As It Turns Out 06

"So, what did you want to talk about sir?"

The general nodded. "Very well, let's get straight to the point. I would like you to join Atlas Academy."

"Ah." So it was just another offer to become a Huntsman? "I'm not really interested, sorry." Even if he did join an academy, it would probably be Beacon, since he already lived in Vale. Also, his wives were attending it.

Ironwood raised an eyebrow. "That's what I have been lead to believe, but I see you have been training with your..." What would the appropriate way to say this be? "Spouses."

A sigh escaped Elroy's mouth. "Yeah, but it's more for self-defense than anything. I'm not really built for a career as a Huntsman, if I'm being honest." He didn't have that it that was necessary to excel.

Ironwood chuckled. "Not built for it? And next you will tell me that Ozpin is planning to retire."

Elroy frowned. "I'm serious, sir." Also, what was the problem with Ozpin retiring? "When I was a kid, I took a punch to the face and immediately started crying. That's my entire experience with combat."

Meanwhile, someone like Ruby had been training since she could walk. Not to say he wouldn't be able to make as a Huntsman eventually, but he would never reach the peaks that the true elite could. It was like how gymnasts had to start at absurdly young ages if they really wanted to be good.

And this was not even considering the fact that quite frankly, Elroy would just not feel comfortable staring a big ass black wolf in the face. He would freeze. He would die.

Ironwood's eyes widened. "You are genuinely serious?" The general seemed shocked, as if he had just watched something impossible.

Elroy didn't get it. "Yeah... I will repeat it. I'm not built to be a Huntsman."

Ironwood burst out laughing. "You, not built for... Ridiculous, just ridiculous." He shook his head. "Quite frankly, you were born to be a Huntsman. And not just any Huntsman, the Huntsman. The type that defines the future of the next century."

Elroy gasped. "That's a bit of an exaggeration!" More like a massive exaggeration, really.

Ironwood shook his head. "It is not, but I don't blame you for thinking that way. You're a civilian after all, one who only understands the world of Huntsmen through what you see on the TV." Through propaganda.

"I must make something very clear... the world of Huntsmen is not fair. One may train as hard as they wish, they may hone their combat ability as much as they want... but they may be completely eclipsed by a man who simply lucked his way into a good Semblance." It just was what it was.

One could argue it was bad, and James would most likely agree. In the end however, he could not control how souls functioned. And while technology was quickly growing, and evening the playing field, some Semblaces simply could not be matched.

For example... "My Semblance gives me greater focus, but causes me to get tunnel vision. Meanwhile, Glynda Goodwitch, a teacher here, has telekinesis. We are both skilled fighters, but the divide was made clear long ago."

And there were more examples he could think about. Ozpin's old pet bird turned traitor, Raven, could literally teleport across all of Remnant as long as she had a anchor on her destination, meanwhile her brother had permanent bad luck which he could never turn off.

He put a hand on Elroy's shoulder. "And you, by all intents and purposes have four Semblances, with the possibility of obtaining more." Not only by awakening his, but also by finding more compatible people.

"And that's not to mention how should your Aura ever fall into dangerous levels, you can always replenish it." With careful planning, he could basically never run out of it. "To be honest, skill and resolve can be instilled, even at your age, however, talent cannot. You, have talent in spades, even if not in the conventional sense."

Elroy looked down. "I... I can't really deny that..."

Ironwood took his hand off. "I understand that this is all very strange to you, but there's no need to worry. It's not like Atlas would waste you. Or abuse you." They would rather keep their super soldier happy and loyal of course.

"First of all, while in Atlas Academy, you would be personally taught by the greatest Huntsmen and Huntresses the kingdom has to offer." The Ace-Ops most likely. "Afterwards it would be your choice if you rather enter the military or work as a normal Huntsmen. However, I would have a contract made to guarantee some years of your service."

He continued. "Naturally, you would be paid for this. And I'm not just talking about a salary you would receive as a Huntsman. I'm willing to discuss a payment in the billions of lien."

