Disclaimer: I don't own RWBY they are the rightful property of RoosterTeeth.
Italics are thoughts
Bold and Italics are flashbacks
**Communications scrolls and other devices
Chapter 9 Mission
(Time skip: two years later)
(Jaune age: 10)
(Location: kingdom border Vale Remnant)
The border was known to be the place with the most security. In every corner there was a member of the Vale military force this was because the chances of Grimm attack in the region were pretty high. Outside of the four kingdoms stood a large area known as the" Dead Lands" just as its name states it was a dessert barren wasteland with no life except for the immense amount of Grimm that resides in it. It was complete suicide to attempt to venture in there because there were just too many of the creatures that even the most experience hunters or huntresses wouldn't survive, so it was wise to never set foot there. Many have attempted to journey there and no one has ever returned alive to tell the tale. That was why the border of the kingdoms were at high risk to be attack by the evil creatures. There have been rumors that many powerful Grimm are in the Dead Lands some species that were new and never heard about, others that were made up who was just pure speculation.
Jaune was looking around seeing the military in almost everywhere. To think with all of the security the Grimm were able to come during the Vital tournament invasion. It proof there were too many of them for even the military to stop them, the odds were against them. Not wanting to get to that topic he smiled looking very eager because today was a special day he was on his first official mission with Summer. Of course he was ready with all the training he has done so he wasn't worried or scared. He had his gear his weapon Excalibur along with his new attire wearing a white open jacket with a blue vest with black cargo pants and blue boots. Summer gave him the compliment that he looks good in white and blue so he accepted to make the change of clothes. Noticing his left arm he was holding something folded, something very familiar. It was the shield that belongs to Crocea Mors he stood in thought gazing at the shield.
Jaune was in the middle of a heated sparring match with John using their wooden swords and wooden shields. At first the young Arc thought it was going to be easy with a shield, boy was he wrong. It seemed the head Arc was tougher with a shield than when he was just using a sword. Attacking him was hard, blocking his attacks was even harder and finding an opening on the man was impossible. The match lasted for a couple of minutes after it was done the blond boy was panting breaking a sweat. Taking a seat next to his father who offered him some water from his canteen the boy didn't hesitated to take a sip. There was a long silence as the both Arc were enjoying the cold refreshing taste of the liquid. Jaune knew he still had ways to go before he can stand toe to toe with his old man, he was slowly getting there. He was allowed to have another sip as the blond man took a glance at his son his performance was acceptable.
"Tell me Jaune what is the strongest weapon, the sword or the shield?"
"The shield" he replied quickly.
"Why?"
"Because with it you can protect yourself. Its use to guard against enemy attacks."
"True, but then again so is aura."
"I…." the young blond stood in thought his father was making a point what was the difference between the two" well aura gets depleted with each use but it replenish with time, the shield doesn't do that it can last longer."
"Not all shields are indestructible son. As strong as they are they can get as much as a dent. The answer is there is no difference between the two. Both aura and a shield can be use for defense and offense."
"Right...Wait offense? How can a shield-"
John hit him slightly with his shield" you can also attack with a shield. Don't forget about the shield bash, or maybe you did forget."
"Uh I…."
"It's all right son I can let it slide. You are still learning after all."
"I did forgot" Jaune felt stupid of course he should have remember when Pyrrha fights she uses her semblance to send her shield flying like a projectile weapon.
"We all make our mistakes nobody is perfect" John gave a chuckled.
It still surprised Jaune how much his father has changed at least his temper has. He could easily get irritated or bare mad from anything especially impatience. Now it seems he has taken some of that temper out of his system for good since he started training with him. The head Arc will laugh more often either from silly comments or just plain dumb ones a change for the better. Once he was a man he strives for anything but perfection now he was a man who was striving for what was best for his son. Again this was all because of Summer her presence in his life is what made the difference for his training and getting strong. What mattered to him the past has changed so he needed to make sure the future will change too.
"You told me you weren't worthy of Crocea Mors?"
"Yeah but I feel like I'm not ready to wield it yet. I have a new weapon and until I'm sure I have gotten strong enough I won't wield it."
"That sounds like an excuse to me. But I understand with a new weapon you don't need Crocea Mors. You may not need a sword but you still need a shield" John smiled spotting Joan arriving to the training dojo.
"Dad…."
"I know you will need this sweetie" the woman smiled handing him the folded shield that belongs to the heirloom sword.
"I do need a shield. It didn't felt right with only a sword" Jaune knew it was true he got used with fighting a sword and shield" besides I think four weapons are better than one."
"Don't ever forget Jaune. Crocea Mors is handed to successors of the Arc family and you my son are my successor. The blade is yours in title and name."
"Thanks dad now I know I can't disappoint you and the family."
"You won't son I know you won't."
"Well" Joan smiled at her son" if you're done with your father sweetie, it's my turn to step in for our sparring match."
"I wish you luck son, you're going to need it" John gave a smirk.
