Tree and New Master
After his conversation with the headmaster, Jimmy headed back to the dorms, his mind tangled in confusion. Ozpin had lied—about his name, about something deeper—and Jimmy wasn't sure how to handle it. He decided to keep it to himself for now, at least until he could make sense of everything. His date with Yang had been incredible, grounding him somewhat, but his mind remained a whirlwind of thoughts. When he entered his room, he found Ranger and Jane preparing their gear.
"Fun night?" Jane asked, raising an eyebrow.
"Yeah, it was," Jimmy replied, offering a small smile. "When are we heading out?"
"You seem mission-focused," Ranger noted.
"The headmaster wanted to talk to me about missing classes," Jimmy admitted. "He's considering removing me because of the whole Grimm attraction issue."
"Did he say that, or are you assuming the worst?" Jane asked, folding her arms.
"I'm assuming the worst," Jimmy admitted. "There's a chance I might get a fixed schedule where I spend more time in the field dealing with Grimm."
"That would make sense, considering you're basically a pseudo-Huntsman already," Jane remarked. "Also, my mom is taking all of us to the village."
"Sounds good. I'll grab a shower first—when is she picking us up?"
"In about an hour," Ranger replied.
Jimmy gave a thumbs-up and disappeared into the bathroom.
RWBY's Dorm Room
Yang entered the room quietly, making her way toward the shower. Wearing only a towel, she began dressing, only for the room's light to flicker on.
"You did it, didn't you?" Blake's voice cut through the silence.
Yang smirked. "Yeah, for the first time, I really enjoyed it."
"We're supposed to be Huntresses in training, not messing around," Weiss huffed.
"Aww, is this because I have a boyfriend who loves me, or because I'm his soulmate?" Yang teased, laughing at Weiss's embarrassment.
Meanwhile, Ruby sat with headphones in, focused on her homework. Then, suddenly, it hit her—a thousand voices, whispering, echoing.
"Hello, Ruby. Wanna see something?"
The world around her shifted. She saw Grimm attacking the school, then turned to see Pyrrha—her heart pierced by a bullet.
"You did this, Ruby. You caused this."
Ruby screamed and fell out of bed.
"Ruby! Are you okay?" Weiss rushed to her side.
Ruby's hands trembled. "I... I don't know. I saw Pyrrha. She told me it was my fault. I don't remember why, but I was terrified."
"Did you connect with Jimmy's emotions?" Blake asked, concerned.
"No, I was just studying and listening to music," Ruby replied, shaking her head.
They exchanged worried glances before Yang changed the subject. "When are we heading out? Is JNPR coming too?"
"Yes, and Monica's coming as well," Blake confirmed. "I'm afraid of what we'll find when we get there."
They left their room to head to Team JNPR room. "I agree," Ruby muttered, still shaken. "That tree… something about it worries me. I mean, what is it?"
They knocked on the door, and Pyrrha quickly pulled Yang inside.
"Something's wrong with Jaune," Pyrrha whispered. "I don't know what's happening."
Yang touched Jaune's face and immediately recoiled. His skin was burning hot, yet it felt like hardened metal.
"What is this?" Yang frowned. "He's sweating, but his body feels like a shield."
"Strip him—see if he has a mark like mine," she ordered.
They hesitated but did as she instructed. Nothing. No mark.
Then, suddenly, Jaune's eyes fluttered open. He looked around at everyone before rubbing his temples. "Why am I naked? I was in a perfect world where everyone was safe and happy." He smiled before the realization dawned on him. "It was only a dream…"
"That's strange. Ruby had the exact opposite dream," Weiss pointed out.
Jaune frowned, struggling to remember. "I don't recall anything else."
They exchanged uneasy glances. Yang flicked Jaune's forehead, and his skin instantly softened.
"What was that for?" Jaune asked, rubbing his head.
"Just checking something," Yang muttered. 'If you can hear me,' she thought, 'my connection to Jimmy is stronger, but both Jaune and Ruby have been having strange dreams. If something is wrong, tell me.'
Silence. Nothing. Her mark flickered, but no response came.
"Hey, let's meet up with Team JJR. We leave in thirteen minutes," said Ren.
They left the room, heading to Team JJR's dorm with thoughts of confusion about what was going on. When they knocked on the door, Ranger answered. "Come in. Jimmy hasn't returned yet. He should be back soon."
"Do you know what happened with Jimmy and the headmaster?" asked Weiss.
"Yeah, two possible outcomes—either he gets removed from Beacon, or he gets a new class schedule to deal with his 'Grimm,'" said Jane.
"His Grimm?" asked Nora.