Elroy's eyes widened. "W-why!? Why pay me to study!? And at that high of a price at that!?"

Ironwood waved him off. "Of course I would. Do not misunderstand, this is not free money. I'm trying to acquire a military asset. Think of it as me paying someone to develop a weapon, and then paying for maintenance in the coming years."

It would probably come out cheaper than developing Penny and the Paladins anyways...

He guessed the boy's surprise came from the fact that as he understood, Ozpin made no such offer. It was just like his old friend to play cautious and simply await for young man to have a change of heart. Ironwood was not like that however, he did not enjoy being in the defensive.

It was funny though. He had not expected Elroy to care for the money, he was married to Weiss Schnee! And while Jacques was... Jacques, he would love to brag about how his heir was married to the second coming of a legend.

Elroy scratched his cheek. "Are... four Semblances really worth that much?" This felt wrong.

Weiss had talked about how Jaune had lucked his way into Beacon due to a miracle. This felt like that, but a thousand times worse. Not to say Elroy was above accepting his luck, but it was certainly a damn shock to the system. He couldn't help, but wonder if the general was scamming himself.

"Yes, four Semblances... when in one body are worth that much." Especially since team RWBY had some powerful Semblances. "Not to mention how you could always develop your own Semblance... or get more."

Elroy raised an eyebrow. "You think I'm gonna somehow find more people capable of Soul Bonding with me?"

"It's always a possibility that luck smiles on you again, but I'm not talking about leaving it up to chance." He would not make such a mistake. "If you accept my offer and join Atlas Academy, I will make you touch every single student who has developed a Semblance. Every single teacher too."

"That also goes for any Huntsman or Huntress I am capable of calling up... Honestly, I would like if I could offer the same thing about Beacon, but Ozpin did not allow it." Something about privacy invasion. What a joke.

"And Semblances are not everything you bring to the table. There are your wives as well..." Though they were admittedly much less important. Still, it was said Marked fought perfectly side-by-side. "If any of them follow you to Atlas Academy, you will receive a bonus."

"And finally... there is the fact that the public would simply love you. You are the second coming of a hero, and that does wonders for morale." And that was important in this world infested by Grimm. "Elroy Reyne, Atlas needs you on the battlefield. Remnant does."

Elroy was at a loss for words. "This... is a lot to take-in." He wanted to say yes.

Why? Because of money of course. He would not accept handouts, but it was different if it was just a job he was being paid for. Still, could he really go around fighting Grimm and inspiring people!? He worked at a supermarket!

The general nodded. "I know. And I would not expect an answer now... I did mention contracts, so I'm sure you would rather have a lawyer on your side." One which Weiss Schnee would most likely provide.

Elroy let out a breath he didn't he was holding. "Okay then. I have to think more about this before giving a definitive answer, sorry." He needed to discuss it with his wives.

"Of course... Although, before we end this... I need to tell you something." It was wrong of him, James knew it, but he needed to do it nonetheless. "Do not believe you can avoid this life entirely. You may not take my offer. You may not join Beacon, but you will become a Huntsman."

"Life isn't fair, and this is the price the lucky ones must pay. You now have a burden, no, a purpose, Elroy Reyne."



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"Okay, so are we gonna adress the elephant in the room or not?" Yang spoke up.

He covered his face. "I guess we have to." The day had been weird after the discussion with Ironwood.

Training had gone just fine. Hanging out with team RWBY had gone just fine. However, the general's words were constantly repeating on his head. And since he told his wives, they had been definitely thinking about too.

Ruby stretched in bed. "Hey Weiss, how is Atlas Academy like? Did you ever visit it?"

Weiss frowned. "I have. It's a good place. A great place even! If Elroy attended it, he would undoubtedly become a great Huntsman!" But she did not know if she would be able to follow him there.

She could just live without seeing him for a bit though...! Yeah, as if.

