd observed how Ruby had conducted herself in class, and it seemed to contradict what he understood of the younger girl's reasons for being here. These teachers were working to impart the very knowledge they needed at Hunters. As it was his role, Link would speak with her.
"Can't exactly do that in the middle of class." Link noted.
Some Time Later…
Weiss had left to change into her normal attire and retrieve her sword before returning to the classroom. She now drew her blade and got into her combat stance in preparation to fight her opponent while everyone else watched in anticipation.
"Fight well." Blake voiced.
"You got this Weiss!" Pyrrha added.
"Yeah, represent Team RNBW!" Ruby cheered.
"Ruby, I'm trying to focus!" Weiss lashed out, obviously still angry at her.
"Oh, um, sorry." Ruby dejectedly replied.
"Alright, let the match begin." Port declared, slicing off the lock on the cage with his axe.
The creature within was a Boarbatusk, a boar like Grimm. It immediately charged Weiss, who countered by dealing a spinning slash at its right side before rolling out of the way. She stood back up as the Grimm turned to face her..
"Haha, wasn't expecting that, were you?" Port voiced from the sidelines.
"Hang in there Weiss!" Ruby cheered.
Weiss skated across the floor as the Grimm charged. At the last second, the Grimm turned its head which caused Weiss's sword to get stuck between its tusks as he shook her around. She tried to pull her sword free while holding her ground but was having trouble.
"Bold, new approach!" Port voiced as Weiss struggled. "I like it!"
"Come on Weiss, show it who's boss!" Ruby encouraged.
Weiss took a moment to look at her. With her distracted, the Boarbatusk suddenly pulled her sword out of her grasp and threw it behind him before knocking her back.
"Ho-ho, now what will you do without your weapon?" Port inquired.
Weiss saw the Grimm charging her again, and narrowly dodged the attack which saw the Grimm crashing into a nearby desk. Weiss now ran over to retrieve her weapon, sliding along the floor as she grabbed it.
"Weiss, go for its belly!" Rubby advised. "There's no armor underneath…"
"Stop telling me what to do!" Weiss yelled, causing Ruby to shrink back in sadness.
"Looks like I may also need to have words with Weiss, thought she won't be inclined to listen." Link sighed before noting Pyrrha looking troubled over the tension within her team. "She may not listen to me or Ruby, but there is someone who might be able to get through to her."
The Boarbatusk spun its body like a wheel before racing at Weiss, but she cast one of her glyphs to block the attack. This saw the Grimm fall onto its back and leaving its gut wide open. Weiss jumped onto another glyph before launching at the Grimm and thrusting at its belly to end it.
"Bravo! Bravo!" Port declared. "It appears we are indeed in the presence of a true huntress-in-training." Weiss was catching her breath. "I'm afraid that's all the time we have for today. Be sure to cover the assigned readings and stay vigilant. Class dismissed."
Weiss gave Ruby an angry look before walking out of the room with others leaving the class.
"Sheesh, what's with her?" Jaune asked no one in particular.
The rest of Team RNBW looked at one another before Ruby ran off to catch up with Weiss.
Link stood, giving the remaining members of RNBW a look. "You two, come with me."
He didn't wait even a second for either of them to respond, prompting to pair to follow.
Hallway
Weiss had been storming off in a huff before suddenly coming to a stop. Just down the hall was what appeared to be herself standing there, her face cloaked in shadows. Behind her stood what looked like a green silhouette of Link.
"Weiss!" Ruby called out.
Weiss looked back to see her team leader following, catching sight of Link, Pyrrha, and Blake well behind the younger girl. She then turned back down the hall, only to see neither herself nor that silhouette of Link.
Weiss!" Ruby exclaimed, having caught up with her.
Weiss decided to disregard this as her mind playing tricks on her, casting it away in favor of turning to Ruby with anger. "I don't understand you at all. You're so happy about being team leader yet did nothing to earn it."
"Can we please just try to work together as a team and maybe…?" Ruby tried.
"Not a team led by you." Weiss interrupted. "I've studied and trained. Quite frankly, I deserve better." She crossed her arms and turned away from Ruby. "Ozpin made a mistake."
Weiss then departed, leaving with her head down. Pyrrha was the first to try stepping forward, and Link could see the champion about to call her leader's name.
