ã€ŠRWBY: timeline J9807ã€‹


 Jaunes Revenge

    Author''s Note

    As mentioned in the description, I''d like to invite you to explore the history of the world of Remnant through the perspective of Jaune Arc¡ªthough with many significant changes. I hope you''ll enjoy the story!

    If you have any feedback or thoughts, please feel free to leave a comment or rating. Also, I apologize for any grammatical errors; English isn''t my primary language, but I''m doing my best to improve. Thank you for your understanding, and I wish you a pleasant reading experience.

    The sounds of fighting still echoed through the docks, accompanied by flickering firelight against the smoke-filled sky. This was the chaos left behind by the White Fang''s final act¡ªa desperate, "heroic" surge meant to serve as the grand finale of their crusade against humanity. In truth, it was nothing more than a smokescreen, a sacrificial ploy to buy time for their leaders to escape. Hundreds left behind to cover the retreat of a select few.

    Once, such cruelty would have enraged me. Now? I felt nothing. Well, almost nothing¡ªa cold satisfaction at what was coming next.

    The radar led me to the warehouse. I opened the gate, stepped inside, and closed it behind me, pushing a nearby bookcase to block the way. The interior was dimly lit, so I switched on my flashlight and pressed forward.

    Blood trails streaked the floor, leading toward the back of the warehouse.

    No. You don''t get to die here. Not until I get my answers.

    At the far end, slumped against the wall in soaked, grimy clothes, was my target: Roman Torchwick. A bandage covered his arm, the blood soaking through it. His face was pale, exhaustion etched into every line, but his sharp, alert eyes told me he wasn''t finished yet.

    I moved toward him slowly, carefully. Even now, he was dangerous. When he noticed me, surprise and fear flickered across his face before settling into a mocking grin.

    "Well, well. Hello, Jaune." He grinned. "You''re looking good. Changed your diet? Tell me, my friend, how''s Pyrrha?"

    I kept my steps deliberate and calm, drawing my sword as I closed the distance. His words didn''t matter. All that mattered was what he knew. Still, I decided to humor him.

    "Doing just as well as Neo," I said, inspecting my blade''s edge.

    The grin vanished. Disbelief and anger replaced it.This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road. If you spot it on Amazon, please report it.

    "You filthy liar!" he spat. "I know Neo escaped! She''s far away, safe, and sitting on a mountain of Dust!"

    I shook my head and took another step forward. "Roman, we''ve got the entire area secured. Do you really think she slipped through?"

    A bitter laugh escaped his lips, echoing in the dim space.

    "Secured? Is that what you call this mess? Fires raging, civilians dying, chaos everywhere. Please, don''t make me laugh."

    I crouched in front of him, locking eyes. He no longer had his cane, his Dust tanks, or even his signature hat. His hair was disheveled, streaked with dried blood, and the makeshift tourniquet on his arm looked ready to unravel.

    "Does that even matter to you now?" I asked, voice low. "Just tell me what I want to know, and we can end this."

    Torchwick leaned back, his lips curling into a smirk. "Why don''t you tell me how you found me so fast? Huh? I thought I''d get at least a little rest in this cozy dump, but no. Here you are, my shadow."

    He was stalling. Maybe Neo had escaped. But the rest of his assumptions? All wrong. The area was locked down. No one was coming for him.

    I sighed, pointing at his arm. "The arrow that hit you¡ªit had a transmitter. You didn''t just need to snap it off. You needed to remove it."

    Roman let out a resigned breath, nodding. "No medic around. Figures. So, what now? Are you dragging me out of here? Locking me in some cell, hoping for intel? Or are you¡ªAHHHH!"

    I''d heard enough. My blade pierced his knee in one swift motion. He screamed, thrashing as I twisted the sword, watching the pain seize him.

    "A cell? A trial?" I leaned closer. "No, Roman. Your road ends here. The only thing you control now is how long this conversation takes. And don''t pretend you''re loyal. We both know she used you and left you to rot. So do yourself a favor¡ªtell me where Cinder is."

    His face turned even paler, and for a moment, I thought he might pass out. I twisted the blade again, eliciting another agonized howl. His lips moved, but his voice was too faint. Slowly, he lifted his head, locking eyes with me.

    "Forgive her," he rasped. "Spare Neo."

    I blinked. Even now, he had the gall to make demands. Neo owed us less than he did, but forgiveness? Not a chance.

    "No, Roman. Not an option."

    Blood dripped from his mouth as he spat onto the floor. "Then... at least a fair trial. A fair punishment."

    That, I could accept. Fair punishment. Yes, I liked the sound of that.

    "You have my word," I said. "Neo will face justice."

    Torchwick''s laugh came out hoarse and weak. "Fine... Cinder has a meeting. Mistral, two weeks. The Spiders. Lost Horseshoe Bar. She won''t be alone. And tell her for me¡ªcompared to Winter, she''s pathetic."

    His laugh dissolved into coughing, and I took a single, measured breath before driving my sword into his heart. His body slumped, the life leaving his eyes.

    It was done. One step closer to my goal.

    As I walked out of the warehouse, the sounds of battle faded. The fires seemed to die down, and distant thunder rumbled. A storm was coming.

    Note from the Author:

    The following chapters take place long before these events. They focus on Jaune''s early career as a Huntsman¡ªhis training and school life.

 Thoughts

    My name is Jaune Arc, and I have to confess¡ªI''ve gotten myself into quite a mess. Tomorrow, I have to report to the collection point, where I''ll be transported by plane to Beacon Academy.

    Me! A guy whose only combat experience comes from stories about my ancestors.

    I got up from bed, unable to sleep. Staring idly at the ceiling wasn''t helping, so I walked over to the shelf where the family heirloom lay: a beautiful sword that belonged to my great-great-grandfather during the Great War.

    I picked it up, holding it in my hand, marveling at its lightness and how perfectly it fit my grip. I gave it a few experimental swings before speaking aloud, almost without thinking:Stolen content warning: this content belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences.

    "Well, buddy, we''re going to be spending a lot of time together. Here''s hoping for a fruitful cooperation."

    Talking to a sword? Gosh, I must really be losing it.

    I stared at the blade for a moment longer before putting it back in its place. My bag was sitting on the floor next to the bed. If I couldn''t sleep anyway, I might as well double-check that I''d packed everything I needed.

    After going through my luggage twice, drinking two glasses of milk, and brushing my teeth again, I finally decided to give sleep another try.

    The last thought that went through my mind as I drifted off was something my relatives always said:

    If you fail at Beacon, it''s not a big deal. After all, there are plenty of other things you can do.

    I chuckled softly to myself.

    "Heh, we''ll see."

 Travel to Beacon

    Here it was the transport ship that would take me to my new life at Beacon Academy.

    Two other passengers waited nearby. They headed toward the luggage compartment, so I followed, packing my bags and all the equipment I had brought. Once finished, I made my way to the entrance of the ship.

    As I stepped inside, waves of stress and nervousness hit me like a tidal wave. Maybe a little fear too. Cold sweat clung to my skin, and my thoughts raced. Would there already be an inspection on the ship? A presence check?

    Sure, my "slight modifications" to the documents I submitted had gotten me through the pre-selection process, but you could never be too cautious.

    The first five minutes of the journey were uneventful. During takeoff, my knees shook a little. I eventually made my way to a window, trying to distract myself with the view. For a moment, the sight was stunning¡ªuntil my stomach decided it had other plans.

    I barely made it to the bathroom in time.

    When I returned to the main cabin, I noticed groups forming all around the ship. Each cluster was chatting, laughing, or inspecting their weapons. That''s when I realized something.

    I was the only one without a weapon.This story is posted elsewhere by the author. Help them out by reading the authentic version.

    Everyone else carried their gear onboard. I, on the other hand, had packed mine with my luggage.

    "Beautiful," I muttered under my breath, feeling my nerves spike again.

    I glanced around, nervously trying to find a group to join before anyone noticed how out of place I looked. Just as I was working up the courage to approach someone, a tall, well-built boy with brown hair stepped toward me.

    In his hand, he held a massive mace that looked more like a battering ram than a weapon.

    "What''s up, blondie? Where are we headed?"

    The question caught me off guard. It seemed strange since we all knew we were going to Beacon. I didn''t get on the wrong ship... did I?

    Before I could answer, the guy kept talking.

    "Don''t tell me you''re actually going to Beacon!"

    "Well, yeah, I kinda¡ª"

    "A skinny guy like you wants to be a Hunter?!" he cut me off. "You don''t even have a weapon! What are you planning to fight Grimm with spit and insults?"

    I could feel my face turning red as the words hit me. I stepped back, unsure of what to say, but he wasn''t done yet.

    "Or maybe," he sneered, "you''re so good you don''t even need a weapon, huh? Let''s find out!"

    Before I could react, he shoved me with one hand. He was strong, strong enough to send me sprawling to the ground.

    "Ha! Nope, you''re just a loser!" he laughed. "Go back home to mommy and leave fighting Grimm to someone like me."

    He walked off, still laughing, spinning his massive mace in one hand. When he reached the group he''d come from, he pointed a finger at me. Moments later, their laughter joined his, echoing through the cabin.

    I clenched my fists, humiliated, but there wasn''t much I could do. For the rest of the trip, I stayed by myself, fighting my queasy stomach and keeping my distance from everyone.

 Meeting Rose

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    The journey had finally come to an end. I was one of the last to disembark from the ship. Thankfully, the nausea had subsided, allowing me to retrieve my luggage without much trouble.

    The first thing I did was arm myself with my sword and folding shield. I wasn¡¯t about to be the only person walking around unarmed again. Honestly, a Hunter should always keep their weapon close¡ªwhat had I been thinking, packing mine with the rest of my luggage in the hold? Never again.

