Secrets of Arc

by The Builder's Return

The Worker of Secrets is reborn into the body of a deceased Jaune Arc. Watch as the worker of Secrets embarks on a new journey to fulfill Jaune's dream of being a hero. Romances are not determined but may be possible later on. Rated M for trauma and darker themes. Infinity Blade and other games/RWBY Crossover.

4. Chapter 4

Chapter 4

The platform settled onto the chamber floor with a dull, grinding thud, and for a long, heavy moment, none of them moved. The weight of what had just happened pressed down on their shoulders like an invisible force.

Jaune wasn't with them.

Ruby stood near the edge, staring at the empty space where he had been, where he should be. Her hands trembled at her sides, curled into tight fists. Her mind raced with everything she wanted to say, but there was nothing left to say—Jaune had made his choice, and they had been forced to leave him behind.

Yang exhaled sharply, dragging a hand through her hair. "I can't believe he just…" She trailed off, shaking her head in frustration.

Weiss crossed her arms tightly over her chest, her voice uncharacteristically small. "He let it happen... like he was ready for it."

Blake stood silently near the back, her amber eyes flickering between the towering temple walls and the path ahead. The oppressive weight of the temple seemed to still cling to her, even as they finally reached what they thought was the exit.

A heavy groan reverberated through the chamber, and the massive stone doors ahead creaked open, revealing the outside world—or so they thought.

As they stepped forward, expecting the fresh air to offer some relief, they were met with an invisible wall. Ruby hit it first, gasping as her hands pressed against an unseen force. It shimmered faintly in the light, a barrier that rippled like water beneath her touch, yet remained impenetrable.

"...We're still trapped," Weiss breathed, pressing her hand against it. "We can't leave."

Yang clenched her fists, frustration mounting. "Are you kidding me?!" she growled, slamming her hand against the barrier. The ripple of energy barely acknowledged her effort.

Blake's ears twitched, her voice quiet but tense. "I thought we made it..."

And beyond the shimmering wall—Qrow.

He stood just outside the barrier, leaning against a cracked stone pillar, his crimson eyes scanning them with sharp concern. He took a swig from his flask, watching them carefully.

Ruby felt a surge of hope at the sight of him. "Uncle Qrow!" she called out, pressing closer to the barrier. "We're here! Can you hear us?"

Qrow's brows furrowed. He took a step forward and tapped the air with his flask, watching the faint ripple of energy shimmer in response. His lips pressed into a thin line.

"So... this thing's still up, huh?" He sighed, rubbing the back of his neck. "Figures."

Weiss scowled, frustrated. "Can you get us out?"

Qrow studied the barrier for a moment before shaking his head. "I'd love to say yes, kid, but this thing's older than dirt, and I'm not exactly a wizard." He gestured toward them. "You tell me—what happened in there?"

The group fell into a heavy silence.

Ruby swallowed hard, stepping back slightly. "Jaune… he's still inside." Her voice was barely above a whisper, but the weight of it was deafening.

Qrow's eyes darkened immediately. "Where's he?"

Silence stretched too long before anyone could answer.

Qrow sighed, his posture tensing. "Alright," he muttered. "What happened to the Invincible Human?"

Blake froze.

Her heart pounded in her chest, and the air around her suddenly felt suffocating. That name... that title.

She knew it. Intimately.

It's him.

Memories of that night came crashing back, sharper and clearer than ever—the underground station, the flickering lights, the distant sound of collapsing steel. She had been running, breathless, frantic, heart pounding with the raw desperation of escape. And then, he had been there.

A figure standing in the shadows, clad in silver and gold armor, his presence commanding, unshakable.

Cold. Calculating. Protective. Decisive.

She remembered how he had watched her, eyes like twin icy beacons, taking in every inch of her without a hint of hesitation or doubt. He hadn't lunged, hadn't attacked—he had observed. Measured. Decided.

And then, with a voice as calm as death itself, he had spoken.

"Why?"

It wasn't a question of curiosity. It was a judgment, weighing her very soul against something far greater. And then... he had let her go.

Even now, the phantom of his presence lingered in her mind.

And all this time... it had been Jaune.

Blake's fingers clenched tightly around Gambol Shroud, her breathing unsteady. He had known exactly who she was from the moment they met at Beacon, and yet... he had never confronted her. Never questioned her. He had fought alongside her without hesitation, shielded her, trusted her.

He could have ended her that night.

But he didn't.

A shiver ran down her spine, a mix of relief and unease curling in her gut.

He had made the choice to protect her, back then and now.

Blake swallowed hard, forcing herself to push the memories aside. She had a job to do. They all did.

Ren's voice finally broke through her thoughts. "Invincible... what?"

Nora blinked, tilting her head. "Wait, that's Jaune's title? Since when?"

Pyrrha frowned, her emerald eyes narrowing. "That sounds like a Huntsman title... but why would Jaune have something like that?"

Weiss crossed her arms, deep in thought. "I've heard it before... but I always thought it was just a myth."

Yang, on the other hand, grinned. "So our Jaune's got a badass title? And he never told us? Man, I respect the mystery."

Ruby's voice was soft but resolute. "He's still Jaune," she said. "That hasn't changed."

Qrow studied them for a moment before sighing, taking another sip. "Guess he never told you kids," he said. "Figures. Kid's... different. Cold, calculating, but protective to a fault. The kind of guy who doesn't just react—he decides, and once he does, there's no stopping him."

Blake felt the weight of those words in her chest. They described the Jaune she had seen that night—the unwavering, calculating warrior who had chosen to spare her.

And now he was down there, trapped.

She took a deep breath, straightening up, determination burning in her amber eyes. He protected me then. Now it's my turn.

Ruby clenched her fists, looking back toward the temple. "We're getting him back."

Qrow gave her a small nod. "Yeah. But first, let's figure out how to get you out of there."

Blake's grip on her weapon tightened. She owed him.

And this time, she wouldn't run away.

---

Jaune's body stood frozen in the temple's crystalline grasp, the eerie blue light of his prison casting long shadows across the silent chamber. But within his mind, a different reality unfolded.

He watched, a passenger in his own thoughts, as the endless expanse of silver mist stretched out before him, flickering with soft motes of golden light. The atmosphere was serene, almost peaceful, if not for the presence of the dark figure standing before him.

The Worker of Secrets.

Tall, imposing, clad in flowing black and gold robes adorned with shifting symbols that pulsed with ancient knowledge. His cold silver eyes gleamed with relentless calculation, dissecting everything before him with surgical precision.

And yet, standing across from him was a younger Jaune.

This Jaune, untouched by battle and hardship, grinned brightly, his messy golden hair bouncing as he shifted on his feet. His clothes, clean, gleamed with an innocence that no longer existed in reality.

"Hey," the younger Jaune said with a wide grin, waving casually. "You're back."

The Worker tilted his head, observing him with the same intense scrutiny he always did. "You greet me with familiarity," he stated, voice as smooth and cold as steel. "Why? You should resent me."

Younger Jaune simply chuckled. "Why would I? You did everything I ever wanted to do."

The Worker's gaze narrowed slightly. "You do not seek to reclaim control? To undo what has been done?"

Jaune shook his head, his smile soft. "No. My story ended when I died," he said simply. "You carried my body forward. You fought, you protected, you saved people... You did everything I ever wanted to do, but better. I couldn't have done it without you."

The Worker of Secrets remained silent, his eyes locked onto Jaune as if searching for deception. "And yet," he said, "I have felt... something lingering within me. Emotions. Instincts. Drives. These were not my own."

Jaune gave a small, knowing nod. "Guess that means I'm still here... watching from the show." He laughed lightly, his voice filled with warmth. "But hey, I don't mind. I'm just glad it was you."

The Worker studied him in silence for a long moment. "Curious," he finally murmured. "Despite logic dictating your irrelevance, you have persisted. Your presence has... shaped my decisions."

Jaune's grin never wavered. "Yeah, well... somebody's gotta keep you on your toes."

The Worker exhaled a breath that was not quite a sigh, but close. "...You are an anomaly, Jaune Arc. But I have found your presence... not entirely disagreeable."

Jaune smirked. "Coming from you, I'll take that as the highest compliment."

Another pause stretched between them, filled with an understanding that neither voiced.

Jaune's expression softened. "Take care of them, alright? Ruby, Yang, Pyrrha... all of them. They need you." His voice carried the weight of trust and hope. "And don't worry—I'll be around, watching from the front row."

The Worker of Secrets stood in silence for a long moment before, behind his mask, the faintest hint of a smile tugged at his lips.

"Then let us not disappoint our audience," he said softly.

The mist swirled, dissolving around them like dust carried away by the wind.

---

The Physical World

Jaune's eyes snapped open, the eerie blue glow of the crystal prison surrounding him trembling under his renewed will.

Without hesitation, the Worker of Secrets—now fully awake—shifted his fingers slightly, and with a resounding crack, the crystalline energy that held him shattered. Shards of light scattered into the air like dying embers, barely registering that its trapped sacrifice had escaped.

Jaune stepped forward, his boots echoing against the temple's stone floor, his glowing blue eyes locked onto the massive, pulsating crystal at the chamber's center. It still hummed with power, unaware of its failure.

He clenched his fist around the shaft of his spear, eyes cold and unwavering.

Without a word, he pulled back his arm—and struck.

His fist slammed into the crystal with earth-shattering force, and in that instant, he amplified.

A golden glow erupted from his body, flooding through his veins like wildfire, coalescing into raw power that surged through his strike.

BOOOOM!

The crystal exploded outward, sending a devastating shockwave rippling through the temple. Cracks spread like lightning through the ancient walls, and tremors shook the entire structure as if the foundation itself was crumbling under the force of his defiance.