Even now, she was hugging him as if her life depended on it. They had managed to come up with a temporary solution to the bed issue after all, by taking out all the mattresses and putting them side-by-side. Essentially making a massive, if uncomfortable, bed.

Elroy raised an eyebrow. "Why didn't you attend it then?" It would have surely been more convenient than coming all the way to Vale.

Weiss whimpered. "Because... I wanted a bit of freedom I suppose. I wouldn't get that if my father was so close." She was glad Ironwood had seemingly not told her father about her marriage.

She was still writing that letter, slowly, carefully. She needed more time.

Elroy sighed. "So you wouldn't like it there huh...?"

She shook her head. "N-no, I'm sure with you by my side I would love it!" Yes, she had decided. If he went, she would go too!

So she hugged him even tighter.

Blake interjected. "Do not let her description color your perception. Atlas Academy may be... a good school." She genuinely didn't know. "But the city of Atlas itself is awful. The rich living flying above the skies, while the poor exist in the city below." It was the most dystopian thing she had ever seen.

And she read a lot of dystopian books.

Weiss blushed. "Hey, who's trying to color his perception now!? The city of Atlas is certainly not the hell hole you seem to be describing!"

Blake rolled her eyes. "Am I really hearing this from a girl who lived in a mansion for almost her entire life?" Blake knew she was privileged too of course, but she had seen the world at this point. She knew how things worked.

Yang immediately raised her voice. "Wow, hold up there, panther! We are not escalating my hubbie asking about the benefits of an academy into you two having another cat fight about classism!" Next thing you knew Blake would run away again.

Weiss huffed. "Fine, but she started it."

Blake imitated her... with a mocking voice. "Fine, but she started it, I'm five." She went back to her normal sophisticated voice. "That's how you sound."

Elroy had to hold back a giggle. "You guys... sure are getting heated over this. But it's fine, let's drop the academy subject for today." It didn't matter in the end, that was not what he was trying to understand.

It was those words about purpose that had really struck him.

It was a bit strange for him of all people to hear those words. Growing up, he hadn't thought about shouldering any responsibilities besides somehow managing to survive. And he was happy that he pulled it off, content. There was nothing wrong with it.

Things had now changed however... "Hey, why did you all become Huntresses? I-If I can ask." It was a very personal question.

Yang shrugged. "Just seemed like a nice way to get some adventure and help people along the way... yeah." There was some hesitation in her voice, and it only grew as she spoke.

Blake's voice lacked any hesitation however. "There are many injustices in this world, I want to fix them. I won't accept anything less." Still, even if she sounded confident, he couldn't help, but think she was being as hesitant as Yang.

Weiss smiled. "It was just the natural path for me. I am a Schnee, and so I must excel. Once I figured out this was my talent, it was just the most natural path forward." So she joined it because of her family...?

Ruby yawned. "Eh. There's just nothing else I rather do." That was certainly something. "I wanna be a hero... So, what do you want to do, Elroy?"

"I..." He didn't really have the opportunity to think about that until now. "I think I need sometime to think before I answer that." But until then, should he lean on that purpose?

Silence descended on the room...

And then Yang spoke up. "By the way, before anyone decides to get freaky with each other, please remember that my sister is right here." And she was one of those people. Could she kick Ruby out without looking like a jerk?

"Yang!"



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Yang cleared her throat. "Welcome to the dance, partner!" She took him by the hand. "As you are astounded by the sights, please remember that Weiss and I organized everything, because our seniors are lazy."

Weiss put her hands on her hips. "They weren't being lazy, they got stuck on a mission." She was sure they were very hard working.

Yang waved her off. "Eh, excuses."

Ruby pouted. "I rather be on a mission than being here." She glared at her own high heels. "I hate these, I hate these so, so much." It had been a epic struggle to walk all the way here with these, and she was expected to dance using them!? Impossible.

Yang sighed. "Sorry sis, but you get used to them eventually. Just keep going."

