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 38 Teresa's Resolve
(Location: Titania Island Prison Midgand Empire)
Velvet gasped as she stood at the Shrine of Tranquility. She was holding for the dear life of Laphicet on one hand. On the other she was holding onto her brother Laphi. She tried so hard to pull them up, she couldn't lose either of them. But if this keeps up, she will surely lose her grip and will end up dropping them. The malak boy cried her name in fear, while her brother did the same, begging her to save him. Jaune was next to her, he shouted" you can only save one. You can't have both". Tears formed struggling with holding them, struggling with the weight of the decision. The Crowe wanted them both to live, this was too much for her to bear. But the Arc was right, she couldn't save both.
With her mind made up, Velvet chose to help one of them as everything went black. Chest nut eyes opened waking up. Realizing she was in her bed from one of the cells of the prison. They were back in Titania. The last thing she remembered was leaving the arena from the class four island. But she was feeling so much better now. It's like she has rested enough to have her strength and energy back. Looking she Laphicet resting in a corner. The malakhim decided to sleep here instead of his cell. It made the black haired woman frowned but at the same time, she smiled. He was probably watching over her while she slept. The boy must have been so worried he wanted to stay here instead of being in his room.
The young boy started stirring in his sleep, until he finally wake up. His eyes widened seeing the long black haired woman awake, she was frowning at him. Like she wasn't happy with him sleeping here. But Laphicet didn't care as he hugged her, shocking her. It was enough for her anger to vanished, was he that worried of her. It's not like she was resting for a while. Turning to the entrance of the cell she saw Jaune and Selene behind him. The malak girl was pouting at her, there was no way she was worried about her too. The smile of the Arc was of relief, he was happy to see her up. Now she was wondering what was going on.
"Urgh...Where am I?"
"We're back in Titania. How are you feeling?" said Jaune.
"I'm...Better, actually."
"You've been out for three days" Laphicet broke the hug.
"And what were you doing sleeping here?" she frowned again.
"I was worried…."
"Yeah. For a moment, I thought you were dead" replied Selene while her master rolled his eyes.
"Then that's three days wasted. What's the situation?"
The malak boy turned to the blond worried. Obviously the Crowe won't care of her own well being but the journey.
"There's a reason why you were out for three days. Ever thought, that maybe you're over stressing yourself? That you're so focused on the mission that you're not getting enough rest."
"I rested enough. For three days."
"Yeah. After you collapsed, remember? If I knew you were that tired I would have never suggested going to that class four island."
"What's the situation?" she asked again being stubborn.
Laphicet turned to the blond exorcist and he nodded to him that it was okay to tell her. Because otherwise she will keep on asking because she was THAT stubborn.
"For one thing, Grimoirh's been deciphering that ancient book. She says that this new copy is complete. All the pages that were missing are there."
"We already knew that" said the malak girl.
"As for Orthie and Russ, Kamoana's taken a real shine to em'" added Laphicet smiling.
"She likes them a lot just like me" smiled the archer girl.
"All right, then. Now we need to find that last therion…."
"Velvet no-" the malak boy started but he was interrupted by Jaune.
"Can you two leave us alone for a moment?" it wasn't a request it was an order.
Selene recognizing the tone of her master's voice, he was serious. She took Laphicet's hand taking the bout out of the cell. A short silence fell between the two. Velvet looked at him, that look in his eyes. She could tell he wasn't happy. Having the Arc upset was never good, she would rather have the usual blond. Anyway, she knew she was in for a lecture. Because that's what his entire face was saying. They might get into an argument, that's more time being wasted instead of focusing on the mission. The silence continued and she was starting to get inpatient by it.
"Well, what?"
"Can you promise me that from now on, you will get enough rest? I don't want you collapsing again while we're on this journey."
"I'm fine now."
"After three days, sure. But promise me Velvet. What if the next time you collapse we're in the middle of a big fight, like a code red daemon or someone strong from the Abbey?"
"I'll be fine. I promise I'll get enough rest so I don't collapse again. There, you happy?"