Jaune stood at the epicenter, his form bathed in the same ethereal golden glow that had once belonged to the crystal. It wrapped around him like an aura, as if the temple's power had seeped into him, recognizing him as something... beyond.

Dust rained from the ceilings, the walls shuddering violently, but Jaune remained steady, his spear at his side.

Then, as if connected by some unseen thread, that golden light pulsed outward—reaching his team.

The golden glow pulsed through their bodies like a warm current, filling them with renewed strength. Ruby stared down at her hands, feeling the strange energy coursing through her, making her heartbeat quicken with a mixture of awe and confusion.

"What... what is this?" Weiss asked, her voice uneasy as she looked at the aura surrounding them.

"It's Jaune," Blake murmured, her golden eyes wide with realization. "He did something."

Before they could process it further, a sudden pulse of energy surged outward from the temple, a powerful wave that rippled through the air like a rolling tide.

The barrier—shimmering and unyielding until now—flickered violently.

Then, in an instant, it shattered.

The force sent all of them stumbling forward with a collective thud as they fell onto the rocky ground beyond the threshold.

"Oof!" Yang groaned, pushing herself up, looking around in surprise. "Guess we're not stuck anymore."

Ren was the first to stand, dusting himself off with a furrowed brow. "He must have destroyed the source..."

Weiss adjusted herself quickly, eyes darting toward the temple entrance. "Then that means..."

Before anyone could react, a deep, thunderous crack split the air.

The temple trembled violently as a massive explosion erupted from within, sending plumes of dust and debris skyward. The sound of crumbling stone filled the air as the ancient structure—once towering and foreboding—began to fall apart.

Ruby's breath hitched in her throat as she watched the temple entrance crumble inward. "No..."

And then—

"JAUNE!"

She lunged forward, but Qrow's arm shot out, wrapping around her waist and pulling her back just as another wave of rubble crashed down.

"Let me go!" she screamed, struggling against his hold. "He's still in there! Jaune's still in there!"

Qrow held her tight, his grip firm yet pained. "Ruby, you can't—"

"I have to!" Ruby's voice cracked with desperation, her legs kicking against him. "We promised him!"

The ground trembled beneath their feet as the temple walls, once proud and unyielding, buckled under their own weight. Stones the size of boulders crashed to the earth in deafening thuds, sealing off the entrance in an avalanche of destruction.

Yang watched in horror, her fists clenched tightly. "No way..."

Pyrrha covered her mouth with a trembling hand, her green eyes wide with devastation. "He... he was supposed to come back out..."

Blake stood frozen, her ears twitching at the deafening collapse. Her grip on Gambol Shroud tightened, her mind racing. She had known Jaune was capable of things beyond her understanding, but even he couldn't survive something like this.

Weiss, usually composed, shook her head, her fingers trembling. "We left him behind... we left him."

Nora's lip quivered as she grabbed onto Ren's arm, her voice shaky and weak. "He was gonna get out... right?"

Ren's jaw tightened, his silence more telling than words.

Finally, after what felt like an eternity, the last stones fell into place, sealing Jaune's fate in a tomb of ancient ruins. A heavy cloud of dust lingered in the air, wrapping around them like a suffocating shroud.

Qrow sighed heavily, his face somber. "Damn it, kid..." His voice carried the weight of someone too used to loss.

Ruby stopped struggling, her limbs going limp. She felt like her heart had been ripped out of her chest. When Qrow finally let her go, she sprinted forward, stumbling over the debris, before collapsing onto her knees beside the ruins.

Her fingers dug into the cold stone, her tears falling freely as she sobbed. "No... Jaune... I'm so sorry..."

The others approached slowly, their faces reflecting a mix of disbelief and grief. They had survived horrors together, fought side by side—but now, they stood before the ruins, with the crushing reality of Jaune's sacrifice settling into their bones.

But then—

THUNK.

Everyone froze.

A heavy, scraping sound echoed from deep within the rubble.

Eyes widened in disbelief as they turned toward the source.

A massive stone slab shifted, groaning under the strain, before it was suddenly pushed up, rising with an almost unnatural strength.

More rocks tumbled away, revealing a figure emerging from the dust and debris.

Jaune.

His clothes were specked with dust and grime, his hair messy and matted with sweat, but his glowing blue eyes were sharp and focused. His arms pulsed with golden energy, his Semblance amplifying his strength as he slowly climbed free from the wreckage, a massive slab of stone still held effortlessly above his head.

Ruby sprinted toward him, tears still streaming down her face as she collided into him, wrapping her arms around his waist in a desperate embrace. "You're alive! You're alive!"

Jaune stood still, his exhausted breath filling the air, still holding the stone high. After a moment, he glanced at it, then with a grunt, hurled it to the side.

BOOOOOOM!

The ground shook as the massive slab crashed into the earth, cracking the stone beneath it. The sheer weight of it was enough to make everyone gape in stunned silence.

Jaune let out a heavy breath, wiping sweat from his forehead. "I'm not doing the rest of the initiation," he muttered, his voice deadpan as he locked eyes with Qrow. "If Ozpin makes us, I'm quitting."

Qrow blinked at him for a moment, then burst into a hearty laugh. "Kid, I think you've earned a pass. I'll talk to Oz. You guys have been through enough."

Yang let out a relieved chuckle, wiping away the remnants of tears. "Oh man... I so needed to hear that."

Weiss huffed, rolling her eyes. "Finally, some common sense."

As they started walking away from the ruins, the weight of their exhaustion still pressing on them, the mood began to lighten.

Ruby wiped her face, smiling up at Jaune. "You scared us, you know?"

Jaune chuckled softly. "Scared myself a little too."

As the tension faded, Yang nudged Ruby playfully. "Hey, now that we're all alive and well, does this mean I can finally ask what it feels like to be hugged by a supercharged Jaune?"

Ruby groaned, pushing her sister away with a weak laugh. "Yang, not the time."

"Just saying, the dude just lifted a ton of rock like it was a pillow. I have questions."

Nora grinned. "I mean, I also have questions!"

Ren sighed, but there was a small smile on his face. "Please... not now."

Blake walked beside them, glancing at Jaune thoughtfully, still processing everything she had learned about him. But for now, she let herself enjoy the relief of his presence.

And as the group trudged back toward Beacon, battered but whole, they allowed themselves a few moments of peace—knowing that, for now, they had won.

---

The auditorium buzzed with quiet anticipation as the students of Beacon Academy gathered for the final part of their initiation—the team formation ceremony. The large, ornate hall was bathed in the soft glow of overhead chandeliers, and despite the exhaustion from their grueling trials, the atmosphere was filled with a sense of excitement and relief.

Jaune and his friends stood side by side, their uniforms still bearing the signs of their ordeal. Their bodies ached, but the promise of a well-earned rest after this ceremony kept them upright.

On stage, Professor Ozpin stood with his usual calm demeanor, his hands resting lightly on his cane. Beside him, Professor Goodwitch scanned the assembled students with an appraising look, her tablet in hand.

The large screen behind them flickered to life, displaying the first set of names.

"Team RWBY. Ruby Rose, Weiss Schnee, Blake Belladonna, and Yang Xiao Long."

A round of applause erupted from the audience, and Ruby gasped audibly, her silver eyes widening in surprise as her name was called first.

"I'm the leader?" she squeaked, eyes darting to her teammates.

Yang grinned, slapping her sister on the back. "Way to go, sis! Knew you'd nail it!"

Weiss, standing next to her, crossed her arms and huffed quietly. There was a moment of hesitation before she finally sighed, exhaustion outweighing any lingering frustration. "Well... congratulations, Ruby," she said with a small, almost reluctant smile. Despite everything, she joined in with the others, clapping politely. "Don't let it go to your head."

Ruby beamed, her initial shock giving way to excitement. "I won't! I promise!"

Blake, quiet but pleased, gave Ruby a nod. "You earned it, Ruby."

Ruby's heart swelled with pride, but before she could respond, the screen changed again.

"Team JNPR. Jaune Arc, Nora Valkyrie, Pyrrha Nikos, and Lie Ren."

The applause started again, and this time, Jaune felt the weight of all eyes on him.

Pyrrha smiled warmly at him, clapping the loudest of all. "Congratulations, Jaune."

Nora practically bounced in place, grinning ear to ear. "Our fearless leader! I knew it!"

Ren gave him a calm nod, a hint of pride visible in his normally composed demeanor. "Well deserved, Jaune."

Jaune, however, remained still for a moment, his body aching with exhaustion. He swallowed the lump in his throat, managing only a solemn nod in appreciation. The memories of the temple were still fresh in his mind, weighing heavily on him, but he couldn't deny the small sense of pride creeping in.

"Thanks, guys," he said quietly, forcing a small smile.

From the audience, Yang whistled. "Go, fearless leader!"

Weiss, despite her exhaustion, gave an approving nod. "At least there's some competency there."

Jaune straightened slightly, feeling the moment settle in. He wasn't sure if he was ready for this responsibility, but there was no going back now.

As the applause faded, Ozpin stepped forward again, his voice carrying across the hall.

"And now, for something new."

The murmurs among the students died down instantly, curiosity piqued.

"This year, Beacon Academy will be implementing a new initiative—one that requires a specialized team to venture beyond our borders and take on extended assignments away from the comfort of supply chains and reinforcements."

The screen behind him shifted once more, displaying a new title:

"Expedition Task Force Initiative."

Eyes widened across the audience. Excited whispers began circulating, but Ozpin's voice cut through the chatter like a knife.