Ruby grit her teeth. "I don't want to get used to them! It's gonna like... deform my feet! It's unfair that I have to use them!" She sent her husband a glance. "It's unfair, right!?" She was only here for him, so he better back her up!

He scratched his cheek. "I'm a guy, so I can't say..." A realization then hit him like a train. "Actually, those words might confirm that it's unfair. My bad Ruby."

The girl gasped. "I knew it!" She looked at Blake. "An injustice is happening to me, please save me!" It was her reason or whatever, right!?

Blake rolled her eyes. "Feel free to throw them out and walk barefooted. Technically nothing is stopping you." One might even say that the party would become better. Or funnier at least.

"You can be so cruel..." Why were all her teammates either some flavor of mean, or worse, her sister!?

"She can, but she's nice inside." Sun Wukong walked over, with Neptune by his side. "What's up everybody! I haven't seen you guys in a long time!" There was a bright smile on his face.

He aimed it at Elroy. "So, who are you? Friend of team RWBY? Name's Sun Wukong, by the way."

Elroy would like to respond normally, but... "Why aren't you wearing a shirt?" If he knew he could have saved money this way, he would have done it damn it!

He grinned. "Why would I wear a shirt?" A very compelling argument. "Anyways, this is my buddy, Neptune! He's cool, except for the times where he is unbelievably lame, like just the biggest loser in the planet, like—."

Neptune cut him off. "Sun, please stop." He walked over to Weiss. "Hello Snow Angel, I was looking for you, I was going to invite you to dance, but..."

Weiss silently walked over to Elroy, and hugged his arm. "This is my husband."

"H-huh?"

Elroy pointed at the Mark beneath his eyes. "I'm her husband." Why was he facing another guy hitting on his wife? Well, those were just the consequences of Weiss being as charming as she was, he supposed.

Neptune's jaw hit the floor. "B-but, what does that even mean—?"

Sun pulled him back. "Dude, that's her husband, be cool." He smiled at Blake. "So, do you wanna dance—."

Blake walked over to Elroy, and hugged his other arm. "This is my husband." This was team RWBY's new tactic. Apparently.

Sun winced for a second. "Oh." And then a smirk showed up on his face. "Then I guess I gotta go. Stay awesome, Blake!" A true badass knew when to retreat.

Neptune would normally understand that, but currently he was a bit too confused. "A-are you actually understanding what they're saying...?"

Sun shrugged. "It's not about understanding their words, it's about understanding their intent." They were hugging another guy's arm. Pretty clear information, no need to be a junior detectice to understand it. "Anyways, let's go." He began dragging Neptune out. "Bye everyone!"

Blake gave him a wave. "Bye Sun." She then muttered to herself. "Our talks are nice."

Elroy felt like being in Beacon was a constant never-ending trip. "So... who were those guys?"

A light smile appeared on Blake's face as she released his arm. "Sun is... a friend. He helped me through some tough times." She grinned. "And Neptune is this guy that Weiss is into." Oh?

Weiss too released his arm, scowling and sputtering at the same time. "T-that was before I met Elroy, a-and it was just a childish crush. N-not that there is anything wrong with Neptune, but my heart firmly belongs to—."

Elroy couldn't help it, he chuckled. "It's fine Weiss. I'm not gonna blame you for being with a guy in the past. That would be pretty hypocritical, I had my share of exes in the past too." None of them were this eccentric however.

Weiss was flailing her arms. "No, no, I'm serious, there was nothing between... us...?" Her eyes became cold. "What do you mean exes?"

"I mean... girls that I dated in the past?" He had been around the block.

Weiss' eye twitched. "I see. Could I learn more details about them, like their address for example?" For non-violent reasons of course.

Elroy tilted his head. "No...?" Just what had he walked into?

Yang interjected, contrary to Weiss' cold eyes, her eyes were blazing hot. Because they were literally red. "Oh please hubbie, we insist." She clenched her fists.