"Yeah, I just found out Jimmy attracts Grimm with his positive emotions," said Blake.
"Whoa, that's weird. Isn't it usually the opposite?" asked Jaune.
"Usually, yes, but with Jimmy, it's the opposite. The Grimm won't come near him if he's negative," Jane explained.
"You guys knew?" asked Yang.
"Of course we knew. We were told that he naturally attracts Grimm. The negative thing just made sense. Think about it—if his positive emotions attract them, then his negative emotions repel them," said Ranger.
Just then, Jimmy walked in, wearing only a towel. "Guys, I got soap in my eyes, I can't see, but I can feel Yang nearby, so I should probably get dressed before she gets here," he said.
"Sure, we'll tell you," said Jane, putting a finger to her lips and motioning for everyone to stay quiet.
"Thanks, lifesaver," Jimmy said.
"I have to ask—how was your time with Yang?" asked Ranger.
"It was amazing. I can't believe I was able to pull it off. That hot air balloon trick really worked," said Jimmy.
"Yeah, I guess your dreams really came in handy," said Jane, smiling. "What about her body? I bet you explored it."
"That's private," said Jimmy.
"Oh, come on, tell me. You can kiss and tell," Jane teased. She looked at Yang, who was blushing furiously but didn't stop her.
"Are you testing me or something?" Jimmy asked.
"Nope, just curious," Jane grinned.
"My eyes, they won't stop burning," Jimmy groaned. Then his towel slipped, exposing everything.
"Damn," said Nora.
Jimmy reacted immediately, rubbing his eyes while barely seeing the blurred figures around him. Realizing what had happened, he quickly grabbed his towel to cover himself. "Jane, I'm really calm right now, but I will get revenge. Who all is here?" His eyes remained shut as he grabbed clothes and retreated into the bathroom.
"I know, right?" Yang smirked.
Ruby, meanwhile, just gawked, blushing and frozen in place.
"So, Ranger and Jane, why did you do that?" asked Jaune.
"Jane's idea," said Ranger.
"See, Jimmy always takes the hottest showers for at least thirty minutes. I just wanted to see if he'd get soap in his eyes. He's very clumsy. I also wanted to test if he kisses and tells," said Jane.
"He's quite the gentleman. You also noticed, huh, Ruby?" Yang nudged her sister.
Ruby jolted upright. "I—I wasn't staring at his… um…" she mumbled, turning red and curling into a fetal position.
Jimmy came out of the bathroom, fully dressed. "Okay, Jane, you win. But we have five minutes before we meet up with Aunty. Where is she picking us up?"
"The front of the school. Let's head out," said Jane.
Everyone left the dorms, heading toward the entrance just as the sun was beginning to rise. They were excited but apprehensive. Monica was waiting with a bulkhead transport.
"You guys ready to see our village?" Monica asked in a somber tone. "Jimmy, Jane, Ranger—are you sure? You can still back out. It's… not a good sight."
"I'm sure. I was the one who burned it down, and I need to return to face my past," said Jimmy. The rest of the team nodded in agreement.
Monica sighed. "And you eight? Are you sure about this?"
"Yes. I want to see where it all started," said Ruby.
"I understand. Maybe the tree can help us figure out the mystery of your power," said Monica.
They boarded the bulkhead. "It should take about three hours to get there, so rest up. Also, Jimmy, I need to talk to you."
Jimmy followed Monica into a private room.
"I'm sorry to bring this up, but it's about the headmaster," Monica said.
"I understand. I told him about the Grimm problem," said Jimmy.
"I see, but I also need to ask—did he lie to you?" Monica asked, watching him carefully.
"Yes, but it was strange," Jimmy admitted.
"What was the lie?" Monica pressed.
"His name," Jimmy said.
Monica paused. "How is that possible? Did he tell you his real name?"
"Ozma," Jimmy answered. "I was told not to tell anyone, but something is wrong. Plus, my power, the beasts, my dreams… everything is confusing me. I don't understand it."
Monica placed a hand on his shoulder. "Don't worry. I'm here. But when things get bad, come to me and your team." She hugged Jimmy, helping him relax. "For now, it's time to face our past. Maybe you'll get some answers today, but please, don't take it all on alone."
Jimmy stepped out as Monica returned to the cockpit, lost in thought.
His power isn't like anything in this world.
Ozma… who is he, really?
The strange marks Jimmy can use on people… His aura of many colors… His semblance awakening the elements… Only the Maidens should be able to do that.
Then there's his birth… My memories are foggy. And the spirit that visited Ruby and the others… Why is it connected to the tree that protects the village from Grimm?
And what did Raven mean by 'The Endless War'?
