Looking around, Jaune found himself immersed in a scene straight out of a fairy tale. The streets buzzed with a lively energy, filled with townsfolk going about their daily lives. They moved with a purpose, their actions synchronized like a perfectly choreographed dance.
The townsfolk wore vibrant garments, adorned with rich colors and intricate patterns. The fabric fluttered gently in the breeze, painting the scene with a vivid palette of hues. Their faces were a reflection of contentment and belonging, as if they were all characters in a grand story, playing their roles to perfection.
Ansel thrived on the fusion of technology and magic, and it was evident in every corner of the town. Jaune's gaze was drawn to lampposts that emitted a soft, otherworldly glow. Their radiant light danced upon the cobblestone streets, casting mesmerizing patterns in every direction. It was as if the very essence of magic had been harnessed and interwoven with the fabric of everyday life in Ansel.
As Jaune ventured further into the heart of Ansel, he couldn't help but marvel at the intricate details that adorned the town. The buildings seemed to have sprung from the pages of a storybook, their facades adorned with delicate carvings and whimsical sculptures. Each structure had its own unique charm, with roofs that curved like the wings of birds and windows that sparkled like fragments of crystal.
The streets, lined with vibrant flower boxes, exuded a sweet fragrance that perfumed the air. Jaune found himself meandering through the bustling market square, where vendors displayed their wares with pride. The aroma of freshly baked pastries mingled with the scent of exotic spices, creating an intoxicating symphony of smells that teased his senses.
In the distance, Jaune's eyes caught sight of the imposing walls that encircled Ansel. Despite the town's size, the towering fortifications stood as a testament to the constant vigilance against the encroaching darkness. The walls, adorned with ancient runes of protection, served as a barrier to keep the inhabitants safe from the Grimm, those fearsome creatures that roamed the world beyond.
As Jaune continued his exploration, he noticed the presence of magitech woven seamlessly into everyday life. Magical runes adorned the doorways, imbuing them with an aura of protection and welcoming warmth. He glimpsed intricate mechanisms powered by a combination of magic and technology, as gears whirred and pulleys turned, seamlessly blending the mundane and the mystical.
Jaune's ears were serenaded by the harmonious melodies that filled the air. Street performers and musicians showcased their talents on every corner, their haunting melodies and lively tunes adding a touch of enchantment to the atmosphere. Children laughed and played in the town square, their joyous voices echoing through the narrow alleys and beckoning Jaune to join in their mirth.
As the sun began its descent, casting a golden hue over the town, Jaune couldn't help but feel a sense of awe and gratitude. Ansel was a place where imagination danced with reality, where the ordinary and the extraordinary seamlessly intertwined. With a renewed sense of wonder, Jaune continued his exploration, eager to uncover more of the magical secrets that lay hidden within the whimsical tapestry of Ansel.
Suddenly, just as Jaune strolled through the lively streets of Ansel, his stomach grumbled, reminding him of his hunger. He spotted a group of friendly townsfolk and approached them, asking for directions to a nearby tavern where he could grab a satisfying meal.
Following their guidance, Jaune found himself standing in front of a cozy-looking tavern. The wooden sign swung gently in the breeze, depicting a whimsical scene of woodland creatures frolicking. He stepped inside, immediately greeted by a comforting warmth and the enticing aroma of delicious food.
The tavern buzzed with cheerful conversations, laughter, and the melodies of a talented bard. Jaune settled at a table close to a crackling fireplace, taking in the cozy atmosphere. Glancing over the menu, his mouth watered at the descriptions of the various dishes, each one sounding more appetizing than the last.
Jaune made up his mind and ordered a generous portion of roasted chicken infused with aromatic herbs. It arrived on a platter alongside a medley of perfectly cooked seasonal vegetables. The sight of a freshly baked loaf of bread, crust golden and tempting, made his stomach grumble even louder. A steaming bowl of hearty stew completed the feast before him.
He wasted no time and dug into the meal, relishing the flavors that danced on his taste buds. The chicken was tender and succulent, complemented by the herbs that added a delightful twist. The vegetables offered a satisfying crunch and burst of freshness, while the bread was warm and inviting. The stew warmed him from the inside out, comforting and filling.
As Jaune savored each bite, he couldn't help but appreciate the decision he had made to bring his hard-earned savings with him. It had been a wise move, allowing him to enjoy this delicious feast without worry. He felt a sense of contentment, knowing that his resources were well-spent on this memorable meal.
Leaning back in his chair, Jaune took a moment to soak in the ambiance of the tavern. The crackling fire, the lively chatter, and the delicious aromas that lingered in the air created a comforting atmosphere that made him feel at ease. It was a reminder that sometimes, even in the midst of uncertainty, a good meal and the company of friendly faces could bring a sense of warmth and joy.