"Due to their exceptional performance during the initiation," he continued, "Teams RWBY and JNPR will be merged into a single task force, specially trained to operate in long-term, high-risk environments. Their missions will take them far beyond the kingdoms, where they will face challenges of survival, resource management, and navigation in untamed lands."

Ruby gaped in awe. "Whoa... that sounds... awesome!"

Weiss, however, frowned. "Long-term assignments? Away from civilization?"

Yang grinned. "Think of it as a really long camping trip!"

Ozpin continued, "To ensure their effectiveness in these unique conditions, the Expedition Task Force will undergo additional specialized training, including survival tactics, wilderness resource management, and prolonged operational strategy."

The screen flashed with the categories:

Survival Training

Wilderness Training

Resource Management

Long-term Operational Strategy

Ruby looked at Jaune, excitement shining in her eyes. "This is huge!"

Jaune, still standing solemnly, processed the information with a calculating stare. It made sense. Their experience in the temple had already pushed them to limits most Huntsmen-in-training never reached. He exhaled slowly, shifting his grip on his spear as Ozpin's next words resonated through the hall.

"And leading this task force, as Operations Leader, will be Jaune Arc."

Silence hung in the air for half a second before applause erupted once more.

Jaune's heart thudded in his chest, and he barely had time to react before Nora cheered, throwing her hands into the air. "YES! Operation Arc is GO!"

Pyrrha clapped gently, giving Jaune a proud smile. "Congratulations, Jaune. You'll do great."

Ren nodded. "A fitting choice."

Jaune nodded once, his expression unreadable. The weight of the position settled heavily on his shoulders, but deep inside, he knew there was no turning back now.

"And," Ozpin continued, "his second-in-command, serving as Vice-Commander, will be Ruby Rose."

Ruby gasped. "Wait—me?! Really?"

Weiss blinked, then let out a soft sigh. She seemed on the verge of objecting, but exhaustion dulled her usual sharpness. Instead, she clapped alongside the others, offering a resigned but genuine smile. "Well... I suppose you do have leadership qualities."

Ozpin gave a small smile. "I have every confidence in your ability to rise to this challenge. Your journey will be difficult, but I believe in each of you. Welcome to Beacon's first Expedition Task Force."

As the last of the applause died down, Glynda Goodwitch stepped forward, adjusting her glasses as she eyed them all critically. "Now, if you're all finished celebrating, follow me. Your accommodations have been reassigned in light of your new roles."

Ruby blinked. "Reassigned?"

Glynda nodded, motioning for them to follow. "Your task force requires more specialized facilities, so you'll be moved to a separate dormitory closer to Beacon's southern wing."

As they walked, Jaune's brow furrowed. "That area's usually off-limits."

Glynda's lips pressed into a thin line. "Not anymore. Your dormitory will be adjacent to the private hangar that was recently refurbished for your... expeditions."

The group exchanged glances, curiosity mingling with fatigue.

Jaune remained silent but couldn't ignore the growing sense of responsibility tightening around him. One thing was certain—things were going to be very different from now on.

---

Glynda Goodwitch walked briskly, leading the group of newly minted Team RWBY and Team JNPR down one of Beacon's lesser-used paths. The narrow cobblestone walkway, bordered by overgrown bushes and small stone statues weathered by time, felt almost forgotten. It wound its way from the main campus, through an older part of Beacon that looked like it had been untouched for decades.

Ruby jogged a bit to catch up to Glynda, her silver eyes curious. "Uh, Professor Goodwitch? Where exactly are we going?"

Glynda glanced at her briefly before answering. "To your new dormitory. It's located on the southern edge of the campus."

Yang raised an eyebrow as she walked beside her sister. "Southern edge? That's kind of far, isn't it?"

Weiss huffed quietly, adjusting her ponytail. "It's not the distance that concerns me—it's the implications. Why aren't we staying in the same dormitories as the other students?"

Blake, trailing behind the group, eyed their surroundings with caution. "It's quiet here... too quiet. How often is this area even used?"

Without turning around, Glynda answered matter-of-factly, "Rarely. This building was used decades ago, back when Vale was still new and reliant on Beacon's resources. It served as temporary housing for officials, researchers, and soldiers stationed here. As the city grew and Beacon became more self-sufficient, this building fell out of regular use."

"Wait, soldiers?" Nora chimed in, hopping alongside Ren. "Like Huntsmen soldiers, or... like actual soldiers? Were they fighting Grimm here?"

Glynda adjusted her glasses. "Both, technically. The area was much more dangerous then. However, the threat has since shifted further away from Beacon's borders."

As they rounded a corner, the group stopped in their tracks.

There it was: their new dormitory.

The building looked like it had been pulled straight out of an old fairy tale—medieval stone architecture with tall arched windows, ivy creeping along its weathered walls. While the structure itself was impressive in size, there were clear signs of age. Cracks in the stone, patches of moss along the foundation, and a slight sag to the roof in one corner.

Yang blinked. "Well, this is... rustic."

Ruby tilted her head. "Rustic is a word for it..."

Weiss's expression twisted in mild dismay. "This looks older than my great-grandfather's hunting lodge."

Blake crossed her arms, eyeing the building critically. "It's seen better days."

Glynda turned to face them, her tone as sharp and commanding as ever. "Despite its age, this building is structurally sound. It will serve as your base of operations for the Expedition Task Force Initiative."

Pyrrha glanced at the worn stone walls, a polite but hesitant smile on her face. "It does have... character."

"Exactly!" Nora grinned, throwing her arms out. "We'll make it our own! Right, fearless leader?"

Jaune remained silent, his glowing blue eyes scanning the building's exterior carefully.

Glynda continued, "The headmaster has authorized modernization for the building, but due to budget constraints, those changes are unlikely to begin for several years. In the meantime, you're free to make improvements as you see fit."

"Make improvements?" Weiss echoed, her tone bordering on incredulous. "Are we expected to remodel this ourselves?"

"You will still have access to your team dormitories in the main campus," Glynda replied, ignoring Weiss's tone. "Should you wish to stay there for any reason, your scrolls will allow you access." She turned to the group, her gaze landing briefly on Jaune's arm. Her eyes lingered on his omni-tool for a moment before shifting away.

"If you have any questions," she said briskly, "you can contact me directly."

She gestured to the large, slightly crooked wooden door at the front of the dormitory. "This will be your new home. Make of it what you will."

Without waiting for a response, she turned on her heel and walked away, leaving the group standing in front of the building.

There was a moment of silence as they all stared at the door.

"Well," Yang said, clapping her hands together, "it can't be that bad, right?"

Jaune stepped forward, his expression neutral, and pushed the door open.

A cascade of dust poured down as the heavy door groaned on its hinges, revealing the interior.

Spiderwebs hung from every corner, their silken strands glistening faintly in the dim light. Dust coated every surface in a thick layer, and empty boxes and broken furniture were strewn haphazardly across the floor.

The air smelled of mildew and old stone.

The group collectively froze, their eyes widening in disbelief.

"Okay," Yang said flatly. "I take it back. This is bad."

"More than bad," Weiss muttered, holding her sleeve over her nose. "This is unacceptable!"

Ruby's voice wavered. "Uh... Professor Goodwitch forgot to mention it came with... roommates," she said, eyeing a particularly large spider scuttling across the floor.

Nora poked her head in behind Jaune, wrinkling her nose. "I don't think I've ever seen this much dust before..."

Ren sighed quietly, stepping closer to Nora. "It's... not ideal."

Blake hesitated at the doorway, her golden eyes scanning the interior warily. "This is going to take a lot of work."

Jaune, however, stepped inside without hesitation.

The others watched as he moved through the room, his boots stirring up small clouds of dust.

"Of course he doesn't care," Yang muttered.

"He's inspecting it," Pyrrha observed, watching as Jaune's sharp gaze darted from corner to corner.

He moved with purpose, brushing aside a web with his spear as he approached what appeared to be a common area. Despite the mess, he seemed to be looking through the dirt and decay, analyzing the structure beneath.

Jaune opened a creaking door, revealing a small, functional kitchen. The appliances were old but usable. He continued down a narrow staircase, finding a large storage area beneath the building with thick stone walls and ample space.

The others reluctantly followed, their steps cautious as they navigated the mess.

"Okay, I'll admit," Yang said, peering into the storage area, "this part isn't terrible."

Jaune remained silent, brushing past another web as he found several large office spaces—big enough to host meetings or even small workshops.

And then there were the bedrooms. Ten of them, each large enough to fit two people comfortably, with plenty of space for belongings.

Weiss let out a quiet sigh, rubbing her temples. "It's... salvageable."

Pyrrha smiled faintly. "It's more space than I expected."

Ruby stepped carefully through the dust, glancing back at Jaune as he continued inspecting the building. He didn't seem bothered by the mess or the state of disrepair. If anything, he appeared focused, already cataloging the work that needed to be done.

The group exchanged glances, waiting to hear what Jaune had to say.

Jaune walked through the building's interior, brushing aside cobwebs and stepping carefully around piles of debris. His sharp eyes took in every detail: the cracked stone walls, the dust-covered floors, the spiderwebs in every corner. Yet, beneath the grime, he saw the potential—a functional kitchen, spacious storage beneath the building, a large common area, and enough bedrooms for everyone to live comfortably.

He stopped in the middle of the main hall, turning to face the others as they stood clustered near the doorway, hesitant to step in any further.

"This place has everything we need," Jaune said, his voice calm but firm, "but for now, we're staying in the original team dorms until we get it in working order."

The group immediately sighed in collective relief.

"Thank the heavens," Weiss muttered, visibly relaxing.

Yang grinned, throwing her hands into the air. "Finally! A decision I can get behind."

