May lay unconscious on the rooftop floor, blood trickling from her nose, her defeat clear and decisive. A bored expression etched on Yang's face, as though the outcome had been inevitable.

Joanna's voice cut through the tense silence, sharp and filled with concern. "May!" She darted forward, only to instinctively leap back as a sudden kick from Coco sliced through the air toward her.

"Shit!" Joanna cursed, her balance just barely recovered, glaring at Coco with a mix of frustration and wariness.

Coco smirked, lowering her sunglasses just enough to reveal a gleam of amusement in her sharp eyes. "Keep your eyes on me, tough girl. You wouldn't want to end up like your friend now, would you?"

Joanna gritted her teeth, but before she could respond, Henry Marigold's boisterous laughter filled the rooftop. His amusement unrestrained as he gestured toward May's limp form.

"She deserved it!" He declared, his tone dripping with mockery. "Honestly, I'd say she got off easy. When Yang took me down, I was in the hospital for weeks."

Fiona's worried gaze remained fixed on May. She shifted uneasily, gripping the hilt of her fencing saber. "Wow... that girl Yang is terrifyingly strong. She sent May flying with one punch."

Henry turned his attention to Fiona, his grin widening as he pointed his stun rod in her direction. "So, what about you, little sheep? Feel like being next?"

Fiona raised her fencing saber, her movements precise but calm, her lips curling into a sly smile. "How adorable. You're trying so hard to be intimidating, but it doesn't really suit you. A handsome guy like you shouldn't act so brutish."

Henry blinked, momentarily caught off guard, before clearing his throat and regaining his composure. "Well, even if you're friends with May, I've gotta admit you've got good taste, little sheep."

From the doorway, Jaune and Oscar watched the unfolding chaos, their expressions a mix of awe and concern.

Jaune's thoughts raced as he glanced at the rooftop's protective barrier. "That was close. If it weren't for the barrier, May could've been sent flying to her death. When Yang gets angry, she doesn't hold back."

Oscar spoke aloud, his tone tinged with disbelief. "Whoa. She defeated the formidable May with a single punch. Those stories about Yang weren't exaggerated at all."

Jaune hesitated to call May "formidable," but to be fair, Yang's strength was nothing short of ridiculous. Many of the people Yang had effortlessly defeated could probably beat him without breaking a sweat, and May was likely among them.

Emerald, observing the scene with her characteristic cold smile, stepped toward the center of the rooftop. Yang and Blake moved, their gazes locked on their opponent.

Emerald's voice was smooth and condescending. "You took down May with one punch. I expected nothing less from you, Yang."

Yang smirked, turning to Blake. "Hey, kitty-cat, I assume you're not going to bother trying to stop me now, right? Because I fully intend to fight this bitch."

Blake sighed softly, a faint hint of exasperation in her tone. "I won't stop you. At this point, I doubt we'll avoid trouble with Cordovin. Just be careful, okay? This girl is strong. Besides Muay Thai, it's clear she's mastered another martial art. You'd better watch yourself."

Yang chuckled lightly. "Aww, are you worried about me? I thought you only had eyes for Jaune. Don't tell me you've got a crush on me too?"

Blake flushed slightly, retorting, "Idiot. You're my classmate. I care about everyone equally. My preferences aren't relevant here. Besides, if I try girls, I'd probably give Ilia a chance first. Did you know she confessed to me about two years ago? I turned her down, though."

Yang blinked in surprise. "Wait, sexy legs likes girls?"

Blake shrugged. "Eh, I'm pretty sure Ilia's attracted to guys too. She's probably into both."

Emerald, meanwhile, was growing visibly irritated. "Hey… are we going to fight, or are you going to keep babbling nonsense?"

Yang stepped forward, cracking her knuckles with a confident smile. Emerald's expression remained cold and composed.

"You sure you want to do this alone?" Emerald taunted. "If the kitty helps you, I think I'd lose for sure."

Yang's smile faded, her demeanor hardening. "As always, you love unnecessary and roundabout shit. That's why I've never been able to stand you. What you did to Mercury, provoking my classmates, and I'm pretty damn sure you're the one who started this whole witch hunt against Beacon. From the moment we arrived, we've been under threat, and it's all because of you. Jaune might be too soft to see through you—he probably still remembers you as a good friend. But I know exactly what you are. If you wanted revenge on me for the beating I gave you last time, you should've come straight at me, you fucking bitch. I'll never turn down a fight."

Yang's expression radiated pure fury.

Emerald's smile turned sharper, more sinister."You knew I liked Jaune, and yet you always got in my way. I couldn't stand you even back then, but I respected your strength. I might've even admired you. But now..."

Emerald assumed a martial stance unfamiliar to Blake, its movements precise and fluid—a technique Blake couldn't immediately recognize. "I'll prove to you that you're no longer the strongest, Yang Xiao Long. You'll understand how far you've been surpassed."

Yang spat on the ground, rolling her neck to loosen up. "You always did love running your mouth, stupid bitch."

(…)

The arena of Belphegor's castle emanated an ominous yet regal aura. The dark, polished stone reflected the faint, ethereal glow of the enchanted torches lining the walls, their flames flickering in hues of silver and violet. The air was thick with tension as Ruby Rose stood in the center of the vast arena, her crimson cloak swaying slightly with the subtle breeze that seemed to circulate within the chamber. Across from her, the figure of Crayiel Vasilias loomed, her ethereal presence both mesmerizing and foreboding. In the elevated seats surrounding the arena, Neptune, Neo, and Junior watched with expressions etched with worry. The weight of the impending battle pressed heavily upon them, their concern for Ruby evident in their tense postures.

But how had it come to this?

A few hours earlier, Ruby had arrived at the gates of Belphegor's castle, accompanied by Neo and Junior. The castle's towering spires pierced the blood-red skies of the demonic realm, its grandeur both majestic and oppressive. The heavy iron gates creaked open, revealing Neptune standing just beyond, his striking blue eyes lighting up as he saw Ruby. Without hesitation, he closed the distance and wrapped her in a warm embrace.

"Ruby," he said, his voice filled with relief. "I'm glad you made it."

Ruby smiled, her silver eyes shimmering. "It's good to see you, Neptune." She pulled back slightly, her gaze falling to the faint bruises on his neck and the way he held himself, favoring his left side. Concern flickered across her face. "You're hurt. Are you okay?"

Neptune waved a hand dismissively, though the wince that followed betrayed him. "The fight with my sister left me a bit worse for wear, but I'll recover."

Ruby gently took his hand, her expression softening. "Thank you for protecting my friends. If it weren't for you, they might not have made it out of Leviathan's castle."

Neptune's lips curved into a lopsided smile. "I couldn't just stand by and do nothing. Besides, I couldn't let my sisters's madness hurt anyone."

Ruby nodded, her gratitude evident. "According to the message I received, Leviathan came here to visit my mother, and you came with him. But you didn't come alone, did you?"

At this, Neptune's expression grew complicated. He scratched the back of his head with his free hand, a sheepish grin playing at his lips. "Yeah, uh, Crayiel's here too. I've been trying to keep her calm, but she's… well, she's Crayiel. And she still wants that friend of yours—Jaune."

Ruby let out a tired sigh, pinching the bridge of her nose. "So she hasn't let it go."

Junior chuckled, his deep voice rumbling with amusement. "I've noticed that Jaune has a knack for attracting dangerous women. Some might call that a blessing, but for someone as weak as he is? Definitely not a good thing." His laughter echoed through the corridor, earning a faint smirk from Neo.

Neo's voice echoed telepathically in Neptune's mind. "Isn't it possible that your sister will lose interest in Jaune eventually?"

Neptune shook his head, his tone resolute. "Nope. Crayiel's too stubborn. When she wants something, she'll do whatever it takes to get it. Honestly, it might've been better for Jaune if he'd just died rather than catching her eye. She's not going to change her mind."

Ruby crossed her arms, her expression thoughtful. After a moment, she asked, "Where is she now?"

"I had some of your servants prepare her favorite dishes," Neptune replied. "She's distracted in the grand dining hall."

Ruby gave a decisive nod. "You've done enough, Neptune. I'll deal with your sister. Jaune's my friend, and I won't let him get hurt."

Together, the four of them entered the castle, its grand halls echoing with the sound of their footsteps. The interior was the epitome of gothic elegance. Stained glass windows depicted scenes of ancient battles, their colors casting eerie patterns on the polished black marble floors. Chandeliers made of twisted silver and glowing crystals hung from the vaulted ceilings, their light illuminating the intricate carvings that adorned every surface. Ruby was greeted with respectful bows and murmured acknowledgments of "Lady Ruby" from the servants and guards they passed.

