Disclaimer: I don't own RWBY and Tales of Berseria they are the rightful property of RoosterTeeth and Bandai Namco.

Italics are thoughts

Bold and Italics are flashbacks

Bold are artes being performed


Chapter 29 Return to Titania

(Location: Port Zekson Crossroads of Commerce Midgand region Midgand Empire)

The party returned from their trip to the capital. They met up with Tabatha at the Bloodwings hideout, Baskerville's Tavern. They had made another business agreement with the older woman. To escort a mysterious person away from Loegres, away from any law authority or the Abbey itself. For what reasons, they didn't know. The guild leader didn't say but it was better if it stays that way. In exchange for the escort Velvet wanted information on the daemon from the royal villa. Tabatha has told her the creature has been relocated to an unknown location. Obviously the older woman agreed to lend her the aid of her guild.

Jaune was truly curious to know the identity of person they were escorting. The individual was wearing a brown hood and cloak. His whole face was hidden from view. Not that far from the port stood his mascot, the elegant hawk was flying close by stretching it's wings. Honestly the blond exorcist wanted to know who he was more than knowing the location of the daemon from the villa. If the royal villa is another earthpulse point, then, that daemon is obviously another therion. They had agreed to find all seven therions in order to prevent Innominat's full awakening. The beetle from the Warg Forest and Kamoana from Palamides Temple was two down.

Counting Velvet, was three down. So they only needed to find four more. Four earthpulse points of probably dozens throughout the entire continent. Selene was right. Finding the ones that have the therions will be like finding a needle in a haystack. It will take them days, even weeks. Time that they probably didn't had. What if Innominat's awakening was almost upon them. Jaune was still convinced that Artorius was up to something. Asides from the previous encounters with Shigure, Melchior and Oscar, it seems the Abbey isn't that" committed" in finding and hunting their group. Which it was something that was bothering the blond a lot.

The Abbey wouldn't be trying unless, they weren't a threat. After everything they've done it was enough to put the whole group on the most wanted list of the empire. But nothing. No hint or clue that they were most wanted. In fact, Jaune's wanted posters was gone. Before leaving the tavern he asked Tabatha about it and the older woman replied, that the Abbey has stopped putting them in the capital. At least in Loegres. Hearing about it made the Arc very concerned. It should be good news, but it really wasn't. Point is, they were a dangerous group and therefore the exorcist institution should prioritize in hunting them.

If Artorius wasn't putting any effort in their capture, then something was terribly wrong. The former praetor knew they were focusing in Innominat's ritual, the therions in the earthpulse points. But they should be also focusing in fighting the ones who are against the Shepherd's plan, his enemies. Yet, he hasn't done much. In the three years he trained under the man he has come to know him well. Artorius was a calm and very calculated person. Maybe in truth, they weren't really a threat or something not to bother with. They were meaningless, not worth stopping. That couldn't be it, he wasn't arrogant like Shigure.

"What could be running in your head now? Are you THAT sure we can't stop you, we can't stop Innominat from coming to this world. So even if we find all the therions and remove them from the earthpulse points, it won't do any good. Why else wouldn't he give orders to stop us? Does he think we can't protect the therions? As long as they're alive, Artorius shouldn't be able to create more. I know he's very patient so he's probably waiting for something...Waiting for what?"

"Grrr...All this thinking will only give me a headache. I shouldn't be worrying too much. All we can do is keep going forward. We go to Titania and eliminate any daemons there, then we take over the place making it our official hideout. After that, we'll resume the search for the therions."

Selene has been staring at her master for a while. The malak girl was worried. She has come to know his facial features. And right now, he had his" thinking face". Then he will looked worried. Obviously the blond was thinking of something that was troubling him. He has a tendency of over-worrying about stuff that was beyond his control or anyone's. It must be this whole mission of saving the therions. He was probably concerned if the Abbey don't find the current therions they have, they can kill them and create more. Sacrificing lives and ruining the lives of other innocent people. Maybe she should try to cheer him up later.

"I'm sorry for trying to over-price you. I guess I was taking advantage that your captain isn't with you. I thought raising the price was the right thing to do. Also, as I said, your group is becoming dangerous, you have caused a lot of trouble."

"It's okay. All is forgiven. I'm glad you decided to charge us the usual amount" smiled Benwick.

As the party started walking to the dock towards the blond pirate and the port owner. A strange golden ray of light passed through all over the port hitting the group and everyone present. Jaune was shocked while Selene's eyes widened, the same with Laphicet. That wasn't normal. The blond exorcist and the two malak somehow had a bad feeling about it. They noticed Benwick and the port owner were no longer talking. They were silent as their eyes were lacking emotion. They weren't the only ones. Everyone else at the port were acting the same way.

"Huh? What's happening?" asked Eleanor.

"Benwick, snap out of it!" Velvet shook the young pirate as he was able to come to his senses.

"Huh? I was...Just talking to this guy, and…."

"Tell you what" spoke the port owner in a monotone voice" I won't charge you at all. You can take what you need. I have no need for money. Gald should be given to those who really need it."

"What?" Jaune blinked the guy was acting completely different from his usual self.

"We should all endeavor to help contribute to the common good of humanity, rather than selfishly pursue wanton profit…."

"What? Are you sure?" asked Benwick taken back.

"No...Wait...What was I saying?" the port owner snapped back to normal.

"You felt that too, didn't you, kiddo?" Magilou gazed at Laphicet.

"We both did" said Selene.

"Yeah...It disappeared, but I fell a strong force coming from somewhere to the north."

"It's called a" domain"-a malak's zone of influence" said Eizen.

"Wait. If it's north of here, then…." said the red head exorcist.

"The Empyrean's Throne?" said Velvet.

"Innominat" Jaune glared" you're saying what we just felt was the power of his domain?"

"Most likely" replied the pirate malak.

"Did that happened because of something Innominat and Artorius did?" asked Rokurou.

"I don't know" the Crowe stood in thought.

"Jaune?" Selene turned to her master worried.

"It's no wonder I've been worrying too much. I could be right. Maybe there's not much time left and it won't matter if we find and save the therions. Innominat could probably be awake already. What just happened just now could be proof. I'm starting to get sick of being right all the time. Stupid bad feeling."