"I'll take care of Ruby while Blake stands back here to accompany her to our next class at the conclusion of our talk." Link held out an arm, stopping the champion. "You need to go speak with Weiss. She'll listen to you over any of her other peers."
Pyrrha had wanted to make sure her partner was okay; however, she did understand this being part of Link's role. Not to mention he had a fair point, given how Weiss has reacted to anyone else aside from her in their age range.
Blake didn't know what to make of any of this, but she was willing to listen. This saw Pyrrha taking off in the direction Weiss went while Link approached the younger girl. As he reached her, she turned around and another person stepped up.
"That didn't seem to go very well." Ozpin noted.
"What gave that away, professor?" Link sarcastically asked.
"Is she right?" Ruby asked sorrowfully. "Did you make a mistake?"
Ozpin smiled. "That remains to be seen."
"He's right Ruby." Link nodded. "You were just declared leader last night, and I don't think one morning is enough to determine anything."
Balcony
Weiss took an exit leading out to a balcony with benches where she also saw Professor Port standing at the edge to look out at the lower grounds
She walked up to him. "Professor Port."
"Ah, Miss Schnee." Port turned. "To what do I owe this fine pleasure?"
"I...I enjoyed your lecture." Weiss commented.
"Of course you did child." Port nodded. "You have the blood of a true Huntress."
"You really think so?" Weiss asked hopefully.
"Most surely." Port assured before Weiss cast her eyes downward. "Hm, something is troubling you?"
"Yes sir." Weiss reluctantly answered.
"Dear girl, confess to me your strife!" Port offered.
"Well…I-I think I should've been the leader of Team RNBW." Weiss declared.
There was a moment of silence.
…
"That's preposterous." Port replied.
Hallway
"What do you mean?" Ruby asked them.
"Link is right in that it's barely been a morning since you've really been a leader." Ozpin stated. "Even then, I've made more mistakes than any man, woman, and child on this planet, but at this moment, I would not consider your appointment to leader to be one of them. Do you?"
"I think the results of initiation speak for themselves." Link added. "Granted, we're in an academy to learn; however, you both got your chances to lead. Under you, the Nevermore fell while Weiss put Russel in a terrible position through her orders."
"That is certainly telling." Blake realized.
Balcony
"Excuse me?!" Weiss asked, stunned.
"I've believed in Professor Ozpin for many years, and the man has not once led me astray." Port replied.
"So, you would blindly accept his decision even after seeing how exceptional I am?" Weiss asked
"With all due respect, your exceptional skills on the battlefield are only matched by your poor attitude." Port replied.
"How dare you!?" Weiss angrily retorted.
"My point exactly." Port nodded. "You've probably spent your whole life getting everything you wanted."
"That's not even remotely true," Weiss countered, crossing her arms while Port just raises his left eyebrow, unconvinced. "Well, not entirely true."
"Maybe what the professor said just now isn't true, but he is right about your attitude." Pyrrha voiced, dropping all pretenses of politeness, seeing them turn to her as she arrived. "Given how you've been acting, I'd pick Ruby as my leader every time."
Hallway
"Being a team leader isn't just a title you carry into battle, but a badge you wear constantly. " Ozpin voiced. "If you are not always performing at your absolute best, what reason do you give others to follow you?"
"I certainly knew I needed to be my best to hold the position I accepted." Link stated.
Balcony
"Just as with Ms. Nikos, no one in power would reconsider their decision with how you are acting now." Port pointed out.
"I believe our headmaster chose Ruby as our leader over you because of how you act, and that she is best suited for it." Pyrrha stated. "She led us in taking down that Nevermore while your only order saw harm come to another student.
Ruby has shown care for us while you've looked down on everyone and only treated me with respect because of what I am. Can you honestly tell me people would follow you when you treat them this way? I can't speak for them, but I don't want to follow you.
Weiss was unable to answer them as she dropped her arms.
"Exactly." Port voiced. "Instead of fretting over what you don't have, savor what you do. Hone your skills and perfect every technique. Be not the best leader, but the best person you can be."
Weiss thought on things for a moment. "Perhaps you just get more credit by being a perfect teammate and supporting a poor team leader, rather than being a leader yourself."
"Professor Port, you are truly wise." Pyrrha voiced. "Given Weiss is a member of Team RNBW, I'd like to take it from here."