"I'm not scared whenever you're ready mom. Are we using our weapons or the wooden ones?"
"I'm feeling in a good mood I might go easy on you."
"Mom you never go easy on me, a big never" he smiled./
"He has you there honey" the head Arc gave a laugh.
"Just for that I won't show you any mercy" smirked the female Arc.
"Like you ever do" Jaune rolled his eyes reading his wooden weapon.
"I was right it's not the same without the shield."
"I'm surprised you don't look too excited as I thought. Its your first mission with me after all" Summer broke his thoughts.
"Just look at this place its crawling with the military. I feel like we're not needed here."
"Jaune huntsmen and huntresses are always needed anywhere no matter the threat. Whether they're Grimm or criminals we will be needed. We have a responsibility to protect the citizens of Remnant from any kind of threat, its our duty to protect the people."
"Yeah I know that its just with a place so heavily guarded I don't see the need of calling us to patrol this place."
"This is the border of Vale it should be heavily guarded. We never know when Grimm will be crossing over. This area has to always be on high alert."
"Okay I get that so why not build a wall like the one in my village? In Patron the wall surrounds the entire village and we have different members of the militia guarding the perimeter."
"Yes I agree that they should build a wall that surrounds all of Vale. But apparently the Vale council won't be happy with your idea because according to them it will" cost a lot" and that's not in the city's budget so it doesn't benefits them, I don't know I'm not fond of politics."
"It's boring" the Arc noticed his teacher's tone yep she didn't like talking about the topic.
"Not boring it sucks. I have nothing against politicians but all they care about is filling their pockets with money and little less for the sake of the kingdom and its people."
"Have I ever tell you I like hanging out with you?" the young blond laughed at suck comment.
"Yes you have many times and you better be or I will kick you out from been my apprentice."
"Really? You would?" blinked Jaune.
The Rose huntress gave a laugh" just kidding why do you always take me so serious?"
"Force of habit I guess."
Over two hours passed and both huntress and apprentice have given a few laps around the perimeter of the border. It was getting so bore for the young Arc this wasn't exactly what he was expecting for a first mission. At least fight a couple of Grimm not this kind of boring patrolling, then there was the huge security that was enough to topple an army of the evil creatures. Still he shouldn't complain at least it was quiet and there was no danger and best of all he was spending time with his teacher. Since he started training with Summer six years ago the Rose huntress has become more than a teacher and mentor, but a second mother. He has come to care for her very much and he was willing to do everything for her. Whether the mission wasn't as exciting as he was expecting it shouldn't matter he was here next to the woman's side. If anything happens he will assist her ready to prove himself he was ready from the results of his training.
Jaune gave a sigh" do we have to take another lap? I'm starting to get hungry?"
"...…..."
The blond took a glance at the Rose huntress because he didn't got a reply. The silver eyed woman's expression was in deep thought but there was something about her eyes. Something was bothering her maybe he was able to tell because he has been traveling with her for a while. It became like a sixth sense when it comes to his teacher it showed how important she was to him. That look in her eyes there was one feeling he could think of that somehow, she was feeling sad. But why would she be feeling such? What was on her mind to cause her to feel that way? Summer was always happy and her attitude was contagious it was impossible not to feel so positive and such just by been near her. There was no way he was going to stay quiet it was his responsibility as student to worried over her well being. She was also his friend and Jaune Arc never abandons his friends.
"You okay?"
"Yeah I'm fine just me lost in my little world" Summer smiled silly.
"You sure….?" no he didn't believe her something was really bothering her.
"I'm all right Jaune-"
"You shouldn't lie. If something's troubling its best to talk it out with someone. I'm here and you can tell me anything. If its good or bad I'm willing to listen I'll do anything for you."
"Jaune…." the silver eyed woman stood in awe before she started blushing" oh Jaune I didn't know you felt that way! You know I have a boyfriend and two daughters, I will never cheat on Taiyang."
The young Arc's stood red like a tomato not believing what she just said" that's not what I mean!"
"You can forget it young man I'm not into that cougar thing. You are my student and you are like a son to me nothing else, so erase all those fantasies of me you naughty boy" Summer was ready to burst out laughing watching his expression changed to complete embarrassment.
"Stop joking! You know what I'm talking about!" poor Jaune looked like he was to blow up from the embarrassment.
"Okay silly I don't think you can get any redder" she smirked hearing the blond mumbled something" why so caring to know if something's bothering me?"
"Seriously do you really need to ask?" he stood bewildered at her question the answer was so obvious.
"You're right I'm dumb for asking that question its all part of your caring nature" she smiled as she stopped walking gazing at some of the people passing my" maybe there is something wrong with me…."
"Are you sad?"
"What makes you think that?"
"The look in your eyes. I feel whatever is making you think is making you sad."
The Rose huntress stood a little taken back by his comment before smiling" you can be very observant sometimes Jaune good job. Yes there is something that's keeping me sad I don't usually give it too much thought, I never let it get to me. But recently it has been in my mind lately…."