"I've got a bad feeling about this. We should get far away from here, and quickly" said the earth malak.

The group agreed as they started walking towards the Van Eltia while the hooded man stood behind.

"So...The Suppression?"


The pirate ship left Port Zekson in a hurry. Eizen ordered the crew to increased speed. He wanted to be far away from Midgand and the northern where he felt that domain energy. His bad feeling was still there. If if was indeed the work of Innominat's domain, then it was something they should worry about. Apparently the pirate malak wasn't the only one. Selene, Laphicet and Jaune were worried after what they just witnessed. Everyone was acting so weird after they got hit by that passing light. All four were thinking the worse that can happen.

But once they were far away, the group went to the other thing. They stood at the deck along with the hooded man. They were all curious to know who he is. Why the Bloodwings wanted him to be taken away from the capital. They were safe out here without worrying of the Abbey or any authorities. Yet the man in the hood stood still without saying a word. Being silent since they first saw him at Tabatha's tavern. His hawk was still flying close by. They needed to be careful if it tries to attack them. Depending how they treat it's master.

"All right, we're safely on the rolling waves. Don't you think it's time you showed us your face, Mystery Monk?" said Rokurou.

"You're right. My apologies" replied the hooded man.

"That voice!" Jaune was shocked he has heard it before many times" it can't be…."

The man finally lifted his hood revealing his face to the group.

"I knew it! Prince Percival!" Eleanor was the first to speak.

"You knew?" the Arc sweat dropped.

"It was the smell of fragrant wood that gave it away."

"I smelled it too. They all did" the blond exorcist stared at Selene and Laphicet.

"Percival II Mid Asgard, crowned prince and heir to the throne of the Midgand Kingdom" said Eizen.

"So he's next in line, is he?" asked Velvet.

"It looks like someone already had me figured out" said Percival.

"Yes, your highness. As I said. It was the scent of fragrant wood that only members of the royal family can wear. " said the red head.

"With a scent like that. Anyone can tell it's you. Your Highness" said the Arc.

"It smells very good" said Selene smiling.

"But why would you come to the Bloodwings for help?" asked the former praetor.

"Must I explain myself to gain your aid? I myself could ask what an exorcist is doing consorting with members of the underworld."

"I...I don't…."

"It doesn't matter why you're here. On this ship, you're here for us to use to our advantage" said the Crowe.

"Treat me as you will. It's not like I can ever go back" he muttered the last part as he walked off.

"For a fellow born with silver spoons spewing out of his mouth...Princey-poo's rather laid back" said Magilou.

"Prince Percival is an upstanding man renowned for both his intelligence and his fair, just demeanor. It's widely believed that with him on the throne, Midgand's prosperity will continue, and-" said Eleanor.

"Look, I played dumb earlier, but I smelled that scent, too. He wore it for us to notice" said Velvet.

"Really? You looked pretty convincing that you didn't smelled it back at the capital" Jaune smirked.

The Crowe only elbowed his side while tapping her right foot.

"He wanted to know just what sort of position he held and how useful he could be to us" said the red head exorcist.

"I'm curious to know what he meant when he said" he couldn't go back" to the capital" the Arc stood in thought.

"Do you think we're being led into another trap?" asked Rokurou.

"We definitely can't take that possibility off the table" said Eizen.

"When the time comes, he'll make a good hostage, if nothing else" said the daemon woman.

"Not if the ones we face are after his life, too" said Magilou.

"For now, let's just keep an eye on him" said the daemon swordsman.

"I'm with Jaune. He said" he couldn't go back" why?" said Laphicet.

"Yes. I would like to know too…." said Eleanor.

"I hear you" replied the blond exorcist" I wonder if Artorius will care that Prince Percival is with us."

"He should care. I mean Prince Percival is the heir-" started the red head exorcist.

"Will he really care? Percival may be the prince and next in line for the throne. But right now, at his current state. He doesn't hold any power whatsoever."

"Didn't he gave all his power and authority to Artorius?" asked Selene.

"Exactly. The Shepherd is the one ruling the empire. That's why I ask if the prince's life matters to him" said the former praetor.

"The majority out weights the individuals. Isn't that his mantra or something?" said the archer malak.

"It's more like the needs of the many out weights the needs of the few. But you still got it right" the blond smiled at his malak before he got serious gazing where the prince went off.

"He looks like he doesn't want to be disturbed. Maybe he needs some time alone. Will ruling the empire matter with Innominat around? After watching how those people acted at Port Zekson, I have a feeling it won't."


Jaune got some quick rest in his room while doing some maintenance to Crocea Mors. Readying his supplies before leaving, heading to the deck of the ship. The others were already there including Selene. The blond exorcist turned to Prince Percival. The man was holding onto his hawk. The bird seemed it had enough flying around and wanted to get some rest. The times he's seen the prince when he was with the Abbey, he did had some small conversations with him. He was truly compassionate and honest. The kind of person anyone will get along. The traits a true king should have. But he understood he needed some space, so the Arc chose to let him be.

The blond could see the dock to the prison island straight ahead. The rest of the group was aware and they were ready to board down. Minutes later the Van Eltia reached the dock as it set anchor making a complete stop. Jaune readied his weapon climbing down with the party. He knew the prison must be swarming with daemons and who knows how strong they must have gotten since the last time he was here. It's been weeks, or months since the riot. Turning to everyone, they were ready. They walked the dock heading to the main entrance. No guards, no surprise if the daemons killed all the exorcists.

The Arc noticed the rest were coming with them. Dyle, Kurogane, Prince Percival and Kamoana. If the place was filled with daemons they should stay at the ship until they're done dealing with them. True they wanted to check out if the place will be right for a hideout. Even if they weren't humans it was still going to be dangerous. Looking after them will be distracting or as Velvet puts it, babysitting. Not like Dyle or Kurogane needed it, he wasn't sure about the prince. But Kamoana, even as a therion, she still needed protecting. He was on board for it, so is Selene and he knew it was the same with Eleanor.

"The whole island's a prison...It's like a secret fort for something!" said Laphicet sounding excited.

"That's right. This will be your first time here" Jaune smiled at the boy.

"Weirdly quiet, though" said Rokurou.