With a satisfied sigh, Jaune thanked the tavern staff for their hospitality and paid his bill, leaving a generous tip as a token of his appreciation. As he stepped back out onto the bustling streets of Ansel, he carried with him the memory of a meal that not only nourished his body but also uplifted his spirits. It was a small yet significant moment in his journey, a reminder of the simple pleasures and the value of thoughtful choices.
Satisfied and nourished from his meal, Jaune knew it was time to focus on acquiring a suitable weapon. As a swordsman, he needed a reliable blade to accompany him on his journey and though the training sword served him well, he needed a real blade if he was going to move forwards.
He took a moment to mentally count his Lien, making sure he had enough to purchase a decent sword. While he longed for one with powerful runic properties, he estimated that his budget would likely only allow for a well-crafted, non-magical blade.
Navigating through the bustling streets of Ansel, Jaune sought out the trades section of the town. Here, craftsmen displayed their wares, showcasing their skills in smithing, carpentry, and weaponry.
Entering the weapons stall, Jaune found himself surrounded by the symphony of clanging hammers and the rich scent of heated metal. A seasoned blacksmith glanced up from his work, his eyes squinting through the veil of smoke that swirled around him. He greeted Jaune with a nod, his hands still skilled in the art of crafting weapons despite the weariness etched on his face.
"Good day," The blacksmith grumbled, his voice weathered by years of working the forge. "Looking for a weapon, are you?"
Jaune nodded, his gaze fixed on the assortment of swords displayed before him. "Yes, I need a sword. A reliable one, if you have any. My budget probably can't stand one that has runic script engraved on it."
The blacksmith leaned on the counter, studying Jaune with a discerning eye. "Reliability without runes, aye? I can find ye a sturdy piece, but rune blades are the best work around here. Blades without em' can only last so long against the grimm."
Understanding the limitations of his budget, Jaune nodded in agreement. "I understand but I just don't have the funds for one currently. Perhaps another time, once I've made some cash."
The blacksmith nodded approvingly, a hint of respect in his eyes. "Aye, so be it lad. Let's find ye a blade that'll match yer needs."
One by one, Jaune carefully examined the swords on display. The blacksmith offered insights into each one, highlighting their strengths and weaknesses. They discussed the intricacies of blade curvature, the balance between weight and maneuverability, and the importance of finding a weapon that suited Jaune's own style of combat.
Jaune picked up a sword, feeling its heft and studying the details etched into the blade. "What about this one? Its looks well crafted and pretty sturdy enough?"
The blacksmith nodded, his eyes filled with the wisdom of years spent honing his craft. "That one, lad, is a solid choice. It may not have any of the flashiest enchantments, but it's forged with care. Dependable. Trustworthy."
Jaune nodded, a sense of assurance washing over him. "I like that. Dependable and trustworthy. That's what I'm looking for."
The blacksmith smiled, a faint glimmer of pride in his weary eyes. "Aye, lad, sometimes the simplest things can be the most reliable. I'll make ye a fair deal for that blade. I can see it in yer eyes, the determination to make it count."
After some negotiation, Jaune exchanged his hard-earned Lien for the chosen sword. He thanked the blacksmith, grateful for the knowledge shared and the craftsmanship that had gone into his new weapon.
As Jaune left the stall, his fingers tightened around the hilt of his new sword, a sense of purpose filling his being. The dialogue with the blacksmith echoed in his mind, a reminder that true strength came not only from the sword itself but also from the skill and resolve of the one who wielded it.
With each step he took away from the trades section of Ansel, Jaune felt a newfound confidence. He knew that his blade, though lacking magical properties, was a symbol of his commitment and determination. It was a weapon that would serve him faithfully, standing as a testament to his own growth and prowess as a swordsman.
His attention was then drawn to the sky overhead. The vibrant hues of daylight were gradually giving way to the warm embrace of dusk. The setting sun cast a golden glow over the rooftops, creating a serene and captivating ambiance.
Observing the darkening sky, Jaune realized that time was slipping away faster than he had anticipated. The realization struck him that embarking on his journey in the fading light of evening would be unwise. Getting lost in unfamiliar terrain under the cover of night would only impede his progress and increase the risks he might encounter.
With a practical mindset, Jaune made the decision to delay his departure until the following morning. It was a prudent choice, allowing him ample time to rest, gather supplies, and familiarize himself with the route he would take.
As he strolled through the streets of Ansel, he couldn't help but notice the town transforming. The once bustling thoroughfares gradually quieted, as the townsfolk sought the comfort of their homes, leaving the nocturnal world to emerge. Lanterns were being lit, their warm glow casting gentle shadows along the cobblestone streets.