    I moved along with the crowd, assuming we were heading toward some kind of main administration building. Exiting the hangar and following the group through a few turns, we eventually reached a spacious square that led to the academy¡¯s main entrance.

    The path ahead was impressively wide, large enough for transport vehicles to pass each other with ease. On either side, lush parks sprawled out with well-kept lawns, vibrant trees, and neatly trimmed bushes. A few fountains, scattered seemingly at random, added a touch of elegance while still blending beautifully with the landscape.This story has been stolen from Royal Road. If you read it on Amazon, please report it

    And then there was Beacon itself¡ªdazzling, pristine, and majestic. Its gleaming white facade shone as if it were brand new, radiating an aura of strength and hope.

    For a moment, I simply stood there, taking it all in.

    I couldn¡¯t take my eyes off the place where I would spend the next few years of my life. I admired the columns, buildings, and above all, the towers with the communication dishes that stood proudly like a monument, rising high into the sky. They seemed as if they might catch on the clouds.

    Unfortunately for me, this whole delight engrossed me so much that, by the time I looked back, I was standing completely alone on the pavement. I spotted several groups of people who seemed vaguely familiar, but each of them was headed in a different direction.

    ¡°Well, I¡¯m left alone, and I have no idea where to go. That¡¯s just great.¡±

    I was about to move forward when my attention was caught by a girl lying on the ground. I decided to approach her and help her up.

    The moment I reached out my hand and helped her to her feet, I took a closer look at her. She was dressed almost entirely in black with subtle red accents. A bright red scarf hung loosely around her neck. Her silver eyes caught me off guard¡ªI had never seen anyone with such striking eyes before. Her clothes felt strange, almost... burnt?

    When we were both standing, the girl gave me a small, slightly awkward smile and then asked:

    ¡°Was it you? The one running to the bathroom so many times on the ship?¡±

    What a way to start.

 Conversation

    Jaune: Mr. Puk?! Really?

    Ruby: Hey, sorry about that. It was the first thing that came to mind. Anyway, it was mainly my sister''s idea.

    Jaune: Don''t blame your sister. That''s too easy and kind of a cheap way out. Trust me, I know something about that.

    The girl next to me was named Ruby Rose. She was also starting her education to become a hunter, with one significant difference¡ªshe was two years younger than me.

    Jaune: You''re lucky I don''t get offended so easily.

    Ruby: Yeah, that''s one of your many advantages, isn''t it?

    Jaune: Of course, right after being good-looking, articulate, intelligent, resourceful, and obviously humble.

    We both burst out laughing. Ruby seemed like a nice girl to me maybe because she was the first person I could talk to normally since I started my journey as a hunter.

    But I couldn''t forget how incredible she was. She''d begun studying at Beacon two years early after being personally invited by Headmaster Ozpin himself¡ªbecause she''d taken down a criminal group all on her own. Just... wow.

    Ruby: Hey, Jaune.

    Her voice snapped me out of my thoughts.

    Jaune: Yes?

    Ruby: Will you show it to me again?

    Jaune: Again? Wouldn''t this be the third time?

    Ruby: Pretty please?

    Jaune: Ehh... Sure, no problem.

    I handed her my weapon, this time without the shield. She seemed particularly interested in the sword.

    She ran her fingers along the blade, swung it a few times, and then did something that left me speechless.

    She started spinning the sword with one hand¡ªand the movement only got faster and faster. I couldn''t help but watch her hand, her fingers, and her wrist; everything moved so fluidly, like she''d done this a thousand times.

    Jaune: Nice trick. Too bad it''s not very practical.

    I immediately regretted my words. Dad always told me: If you don''t have anything nice or wise to say, it''s better to stay quiet.

    Ruby turned to me, her expression playful.

    Ruby: You''re right. But think about it this way: you walk into battle spinning the sword like this, head held high. Suddenly, you stop, point your weapon at the enemy, and declare: "Today, you meet your destiny!" Cool, right?The story has been illicitly taken; should you find it on Amazon, report the infringement.

    I had to admit, if a warrior a fully armored knight with a booming voice performed that scene, it would make an impression. But Ruby''s cheerful delivery made it more... comical. Still, remembering Dad''s lessons, I responded tactfully.

    Jaune: Well... you''re right in a way.

    Ruby: Of course I am!

    Her smile was infectious, and I felt a small sense of satisfaction seeing her so excited.

    Ruby: Oh, Jaune, I''m sorry.

    Jaune: For what?

    Ruby: Where are my manners? Here.

    She reached for her weapon, intending to hand it to me.

    Jaune: No, Ruby, no need.

    Ruby: Are you sure?

    Jaune: Yes, yes, no problem at all.

    Ruby''s weapon, Crescent Rose, was a scythe that doubled as a sniper rifle an unheard-of combination. When she first showed it to me, I almost dropped it trying to switch between its forms. Luckily, I managed to hold on, but barely. I had no idea how this small girl could wield such a weapon so effortlessly.

    I''ll have to add more sets to my workouts, I thought. And maybe a few extra kilometers per week.

    I''d been training hard for the past six months after receiving news of my acceptance to Beacon. But clearly, there was still a long way to go.

    Ruby made a few impressive combos with Crescent Rose before returning it to me.

    Ruby: Jaune, do you have any classmates here?

    Jaune: From my class?

    Ruby: You know, any friends who also got into Beacon? I was planning to come here with some of mine, but they''ve got two more years to go. So now I''m wondering if it''s the same for you.

    I couldn''t tell her the truth that I went to a regular public school, that my only "training" lasted six months, and that I probably shouldn''t even be here.

    Jaune: Well... I kind of learned and trained more at home.

    Ruby: Oh, right! You mentioned your great-grandfather was in the military. Your family probably has a long history of service, huh? No wonder you''ve got firsthand knowledge.

    I hated lying, but at that moment, I didn''t have much of a choice.

    Jaune: Yep, that''s exactly it.

    Ruby: Same here, sort of. My uncle trained me.

    Jaune: Really?

    Ruby blushed slightly before continuing.

    Ruby: You see, I wasn''t the best student until my Uncle Qrow took me under his wing. Even my weapon is modeled after his. Only...

    She hesitated, and the pause stretched longer and longer. It surprised me Ruby had been so talkative and enthusiastic until now.

    Jaune: Yes, Ruby?

    Suddenly, she blurted out her words in a rush:

    Ruby: Mine''s a better version! His weapon''s just a sword that turns into a scythe, which is cool, but isn''t a sniper rifle and scythe combo so much better?

    I had to take a step back as she surged forward, speaking in one breath.

    Collecting myself, I replied thoughtfully.

    Jaune: Hmm, interesting point. Both the sword and scythe are melee weapons, but the scythe has better range and versatility, depending on the handle and blade. Still, they''re both front-line weapons. Firearms, especially sniper rifles, allow for better battlefield control hough finding the right shooting position can be tricky.

    I paused, then added:

    Jaune: That said, you mentioned mobility is your strong point, right?

    Ruby: Um... yes. My semblance gives me great speed and mobility.

    Jaune: In that case, I''d say you''re right. Your weapon combo is better. It''s even fair to call it an improved version of your uncle''s weapon.

    Ruby stared at me for a moment before shouting triumphantly:

    Ruby: I KNEW IT!

    We continued walking together, but suddenly Ruby asked a surprising question.

    Ruby: Where are we going, anyway?

    I froze.

    Jaune: I thought you knew.

    Ruby: I''ve been following you this whole time.

    I could''ve sworn we''d been walking side by side, but I decided to let it slide. Looking around, I spotted someone I was eighty percent sure I''d seen on the ship earlier. Grabbing Ruby''s hand, I said:

    Jaune: This way.

    Ruby: Definitely?

    I really hope I''m not leading us astray.

    Jaune: Definitely.

 The first night away from home

    It''s good to be lucky. Ruby and I somehow managed to find the hall where the assembly for new students was taking place. Of course, I confidently told her I knew the way all along that luck had nothing to do with it. Gosh, I''m diving deeper into lies. But honestly, is tweaking the truth a little to impress someone so bad? Especially when that someone is a nice, pretty girl?

    The assembly itself was relatively straightforward. Unfortunately, Ruby had to leave to join her sister, who had saved her a seat. I learned that tomorrow we''d have an exam that would decide team placements. We were also given information about class schedules, professors, meal times, and other logistics. Most importantly, I received my personal scroll and access to a mobile weapon locker. I was particularly thrilled about the scroll¡ªit had a map of the entire campus. There''s no way I''ll get lost now.

    After the assembly, I found Ruby again. This time, she was with her sister¡ªa tall, athletic blonde with long hair cascading down her back. Beside them stood a petite girl with ashen hair tied in a long ponytail and skin so pale she looked like a snowflake brought to life. Her name, as I later learned, was Weiss Schnee. Our first meeting... didn''t go so well. Let''s just say she left an icy impression.

    Then there was Pyrrha. Tall, lean, and visibly strong, she wore her bright red hair in a ponytail. At first, I didn''t pay her much attention, but after my not-so-great interaction with Weiss, Pyrrha and I exchanged a few words. She turned out to be a kind and friendly girl¡ªand something of a celebrity. Apparently, she was even featured on a cereal box! That bit left me a little embarrassed, but Pyrrha turned it into a joke and laughed it off. Really nice girl.

    After all that, I headed to the hall that would serve as a temporary dormitory for new students. We wouldn''t get assigned rooms until teams were decided.

    So, here I am. Surrounded by people I barely know, far from home, and with tomorrow''s exam looming large in my mind. Tomorrow, I''ll meet the people I''ll be working with for the next three years. I hope Ruby is one of them. Maybe even Weiss? After all, it wouldn''t be right to write her off after one bad first impression.A case of theft: this story is not rightfully on Amazon; if you spot it, report the violation.