After a few minutes, they reached the grand dining hall. The room was vast, its high ceilings supported by towering pillars carved with depictions of demonic legends. A long table stretched nearly the entire length of the hall, laden with an array of exquisite dishes. At the far end, Crayiel Vasilias sat, her delicate frame draped in her signature white dress. She ate with a calm, almost otherworldly grace, her long, dark blue hair cascading over her shoulders like a silken waterfall. Even seated, her presence was commanding, an unsettling mixture of beauty and menace.

Ruby approached the long dining table, her crimson cloak trailing behind her with each step. She stopped just a few paces from Crayiel, whose calm and icy demeanor was as unyielding as ever.

"It has been a while, Leviathan the III," Ruby greeted, her voice steady yet tinged with a playful edge.

Crayiel didn't bother to look up, her delicate fingers slicing a piece of her meal with precision. She took a deliberate bite, chewed, and swallowed before speaking. "Not long enough, I'm afraid. It brings me no joy to be in your presence again, Belphegor the III."

Ruby let out a weary sigh, one hand on her hip. "Oh, come on, are you still holding a grudge over those pranks? I never meant to hurt you, let alone cause anything serious."

Crayiel reached for a silver chalice of wine at her side, sipping it languidly before responding, her voice devoid of warmth. "A few tasteless pranks and petty mischief are one thing. But you know I've never liked you, and yet you always insisted on forcing your so-called friendship upon me. I find you insufferable and thoroughly detestable."

Her tone was calm, but there was an edge to it, an undercurrent of disdain that made Ruby grimace. Ruby's lively and spirited personality had always clashed with Crayiel's measured and composed nature—a fact that Ruby had long accepted but never allowed to hinder her usual enthusiasm.

Instead of responding with irritation, Ruby slid into the chair beside her, grabbing a bite of the lavish banquet spread across the table. "Aww, well, I'm sorry you still hate me. But from what I've heard, you're looking for someone who, let's just say, happens to belong to me."

Her words carried a teasing lilt, though inwardly she stifled a laugh. "Jaune would lose his mind if he heard me say that about him" she thought, amused.

Crayiel's hand froze mid-motion. The chalice in her grip cracked sharply, its stem breaking into shards as her piercing sapphire eyes finally turned to meet Ruby's.

"Jaune," Crayiel said coldly, her voice like a blade slicing through the air. "I know he's in the human world. To my knowledge, he has no contract with you. He doesn't belong to you."

Ruby poured herself a glass of juice from one of the nearby crystal pitchers, her lips curling into a faint, almost mischievous smile. "Eh, well, technically, he's the slave of my contractor. So, by extension, that makes him mine."

She took a slow sip, hiding her amusement behind the rim of the glass. She could practically hear Jaune's protests in her head, but she brushed them aside. Protecting him mattered more than the technicalities.

Crayiel's icy composure faltered for a moment, the intensity of her gaze sharpening. Ruby's words had clearly struck a nerve.

"If he's just a simple slave to you," Crayiel began, her voice steady yet tinged with emotion, "then I see no reason for you to stand in my way. To me, he's far more than that. You know I've never cared for the human world or its insignificant denizens. They've never moved me, not even slightly. I don't even desire the title of Demon Lord; that's why I've left it to Neptune to pursue in the name of our family."

Her expression softened just slightly, though her tone remained firm. "But Jaune... he showed me that humans aren't as insignificant as I thought. They're weak—pathetically so—but they're also entertaining and surprisingly clever. I haven't had fun with anyone in years, yet he managed to amuse me. He's intelligent, unlike you or most other demons I've met. So why deny me this? I promise I won't remove any of his limbs. I admit I may have... exaggerated a little during that incident at the castle. Perhaps I overreacted."

Ruby blinked, momentarily caught off guard by Crayiel's candid admission. It wasn't often that the stoic demoness expressed anything resembling self-awareness.

Still, Ruby's skepticism remained. She set her glass down, her eyes narrowing slightly. "I don't believe you, Crayiel Vasilias. I'm almost certain you'd hurt him if he ever did something to displease you, no matter how small. I know you too well. You hate me over stupid pranks and my personality, and you've tried to kill me more times than I can count because of it. I can handle you—I'm strong enough for that. But Jaune? He's not. He'd die in one of your fits of rage without even realizing what he did wrong."

Crayiel closed her eyes, her expression unreadable as she seemed lost in thought. After a brief silence, her voice broke through, calm yet laced with an undercurrent of restrained animosity.

"I truly wish I could kill you," she admitted, her words carrying a chilling honesty. "You have no idea how much. But I'm glad I failed in my previous attempts. Not because I've had a change of heart, but because I have no desire to face your mother's wrath. She would annihilate me, and while my father might attempt to protect me, even I'm not certain he could succeed."

Her piercing sapphire gaze reopened, locking onto Ruby's with an unwavering intensity. "But don't think for a moment that I intend to surrender in this matter. I want Jaune, and I will not be dissuaded."

Ruby let out a slow, resigned sigh, recognizing the inevitability of where this was heading. "It seems we won't reach a peaceful resolution, huh?"

Both women rose from the table in unison, their movements deliberate, composed. Yet the air around them grew heavier with unspoken tension, as though the room itself held its breath in anticipation.

Crayiel straightened, her voice carrying a weight of authority and tradition. "For centuries, we demons have settled disputes in simple and direct ways. A duel should suffice to resolve this."

The challenge hung in the air, a declaration that needed no further elaboration. Ruby met Crayiel's gaze evenly, her stance firm and resolute. The path forward was clear, and neither of them intended to back down.

(…)

Emerald's right palm drove into Yang's stomach with terrifying precision, the impact reverberating through the blonde's body like a shockwave. Yang's eyes widened in pain and disbelief as saliva escaped her lips, her knees buckling beneath her.

Emerald's expression was a study in cold fury, her face stoic but her piercing gaze burning with restrained anger. She pulled her hand back smoothly, watching as Yang collapsed to her knees, clutching her abdomen.

Oscar stood frozen, his mouth agape. "What… what kind of technique was that?" he stammered, his voice barely above a whisper. Jaune's face reflected shock and concern

Blake sprinted forward, her golden eyes wide with worry. Dropping to her knees beside Yang, she wrapped an arm around her classmate to steady her. "Yang! Are you okay?"

Emerald's expression twisted into one of disdain as she regarded Blake. "Step aside, Kitty. I'm far from done here."

Blake's ears flattened slightly, her body tense as she glared back at Emerald with a mixture of defiance and caution. "You… To think you'd know internal damage techniques. Whoever trained you is far from ordinary."

Yang coughed, drawing Blake's attention, but the blonde's lips curled into her signature cocky grin despite the pain contorting her features. "Don't get involved, Kitty-Cat. Things are just getting interesting."

Blake hesitated but nodded, retreating a few steps to give them space. Her stance remained defensive, ready to intervene if necessary, but she respected Yang's determination.

Emerald's lips curled into a cruel smile, her sharp red eyes narrowing. "I respect your concern for her, Kitty. Clearly, you're not like the rest—far too refined to be a mere delinquent. But let's not pretend this is going to take long. Isn't that right, Yang?" She tilted her head slightly, her voice dripping with condescension. "You can try to put on a brave face, but I know it's hard for you to even move right now. That strike was direct, and your body is still reeling."

Yang coughed again, wiping the corner of her mouth as she slowly pushed herself to her feet. Her movements were unsteady, but her confidence never wavered. "Hah… Don't get cocky, bitch. This is far from over."

Of course that was not the only fight right now.

Coco adjusted her sunglasses with a flick of her finger, her smirk exuding unshakable confidence as she squared off against Joanna. "I hope you've got more than brute strength."

Joanna rolled her shoulders, her expression calm but determined. "Don't worry about me, street rat. I've faced tougher than you in the ring."

The tension snapped like a taut string as Coco darted forward. She opened with a sharp roundhouse kick, the air hissing as her leg sliced toward Joanna's ribs. Joanna reacted swiftly, stepping in and raising her forearm to block the strike with a satisfying thud.

"Not bad," Joanna grunted, her feet shifting as she aimed a quick jab at Coco's stomach. Coco pivoted on her heel, avoiding the punch with ease, and retaliated with a spinning back kick. Joanna ducked under it, rolling to the side before springing to her feet.