Elroy could only send a panicked look towards Blake, begging for help.

The faunus couldn't really do much though. "Sorry, you just opened overly day dreaming virgin's pandora's box, so now you have to deal with it." Even her embarassing comment was not enough to snap them out of it.

But Ruby's happy screech was maybe a hope of salvation. "Penny is here!" She pointed at some girl who was dancing alone... while surrounded by two Atlas soldiers.

Beacon truly was a trip.

Seriously, why was she being guarded by Atlas soldiers? He wanted to asssume it was because she came from some important family, but it's not Weiss had a security detail. Maybe her family had specific connections to the military?

Yang's eye twitched. "Not now Ruby, we are dealing with something important." Were they!?

Elroy desperately took this lifeline. "Who's Penny?" He tried to keep a calm voice, as if he wasn't surrounded by dangerous predators.

Ruby smiled from ear to ear. "She's a... normal girl!" Could she tell her husband about Penny's true nature? Well, it was probably better to ask Penny first. "And she's also my bestie, let's go talk with her!"

Weiss scrunched her eyebrows together, offended to her very core. "Excuse me, since when?"

Ruby grabbed his arm. "Some quantity of time." And with her speed, and way more grace than she had showed before, she carried him out.

Weiss shook her fist angrily, as if she was a grumpy old man. "This discussion... this discussions, are not over!" She would get to the bottom of this exe talk, and she would also deal with the other thing!

Elroy imagined the soldiers must have been quite confused at his and Ruby's sudden appearance. Sadly, he was too busy trying not to vomit to feel any pity for them.

Ruby waved at the girl. "Hey Penny!"

And Penny immediately stopped her... solo dance. "Salutations Ruby!" She walked over, giving the girl a hug. "It's so, so good to see you again!" She had dearly missed her bestie.

Ruby awkwardly tried escaping the hug, but it was way too tight. "Y-yeah, I'm happy to see you here too!" That was only natural! Penny was her replacement bestie, with the secondary purpose of creating envy in her bestie!

Penny released Ruby. "And you must be Elroy Reyne, Ruby's husband. I am happy to make your acquaintance."

"I'm happy to meet you too, Penny. Ruby has said good things about you." Like... five seconds ago.

Penny gasped. "She has...!? I am very happy to receive such praise!" She looked back at the girl. "Ruby, I shall now start praising you in secret to the people I hold affection towards as well."

Ruby was still catching her breath. "Right, I appreciate it... But how did you already know about Elroy?" She hadn't told Penny about him...

Penny's eyes widened. "I... heard it from a completely normal student!" She let out a hiccup right after it.

The truth is that she learned about him from general James Ironwood. Her orders towards him were clear, protect him if he was in danger near her, and prioritize his life over the life of other students.

And her second objective was... "By the way Elroy Reyne, have you heard about how amazing Atlas Academy is? I come from there. I enjoy it all the time!" She let out another hiccup. "Some of the time." There.

Her secondary objective was to incentivize him into going to Atlas Academy should the opportunity arise.

He hesitantly nodded. "Gotcha..." He could totally see through her. "Maybe I'll check out one day." He extended a hand.

"Yes. And you should also perhaps consider joining it, if someone were to give you the opportunity to do so!" She shook her hand. It was a sign that she was making progre—.

"Ugh...!" He felt it immediately.

That strange power running through his body, proving that Penny had Soul Bonded with him, except... normally that power would then concentrate in a single point. This time it didn't, it kept running around aimlessly for a few moments, looking for something that wasn't there.

It felt genuinely painful, even causing him to wince, and that pain only grew more and more on his hand. Eventually however, that power settled on his chest, covering his heart.

He took a step backwards. "That was...!" And looked at the hand he used to shake her hand. It had been burned, or at least every part that touched Penny was.

He looked at the girl. "Penny we...!"

"Shutting down." And she fell backwards, passing out.