"If its too personal you don't have to tell me. Everyone has a right to keep things to themselves every now and then."
"After you took your time in asking me and after embarrassing you like that I'm oblige to tell you" she smiled patting his head" I want to tell you…."
Jaune nodded there was a silence coming from his teacher like she was taking her time to speak. Was she hesitating? Did she regretted her choice? The Arc thought she really didn't wanted to tell him, it was something that personal to her. He bit his lower lip he made a mistake asking her he was making her uncomfortable with this topic.
"On second thought maybe we can give another lap to the border" but the blond couldn't move because he was been grabbed by the silver eyed woman.
"I said I will tell you I have no problem with it" she rolled her eyes getting straight to the point" do you remember the story a few years back? About the silver eye warriors?"
"Yeah I remember it was just a story…." why would she bring that? Was that really what was bothering her?
"What if I tell you that story is true?"
"True….? How true?"
"Everything. Those of the silver eyes were respected and fear because we were stronger than any being in Remnant. We possess a great power that made others fear us that's why we were getting hunted down."
"Hunted down?" Jaune didn't remember that part of the story.
"My ancestors came very close to eradicate the Grimm at one time. That was something not favorable to the "Source"."
"The source….?"
"The mother of Grimm. Its also known as the Source, it saw us as a threat to her kind. That is why it started hunting us down one by one. Those that feared us and hated us went so low to help the source in eliminating our kind. After so many centuries the source succeeded, my father was killed by Grimm and my mother took me to safety. I prepared my entire life ready to face the threat of the Grimm and the Source, I will not fail."
"Does that mean you and Ruby…." Jaune stood shocked at the revelation.
"The last of our kind yes...The last of the silver eyes."
"I can't believe you guys are the only ones. An entire race gone...The Source was responsible for wiping out your kind?"
"We were very powerful and because of it we were too much of a threat to the Source."
"Summer I'm so sorry…."
"For what silly?" she chuckled.
"I had no idea your life was always in constant danger, that you constantly have to fear for your life every day. It's no wonder you will be scare or sad if anything happens to your or Ruby. I didn't know it was something this serious I-"
"Jaune it's all right when you think about it its similar to a huntsman's life. Huntsmen and huntresses must always put their lives at risk because of their mission to protect the people of Remnant, they must consider that they could die at anytime. We all have to take that risk, all of us can die at any given time."
"You can't stop feeling that way because I'm here" the young Arc smiled" I'm not letting anything happen to you I'll protect you with my life."
"….…."
The Rose huntress turned her back not letting him see the tears that have fallen because of his short speech. It has touched her heart how far the young blond will go for her safety. But is it the right thing to involve him in this mess? She kept asking the same question but wasn't he already involved the moment he wished on that shooting star to return to the past? She already told him the story of her people and the Source of the Grimm he was deeply involved now. Jaune never wavered neither did he hesitated when he claimed he was going to protect his teacher no matter what. A thought crossed his mind what if in the original past Summer Rose died leaving Ruby, Yang and Taiyang alone. The pain that the half sister went through and their father must have been unbearable to take. The pain he will feel will be unbearable too he wasn't to let anything happen to her, he had the strength so he will put his life on the line for the woman who became his mentor.
Suddenly his thoughts were interrupted as Summer was hugging the lights out of him.
"Oh Jaune my hero! My knight in shinning in armor!"
"Would you knock that off!" the Arc broke free he knew she was been sarcastic.
"But you really made me happy you're planning to protect me. But you shouldn't be putting your life like that, even if its for me. You're still young you still have your whole life ahead."
"Which I will use it to protect you and everyone" he smiled.
"Don't forget Ruby and Yang those two have grown so attach to you."
"I will never forget Ruby, oh and Yang" Jaune frowned remembering the lilac eyed blond.
"Still angry with her for what she did?" Summer looked amused at her apprentice's reaction.
"Pretty much" the blond has given a pout nothing compared to Ruby's which it was way cuter.
"The lone knight walked into the village only to find it deserted. There was no one around, they were all kidnapped by the wicked dragon."
"The lone knight has to stop the wicked dragon and save the people of the village" said the eight year old Ruby excited she was really into the story.
Yang smiled holding the story book enjoying telling the bedtime story to her little sister" that's right the lone knight knew it was up to him to find the wicked dragon, slay it and save all the villagers."
Jaune wasn't too far away smiling at the girls. It was one of those days where he was staying to look after them while Summer was out on a mission and Taiyang absent doing his teacher work. Just before the Rose huntress left the Arc was getting some training from her and all that work out seemed to have taken a toll on him. He was starting to get sleeping and hearing the Xiao Long girl reading the bed time story seemed to be having more effect on him than on Ruby. The young Arc got seated on the floor of the girl's bedroom still listening to the narration of the blond resuming with the story.