"Fast and flashy," Joanna admitted, her tone almost admiring. "But let's see how you handle some real power."

Wasting no time, Joanna surged forward, using her weight and momentum to drive Coco back. She feinted a right hook, causing Coco to raise her guard, before grabbing her arm and yanking her into a shoulder tackle. The impact sent Coco skidding backward, but she regained her footing almost instantly.

Coco clicked her tongue, brushing imaginary dust off her jacket. "Not bad for a brawler, but you'll have to do better than that."

Without hesitation, Coco closed the distance again, this time delivering a rapid combination of punches aimed at Joanna's torso and head. Joanna parried the blows, her muscular frame absorbing the hits she couldn't block. She countered with a sudden upward shove, forcing Coco off balance, and followed up with a low sweep kick aimed at her legs.

Coco leaped over the sweep with feline agility. "You're strong, I'll give you that. But you're not the only one who knows how to handle herself."

She lunged, her knee driving toward Joanna's chest, but Joanna caught it mid-air, locking Coco's leg under her arm. With a grunt of effort, Joanna spun Coco to the ground, pinning her down with a practiced grappling move.

Coco struggled beneath her, twisting her body and attempting to dislodge Joanna's hold. But Joanna's experience as a wrestler shone through as she shifted her weight expertly, locking Coco's arm and neck in an immobilizing hold.

"Hah," Joanna exhaled, a triumphant grin spreading across her face. "Don't tell me you can't break out of this? You're strong, but you're not at my level."

And the other fight was worse on the beacon side.

Henry Marigold lunged forward, swinging the stun rod in a wide arc toward Fiona's side. She sidestepped effortlessly, the rod passing harmlessly through the space where she'd been a moment before. With a sharp thrust, her saber darted toward Henry's torso, but he twisted away just in time.

"Not bad," Henry quipped, recovering quickly and retaliating with a jab aimed at her shoulder. Fiona ducked under the strike. She responded with a quick flick of her wrist, the tip of her saber grazing the fabric of his uniform.

Henry glanced down to see a thin tear in his sleeve. "Hey! This was brand new!"

Fiona's smile widened, playful and teasing. Henry pressed forward, swinging the stun rod in a flurry of rapid strikes. Fiona danced around him, her footwork impeccable as she avoided every electrified swing. With a sudden feint, Henry managed to close the distance, forcing Fiona to dogde a downward strike. Sparks flew and Fiona quickly disengaged, retreating a step with a sharp intake of breath.

"Careful," Henry taunted. "One touch from this baby, and you'll be out cold."

Fiona tilted her head, her smile never faltering. "I'll keep that in mind. But let's see how long you can keep up before you tire yourself out."

The duel continued, Fiona's speed and precision keeping her one step ahead of Henry's force and aggression. Her saber darted in and out like a viper, leaving small cuts in Henry's uniform as he struggled to land a hit. A quick thrust nicked his cheek, drawing a thin line of blood.

Henry froze, touching his cheek and staring at the blood on his fingers. "Hey, I thought that thing wasn't supposed to cause any real damage!"

Fiona chuckled softly, her tone sweet but tinged with mockery. "Well, I'm just too good with this, so it's hard to hold back— even with a modified weapon like this. Don't worry. If you end up too hurt, I'll take care of your wounds myself."

Henry flushed slightly at her words, momentarily distracted. Fiona used the opportunity to press her advantage, her saber whistling through the air as she forced him onto the defensive.

Henry's movements grew sloppier, his breathing labored as he swung the stun rod in increasingly desperate arcs. Fiona danced out of reach each time, her strikes growing bolder. Another quick slash tore a new cut into his jacket, and Henry stumbled back, panting heavily.

He wiped sweat from his forehead, glaring at Fiona, who remained completely composed. She stood a few paces away, her saber leveled at his chest, her smile as radiant as ever.

"Honestly," she said with a light, almost mocking tone, "the only reason you've lasted this long is that I've had to be particularly careful with that thing of yours."

Henry blinked, processing her words, before realizing she meant his stun rod. He clenched his jaw, frustration flashing across his face, but Fiona's calm confidence left no room for doubt—she had been in control the entire fight.

Yang shifted into a ridiculous martial arts pose, her legs bent far too low, her arms flared out dramatically, and a confident grin plastered on her face. "Since you hit me with a special technique, it's only fair I return the favor with something of equal caliber, don't you think?"

Oscar's jaw dropped, his eyes wide with amazement. "Wow! Does Miss Yang actually have a secret special technique? Jaune, have you seen this before? How dangerous is it? Is it part of some martial art? I didn't even think Miss Yang knew anything about martial arts!"

Jaune, standing beside him, couldn't hide his incredulous expression. His thoughts were less enthusiastic. "She doesn't know shit about martial arts, let alone have a special technique. She's just a brawler who hits hard. But... I guess I shouldn't crush Oscar's excitement."

As a good friend, Jaune decided to play along. With a falsely alarmed tone, he said, "Oh my god, Yang's really about to use that forbidden technique!"

Oscar gasped, his excitement only growing. "The forbidden technique?!"

Yang, completely unaware of their exchange, grinned wider and suddenly launched herself forward, shouting, "Blazing Dragon Kick!" Her leg swung out in a wide arc.

Emerald's eyes narrowed as she sidestepped the attack with some effort, the kick narrowly missing her. Yang didn't hesitate, following up with two heavy punches. "Meteor Barrage!" she shouted.

Emerald ducked and leaped back, avoiding both punches, though they came alarmingly close.

Oscar clapped his hands together, shouting, "That's it, Miss Yang! Incredible!"

Jaune, meanwhile, facepalmed internally, thinking,"Those are literally just her regular attacks."

Oscar turned to Jaune, his face full of curiosity. "Even though they looked like her usual moves, I'm guessing the damage must be much higher because they're special techniques, right?"

Jaune forced a sarcastic smile, deciding to keep the charade alive. "Exactly, Oscar. As expected of someone who's fallen for Yang, your instincts are sharp. If Emerald had taken even one of those attacks, she'd be done for, haha."

Emerald, standing a few feet away, brushed a strand of hair from her face and smirked ironically. "Those were supposed to be special techniques? Don't make me laugh. Only an idiot would believe that nonsense."

Yang scratched the back of her head, looking thoughtful. "I was debating between the Shoryuken or maybe the Hadouken. They've got that special flair, y'know?"

Emerald stared at her, dumbfounded. "You idiot, those don't even look like those moves!"

Before Yang could respond, a sharp, amused laugh cut through the tension on the rooftop. Coco Adel's voice rang out. "I've gotta admit, Yang always knows how to make me laugh."

Coco was pinned to the ground by Joanna in a firm hold, the wrestler's strength evident as she locked Coco in place. Despite her predicament, Coco smirked, looking up at her opponent.

"You think that grip of yours is perfect, huh?" Coco teased. With a sudden twist and a burst of agility, she slipped out of Joanna's hold and countered with a swift kick to Joanna's chest.

Joanna staggered back, her eyes widening in surprise as she regained her footing.

Coco pulled a small cloth from her pocket and calmly cleaned her sunglasses, placing them back on her face with a self-assured grin. "Honestly, I'm not the type of girl who gives it her all in a fight. I like to have a little fun."

Emerald let out an exasperated sigh, her patience clearly worn thin. Her voice turned cold and sharp, cutting through the tension. "I've had enough of your nonsense, Yang Xiao Long. You've always been like this—spouting idiotic remarks, getting in my way, making me angry. I still remember our last fight."

Yang's grin widened slightly at that comment, as if amused by Emerald's irritation, but the latter wasn't about to indulge her any further. Her tone became even icier. "Allow me to show you what a real special technique looks like."

With deliberate precision, Emerald shifted into a strange stance, her posture low and her arms poised with calculated intent. The shift in her demeanor sent a ripple of unease through the rooftop.

Blake, observing from the sidelines, narrowed her eyes and felt a chill run down her spine. Her thoughts were laced with concern. "This girl... she's dangerous."

Yang's grin faded into a serious expression. Yet, even in the face of Emerald's unsettling stance, she didn't seem rattled. Her confidence remained intact, her fiery determination as steady as ever.

Emerald, now calm and collected, spoke in a serene and measured tone, her voice carrying an air of finality. "Let me give you one last piece of advice. I'm doing this for Jaune, and only for him. He'd hate to see you gravely injured, after all. This technique combines my mastery of Muay Thai and Bājíquán. If you take it head-on, you'll spend weeks in the hospital."