"The place should be infested with daemons. It is weird" followed Selene.

"Yeah, I don't see a single exorcist on watch. Guess Jaune's right. They're all sleeping peacefully" said Magilou.

"Let's scope out the inside" said Velvet" we take out any daemon we see."

"You four stay close and look after Kamoana" Jaune told the two daemons, the therion girl and the prince" who knows how dangerous the inside is."

As the party entered through the main gates of the prison. The first thing they see was a wounded exorcist, a praetor. This really surprised Jaune a lot. He was expecting by now there wouldn't be any exorcists left alive with how dire the riot got. The blond was sure they didn't sent any reinforcements, not after Oscar. If that was true then, they wouldn't have lasted long. Maybe they were consumed by malevolence becoming daemons. Which it was so strange to see a survivor after so long. Everyone stood on their fighting stance, not lowering their guard. The former praetor has unsheathing his sword and shield.

"An exorcist!" said Eizen.

The masked woman collapsed.

"Are you all right?" Eleanor went to him.

"U-Urgh...Headless...Kni...Knight...Tss...Back…."

"She's gone" the red head exorcist stood in thought.

"The headless knight is back" that's what Velvet understood.

"Look out!" shouted Selene.

(Music: "Burn your soul and fly" from the Tales of Berseria original soundtrack)

A Bush Ape has suddenly jumped before them

"Think this is the daemon that attacked her?" asked Rokurou.

"That's no headless knight" said Jaune.

"Hmm, another prison riot?" said Magilou.

The fight was short. It was only one against eight. And it was clear they were stronger than the Bush Ape. It was defeated before Velvet consumed it with her daemon arm.

(Music end)

"So did the Abbey fail to quell the riot?" asked the black haired woman.

"That's what it looks like. I don't think they got those reinforcements after Oscar retreated. That means the place must look worse than the last time we were here" said the Arc.

"I still find that hard to believe. The prison was heavily guarded staffed with exorcists" said the daemon swordsman.

"Never underestimate the power in strength of a riot. Especially one consume of daemons" said the former praetor.

"Perhaps it was venomization" added Eizen.

"Venomization?" asked Laphicet.

"A dark ritual forcing daemons to eat each other in order to produce ever-stronger daemons" said the pirate malak.

"I've read about that" the Arc stood in thought wondering if the Abbey was behind it.

"So the daemons devoured each other, creating a daemon too powerful for the exorcists to control?" said the war daemon.

"That's how it is. It's like a fusion merging with them by eating them. But it was definitely not this one" Selene spoke about the Bush Ape, it was too weak.

"I imagine the riot didn't help" said Eleanor.

"But why would the Abbey performed a ritual like venomization in the first place When they couldn't stop the riot to begin with?" Jaune believed he already knew the answer.

"Who knows" replied the therion woman.

"The riot...Now whose fault could that have been, I wonder" said the witch.

"Drop it Magilou. This isn't the time to be pointing fingers. I think what's important right now is eliminating the daemons in the prison" said the Arc.

"Whatever happened doesn't matter to us now. We need to focus in removing the daemons, so we can take this place for ourselves."

"That exorcist from before said something about a" headless knight", right?" said Laphicet.

"That one's probably the leader" followed the pirate malak.

"Then we hunt it down and destroy it" said Rokurou.

"We also have to hunt down the rest. This place won't be safe until every last daemon has been taken out" said the blond exorcist.

"Until we capture the island, let's use this room for our staging ground" said Velvet" I'll leave the prince and Kamoana to you two. Eliminate any enemies who come in."

"Understood" said Kurogane.

"Don't expect much from me, but all right" said Dyle.

"Kamoana, if anything happens, call for me and I'll come running to protect you, OK?" said Eleanor.

"OK. You stay safe too, Eleanor. And you too Selene" the therion girl gazed over at the malak girl.

"Oh, ha of course. I always take care of myself" she smiled.

"Let's go" said the Crowe.


As the party started venturing the prison Jaune was indeed right. The entire place was filled with daemons as caused by the venomization. They have fought against various types. Fire witch, Tiga Heddin and Gargoyle. They fought groups of these creatures. But they weren't strong enough to outmatch all eight of them. Obviously these daemons weren't the ones they were looking for. But they were everywhere. Meaning they will have to fight a lot if they wanted to find the big fish. There were also no signs of exorcists anywhere. Another thing the Arc was right about. They were all dead or probably became daemons.

At some point Eleanor asked about the prison riot. She didn't got any details from the Abbey. That's when she found out the one responsible for causing it was Velvet. She used the riot as a distraction so she, Rokurou and Magilou escaped the island. The red head exorcist wasn't happy finding out the truth. Though she also found out Jaune arrived to saved her, a little late to say. But together they were able to escaped Titania while leaving the prisoners and the guards behind. They never stayed to witness the results. They were now witnessing them, every single exorcist dead and the prison infested with daemons.

Jaune turned to the Crowe who was focusing on the path. This place was obviously bringing her bad memories, so it wasn't easy for her to be back here. He started thinking about the venomization ritual. Eizen explained the amount of daemons needed. It was about quality over quantity. The stronger the daemon, the stronger the malevolence. So those daemons will be the ones to succeed, becoming even more powerful. That made sense but why. Why would the Abbey allowed this to happened. Including sacrificing the lives of their own exorcists. Blue eyes widened at the realization. Maybe there was a valid reason behind it.

While traveling the group was surprised to see the White Turtlez in a corner. It was very strange he will be here, of all places. Still they didn't wasted the opportunity. Jaune took advantage of his discount with the merchant and bought a couple of supplies they might need. They broke through another swarm of daemons in one of the prison hallways. It was still bothering the Arc why the Abbey abandoned Titania. If they were behind the venomization. Why leave the place like this. What kind of point will Artorius be proving by doing this. It was starting to mess with his head and he was thinking too much about it.

Entering a cell section there was somebody at the end. A daemon armor in black lacking a head, similar to Kurogane. It was holding an axe matching the colors of it's armor. Jaune knew it was no ordinary daemon. But it fitted the description in the dying exorcist's last words. Looks like they have finally found it. The boss of the area and the source of the venomization. But something was off. It felt strong but not something to match the daemons they have fought so far. Not even in the same level as a code red daemon. The Arc knew better than underestimating it. It was still a daemon.