    My thoughts swirled, making it impossible to relax, let alone sleep. Hoping to clear my head, I decided to go to the bathroom and splash my face with cold water.

    As I walked down the corridor, I saw someone approaching from the opposite direction. It was the boy who had accosted me on the ship. I tried to pass by silently, but he noticed me and immediately stopped in front of me.

    -Cardin: Skinny boy! Still here? Haven''t gone home yet?

    I greeted him with a sincere smile.

    -Jaune: What are those faces for? Don''t tell me you''re not excited to see me.

    -Cardin: Excited? Ha! I barely remember our first meeting. Anyway, I''m not calling you skinny boy anymore. What''s your name again?

    -Jaune: Jaune Arc.

    -Cardin: Right, where are my manners? I''m Cardin Winchester.

    -Jaune: Pleasure to meet you.

    Cardin stood there for a moment, looking me up and down. Then, out of nowhere, he grabbed my shoulder.

    -Cardin: You know, I think we got off on the wrong foot. Those "friendly scuffles" earlier? No hard feelings, right?

    -Jaune: Friendly scuffles. Right.

    -Cardin: But hey, look at you. I really thought you''d go home after that. But no you stayed. Tomorrow, you''ll take part in the team selection and start your hunter education at full speed. Way to go.

    He released me well, more like he decided to let me go.

    -Cardin: Who knows? Maybe we''ll end up on the same team.

    -Jaune: That would be... interesting.

    He smirked at my words and started walking away. As he left, he called back over his shoulder:

    -Cardin: Get some rest, buddy. Tomorrow''s a big day.

    I waited until he disappeared down the corridor before continuing to the bathroom. Splashing cold water on my face helped clear my head. By the time I returned to the hall, I felt much calmer, ready to sleep.

    As I lay down, one final thought crossed my mind: Am I ready for what''s coming tomorrow? I reassured myself it''s just the first task they''re giving us. It can''t be too hard.

    Little did I know how wrong I was.

 First Step: Shooting Out

    We were standing on square platforms spaced evenly apart, each suspended high above the forest below. I couldn''t help but notice the others around me adopting strange, almost theatrical poses. They seemed calm and prepared, while I... I felt like my legs might give out at any moment. My heart raced as though it was trying to escape my chest.

    "Uh... Professor Ozpin, sir?" I asked, my voice trembling slightly despite my best efforts to sound composed. "What exactly do you mean by ''your own landing technique''?"

    Professor Ozpin turned his head toward me, his expression unreadable. His cool, even tone only added to my unease. "It means exactly what I said, Mr. Arc."

    I could feel the weight of his gaze pressing down on me, making it hard to breathe. My throat was dry, but I somehow managed to stammer, "Oh, uh... right. Sorry for the unnecessary question."

    He looked away, leaving me to my spiraling thoughts. I wanted to ask about parachutes or literally any safety mechanism¡ªbut I held my tongue. First, because I couldn''t see anyone else with a parachute. And second, because I didn''t want to invite Ozpin''s unnerving attention again. There was something about him... something that made me feel incredibly small.

    Suddenly, a loud thoomp echoed through the air as the first person was launched into the sky. My stomach churned. Cold sweat dripped down my back as I watched them disappear into the treetops. Everyone else seemed so calm, so confident. If they could handle this, then surely, I could too. Right?The author''s tale has been misappropriated; report any instances of this story on Amazon.

    I bent my knees slightly, trying to mimic the stances of the others, and leaned forward to prepare myself for the inevitable.

    When my turn came, the sheer force of the launch was overwhelming. I shot into the air like a cannonball, the wind ripping past me as I soared higher and higher. My plan had been simple¡ªspread my arms and legs to stabilize myself, aim for the treetops, and try to snag a branch on the way down to slow my descent.

    It sounded good in theory. In practice? A total disaster.

    The launch sent me into an uncontrollable spin. I twisted and tumbled through the air, utterly disoriented and completely panicked. The world became a dizzying blur of green and blue. I couldn''t tell which way was up or down. All I knew was that I was falling¡ªfast.

    My thoughts raced even faster. This is it. This is how I die. My hunter career is over before it even begins. I''ll be a cautionary tale ''remember that kid who didn''t even make it past initiation?'' I cursed myself for every bad decision that had led me to this moment.

    Then, the treetops came into view closer, closer. I braced myself for the crash, but instead of a soft landing or even a painful one, I felt a sudden jerk. My body whipped sideways as something yanked me toward a nearby tree trunk.

    I hit the trunk hard, the impact knocking the wind out of me. Dazed, I looked up and saw it. A golden-red spear, its sharp blade embedded deep into the wood, had stopped my fall. My eyes widened as recognition set in. That weapon... it was familiar. I knew exactly who it belonged to.

 First Step: Aura

    The view from the tree wasn''t half bad, all things considered. Being stuck there gave me a unique vantage point of the forest. The canopy stretched endlessly, but it wasn''t as dense as I''d feared. Navigating through it might not be the nightmare I''d imagined.

    As I scanned the area, my eyes landed on a familiar figure. Weiss Schnee. She moved gracefully through the woods, her white outfit standing out against the greens and browns. I opened my mouth to call out to her, but just as I raised my hand, she stopped, turned sharply on her heel, and walked the other way.

    I sighed, slumping slightly against the tree. Did she see me and decide to avoid me? I thought bitterly. Or maybe she''d forgotten something and was going back for it. I clung to the second idea, though a nagging voice in the back of my head told me I was fooling myself.

    Before I could dwell too much on it, the spear pinning me to the tree started to tremble. At first, it was a gentle vibration, and I stared at it, dumbfounded. Then it yanked free with startling speed and flew away, leaving me with nothing to hold me up.

    Gravity took over, and I plummeted.

    "Ahhhhhh¡ªoomph!" I hit the ground hard, knocking the air out of my lungs. For a moment, I lay there groaning, waiting to assess whether I was broken into pieces. Thankfully, aside from a few bruises, I was in one piece. I pushed myself up slowly, wincing. Could''ve been worse.

    "Jaune! Oh, I''m so sorry! Are you okay?"

    The voice was soft, warm, and carried a note of genuine concern. I looked up to see Pyrrha Nikos standing a few feet away, her red ponytail swaying slightly, her gold-and-red spear back in her hands.

    I blinked, trying to collect myself. "So... I owe my rescue to you?"

    Pyrrha smiled sheepishly, brushing a strand of hair behind her ear. "Kind of. I really am sorry about the fall. I should have pulled you down more gently."

    I stared at her for a moment, stunned by her sincerity. She didn''t just save me¡ªshe was apologizing because she thought she hadn''t done it well enough. Who does that?If you spot this narrative on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation.

    "It''s not a big deal," I said, managing a weak smile. "Besides, if you hadn''t helped, my landing probably would''ve been a lot worse. So... thanks."

    Her smile brightened, but then she tilted her head slightly, her expression curious. "May I ask you something, Jaune?"

    "Uh, sure," I said hesitantly, dusting myself off.

    She stepped closer, holding my gaze. "Why didn''t you use your Aura?"

    Her question hit me like a ton of bricks. My heart sank. Why didn''t I use my Aura? Because I couldn''t. Because, for all my training and all the tutorials I''d devoured, I hadn''t managed to awaken it. I didn''t know how to tell her that without sounding like a complete failure.

    I hesitated, scrambling for an answer. Lying wasn''t something I liked doing, but I''d been resorting to it more and more lately. "Uh, yeah... I''ve been having this... blockage. I don''t know what''s going on, but I''m hoping it''ll pass soon."

    Pyrrha studied me for a moment, and I felt a bead of sweat roll down my temple. Finally, she nodded, her expression softening. "A blockage? That makes sense. With all the stress we''re under, it''s no wonder. Maybe I can help?"

    "Help?" I echoed, unsure what she meant.

    "Here." She extended her hands toward me. "Take my hands."

    I hesitated, then reached out, our hands clasping. Her grip was firm but reassuring. I glanced down, confused, but before I could ask, she explained, "Just relax. Don''t overthink it. I''m going to try to guide your Aura, okay?"

    I nodded, though I wasn''t sure what she was doing. I watched as she closed her eyes and furrowed her brow, focusing intensely. At first, nothing happened. Then, I felt it¡ªa strange tingling sensation in my hands that spread up my arms and through my body. It was warm, almost comforting, like standing in sunlight after a cold day.

    I closed my eyes, letting the feeling wash over me. When I opened them again, I gasped. Pyrrha was surrounded by golden flames, though they didn''t burn. They flickered and danced, radiating a soothing warmth. I looked down at my own hands, startled to see them glowing with a soft light.

    "Whoa," I whispered.

    "Focus," Pyrrha said gently. "Breathe deeply and try to calm your mind."

    I followed her instructions, taking slow, steady breaths. Gradually, the light faded, and the warmth subsided. I looked up at her, still in awe.

    "Good job, Jaune," she said with a proud smile. "Everything went well. How do you feel?"

    I hesitated, still processing what had just happened. Finally, I managed, "Different... but better. Thanks."

    Pyrrha beamed. "You''re welcome."

 First Step: Bodyguard

    I found a patch of even ground clear of trees and bushes, the perfect spot to practice. My hands instinctively went to my sword and shield, and I started running through combinations, swinging and blocking in a steady rhythm. The whole time, my mind buzzed with the lingering excitement from my Aura awakening. It was incredible like unlocking a part of myself I hadn''t known existed.

    Pyrrha sat nearby on the trunk of a fallen tree, her eyes fixed on me with quiet intensity. I half expected her to question my sudden need to stop and practice, but she simply nodded when I asked.