"Finally the lone knight entered the cave where he saw all the innocent villagers trembling in fear. But the knight showed no fear he wanted to lift everyone's spirits again as he spoke" Yang got up doing a dramatic pose" everyone don't lose hope stay strong I am here to set you all free, leave the dragon to me."
Ruby was all pumped seeing her sister grabbed her plastic sword she really loved whenever she will red her bed time stories. To her it was the best part of the evening but it was hard to decided whenever her mother will bake cookies so she can eat them with milk before going to bed.
"The dragon emerged giving one mighty roar but the lone knight fight it head on. It used its fiery breath but with swift move using his shield to blocked the attack" the blond girl pointed the fake sword performing a thrust" he quickly attacked lunging his weapon and stabbing it on its neck, giving one painful cry the wicked dragon die!"
Yang stopped reading hearing her younger sister giggling" hey sis are you paying attention? I just read the best part of the story."
The young Rose pointed to Jaune who was sleeping he looked adorable. A grin was formed on the blonds lips as she picked up her black marker.
When Jaune woke up he heard laughter coming from the sisters. He thought Yang was telling Ruby a funny story but that wasn't the case. All the stories were always of the action adventure genre. When the Arc looked at the girls he saw the lilac eyed blond waving her black market making him gasped and realized why they were laughing. Turning to the nearest mirror his entire face was covered by the black marker there were stars, smiley faces and the word" dummy" written on his forehead. The blond turned to the Xiao Long who was whistling pretending to be the innocent victim while Ruby was still laughing. Not wasting he went to the bathroom to wash off the marker paint before it failed because it couldn't be wash off.
"Yang your marker is permanent!"
"Oops didn't notice sorry Jaune. But don't worry it will disappear eventually."
"Great just perfect thanks a lot."
"I said I was sorry geez."
"It took three hours to remove all that marker from my face. You had to use a wire sponge to get it all off along with that chemical that had such a strong smell it gave me a huge headache. So yeah I'm still angry at her."
"That was weeks ago and Yang told me she was really sorry. She felt bad you were angry, I want you to apologize to her after this mission. Are we clear?"
"Okay fine I can't stay angry at her forever."
"Excuse me!" a soldier of the Vale military ran to them" you two are the huntsmen patrolling with our unit?"
"That's right" replied Summer.
"We just got a transmission from the Police Department. There has been a fire in a building downtown the Fire Department has confirmed various casualties but managed to rescue survivors. You guys should get ready just in case."
"I see thank you very much for the information" the Rose huntress gave a nod as the soldier left.
"A fire in downtown? What does that has to do with our mission?"
"Really Jaune? You're asking the question?" the silver eyed woman stood a bit shocked.
"Um...Well I wait don't tell me I think I know. That fire is bad because of the casualties of course that's bad…."
"The deaths and the people that survives the fire, it will cause many kinds of negative emotions. You do remember that's what attracts Grimm the most?"
"Right Grimm have been attracted by negative emotions I almost forgot about that" Jaune felt stupid that was the first thing Port said when he started his class.
"Now is the time to keep our guard up. If Grimm have been attracted they will eventually try to cross the border."
The blond apprentice gave a nod he really dumb for forgetting. That was the first thing Professor Port taught in his class. Since the beginning the creatures of Grimm have always been attracted all kinds of negative emotions, shown by humans or even animals. They are creatures of darkness with no heart nor soul. The second they sense grief, anguish, sorrow, hate, strife among others. He remembered the teacher of Grimm studies saying that the biggest way to attract a large amount of them, in numbers of thousands was through "war". Again the Arc was glad he was awake when the Professor was talking about the topic. War history in Remnant there have been many of them through the centuries. Professor Oobleck once explained some of those wars have been chaotic due to the appearance of Grimm in many numbers. Now he had no idea how he was able to stay awake to hear that one.
The sound of a siren caught his ears knowing that wasn't a good sign. Jaune turned to Summer looking at him seriously with a nod. Looks like the mission wasn't going to be completely boring he was going to get some action. The siren belongs to the Grimm alert system it will sound whenever the creatures were close to the border. They were coming here because this was the only path to take in order to reach the city. Both were able to see the soldiers preparing their weapons and vehicles and they did the same. The young Arc readied Excalibur and his shield, his teacher readied her dual blade Rosa. Remembering the mission they were to eliminate Grimm and assist the military, aiding them was important.
To Jaune this mission was very important. Aside that it was his first mission with his teacher and protecting Vale along with the military. He needed to prove something to Summer that he has what it takes and to make her proud. The last part was silly the Rose huntress has already told him she was proud of him of everything. Since she took him in and made him her apprentice, since the training, since knowing the kind of person he is. She will always be proud of him but it was better to show her first hand with how much he has improved.
"Don't worry you'll be fine" she assured him.
"I'm not scare, I'm just…."
"Anxious?" Summer smiled" you're starting to sound like Yang."
"You just have to say it" the young blond rolled his eyes while the silver eyed woman gave a chuckle.