(Music: "Daemon's Assault" from the Tales of Berseria original soundtrack)

"The Headless Knight!" said Laphicet.

"He must be the production of the venomization" said Velvet.

"Well, he definitely looks vicious enough" Rokurou released his short swords.

"Not as vicious as our Velvet, though!" said Magilou taking her guardian.

"That's for sure" followed Selene with a smirk, she readied an arrow on her bow.

"Where's his voice even coming from?!" asked the malak boy.

"I dunno, look inside?" said Eizen.

Jaune went with the usual strategy of having five members fighting on close range and having three at a distance. Selene, Laphicet and Magilou being the usual candidates casting long range artes. The remaining members went attacking the antique armor. It swung it's axe rapidly. Even if it looks heavy it didn't had a problem swinging it with such brute force. But against five skilled people. Two being daemons, a war daemon and a therion, an earth malak and two former praetors that neither were pushovers. The armor daemon was in for it. It was getting beaten badly as it immediately got paralyzed by the result of one of the party members artes.

Everything in combos, martial artes, arcane artes, break soul, break artes and even mystique artes. The daemon armor was having trouble focusing on so many opponents. Plus it was getting assaulted by the many long range artes from the others. Selene caste artes while unleashing a barrage of arrows with different elemental attributes. As the fight continues Jaune was starting to have doubts about this daemon. Was it really the one they were searching for. It sure didn't looked strong. At least other daemons while handle themselves well before they will eventually be defeated. But this one, was pretty different.

The Antique armor was paralyzed yet again. No other choice but resumed getting beat up by combos and artes. It was having such a hard time to attack. Neither of the party members went easy with the daemon. The Arc signaled to resumed their assault it was going to fall soon. A few break soul and break artes as it was on the ground but it was still moving. Velvet finished it off using her new mystique arte" annihilating crash". That was enough to beat the daemon armor before the therion devoured it.

(Music end)

"Well, that takes care of that" Rokurou sheathed back his swords.

"Was that really the strongest daemon created from the venomization?" asked Jaune.

"Has to be" replied the daemon swordsman.

"I feel something again" said Laphicet.

"An earthpulse point" Selene also felt it.

"Here?" the Arc realized at the cell on the ground" this is…."

"The earthpulse in Titania" said the malak girl.

"I sense it too. It's very close" said Eizen.

"Directly underneath us, I would guess" said the Crowe.

"You don't have to go down there" muttered the blond exorcist.

"It's fine" she didn't minded.

The party climbed down to the cell seeing that it was empty. Jaune felt uncomfortable being here. It gave him bad memories but it must be worse for Velvet. She spent in this cell for three years feeding on daemons. She was kept here as a prisoner of the Abbey, as a therion to feed malevolence for Innominat. It was after the Advent, after Artorius sacrificed her brother below the crimson moon. The long haired woman could still remember everything she did in this cell. When she wasn't eating daemons, she was training, honing her skills to be strong enough when the day comes to leave this place.

Jaune felt sorry for her. Just being in this cell for a few second was enough to give him chills down his spine. Then he imagined how it must have been for the Crowe. No fond memories, just the isolation, her strength growing from the daemons she took and how her hatred for Artorius will increased by the day. Laphicet took his compass the needle keeps pointing here. This was definitely the right place. Honestly the blond exorcist didn't wanted to come here, he wanted to ignore this place exist. While the long haired woman remained quiet staring around.

"What is this place?" asked Eleanor.

"An underground cell" it's all Jaune said.

"Welcome to the most secure cell in the entire complex. The darkest hole in Titania. Feel anything, Laphicet?"

"Yeah, I think this is the earthpulse point."

"It's right here, all right" Selene also felt it and it was the strongest reading.

"If this cell is where the earthpulse point is, then does that mean it housed a therion?" said the red head exorcist but she was gazing at Velvet.

The Arc couldn't take it anymore as he left and climbed up the stairs out of the cell.

"What's wrong with him?" asked Rokurou.

The girl malak shook her head refusing to say anything. Of course her master wouldn't like being here. Because it reminded him of his mistake in trusting Artorius's word. To not be able to do anything to save Velvet. To wait three years to finally do something. Even if the Crowe forgave him the archer girl could tell he was still feeling guilty.

"Don't mind him" said the daemon woman" this cell did housed a therion, and a real hungry one at that."

(Music: "Theme of Velvet" from the Tales of Berseria original soundtrack)

"Every day, they would toss daemons into its cell. It would devour its fill, then wipe the blood from its lips. Never once realizing it was delivering to Innominat the malevolence of hundreds of daemons and prisoners. And then one day there appeared it a female malak, who shattered the barrier and freed the therion from its cage. But the therion knew no mercy, and it devoured its liberator. And it was then…It was then I obtained the power to avenge my brother."

"You're the therion that escaped from this prison?" said Laphicet.

"She did admitted back at Haria village" said Rokurou.

"This prison island was a feeding ground for the therion, harnessing the malevolence created by the prisoners within" said Eizen.

"But because Velvet escaped, the malevolence went out of control" replied the daemon swordsman.

"The same thing would have happened to Kamoana's village if not" by a strange occurrence" quite the mystery I'm still asking myself" said Magilou.

"Lord Artorius would never have done such a thing…."

"Just OPEN your eyes already!" Selene snapped at the praetor" the one you called Shepherd, Savior, Lord...Is nothing but a murderer, a liar and he's willing to sacrifice countless innocent lives to achieve his ends. I know it, Jaune knows it, Velvet knows it, so it's time you finally know it! He killed her younger brother" the malak girl turned to the Crowe" with no mercy and that death cause the world to changed to the way it is now. Artorius doesn't care about anything but to awake Innominat. You already had a taste what will the world be once he's fully awaken. That man doesn't deserve your trust or respect Eleanor. How many people have to die before you realize the truth?"

"…."

The Crowe wanted to snapped badly at the praetor. She really wanted to give her a piece of her mind for all the pain she went through for losing her brother. But thanks to Selene's outburst taking her side, quite strange. She felt better and decided not to unleash her anger on the red head exorcist. Taking a glance at the archer malak. They may not see eye to eye most of the times but at least they will helped each other when it comes down to it.