She paused, her eyes narrowing dangerously as she suddenly moved with alarming speed. "So," she shouted, her voice carrying the weight of her power, "dodge it, Yang!"

Blake's instincts flared as she saw the sheer ferocity in Emerald's movements. Her voice rose in alarm. "Yang, this girl is serious! You'd better not take that attack!"

Yang raised her guard, her stance firm and ready, her golden eyes locked on Emerald. Yet, just as Emerald closed the distance, ready to unleash her technique, the strike never came.

A hand, firm and unyielding, caught Emerald's right arm mid-motion. The interruption was so sudden, so precise, that everyone froze.

Emerald's eyes widened in shock as she turned to see who had stopped her. The figure standing behind her was striking: a tall, blonde girl with long, flowing hair. Her face was framed by a pair of sleek glasses, her sharp features both beautiful and commanding. Dressed in a pristine Atlas uniform, she exuded an aura of authority that demanded attention.

"Stop this," the girl said calmly, her voice carrying a tone of quiet power. "Ren hasn't given you permission to use that technique until it's ready, has he? You'd better stop, Emerald."

Emerald froze, her voice trembling with a mixture of shock and frustration. "Jane..."

The blonde—Jane—stood firm, her presence alone enough to halt the chaos on the rooftop.

Everyone on the rooftop stood stunned by the sudden appearance of the newcomer, but no one was more shocked than Jaune. His voice broke through the silence, laden with disbelief. "Wait… Jane? What the hell—?"

Oscar, standing beside him, quickly pieced things together, nodding in understanding. "Right… Jane Arc. She's your sister, isn't she?"

Jaune's response was slow and reluctant, as though he could hardly believe what he was seeing. "Yeah, Oscar… but don't tell me she's—" He hesitated, his voice dropping into a groan. "She's not in the student council, is she?"

Oscar scratched the back of his head, a little surprised by the question. "Actually, she is. I thought you knew by now, considering she's your sister and all. She's also the captain of the chess club."

Jaune let out a long, exhausted sigh, running a hand through his hair. "Of course. Of course she's in the student council. Oscar, you don't understand—out of all my sisters, she's one of the most... complicated. I'd planned to talk to her to learn more about the council, but I had no idea she was involved in all of this. And how the hell did she even get here? I thought this was the only way up," he muttered, gesturing toward the door.

Oscar, ever the problem-solver, quickly pointed to a nearby corner of the rooftop. "She probably used the emergency stairs. They're over there."

The Beacon students were visibly confused by the situation, but it was clear that the other student council members were on edge. Their faces betrayed varying levels of unease, especially Fionna, who appeared nervous, and Joanna, who had gone pale.

Jane Arc, now fully taking charge of the scene, adjusted her glasses and spoke with authority, her tone sharp and commanding. "It would be best if you all stopped this now. It's bad enough that you went behind my back—and the president's—to orchestrate this little situation. He's not pleased about it, as I'm sure you know."

Fionna tried to look nonchalant, whistling quietly as though she had no idea what was happening, while Joanna stared at the ground, avoiding Jane's piercing gaze.

Before anyone else could speak, another voice rang out from behind Jaune and Oscar, calm and composed. "These things happen. It's no big deal."

The room collectively turned toward the door, and Emerald's eyes widened in shock. "Ren!" she exclaimed, her voice laced with both surprise and nervousness.

Standing at the entrance was an student, dressed immaculately in Atlas' uniform. His professional demeanor was only accentuated by the medals adorning his chest, a testament to his accomplishments. His posture was composed, his expression unreadable, and yet his presence was commanding.

"May I come through?" He asked politely, his tone even and controlled.

Jaune and Oscar instinctively stepped aside, making room for him to pass. As he walked past, Jaune leaned toward Oscar, whispering, "Oscar… who is this guy? Another student council member, I'm guessing?"

To Jaune's surprise, Oscar's expression had shifted into one of genuine fear. After a moment of hesitation, the younger boy managed to stammer out a response. "This… isn't good. With him here, I doubt Beacon has any chance of winning this fight. That's—" Oscar paused, lowering his voice even more. "That's the guy who taught Emerald martial arts. He's also the president of the student council."

Jaune blinked, taking another look at the calm figure now walking across the rooftop. "Seriously? Him? He doesn't look all that strong."

Oscar shook his head, his tone growing grim as he explained. "That's Lie Ren. The young master of the Ren family of martial arts. They say his family has mastery over almost every martial art in the world. And him? At his age, he's already considered a prodigy—a master in the martial arts world. He's monstrously skilled."

Hearing this, Jaune finally understood why Oscar was so rattled. He frowned, his thoughts racing. "A master of multiple martial arts, huh? Yeah… that's definitely not something Yang can handle."

Ren came to a stop near Emerald and Jane, his neutral expression unchanged.

Emerald, visibly nervous, spoke in a hushed tone. "I'm sorry about this, Ren… I just really wanted to fight Yang."

Blake, who had been observing everything from the sidelines, found herself more intrigued than anything. Her sharp eyes picked up on the subtle tension in the air, her thoughts quietly forming. "Emerald looks a little worried. And it's not just her." She glanced at the others. "The other two—Fionna and Joanna—they look scared. This guy must be really strong."

Ren, unaffected by the unease around him, responded calmly to Emerald. "These things happen. Human beings are, after all, governed by their emotions."

Suddenly, an energetic voice rang out, shattering the tense atmosphere.

"Well, well, looks like you're all having fun without me, huh? Mind if I join in?"

All eyes turned toward the corner of the rooftop, where, standing with an unmistakable grin, was none other than Nora Valkyrie. She was clad in a pristine white-and-blue waitress uniform—clearly tailored to Atlas' refined aesthetic. The crisp white blouse was neatly buttoned, its short sleeves adorned with subtle silver embroidery. A navy blue vest hugged her torso, accentuating her athletic frame, while a matching knee-length skirt allowed for mobility without sacrificing elegance. A frilled white apron completed the ensemble, giving her an oddly formal yet undeniably charming look.

Yang smirked at the sight of her.

Blake, however, blinked in mild confusion. "Nora… why are you dressed like that?"

With her usual boundless energy, Nora laughed and waved a dismissive hand. "Ah, Miltia gave me a call! Said something interesting was happening at the academy, so I rushed over as soon as my shift ended."

As she took in her surroundings, her gaze landed on Henry, who was hunched over, panting heavily in front of Fionna.

"Oh wow, Marigold—you look like shit. That girl too much for you?"

Henry spat on the ground, then casually flipped her off in greeting. "Good to see you too, Nora. And meh, I've got this under control."

Fionna chuckled at his words. "Yeah… totally. I'm so on the ropes here."

Nora tapped a finger against her chin, deep in thought. "So… who's fighting me? C'mon, c'mon, I wanna see what Atlas is made of! I haven't had a good fight since we got here." She then grinned mischievously and turned toward Yang. "Or do you wanna go another round? We're still tied, one-one, after all."

Yang chuckled and rolled her shoulders. "I don't mind kicking your ass again, Nora."

Meanwhile, Jaune was quietly observing the exchange, his inner thoughts filled with exasperation. "These idiots… there's no point in fighting each other when we're on the same side."

Oscar, on the other hand, was watching Nora with open admiration. "Wow… so that's Nora Valkyrie, the former number one before Yang beat her. She's not that tall, but her presence is massive."

Jaune couldn't help but agree. "Nora is incredible. Her presence is overwhelming… Honestly, I still can't believe Yang managed to beat her."

A loud, amused laugh rang out, drawing their attention to Coco, who smirked as she casually greeted the newcomer.

"You're super late, Nora. Looks like this whole thing's about wrapped up already. Right, chief?" The last word was deliberately playful, clearly directed at Ren.

Ren sighed, already sounding exhausted. "That's correct." Then, turning to Nora, he continued, "I'm afraid this matter is settled. The academy is not a place where violence should be freely indulged. This needs to stop."

Nora's grin faded slightly as she regarded him carefully, a flicker of thought crossing her usually carefree expression.

Ren, however, had already shifted his focus. His gaze landed on Joanna, his tone carrying a quiet but firm reproach.

"Joanna, you're a third-year. You should be preventing situations like this, not allowing yourself to be swept up in Emerald's impulses. I expected better from you."

Jaune raised an eyebrow in surprise as Joanna responded in a noticeably subdued manner. "I'm sorry, Ren… I'll be more responsible in the future." Her tone was soft, almost timid—an unexpected contrast to her usual demeanor.