"You know Laphicet haven't eaten yet. He almost spent those three days watching over you."
"He what?" the long black haired woman gasped before glaring at him" why didn't you feed him?"
"I cooked for him plenty of times and he kept insisting that he won't eat, until you wake up. Looks like you're not the only one who's stubborn."
"You're more stubborn than the two of us put together" the daemon woman hide her grin.
"You should be glad I am. At least someone can remind you that even if you're a daemon now. You STILL need rest like humans do. And if it's not me, it will be Laphicet who will remind you."
"Anything else you want to bring?" the Crowe got up from her bed crossing her arms.
"I'm only doing this because I worried about you and I care. I'm not doing this on purpose, to make you angry."
"I know" her features softened as she smiled" thanks."
"Don't thank me. Thank Laphicet. He was more worried than me."
"Will do. Sorry to keep you all waiting on me. Get everyone together, we meet now."
After Jaune cooked for Laphicet and everyone from the crew. The party got together at the front of the prison. The malak boy was sure feeling better after he filled out his stomach with the Arc's great cooking. He had a talk with Velvet where she apologized to him and told him she will be more careful next time, and she will get more rest. That was sure some good news. Now that Orthie and Russ were safe, the group went back with their mission. Though the former praetor was still bothered about the encounter with Pyrrha and Ruby. It was still haunting him, even in his dreams. The blond exorcist knew it won't be the last time he will see them. Melchior will use them again to his advantage against as a sign of his weakness.
"OK, Phi, I need you to find us our next earthpulse point" said Velvet.
The malak boy nodded taking out his compass as he tried to focus to find one. Again he was having the same problem that he couldn't pin point out the larger ones. He had better luck with Selene helping him.
"Um...Selene, think you can give me a hand again?"
"Oh" the archer girl gave a fake smile" nah, you got this Laphicet. Go for it."
The boy stood hurt. She didn't wanted to help him, it was strange. The two times she helped him, she was always so eager to aid him. But now, it was different. It felt different and this journey has helped him to get to know her well. And he could tell there was something off about her. Velvet noticed his sad expression and gave a quick glare at the malak girl. Then she gazed at Jaune as she was telling him to talk to her later. If there was one thing the Crowe couldn't take is seeing Laphicet sad. Yet, he focused on that big earthpulse point as his compass's needles was spinning fast, until it stopped.
"I found one. But it's really, really far, way up in the northeast."
"Hmm...If it's that far out, it has to be in Endgand" said Eleanor.
"Endgand is a collection of small islands. There's a comparatively bigger one called" Lionel Island", but that's the exception" said Eizen.
"Yeah...I think the earthpulse point's probably out there" said Laphicet.
"See, you did it all on your own. You really didn't needed me for this one" Selene gave him a thumbs up with a smile.
"She's obviously worried about seeing his memories. And that he has probably sees some of hers. Maybe I shouldn't have told her" thought the Arc with some regret.
"Endgand, huh? Those waters are haunted by ghost ships, you know" said Magilou.
"Ghost ships?" the malak boy paled.
"Yep. Legend has it they snatch up wrongdoers who bear lingering regrets and whisk them away to that eternal voyage" resumed the witch.
"That...Doesn't sound promising."
"Currents from all over the world converge in Endgand's waters, so a lot of shipwrecks from distant seas end up their final resting place" said the pirate malak.
"Aha. Ah, so that's where the stories of ghost ships come from" said Rokurou.
"Boo, you guys have no imagination" said the witch.
"I'd rather they stay imaginary, myself" said the daemon swordsman.
"I think its ridiculous to be believing in ghost stories. Especially when people make them up, they're spread as rumors and they exaggerate, blowing them into proportions. So don't worry Laphicet, because any kind of story you hear is false" said Jaune.
"We should still be careful" said the malak boy.
"We'll be fine. Ghost ship, exorcist, whatever comes along...We'll be the ones to administer their last rites" said Velvet.
"Straight forward as always" smiled the blond exorcist turning to Selene, but the malak girl didn't looked good.