"Good day, Miss Schnee and Nikos." Port nodded before walking away. "Just do not linger too long as there are many classes yet to be had for you today."
"Listen Weiss, you are skilled." Pyrrha voiced. "That will mean nothing if you can't learn to work with others. More importantly, learn when to listen to someone who is your leader."
"I don't know how you can listen to her." Weiss shook her head. "Ruby was able to lead us against the Nevermore, but she hasn't acted like a leader beyond that."
"Ruby did plenty as a leader that day, but I will admit perhaps she hasn't done her best since." Pyrrha relented. "At the same time, this is only the day after all that. Just like how any of us have room to grow, so too does she.
I have full confidence Ruby can learn to be a proper leader, but she's never going to get there with someone challenging her at every instance. That's where we need to come in. Do you think perhaps, like Blake and I, you can try?"
"I…I can try." Weiss hesitantly stated.
"That's all I'm asking you to do, Weiss." Pyrrha walked around to stand beside Weiss, resting a hand on her teammate's shoulder and giving a sincere smile.
Hallway
"You have been burdened with a daunting responsibility Ruby." Ozpin turned from her and Link. "I advise you take some time to think about how you will uphold it."
He then took his leave.
"Do you see the importance of being a leader now?" Link asked.
"Yeah, I see it now." Ruby nodded, determination entering her words. "I need to be worthy of their trust as a leader, and I will prove myself."
"Good." Link smiled, starting to walk off.
"Link?" Ruby called out, causing him to turn around. "Ever since we first met, you've been helping me out." She nodded. "Thanks."
"Before or after this position…" Link walked off. "…all I ever try to do is my best."
"You know, I didn't expect the bubbly girl I met to ever feel the way I've seen you feel just this morning." Blake noted, having walked up to her leader's side.
"The stories…" Ruby managed a light chuckle. "I, uh, wasn't quite clear the night before initiation. I love old stories Blake, but when I'd go to look them up, I'd often find the original rather than the modern versions. Those stories opened my eyes to how scary the world can be.
It made me look at how each story was pacified for younger audiences. I saw that something fun and enjoyable can come from something dark and twisted. Our world is kind of like that. It's plagued by monsters, but Hunters can slowly change that reality into something better."
Upon hearing out the true meaning behind what Ruby had meant saw Blake finding she could respect the surprising amount of maturity her leader did have. "Does Weiss being hard to work with counter your musings?"
"It's only been a morning Blake." Ruby smiled genuinely. "I think there's plenty of time for things to get better." She shook her head before walking on. "Anyways, we still have classes to get through today."
Hunter Regulation & Law
"'While you may find differences depending on the kingdom, Hunters tend to legally operate between effective mercenaries and attached law enforcement.'" Ren read in a clear, crisp voice from the textbook before him.
While it had been close, Team RNBW arrived at their next class on time. Ruby and Weiss were far more subdued, with the former paying better attention. Despite this, Pyrrha and Blake did sit between them. In this class their teacher was a middle-aged man, with sharp pepper hair, who was now was having them take turns reading the introductory section.
"'Their primary job is to fight the Creatures of Grimm.'" Ren proceeded. "'Either by tracking the monsters down or as town/city guards in the case of a Grimm attack.'"
He then nudged Jaune, who continued. "'Oftentimes, Hunters are called upon as relief workers after Grimm attacks, especially in outlying villages. As a third party, Hunters that assist in any defense can expect proper compensation for their role.'"
He looked to Yang, who nodded and picked up where her leader left off. "'As you can see, the versatility in this career is considerably high. Hunters can often find work with governmental/military organizations or be hired out for mercenary needs.'"
The professor now turned away, instructing another team to continue.
Weapon Engineering & Upkeep: After Survival & Botany and Lunch…
"While this class will eventually cover weapons, the topic for the first semester will be Dust Application." A man with dark purple hair lectured. "Dust is used as an energy propellant which has enabled humanity to prosper across Remnant.
It is used to generate electricity, create scrolls and other technology, and power firearms more efficiently than gunpowder.'" He shut the book. "Before each of you is a tray containing samples of Dust. Go ahead and-"
"Professor Mulberry?" Weiss called; her hand raised. "I have some concerns about this classroom's lack of Dust Safety."
In front of each team was a tray containing two Air Dust Crystals and a jar of Fire Dust.