"At any rate...That's one less therion for us to track down" said the female therion looking Eleanor.

"Velvet…." said Laphicet with worried eyes.

(Music end)

(Help…Eleanor!)

"Kamoana?!" the red head looked around hearing the voice of the therion girl.

"Guys!" Jaune called from above" I heard yelling coming from the front entrance. we have to go. Kamoana and the others could be in trouble!"

"But we already beat the headless knight" said the malak boy.

"Maybe there's another headless knight. The one we beat was really weak, to be honest" said Selene.

"It doesn't matter. Jaune's has a bad feeling too. Let's go!" said the praetor.


The party hurried back to the front entrance where they first entered. But it wasn't an easy way back. As they encountered more daemons. Leftovers from the venomization. They cut down all the creatures in a hurry. Eleanor growled as she pierced her spear into a gargoyle. She needed to go to Kamoana's side. She swore she heard her voice in her head, even if she didn't know why. The red head promised she will protect her no matter what. Just as she swore to protect Laphicet as his vessel. But the therion girl was different. It's because she was the one that delivered the killing blow on her mother.

That's why she felt responsible for the little girl. It's up to her to be there for her and look after her. She rushed through the hallways of the prison. Then she found out a truth while the others were talking. Artorius was married to Velvet's older sister named Celica. The same woman he sacrificed on the night of" The Opening", then he sacrificed her brother on the night of" The Advent", his brother in law and turned his sister in law into a therion. It was hard to believe the Shepherd would do such cruel thing. But it didn't mattered now. The red head hurry to the front entrance, she needed to see Kamoana.

Eleanor gasped as she heard screaming from nearby. It was definitely Kamoana. They were near. She ran ahead of the group as she reached the front entrance. The therion girl was fine along with Dyle, Kurogane and Prince Percival. But they had unwanted company. Before them stood a headless knight mounted on a daemon horse holding a powerful spear. The creature was releasing a lot of malevolence. Jaune and everyone saw it. The Arc realized this must be the daemon created from the venomization. It felt way stronger than the antique armor they defeated earlier.

"Kamoana!" she jumped from the railing getting in front of the girl.

The others followed with weapons drawn facing the strong daemon.

"Eleanor!" smiled Kamoana.

"I knew there was another headless knight. It was just too easy" said Selene.

"You really came back to me" smiled the therion girl.

"A promise is a promise, sweet heart" she smiled.

"A headless knight...On a horse daemon!" said Laphicet.

It's giving a ton of malevolence" said Eizen.

"This must be the true survivor of the venomization process" said Rokurou.

"It still doesn't explain why the Abbey went with venomization" said Jaune.

"Oooooooh, I get it! The dying lady exorcist wasn't saying" headless knight is back". She was going for" headless knight on horseback"" said Magilou.

"And how does that helps now?" Selene said annoyed.

"Whatever the case we'll fight whoever we have to to claim this island!" said Velvet.

(Music: "Daemon's Assault" from the Tales of Berseria original soundtrack)

Dullahan readied his spear as it charged straight at the party. They were able to dodged that but the headless knight went back again, faster than before. The group got hit while swinging it's spear in all directions. They were all precise attacks, that landed direct hits. It went using it's horse attacking them with it's front legs, then followed with it's break soul" Open Face". Jaune did his best using his shield to protect his companions, but too many got hurt. Eleanor, Eizen and Magilou. The rest fall back as Selene and Laphicet casting healing artes. First aid and heal on the wounded members. The Arc glared at the headless daemon rider, it was definitely stronger than the antique armor.

Velvet, Rokurou and Jaune went for the attack but it was hard to hit the headless knight when it was mounted on a horse. The daemon blocked their attacks while it got by the Crowe's break soul and break artes. The Arc followed catching the horse rider on a combo. The daemon swordsman did the same. It countered with open face hitting the three. Magilou was feeling better as she cast healing circle on the trio. Laphicet and Selene went with long range artes, Eizen and Eleanor recuperated joining the others on the assault. This daemon has already proven it was stronger and faster. A real challenge.

It's horse ran fast even if it was getting hit by powerful artes. It swung its spear at the group. Rokurou managed to blocked them and countered with his vengeful punishment break soul. The headless knight got hit, allowing for the others to go for the attack. But it wasn't enough to stagger or stun. The daemon resumed with it's assault and it got bad when some of the members got paralyzed from it's attacks. Eizen, Eleanor and Velvet jumped at the horse rider but he blocked all of their attacks with its spear. It also blocked all of Jaune's quick attacks, leaving him to go for the defensive. The long range artes weren't doing that much damage.

The Arc realized the headless knight had the advantage over them. It had the higher ground so it was difficult to attack it directly without hitting the horse. Their best bet will be to get the daemon off it's mount. Fighting it without the horse will be better. The group will be able to gain the upper hand. As the fight couldn't get any harder Dullahan had more tricks on it's metal sleeve. It has summoned reinforcements to join the battle. Two Antique Armor holding spears unlike the first one they fought that had an axe. The former praetor ordered the group to handle them while he went after the headless knight on his own.

Velvet was hesitant for a moment. She didn't like him fighting a strong daemon on his own. But then Selene came to her master's aid firing arrows and artes. She had his back so the therion went after the antique armor with Eizen, Rokurou and Eleanor. Magilou and Laphicet aided them with additional artes. Jaune changed Crocea Mors to great long sword mode, he was going to need it for sure. He quickly blocked Dullahan's attacks as he had a new target it mind. The blond exorcist went lightning blade, followed by super lightning blade on the daemon's horse. The former praetor had every intention to take out the mount first before going after the rider.

The headless knight used open face but the Arc countered with guardian field. He followed it up with his break soul demonic chaos, then went with one of his break artes sword rain alpha. All artes hit the horse and it was very effective as the creature was currently stunned. Still Dullahan was attacking but it wasn't moving due to it's mount being hurt. Jaune understood the whole party couldn't take this daemon on. Not without getting rid of the horse first. The headless knight went to summoned more antique armor on the others. Meaning the fight was getting more complicated than it already is. The blond knew he had to finish this and now.