    "You''re a really skilled swordsman, Jaune," she said as I finished my routine and slid my sword back into its sheath.

    I turned toward her, smiling despite myself.

    "Thanks for sticking around, Pyrrha. I really appreciate it."

    She brushed a stray strand of hair away from her forehead and stood, stepping off the tree trunk.

    "Oh, come on. Where would I find a better partner?"

    I let out a chuckle, but deep down, a nagging voice whispered that she could easily find someone better. I pushed the thought aside and adjusted my shield.

    "We should get moving."

    Pyrrha nodded, falling in step behind me as I took the lead. I don''t know what made me think I should be in front¡ªprobably a mix of adrenaline and overconfidence from my earlier practice session. She didn¡¯t protest, though, just trailed behind a few steps, calm and composed as always.If you come across this story on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen from Royal Road. Please report it.

    We made our way through the forest, the air thick with tension and the faint sounds of rustling leaves. I should''ve been more vigilant, but my focus was scattered. When Pyrrha suddenly shouted a warning, I froze like a deer caught in headlights.

    "Jaune, watch out!"

    Instead of taking a defensive stance or preparing for an attack, I made the worst mistake I could: I turned toward her, wide-eyed and clueless.

    Out of the corner of my eye, I saw the shadow of something charging toward me. Before I could react, Pyrrha was a blur of motion. She dashed forward with her spear, unleashing a flurry of precise, lightning-fast thrusts that stopped the Grimm in its tracks. She finished with a fluid spin, positioning herself between me and the creature with her shield raised high.

    The Grimm snarled and lunged, but Pyrrha met its attack with unshakable determination. Her movements were so precise, so graceful it was like watching a master artist at work. In a matter of seconds, the Grimm disintegrated into ash, leaving nothing but silence in its wake.

    Pyrrha lowered her shield and turned to face me, her expression soft but serious.

    "Are you all right?"

    I stared at her, my chest heaving, my brain still trying to process what had just happened. Finally, I managed to stammer out,

    "Y-yeah. I''m good. Thanks."

    In truth, I wasn¡¯t okay. Not really. I was stunned, embarrassed, and, above all, angry at myself. I should¡¯ve been the one protecting her. Instead, she had to save me while I stood there like an idiot. I clenched my fists, trying to push down the frustration bubbling up inside me.

    Pyrrha didn¡¯t press me further. She simply smiled and patted me on the shoulder.

    "Let¡¯s keep moving," she said gently, as though nothing had happened.

    I nodded, swallowing hard.

    She¡¯s amazing, I thought, following her lead this time. And I have a lot of catching up to do.

 First step: road to the temple

    Pyrrha took the lead, her posture steady and confident. I didn''t question her decision it was the logical choice. As for me, I trudged along behind her, my shoulders tense and my mind racing. I should¡¯ve felt relieved, even grateful, to have someone like Pyrrha by my side. But instead, I was consumed by a gnawing disappointment in myself.

    She tried to make conversation a few times, but I couldn¡¯t muster more than a nod or a grunt in response. Eventually, she stopped trying and focused entirely on scanning the area for threats. The silence between us grew heavy, filled only by the sound of our boots crunching through the forest undergrowth.

    As we trekked deeper into the woods, we came across a cave entrance. Its jagged maw stretched downward into darkness, the path within twisting and turning out of sight. Pyrrha suggested we move on it was too risky to navigate an uncertain path. I agreed, and we pressed further into the forest.

    During our hike, Pyrrha mentioned reading about the ruins of an old temple somewhere in the northern part of the forest.

    "It might contain artifacts relics of some kind that shouldn¡¯t just be scattered around in the wild," she explained.

    It wasn¡¯t much of a lead, but it was the only point of reference we had, so we adjusted our course.

    The forest wasn¡¯t quiet. Grimm appeared occasionally, emerging from the shadows like dark phantoms. Pyrrha dispatched them with a skill that was as effortless as it was awe-inspiring. My admiration for her grew with each encounter, but so did my frustration. I was barely a participant in these fights, an observer at best.This story is posted elsewhere by the author. Help them out by reading the authentic version.

    Finally, we stumbled upon a clearing. In its center were the remnants of crumbling walls, and beyond them, the ruins of the temple we had been seeking. What was left of it looked pitiful¡ªeroded stones and broken pillars scattered haphazardly. Doubt crept into my mind.

    "Could we really find anything useful here?" I muttered under my breath.

    Still, since we¡¯d come this far, it was worth taking a look.

    As we approached, movement caught my eye. From behind a large stone stepped a Grimm unlike any I¡¯d seen before. It was small, humanoid in shape, with stubby claws and tiny, horn-like protrusions on its head. In its hand, it clutched a crude mace, its surface jagged and uneven.

    The creature seemed nervous, its head twitching as it glanced around. Was it lost? Separated from its group? Or perhaps it had wandered here on purpose? Pyrrha instinctively readied her weapon, but I raised a hand to stop her.

    "This one¡¯s mine," I said firmly.

    She hesitated, her gaze flicking between me and the Grimm. For a moment, I thought she would protest, but instead, she gave me a serious nod and sheathed her weapon.

    This was my chance. My opportunity to prove I wasn¡¯t just dead weight. I gripped my sword tightly and unsheathed my shield, stepping forward to face the Grimm.

    The creature noticed me and froze, its glowing eyes narrowing. My heart pounded, but I forced myself to take a deep breath. Stay calm. Focus.

    The Grimm growled low in its throat, then lunged. I braced myself, my sword and shield raised.

    It was time to prove to myself and to Pyrrha that I could do this.

 First step: fight

    I tightened my grip on my sword and shield, determined to meet the Grimm head-on. With a confident step forward, I assumed a low stance, my knees bent, shield raised to guard, and sword ready to slash upward. The Grimm hissed, an aggressive, guttural sound, and began circling me in a wide arc. Its empty, button-like eyes gleamed with malice, fixated on me.

    Suddenly, it darted forward with surprising speed. My pulse quickened. When it was just meters away, I surged ahead, aiming to bring my blade down on its skull. But the creature was faster than I''d anticipated it ducked under my swing and retaliated with a vicious mace strike.

    I barely got my shield up in time. The impact rattled through my arm and staggered me. How is this thing so strong? I thought, a flash of doubt creeping in. I''d underestimated it, and I was paying the price. I stepped back, trying to create distance and regain control, but the Grimm didn''t let up.

    It charged at me, swinging its crude weapon wildly. I blocked the first two strikes, but the third slammed into my stomach, sending pain lancing through my torso. I gritted my teeth and stayed on my feet, but every breath was a struggle, sharp and painful.

    The Grimm backed off, hopping in place and screeching with an almost childlike glee. My vision blurred slightly as I tried to catch my breath, my frustration mounting. It was celebrating mocking me. I clenched my fists, anger bubbling under my skin. That''s when Pyrrha''s voice rang out.Unauthorized usage: this narrative is on Amazon without the author''s consent. Report any sightings.

    "Jaune, strengthen your aura!"

    Of course! My aura! How could I forget? I closed my eyes and took several deep breaths, willing the tingling sensation I''d felt earlier to return. Nothing. My frustration grew into a roaring anger not at myself this time, but at the Grimm. How dare this grotesque little monster put me in this position? It wasn''t skilled or clever; it was clumsy, crude, and filthy.

    A surge of energy welled up from within me, starting as a faint buzz in my chest and spreading rapidly to my arms, back, and legs. The pain in my stomach vanished, replaced by a lightness that made me feel as though I could leap over the treetops.

    I straightened up, exhaling deeply as confidence flooded my veins. The Grimm screeched again and charged at me. This time, I met its rush with my shield, slamming into it with all my newfound strength. The creature soared backward, flipping through the air before crashing to the ground several meters away.

    It scrambled to its feet, letting out a furious squeal, and charged again. But now, its movements seemed slow and predictable. I blocked its frenzied swings with ease, my shield absorbing the blows effortlessly. I slashed out, aiming low, and caught it in the face, gouging out one of its eyes.

    The Grimm staggered, shrieking in pain, and stumbled backward. I seized the opportunity, stepping forward and driving my sword straight through its torso. The creature convulsed once before dissolving into black smoke and ashes, scattered by the breeze.

    I stood there for a moment, panting slightly, the adrenaline still coursing through me. A slow smile spread across my face as I turned to look at Pyrrha.

    She was watching me with a mix of pride and relief. "Well done, Jaune," she said, her voice warm and steady.

    For the first time since this test began, I felt like I could hold my head high.

 Bestiary

    Grimm-Goblins: A Comprehensive Guide

    Grimm-Goblins are a species of Grimm encountered in the world of Remnant. They exhibit distinct physical and behavioral traits depending on their evolutionary stage. There are three primary varieties of Grimm-Goblins: The Youngest, The Evolved, and The Final (also known as "Mountain").

    1 The Youngest (Juvenile Grimm-Goblin)

    Physical Characteristics:

    Average height: 1.4 meters (4''7").Small, underdeveloped body structure.Numerous small protuberances on the skull.Lacks significant claws and fangs, making direct combat inefficient.Frequently uses scavenged items such as large branches or abandoned human weapons as tools or improvised clubs.

    Behavior:

    Prefers dark, enclosed spaces such as caves and abandoned mines.Rarely found in open areas due to its aversion to exposure.Displays low aggression levels compared to its evolved forms.

    Rarity:

    Encounters are uncommon.2.

    2 The Evolved (Mature Grimm-Goblin)

    Physical Characteristics:If you encounter this tale on Amazon, note that it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it.

    Average height: Approximately 1.6 meters (5''3").Noticeable increase in body mass and musculature compared to the youngest form.Developed claws and fangs, which serve as primary combat tools.Possesses small horns and visible bony structures along the spine, giving it a more menacing appearance.