"Miss Schnee." Mulberry turned towards her. "You are all nearly adults. Surely, I don't need to explain the dangers of infusing Dust into the body."
"It would be best if you did." Weiss countered levelly.
"Very well." Mulberry relented, opening his text book. "'Rule one: Do not ingest dust or pierce the body with a Dust Crystal. Such activity is linked with great pain and psychotic breaks. Rule two: Do not manipulate Dust with your Aura without express permission from your instructor." He closed his book. "With those rules in mind, it's time for some hands-on experience."
Sparring & Team Building: After History…
This class was in a different tower, with a combat arena serving as their meeting place.
"Although you have been put into teams for your time here at Beacon, it is not uncommon for Hunters to operate solo in the field." Glynda lectured. "Depending on the task at hand, you may be forced to work alone or within a platoon, even with non-Hunter combatants.
Flexibility, versatility, and communication are all things you will need to strengthen before you're ready for such encounters. The focus of this class will be to teach you how to best use your attributes and abilities, solo or in tandem with others, to achieve victory.
For those of you who may not have them, we will work to find your Semblance. When a person unlocks their Aura, they also gain a Semblance. It is power typically unique to the individual, though cases do arise where someone may have your very Semblance as their own.
Some find it easily while others can takes years to learn it. In fact, a select few of you may never even know the full extent of your power in this lifetime." She caught Ren raising his hand. "You have a question, Mr. Ren?"
"Yes." Ren nodded. "This class is called Sparring & Teambuilding, right?" Glynda nodded. "Why would we need to spar if Hunters fight monsters?"
"An excellent question." Glynda smiled. "Though Hunter's primary fight Grimm, part of our duties involve mitigating social unrest. It is not uncommon to see them become celebrities, providing calming voices in times of strife. Additionally, there are those who others specialize in fighting criminals, which would in turn keep the peace within society."
"That's what I'm talking about!" Yang suddenly stood, seeing everyone looking her way, "What?"
"Young lady." Glynda fixed Yang with an icy glare, seeing the girl sitting back down. "Do not interrupt." She then proceeded. "To finish with Ren's question, you will be sparing with one another to prepare for the many dangers in the world, both within and outside of civilization."
Goodwitch proceeded to show them the functions of the arena. Such as how to log their scrolls into the screen allowing their Auras to be visible to the entire class and how there was a Hard-Light dust barrier which protected any observers from friendly fire going wild.
"Today, so to speak, there shall be no sparring." Glynda informed, though a slightly lighter tone was present now that wasn't there prior. "Starting tomorrow, I will have you fight one on one to evaluate and grade your performance.
We shall also figuring out who best to match you up against, so you learn the most." Her tone, as far as she would take it, took on a joking lean. "If anyone would like to challenge me to a duel today and win, you'd be out of this class for the rest of the year and given perfect marks."
This offer of hers, despite the tone with which she conveyed it, was a serious one. It was to let students know their teacher could do more than just teach. Not to mention it'd let anyone full of their own ego be knocked down a step or two.
There was a wave of nervous laughter, a sign that seemingly none of the first years were going to take up the offer. A few students looked to Pyrrha, obviously wondering if the champion would take up the challenge. Pyrrha pretended not to notice them.
"I'd like to have a go, provided that's alright." Link voiced, standing.
The room had gone deadly silent as everyone looked his way. In his time outside the walls, Link actually got plenty of chances to fight Hunters. It usually ranged from his win against those who slacked on their training and duties to losses against those truly worth their salt.
He had to imagine a Huntress combat instructor was in the latter category, meaning a spar like this would be invaluable to his goals. If for whatever reason she wasn't, at least he'd have this period free to train himself.
Professor Goodwitch's eyebrows rose nearly up into her hairline, but then the combat instructor simply nodded. "That would be fine, Mr. Sherwood. Please, set your scroll to monitor your Aura, and send that information up to the main monitor."
Link tapped a single key on his scroll. His face and name, complete with a green bar, appeared on the screen at the back of the room.
"Done." Link stated.
Glynda brought out her own scroll and tapped several keys. A few seconds later, her own image appeared on the screen as she stepped onto one end of the stage.
"Very well, Mr. Sherwood." Glynda stated. "If you will retrieve your weapon?"