They couldn't continue their conversation as they spotted Grimm heading their way. The sight was not good there were so many proof that they have been attracted by the negative emotions of the fire from earlier. There were Ursai, Beowulf and Goliaths it was a stampede of Grimm. Jaune gulped now he knew this mission was going to be harder than it looks. The Vale army have started their attack on the creatures opening fire from a safe distance. Their tanks fired their powerful canon the combine firepower was enough to take down quite the number. But they were still too many they were going to eventually reach the border. Their main objective was to eliminate any number Grimm before they head further into Vale. Jaune and Summer used their weapons in long range mode, Excalibur in rifle mode and Summer's Rose in twin gun mode aiding the firepower of the military.
"We will have to fight them head on."
"Because of their numbers we don't have a choice" the Rose huntress kept firing her weapon.
The stampede reached the border while more were getting destroyed by the tanks weaponry. Both the young Arc and the silver eyed huntress stood together taking Grimm after Grimm giving additional help to the Valerian soldiers. Things were going food between one experienced huntress, one trained huntsman apprentice and dozens of well trained soldiers the odds were at their favor. That is, until the Goliath part of the stampede arrived. The elephant type creature was among the toughest and strongest species of Grimm next to the Deathstalker and the Nevermore. The Valerian soldiers were having trouble taking down the elephants Grimm using their rifles along with grenades. Needless to say the Goliaths weren't been affected that much by the weapons fire power.
Jaune fired his weapon in rifle mode and that wasn't doing a thing to one of the elephant creature that were engage with some of the soldiers. Hitting it from its stomach wasn't going to be easy and he also needed more firepower. Good thing he had his grenadier mode it was the only thing that will be enough to slow it down. But that won't be helpful if he doesn't make a direct hit on the stomach.
"Jaune be careful!" Summer cut an Ursai concerned that her apprentice had a strong Grimm for opponent.
"Okay how am I going to hit it from underneath?" the blond stood in thought watching the soldiers still firing their weapons at the Goliath and it wasn't doing that much damage to it.
To his shocked the elephant Grimm charged hitting the four soldiers. Its charge is powerful if it weren't for aura the injuries would be very bad. The Arc gulped seeing that the creature was staring at him it had him on its sights. It went for another charge and Jaune dodge it a Goliath was strong but it wasn't that fast on its movements that was a good disadvantage. Fighting someone like Summer who's semblance was speed but for him, it was a different story. He fired a grenadier directly at the face he knew it won't be defeated like that but it might distract it. Jaune ran as fast as he could trying to get underneath the elephant Grimm only to be meet by its strong legs. The explosion barely scratch the armor and it recuperated ready to attack the young apprentice.
"I'm in trouble and I can't take on this thing on my own" he was aware of the limit of his training and how he couldn't defeat a strong type like a Goliath.
"Jaune!" Summer panicked seeing her apprentice in trouble but she was surrounded by a pack of Ursai accompanied by another Goliath" I have my hands full…."
Thanks to her semblance the Rose huntress didn't had a problem taking down the many Ursai. But the Goliath became a problem. Even with her skills she was going to have a tough time dealing with the elephant Grimm. Then she saw the young blond waving at her to get her attention.
"Lead your Goliath towards mine!"
"What….?" her silver eyes widened but, shortly she grinned having an idea what could he be up to.
Using Rosa in two gun mode she fired a couple of shots at her Grimm opponent" that's right I'm over here!"
Jaune smiled seeing that Summer has succeeded in making the elephant creature to run after her. He already got his Goliath's attention while he was running straight at his teacher.
"Already know what you're planning and its very clever" she smiled at him.
"Wait for them to get a little closer."
A few seconds later the two Goliath were about to touch them with their charge attack.
"Now!"
Summer took his hand and used her semblance to left quickly and both elephant Grimm hit each other with their own attack. It was like two trucks crashing together. Both were down and it was probably the most creative way to stop them. Before Jaune could say a word he was enveloped in a hug by the silver eyed woman.
"That's my apprentice so smart."
"I can't believe it worked."
The Rose huntress didn't had time to give him another complement because the two Goliath were back on their feet. One of them charged at her but it was blocked by Jaune getting in front of his teacher using his Crocea Mors shield. The young blond send a lot of his aura for the defensive stance, good news he was able to blocked the charge, bad news he was sent flying and lost his shield in the process. She was fighting the elephant Grimm while she wanted to check on her apprentice but she needed to keep her focus on her opponent. She gasped the second one charged at the blond, seeing her was trying to get up the Rose huntress activated her semblance to get him out of harm's way. The consequences Summer got hit by the Goliath's strong tusk, she was on the ground looking out cold.
"Summer!" Jaune stood shocked watching his teacher downed not even her can handle two of the creatures.