    Behavior:

    Highly aggressive and territorial.Frequently attacks intruders without provocation.Found primarily in caves and abandoned mines but more commonly encountered than the youngest variety.

    Combat Notes:

    Hunters should be cautious, as these Grimm attack swiftly and with precision using their natural weapons.

    3 The Final (Mountain Grimm-Goblin)

    Physical Characteristics:

    Average height: Up to 1.8 meters (5''11").Larger, more imposing frame with exceptional speed and agility.Horns curve slightly at the tips, adding to its intimidating visage.Long arms provide extended reach in combat.Wings sprout from its back, though they are non-functional for true flight. These wings allow for gliding and sharp aerial maneuvers.

    Behavior:

    Primarily prowls mountainous regions, utilizing the terrain to its advantage.Exhibits advanced predatory instincts and high levels of aggression.

    Combat Notes:

    This variety is the most dangerous of the three. Its speed and reach make it a formidable opponent, even for seasoned hunters.Wing-assisted gliding enables it to strike from unexpected angles, adding to its combat versatility.

    Summary of Grimm-Goblin Behavior and HabitatVarietyHeightKey TraitsPrimary HabitatDanger LevelThe Youngest~1.4 mSmall, weak, uses tools/clubsCaves, abandoned minesLowThe Evolved~1.6 mSharp claws, visible spinesCaves, abandoned minesMediumThe Final~1.8 mHorned, glides with wingsMountainous regionsHigh

    Hunters are advised to remain vigilant when encountering these creatures, as their increasing strength, aggression, and adaptability make them progressively more dangerous in their later stages of development.

 First step: Artifact

    I straightened up as the tingling sensation subsided. Stretching lightly, I noticed Pyrrha approaching me. She congratulated me and then suggested we continue searching for the artifacts.

    We entered a ruined building that must have once served as a cathedral. I gazed at the remnants of the ceiling, barely clinging to the rotting beams. I feared they might collapse on us at any moment. Suddenly, Pyrrha snapped me out of my thoughts.

    "Look, Jaune."

    On several stone pedestals stood gilded chess pieces. I stepped closer and noticed that some of the pedestals were empty. I saw a few pawns remaining, but my attention was drawn to the knight piece one of the more valuable pieces on the board. I carefully lifted it from the pedestal, ready for any potential trap. Thankfully, nothing happened.

    Holding up the knight, I examined it closely before handing it to Pyrrha.This content has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere.

    "What do you think? Do you think it¡¯s good enough?" I asked, a slight note of concern in my voice.

    "I think it¡¯s perfect. Great job, Jaune."

    I smiled and was about to head toward the exit when I suddenly heard the sound of someone running.

    Like a flash of lightning, a red-haired girl burst into the cathedral ruins. With a wild shout, she dashed toward the pedestals, grabbed one of the pieces, and then yelled at the top of her lungs:

    "PONY!"

    She ran several laps around the ruined altar, waving the piece energetically. Finally, she shouted with excitement:

    "Look what I¡¯ve got! Isn¡¯t it beautiful?! This has to be it! We¡¯re just amazing!!!"

    I stood frozen, utterly stunned by the scene. After a moment, I realized she wasn¡¯t addressing me but a boy dressed in white pants and a green vest, with black hair, who had just emerged from the doorway.

    The stranger ran toward him, threw her arms around his neck, and started talking to him with great enthusiasm. Moments later, the two disappeared into the depths of the corridor.

    Pyrrha commented on the whole situation with a soft chuckle and a smile.

    "Let¡¯s go," she said, and I nodded.

    Together, we left the ruins.

 First step: great danger

    We went outside, and the sun was already setting in the west. I looked at the two strangers. The red-haired girl seemed energetic and cheerful, while her companion appeared calm and quiet. Such a contrast in personalities! Pyrrha and I decided to talk to them.

    The red-haired girl introduced herself with a bright smile. ¡°I¡¯m Nora Valkyrie!¡± she said enthusiastically. Then she gestured toward her companion. ¡°And this is Lin Ren. We¡¯ve known each other forever!¡±

    Ren nodded politely. ¡°It¡¯s just Ren,¡± he said softly, his voice calm and measured.

    The way they interacted made it clear they were best friends. Despite their differences, they fit together perfectly.

    Our conversation revolved around being hunters.

    ¡°What kind of weapons do you use?¡± I asked.

    Nora grinned and hefted her massive hammer. ¡°This bad boy is Magnhild. It¡¯s a hammer and a grenade launcher!¡±

    Ren pulled out his twin weapons. ¡°StormFlower,¡± he said simply. ¡°They¡¯re blades and guns.¡±

    Pyrrha smiled, resting her spear on her shoulder. ¡°I use a combination of a spear,sword and a rifle. It¡¯s versatile in both melee and ranged combat.¡±

    Before I could describe my own gear, something strange happened. Birds nearby suddenly flew off in a panic.

    ¡°What¡¯s going on?¡± I asked, looking up at the sky.

    A deep rumbling sound came from the courtyard, and the ground began to ripple, chunks of dirt and roots rising into the air. Suddenly, a huge Grimm scorpion, as big as a truck, emerged. Its long, menacing tail lashed dangerously as it roared and turned toward us.

    Nora and Ren didn¡¯t hesitate.

    ¡°Let¡¯s go, Ren!¡± Nora shouted, already charging forward.

    A case of content theft: this narrative is not rightfully on Amazon; if you spot it, report the violation.Ren followed close behind, his expression focused.

    Pyrrha grabbed my arm. ¡°Find shelter!¡± she commanded before running to join the fight.

    I stood frozen, my body refusing to move, as I watched the battle unfold in disbelief.

    Ren darted between the scorpion¡¯s pincers, striking with his blades. dodging a deadly swipe.

    Nora clung to the Grimm¡¯s back, swinging her hammer.

    ¡°Time to break this thing wide open!¡± she yelled, smashing through its armor.

    Pyrrha stayed at a distance, firing precise projectiles to support them.

    ¡°I¡¯ll cover you!¡± she called, her shield raised to intercept a strike.

    The Grimm was terrifying its massive pincers could crush trees, and its dark eyes gleamed with malice. Its tail lashed dangerously, and its legs somehow supported its enormous body.

    Suddenly, an idea struck me. I swallowed hard and shouted, ¡°Nora! Aim for the legs!¡±

    She glanced at me and smiled. ¡°Got it!¡± she said before jumping off the scorpion¡¯s back to strike its legs. The Grimm staggered, its tail swinging wildly.

    ¡°Pyrrha, handle the tail! Ren, go for the eyes!¡± I yelled.

    Pyrrha threw her spear high into the sky. For a moment, I thought she hadn¡¯t heard me, but then the spear came whistling down and pinned the scorpion¡¯s tail to the ground. Ren switched his weapons and unleashed a hail of bullets on the Grimm¡¯s head, forcing it to shield itself with its pincers.

    The Grimm was trapped, but I knew it wouldn¡¯t stay that way for long. We needed to finish it. My mind raced.

    Maybe I could find a weak spot in its armor and pierce it with my sword? But fear held me back¡ªI couldn¡¯t move.

    I clenched my fists. ¡°This isn¡¯t right,¡± I muttered to myself. ¡°I can¡¯t just stand here giving orders!¡±

    Then I noticed Nora running toward Pyrrha. They whispered briefly before Nora sprinted toward the forest. Pyrrha raised her shield, bracing herself.

    I watched, confused, until their plan became clear.

    Nora turned and charged back toward Pyrrha.

    ¡°Let¡¯s do this!¡± she shouted. At the last moment, she leaped onto Pyrrha¡¯s shield. Pyrrha launched her into the air with a mighty push.

    ¡°Incoming!¡± Nora bellowed as she soared through the air. She brought her hammer down on the scorpion¡¯s skull with the force of a thunderbolt.

    The Grimm thrashed violently but stopped after a moment, collapsing as its body began to disintegrate.

 First step: Way Back

    I stared at the empty spot where the Grimm had been moments ago. Now, there was no trace of it. Ren and Pyrrha stood nearby, discussing the fight. Nora, however, rushed over to me, brimming with energy.

    ¡°That was awesome!¡± she exclaimed. ¡°We were so well-coordinated! And that scorpion Grimm? Nasty! But we crushed it!¡±

    I listened with a guilty expression, knowing I hadn¡¯t really helped. Even so, Nora didn¡¯t seem to hold it against me. She was just happy we all made it out alive.

    Then, she said something unexpected.

    ¡°You know what, Jaune? You¡¯re actually good at coming up with plans. Don¡¯t you think you¡¯d make a great captain?¡±

    The idea was so ridiculous that my smile turned into an embarrassed grimace.

    ¡°Me? A captain?¡± I muttered under my breath.

    If anyone asked, I¡¯d recommend Pyrrha without hesitation. Lost in thought, I wondered if Nora was joking or if I was overanalyzing. I was about to congratulate her on her hammer strike when Pyrrha¡¯s voice interrupted my thoughts.

    ¡°I think it¡¯s a great idea. You¡¯d make a great captain, Jaune.¡±

    Startled, I realized Pyrrha and Ren were standing behind me. I hadn¡¯t even noticed them approach while I was focused on Nora. What shocked me more was Pyrrha supporting Nora¡¯s suggestion. I looked at Ren, hoping for a reasonable counterpoint, but he simply nodded in agreement.

    I couldn¡¯t believe it. Embarrassed, I stammered, ¡°Come on, don¡¯t be silly. I didn¡¯t do anything I just stood back and watched.¡±

    Pyrrha stepped closer, her smile warm and confident. The wind played with her hair, making her look even more stunning.