Link nodded, heading to the locker rooms. Typically, they'd have had their weapons at the start of class, but Professor Goodwitch had told them not to grab them today. Link was quick to return, his sword and shield on his back while his hand rifle was at his side.
"It's been feeling odd not having my weapons on hand." Link noted, stepping onto the stage across from her.
He could have just stored them in his inventory, like his paraglider, but that would raise questions he didn't want to answer.
"Now, we shall observe traditional rules for such a match." Professor Goodwitch nodded. "If your Aura drops into the red, or you are forced from the ring, you are disqualified. Is that clear?"
"Understood." Link voiced, drawing his sword and shield.
"Very well." The Professor's eyes seemed to glint as she brought forth her riding crop. "We shall begin in three, two, one…"
Link vs Glynda
Link didn't know what this professor's Semblance was called, nor what she could do with it to the full extent of her power. What he did know was the little he got to see of it that night the two of them climbed that roof after Ruby. It seemed to indicate range was her bread and butter.
While Link could fight at range, all he really had for that was a gun at this time. With all that considered, he proceeded to work on closing the distance by rushing in. Glynda swiped her arm holding the riding crop, sending quite a few beams her student's way.
Link stopped, his eyes glancing over every beam to determined which would hit him first. He lept clear to the right just as that first beam impacted where he'd have been standing, activating his Semblance to slow everything on the immediate stage down.
For these mere seconds, everyone could see their teacher's movements had slowed while Link was sped up. Link attempted to put this instance his Semblance granted him to good use by closing the gap and swinging his sword for the neck, knowing that'd shave of a lot of Aura.
Time resumed earlier than he hoped, his blade a foot from the woman's throat. Glynda deftly rolled out of the way at the last second and swung her riding crop backwards as if swatting a fly. Swinging a weapon back behind you took even a few seconds longer than in front of you.
With that time, Link got his shield into position and managed to catch the riding crop on it. He then pushed forward with a great deal of strength, utilizing a shield bash to push her before swinging his sword powerfully downward.
Glynda almost immediately caught her footing and snapped her riding crop at her student. Link's sword stopped inches from his teacher as he was surrounded by a faint purple Aura. Glynda gazed at him with a slight smirk.
"In the future, Mr. Sherwood, you might want to…" Glynda began.
She broke off whatever she was saying as green Aura visibly fed into Link's sword, the transition at such concentration that he could continue his sword's downward momentum. Given it had been stopped before proceeding, the blade essentially tapped against the instructor's torso.
That was followed by a straight line of green Aura projecting from the blade and slamming into Glynda's torso, forcing her back a couple of inches. The purple Aura around Link vanished and, and he pushed forward while swinging his blade, no longer cloaked in his aura, at his instructor.
Glynda proceeded to dodge Link's blade, the close proximity he kept up seeing her just barely dodging the rapid strikes he produced. Eventually, Glynda was able to do a large roll back and swept her crop as Link swung his blade.
His sword was once again stopped, this time inches from the instructor, who had a fierce glare on her face, before he was flung backwards. Once again, Link had his Aura flow before this time utilizing the movement provided to fling his sword with all his might.
The blade managed to cut into the ground just below the wall he hit back first. Link could now move freely and positioned his feet to land on the hilt of his blade. With Glynda not declaring an end to the spar, he figured his idea had panned out.
By technicality, his feet had not touched outside the ring. With that in mind, Link managed to leap off his blade, withdrawing his hand rifle as he landed in the arena. As Glynda attempted to swish her riding crop, Link opened fire as rapidly as he could manage.
This saw the instructor swapping from an attempt to use her Semblance into deftly avoiding the gunfire, all while Link rapidly closed in. By now, the whole class was on their feet. Some students were murmuring in astonished tones while others stared in wonder.
Weiss had her mouth open in shock. Jaune looked impressed. Nora was bouncing up and down on her heels in excitement. Pyrrha…Pyrrha looked like it was her birthday, and she was getting the thing she'd wanted her entire life on a silver platter.
As Glynda attempted to dodge roll back, Link removed his shield from his arm and hurled it with all his might. The combat instructor saw it coming too late to stop it, the shield slamming into her stomach. With her precarious position, she was actually knocked back.
Link sheathed his gun as he rushed forward and scoped his shield up before leaping into the air. It was a perfect leap, seeing him above Glynda who was now on her back. He held that shield down as he fell, pushing it downward.