Selene fired a barrage of fire, ice and lightning arrows on the horse while casting thunder blade. The mount was paralyzed leaving Dullahan unable to move freely. Jaune felt the power surge of his aura flowing all over his body, calling out to him. This is what it's like whenever he learns a new attack. He changed his weapon back to normal as he focused a lot of his aura into his shield and his body. The blond charged at rapid speed as his shield was shining with his aura. The Arc's new mystique arte has rammed the horse head removing it's rider. A success hit as his malak cheered and the others watched for a moment. Velvet among them, gave a small smile.

"You can't block! Feel the wrath of my aura! Righteous Charge!"

Jaune ended his new second mystique arte with a powerful sword strike taking down the horse. The Crowe took her chance to devoured the mount leaving Dullahan alone. By now the others have defeated the antique armor. Leaving the party to face off with the headless knight. The Arc gave the command to everyone as they all unleashed their mystique artes on the daemon. All their first mystique artes hit the creatures eventually killing it. Part of its armor fell off hitting the ground, next to Kamoana.

(Music end)

"That's venomization, all right. Definitely stronger than that headless lump of armor" Rokurou sheathed back his swords.

"I beg your pardon" Kurogane felt offended.

"Not YOU" sweat dropped the daemon swordsman.

Kamoana screamed seeing the chest armor of Dullahan was still alive. It was releasing a lot of malevolence.

"Kamoana!" said Eleanor.

The red head wasn't going to make it. But the flying bird daemon from the royal village attacked it and started consuming it's malevolence.

"The daemon from the villa?!" said Velvet.

"No, look, it's absorbing the malevolence, it's a therion" said Magilou.

"Actually, that hawk is Griffin. My one and only friend" said Percival.

"A damned therion…So that's what Tabathan meant when she said we'd" find out" shortly" said the Crowe.

"But your highness, why do you have a therion?" asked the red head exorcist.

"It's like I said, Griffin has been my dear friend ever since I was a child. Even if he's a therion now, that hasn't changed."

The therion has transformed back to its original hark form flying around.

"So you knew you were helping a therion escape. What are you plotting?" asked Eizen.

"I have no plots or schemes. I just want Griffin to be free."

"I guess we shouldn't be surprised! The crown prince and future king, he's gonna do whatever he likes" said the witch.

"Hehe...I suppose I am, at that. But if I am, it's the first time I've ever been allowed a choice on my own. When you're a prince, you're not a person. You're an institution, one designed to serve that state and it's people. Say, for instance, your doing your law studies and your back suddenly itches. What do you do?"

"I mean, I'd scratch it...Who wouldn't?" said Laphicet.

"When I did that, my tutor gave me a whipping so hard, the blood ran down on my back."

"For just scratching your own back?!" Selene was so shocked.

"It sounds ridiculous I know. But the reason being that I prioritized a personal feeling, that is to say my itch, over my studies in service of the state. Seeing Griffin lay claim to the skies let me imagine my own freedom. It was my lone solace over the years. But then...He turned out to be responsive to Innominat's power."

"I take it the Midgand royal family is well aware that the Abbey is creating therions?" asked Velvet.

"Of course. How could we not? The kingdom offers unequivocal support to Shepherd Artorius's vision of reason and will. Even so, if there was one thing I could never permit, it was seeing Griffin locked up and unable to fly. Never."

"That's why you set him free. I bet it was you who told Tabatha the therion got relocate it. So she pretended she didn't know of it's new location" Jaune understood his reasons but he had a feeling there was more to it.

"Indeed. I tricked the exorcist on guard and disabled the barrier. But then Griffin attacked the exorcist...And killed him."

"That's why you say you could never go back" said Laphicet.

"Eh, they can overlook a single dead exorcist. But with the therion removed, malevolence will engulf the capital" said Magilou.

"I knew full well what I was doing. And yet...I couldn't watch my friend's life be stripped away."

"Your Highness" said Eleanor feeling sorry for him.

"He chose a single bird over the world…." muttered Velvet.

"Sometimes we're willing to sacrifice everything for one person or an animal" Jaune muttered back gazing at the black haired woman.

"Why do you think that birds fly?" the female daemon asked the prince.

"That's what Lord Artorius asked me!" said the red head.

"He asked me the same thing" followed the Arc.

"My anatomy book says birds fly because their bones are light and their wing muscle are enormously strong" said Laphicet.

"Birds fly because a bird that cannot fly is no bird at all. That's what I think" said Percival.

"I understand now. As long as you remain on this island, you may do as you please" said the Crowe" but if you try to escape, I'll kill you."

"That should work. This way we'll have him on hand if we ever need a hostage" said Eizen.

"Understood. I appreciate you letting Griffin and me stay here."

"Well, now THAT'S taken care of, let's build ourselves a hideout!" said Rokurou.


Hours went by as the pirate crew brought many things from the Van Eltia. They wanted to decorate their official new hideout. Of course everyone from the party helped in adding a few stuff. Like ingredients for cooking, Kurogane wanted to built a forge. Other pirates wanted clean sheets to use the cells as rooms. It was their way of making the prison island more comfortable and fit their taste. Though it will take time before it comes a more acceptable hideout. Not just for the crew but for the therions too. Selene watched everything with a smile on her face. It felt weird but she has come to see these people as close friends.

Everyone was precious to her, Rokurou, Laphicet, Eizen, Eleanor, Magilou. Velvet was another story but she could at least work with her when the time comes. Speaking of the Crowe she was talking to Kamoana. The therion girl told her she didn't know where Eleanor was, she sounded worried. The daemon woman obviously volunteered to search for the exorcist because she didn't wanted to hear the girl cry. Once she left the malak girl thought this as the perfect chance to talk to the therion girl. The malak was nervous at first, but she needed to do this or she will regret it later. The archer gave her best smile approaching her.

"Kamoana…."

"Oh, hi Selene" the therion girl smiled.

"I...I'm sorry…."

"What for?" she blinked.

"You know...For what I did. About saying your mom is gone. I know I can sometime say things without thinking because my mouth is faster than my mind. I just didn't wanted you to live in a lie. Your mom loved you very much, she gave her life for you. I know it sounds harsh but she wanted you to go on living. Because she was willing to sacrificed herself to keep you alive. It doesn't matter how different you look on the outside, you're still Kamoana on the inside."