    ¡°But you were the one who came up with the plan to immobilize the Grimm. You led us to victory like a true leader,¡± she said.Royal Road is the home of this novel. Visit there to read the original and support the author.

    I didn¡¯t think my actions deserved that much credit. Flustered, I decided to change the subject.

    ¡°Okay, we can talk about this later. Let¡¯s focus on getting out of the forest first, shall we?¡±

    Everyone agreed, and we headed back. I kept a wary eye out for more Grimm, but the forest seemed peaceful. Maybe the other participants had cleared the area.

    Eventually, we reached a clearing where a group of people had gathered. We decided to join them. Almost immediately, Nora vanished into the crowd.

    ¡°I¡¯d better follow her, or who knows where she¡¯ll end up,¡± Ren sighed. He walked off.

    Pyrrha mentioned she needed to check on something and excused herself, leaving me alone. It wasn¡¯t so bad; I figured we were all just waiting for transport. Walking back wasn¡¯t exactly an option.

    With nothing to do, I started looking around. That¡¯s when I spotted a familiar face. I walked over and tapped her shoulder.

    ¡°Hey, Ruby. How¡¯s it going?¡±

    Ruby turned around, her surprised expression quickly replaced by a smile.

    ¡°Oh, Jaune! You made it in one piece. That¡¯s great!¡±

    Her words made me chuckle, though they stung just a little.

    ¡°Are you saying you doubted me?¡± I teased.

    Ruby blushed, waving her hands in front of her.

    ¡°No! Not at all!¡± she insisted, clearly flustered.

    Ruby Rose was undeniably sweet. I laughed and kept the conversation going.

    ¡°Are you here alone? How¡¯d that happen?¡±

    Ruby shook her head and glanced around, though it seemed she didn¡¯t spot what she was looking for.

    ¡°No, my sister Yang, Weiss, and Blake are with me. Blake¡¯s the one with the big black bow maybe you¡¯ve seen her? But we got separated for a bit.¡±

    I tried to recall seeing anyone with a bow but came up empty.

    ¡°Can¡¯t say I have. But I¡¯m surprised the ¡®Snow Queen¡¯ is keeping you company.¡±

    Ruby grinned smugly. ¡°Not just keeping me company we¡¯re on the same team!¡±

    I was surprised but not overly so, given how strange the day had been. I scratched my head.

    ¡°Life¡¯s funny like that, huh? Anyway, we¡¯re waiting for transport here, right?¡±

    Ruby nodded and pointed toward a small hill.

    ¡°Yep. Professor Glynda was just here. She said the transport ship should arrive any minute now.¡±

    I nodded in thanks, but before I could reply, the hum of engines drew my attention. A transporter appeared overhead, descending near the group. It seemed like a good time to say goodbye and find my team.

 Dark Thoughts

    People started gathering around the ship, and I worried I wouldn''t find my team in time. Luckily, after scanning the crowd, I heard a familiar voice shout.

    "HEY! Captain, over here!"

    It was Nora, standing above the crowd and wobbling precariously. For a moment, I wondered what she was balancing on. When I got closer, it became clear Ren was the platform. Of course.

    Nora jumped down and walked up to me in a few quick steps, nudging me on the shoulder.

    "We''re finally heading back! Isn''t that great? I can''t wait to have a real dinner and a nice bath. OOH! Ren, how about making pancakes when we get back?"

    Ren, rubbing his arm, replied with a serious expression.

    "I think there''ll already be a meal waiting for us, so there''s no need for me to make pancakes."

    In an instant, Nora was nose-to-nose with Ren. Despite her sudden closeness, Ren didn¡¯t flinch. With a pout and her hands clasped in a pleading gesture, Nora said,

    "I''m sure there''ll be lots of yummy food waiting for us, but I''ll always have room for your pancakes. And who said you need to make them right away? They could be our second dinner!"

    I couldn¡¯t help but be amused by the idea of a second dinner, though I stayed out of their conversation. Ren stared at her for a moment, then sighed.

    "If you''re still hungry after dinner, I''ll make you pancakes."

    As soon as he said this, Nora hugged him tightly and let out a joyful scream. For a moment, I thought I saw Ren smile, though I couldn¡¯t be sure. What an unusual pair they were.If you stumble upon this narrative on Amazon, it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it.

    Once Nora let him go, I stepped closer.

    "Hey, have either of you seen Pyrrha?"

    They both looked at each other, clearly surprised. Surprisingly, it was Ren who spoke first.

    "I thought she was with you."

    Great. It seemed we wouldn¡¯t be looking for Nora this time we¡¯d be looking for Pyrrha. Before I could think about what to do next, Nora was back on Ren¡¯s shoulders, shouting at the top of her lungs.

    "PYRRHA! WHERE ARE YOU?!"

    I cringed as her shouting drew attention from the crowd, but I couldn¡¯t deny its effectiveness. A moment later, I spotted Pyrrha weaving her way toward us. As soon as she noticed us, she quickened her pace and arrived moments later, slightly out of breath.

    "I¡¯m so sorry! Did I keep you waiting long?" she asked, her voice apologetic.

    Before I could respond, Nora chimed in cheerfully.

    "No problem! The important thing is that we¡¯re all together now."

    I nodded in agreement, and together we boarded the ship.

    I found a seat by the window, with Pyrrha beside me and Nora and Ren across from us. The engines revved, signaling our departure. As we took off, I turned to Pyrrha.

    "Did you manage to take care of everything you needed to?"

    She turned to me, her usual smile lighting up her face.

    "Yes, everything went smoothly. Thankfully, the transport of the wounded was handled without any issues, and no one is missing."

    I nodded, sharing her enthusiasm, but her words left me uneasy.

    The wounded? Missing people? What had she been dealing with?

    Looking around the hold, I noticed plenty of empty seats. At first, I thought they had just sent a ship that was too large. But then another thought struck me what if those seats were supposed to be filled? Almost half of the participants were missing.

    Taking a deep breath, I stared out the window at the shrinking forest below. This had been more than just an assignment to form teams it was our first test.

    They must have been watching us, grading us. And I realized¡­

    I might not have made it out of that forest on my own.

    This could have been my end.

 Wait, What?!

    The return journey passed surprisingly quickly. Pyrrha, sitting next to me, placed a hand on my shoulder and said, "Jaune, we''re here. It''s time to get off."

    Lost in thought, I didn''t react immediately. Only when she gently nudged my side did I realize it was time to leave the ship. Still dazed, I disembarked, my thoughts a swirling mess.

    Yes, I''d awakened my aura (though that was more thanks to Pyrrha than me). Yes, I''d defeated my first Grimm small and unimpressive, but still, a start. But Beacon wasn''t what I''d expected. I thought we''d be trained and equipped before facing real challenges. Instead, they threw us straight into the deep end: sink or swim.

    I knew forging my transcripts had been wrong, but it was too late to dwell on that now. I''d brewed this mess myself¡ªnow I had to drink it and hope I didn''t choke.

    The docking bay buzzed with energy. Students chatted excitedly, their voices blending into an overwhelming hum. But I barely noticed. My gaze drifted to the far-off towers of Beacon Academy, their spires piercing the clouds.

    Rest wasn¡¯t on the schedule. Without even a chance to shower or eat, we were herded into an assembly for roll call, where teams and their leaders would be announced.

    Pyrrha, Nora, Ren, and I stuck together. "If the faculty''s been watching, they¡¯ll see how well we work as a team," I said to Pyrrha, my voice carrying more hope than certainty. She gave me a small smile.

    "We¡¯ll be fine, Jaune. Trust yourself."

    The ceremony moved quickly. Students were called onto the stage, their captains announced, applause given. Eventually, I saw Cardin Winchester standing on stage with three others who looked just like him tall, muscular, and smug.Enjoying the story? Show your support by reading it on the official site.

    The announcement came.

    "Team CRDL. Cardin Winchester, captain."

    I groaned. "Of course. The universe officially has no sense of justice."

    Nora snorted. "You know he¡¯s going to make them carry his stuff, right?"

    Cardin was already puffing out his chest like a rooster in a barnyard, basking in the attention. Great.

    The next surprise was Ruby.

    "Team RWBY. Ruby Rose, captain."

    I blinked. For someone who started Beacon two years early, she never failed to amaze me. Her teammates beamed at her, Weiss giving a grudging nod of approval.

    Finally, my name was called. Just as we''d expected, I stood on stage with Pyrrha, Nora, and Ren. Our team was officially named JNPR. Relief washed over me. At least this part had gone as planned.

    I turned to Pyrrha, ready to say how thrilled I was to be on the same team and how perfect she¡¯d be as our captain. Then it happened.

    From the speakers, I heard, "And Jaune Arc is the captain!"

    Time stopped. My thoughts screeched to a halt like a cart hitting a brick wall.

    Pyrrha placed a reassuring hand on my shoulder. Her emerald eyes met mine, calm and steady.

    "You¡¯ve got this, Jaune. Leadership suits you more than you think. And you¡¯re never alone I¡¯ll help you whenever you need."

    Her words were kind, but I couldn¡¯t speak. This had to be a mistake¡ªor some cruel joke. Me? A captain? Impossible.

    My heart pounded in my ears as Director Ozpin approached, his cane tapping lightly against the stage floor. I hadn¡¯t even noticed him moving until he was suddenly in front of me, his hand extended. Reflexively, I shook it, though my grip was weak.

    His calm, measured voice cut through my panic.

    "Congratulations, Mr. Arc. I have high hopes for you. However, I imagine you might be feeling..."

    He paused, his piercing gaze weighing on me. The silence stretched, his words hanging unfinished. My breath caught in my throat.

    Finally, he continued,

    "...anxiety and confusion. I assure you, we¡¯ll address these concerns. By the way, I¡¯d like to invite you to my office tomorrow. I believe we have much to discuss. Does that sound fair?"