Goodwitch's hand, which emerged from a pouch on the inside of her belt, was now flung out. Suddenly, there was a glowing purple dome over her which took the shield, though noticeably cracked from the impact.
Link rose to his feet, hefting his shield above his head before bringing it down on the dome. As it shattered, Glynda was already rolling back which saw his shield impacting with the ground. Link, now in a one-kneed position, drew his gun and fired
Glynda, who was rising to her feet, actually took a round to the torso that knocked her back off her feet. She rolled into it and back to her feet, almost immediately waving her riding crop as the second bullet came.
A purple circle, looking a bit like one of Weiss's glyphs, appeared in front of Miss Goodwitch. It stopped the next few rounds from reaching her, so Link rose back to his feet before running in. Glynda reached into a pouch, and brought her crop above her head, gesturing at the ceiling.
A storm cloud started to form, growing and darkening. Link quickly moved around the barrier before hurling his shield once again. With a gesture, Professor Goodwitch caused the miniature storm to blow fierce winds that tossed Link's shield away.
Ruby risked a quick glance to the monitors. "Link's Aura is a fraction lower than Miss Goodwitch's, but they're both in the yellow!" She turned back to the battle, Link firing at their instructor. "He might actually pull this off!"
While the first shot hit Glynda in the torso, a second never came as she gestured sharply at the floor. Link slammed back first, full force, into the arena floor. There was a buzzer as his Aura hit the red.
Glynda waved her riding crop dismissively at the storm over her head, and it swiftly began to disperse. "Now then students, Mr. Sherwood's Aura has dropped into the red. In a tournament style duel, this would indicate he is no longer fit for battle.
Said student slowly began to rise to his feet. "This would mean an official may call the match." She then turned to the young man and smiled. "You were very impressive, Mr. Sherwood. I haven't had such a challenge in quite a few years."
"Guess this means I get to keep coming to class." Link responded, giving her his own smile.
"That would be correct. Nevertheless..." her smile turned warm. "…Good try."
The class let out soon after, the students talking excitedly about the match they'd just witnessed. Pyrrha, Jaune, and Weiss came down to get Link while Ruby waited back with Blake and the rest of JLYN at the exits.
"Link, you were amazing!" Pyrrha gushed. "I can't wait to get a chance to spar with you!"
"It'll have to be another day considering I did just finish a spar with our professor." Link voiced, noting just how excited the champion was to the point such a warning was probably necessary.
"It was quite the spar." Glynda Goodwitch said mildly. "I rarely feel the need to combine my Semblance with Dust, yet I was forced to resort to several kinds to win."
"You used Gravity Dust to defend from my shield in your downed state before using it to block my shots." Link noted. "Then, you created a storm with Wind Dust which blew my shield away. As I'd already disarmed of my blade prior, this further reduced my options."
"Full marks, Mr. Sherwood." Glynda smiled warmly. "I can see it shall be a pleasure having you in class this year. Though, I suspect today will not go unnoticed as your peers may very well attempt to imitate your attempt."
"While I cannot comment on anyone else's skills, I imagine you will maintain you win record." Link stated.
Glynda looked around at Ruby and Jaune's teams, who were all that was left in the arena. "It will be interested to see if anyone else in this year's class comes as close to victory as yourself."
Weiss looked shocked. "You'll allow other students to challenge you?"
"Normally, I'd have offered to accept any further challenges immediately after defeating the first student to try it." Glynda informed. "As my Aura was already in the yellow, I felt it wiser to wait until next class to make my offer again."
"Well, count me out." Jaune held up his hands nervously. "I don't have nearly any of the ways Link does of stopping you from tossing me around."
"While I cannot not say Link or I are stronger, I will admit he had quite a few counters to your Semblance I lack." Pyrrha admitted with a smile. "I will need to prepare, though perhaps Weiss might prove to be more of a challenge to you."
"My dustcasting is not quick enough to compete with the Professor." The heiress demurred. "Perhaps I will feel better about trying later in the year."
"I would be most interested to face you in the arena at any time, Ms. Schnee." Glynda voiced, pleased.
Weiss did her best not to shiver in fear but couldn't help doing as such upon noticing how her instructor's eyes seemed to shine from behind her glasses in a particular way.