Meanwhile, Fionna had all but hidden behind Henry, though her attempts were far from effective. Henry, amused, merely chuckled at her failed attempt at subtlety.

"Oh no", the sheep Faunus thought to herself, "I think Ren is actually mad."

Ren's eyes shifted to Fionna. "The same goes for you, Fionna. And May as well. You're all acting like children. This isn't appropriate."

Emerald shut her eyes and took a deep breath. "Yeah… he's definitely mad."

Jane, ever composed, cleared her throat, redirecting the conversation. "President, it's fine to reprimand them—I completely agree—but May is unconscious. I believe it would be prudent to take her to the infirmary. She's bleeding a little from the nose."

Finally looking down at May, Ren sighed once more, shaking his head. "This is exactly why I told you not to provoke Beacon. Look at the state she's in."

As he spoke, Nora had been steadily inching closer to him. Her movements were casual—almost absentminded—but the moment Ren finished his sentence, she suddenly stood right beside him.

Her eyes gleamed with amusement as she tilted her head. "You're pretty cute, huh? And from what I can see, you're the leader here. That's good." She grinned, eyes narrowing playfully. "Let me get a taste, yeah?"

Ren blinked, momentarily confused. "Taste—?"

His words were cut off as Nora's right leg shot up in a powerful kick aimed straight at him.

Emerald's eyes widened in alarm. "Ren!"

But Jane Arc didn't so much as flinch. Her expression remained unreadable—calm, almost indifferent. She knew exactly what was going to happen.

Ren had caught Nora's kick with his left hand—effortlessly.

A flicker of genuine surprise crossed his face before he spoke, his tone still composed. "Impressive. Such ferocity… I'm surprised."

Emerald, however, had no intention of standing by. Seeing an opening, she lunged forward, her palm striking directly at Nora's stomach with the same technique she did to Yang earlier.

"Don't touch Ren!"

The force of the strike sent a ripple through the air, the sheer impact making those nearby feel its weight.

Blake's heart skipped a beat. "Nora!" But Nora… didn't even flinch.

She looked at Emerald with wide, curious eyes, tilting her head. "Huh. That was supposed to hurt me or something?"

Emerald's breath caught in her throat. A chill ran down her spine as she instinctively stepped back. "What the hell?"

Oscar and Jaune were equally stunned.

"Whoa…" Oscar muttered, still processing what he had just seen. "That was the same technique that made Yang drop to her knees… and it didn't even phase her."

Coco, watching with keen interest, smirked thoughtfully. "Nora's internal strength must be on a whole different level. Yang must be more vulnerable to those kinds of attacks, but against Nora… it's useless. Interesting."

Meanwhile, Yang, who had remained quiet up until now, scowled slightly, her mood visibly souring. "Seriously? That weakling Emerald's attack didn't do anything to her, but it worked on me?"

Ren let out a slow, measured breath, pressing his fingers against his temple as if to stave off a growing headache. His voice, though calm, carried an unmistakable weight.

"It seems that today, everyone has awoken with an insatiable thirst for battle, huh?"

His gaze eventually settled on Nora, his sharp eyes scrutinizing her with quiet fascination. There was something different about her—something beyond mere strength. After a brief silence, he finally spoke again, his voice steady, almost contemplative.

"I must admit… you are quite extraordinary. Emerald's attack had no effect on you whatsoever. Your internal strength is beyond crazy—I trained her well. She is more than capable of subduing thugs and holding her own against powerful opponents. But you…" He narrowed his eyes slightly. "You are one of those anomalies of nature, aren't you? A prodigy born for combat."

At that, Nora's grin widened, her excitement unmistakable. She placed her hands on her hips, tilting her head ever so slightly.

"Heheh… if you keep staring at me like that, I just might start blushing," she teased, a playful gleam in her eyes. "So? Are you getting in the mood for a fight?"

Ren did something unexpected then—he smiled. A rare, tranquil expression that softened his otherwise composed features. He closed his eyes for a brief moment, as if savoring a thought only he could comprehend.

"Unfortunately, I cannot allow myself that indulgence." His tone was quiet, but beneath the surface, something dangerous lurked. "It is… difficult for me to control myself once I let go."

The air shifted. It was almost imperceptible, yet the effect was immediate. A sudden chill ran through those present, an instinctive, primal reaction to something they couldn't quite name.

Blake felt it the strongest.

Her breath hitched ever so slightly, her fingers twitching as an uneasy sensation crept up her spine. Her golden eyes darkened with wariness, her mind racing.

"This guy…" she thought, feeling the hairs on the back of her neck rise. "For just a brief second, I felt a bloodlust so sharp, so tangible, that it made my skin crawl. This presence… the only other person who's ever made me feel this way was Yang's friend—that girl, Neo."

Ren's expression shifted once more, the fleeting moment of intensity vanishing as swiftly as it had appeared. His smile faded, replaced by his usual composed neutrality. He exhaled through his nose, shaking his head.

"This isn't good. As The student council president, I should not be acting so inappropriately." He turned his gaze toward Jane Arc, his tone measured but firm. "Jane, would you take command for the time being?"

The blonde met his eyes with an unwavering nod.

"Understood."

Jane Arc stepped forward, her posture rigid with authority, her sharp gaze sweeping over the gathered students. With an air of finality, she spoke.

"Alright, the show's over. Joanna, Fionna, take May to the infirmary."

She then turned her icy stare toward Emerald.

"As for you—you'll have to deal with some consequences. Perhaps assisting me with paperwork for a month will be punishment enough."

Emerald visibly paled at those words, her lips parting in protest, but she said nothing. Jaune and Oscar silently stepped aside, allowing Joanna and Fionna to carry the unconscious May past them.

Ren was the next to leave.

Yang, watching them depart, scoffed and crossed her arms.

"Seriously? You're just gonna run away? Cowards."Nora, looking equally dissatisfied, clicked her tongue in irritation. "Yeah, yeah, don't leave just yet! I just got here, and I was really looking forward to beating someone into the ground."

Her eyes flicked toward Yang with newfound interest. "Huh… so, do we fight instead?" Blake sighed, rubbing her temples, already tired of her classmates' antics.

"Just drop it already."Jane Arc finally addressed them again, her expression unwaveringly cold.

"This matter is officially over. The student council has a duty to prevent situations like this from escalating, but Cordovin loves keeping up appearances. So, the authorities are here."

At her words, Coco and Henry walked toward the railing of the rooftop and peered down. Below, a few police cars were stationed outside the academy.

"Geez," Coco muttered, shaking her head. "They seriously called the cops over something like this?"Henry, unfazed, simply shrugged. "Eh. If they arrest me, I'll be out in less than an hour. I've got money."

Even reckless fighters like Yang and Nora knew better than to get involved with the authorities.

Jane continued.

"We don't believe it was necessary to escalate things this far, so if you stop now, the authorities won't need to get involved. I'm sure you can settle this dispute elsewhere." With that, she turned to leave, but just before stepping through the rooftop door, she glanced back at Yang.

"I still don't understand how my little brother associates with a violent, brainless creature like you, Yang Xiao Long."

Yang clenched her fists, barely restraining herself from throwing a punch. She didn't remember Jane well, but from that remark alone, she could tell Jane was a bitch.

Jane left without another word, but as she passed Jaune, she paused momentarily. "We're having dinner tonight, Jaune. We have a lot to talk about." And with that, she disappeared down the stairwell.

Jaune groaned, rubbing his forehead. "Ugh… I can already imagine the kind of lecture I'm gonna get." Emerald was the last to leave. She walked toward the exit but stopped to glance over her shoulder at Yang.

"You got lucky this time, big-tits monster. Next time, you won't be so fortunate."Yang's signature smirk returned. "You talk too much, weakling Emerald."

As Emerald stepped past Jaune, she smiled at him and gave him a playful wink before descending the stairs.

The situation had reached its conclusion, yet it left no one truly satisfied.

(…)

The arena of Belphegor's castle was steeped in an eerie, almost reverent silence. Ruby Rose and Crayiel Vasilias stood at the center of this grand stage, their gazes locked in quiet determination.

Ruby's crimson cloak swayed as she spoke, her tone both steady and teasing. "Since we're in the Demon World, I don't see the need for any restrictions."

Crayiel's expression remained unreadable, but her voice carried the weight of cautious pragmatism. "I would agree, but if we damage your mother's castle… I do not wish to imagine the consequences."