Nora chuckled, nudging Ren. "See? Fearless leader's got it all figured out."

Blake exhaled, her golden eyes softening as she nodded. "The dorms might not be perfect, but they're better than this... for now."

Ruby smiled brightly. "Good call, Jaune! This place can be nice eventually, but it's gonna take a lot of work."

Jaune crossed his arms, glancing around the room. "It's going to take me some time to get this place up to working standards," he said plainly, his tone matter-of-fact. "I'll need to grab my tools and start working when I have the time."

The group nodded, though most of them were still distracted by the mess around them.

Weiss, brushing cobwebs off her sleeve, spoke without much thought. "Well, in that case, we should head back to the other dorms and—" She stopped mid-sentence, her blue eyes narrowing as she processed what Jaune had just said.

Her head snapped toward him. "Wait. You plan on doing all of this by yourself?"

Jaune met her gaze, unbothered. "It's fine. I can handle it."

"Absolutely not," Weiss declared, her voice sharp and decisive. "Do you have any idea how long that would take? This place is practically falling apart! You'd be at it for weeks—months, even."

Pyrrha stepped forward, a determined smile on her face. "She's right, Jaune. You don't have to do this alone."

Yang crossed her arms, a grin tugging at her lips. "Yeah, we're in this together, fearless leader. If this is gonna be our place, we'll all pitch in."

Nora jumped up excitedly, pumping her fists. "I call dibs on decorating the common room!"

Ren placed a calming hand on Nora's shoulder but nodded firmly. "We'll help in any way we can."

Blake glanced around the building again, her expression thoughtful. "It'll take work, but... this could be worth it."

Weiss sighed but straightened her posture, her eyes narrowing in determination. "If we're doing this, we're doing it properly. I'll reach out to suppliers for furniture, materials, and any extra supplies we'll need."

Ruby's face lit up. "Really? That'd be amazing, Weiss!"

Weiss crossed her arms, her tone haughty but not unkind. "Well, someone has to make sure this place doesn't fall apart while we're in it. And it's not as if any of you have connections to reputable suppliers."

Jaune's gaze lingered on each of them for a moment before he nodded slowly. "Alright," he said quietly, "if you're all serious about this, then fine. We'll make it a group effort."

Pyrrha's smile widened as she looked at the others. "This will be our team's bonding event," she said warmly.

Yang chuckled. "Nothing like cleaning up a haunted castle to bring people closer together."

Ruby raised her fist excitedly. "Teamwork makes the dream work!"

Even Blake allowed a faint smile to tug at her lips. "It'll be worth it... eventually."

The group's enthusiasm seemed to fill the room, pushing back the gloom of the old, dusty building. For the first time, they began to see what Jaune had seen—a place they could turn into a home, with enough work and determination.

Jaune remained resolute, his arms crossed as he surveyed the building once more. He nodded in satisfaction, though his expression stayed calm and serious. "Alright," he said. "Let's get this done."

The team exchanged determined glances, ready to tackle the challenge ahead. Despite the dust, the cobwebs, and the overwhelming mess, they felt a newfound sense of purpose.

Together, they would turn this forgotten building into something extraordinary.

---

The warm glow of the late afternoon sun spilled through the windows of the student dormitories, bathing the hallways in soft light. Team RWBY had already claimed their room, the faint sounds of scraping furniture and muffled voices echoing faintly from behind their door.

Inside, Ruby was sprawled on the floor, a notebook in hand as she scribbled a rough diagram. "Okay, so if we stack the beds like this," she said, gesturing wildly to the crude drawing, "then we'll have plenty of space for our weapons racks over here."

Yang stood nearby, arms crossed, smirking as she watched her sister's enthusiastic planning. "Rubes, we're only here temporarily. Don't you think you're putting a little too much thought into this?"

Ruby shot her an incredulous look. "Yang, bunk beds are a necessity. You can't have a proper dorm without them!"

Weiss, sitting primly on the edge of her bed with her suitcase half-open, rolled her eyes. "You do realize we're going to be moving into that... other building soon, right?" She shuddered slightly at the thought of the dusty, spider web-covered dorm they had just visited.

Blake, leaning against the far wall with her arms crossed, chimed in. "Ruby's right, though. Even if it's temporary, it's still our space for now."

"Exactly!" Ruby grinned triumphantly, pointing her pen at Weiss. "Bunk beds are non-negotiable!"

Weiss sighed but relented with a small shrug. "Fine. But you're helping move them if we have to take them down in a week."

Yang chuckled, giving Ruby a playful nudge with her foot. "I think she just wants to call dibs on the top bunk."

Ruby beamed. "You know me so well!"

As the sisters debated further, Weiss returned to unpacking her essentials—only the bare minimum, given how temporary their stay would be. Blake, meanwhile, quietly arranged her belongings in one corner, her movements efficient and unobtrusive.

The room gradually began to take shape, a mix of personal touches and practicality. Though it was clear none of them were fully settling in, it was enough to make the space feel a little more like home.

---

Team JNPR's Dorm

A few doors down, Team JNPR's room was far quieter, though the atmosphere was no less lively.

Nora had already dumped her bag onto one of the beds, rifling through it with boundless energy. "I call this one!" she declared, flopping down dramatically onto the mattress.

Ren, ever patient, carefully unpacked his own belongings. His approach was minimalist—uniforms neatly folded, a few personal items placed precisely on the small desk by his bed.

Pyrrha sat on her own bed, gently setting her shield and spear against the wall. Her suitcase lay open, filled with only a few changes of clothing and basic necessities. "This feels... strange, doesn't it?" she said, glancing at her teammates.

"Strange how?" Nora asked, sitting up and bouncing slightly on her bed.

Pyrrha smiled faintly. "Knowing this is temporary. That we'll be moving soon to that old building."

Ren nodded thoughtfully. "It's a different kind of dorm, certainly. But it's part of the challenge we signed up for."

Nora grinned, punching the air. "I say bring it on! We're gonna make that place awesome!"

Pyrrha chuckled, her emerald eyes softening. "I suppose you're right. It'll be... an adventure."

As the others talked, Pyrrha's gaze drifted toward Jaune.

Jaune was sitting on the floor, his back against the wall near the far corner of the room. His armor had been neatly set aside, his hands resting loosely on his knees. His head was tilted slightly to the side, his eyes closed, his breathing slow and steady.

At first, Pyrrha thought he might have been deep in thought. But as she watched him, she realized he had fallen asleep.

Her expression softened, a gentle smile tugging at her lips.

Jaune, who had carried so much of the weight during their ordeal in the temple, finally looked... at peace. The tension in his shoulders was gone, replaced by a quiet vulnerability that she had rarely seen in him.

She didn't say anything, not wanting to disturb him.

Nora, however, followed her gaze and gasped quietly. "Aww, look at the fearless leader! He's out like a light."

Ren glanced over and nodded. "He deserves the rest."

Pyrrha smiled warmly. "He does."

The group fell silent for a moment, their usual chatter subdued as they watched Jaune sleep.

Eventually, Nora broke the silence, her usual energy returning in a hushed voice. "So... should we go check on Team RWBY? You know, see how they're setting up their dorm? Maybe bring them some snacks or something?"

Ren nodded thoughtfully. "It's a good idea. They're probably not done yet, and it would be polite to see how they're doing."

Pyrrha glanced back at Jaune, hesitating for a moment before agreeing. "Alright. But let's leave him a note, just in case he wakes up and wonders where we are."

Nora scrambled over to her bag, pulling out a notebook and pen. She scribbled quickly, her handwriting large and bubbly.

"Jaune, we went to check on Team RWBY! Come find us when you wake up! – Nora :)"

She placed the note gently on the small desk beside Jaune, making sure it was easy to see.

Pyrrha looked at him one last time, her gaze softening as she whispered, "Rest well, Jaune."

With that, the three of them quietly left the room, closing the door softly behind them.

There was a sense of quiet camaraderie in the room—an unspoken understanding that, no matter what challenges lay ahead, they would face them together.

And for now, that was enough.

---

The soft morning light filtered through the large windows of Beacon Academy, casting a warm glow on the stone walls. Jaune walked down the dormitory hallway, the plush carpet muffling his footsteps as he hauled a tool bag over his shoulder and carried a small box of supplies from the Tempest in his other hand. The tools clinked faintly with each step, the weight of his preparations pulling on his already sore muscles.

As he approached the cluster of dorms, a sharp, piercing sound cut through the air.

TWEEEEEEEEEEEEEEET!

Jaune paused mid-step, tilting his head slightly in the direction of the noise. It had come from Team RWBY's dorm. A second later, the unmistakable shriek of Weiss Schnee rang out, high-pitched and absolutely panicked.

"RUBY ROSE, HAVE YOU LOST YOUR MIND?!"

Jaune's lips twitched faintly, his calm demeanor cracking just enough to show a flicker of amusement. He didn't even need to guess what had happened.

"GOOD MORNING!" Ruby's cheerful voice followed immediately after, brimming with energy.

Jaune resumed walking, his expression still unreadable, but the faint smirk tugging at the corner of his mouth betrayed his thoughts. Only Ruby.

Shaking his head slightly, he continued down the hall toward Team JNPR's dorm. The quiet hum of the morning returned as he pushed the door open with his shoulder and stepped inside.

The dorm was still wrapped in the haze of early morning.

Nora was sprawled across her bed in a tangle of limbs, snoring lightly with a small line of drool running down her cheek. One arm dangled off the side of the bed, swaying faintly as if she'd fallen asleep mid-motion.

Ren, by contrast, sat cross-legged on his bed, his eyes closed in peaceful meditation. The faint sound of Ruby's whistle and Weiss's distant screaming hadn't disturbed him in the slightest.