Beacon
Link headed for the exit with Jaune, Pyrrha, and Weiss. RNBW, JLYN, and Link then proceeded out into Beacon.
"Link, that was amazing!" Ruby gushed. "I mean, you came so close!"
"I've had some good mentors." Link replied simply.
While it's true he learned a great deal from many different people, He'd say Wild had the biggest impact on his skills. In the last two years, he'd certainly learned and progressed more than at any point prior.
Weiss looked Link's way. "Well Link, I will say I have obviously misjudged you. I had my doubts about the validity of the role you now hold, but I'm impressed by what I've seen."
"That was actually something nice from her." Link noted. "Looks like the rest of you have no choice. Aside from Pyrrha, you all must get in that ring and lose to Goodwitch to impress Weiss."
"That aside, it's obvious you have the skills to be where you are." Weiss rolled her eyes. "I look forward to collaborating with you."
Link glanced Ruby's way, seeing how she took this since he'd say Weiss has been far more negative with her than anyone else here. Said younger girl actually looked rather hopeful at the exchange.
"Maybe her hope is well placed, and this coupled with whatever Pyrrha spoke with her about earlier today will mark a turning point." Link thought.
RNBW's Room: Night…
Pyrrha, Blake, and Ruby were all sleeping, the younger girl over her study materials from the various classes they had. Weiss entered the room, getting on a chair and rousing the younger girl from her slumber.
"Weiss?" She got up on her elbows, realizing what happened. "Oh, I fell asleep."
Weiss shushed her before noting the empty coffee mug. "How do you take your coffee?"
"Cream and five sugars?" Ruby replied, uncertain.
Weiss nodded before departing and quickly returning with a fresh cup. "I think you'll be a good leader Ruby. While you do that, I've decided to be the best possible teammate I can be. Good luck studying."
"Oh, thank you." Ruby stated, surprised.
Weiss began to leave, only to stop and say one last thing. "You know, it's funny. I always wanted bunk beds."
The heiress then left her leader there, the younger girl smiling.
Weiss then sat on her bed and looked at the ceiling. "This is more exhausting than I thought."
What went unnoticed were vine like marking spreading along her back before fading from sight for the moment.
I could not find a good place to divide this chapter properly for a two parter, so here's the entire first day. I think the only contentious aspect might be that this Link lost to Glynda, but if he couldn't ever loose, there'd be little point, at this time in the story, for Link remaining at Beacon. One of his main motivations is garnering strength to defeat the Dark One of his era. Additionally, it should go without noting that this Link is nowhere near the apex of his strength.
Wicker3(Ch. 1): There is something there to your idea. Perhaps when/if dungeons connected to a certain Link are showcased, they'll appear in th story.
Wicker3(Ch.3): There are aplenty when it comes to character who could have survived through history.
Wicker3(Ch.6): Except for Ren and Nora, I just couldn't see separating them as partners. As for the Weiss reincarnation, I am seeing that more now; however prior to writing that I'd only ever really see it being Ruby.
Wicker3(Ch.7): RWBY is a series not afraid to take words from other languages. Jazlyn fits the color theming of RWBY by being derived from the word jasmine. As for if a Nightmare has infected Link, it's not impossible given what exactly this Grimm does. I will say there is a certain appeal to it, with what you've had to say on the topic coupled with the potential for character work.
Maybe I'll do something with it, but I might just stick to Jaune and Weiss. As for everything concerning Weiss' whole nightmare schtick, there is certainly merit to all of that. Unlike with the prior point, I certainly will be utilizing those thoughts as they actually go beyond what I had initially intended for it and are better than my initial plan for that arc.
Monster King: Thank you.
the mysterious Mr-E: Not necessarily descendent. In this story's continuity, the brothers wiped out everything in their initial conflict before then wiping out what they made and following it up with that meteor storm. What you see now is the third time life has restarted on this planet, so there's no descendants of anyone. That's not to say certain beings haven't survived that, for example that has been see the purple robbed figure Link came across chapters ago. It is to that overall races from the first cycle aren't here. Now a reincarnation, that is certainly on the table. Unlike Link and eventually Weiss, I don't think any other reincarnated people would recognize it as such.
hdzalex084: Oh, Weiss will behave okay; however, it's not exactly based with genuine feelings on her part.