Her mind raced, but then she shook her head. "Never mind. It's time to stop thinking."
Her scroll buzzed. A message from Ozpin.
Meeting after the trip. Discussion about Jimmy and his involvement with the Grimm.
Monica groaned. "Great… This can't be good."
The bulkhead began its descent. When it landed, everyone stood, waiting for the doors to open. Monica stepped forward, giving them one final warning.
"I'm telling you now… It's not a pretty sight."
As they stepped out, they saw the remnants of the village. The grass had started to regrow, but there were still patches of burned earth. The destruction was evident.
Jimmy knelt where a scorched patch of grass remained. "Even after all these years, my flames left a scar." He touched the brown earth. "Mother… I'm sorry."
Ruby stepped forward. "This is where she died?"
Jimmy nodded solemnly. "I remember the screams, the fire, the Grimm everywhere. My mother told me to run to the tree. When I got there, the Grimm wouldn't come near. That's when I saw my sister. She was wearing a golden dress… she had my father's hair, my mother's face. She knew that day was the day my mother would die. And I wonder—did she know I would be the one to end her life?"
Tears welled in his eyes. His aura flickered between two colors—light and dark. Ruby and Jaune both staggered. Ruby felt an overwhelming power, a sense of endless possibility. Jaune, on the other hand, felt crushed by its weight, as if it demanded something from him.
Then, a little girl appeared, only visible to Jimmy.
"I'm sorry, but it's time. Please come."
She vanished, and Jimmy regained his composure. "Let's go to the tree."
The Guardian Tree
As they reached the Guardian tree, Jimmy hesitated before stepping forward. Ranger and Jane followed behind him, stopping precisely ten feet away. The others tried to follow, but Jane raised a hand. "Stay back. Close your eyes."
Confused, they obeyed.
And then they felt it.
The air changed. They could feel the tree's presence, its pulse. When Jimmy finally touches it, circling the tree he connected is arua with it. With his hand feeling each piece of bark. When he finished the connection closed off everone back into reality.
"What was that?" Weiss gasped. "I felt… peace."
"It's the tree," Jimmy said, sitting down and taking an apple from its roots. "It lets me connect with everything—nature, people, even myself. Did you feel it?"
They all nodded.
"I don't understand," Blake murmured. "Is this tree truly a guardian?"
Jimmy smiled softly. "I think it is."
I felt it too, but why?" asked Nora.
"This calm... it's like my semblance," said Ren.
"I felt this once before when I came here after the burning," said Monica.
Pyrrha looked at Blake as she sensed something clearly—she was a Faunus. She decided not to reveal it. The truth will come in time, she thought to herself.
"Let's relax," said Ruby. "Let's take the time to ourselves and forget our problems." As she spoke, she laid down, relaxing. The wind tickled her nose, as if appreciating her words.
"Hey Jane, Jimmy, let's race up the tree. Now that you have your semblance, let's see how fast you can go," Ranger smirked.
"Finally, we're all on even ground," said Jane.
Let the wind of the pack release. Jimmy's red sword turned into a rust-blue version.
"I'm ready," said Jimmy.
"You guys sure you wanna climb the tree?" asked Weiss.
"This tree... only we can get near it and climb. You guys are the first to be this close," said Ranger. Jimmy finished his apple and stomped on it near the base of the tree.
"Ranger is right, I could never get close to this tree before. This is the first time I've been near it and felt relaxed," said Monica.
This stunned everyone. This tree only allowed certain people around? It didn't make sense in their world—it had a purpose beyond their understanding. A giggle of a little girl echoed through the forest, and a sense of playfulness surrounded the group.
Jimmy used his wind to climb the tree, while Jane sprinted and leaped from branch to branch. Ranger, using his gravity semblance, ran straight up the trunk. It reminded them of their childhood. But this time, Jimmy reached the highest branch first, followed by Jane, then Ranger. They laughed before calming down, taking in the view. The burnt grass below bore a blackened scar where the village once stood. Jimmy gazed at it, remembering the first time he used the First Prayer.
He closed his eyes and breathed deeply. He felt the tree beneath him—soothing, grounding. He felt the release of the souls who had perished here, their warmth wrapping around him. For the first time in years, he felt peace.
"Hey, Jimmy. You okay? Or are you thinking about that day again?" asked Jane.
Jimmy smiled. "No. I remember the peace I brought to the people here."
"I never thanked you for saving my family," said Ranger solemnly.
Jimmy jumped down, embracing Ranger tightly. "I am so sorry about your family. I couldn't save them."
"I forgave you when you told me the truth. My father would have agreed with your decision," said Ranger.