A smirk played at Ruby's lips as she shifted her stance slightly. "Don't worry. A protective enchantment surrounds this entire arena. Any damage we cause here won't affect the rest of the castle." Her silver eyes glinted with mischief. "Unless, of course, we go all out. Then we might just shatter the barrier."

Crayiel seemed momentarily relieved, a faint glimmer of reassurance passing through her deep sapphire eyes. But it vanished just as swiftly, replaced by cold determination. "The winner will take Jaune."

Ruby arched an eyebrow. "First blood?"

Crayiel scoffed, her usually composed features twisting into mild indignation. "Don't be stupid. I know full well that you are very fast. You could easily draw blood before I so much as touched you."

A playful chuckle escaped Ruby's lips as she extended her right hand. With a whisper of crimson energy, her weapon materialized—Crescent Rose. The massive, blood-red scythe gleamed under the ethereal light, its elegantly curved blade exuding a quiet, lethal promise.

"Figures it wouldn't be that easy," Ruby mused, twirling the weapon with practiced ease before resting it lightly against her shoulder. "Alright then, we fight until one of us admits defeat or loses consciousness. But no transformations."

Crayiel closed her eyes, as if weighing the fairness of the proposal. After a brief pause, she reopened them, her voice measured yet resolute. "Partial transformations, then. I accept your victory condition, let's begin."

Ruby's blade sliced through the air with deadly precision, her body a crimson blur as she dashed past Crayiel. A thin line of red appeared on the demon's pale arm, a shallow cut, but a cut nonetheless.

"Heh, guess you were right," Ruby smirked, pivoting on her heel as she skidded to a stop. She twirled her scythe with ease, the blade humming with energy. "First blood is mine."

Crayiel regarded her wound with disinterest, flexing her fingers before her flesh mended itself, the cut sealing as if it had never existed. "So it is," she murmured, voice eerily calm. Then, without warning, her arms twisted and contorted, pale flesh hardening into gleaming claws that snapped open with a sickening crack.

Ruby's grin widened. "heh, i always liked your crab stuff"

Crayiel's response came in the form of a lunge, her claws shooting forward like spears. Ruby barely had time to react, twisting her body mid-air as the sharp pincers clashed together where she had stood a fraction of a second earlier. The sheer force of the impact sent a shockwave through the arena, rattling the seats where Neptune, Neo, and Junior watched in silence.

"Damn," Junior muttered. Neptune leaned forward, eyes narrowing. "Crayiel isn't the type to hold back that much. Ruby's in for a fight."Neo simply smirked, crossing her legs and watching with amusement.

In the ring, Ruby landed on the ground, barely catching her breath before Crayiel's attack continued. The demon's claws extended unnaturally, stretching like serpentine whips. Ruby ducked, flipped, and weaved between them, her speed barely keeping her ahead of the relentless assault. The air cracked as one of the pincers shot past her face, missing by inches and slicing through a stone pillar behind her like butter.

"Okay, yeah, that's a problem." Ruby exhaled, tightening her grip on Crescent Rose.

Crayiel twisted her body, the claws retracting before she raised one high. A concentrated stream of water shot out from that claw, the liquid moving fast. Ruby barely managed to spin her scythe in time, deflecting the attack as the pressurized water cut a deep gouge into the arena floor.

"Oh, come on!" Ruby groaned, dashing forward. "Water attacks? That's so unfair!"

Crayiel said nothing. Instead, she swung her claw toward Ruby's midsection. The red-cloaked demon barely had time to dodge, feeling the wind pressure as the pincer passed mere inches from her ribs. Using her momentum, she propelled herself upward, spinning mid-air as she brought Crescent Rose down in a diagonal slash. The weapon crackled with demonic energy, releasing a shockwave of crimson force that carved through the air toward Crayiel.

The pale demon responded instantly. Her claws retracted just in time for her to sidestep, but the delayed shockwave still caught her, sending her skidding back. She glanced down at the fresh gash on her torso before her body began to mend once more.

Ruby frowned. She was fast, but Crayiel was durable. And that regeneration... it wasn't infinite, but she had no idea how long it would take for Crayiel to slow down.

The pale demon gave her no time to think. With an unnatural movement, her claws extended once more, forcing Ruby into a defensive dance, each of her movements narrowly avoiding a fatal strike. The pressurized water followed, cutting into the battlefield like blades. One blast grazed Ruby's thigh, slicing through fabric and flesh alike.

"Tch—!" Ruby winced, stumbling for a moment before flipping backward to create distance. Blood dripped from her leg, and she landed unsteadily, panting.

Neptune tensed in the stands. "She's getting overwhelmed." Junior crossed his arms. "She'll figure something out."

Ruby exhaled sharply, shaking out her leg before glaring at Crayiel. "Alright, new plan."

With a burst of speed, she vanished, her form flickering as she zigzagged unpredictably. Crayiel's eyes flicked around, tracking her movements, but before she could react, Ruby was above her.

Crescent Rose spun like a hurricane, a vortex of crimson energy spiraling outward as Ruby unleashed a storm of slashes, moving so fast that her afterimages remained behind. The whirlwind of attacks engulfed Crayiel, each cut deep, her regeneration unable to keep up with the sheer number of wounds opening across her body.

Crayiel staggered, for the first time looking... pressured.

Ruby landed, gasping for breath, her body aching from exertion. "Not so easy to heal everything at once, huh?"

Crayiel exhaled, steadying herself as she examined her torn flesh. Slowly, the wounds began to close, but the process was sluggish. Ruby smirked—she was right. Crayiel couldn't keep up with multiple deep injuries.

But the pale demon only chuckled softly. "Impressive," she admitted. "But if you think this is enough to make me surrender..."

In an instant, her claws slammed into the ground, cracking the stone beneath them. A sudden burst of pressurized water erupted, sending Ruby flying backward. She barely managed to flip mid-air, landing roughly, her body protesting in pain. Blood trickled from her lips as she wiped her mouth with the back of her hand.

"Damn," she muttered, forcing herself to stand. "She's really stubborn."

Crayiel rolled her shoulders, her body still mending itself. "If you don't kill me, you'll lose,i won't fall" she said, voice unwavering. "This is too important. I won't lose Jaune."

Ruby's grip on Crescent Rose tightened, her eyes softening. "You want him that badly?"

Crayiel's expression shifted—an uncharacteristic, almost human-like smile crossing her lips. "I told you, he's the first creature that truly entertains me. I have to admit, I probably can't win this fight if I don't go all out... but I refuse to accept an existence where I never see him again."

Ruby exhaled, lowering her weapon slightly. "I don't want to kill you, Crayi. You might not think of me as a friend, but you've always been one to me. If I let you see Jaune again, would that satisfy you?"

Crayiel blinked, staring at her, almost incredulous. Then, slowly, she nodded.

Ruby said this next "Jaune is my friend, I don't want to see him hurt but I don't want you to be miserable either, if you follow some of my conditions I will let you see him."

For the first time, Crayiel's lips curled into a genuine, innocent smile. "Hah. I can't believe you're saying this... considering how much I hate you." Ruby grinned. "Guess I'm just super cool like that. Oh, and the first condition? You have to admit we're friends."

Silence. Then—laughter. Crayiel laughed, full and unrestrained, something even Neptune had never seen before.

Finally, after her body had finished mending, Crayiel was happy. "Fine," she said, shaking her head. "A small price to pay for seeing Jaune again."

(…)

Jaune Arc sat alone in a modest restaurant, idly swirling the juice in his glass as he waited. It wasn't a particularly fancy place—just a quiet, comfortable spot in the heart of Atlas where one could sit and have a meal without much fuss. The soft hum of conversation filled the air, the occasional clinking of cutlery punctuating the otherwise subdued atmosphere.

After a few minutes, the door swung open, and his sister stepped inside. Carrying herself with an innate elegance that commanded attention, even in casual wear. A thick, dark-blue coat was draped over her shoulders, shielding her from the biting cold outside. As she approached the table, she unfastened the coat and removed it in one fluid motion, revealing the outfit underneath—a fitted white turtleneck sweater, tucked neatly into tailored black trousers, paired with ankle-length heeled boots.

Jaune offered a lopsided smile as she took a seat across from him. "Hello, Jane."

"Little brother," she greeted in return, her tone exuding the same mixture of fondness and authority she had always wielded.

A waitress approached shortly after, pad in hand. Before Jaune could even glance at the menu, Jane placed their order without hesitation. "Two specials, please."