He tried to take his shield back but they weren't going to let him. The beasts have gotten themselves behind it, their red eyes were on him. These were the times he needed a miracle just in luck to get involved fighting two of the strongest Grimm species. The Arc did the only thing he could used his strongest weapon, Excalibur in grenadier mode. But firing at them at their faces won't do the key was getting underneath them and firing on the unprotected area where their thick armor wasn't present. The Vale military was too busy fighting the rest of the stampede so he couldn't count on their assistance. The blond dodged a couple of kicks from the elephant creatures running to the body of her teacher.
"Summer, you okay?!"
"I keep forgetting those things are a pain to defeat" the silver eyed woman hold her head.
"You're telling me. Anyway is there a way to attack their stomach?"
"It won't be easy. Goliath are known for been strong with a high defense and highly clever. They're not going to lower their guard without using your head."
"Here they come! Look out!" Jaune put his teacher protecting her from the elephant creature.
"Don't do that!" the Rose huntress has suddenly snapped which shocked him" don't put yourself in danger because of me."
"I can't protect you?" he was confused seeing her behavior strange.
"Many people perished because they were trying to protect our kind. Jaune I don't want you in that group."
"I want to protect you because you are dear to me. I want to protect you if I have the strength."
"I don't need protecting young man."
Watch me!" he fired his grenadier at the Goliath to get their attention.
And it worked apparently the elephants were more interested in crushing the blond knight than the experienced silver eyed huntress. Summer acted quickly using her semblance to get his shield and returning it to its rightful owner.
"If you want to protect me, I will protect you" she smiled" I can be stubborn too."
The Arc chuckled turning to the two Goliath" bring it! I'm not giving up!"
"Jaune…." the Rose huntress stood in awe seeing her apprentice's body glowing with the color of his aura.
"What?" he turned to the woman not having what was going on.
"Your body...Your aura is resonating within you."
"Okay...Is that a good thing?"
Something appeared next to the blond. Both gasped seeing a magic circle it many circles within and the middle of it, the Arc family symbol. Jaune was in awe at the sight it reminded him of Weiss's semblance of glyphs, he stopped getting lost in thought. Looking at his body that was still glowing with his aura and now this circle appeared.
"Could this be my semblance? But this is the same as Weiss, its not that original."
Then once more his thoughts were interrupted as something has come out from the Arc magic circle. A crystal the size of a human head and shape of a tear, it shortly shattered and something came out of it. It was a creature, a really big creature but it wasn't a Grimm. The monster was big, bigger than the Goliath and more intimidating, hell it was more intimidating than any Grimm the Arc has ever seen with the exception of the dragon Grimm. It was colored blue with the chest area slightly pink, it had red eyes with with horns sharp claws, sharp fangs with spike bracelets on the arms, a long horn that came from the back with long floppy ears with a long tail. The creature resemblance that of a demonic dog with a big horn. Jaune didn't know what to say he stood with wide eyes and open mouth wide and it was the same with Summer. Even the two Goliath stood without making a movement like they were reacting at the creature's presence.
"Hmm….." the young blond stood in thought before freaking out" what is that!?"
"Your guess is as good as mine" replied the Rose huntress.
"What on Monty's name is that thing!? That...That can't be my semblance!"
"It's not a Grimm that's for sure" the silver eyed woman noticed it didn't had any characteristics that resemblance the dark creatures.
"This is great what else can happen?" Jaune threw his hands on the air.
"You have summoned me descendant of Arthuro. I shall aid you in battle."
"What the!? You're talking in my head! Okay I'm losing my mind here."
"Jaune if this creature is your semblance then he will help us" said Summer unsure and worried" right?"
"I..I think so, right?" the blond turned to the summoned creature.
"That is correct I am here to aid you in the battle and whenever you may need my assistance. I am the mighty Behemoth King."
"Behemoth you go that right" the Arc smiled pointing to the two elephant Grimm" then help us against them!"
The Goliaths charged at the apprentice and teacher before Jaune's new ally gave a roar that was heard in the entire border area. It didn't scared the creatures but the Behemoth used his heave ram attack and sent both elephants flying in the air. The sight was unreal as both Jaune and Summer stood with wide eyes. The creatures hit the ground like two massive boulders and eventually were killed as they turned to dust. They turned to each other still not believing what just happened because seriously, you never thought you would ever see a heavy creature like a Goliath getting sent flying like a rag doll, it was impossible.
"Holy Monty" muttered Jaune" you saw that right?"
"Yes hard to believe. A Goliath weights three thousand pounds and your" friend" toss two of them like they weight nothing."
"Six thousand pounds in the air he's strong" the Arc smiled at the Behemoth" can you help us defeat the rest of the Grimm?"
"Of course, get on!"
Jaune didn't hesitated as he boarded the Behemoth King. He turned to Summer who was looking at him like he was insane.
"Come on we're helping the army get rid of the rest."
"I think it will be best if I stay and aid the Vale military from this position" clearly the Rose huntress wasn't looking forward to ride on the summoned creature.
"Don't be a scarey cat Summer come on it will be fun."
"I'm not scare and that doesn't look fun" the silver eyed woman should earn an award for lying.