Then there was Pyrrha. She was sitting upright on her bed, blinking groggily at Jaune as he entered. Her long red hair was a chaotic mess, with strands sticking out in every direction like she'd just woken up from a particularly restless sleep. She rubbed her eyes before giving him a soft, sleepy smile.

"Good morning," she murmured, her voice still laced with sleep.

Jaune nodded slightly, stepping further into the room. "Morning," he replied, his tone calm and quiet.

He set the tool bag down with a faint thud at the foot of his bed, careful not to make too much noise. As he did, Pyrrha's gaze drifted toward the mirror across the room, and she froze. Her eyes widened in horror as she caught sight of her reflection—her bedhead a disorganized disaster.

"Oh no," she muttered under her breath before bolting off her bed and rushing toward the bathroom, clutching her brush as if it were a weapon.

Ren opened one eye, glancing at Jaune briefly before closing it again. Jaune met his gaze, his expression as unreadable as ever, though there was a faint hint of amusement in his eyes. They exchanged a silent look that perfectly conveyed their shared thought: Another normal morning.

Jaune turned back to his bed, pulling open a drawer in the small dresser beside it. He grabbed a fresh uniform, folding it neatly over his arm before heading toward the small closet in the corner of the room. Stepping inside, he quietly changed into the clean uniform, taking a moment to adjust his sleeves and gloves. By the time he stepped out, he looked polished and composed, his hair groomed and his boots neatly shined.

The bathroom door opened a moment later, and Pyrrha emerged, looking far more presentable. Her hair was brushed to perfection, and her emerald eyes were more alert. She smiled warmly as she glanced at Jaune.

"Good morning again," she said, her tone much livelier now.

Jaune quirked an eyebrow ever so slightly, his expression faintly amused. "Morning again."

Pyrrha tilted her head slightly. "You're already ready? How did you manage that so quickly?"

Jaune adjusted the cuffs of his sleeves, his voice steady. "Classes start in less than an hour. I didn't want to be late on the first day."

Pyrrha blinked, her eyes darting to the clock on the wall. Her face paled. "What?! Less than an hour?" She gasped, rushing back toward her bed and grabbing her uniform in a flurry of motion. "I'm not even dressed yet!"

She bolted back into the bathroom, the door slamming shut behind her.

Jaune glanced at the clock himself, feeling a flicker of relief that he'd showered earlier on the Tempest before returning to the dorms. His calm, prepared state stood in stark contrast to the chaos unfolding around him. He adjusted the strap of his gloves again, his lips curling into a faint smirk.

This is going to be an interesting day.

The loud slam of the bathroom door echoed through the dorm as Pyrrha rushed to get ready, sending a faint tremor through the quiet room.

On the other side of the room, Nora stirred, her arm flopping over the side of her bed as a low groan escaped her lips. "Ughhh... who's slamming doors? I was dreaming about pancakes…" she mumbled, burying her face into her pillow.

Ren opened his eyes from where he sat meditating, his calm demeanor unshaken. "Good morning, Nora," he said softly.

At the sound of his voice, Nora shot upright like a spring, her bedhead sticking out in every direction. "Morning, Renny!" she said brightly, all traces of sleepiness gone in an instant.

Her gaze darted around the room, finally landing on Jaune, who was adjusting the cuffs of his freshly pressed uniform. Nora's eyes lit up. "Good morning, fearless leader!" she chirped, giving him an exaggerated salute.

Jaune gave her a small nod, his voice calm. "Morning, Nora."

Ren stood up from his bed, stretching briefly before moving toward his own dresser to grab his uniform. "We've got just under an hour to get ready," he said as he walked toward the small changing area.

"An hour?!" Nora yelped, hopping out of bed. "That's barely enough time for—oh, wait, I don't need an hour!" She laughed, patting herself on the cheeks as if to wake herself up faster.

Jaune smirked faintly at her antics as he placed the tool bag more neatly at the foot of his bed. Meanwhile, Nora began sifting through her belongings, occasionally muttering things about pancakes, teamwork, and getting Pyrrha to braid her hair later.

As the room bustled with activity, the Worker of Secrets observed silently from within Jaune's mind. The moments like this—the laughter, the camaraderie—were strange to him. They weren't his people, not truly. Yet, they believed they were. To them, the Worker was Jaune Arc, the bright-eyed boy who had become their anchor in the chaos of their missions.

And yet, the Worker couldn't bring himself to dismiss them outright. They were valuable, dependable, and trusting—a trust he had earned, albeit by walking the path Jaune had left behind.

They believe in you, Jaune's voice echoed faintly in his mind. They think you're me. And for all intents and purposes, you are.

The Worker's response came after a moment of thought, his voice cold but not unkind. They are not my team. They follow a construct, a version of this body they think they know.

Jaune chuckled softly in the recesses of their shared consciousness. Maybe. But they've followed you into fire and darkness. They're not mine anymore—they're yours. I died long before meeting them.

The Worker remained silent, the weight of Jaune's words settling over him. He didn't deny it. This team, while inexperienced and at times chaotic, had proven their worth. Their trust was a tool he could wield. But it wasn't just a weapon—it was a responsibility.

You're not wrong, the Worker finally admitted. Their faith is directed at me now. But their belief in me stems from their belief in you.

Jaune's tone softened, carrying an unusual warmth. Call them what you want, but they're your team. They've given everything to follow you. Just... take care of them, alright?

The Worker's calculating mind lingered on those words. Taking care of a team was not something he had ever prioritized in his previous existence. Yet, Jaune's influence within him made the request... reasonable.

You are insistent, the Worker remarked, faint irritation threading his tone.

Because I know you can do it, Jaune replied. They need you to lead them. You've done it so far. Don't stop now.

There was a pause before the Worker's cold, decisive voice answered, Very well. I will take care of them. They are... valuable.

Jaune's presence eased at the agreement, his satisfaction quiet but palpable. Good. That's all I needed to hear.

The Worker let the thought settle and withdrew, allowing Jaune's consciousness to navigate the morning. Yet, for the first time, he felt no friction between their desires. He might not fully understand Jaune's motivations, but he could see their value.

Jaune adjusted the strap of his gloves one last time, his eyes scanning the room. The sound of Pyrrha rushing in the bathroom, Nora's endless chatter, and Ren's quiet efficiency filled the space with an energy he was slowly coming to tolerate—perhaps even appreciate.

This wasn't the path the Worker of Secrets had envisioned, but it was one he would walk, one step at a time. For now, these people—his team—would have his protection.

And with that, he prepared himself for the day ahead.

---

The classroom buzzed faintly with the chatter of students as Team JNPR sat neatly in a row, their uniforms pressed and their weapons safely stowed by their sides. Jaune sat at the far end of the row, his arms resting casually on the desk in front of him. His expression was calm, but there was a faint flicker of amusement in his eyes as he glanced toward the door.

Just as the bell chimed, the door burst open, and Team RWBY stumbled in, panting and disheveled.

Ruby tripped over her own feet as she hurried toward their assigned seats, Crescent Rose clanking loudly as it shifted on her back. "We're not late! We're not late!" she exclaimed, though her flushed cheeks betrayed how close they'd cut it.

Yang followed, her hair slightly frazzled but her grin unwavering. "Told you we'd make it!" she quipped, giving Ruby a playful nudge as they slid into their seats.

Weiss, looking distinctly annoyed, huffed as she adjusted her pristine uniform. "Barely," she muttered under her breath.

Blake, as usual, was quiet, slipping into her seat with an air of practiced calm, though her slightly hurried movements betrayed the fact that they'd nearly missed the start of class.

Jaune leaned back slightly, his gaze following their chaotic entrance. A faint smirk tugged at the corner of his mouth. Even with advanced notice, huh? he thought to himself, finding their antics oddly endearing.

The sound of heavy footsteps drew the class's attention as Professor Port entered the room. He was an older man, dressed in a hunter's uniform that seemed just a little too tight around the middle. His thick mustache twitched as he looked around the room with a dramatic flourish.

"Ah, my eager young scholars!" he boomed, his voice theatrical and hearty. "Welcome to Grimm Studies!"

Port strode to the front of the classroom, his chest puffed out proudly. "Today, we delve into the creatures of the night! The demons! The monsters!" He gestured grandly, pausing for effect before continuing. "The Grimm!"

His booming voice echoed through the room, and several students straightened in their seats, ready for what they assumed would be a lesson filled with valuable knowledge.

"And to me," Port added with a sly grin, twirling his mustache dramatically, "they are simply... prey."

A long, awkward silence followed.

Then, Yang groaned audibly, dropping her head onto the desk. "Oh no," she muttered, her voice muffled.

Port caught her reaction and, with a cheesy wink in her direction, said, "That's why we—the hunters and huntresses—exist! To protect the world from these foul creatures!"

Yang groaned louder, earning a few chuckles from the surrounding students.

Jaune raised an eyebrow, his faint smirk returning. This was going to be a long class.

Port cleared his throat, straightening his posture as he began to pace back and forth in front of the class. "Now, as you all know, the Kingdoms are protected from the Grimm by our walls, our defenses, and, of course, us. But make no mistake!" His voice grew louder, more dramatic. "Beyond those walls, the Grimm wait. They lurk. They yearn to tear us apart!"

Ruby leaned slightly toward Jaune, whispering, "Is it just me, or does he sound like he's narrating an old storybook?"

Jaune gave her a sideways glance, his smirk growing just a fraction.

"And that," Port continued, "is why we must always remain vigilant. Always prepared. For when the Grimm come for us, we must meet them with skill, bravery, and—" He paused dramatically, turning to face the class, "—an unshakable sense of style!"