The waitress nodded, jotting it down before walking away, leaving the siblings alone at last.

Jane wasted no time. She exhaled sharply, folding her arms as she gave Jaune a withering look. "You're an idiot, Jaune. You should've come to see me the moment you arrived in Atlas. What kind of brother does that?"

Jaune sighed, already bracing himself for the conversation ahead. "Oh, come on. You're always busy. Studying, training, doing… what is it you always say? 'Something useful and productive,' blah, blah, blah." He leaned back slightly, his tone dripping with casual defiance. "I didn't want to bother you."

Jane pinched the bridge of her nose, as if trying to center herself. "Jaune, I always have time for family. You should know that by now. I'm disappointed."

Jaune took another sip of his juice, rolling his eyes slightly. "What a shock. You've never been particularly interested in my life or what I do. Every time we talk, it's just you criticizing me for something—who I talk to, what I'm doing, how I spend my time."

Jane's eyes narrowed at his words, irritation flickering across her features. "Obviously. You insist on being friends with that delinquent girl with no future. Just because you got into Beacon doesn't mean you need to associate with people like that."

Jaune set his now-empty glass down with a little more force than necessary, his patience wearing thin. "That 'delinquent' is my best friend and the reason my life at Beacon isn't a living hell. I won't sit here and let you talk about her like that, so you better stop before you really piss me off." His gaze hardened, his voice carrying an edge Jane rarely heard from him. "Besides, I think you're forgetting exactly how I ended up at Beacon in the first place. Or have you conveniently erased that from your memory?"

Jane's sharp composure faltered. For the first time that evening, she looked genuinely remorseful. Her fingers curled slightly against the table, and she hesitated before speaking. "Jaune, I… Father and Mother sacrificed you so the rest of us—me and our sisters—could have better opportunities. It wasn't fair." Her voice was softer now, tinged with something that almost sounded like regret. "And I bear a lot of that guilt. I'm the only one who was sent to Atlas. Mother said it was because I was always the smartest, that she wanted me to reach my full potential here… but I know that if they had sent me somewhere else—Vacuo, Mistral—you wouldn't have ended up in Beacon."

"I know, deep down, you must hate me for that," she admitted, her gaze searching his face. "And I wouldn't blame you. But please understand—I worry about you. I love you, little brother."

Jaune was silent for a moment, an unreadable expression settling over his features. Just then, the waitress returned, setting down their meals—a steaming plate of seared beef with roasted vegetables and a side of golden-brown bread rolls. It was simple, hearty, and a welcome distraction from the heavy air lingering between them.

They ate in silence for a while, each lost in their own thoughts. Finally, Jaune set down his fork and exhaled. "I could never hate you, Jane." His voice was quiet, but firm. "You're my sister. And I'm sorry I didn't come to see you sooner." He paused, then added, "What Mom and Dad did… I won't lie, it felt like they doused me in cold water. It made me realize that, to them, I was never as important as the seven of you. But I never blamed you or our sisters for that."

He looked up, meeting her eyes with an unwavering gaze. "I'd rather not talk about it anymore. The only thing I ask is that you don't badmouth Yang or the other students from Beacon."

Jane studied him for a moment before nodding. She knew pushing the issue any further would only drive them apart, and that was the last thing she wanted. "Alright."

With that, they resumed their meal, the tension between them easing just slightly.

(…)

The following day, within the faculty lounge of the third-year building, Blake Belladonna, Yang Xiao Long, Jaune Arc, Coco Adel, Nora Valkyrie, Mercury Black, and Henry Marigold stood in a tense line before the imposing desk of Caroline Cordovin. The room was lined with shelves brimming with books, multiple desks arranged neatly around the space. Two professors flanked Cordovin as she addressed them, her arms crossed, eyes closed in apparent exasperation.

"I can admit that our students acted inappropriately, but you have no excuse. I warned you all that such incidents would bring consequences. Your expulsion from this institution is now on the table. What do you have to say in your defense?"

Jaune Arc felt a chill run down his spine. His face was slightly pale as confusion settled in. "I don't understand. Jane told me I wouldn't get in trouble since I didn't fight. So why the hell am I here?"

Swallowing his nerves, he hesitantly raised a hand, addressing Cordovin. "Uh, but I didn't do anything to be here."

Cordovin exhaled sharply and responded in an unusually patient tone. "I'm sorry, young Arc. I didn't wish to involve you in this either. You seem just as intelligent as your sister, but unfortunately, the company you've chosen has led to this outcome."

One of the professors standing beside her scoffed, cutting in with an indignant tone. "Don't act innocent, boy. We've received reports of you wandering around the academy, gathering information. Not to mention the rumors that you're the so-called strategist and mastermind of Beacon. You won't slip away so easily."

Jaune's nerves only worsened. "Eh, but that's totally fake news! Literally, all I did was witness the conflict!" A sinking dread settled in his stomach as he considered the repercussions."If I get kicked out, I'll never hear the end of it from my parents. I won't even be able to criticize them for not sending me to a better school anymore."

Before he could respond further, Blake Belladonna stepped forward, her expression composed yet firm. "Please, Jaune truly had nothing to do with what happened. If someone must take responsibility, let it be me. I should have maintained better control over my peers, so it's only natural that I bear the consequences. But at the very least, let the others remain. Give them the same punishment you gave the Atlas students."

The room fell into stunned silence. Even those who had been irritated by the accusations couldn't help but be surprised at Blake's noble self-sacrifice.

Cordovin opened her eyes, regarding Blake with a tired sigh. "I respect your intent, girl. But I must inform you that the only students penalized are the three from the Muay Thai club who injured young Winchester. They have been suspended for three weeks."

Mercury and Henry were the first to react with open indignation.

"Is this a fucking joke?" Mercury snarled. Henry scoffed, shaking his head. "I suppose we should have expected this."

Cordovin's expression remained impassive as she continued, "The student council holds significant authority. In order to maintain order and uphold the academy's rules, we grant them considerable freedoms to handle such matters. Yesterday's incident fell under their jurisdiction. When we learned that students from Beacon would be joining us, we expanded their authority even further to ensure they could handle any issues accordingly. They will not face any punishment."

The weight of the decision settled over the gathered students, the unfairness of it palpable.

Blake Belladonna's voice rang out, filled with indignation. "This is completely unfair!"

Coco Adel removed her sunglasses, revealing an expression both cold and furious. "What a pathetic joke. They can attack us whenever they feel like it, and we're not even allowed to fight back? They started this conflict, and we can't even return the favor? Even someone like you must see how ridiculous this situation is."

Blake turned toward Yang and Nora, who had remained silent until now. "Hey! You two should say something about this!"

Nora closed her eyes for a moment, considering, before shrugging. "Eh, I don't really care about all this. I just want to go beat the shit of that cute guy from yesterday."

Yang, on the other hand, flashed her signature confident grin. "Hah, I want to go beat up that bitch Emerald. Can we go now?"

Blake felt the overwhelming urge to tear her hair out. "This is NOT the time to be thinking about fights! Don't you idiots understand that they're expelling us from the academy?!"

Jaune Arc had to stifle a chuckle at Blake's exasperation. He felt a little bad for her, but he knew that for Yang, this wasn't a big deal. However, Henry Marigold's sudden smirk caught everyone's attention."Actually, Belladonna, for once, Yang and Nora have the right mindset."

Everyone turned toward him as he continued, his tone laced with amusement. "If we're already 'expelled,' why not finish what the student council started?" His gaze shifted to Cordovin. "You know who I am, don't you, Miss Cordovin?"

The smugness in Henry's voice made Cordovin's expression twist in mild disgust. He pressed on, undeterred. "If you want to involve the authorities, I can take care of that. So there's really nothing you can do to stop us. The only real consequence here is that we get expelled, and honestly? Who cares? We'll just go back to Beacon. Simple as that."

Cordovin inhaled deeply, composing herself before responding. "Arrogant child… But yes, I do not wish to create unnecessary conflicts with the Marigold family. I cannot allow you to cause more problems than you already have. Headmaster Ironwood would not be pleased if I let this chaos escalate. So, I have a proposal for you."

Henry's confident smirk widened at her words. The rest of the group looked on, surprised at how smoothly he was maneuvering the conversation.

"In one month, our school festival will take place," Cordovin continued. "It's an event where students can relax, have fun, and compete in various activities. I will arrange for you to face the student council during the festival. However, it will not be a fight. You will compete against them in a sport. I will ensure that it's something in which they have no prior experience, making it a fair challenge for both sides. If you win, your expulsion will be revoked. It's a fair deal, and far more than you deserve."

