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by MrBig5

by MrBig5

Chapter 4: Grudging Respect

Sunlight filtered through the trees, casting dappled shadows across the training grounds. Team RWBY stood in a loose circle, their weapons at the ready. Spike leaned against a tree, watching with his characteristic nonchalance.

"We need to work on coordination," Ruby announced, her determined tone cutting through the air. "We've faced tougher foes before, but we can't afford to be sloppy."

Spike's eyebrow lifted as he observed the girls, their expressions focused and determined. He had to admit, their dedication was impressive. He pushed himself off the tree, stepping into the training circle.

"Mind if I join in?" he asked casually, glancing at Ruby.

Ruby's silver eyes widened in surprise. "Uh, sure. But we've got our own fighting style—"

Spike cut her off with a grin. "No worries, I'm just here to help."

Yang smirked, her tone playful. "Guess we'll see if you're as good as you say."

Spike cracked his knuckles, his movements fluid. "Well, let's not keep the Grimm waiting."

The training session began, and Spike moved with a blend of grace and precision that was unmistakably his. His punches were calculated, his kicks executed with finesse. He flowed seamlessly between offense and defense, his body a symphony of controlled power.

Weiss watched with raised eyebrows, her skepticism giving way to genuine interest. As Spike demonstrated a flawless dodge, Weiss couldn't help but mutter under her breath, "Impressive."

Ruby's eyes were wide as saucers, her initial skepticism replaced by a mixture of awe and determination. She couldn't deny that Spike's combat skills were unlike anything she'd seen before.

Spike's movements drew the attention of Blake, who studied him with analytical eyes. His strikes were clean, his footwork impeccable. She mentally noted his techniques, seeing how they could be integrated into their own style.

Yang exchanged a glance with Weiss, a silent understanding passing between them. Spike's skills were undeniable, and their initial doubts had been thoroughly quelled.

As the training session continued, Spike's interactions with the team became less about proving himself and more about working together. He showed Ruby how to capitalize on her speed, helped Weiss refine her glyph techniques, sparred with Yang in an adrenaline-fueled brawl, and exchanged techniques with Blake that seamlessly merged his experiences with her own.

By the time the sun dipped below the horizon, leaving streaks of orange and purple across the sky, the team stood together, breathing heavily but triumphant.

Ruby grinned at Spike, her silver eyes reflecting a newfound respect. "You really are something, Spike."

Spike's lips curled into a satisfied smile. "And you girls aren't half bad yourselves."

Yang clapped him on the back. "You've definitely earned some points with us."

Weiss' tone was less guarded than before. "Your combat skills are undeniable."

Spike chuckled. "Well, now that we've got some mutual respect going, how about we get back to saving the world?"

The team shared a laugh, the bond between them growing stronger with each shared moment of training and understanding. As the stars began to twinkle in the night sky, Spike couldn't help but feel a sense of belonging—an unlikely part of a team that was rapidly becoming his new home in this unfamiliar world.