Jaune's footsteps echoed in the hushed atmosphere as he made his way to an inn where he secured a room for the night. The innkeeper greeted him warmly, providing him with a key and offering suggestions for places to visit in the town.
Inside his room, Jaune unpacked his belongings, carefully placing his newly acquired sword next to the bed. He glanced out the window, where the first stars began to twinkle in the indigo sky. The tranquility of the town settled around him, its charm and peacefulness soothing his weary spirit.
As the night deepened, Jaune reflected on the events of the day. He felt a mix of anticipation and caution, aware of the challenges that lay ahead. The decision to delay his departure until morning reinforced his commitment to approach his journey with careful consideration and strategic planning.
Climbing into the comfort of his bed Jaune briefly focused his mind onto his status.
...
Jaune Arc
Level 4
Swordsman(EX)
...
Str: 26
Con: 25
Agi: 31
Int: 15
Wis: 16
Wil: 8
...
Aur: 2
...
"Got to work really hard on my way to Vale. Entrance into beacon starts only from level 10 and am not even half way there. I just hope I don't bite off more than I can chew.... although... I'm going to have to explore the functionality and abilities that come with Aura."
Jaune spoke softly to himself.
In the original show Aura had many properties, allowing a veritable amount of abilities to spawn forth. In addition to that, semblances were also a factor.
Jaune couldn't help but wonder if he would discover his own semblance.
With but a thought, Jaune pulled up his skill screen.
...
===
Passive
===
[Sword Talent]
Allows better instinctive handling of all forms of sword type weapons.
...
===
Active
===
[Cross Sectional Slash}
...
As he reflected on his first skill, the Sword Talent, a small smile crept onto his face. This skill had been his first taste of the extraordinary abilities that awaited him on his journey. It was a fundamental skill that laid the foundation for his growth as a warrior.
The Sword Talent granted him a natural affinity for wielding swords, making him more adept at handling the weapon than others without the skill. The moment he had received it, he felt an inexplicable connection with the blade, as if it had become an extension of his own body. It was as if years of muscles memory had been condensed into a single skill, granting him a head start on his path to mastery.
With the Sword Talent, his strikes became swift and precise, each swing cutting through the air with an elegant grace. He could feel the weight of the sword in his hand, the balance, and the way it responded to his every movement. It was almost as if the sword itself had come alive, guiding him in battle.
The skill didn't just enhance his physical abilities, but also sharpened his instincts. His senses became finely attuned to his surroundings, enabling him to anticipate his opponent's moves with uncanny accuracy. It was as if time slowed down whenever he engaged in combat, allowing him to react swiftly and effectively.
But the true beauty of the Sword Talent was its potential for growth. While it provided a solid foundation, it was only the beginning of his journey. As he trained and honed his skills, this talent would evolve and unlock even greater abilities. He could envision himself mastering advanced techniques, executing dazzling swordplay, and becoming a true virtuoso with the blade.
With the smile still lingering on his lips, he realized that this skill was just the beginning of an incredible adventure. The Sword Talent had opened the door to a world of possibilities, and he was eager to step through and discover the full extent of his potential.
.
.
[Sword Talent]
Allows better instinctive handling of all forms of sword type weapons.
.
.
As Jaune contemplated his current situation, a sense of restlessness crept into his thoughts. While the Sword Talent had served him well, he couldn't shake the desire for a significant power spike that would propel him further on his journey. Level 5 held the promise of a new skill, an opportunity for growth and expansion beyond his current capabilities.
He let out a sigh, the weight of uncertainty pressing upon him. Was he making the right choices? Should he continue down this dangerous path? Doubt began to cloud his mind, questioning whether he had chosen the right path for his future.
Gazing up at the ceiling, Jaune found solace in the quiet moments of introspection. The steady rhythm of his breathing brought a sense of calm, allowing him to focus and reassess his goals. He reminded himself of his passion for combat, the thrill of engaging in battles, and the satisfaction of seeing his skills improve.
While doubts lingered, Jaune knew deep down that he possessed the determination and drive to overcome any challenges that lay ahead. He had come this far, honing his in a way that didn't make him powerless.
The choices he had made, though questionable were based on his own intuition and aspirations. After all, answers were not going to present themselves if you were to weak to take them on your own.
With renewed resolve, Jaune pushed aside the uncertainty and embraced the unknown. Every decision he had made had brought him to this point, and he had no choice but to trust in his instincts and believe in his abilities. The path he had chosen might not always be clear, but he was determined to forge his own destiny.
Moments later, Jaune closed his eyes, his mind filled with the images of Ansel's enchanting streets and the possibilities that awaited him beyond its protective walls. He drifted into a restful slumber, knowing that when the sun rose again, he would be ready to embark on his grand adventure with a clear mind and a well-rested body.