He posed proudly, as if waiting for applause. Instead, there was another long, awkward silence.

"Moving on!" Port declared, unfazed. "Allow me to regale you with a tale from my own illustrious career! Picture this, my young scholars—a dark forest, the howl of the wind, and the menacing growls of a pack of Beowolves closing in around me..."

As Port launched into his story, complete with exaggerated hand gestures and dramatic reenactments, the energy in the room began to shift.

Weiss leaned back in her seat, her hand supporting her head as she sighed quietly. "Is this really going to help us fight Grimm?"

Blake didn't respond, but her golden eyes narrowed slightly as she tried to focus on what little valuable information could be gleaned from the performance.

Yang, meanwhile, slumped in her chair, staring at the ceiling with a mix of boredom and resignation.

Jaune remained silent, his expression calm but thoughtful as he listened to Port's story. The professor's antics were... unorthodox, to say the least, but Jaune couldn't deny that the underlying message held merit.

Always prepared, Jaune thought. It was something he understood well—perhaps better than most.

As the tale dragged on, Nora leaned over to Pyrrha, whispering, "Think he actually fought those Beowolves, or is this just a bedtime story?"

Pyrrha gave her a polite smile, though even she looked slightly skeptical.

Ren, ever composed, simply observed without comment.

Port continued his story with gusto, oblivious to the mixed reactions of his students. It was clear to everyone that this was going to be a long class, but for Jaune, it was just another opportunity to observe, to learn, and to prepare for the challenges ahead.

---

Professor Port was still in the middle of his exaggerated tale about a Beowulf pack, his booming voice filling the classroom. Most of the students, however, were beginning to lose interest. Even Jaune found his focus wandering as the professor continued gesturing wildly, reenacting each moment with over-the-top enthusiasm.

That was when he noticed Ruby.

Sitting at her desk, she had pulled out a small sketchpad, her pencil moving furiously across the page. Her silver eyes flicked between the paper and her inspiration, her hand sketching with quick, practiced precision.

Every so often, Ruby would let out a quiet chuckle, seemingly entertained by whatever she was drawing. Her carefree demeanor stood in stark contrast to Weiss, who sat stiffly beside her, trying to focus on Port's story with increasing irritation.

Jaune's lips twitched into a faint smirk as he watched Ruby's antics. Her lightheartedness was infectious, and he couldn't help but feel a flicker of amusement.

Eventually, Ruby finished her sketch, holding it up with pride. She leaned over to Yang, showing her creation with a big grin.

Yang glanced at the drawing, her eyes widening before she burst into giggles, covering her mouth with one hand to keep the noise down. "Oh my gosh, Rubes, that's amazing!" she whispered, her voice barely containing her laughter.

Weiss, meanwhile, turned toward them with a sharp glare. "Would you two please take this class seriously?" she hissed.

Ruby, completely unbothered, grinned at Weiss. "I am taking it seriously! Look, I even captured Port's mustache perfectly!"

Weiss's eye twitched, her irritation bubbling just below the surface as she waved Ruby's sketch away. "That's not what I meant."

Beside them, Blake looked up briefly from the book she was reading, glanced at Ruby's drawing, and let out a quiet sigh. She rolled her eyes and returned to her book without a word.

Jaune continued to watch the scene with quiet amusement until Professor Port coughed loudly, snapping the class's attention back to him.

"Ahem!" Port cleared his throat dramatically, placing his hands on his hips as he straightened his posture. "Now, where was I? Ah, yes—the thrilling conclusion!"

The professor launched into the final moments of his tale, his voice swelling with pride. "And with one final strike, I defeated the fearsome Beowulf, saving the village from certain doom!" He gave an exaggerated bow, his mustache twitching as he awaited applause that never came.

Jaune smirked faintly but remained silent, while Weiss looked on with barely concealed irritation.

Port straightened, ignoring the lackluster response from his audience. "Now then, my young scholars, let me impart a crucial lesson. A true huntsman must possess five essential traits." He held up his hand, ticking off each one dramatically. "Honor. Dependability. Strategy. Education. And wisdom."

Weiss's frustration grew as she glanced at Ruby, who was now doodling something else with the same carefree attitude as before. The sight made her bristle, her fingers tightening around her notebook.

"A huntsman must embody these traits fully," Port continued, his booming voice filling the room. "Now, who amongst you believes they possess such qualities?"

Weiss's hand shot up immediately, her voice ringing with certainty. "I do, Professor."

Port turned to her, raising an amused eyebrow. "Do you now? Very confident of you, young lady. Well then, let us see if your claim holds weight!"

With a dramatic flourish, Port gestured to the corner of the room, where a large cage seemed to have appeared out of nowhere. Inside, a boarbatusk snarled and pawed at the ground, its black and white fur bristling with hostility.

Weiss's eyes widened slightly at the sudden challenge, but her posture remained rigid and composed.

The professor grinned, his mustache twitching. "Your opponent awaits, Miss Schnee. Show us if you truly possess the traits of a huntsman."

The class fell silent, all eyes on Weiss as the boarbatusk let out a low growl, its tusks gleaming in the light.

Ruby glanced up from her sketchpad, her silver eyes widening in surprise as she whispered to Yang, "Do you think Weiss can handle that?"

Yang smirked. "She's been itching to prove herself all day. Let's see what she's got."

Blake set her book down, her golden eyes narrowing slightly as she observed the scene unfold.

Jaune leaned back in his chair, his expression neutral but curious. Weiss had talked big, but now it was time to see if she could back it up.

---

The halls of Beacon were quiet, save for the soft clatter of Weiss's boots as she strode purposefully away from the classroom. Her grip on Myrtenaster was tight, her knuckles white as her mind churned with frustration and irritation.

"Weiss!" Ruby's voice echoed down the hall, followed by hurried footsteps.

Weiss didn't stop, her pace quickening.

"Weiss, wait up!" Ruby called again, her voice tinged with concern. She caught up after a short sprint, moving to block Weiss's path. "Hey, what's going on with you today?"

Weiss froze, her icy-blue eyes narrowing as they locked onto Ruby. "What's going on with me?" she repeated, her tone sharp. "No, Ruby. What's going on with you?"

Ruby blinked, taken aback. "Me? What are you talking about?"

Weiss folded her arms, her posture rigid. "You're supposed to be a leader," she snapped, her voice dripping with disdain. "And all you've been so far is a nuisance."

Ruby's eyes widened, hurt flashing across her face. "What? What did I do?"

Weiss let out an exasperated sigh, gesturing sharply as she began listing Ruby's perceived failures. "Where do I even begin? How about your childish antics in the forest? Running around without a plan, dragging the rest of us into chaos. Or maybe your inability to take anything seriously in the dorms—drawing, laughing, treating this like it's some kind of vacation. And today? In the classroom? Interrupting me, distracting me with your ridiculous cheering? You're a joke, Ruby!"

Ruby recoiled as if struck, her voice trembling. "Weiss, where is this even coming from? I thought... I thought we were supposed to be working together. Acting as a team."

Weiss's gaze turned colder, her voice cutting. "Not a team led by you."

Ruby felt the words like a physical blow, her lips parting in shock.

Weiss stepped closer, her tone growing sharper with each word. "I've spent my entire life training for this. Studying, fighting, preparing to lead people into battle. I've worked tirelessly to prove I'm worthy of this responsibility. And then there's you. Someone who just fell into this position without earning it. Someone who treats it like a game."

Ruby shook her head, her voice barely above a whisper. "I didn't ask for this..."

"Exactly," Weiss said coldly, her tone final. "You didn't ask for it. You didn't earn it. You don't deserve it."

Ruby stared at her, struggling to process the words. "Weiss..."

Weiss straightened her posture, her tone as frosty as her expression. "Ozpin made a mistake."

The air grew heavy with silence, Ruby frozen in place, unable to respond.

Then a low, cold voice floated in from the shadows of the hall.

"You're only half right."

Both girls spun around, their eyes widening as Jaune stepped into view. His expression was unreadable, his blue eyes glowing faintly under the dim light of the corridor. He carried himself with a calm, deliberate presence, his voice cutting through the tension like a blade.

Neither Weiss nor Ruby spoke, their shock at his sudden appearance rendering them momentarily silent.

Jaune's gaze lingered on Weiss, his demeanor unyielding, before flicking briefly to Ruby.

And then the moment hung there, heavy with expectation.

Jaune stepped closer, his movements deliberate and unhurried. His piercing gaze shifted between the two of them, taking in their expressions before he let out a quiet sigh.

"Both of you," he said, his tone steady but firm, "cool down."

Weiss opened her mouth to respond, but the sharp look Jaune gave her stopped her in her tracks. Ruby, meanwhile, looked down at her boots, her fingers twitching nervously at her sides.

Jaune turned his focus to Weiss. "You're right about one thing, Weiss. Your training, your studies, your discipline—they make you an excellent candidate for leadership."

Weiss's posture straightened, her shoulders squaring as Jaune's words validated her beliefs. A faint smile crossed her lips, proud and satisfied at the acknowledgment.

Jaune's gaze didn't waver, his voice even as he continued. "You may already be a better leader than Ruby is right now."

Ruby flinched as if struck, her body shrinking in on itself. Her mind flashed back to the temple, to the suffocating weight of her fear—the fear of being left behind, of being abandoned by the people she cared about most.

Her hands clenched into fists at her sides as the memory swelled in her chest, her breathing quickening. She stared down at the ground, her silver eyes hidden beneath her bangs.

Weiss, on the other hand, looked even more validated, her expression triumphant.