Jane watched with a warm smile. Even warriors needed moments like these. Ranger needed to hear it, and Jimmy needed to be forgiven.
As they hopped down from the tree, everyone was laughing.
"And then Jimmy decided that since Jane was punching Ranger into a tree, he'd try to take the punch himself," Monica started to laugh. "Instead, he tripped, fumbled, and smacked his head right into the tree."
"Hey, Aunty! Why would you tell them that?!" Jimmy groaned, turning to run—only to trip on nothing, landing face-first in the dirt. His muffled "shut up" sent everyone into fits of laughter.
"So I guess when he's the most relaxed, he becomes the clumsiest. Trust me he starts to miss the wrong hole," Yang teased and snickers.
"Hey, I thought there was a 'no kiss and tell' rule!" said Jimmy.
"Girls have to give advice to each other," Yang smirked, making a kissy face.
"Don't make me make you submit again," Jimmy shot back.
"Ohh, I like it when you take charge," Yang teased.
"Hey, Jimmy, what kind of date do you have planned for me?" asked Ruby.
"I have a few ideas. It'll be soon, but first, we've got that field trip to Forever Fall. Maybe we should leave Nora behind," Jimmy smirked.
"Why?!" Nora exclaimed.
"Because you might eat all the syrup," Jimmy replied. Team JNPR burst into laughter while Team RWBY snickered.
"You guys are mean," pouted Nora.
"Hey, Mom, can you tell me about your original team?" asked Jane.
"Sure. My team was called KIMY. We specialized in investigation. I was the radar, able to track Grimm and people. Kimple Red was our ultimate defense—his semblance gave him extreme durability. He was our leader. Isabelle Lapis had hyper-sensitive hearing and was our intelligence gatherer. And then there was Yami Grey—he was funny. His semblance let him enhance his blade to cut through anything—rock, metal, you name it. He mastered it so well he could even release slash attacks from a distance."
Monica's voice softened at the last name, a deep sadness flickering in her eyes.
"Wow, your team probably worked with Professor Oobleck," said Weiss.
"Actually, his team and mine used to compete to see who could gather more information," said Monica. "He was the one who comforted me when your father died."
Jane stiffened. "Who was my dad?"
"Yami Grey. He was also a Dog Faunus. I kept the Bones name because it was his wish," Monica admitted.
A silence settled as everyone processed that.
"I moved to this village after Professor Ozpin recommended it. This village was meant to raise children together, free from outside discrimination. I met your mothers, Ranger and Jimmy. We all gave birth around the same year. Jane was born first in May. Ranger in August. Jimmy was the youngest, born in December. I was there for all three of you."
"Well, you had to be there for Jane," Jaune joked.
Everyone laughed.
"Very funny, Jaune," Monica deadpanned.
"So this village was created to raise Faunus and humans together?" asked Blake.
"Yes. The Kingdom of Vale and Professor Ozpin started this program. This village, Kakariko, was part of it."
"What does that name mean?" asked Blake.
"I don't actually know. No idea who named it," Monica admitted.
They spent the rest of the day talking as if nothing was wrong in the world. The tree reflected their mood, its branches swaying gently, allowing small animals to roam freely. Blake, for once, felt a sense of silent acceptance about her Faunus heritage. Pyrrha felt like she could be a normal girl, not the invincible warrior. Ruby felt the warmth of family, like when she baked cookies with her mother. Yang remembered sparring with her dad. Nora and Ren sat close, hands clasped, unnoticed by the others. Jaune, however, felt something different—a presence trying to connect with him. It wasn't the turtle. He would have to be careful moving forward.
As the day ended and they returned to the bullhead, a figure stood near the burnt village—a transparent child. She turned, waving, as if beckoning them to return one day. Then, she walked back to the place where her mother had died.
Hidden beneath the Guardian Tree, the girl whispered, "Brother has wonderful friends, Mother. I like Yang. And Ruby... she has so much potential. Maybe one day, he'll help me talk to you before I disappear."
A Grimm—no, something else—stood beside her. White instead of black, its mask marked with delicate blue lines and a heart-shaped symbol on its cheek.
"How much time do I have left?" she asked.
The creature tilted its head.
"I wonder if I should tell the world about you," she mused.
The Grimm shook its head.
She giggled. "Yeah, you're right. Let's go back to the tree."
The strange Grimm walked beside her, fading into the shadows of the past.
Back at BeaconEveryone walked back to their rooms, feeling lighter after the trip. The day had helped them feel like themselves again. The most noticeable change was in Nora and Ren—their emotions were beginning to align more than ever.
Before they entered their dorm, Nora suddenly grabbed Ren's hand.