Henry chuckled mockingly. "You're mistaken, Miss Cordovin. Honestly, if you were in business, you'd fail instantly. Your offer sounds good, yes—but it's not balanced. After all, we're the only ones with something to lose, aren't we? If we win, you must strip the student council of all their privileges and special liberties. Make them just as vulnerable as the rest of the student body."

To everyone's surprise, Cordovin smiled mysteriously and agreed. "As you wish." But her expression soon hardened. "However, you must accept whatever happens in one month. Understood?"

Henry gave her an exaggeratedly mocking bow, his smirk never fading. "Of course. In business, it's important to honor one's word."

Jaune couldn't help but smile to himself, thinking, "As expected from the heir of a family that runs an international corporation—he really does have a mind for these things, huh?"

The Beacon students exited the faculty office, leaving behind the tense atmosphere that had threatened to suffocate them. Blake was the only one who bothered with a respectful farewell. "Excuse us," she said curtly before stepping into the hallway.

As they made their way toward Beacon's classroom, Coco sauntered up beside Henry and, with a playful grin, wrapped an arm around his neck in an almost affectionate chokehold. "Huhuhu, you're craftier than I thought, Marigold. I think I might be falling for you."

Henry merely smirked, slipping effortlessly from her grip. "I respect your good taste, Adel, but you're not my type."

Coco arched a brow, her expression turning downright mischievous. "Oh, let me guess… is it because I don't have cute little animal ears?"

Mercury let out a short laugh, unable to resist jumping in. "Oh, that's right! First Belladonna, then that sheep girl from the student council—you've got a thing for Faunus chicks, don't you? What a shameless fetishist. Damn, Marigold, never pegged you for the type."

Henry reddened slightly but waved him off with a scoff. "Hey now, I just like cute things. Nothing wrong with that."

Jaune, however, wasn't as amused, rubbing his temples with a sigh. "Huh… I mean, we got out of that unscathed for now, but I'm still not sure about this. There's still a real chance we'll end up expelled."

Outside the faculty office, Ilia and Trifa had been waiting, both immediately perking up when they spotted Blake. They hurried over, concern evident on their faces.

"How did it go?" Ilia asked.

Blake groaned, pinching the bridge of her nose. "Ugh, what a complete pain in the ass. We're safe for now, but we'll have to compete in some sport during the school festival to avoid expulsion."

Ilia and Trifa exchanged uneasy glances. "A sport?" Trifa echoed. "That's not good."

Nora let out a dramatic yawn, stretching her arms over her head before turning to Jaune with an all-too-eager glint in her eye. "Hey, Jauney, any idea where I can find that pretty boy from the student council? I wanna go knock his teeth in."

Jaune exhaled deeply, already exhausted. "Nora, we can't afford to get into any more trouble. If you really want to fight someone, you'll have to do it off school grounds."

Yang, who had been unusually quiet up until now, remained silent, her arms crossed as she brooded. Her only real interest in all this was the chance to deliver some overdue payback to Emerald. But she knew full well that Jaune and Blake wouldn't allow it, so for now, she kept her thoughts to herself.

In the faculty office, the two professors who had been standing beside Cordovin exchanged wary glances before one of them finally spoke.

"Are you certain about this, Ma'am? I'm not sure it was appropriate to risk the authority of the Student Council in such a manner."

Cordovin, however, merely offered a cold, knowing smile, her arms still folded as she leaned back slightly against her desk.

"There's nothing to be concerned about," she assured them, her tone laced with quiet amusement. "Those insolent children will soon find themselves in over their heads. They're nothing but delinquents—barely capable of anything beyond mindless violence. A standard sporting event will be far beyond their capabilities. And besides..."

Her eyes glinted with satisfaction as she continued, "The Student Council has Lie Ren. There is no possible way they could lose to the trash from Beacon. If anything, we should be celebrating. In a month's time, we'll finally rid ourselves of some of those pests."

A slow, calculated chuckle escaped her lips.

(…)

Back in their classroom, the students of Beacon found themselves discussing the predicament they now faced. Ilia was the first to voice her thoughts, arms crossed as she leaned back in her chair.

"A sport, huh? I wonder what they'll make you play."

Jaune rubbed his temple, considering the possibilities. "Huh… volleyball? Baseball?"

Mercury groaned in frustration, his expression darkening. "I fucking hate volleyball. I really hope it's not that bullshit."

Henry, meanwhile, was casually scrolling through his cool scroll, an amused smirk playing on his lips. "Relax. It's just a damn game. Whatever it is, we can handle it."

Blake let out a tired sigh, visibly weary from all the day's events. Sensing an opportunity, Henry turned his attention to her with a teasing glint in his eyes.

"Hey, Belladonna. I think I really outdid myself this time. How about a date as a thank-you for my brilliant work?"

Blake didn't even bother opening her eyes. "We do owe you, Marigold, but shut up. Why don't you go bother the sheep girl from the council? Pretty sure she liked you."

Yang, who had been largely uninterested in the discussion up until now, suddenly realized something important. She turned to Jaune, curiosity evident in her golden eyes.

"Hey, Jauney-boy, now that I think about it—Ruby, Neo, and Junior haven't come back yet, have they? At the very least, Junior should be here. He's our damn teacher, after all."

Jaune frowned, now that Yang had pointed it out. "Huh… good point. Maybe something's happening in the Demon World?"

As if on cue, the classroom door swung open with sudden energy, and in strode Ruby, full of life as usual, followed closely by Neo.

"Hey, how's everyone doing?! Did you miss me?" Ruby beamed, hands on her hips, waiting for a response.

Considering most of the class wasn't particularly close to Ruby, the reaction was… underwhelming. Blake gave her a brief nod of acknowledgment, but the only ones genuinely pleased to see her were Yang, Nora and Jaune.

Jaune was the first to respond. "Oh, Ruby! How'd it go? Everything okay in the Demon World?"

Neo's expression was complicated as she folded her arms, hesitating before finally speaking. "Jaune… let's just say things went fine, but something happened that might affect you a little."

Jaune raised an eyebrow. "Uh… what?"

Before Neo could elaborate, the classroom door opened once again, this time revealing Junior, who strode in with his usual composed demeanor.

"Good morning, everyone. I apologize for my tardiness—I had something important to take care of."

The students quieted down as they took their seats, curiosity piqued by the sudden shift in atmosphere. Once the room had settled, Junior cleared his throat.

"This is a bit sudden, but a new student will be joining your class. Come in."

That certainly caught everyone's attention. Jaune, in particular, had questions."Weird… I don't think they'd throw a regular student in with us. Could it be someone from Beacon who was missing? But I feel like all the important ones are already here…"

Before he could overthink further, Nora's voice rang out with a mixture of recognition and amusement. "Oh hey, I remember you! Weren't you the girl who wanted to kill Jaune?"

The room collectively turned as the new student entered, clad in Atlas' uniform. However, she opted for a skirt—modest, but revealing just enough to accentuate her long, pale legs. The rest of her attire was pristine, exuding an eerie elegance that made her presence all the more striking.

Crayiel Vasilias.

The moment she stepped forward, the atmosphere shifted. Her cold, marble-like expression surveyed the room, calculating and detached.

Yang's jaw nearly hit the floor. "What the fuck."

The others exchanged glances, a mix of intrigue and unease flickering across their faces. But none of them—none—had a reaction quite as dramatic as Jaune Arc.

His expression could only be described as sheer, unfiltered terror. His mouth hung open in an absurdly exaggerated manner, eyes wide, pupils dilated, the very essence of a man who had just glimpsed his own impending doom.

Crayiel's lips curled ever so slightly into a smile, a chilling yet oddly enchanting expression. "I am Crayiel Vasilias, or if you prefer—Leviathan the III."

For those unfamiliar with the intricacies of demon hierarchy, the name meant nothing. But for those who understood…

Mercury let out a low whistle. "Damn. She's pretty cute, huh?"

But Crayiel's attention wasn't on Mercury. Her icy gaze locked onto Jaune, and that haunting, unreadable smile deepened.

"It's a pleasure to see you again, my dear Jaune. I hope you will take good care of me."

Blake instantly tensed. "Wait, what? She knows Jaune? Hold on—don't tell me this is…"

Deery, ever the observant one, stifled a laugh. "Poor Blake. The competition just keeps getting tougher, huh?"