    I nodded numbly. My legs felt like jelly, my mind spinning. Pyrrha¡¯s hand on my shoulder was the only thing keeping me grounded.

 Diamond

    I stood in front of Director Ozpin''s office, my nerves on edge. Who wouldn''t be, given the situation? Taking a deep breath, I knocked.

    "Welcome," came the familiar voice, as cold and composed as ever.

    The office was both elegant and understated. A massive wooden desk dominated the center of the room, and behind it sat the Headmaster himself. I walked in confidently, determined not to show my nerves.

    I stopped in front of the desk, ready to speak, but Ozpin beat me to it.

    "Hello, Mr. Arc. Glad you arrived. Please, have a seat. I''ll be with you in a moment." His gaze didn¡¯t lift from the document in his hands.

    I sat down, trying to reassess my situation. This was undoubtedly about my appointment as team captain¡ªa decision I still believed to be a mistake. Maybe I could convince Ozpin to reconsider and appoint Pyrrha instead. It was so obvious she was the better choice. Why hadn¡¯t she been made captain in the first place?

    Ozpin sighed, signing the document he¡¯d been engrossed in before setting it aside. Finally, he looked at me.

    "So, you''re probably curious about the reason for our meeting today, aren''t you?"

    His gaze was sharp, piercing, and unyielding. I swallowed hard before responding.

    "It''s probably about the decision to appoint me as captain. I must say I''m honored by the trust, but I''d like to ask you to reconsider"

    Ozpin interrupted by taking a slow sip of his coffee, his eyes fixed on the cup. After a moment, he set it down and asked in his usual calm tone:Love this novel? Read it on Royal Road to ensure the author gets credit.

    "Do you consider the decision a mistake?"

    I had expected this question and had prepared my answer.

    "Well, sir, I''m part of a team with three amazing people, at least one of whom is far better suited for the role Pyrrha Nikos." I paused, waiting for his reaction, but he simply took another sip of his coffee.

    Encouraged by his silence, I continued. "Pyrrha has an incredible record of achievements, which I''m sure you''re aware of. Even in the short time I''ve known her, she''s earned my full trust and respect. I truly believe she''s the obvious choice for team captain."

    Ozpin¡¯s expression didn¡¯t waver. He seemed detached, as though his thoughts were miles away. Then, unexpectedly, he smiled¡ªa rare and startling sight.

    "It''s interesting," he said, his tone still cold. "A student who hasn''t even started his training already accuses his Headmaster of making mistakes. I haven''t encountered that in quite some time."

    My mind went blank. Did I just make things worse? Should I defend myself?

    Fortunately, Ozpin didn¡¯t wait for a response. "Don''t worry so much, Mr. Arc. It''s just a little joke."

    A little joke? I nearly had a heart attack!

    "Tell me, Mr. Arc, do you know how diamonds are made?"

    The question seemed entirely out of place, but I answered anyway. "They''re formed from coal under intense pressure and heat."

    "Don''t forget time," he added. "It takes millions of years for a diamond to form."

    I nodded in agreement.

    "Now, I have a riddle for you. Are you ready?"

    Riddles weren¡¯t exactly my strong suit, but I nodded again, sensing I had little choice.

    "Consider this: if a diamond is exposed to much higher pressure and temperature, will the process accelerate, or will the diamond crumble into dust?"

    I hesitated. I didn¡¯t know the answer, and my uncertainty must have been written all over my face.

    Ozpin gave a faint smile. "If you don''t know, that''s perfectly fine. You see, I believe every diamond is unique. Each requires different conditions to reach its final form. And even then, an experienced craftsman is needed to cut it and reveal its true brilliance."

    His words hung in the air, and I nodded slowly. There was wisdom in what he said, though I suspected this wasn¡¯t really about diamonds at all.

 He knows

    After leaving Director Ozpin''s office, I felt more confused than ever. Logic dictated that I should head to the dormitory to meet with my team, discuss important topics, and start acting like the captain I''d been appointed to be. Instead, I found myself wandering aimlessly until I ended up in the park.

    I sat on a bench facing a fountain, the gentle spray of water sparkling in the light. My gaze locked onto it, though my mind was elsewhere, swirling with chaotic thoughts. Memories of the forest¡ªour first trial merged with anxious visions of what the future might hold. The weight of my family''s expectations crept in as well. Were they thinking about me? Were they proud of what I''d done?

    Then, like a bolt of lightning out of a clear sky, the truth struck me. No, it wasn''t sudden. Deep down, I''d known it since I left his office. I just hadn''t wanted to admit it.Reading on this site? This novel is published elsewhere. Support the author by seeking out the original.

    "He knows," I whispered to myself, the words sending a chill down my spine. I shivered, cold sweat dripping down my back as I felt the weight of realization settle in.

    "What''s he up to? If he knows how I got here... knows I faked my way into Beacon... why didn''t he send me back? And why would he make me captain?!"

    The questions tumbled out, unbidden and frantic. I didn''t realize I''d spoken aloud until I noticed a boy and a girl passing by. They slowed, glancing at me with raised eyebrows before quickening their pace.

    Great. Now I''m sitting here talking to myself like a madman. Perfect.

    I sank back against the bench, staring blankly at the fountain as its rhythmic splashes punctuated the silence.

    "What was Ozpin''s game?" I muttered under my breath, my voice low and strained. He had to have a plan¡ªsome reason for letting me stay, for making me a leader of all things.

    But what?

    And what was I supposed to do in the meantime?

 Request

    "Hey, do you have a moment?" Pyrrha lifted her gaze from the book and looked at me. "Sure, what''s up?"

    I had exactly what I wanted to say prepared, but now, as our eyes met, I felt a blankness in my mind. I didn''t know if it was because I was afraid my secret would be revealed or if it was simply because of Pyrrha herself. A tense silence followed, broken by laughter.

    "Haha, don''t tell me you still can''t get used to the fact that we share a room?"

    I felt myself starting to blush. "I think this wasn''t the best way we could have been assigned rooms," as soon as I said it, I regretted it and immediately tried to clarify what I meant. "Of course, I don''t mind sharing a room with you, Ren, or Nora. I just think it was irresponsible on the part of the administration."

    Pyrrha got up from the bed and started walking around the room. She didn''t seem upset, but rather disappointed? Great, I thought to myself. "Jaune, I noticed that whenever we leave, you leave the window slightly open." This was true, but I didn''t understand the sudden change of topic. "Nora, on the other hand, tends to leave quite a mess that Ren has to clean up."

    I nodded in agreement. "It would be good to talk to her about that, but since Ren doesn''t mind, I''m not sure if it''s my place to interfere in their relationship."

    Pyrrha took a few steps closer to me and now stood right in front of me. "Exactly, you don''t know what actions to take... YET." I felt like I was starting to understand less and less. "We''ve only been living together for a week, so it''s understandable that we don''t know how to act in every situation that arises... FOR NOW." I think I was slowly starting to get what Pyrrha was getting at. "However, in a few weeks, we''ll be better at understanding the behaviors and actions of our teammates. What will that give us?"This book''s true home is on another platform. Check it out there for the real experience.

    What will that give us? I looked up at the ceiling as if searching for the answer there, and after a moment of thought, I found it. "Cooperation. We''ll be able to work better together as a team."

    Pyrrha seemed pleased with the conclusions I had drawn; I could tell by the smile on her face. "Exactly, great job, Captain." I winced at her comment, though I think she meant it kindly and not sarcastically. "I still think the role should have gone to you. You''d definitely be better suited for it."

    She shook her head in disagreement, and she was about to say something, but I was quicker. "But you''re an amazing person. I know you would have been a great captain."

    A silence fell over the room, and all I could hear was the buzz of a fly in the corner. I also noticed that a slight blush appeared on Pyrrha''s face. Could it be that, deep down, she was a shy girl who didn''t like compliments?

    "Thank you, that''s nice of you to say. So, what exactly did you want to ask me?"

    Right, back to the point. "I''d like to ask for your help with training."

    Pyrrha''s face lit up with a familiar smile. "Of course, I''d be happy to."

    I felt a wave of relief. "If possible, could you not tell the rest of the team about this? Also, I''d like to practice in a secluded spot, if that''s alright."

    Pyrrha began walking around the room, her right hand resting on her chin, and slight wrinkles appeared on her forehead. Suddenly, she stopped and clapped her hands together. "Behind the practical training hall, there''s a stone wall, and beyond that, there''s a small clearing with a few bushes and trees. Would that work?"

    I nodded in agreement. "Alright, let''s start tomorrow. Let''s meet there after class, okay?"

    I was filled with excitement and energy, and I probably spoke too quickly.

    "In that case, we''re set."

 Training

    It was quite a pleasant place. There was plenty of space, a lone tree casting a shadow, and most importantly, no one around. Pyrra began warming up, and not wanting to fall behind, I took up a combat stance. I threw slow, methodical strikes at first, but after a moment, my movements began to speed up. A downward cut, a block, a turn, and a diagonal strike. Sweat poured down my forehead, and my muscles reminded me just how out of practice I was.

    During a brief break, I glanced over at Pyrra. She was stretching, effortlessly doing the splits as if it were the most natural thing in the world. My sisters, who practiced dance, always complained about this move. But for Pyrra... it was as simple as a warm-up.

    When our eyes met, she stood up with a smile and walked over. I cursed under my breath¡ª instead of focusing on training, I had been staring at my friend. What must she think of me?

    "So, are you ready?" she asked lightly.

    I wiped the sweat from my forehead with my sleeve, adjusted my shield, and replied, "Ready and set."