Her speech has made her teared up" Selene...Thank you. I missed my mommy, I really do. But you're right. She loved me that much, I can't just sit by and cry forever. I have to be strong for her sake and for everyone. You and Eleanor would want me to go on. Even if I'm not human anymore…."

"You're still human on the inside. Don't ever feel left out. I mean Dyle and Kurogane looked so different but they're still the same people before they became daemons. It's the same for you."

"You're right I'm still me" she smiled" though it's going to take some getting used to."

"So...You don't hate me for telling you the truth about your mom?"

"Mommy will always watch over me. That's what Eleanor told me because, that's what her mommy told her. I believe in her, and I will also believe in you."

Selene teared up as she quickly hugged the therion girl" you're not alone anymore, you hear me? You don't just have Eleanor, you have me and everyone else. I don't know about the others, but I will try hard to be your friend and maybe…Your family. Sure I could never replace your mom or Eleanor. But we will try our hardest. We will always be there for you when you need someone to talk to."

"Thank you…." Kamoana also teared accepting the hug" I don't have to feel alone anymore. Because I have new people to care for. Mommy will be happy for me…."

"She sure would be" the malak girl felt so much relief now.


Jaune went to take some time for himself after the group made the island prison their hideout. He went to take a stroll through the hallways of correctional complex. Not the best place for a hideout but it will have to do. Right now the Abbey were clueless about this place. The blond was in thought about the venomization. The headless knight on a horse, Dullahan. That was the final product of the process. The Arc was sure the Abbey was trying to create another therion. The daemon horse rider was probably the perfect candidate. With Velvet gone, they will need a new therion for this earthpulse point.

The former praetor walking into the most secure complex of the entire prison. His blue eyes were on the underground cell. That was once Velvet's prison, where she spent three years locked up here. His thoughts were on the Crowe. Since he first met her, those sinx months he spent living in Aball village with her. With Laphicet, with the villagers and with Arthur. His eyes narrowed thinking of the exorcist. His life in Remnant and here wasn't any different. Well, they weren't the same because he wasn't the same person from his home world. The blond thought of getting some rest before they head out again.

"Not joining the others?"

Jaune turned to see Velvet walking to him" I thought you'd be happier that we finally claimed this place for our hideout."

"Can't tell if you're being sarcastic this time. You know, this was the last place I had in mind to have for a hideout. It doesn't get any more ironic than this."

"Like I said. Sometimes the answer is right under our noses. I just talked to Eleanor. She has sure changed. It's like she now knows what to fight for."

"I knew she was going to make the right choice all along" he smiled before turning to the long haired woman, raising an eyebrow" you went to look for her? What's the special occasion?"

"Kamoana asked me to find her. I can't say no to a crying child. That's all."

"Okay. To me, sounds like you're starting to get along with her. I can't even say you're starting to care-"

"No, I don't. She's still an exorcist from the Abbey. She's an enemy no matter how you look at it."

"I'm still an exorcist of the Abbey."

"Your case is different than hers. You were never loyal to Artorius or his vision" the therion crossed her arms.

"Anyway. I'm glad you're at least making the attempt to try and get along with her."

"She's different from us."

"I'd say she's the same in some ways. More than you think. But that's just my opinion."

Velvet kept staring at him as her eyes suddenly fell on the cell door on the ground" why are you here?"

"Just taking a stroll through the prison. Gotta make sure there aren't any daemons left."

"And you suddenly stopped here. Right underneath my cell. Coincidence?"

"Just thinking…." he couldn't lie to her, at least to a degree.

"About the past? Regretting your actions won't change anything. It's the past and it's been done. None of us can do anything."

"I'm just angry, I guess frustrated is the more fitted word. At Remnant, I wasn't just weak, I was the leader of my own team. And still, I couldn't prove myself enough. Maybe in the eyes of my teammates I was a good leader. But I didn't saw it that way. I felt like I didn't do enough. Eventually, there was nothing I could do to protect them during the attack on Beacon. Now, here. I feel like it's the same thing. I became strong but I couldn't do anything to prevent the Advent, Laphicet, you. To get you out out of Titania earlier. Somehow...I feel like things haven't changed at all. I'm stronger but I'm getting the same results."

The daemon woman only smacked him slightly on the back of his head" fool. It's in the past, it's done. You have to learn to stop thinking about it. Move on."

"And you? Don't you think about the past? I-I'm sorry Velvet I didn't-"

"Of course I'm always thinking about the past. But I have to let it go at one point. I will have to move on eventually, just like you. We focus on right now. And that's finding the therions, prevent Innominat's reawakening and kill Artorius."

"I know what you mean" the Arc sighed decided to bring the topic" have you realize, this journey has been rather...Easy?"

"Define" easy"? Fighting code red daemons and therions doesn't fit the word."

"I mean when it comes to the Abbey. We've been taking therions and the exorcists are rarely doing anything to try and stop us" the blond kept staring at her as she was in thought" we encountered Shigure but he could care less about what Artorius say, Melchior was only interested in Zaveid's weapon again, he wasn't here for us and now Oscar. He was only interested in the therion. Kamoana was his main concern, not us. You think after everything we've done so far, we would have become thorns in their plans? If we were a threat to Artorius, he would have done something by now. The fact he hasn't done anything yet...It worries me."

"Maybe he doesn't have the man power. Between guarding the therions and going after us. He doesn't have enough experienced exorcists to pull the job."

"That's what I thought at first. Or it could be that he's planning something even bigger and we're the least of his worries. Or maybe he knows we can't stop him and we're really wasting our time."

"Or maybe you're over thinking things" the Crowe crossed her arms again" you should stop while you still can before you over stress yourself. Of all of us, I think you need a break the most."

"I'm sorry if I'm over reacting but...I don't want to fail again. I failed my friends once and I'm sure as hell I don't want to fail you guys. You're all my friends in this world. Rokurou is a daemon but he's good and reliable, Eizen is strong and worthy to be called comrade, Magilou is weird and annoying but even what she did to me in the past, I see her as a friend of sorts, Laphicet is innocent but he's trying so hard to find his place in this world, I will always respect someone like him, Selene is my malak and family, Eleanor is a good friend I can always rely on and, there's you…."