"I need to borrow Ren for a bit, Jaune. So, uh… don't wait up," she said with a cheeky grin.
Jaune raised an eyebrow but simply shrugged as they walked into the room, leaving Nora and Ren outside in the hallway.
"Nora—" Before Ren could finish his sentence, she lunged at him, pressing her lips against his in a kiss filled with all the emotions she had bottled up for years. Her eyes fluttered shut as she poured her heart into it.
Ren, stunned for only a moment, instinctively wrapped his arms around her waist, pulling her closer, knowing she needed to feel safe in this moment. When they finally parted, a single strand of saliva connected them before breaking.
"I see you couldn't wait any longer," Ren murmured with a small smile.
Instead of responding, Nora rested her head against his chest, listening to the steady, calm rhythm of his heartbeat. Hers, in contrast, was racing. Anxiety, excitement, relief—it all pulsed through her.
Ren gently lifted her chin and pressed another kiss to her lips, softer this time. When he pulled away, his gaze was steady. "I am calm for you, Nora. Only you. You make my mind race like lightning, but you also keep me grounded. Please know this—I live because of you."
Nora's grip on his shirt tightened as she whispered, "I love you, Ren. I never want to be apart from you."
He pulled her into a tight embrace, and they stood there for a moment, just feeling each other's presence.
Finally, when Nora felt calm again, she stepped back and took his hand. Together, they walked into their dorm.
As soon as they entered, Jaune smirked while Pyrrha gave them a knowing smile. "So, I'm guessing you finally told him?" Pyrrha teased.
Nora's face turned beet red, and she immediately dove under her blanket, trying to hide her embarrassment.
"Please don't tease her, Pyrrha," Ren said, though there was a rare softness in his voice.
Pyrrha chuckled but relented, heading to her bed. Jaune followed suit.
Before Ren climbed into his bed, he turned toward Nora's cocoon of blankets. "I love you too," he said simply, then turned off the lights.
As Ren lay down, he smiled—a genuine, contented smile he hadn't worn in years. Maybe… just maybe, it was okay to be hers.
As sleep took him, memories of their childhood played in his dreams. He saw them as kids, playing in the front yard of Nora's mother's home. Even back then, he had been quiet, reserved. But it was always Nora who pulled him out of his shell, who made him smile. Even then, he had only ever smiled for her.
Monica's MeetingThe elevator doors opened with a quiet chime as Monica stepped onto the top floor of Beacon Tower. She wasn't surprised to see both Headmaster Ozpin and General Ironwood waiting for her.
"General, what brings you here?" she asked as she approached them.
Ironwood turned to face her, his expression unreadable. "You seem to know me, but I don't believe we've met."
"Monica. Monica Bones."
Ozpin took a sip of his coffee before speaking. "The General is here because I needed to discuss Jimmy. But he's not the only one involved."
Before Monica could respond, a strong scent of alcohol hit her. She turned her head slightly to see another familiar figure—Qrow Branwen, already halfway through a flask.
"Qrow Branwen," Monica acknowledged, narrowing her eyes. "Your sister left suddenly, didn't she?"
Qrow raised an eyebrow. "Ah, my dear twin. You've met Raven?"
"A few times."
Qrow turned to Ozpin. "How much does she know?"
"Enough about the Maidens and the Relics," Ozpin answered.
Ironwood's hand slammed onto the table. "Excuse me? She knows about that?"
Monica crossed her arms. "I have my theories, but that's why we're here, isn't it?"
Ozpin nodded. "This is about your third responsibility."
"Jimmy," Monica said knowingly. "I already figured. If him attracting Grimm is such a problem, then I'll handle it. His positive emotions are the cause, after all."
"I won't expel him, but him missing classes is an issue," Ozpin stated. "His heart is in the right place, but he needs to balance responsibility."
"Thank you, but he's only doing what he believes is right," Monica defended.
Ironwood looked unconvinced. "A boy with the ability to control flames, who attracts Grimm with positive emotions—this is dangerously close to the Maiden's power. And no boy should be able to wield it."
"This power of his… my sister has been watching him, too," Qrow added.
"You knew? And you didn't help us find him?" Ironwood snapped.
"I did," Qrow countered, swirling his flask. "And my sister told me some things, too. Jimmy…" He trailed off, his expression unreadable.
Ozpin exhaled slowly. "The flames that burned everything in their path. That's what worries me. General, how do Ruby's Silver Eyes factor into this?"
"We don't know yet," Ironwood admitted. He then turned to Monica. "Unless you'd like to share?"
Monica sighed. "I wish I knew more. But there is something that does concern me—something affecting both Ruby and Jaune."