    Pyrra fixed her hair and moved back about ten meters. I took a defensive stance, waiting for her next move. My sword, a family heirloom, was solid but outdated. It could really use an upgrade. Pyrra, however, was holding her spear and shield confidently. Her weapon was impressive¡ªmultifunctional, capable of shifting from a spear to a short sword, even a rifle. My shield felt like a relic in comparison.

    She took a deep breath and shot me a quick glance. "Let''s begin."

    And just like that, she charged. Fast as a storm, her spear thrust toward me. I barely managed to raise my shield in time, but the force of the strike nearly knocked it from my hand. Worse still, before I could react, she had already shifted and attacked from a different angle. I blocked again, but it felt like my shield and shoulder were moments away from breaking.The story has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the violation.

    I tried to focus. When I finally managed to sidestep, I swung at her arm. But she anticipated it¡ªshe gracefully moved back, as if my strike were nothing more than a gust of wind.

    "Not bad, but too slow," she said with a smile.

    Too slow? Was she doing this on purpose? I clenched my teeth, tightened my grip on the hilt, and launched another attack. This time, I tried to be more unpredictable¡ªstriking from different angles, varying the tempo. But Pyrra... she was a shadow. Blocking, dodging, evading¡ªall while wearing that smile as if to say, "Good, but you can do better."

    Eventually, she took the initiative again. Swift and decisive, she alternated between attacks with her spear and her shield. My arms began to shake with exhaustion, and each blocked strike forced me to retreat even further.

    Then, for a brief moment, I managed something I could be proud of: I blocked her spear and tried to push her back with my shield. For a split second, it seemed like I might have gained control. But Pyrra... well, she was Pyrra. With a quick spin, her shield slammed into my side. I lost my balance, my aura flickered and shattered, and before I could recover, I felt the cold press of her spear against my chest. The next thing I knew, I was on the ground, staring at the sky.

    For a moment, I couldn''t catch my breath. My thoughts raced: "Well, that''s great... the gap really is that big, huh?"

    "I must admit, not bad, Jaune!" she said.

    I lifted my head and saw her offering me a hand. I took it, though I felt more embarrassed than tired.

    "I wanted to give you a head start," I said, trying to cover up my defeat with a joke.

    "Of course, Captain," she replied with a laugh, as though she knew I was bluffing.

    I looked at her with genuine admiration. She was incredible¡ªfast, precise, and yet she somehow made even losing feel less bitter. I knew one thing: if I ever hoped to keep up with her, I would need to train twice as hard. But with a teacher like her, at least I had a chance.

 Blondies Challenge

    Everything hurts. Even muscles I didn''t know I had are sore. Pyrrha really pushes me to my limits. Thankfully, we don''t have training today, so I''m planning to go to bed early. But before that, I should go over the material from this week. And maybe... maybe I''ll try talking to Weiss again? As they say, seventh time''s the charm.

    Suddenly, I felt a tug from behind. I barely managed to keep my balance, and in front of me stood none other than Cardin Winchester.

    "Blondie!" he called out, "I thought it was you. How''s it going, buddy?"

    He stood up straight, puffing out his chest proudly, with that annoying smirk on his face.

    "Jaune. My name is Jaune," I corrected him quietly.

    A look of surprise mixed with amusement crossed his face.

    "What''s that you''re mumbling, Blondie? I can''t hear you! You''ll have to speak louder!" He laughed.

    He slapped me on the back so hard that I stumbled again.

    "Well, no big deal, little guy. But tell me, why do you look so tired? I saw you nearly falling asleep in class."A case of theft: this story is not rightfully on Amazon; if you spot it, report the violation.

    It had been hard to focus today, and my eyes kept closing, but I didn''t realize it was that obvious.

    "Thanks for your concern, but I''m fine," I said, trying to end the conversation.

    Just as I was about to walk away, Cardin spoke up again.

    "Been up all night playing with dolls? Or reading some romance novel that''s keeping you up?"

    I froze. I should''ve just walked away, but something inside me wouldn''t let me.

    "I''m training."

    Cardin''s expression turned serious as he took a step closer.

    "Well, I didn''t expect that."

    His stupid grin was getting more and more annoying.

    "Got anything else to say to me?" I asked, trying to stay calm.

    His hand went to his chin, and his eyes narrowed as if he was deep in thought. I wasn''t sure whether he was trying to be funny or actually considering something.

    "Actually, yeah. There''s one thing." His face suddenly became more intense. "What do you say to a FRIENDLY SPAR?"

    I felt my whole body tense. I knew what I was about to do was stupid, but I couldn''t help it.

    "Sure, I''m up for it. Where and when?"

    I had a brief moment of triumph. Cardin definitely didn''t expect this. He looked a bit confused for a second, but quickly regained his confidence.

    "Tonight at 6:00 PM, in training room number four."

    I nodded, and we looked at each other for a moment before turning away and heading in opposite directions. As I was walking towards the stairs, I heard him shout after me.

    "Just don''t stand me up, Blondie!"

 Broken teeth

    I arrived at the place twenty minutes before the scheduled time. I wanted to warm up and clear my mind. However, the second  was more difficult because my team decided to show up and cheer for me. It was nice, really, but... it''s hard to focus when you hear Nora''s constant shouting in the background.

    Cardin was already there too. He stood with his team, but unlike me, he wasn''t warming up at all. He was just chatting and joking, as if what was about to happen didn''t concern him at all. Is he really that confident? I hope he''ll be surprised. Thanks to the training with Pyrrha, I''ve definitely improved... but is it enough to beat him? NO. I can''t doubt it now. I''ve accepted the challenge, and I''m going to meet it. Besides, it''s just a sparring match. It''s happening on school grounds. What''s the worst that could happen?

    The clock on the wall showed there were two minutes left before the start. I stepped into the center of the arena. Cardin did the same, swinging his weapon as if he wanted to scare me.

    "Wow, Blondie! You actually showed up. I''m shocked."

    Of course, he said it with that annoying smirk on his face.

    "Unlike some, I was raised well. And that means I keep my word."

    Cardin took a quick step toward me and swung his mace, aiming directly at my head. He was fast too fast for someone in armor wielding a big chunk of metal. He didn''t strike, though. He stopped his weapon just in front of my face.

    "You''d better reinforce your aura, Blondie. I wouldn''t want to end this with a single blow."

    He said, then turned his back and took a few steps to wave at his team.

    "Don''t let him intimidate you, captain! Wipe that stupid grin off his face!" Of course, that was Nora, cheering me on with her usual enthusiasm. She even had pom-poms. Where did she get them? No idea.

    Ren, as always, remained calm. When he saw me looking at him, he raised his hand and gave me a thumbs-up. Pyrrha was there too. She waved at me, and it seemed like she wanted to say something, but just then the gong sounded.

    The clock on the wall stopped counting down time and started a fifteen-second countdown.

    Cardin turned toward me and assumed a fighting stance. I did the same, raising my shield. I prepared to thrust from behind the cover. I focused on my aura, strengthening it.The author''s tale has been misappropriated; report any instances of this story on Amazon.

    Suddenly, I heard the second gong.

    Cardin immediately charged forward. He didn''t waste time with any formalities or testing the opponent. He ran toward me, swinging his mace, and every step he took felt heavy and sure.

    I reacted instinctively, raising my shield and trying to turn to the side to avoid giving him a full surface to strike. That was my mistake. Cardin easily predicted my move. Instead of attacking straight on, he made a quick feint to the side and swung wide. His mace hit my side with a loud thud, and the force of the blow was so great that I almost fell, but my aura flared up, absorbing most of the impact.

    "Is that all you''ve got, Blondie?" he called with a mocking tone, stepping back a step. His voice was full of confidence, as if he had already won.

    I ignored his words and focused on the fight. I tried to counterattack. I thrust my sword quickly toward his chest, hoping to catch him off guard. Unfortunately, Cardin easily blocked the strike, using his mace like a shield. Before I could react, he twisted his weapon in his hands and, with the end like a spear, jabbed me in the side, forcing me to step back.

    Every one of his blows was heavy. Each one required more focus and effort to defend against. I could feel my aura weakening with every second, as if it was starting to crack under the pressure of his attacks.

    "Come on, Jaune! Don''t let him!" I heard Nora shout, but I couldn''t focus on her. Cardin was pressing more and more. With each strike, I felt like I was losing control.

    At one point, I noticed a gap in his stance. I gathered all my strength and decided to take a risk. I spun around, dodging his next swing, and thrust my sword straight into the exposed part. The hit landed, but... nothing happened. His aura was still intact. He looked at me as if to say Is that all you''ve got?

    "Not bad, Blondie. But now it''s my turn."

    Before I could prepare, Cardin swung with full force. His mace hit my shield, then again, and again, until I felt my arms starting to tremble. I couldn''t take it anymore. The final strike hit me square in the side. I staggered, and before I could rise, I felt his mace strike me in the back. My aura flared brightly for a second, then... it shattered.

    It felt like the whole world slowed down for a moment. My body suddenly felt much heavier. Without aura, every strike would hurt a lot more. I needed to restore it, gather my thoughts, get up, and counterattack, but it no longer mattered because Cardin was already above me.

    "Something wrong? You look like you''ve had enough."

    I tried to get up, but before I could, I felt a powerful punch straight to my face. The pain was instant and sharp. Something cracked, and I felt something hard fall out of my mouth.

    I fell to the ground, gasping for air. I didn''t have the strength to rise. Cardin stood over me, holding his mace in one hand and looking at me with a triumphant smile.

    "And that would be that. You''d better ask your team for help, Blondie. You look like you need it."

    I didn''t have the strength to respond, that was the end, and then I felt someone from my team, probably Ren, helping me up. My head was heavy, and the pain in my jaw wouldn''t let me speak. I knew one thing: Cardin won, and with brutal dominance.