But before either of them could speak, Jaune's voice cut through the air again, his words calm but carrying undeniable weight.

"But," he said, his tone shifting slightly, "even with that taken into account, Ozpin did not make a mistake."

Both girls snapped their heads up in surprise, their gazes locking onto Jaune's face.

"What?" Weiss asked, her voice sharper than intended, as confusion flickered across her features.

Ruby blinked, her wide eyes searching Jaune's face for meaning.

Jaune's piercing gaze remained locked on the two girls, the weight of his words still hanging in the air. Before he could continue, a faint glow emanated from his omni-tool, a series of soft beeps and flashes pulling his attention.

The holographic interface flickered to life around his forearm as a stream of notifications appeared, their content scrolling quickly. Jaune glanced at them briefly, his expression remaining unreadable before he deactivated the device with a flick of his wrist.

He turned back to Ruby and Weiss, his tone as steady and firm as ever. "This discussion isn't just about the two of you anymore. Both teams are involved now."

Ruby and Weiss blinked in surprise, their earlier tension giving way to confusion.

Jaune straightened, his gaze calm but serious. "Team RWBY and Team JNPR are having their first emergency meeting. At the Task Force building. Now."

Ruby's heart sank as the weight of his words hit her. She hadn't considered that her argument with Weiss would ripple out and affect the others. She cast a nervous glance at Weiss, but the other girl's expression was carefully guarded.

Neither of them spoke as they followed Jaune out of the hallway and toward the Task Force building. The walk was quiet, the tension between them palpable.

When they arrived, both girls were greeted by the sight of their teammates waiting anxiously near the entrance. Yang was leaning against the wall with her arms crossed, her brows furrowed with worry. Blake stood beside her, quiet but attentive, her golden eyes flicking between Ruby and Weiss.

Nora was sitting on the ground, fidgeting with Magnhild while Ren stood nearby, his calm demeanor masking his unease. Pyrrha stood slightly apart from the others, her expression a mixture of curiosity and concern.

Ruby's eyes immediately went to her sister, and her stomach twisted painfully at the sight of Yang's worried expression. She dropped her gaze to the ground, guilt and shame swirling in her chest.

Jaune didn't stop to address the group. Instead, he stepped forward, opened the door, and held it open for everyone.

"Come on," he said simply, his voice leaving no room for argument.

One by one, the group filed inside, their curiosity piqued.

As they entered, they were immediately struck by the state of the building. It was cleaner than yesterday—significantly so—but still rough around the edges. The walls were still dusty, and cobwebs lingered in some of the corners. But the common room area, the centerpiece of the space, looked surprisingly tidy. The antique furniture had been wiped down, the floor was mostly cleared of debris, and only faint specks of dust floated in the air.

"Whoa," Yang said, glancing around. "This looks... way better than it did yesterday."

Blake nodded slightly, her golden eyes scanning the room. "It's still old, but someone's been working on it."

Pyrrha turned to Jaune, her brows furrowing in curiosity. "Did you do this?"

Jaune gave her a small nod, his tone matter-of-fact. "I couldn't sleep early this morning, so I decided to touch up the place. Figured it'd save us some time when we started working on it fully."

Nora let out an exaggerated groan, throwing her hands up. "Jaune! You started without us? That's not fair! This was supposed to be a team project!"

Jaune didn't acknowledge her complaint, his focus unwavering as he walked further into the room. "Sit," he said, gesturing to the antique furniture that had been arranged neatly in the center of the space.

The teams exchanged glances before slowly taking their seats. Despite the age of the furniture, it was surprisingly sturdy, though its creaks and groans hinted at its history.

Jaune remained standing, his posture tall and commanding as he looked at the group.

Ruby fidgeted in her seat, her eyes darting nervously toward Yang, whose concerned expression hadn't softened. Weiss sat stiffly, her hands clasped tightly in her lap as she avoided Ruby's gaze entirely.

The weight of the moment pressed down on them all as they waited for Jaune to speak.

Jaune stood silently at the head of the room, his piercing blue eyes scanning the gathered teams. The weight of their gazes, filled with curiosity, unease, and tension, made it clear that everyone was waiting for him to speak.

He took a quiet breath, letting the stillness linger for a moment before he began.

"This," Jaune said, his voice calm and steady, "is our first emergency meeting."

The words carried a sense of gravity, drawing everyone's attention. Even Yang, who had been slouching slightly, straightened up at his tone.

"From this point forward," Jaune continued, his hands resting on the back of a chair in front of him, "whenever there are issues or conflicts that could affect the cohesion of either team, we'll meet here to discuss them. Together."

He let his eyes sweep across the room, ensuring everyone was following.

"These meetings aren't about forcing decisions or enforcing views," Jaune added, his voice firm but even. "They're about providing support. We're here to help each other resolve issues—not make them worse."

The group exchanged glances, a mix of curiosity and quiet understanding passing through them.

"Is that clear?" Jaune asked.

There was a chorus of quiet nods and murmurs of agreement.

Satisfied, Jaune straightened and continued. "Good. Then let's address the issue at hand." He paused, his gaze flicking briefly toward Weiss, who sat rigidly in her chair, before glancing at Ruby, whose silver eyes were fixed nervously on the floor.

"Weiss brought up a significant concern," Jaune said, his voice steady. "One that could impact all of us moving forward: the qualifications of our leaders."

Yang's hand shot up as she leaned forward, her frustration evident. "Hold on—"

Jaune raised a hand, his calm but commanding gesture cutting her off mid-sentence.

"Yang," he said simply, his voice low but firm.

Yang huffed and leaned back in her chair, her arms crossed, though her narrowed eyes remained locked on Jaune.

He continued. "Weiss is right," he said, letting the words settle in the room. "Ruby isn't leadership material."

Ruby's head snapped up, her silver eyes wide with shock. Yang's frustration flared again, her mouth opening to protest, but Jaune raised his hand once more, silencing her before she could speak.

Jaune's expression didn't waver, his voice even as he added, "But I'm not any better."

The room fell into stunned silence.

All eyes turned to him, disbelief and confusion etched onto their faces. Ruby looked at him like he had just said something incomprehensible, her mouth slightly open in shock.

Pyrrha leaned forward slightly, her emerald eyes searching his face for an explanation. Ren tilted his head, his expression unreadable but curious. Nora's usual energy was absent, replaced by wide-eyed silence.

Yang, who had been ready to argue only seconds ago, stared at Jaune in open disbelief. "What?"

Weiss's lips parted, but for once, she seemed at a loss for words.

Ruby finally found her voice, though it trembled slightly. "Why... why would you say that?"

Jaune let the silence linger for a moment, meeting each of their gazes before finally answering.

Jaune let the silence hang for a moment longer, the weight of his words settling over the room. Then, he turned his gaze toward Weiss and Ruby, addressing them directly.

"I have a question for both of you," he said evenly, his tone calm but firm. "What is Beacon?"

Weiss was the first to respond, her voice crisp and confident. "Beacon is a premier Huntsman academy, meant to train the next generation of Huntsmen and Huntresses to protect humanity from the Grimm."

Jaune nodded at her answer before turning to Ruby.

Ruby hesitated, her silver eyes flickering nervously between Jaune and Weiss. Then, she straightened up slightly and answered, "It's where we're trained to kill Grimm and work as a team."

Jaune's eyes softened ever so slightly as he nodded again. "You're both correct," he said, his voice low and measured. "But you're also missing the point."

The room grew still as everyone exchanged confused glances.

Weiss furrowed her brow. "Missing the point? What else is there?"

Jaune's gaze locked onto her. "Weiss, in the outside world, in the real world beyond these walls, you're right—I'm vastly under qualified to lead a team. And Ruby?" He turned toward her. "So are you."

Ruby flinched slightly at his words, the sting of his honesty leaving her silent.

Weiss, however, narrowed her eyes, her confusion evident. "Then why," she asked sharply, "if you agree with me, do you still think Ozpin was correct? Why do you believe Ruby and you should lead?"

Jaune didn't answer immediately. He let the question linger in the air, his calm expression unwavering as he scanned the room, watching as the group processed the weight of Weiss's words.

It was Pyrrha who broke the silence, her voice soft but filled with quiet realization. "Because..." she began, her green eyes widening slightly as the truth dawned on her. "Beacon is a school."

The room fell into a profound silence as the weight of her words struck everyone. Weiss's eyes widened in surprise, and Ruby's expression shifted from confusion to understanding. Even Yang and Blake, who had been mostly silent, looked thoughtful as the realization sank in.

Jaune nodded at Pyrrha, his expression almost approving. Then, he turned back to Weiss and Ruby, his tone calm but pointed. "Beacon is a place to grow, to learn. Ozpin didn't choose us to be leaders because we were already perfect candidates. He chose us to become leaders."

Weiss stared at him, her earlier confidence shaken. "What are you saying?"

Jaune let his gaze sweep across the room, ensuring everyone was listening. "I'm saying that Ozpin took Weiss, an exceptional leader candidate, and Pyrrha, an exceptional fighter—two people who would have been the most logical choices to lead their teams—and made them followers instead."

Pyrrha's eyes widened at his words, but she said nothing, her hands folding in her lap as she processed what he was saying.

"And then," Jaune continued, his tone steady, "he took Ruby, the socially awkward but incredibly happy and positive follower, and gave her a team to lead."

Ruby's breath caught, her silver eyes locked on Jaune as the meaning of his words began to sink in.

"And me?" Jaune's voice dropped slightly, his calm exterior unwavering. "The Lone Wolf who relied on no one but himself—he gave me a team to look after."

The room grew heavier with each word, the full weight of what Jaune was saying settling on everyone's shoulders.