Ozpin raised an eyebrow. "Go on."
Monica set down an old, worn book on the table. "Jimmy has six auras. Two of them are influencing Ruby and Jaune. A black aura is reaching for Ruby, and a bright white one is reaching for Jaune. It's as if they're fighting Jimmy for control."
Ozpin's face darkened. "Why tell us this now?"
"Because I'm worried about what it means," Monica admitted. "And there's this book."
Ironwood glanced at the worn pages. "What is it?"
"Everything I've observed about Jimmy. His aura, his abilities… things that scare me sometimes," Monica admitted. "At one point, I even wondered if he was a Grimm."
Qrow picked up the book and flipped through it. "I'll take over his training. Also, this information stays between us."
Ironwood slammed his fist onto the table. "Excuse me? I have a right to know—"
Ozpin raised a hand, cutting him off. "I believe Qrow is the best person for the job."
Ironwood exhaled sharply, clearly frustrated, but eventually nodded. "Fine. Keep me updated."
As both huntsmen left The general look at ozpin in confusion. "Don't you want to know more about the kid." asked the general."
"I do, but for once, I feel like I shouldn't. I want him to learn on his own first. Maybe then he'll open up to us," said Ozpin.
"A wild card is what you're creating. We already know this—it would be bad if he ends up like Raven," said the general.
"He won't. He must follow a path he believes is just. Besides, I can't interfere right now—he needs to find the person who stole a piece of his power," Ozpin replied.
The general's expression darkened as he began pacing, hesitating before asking his next question.
"Who? And… can he give his flames to others?"
Ozpin met his gaze. "Adam Taurus of the White Fang. And yes, he can transfer his power—but I believe it works similarly to the Maidens."
"What do you mean? Like the story of the wizard, who could only grant abilities to four girls and no more?" the general asked.
"Similar. From what I've been told, only Jimmy can reclaim the power once it's given. I have a theory—if he doesn't take it back, it might pass on to another," Ozpin said, his voice measured.
"So he's the wizard in this case," the general muttered, deep in thought.
"Maybe… but then there's the issue of six auras. Does he have six semblances, or does his aura alter the properties of his semblance?" Ozpin mused. "For now, all I can do is wait. When Jimmy is ready, I'll know."
Ozpin's expression remained neutral, betraying nothing. "I think that's enough for today, General. For now, enjoy Vale—unless there's something else you need?"
The general studied him before nodding. "Thank you. Keep me updated on the Flame Swordsman. If he becomes a threat, or if you uncover anything else… I need to know." With that, he turned and walked toward the exit.
Once the door closed, Ozpin let out a long sigh.
"May the gods be with us," he murmured. An even deeper sigh followed.
As Monica and Qrow left the office, Qrow smirked. "So, tell me more about the kid before I train him."
Monica sighed. "Alright. He has six auras—red for flames, light blue for wind. He can grant a mark per aura, and Adam Taurus already has the flame mark. Yang has the wind mark. He also has four beasts that regulate his emotions—each one representing different aspects of his power."
Qrow whistled. "That's… a lot."
"There's more," Monica continued. "The marks connect him emotionally to those he gives them to. His power is directly linked to emotions. He has to use specific emotions to activate different abilities."
Qrow's expression darkened. "Wait… what emotions does he need for the flames?"
"Anger, rage, and conviction."
Qrow exhaled. "Alright, I can handle that."
Monica hesitated. "…For the wind, it's a bit more complicated. Love is the major one. And… lust."
Qrow stopped in his tracks. "Oh, now I really wanna kill him."
Monica chuckled. "Please don't."
Qrow took another sip from his flask. "Fine. But I've got a few words for him when we meet."
Monica smirked. "Oh, I'm sure you do."
The Next MorningDoctor Oobleck was in the middle of class, passionately lecturing about the Great War, when he suddenly called on Jaune. As expected, Cardin wasted no time in throwing a few insults Jaune's way, earning a few chuckles from his teammates.
Before things could escalate, the classroom door swung open, and a familiar figure strode in, casual as ever.
"Mr. Branwen, how may I help you?" Oobleck asked, adjusting his glasses.
"I'm here for James," Qrow replied, waving a set of papers in his hand.
"Uncle Qrow!" Ruby's voice rang out as she used her semblance to zoom up and hug her uncle.
"Hey, Little Red," Qrow greeted with a chuckle, patting her head. "What's going on?"
"You tell me! Why do you need Jimmy?" she asked, eyes narrowed in curiosity.
"That's hush-hush," Qrow smirked, "but I need him. I'll be training him from now on."