"What?" Velvet seemed to get upset all of the sudden" what about me?"

"You….I…." Jaune started blushing.

"What is it? Tell me? What am I to you?"

"Please don't make me say it…." he was getting embarrassed.

"What am I to you Jaune?!" she snapped.

"You're the most important person in my life!" he shouted back before he gasped at what he has said.

The black haired woman's anger faded away in an instant. Chest nut eyes widened in shock, her facial features was clearly of shock. Her cheeks burned red and for a moment, she forgot to speak, she forgot to breathe. Jaune thought he made a mistake shouting something so personal like that. But he couldn't tell just by watching her. Well, she wasn't upset that he could tell. The female daemon seemed to have calm down a little. Looking at him, she needed to go, she just wanted to get away from here. Her stupid heart was beating fast again, with mental curses. As she walked off, she turned to him.

"Velvet…?" the Arc was nervous due to her silence.

"You're also...The most important person in my life…." she knew she was blushing, she couldn't say it with a straight face and with that, she walked off.

No words for the blond exorcist. He just stood there as if he was rotted to the ground, and blushed. Her words kept repeating in his head. It was the most wonderful thing he has ever heard.

"Today has definitely been a good day."


"Killing Artorius comes first…."

Velvet took a turned in a cell hallway as she stood on a wall. She was only thinking about what she just said to Jaune. But WHY did she said it. Was it because he told her, was it because the honesty in his voice, was it because she feels the same way. She gritted her teeth, her eyes narrowed as her bandaged arm hit the stone wall. Since when has this become into such a personal matter. This was about her revenge, this was about killing the man who killed her little brother. This crusade, journey was about ending his life and getting justice for Laphicet. But now, she was starting to have doubts. But she shouldn't, vengeance was her priority, it was her whole life.

"This shouldn't be happening…." her thoughts were on the blond exorcist as she growled punching the stone wall again" damn you Jaune...Damn THESE feelings!"


Jaune decided to return to the front entrance of the prison. By now, he was able to get rid of the blushing on his face. Obviously he was still thinking what Velvet told him. His eyes were on Grimoirh. The gray normin decided to let Laphicet take a break from teaching him the ancient language of Innominat's book. The blond decided to walk to her, he did needed to talk her. Selene was nowhere on sight. She was probably with Kamoana, the malak girl has grown attached to the therion girl. The malak got her eyes off the book as she was staring at the blond exorcist.

"Is there something I can help you with Jaune?"

"There is. I know you're very busy with deciphering Innominat's book. But, I have a favor to ask of you."

"A favor? Depends on what kind of favor you have in mind."

The Arc nodded as he took an old worn out book from his pouch" I was wondering if you could take a look at this book. Whenever you have the time."

Grimoirh's eyes widened at the sight of the book. She quickly closed Innominat's book. Her small hands touched the new one, her eyes were all over the cover. Opening it, she was more shocked passing through the worn out pages.

"My goodness...This tome is even older than the previous one. Of course it is written in ancient Avarost however, the pages are barely visible. If you want me to decipher it. This one will be a much harder task than deciphering Innominat's tome."

"I was afraid you were going to say that" the blond nodded" if you can do it. I will be forever in your debt, Grimoirh."

"Usually it wouldn't be in my interest. After all I am only teaching the young malak Laphicet to read ancient Avarost to decipher Innominat's tome. Your asking me to decipher this one by myself. Although, depending on the progress I have made with my pupil. He can decipher it for you if-"

"No" Jaune immediately responded" the contents of this book. I don't want anyone to know about it. Even if it's almost impossible to decipher. I only want YOU to do it."

"Hmm...Now you're asking for a lot Jaune Arc. Is there any specific reason you don't want anyone else besides me to know of its contents?"

"I know what it's all about. I traveled for so long to find it. Heck, I was lucky I was able to get my hands on it. But I know if there's one being in this world that can decipher it. It's you Grimoirh. No one else."

"Hmm…." the gray normin stood in thought passing through more of the pages" now, I would usually refuse when I won't get anything in return. Too much work on a girl like me is tiresome and boring. This tome however, has deeply caught my interest. The material of the hard cover, the design of the pages, and the writing style. Even if it's indeed ancient Avarost, it was written in a different or rather, peculiar matter. After taking a better look at it. There's no doubt this tome's origins comes from the Dark Ages."

"Does that mean you will do it? Will you give it a shot and try to decipher it?" the Arc was looking so hopeful.

"It's not everyday a very rare and old tome gets handed to me. I will see what I can do. But I make no promises due to it's lack of clarity. It is truly very old."

"Thank you Grimoirh" he smiled.

"If I am successful in deciphering it. I do hope you explain to me your actions for knowing of it's contents. It seems you want to keep this a secret from anyone."

"We can talk about that once you made some progress with it. But anyway, thanks again" he felt so grateful.

"Don't thank me yet. The hard part hasn't even started."


To be continued

-Looks like it's getting harder for Velvet to focus on her revenge and her feelings for Jaune. I'm going somewhere with this don't worry. It's basically frustrating because she knows she has to kill Artorius but it's getting so hard to keep her feelings hidden. She knows her revenge is too important than focusing on those feelings, this will lead to some angst in the future.

-Righteous Charge is Jaune's second mystique arte and an original one. I forgot who was the one who told me about it.

-As for the book Jaune wants Grimoirh to decipher. That will remain a secret for the time being. Yet another mystery in the story sorry lol.

-Replying to reviews:

*hnh058513- won't say a word no spoilers but everything will be clear out further in the story.

*The Emerald Mage- haha I knew you were going to like that part of Velvet licking her gauntlet blade. I also find it hot she's just perfect. Emo, broodish, avenger, she's the perfect waifu. And like I said all the mysteries and questions will eventually be answered and revealed further in the story.

-I'm still open for suggestions for Selene's second mystique arte.

-Please keep supporting ZonZus's art based on this story at his deviant art page. If you don't know the address then PM me and I will send it to you.

-As always thank you very much for all the favs, follows and reviews I really appreciate it.

Next time: Fishing and the Pact