"You're coming with me and that's final."
"Jaune stop!" the woman gasped as she got dragged by her apprentice mounting the creature.
"Go!" he commanded to his summon.
"Hold on!"
Expecting he wasn't going to be fast Jaune thought wrong. It turned out the Behemoth King was fast as he was strong making his riders screamed for their lives. He charged at any visible Grimm he saw ans used its heave attack sending them flying like the two Goliath. Thanks to the powerful creature's aid many of the Grimm were defeated along with the remaining Goliath. What left of the stampede a couple of Beowulf and Ursai were eradicated by the military, the rest escaped thinking it was the right thing to do.
The soldiers did a brief celebration for their victory before they gathered the wounded and any casualties they suffered. Thankfully no casualties were found just a couple of wounded. The Behemoth King stopped once there wasn't any sign of the enemy and shortly his two riders got off. Jaune was expecting to hear an angry rant from Summer but instead the silver eyed woman was hyped and all smiles. He was confused to see her so happy and just staring at her face reminded him of Ruby when she was hype about something, like showing her a new weapon she has never seen before.
"You okay?"
"If I'm okay? I never felt so happy in my whole life. Let's do it again!" Summer was all smiles" you were right it was fun."
"You can be scary sometimes" the Arc just chuckled at her similarity with her daughter.
"That battle has been won."
"We couldn't have done it without you."
"You can communicate with it?" said the Rose huntress" I think it should be expected if its part of your semblance."
"Whenever you need me you can summon me. We will always aid you in battle."
"We? Are you saying there's more of you?" Jaune was surprised giving a smile.
"Not like me but there are many more that follow the wishes of Arthuro and wishes to aid the Arc lineage."
"Arthuro?" the young blond remembered the creature mentioning him before" who is he?"
"Perhaps you should ask another member of the Arc family. I must be off, my time been summoned is running out."
"So there's a time limit for you been here" the young Arc stood in thought thinking more of the name of" Arthuro."
"Until the next time we meet descendant of Arthuro."
The Behemoth King has changed back into a crystal. Jaune touched it and it vanished in a white light" I guess that's it."
"Congratulations Jaune for finally awaking your semblance" Summer gave him a quick hug.
"So are we done?"
"The military are finishing with the wounded. After taking out this many Grimm the border will be safe again, until we're call again. Also" she smiled spotting a soldier running to them.
"On behalf of General Isley we would like thank you for your services. We will deliver your payment before the end of the day."
"Thank you, we'll be staying in the Vale for the time being. You can tell the general to call me he already knows my scroll number" replied the Rose huntress as the soldier nodded and left.
"Summer thanks for everything" Jaune smiled at his teacher" without I would have never gotten this far as a huntsman, or this strong. You have changed my life for the better because of you, my relations with my father couldn't be any better. Days like this I am glad that wish came true so I was able to get this chance and meet you. Best moments of my life have been with you…." the blond paused noticing the huntress has turned her back to him.
"Summer….?" he heard sobbing and sniffling from the silver eyed huntress.
"Why do you always have to do that!?" she was crying comical tears" always making me cry with your emotional speeches I can't take this anymore Jaune. You can't keep doing this to me if this keeps up I will have to adopt you after all."
"But I already have parents."
"I can tell them that you die in a mission while secretly I changed your name and appearance to Jean Rose" the grin she was giving was enough to scare the blond Arc" I'll dye your hair to red and add the black and finally I will use silver contact lenses, you'll be the living image of Ruby and her twin brother, then you'll be my real son."
"…..."
"Jaune?" she got worried seeing his blank expression" you all right?"
"Okayyyyy, thanks Summer for creeping me out."
"I scared you? Oh don't be silly I was just kidding."
"You did scared me. Your face and your tone was really creepy."
"Well you can rest easy now I'm not really planning to turn you into my son...Yet."
"Stop that!" he frowned and she laughed.
(Time skip)
(Location: hotel downtown Vale)
Jaune has suddenly woke up some time in the middle of the night. He got off from his bed heading for the bath room because he needed to use the toilet. After he decided to wash his face and he did it with a smile on his face. The day couldn't had gone better it was still tough fighting all those Grimm and the two Goliath. But it was even better when he finally developed his semblance something he didn't did in his past future. By now his path was cleared he will eventually get strong to be prepare when that woman enters his life. The attack on Vale won't happen he will make sure her plan doesn't come to fruition. Seven years more and the events will take place he wasn't planning to lose not after all the training, unlocking his aura and developing his semblance. He was about to return to his bed when he was hearing voices outside of the room. The young Arc recognized Summer's voice and so was the second.
"You really want to do this?"
Jaune went closer to the door to hear better" that sounds like Qrow…."
"I'm done running away. If she wants me then I will go to her."
"It's not worth it. You have a family, why risk your life?"
"Because if I don't she will eventually come for me and...She might come after Ruby. I will not let that happen, not my daughter."