"What? That dork is getting trained by a real Huntsman?" Cardin scoffed. "I know he's the so-called 'Flame Swordsman,' but shouldn't he be trained like the rest of us?"
Oobleck raised a brow. "Was this under the headmaster's orders?"
Qrow nodded. "Yep. Got his new schedule right here if you wanna check." He handed the papers over.
"I see," Oobleck muttered, scanning the document. "That makes a lot more sense… James, please come down and go with Mr. Branwen."
Jimmy got up, grabbing his things as he followed Qrow toward the exit.
"Wait, Uncle!" Yang called out.
Qrow turned with a knowing grin. "Yes, my sunny dragon?"
"Don't hurt him, please," she said, her voice softer than usual.
Ruby, standing beside her sister, crossed her arms. "Yeah, we know how you train, Uncle Qrow."
Qrow gave them a lazy wave. "I'm training him, not torturing him," he reassured with a smirk before heading out with Jimmy.
The First LessonQrow led Jimmy through the halls in silence, simply enjoying the pace. Jimmy, however, felt the weight of the situation settle on his shoulders.
Finally, Qrow pulled out a small book from his coat pocket and held it up. "Do you know what this is?"
Jimmy's eyes widened as he recognized it instantly. "That's Monica's journal."
"Not exactly." Qrow flipped through the pages. "It's more like her research—on you."
Jimmy stiffened. "Research?"
"She knew something was different about you from the start," Qrow explained. "So she recorded everything she observed about your aura when you were young. You know about her semblance, right?"
Jimmy clenched his fists. A part of him always suspected Monica knew more than she let on, but hearing it confirmed made his chest tighten. "Yeah… I know."
Qrow sighed. "Look, kid, you've been fighting like a pseudo-Huntsman for years. But I'm here to push you beyond that. You're gonna be better than you were before." As they walked out getting near a cliff hovering over the emerald forest.
Jimmy took a deep breath. "Alright. What's the first step?"
Qrow grinned. "Good answer. First lesson: swordplay. And no semblance."
Jimmy blinked. "Wait, what?"
"You heard me." Qrow smirked, cracking his neck. "No flames. No wind. Just you and your sword."
Before Jimmy "How did you know?, he suddenly tensed smiled then grew in excitement. Realising his mistake "Crap… I used conviction without thinking," he muttered, feeling the incoming presence of Grimm.
Qrow smirked. "I know. I did it on purpose."
Jimmy's eyes widened. "You—"
A chilling roar echoed from the treeline as three Grimm burst into view, their glowing red eyes locked onto them.
Qrow unsheathed his sword lazily. "No semblance. No fancy tricks. Just fight."
Jimmy swallowed hard but nodded, gripping his sword tightly. He had fought Grimm before—but never without using his semblance as a crutch.
The first Grimm lunged. Jimmy dodged to the side, slashing his blade across its flank. Sparks flew as his blade met its tough hide, but the creature barely staggered.
A second Grimm swiped at him from behind. Jimmy barely managed to block, but the force sent him skidding back. His arms trembled from the impact—he wasn't used to fighting without his enhanced strength.
The third Grimm rushed in, jaws wide. Jimmy tried to pivot and strike, but his movements were slower, clumsier than usual. The Grimm caught his side with its claws, sending pain lancing through his ribs.
"Damn it—!"
He gritted his teeth, ignoring the pain. With a desperate swing, he drove his sword into the first Grimm's neck, finally killing it.
Before he could catch his breath, the second Grimm barreled into him, slamming him against a tree. The air was forced from his lungs, and he dropped his sword.
"Too slow," Qrow muttered.
The third Grimm closed in, claws raised for a finishing blow.
At the last second, Qrow moved.
With one fluid motion, he cut through both remaining Grimm, their bodies dissolving into black mist before they even hit the ground.
Jimmy slumped against the tree, panting. Blood dripped from a fresh wound on his arm.
Qrow sheathed his weapon and walked over, shaking his head. "Do you get it now?"
Jimmy clenched his fists. He hated this. Hated feeling weakness. As his childhood reminded him those fight he lost.
"This is why you can't just rely on raw power," Qrow continued. "Your semblance is strong, yeah—but the moment you lose control or can't use it, you're dead."
Jimmy gritted his teeth, frustration burning in his chest.
"From now on," Qrow said, crossing his arms, "you're gonna train with just your sword. No semblance. No awakening powers. Just technique."
Jimmy took a shaky breath and forced himself to stand. His ribs ached. His pride stung even worse.
But he nodded.
"Fine," he said, his voice firm. "Let's do this."
Qrow grinned. "Good. Now pick up your sword."