"Why?" Jaune asked rhetorically, his gaze shifting back to Weiss. "Because his goal isn't to put perfect leaders in place right now. His goal is to build us up. To make us more than we are."

Weiss's expression softened as she absorbed his words, her earlier irritation giving way to thoughtful silence.

Jaune took a step back, his posture relaxed but his tone resolute. "Ozpin didn't make a mistake. He gave us what we needed—not what we thought we wanted. He didn't see who we were. He saw who we could become."

The room was silent once more, but this time, the tension had shifted into something deeper—an understanding that hadn't been there before.

Jaune stood there, letting his words sink in, his calm expression betraying none of the exhaustion he still carried.

Jaune let the silence linger, his words hanging heavy in the air. The others remained quiet, processing the truth he had laid before them. The room, once tense with conflict, now felt filled with potential—a sense that they could rise above their doubts and flaws if they worked together.

Breaking the silence, Jaune turned to Weiss. He walked over to her, surprising her further as he lowered himself into the seat next to her. Weiss blinked, startled, her earlier guarded posture slipping as she looked at him.

Jaune's calm blue eyes met hers, his voice steady but genuine. "Weiss," he began, "I acknowledge your training, your knowledge, and your experience. You've worked hard for this—harder than I ever have. That's why... Ruby and I will be relying on you and Pyrrha."

Weiss's lips parted in surprise, her icy demeanor momentarily melting. "Relying on me?"

Jaune nodded, his expression resolute. "Ruby and I... we're going to stumble. We're going to make mistakes. I know I will. And when those times come, I need you—and Pyrrha—to help us, to stand by our sides. To guide us when we lose our way."

Weiss's breath caught as his words washed over her, filling her with a mixture of pride and purpose. The tension in her shoulders eased, and for the first time since the argument began, her expression softened.

After a brief pause, Weiss raised a gloved hand and placed it on Jaune's shoulder. Her touch was firm, but the look in her eyes was one of inspiration. "You're better at this than you think, Jaune," she said quietly, her voice carrying a rare warmth. "If you're willing to work for it, I'll help you. Both of you."

Jaune gave her a small nod, the faintest hint of a smile tugging at his lips. "Thank you."

Ruby, who had been silent for most of the exchange, felt her heart swell. Jaune's words had struck something deep within her. She looked at him, her silver eyes shining with a mix of happiness and determination.

"I won't let you down, Jaune," Ruby said, her voice filled with quiet resolve. "I'll work harder. I'll be the leader you and everyone else can rely on."

Jaune turned his gaze to her, his expression softening. "I know you will."

The rest of the room seemed to shift with the energy of the moment. Pyrrha, sitting across the room, smiled gently, pride glimmering in her emerald eyes. Ren's calm demeanor remained, but there was a faint nod of approval in his subtle movements. Nora, ever energetic, grinned brightly, her earlier frustration forgotten as she felt inspired by Jaune's words.

Yang crossed her arms, her golden eyes glinting with a newfound respect for her teammate. "Alright, fearless leader," she teased lightly, though her tone carried genuine admiration. "If you're putting in the work, I guess we will, too."

Blake, as quiet as always, tilted her head slightly, her golden eyes thoughtful. There was no smile on her face, but there was something softer in her gaze—a quiet respect she hadn't shown before.

Weiss removed her hand from Jaune's shoulder, sitting up straighter in her seat. She looked at Ruby, her icy demeanor thawed, though a hint of her usual pride still lingered. "I'll help you, Ruby. But you need to take this seriously. Leadership is a responsibility, not a game."

Ruby nodded fervently, her determination unwavering. "I understand, Weiss. I'll do my best."

Jaune stood, his posture firm but relaxed as he glanced around the room. "We're not perfect," he said, his voice carrying weight. "But we can learn. We can grow. And together, we can be better than we are now."

The room seemed to hum with quiet energy as everyone looked at him, inspired by his words and resolve.

For the first time in a long while, they felt like a true team—a team that could face whatever challenges lay ahead.

Jaune let the room settle, the weight of the discussion finally lifting as he glanced around at his teammates and their newfound determination. A rare, faint smile tugged at his lips as he addressed them.

"Alright," he said, his voice calm but carrying a lighter tone. "Our meeting's over. You're all free to go—back to your dorms, to grab food, or just have some fun. But do it together."

At his words, the tension that had lingered in the room finally broke, replaced by warm smiles and a palpable sense of camaraderie.

Yang, unable to contain herself, sprang out of her chair and grabbed Ruby into a crushing bear hug.

"Together!" Yang declared with a grin, lifting Ruby off the ground.

"Yang! Put me down!" Ruby squeaked, flailing her arms as her sister spun her in circles. "I can't breathe!"

The room filled with laughter, and even Weiss allowed herself a small, amused smile at the sight.

As the others began to chat and laugh, Weiss turned to Jaune, her expression thoughtful. "And what about you?" she asked, her tone still carrying a trace of formality. "What are you planning on doing?"

Jaune glanced toward the still-dusty corners of the room, the faintest flicker of amusement in his eyes. "I was planning to clean," he admitted plainly. "At least until dinner."

Weiss arched a brow, a small smirk tugging at her lips. "Cleaning, hmm? Well, while you're doing that, I'll go look into what supplies we can get by the end of the week."

"Thanks," Jaune said simply, his calm tone genuine.

But Weiss wasn't done. She tilted her head slightly, her smirk growing. "And once I've handled that, I'll be coming back here to help clean."

Jaune quirked an eyebrow at her, his lips twitching into the faintest hint of a smile. "You don't have to."

"I know," Weiss replied, her tone confident. "But I will anyway."

Before Jaune could respond, Nora pumped her fist into the air. "Alright, everyone! Let's get changed!"

The group cheered in agreement, their energy infectious as they rushed off toward the rooms to grab casual clothes and supplies. Ruby was still grumbling about Yang's hug, but the laughter in her voice betrayed her good mood.

---

A little later, the two teams returned, dressed in casual attire and armed with cleaning supplies. The building buzzed with activity as they spread out, tackling the dust, cobwebs, and grime that still clung to the walls and floors.

Jaune worked quietly, wiping down furniture and moving heavier pieces into place. He kept an eye on the others, watching as they laughed and joked despite the hard work.

Ruby and Yang were teaming up to tackle the common room, their voices rising in playful banter. Ren and Nora worked efficiently in one corner, the latter occasionally humming a cheerful tune. Weiss and Pyrrha had taken charge of organizing the furniture, their movements precise and methodical. Blake, ever the quiet observer, dusted a nearby bookshelf with calm efficiency.

Inside Jaune's mind, the Worker of Secrets watched it all unfold through Jaune's eyes. He could feel Jaune's emotions—contentment, pride, and a quiet sense of belonging. The sight of the two teams working together, laughing together, brought a warmth that the Worker hadn't expected.

This is what you wanted, isn't it? the Worker mused, his voice echoing in their shared consciousness.

Jaune didn't respond directly, but his contentment was answer enough.

The Worker lingered on the feeling, the strange but undeniable sense of purpose that filled him. It wasn't the cold, calculated purpose of his own ambitions—it was something deeper, something tied to the people around him.

Perhaps this purpose... has meaning, the Worker thought quietly, his tone less analytical and more reflective.

And so, as the building slowly transformed under their combined efforts, the Worker remained silent, watching through Jaune's eyes as the bonds between the two teams grew stronger.

---

Outside the Task Force building, Ozpin and Glynda stood at a distance, watching the two teams work together. The warm afternoon sun bathed the scene, highlighting the dust and debris being carried out by the students as they laughed and chatted amongst themselves.

Ruby and Weiss emerged from the building, each carrying a small bag of trash.

"And whose idea was it to leave this many cobwebs in one building?" Ruby quipped, wrinkling her nose as she shook her free hand to get rid of a stray web.

Weiss rolled her eyes but smirked lightly. "Cobwebs don't grow overnight, Ruby. If you'd clean with a little more effort, maybe we'd make better progress."

Ruby shot her a playful grin. "Hey, I'm trying! You're just jealous of my speed-cleaning skills."

Weiss scoffed, but there was no real bite in her tone. "Speed-cleaning? More like speed-messing."

They shared a brief, lighthearted laugh before walking over to the large trash bins, their earlier tension now replaced with something resembling camaraderie.

Glynda crossed her arms, a small sigh of relief escaping her lips. "It seems Port's message about a potential conflict between the Schnee heiress and her leader resolved itself," she said, her tone calm but clearly pleased.

Ozpin, standing beside her with his cane resting lightly in his hand, observed the scene with quiet satisfaction. His gaze lingered on Jaune, who was standing near the entrance of the building.

Jaune wasn't laughing like the others, but there was a calmness about him as he oversaw their efforts. He directed Ren and Nora toward the next area to be cleaned and helped Blake carry out an older, heavier chair that was no longer salvageable.

Ozpin's lips curved into the faintest hint of a smile. "It looks like the Last Arc is starting to outshine his legacy," he murmured, his tone reflective.

At that moment, Jaune glanced toward the distance, his piercing blue eyes meeting Ozpin's. For a brief second, Jaune's expression remained unreadable. Then, he gave Ozpin a subtle nod of acknowledgement before turning back to assist Pyrrha with another task.

Glynda watched the interaction with mild curiosity before her own lips curved into a faint smile. "This year is already looking up," she said softly.

Ozpin hummed in agreement, his gaze lingering on the two teams as they worked together. "Indeed," he replied, his voice carrying a quiet optimism.

Without another word, the two teachers turned and walked away, their thoughts filled with curiosity and anticipation for what these two teams would bring to the future of Beacon—and beyond.