"You really have a death wish and your supposed to be the calm, rational one of the team. I still don't even know why'd lie to the kid of you not been team leader. Tai will laugh and my sister will snort if they find out I was leader. Come on me leader that's a joke, its team STRQ not QRST."
"Don't try to change the subject Qrow that's one bad habit of yours I can't stand. The point is, I've been running away from her for so long and the truth is I can't. I can't run away, she's been hunting my ancestors for thousands of years and now its finally come down to me and my daughter. The last of the silver eyes lineage."
"Why can't you understand what you want to do is crazy? It's a suicide mission, a trap you'll die!"
"I don't have a choice I have to face her because it will eventually lead to that. This fight is inevitable."
"Who is she talking about?" Jaune was still listening through the door of the room.
"I never said it won't happen, it will. At least let's talk to Oz so he can send us back up, because you sure are going to need it."
"I'm not getting anyone involve in this, its me she wants no one else."
"Forgetting Ruby?"
"I made sure she wouldn't sense her. I hide her well where she won't find her, its the reason why I convinced Taiyang to live in Patch."
"Fine acting stubborn I can deal with that. But you're not going alone, I'm calling the team."
"You are not calling Taiyang he can't know about this."
"I'll call my sister then although it will be useless she never answers her scroll. Makes me wonder why she has one in the first place. Looks like that leaves only me from the team."
"Qrow-"
"Shut it already Summer I'm coming with you and that's final. I'll contact a bullhead to send us there first thing in the morning.
"All right."
Jaune couldn't take anymore he opened the door facing the two huntsmen" I'm coming too!"
"Jaune…." the Rose huntress stood shocked realizing he was eavesdropping.
"I'm going with you guys, you're talking about a very important mission and you also mention the silver eye warriors. So yeah I'm in."
"You told him about it?" the scythe master sounded shocked gazing at the silver eyed woman.
"I trust him with my life."
"Well" he took a sip from his flask" good luck explaining him your suicide run."
"Thank you for volunteering for the explanation" Summer glared at the huntsman.
"You're the one who wants to go to the Dead Lands. I'll be at the bar I heard the one from this hotel has some good locking ladies" he walked off leaving the teacher and student alone.
"The Dead lands….?" the Arc turned to the huntress" why do you want to go there?"
"First Jaune, let's head back inside. I'll explain everything."
To be continued
-Jaune's semblance is finally revealed" crystal summoning" which is the same ability Serah Farron has in FFXIII2 which Jaune unleashes a crystal with a creature within who will aid him in battle. Also the Behemoth King he summoned is the one from Final Fantasy XIII yeah the one who raises his stats when his HP is near death (a pain in the ass to beat until you have pretty buff party).
-Behemoth King won't be the only monster he can summon. I decided to make his monster summoning limit to 10 that means he has 9 more monsters to unlock. The best part of this is I want you guys the wonderful readers of this story to give me recommendations for monsters here are the conditions:
a. They don't have to be from the FF series they can be from other Japanese RPG or anime series. They can even be your favorite summons for all I care I need cool monsters for Jaune.
b. Please be specific about them remember I have played a lot of RPG's but surely I will not know all the monsters or not even know the game or anime so give me its general. Information. I can also check the wiki pages which helps a lot too.
c. Try not to give OP summons it will be overkill for Jaune to have a very powerful creature on his side but I'm sure some of you will say its freaking cool he does have an OP summon.
-Other details about Jaune's semblance the summons can't die when they're beaten they will return to their crystal forms and return to the summoner's side until they heal and ready to fight again. There's a time limit for the summons to stay in the field, 10 minutes but Jaune can use his aura to increase the time limit (that's a niffy trick he will eventually learn further in the story). Another thing Jaune will also learn to summon more than one monster at the same time however, the more monsters he summons the more aura he will use and need to keep them in the field.
-One important detail I forgot to add I want to be more specific with the summons. I will like for elemental summons (one of fire, one of water or ice, one of earth, one of lightning, one of darkness, one of light, a speed type, a flying type). Any of those details I will think about it before accepting it.
-I decided to stick with my theory that only a silver eye warrior can kill Salem and yes I have add it to this story. Honestly as strong as Ozpin is I don't think he can kill her. Otherwise he would have done it many years ago and there was no need to build a huntsman and huntress academy or even a reason to come up with the RWBY series at all.
-I want to thank all the fans who gave me suggestions for Jaune's semblance thank you very much. However like I said I already had his semblance decided since the beginning of the story I really wanted to hear your opinions and some have really impressed me. But don't feel bad this won't be my only Jaune story I might write more and I might even use some of these wonderful ideas for a semblance for him. Not just me maybe other authors will feel inspire to write such stories with these semblance suggestions. So again thank you.
-On another note when you read the title of the next chapter below please don't review me or PM me asking if I'm planning to kill Summer because I'm not going to say spoilers. Only way to find out is to read the story.
-Can't forget to always thank you for the favs, follows and reviews I really appreciate it.
Next time: Tears