The training had just begun.
Next Class – Professor GoodwitchThe next class began with Professor Goodwitch standing at the front of the room.
"Good afternoon, students." She glanced around, scanning for the student she had selected for the first match. However, her favorite student was missing. "Where is Jimmy?"
"He's currently training with Qrow Branwen," Cardin said in a mocking tone.
Her eye twitched before Ruby quickly spoke up. "He has a new schedule and requires extra training from my uncle. The headmaster authorized it."
Professor Goodwitch sighed. "Alright then, we'll need to adjust the first match." She turned her gaze to Yang. "Yang versus Pyrrha will be our first match today."
Both girls smirked as they stepped forward, eager for this fight. Pyrrha had wanted to face Yang for a while, especially since she knew Yang's semblance had changed. Now, it was time to see what she was truly capable of.
"Yang, you better not hold back. Use your semblance against me—if you know what's good for you," Pyrrha said.
Yang grinned. Then, with a burst of energy, she activated her semblance.
Her hair ignited into blue flames, and her eyes turned sky blue.
This caught Professor Goodwitch's attention. She quickly pulled up Yang's profile, scanning the description of her semblance. Something was off. The database recorded her flames as red and her eyes as a deep crimson, but now… it was completely different. Then, for a brief moment, she noticed a faint, glowing light-blue mark on Yang's body.
Is this the mark's power? she thought. When did Yang receive it? Does she have control over the flames now?
But no… something was different. The flames weren't as hot as they should be, and the color was entirely off. Maybe it's just a reflection of power, not the power itself?
Then, she felt it—a breeze.
"Begin!" she announced, throwing her hand down.
As Yang lunged, the wind shifted with her.
That's not just flame… that's the power of the wind. Is this because of Jimmy?
Yang launched a punch at Pyrrha, who blocked and deflected the attack. However, as Yang swung again, an invisible force struck Pyrrha, pushing her back and damaging her aura. It was the first time she had been hit by an unseen attack.
She grinned. This is on a whole new level of power.
Pyrrha quickly regained her footing and retaliated. Her strikes were fierce, piercing through Yang's wind barrier. She kept up the pressure, forcing Yang to her limit.
Yang responded by firing a barrage of bullets toward Pyrrha, but the wind distorted their trajectory, causing most to miss or be deflected.
Again, Yang's wind-assisted punches broke through Pyrrha's defenses, pushing her aura dangerously close to red—but not quite.
Pyrrha, however, wasn't finished. She unleashed a relentless combination of attacks, striking Yang multiple times with extreme precision. Yang was forced backward, struggling to maintain her defense.
Then, with a final decisive blow, Pyrrha ended the fight.
"Winner: Pyrrha," Professor Goodwitch declared. She then turned to Yang. "You did well pushing Pyrrha back, but you still need more training with your semblance. Work harder to control it."
Yang, still catching her breath, nodded.
"Next match will begin shortly," Professor Goodwitch continued.
With Qrow and JimmyThe training was brutal, but Qrow had quickly noticed Jimmy's strategic mindset. His ability to analyze weaknesses was exceptional, and his semblance made him a force to be reckoned with. However, there was one glaring issue—his combat fundamentals.
His semblance makes him a certified huntsman, Qrow thought. But his skill level? He's barely above a novice. Now I see why he needs this training.
"You're good—for a novice," Qrow finally said after an intense sparring session. "Now I understand why you need this training. Your semblance is too powerful for you."
Jimmy was breathing hard, hands on his knees. "Whaat… do… you… mean?" he managed between breaths.
Qrow smirked. "See, you've got great instincts when it comes to fighting Grimm. You analyze weaknesses, you hit where it counts. But your technique? Your parrying, your footwork, your overall combat skill—they all need work. Right now, your semblance is filling in those gaps."
Jimmy frowned. "So… you're saying I need to improve my swordsmanship because I rely on my semblance too much?"
"Exactly," Qrow said. "That's why the headmaster sent you to me. I trained Ruby in the ways of the scythe, but you? You'll master the longsword. Your power is in it. If you master the art, you can master the power deep within you."
Jimmy stood up straight, rolling his shoulders. "If I master this art… will I become the strongest version of myself?"
Qrow crossed his arms. "It's something most people don't bother with. A semblance as strong as yours? People would just lean on it. But if you want to protect my nieces, you have to get stronger without it."
Jimmy nodded, determination burning in his eyes. "I understand. One more hour."
Qrow grinned. "That's the spirit."
And with that, the battle training resumed—Jimmy, though exhausted, pushing himself beyond his limits as Qrow continued his relentless onslaught.