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—now 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.

Stolen novel; please report.

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—or 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.