"Just one therion to go" said the Crowe to herself" when I escaped, Seres told me that Artorius could "still be killed". That means she must have known everything...That Innominat is incomplete, how therions work..."
"I think so too. But It won't be easy with Innominat aiding him" Jaune added" we can't forget what happened when we fought him at the Empyrean's Throne."
"That was then. We have gotten stronger since that time. If we take the last therion from the earthpulse point. We'll be able to put a stop to Innominat."
"Yeah…." a soft sigh escaped from the blond exorcist's lips.
"Mainly. Why did she betrayed Artorius? Why did she give me her strength? I know that try as you might, some fires can never fully be extinguished...But what made you go so far as to feed yourself to me? Tell me...Why did you do it, sis-"
"Velvet. I think Seres got her free will on her own somehow. They say it's very hard for malakhim that have been reincarnated to remember the memories of their past lives. But there's a chance she remembered who she was in her past life. An older sister would do anything for her younger sibling. Even if it means betraying the man she once loved."
"How would you know?" the long black haired woman turned to him.
"I...Maybe I should tell you know. Though Seres told me not to tell you. That day, I was patrolling the capital, when she appeared before me. At first, I thought she has lost her way from her master. But I was so wrong."
It was just another day for Jaune as an exorcist. Being sent as a patrol wasn't really his style. Especially if the place to patrol is Loegres. The capital was the safest and most secure city in the entire continent. Not to mention he was a praetor. This kind of job is for the orderlies not someone on his rank. Things got strange when he saw Seres all alone. Usually he will always see her next to Artorius since she was his malak. And it got even stranger when she appeared next to him, whispering in his ear to come to the garden area in the park. At this hour there weren't any people around.
Not sure what was going on, the Arc obeyed and went to the capital's park. The garden was very secluded from the city. Specially from security. No guards or exorcists around. Which it was really strange why the red head masked malakhim wanted to meet him here. There was also her way of acting was off. She will barely say a word but now, he was starting to question what was wrong. The blond finally arrived at the garden as Seres stood next to the beautiful decorated benches. Her gaze was on him and even with her mask on, Jaune could tell there was something different about her.
"I thank you for coming Jaune."
"Seres...What's all of this? I mean you're-"
"I'm sure you have a lot of questions. You're mainly confused and I don't blame you. But my reason for calling you here is...I'm about to tell you something very important."
"OK...Are you all right? It's just you're acting so…."
"Normal?" a smile spread her lips" all malakhim of the Abbey have their will sealed, to prevent them from showing their emotions or personality. I, on the other hand, managed to reclaimed my will. That is why I'm acting like this. This is my true self."
"I don't mind. It sure is a hell of an improvement from how you used to be. But that doesn't explain why calling me here."
"First. Let me ask you a personal question. Do you love Velvet?"
"Hm…." the question caught him off guard as his cheeks turned red" what does that has to do with anything?"
"Everything. Please I need to know your answer."
"I...Yes, I love her...A lot. She's the reason why I joined the Abbey."
"True" the red head malak nodded" your loyalties are only to her and not Artorius or the Abbey. Which is the reason I have chosen to tell you a few pieces of information that are very important. It might change your fate within the Abbey."
"What are you talking about Seres? You're only confusing me more."
"You must know that some malakhim that are reincarnated is less likely they can regain their memories from their past lives. Not just I have regained my will, but my past memories as well."
That really shocked Jaune as he continued to listen.
"In my past life I was once Celica Crowe."
"Celica?! Velvet's sister. You…."
"The night of the Opening Celica was sacrificed as part of the ritual to awaken the Empyrean Innominat. In returned I was born…." the masked malak hesitated like she wanted to add more.
"Celi-I mean Seres. Why are you telling me this?"
"Because I'm leaving the Abbey. I'm betraying Artorius. I cannot stand by his side anymore."
"What?" Okay seriously, he didn't saw that coming.
"Regaining the memories of my past life was the reason I was able claimed my free will. I can't continue to serve him. I'm leaving to Titania to set Velvet free."
"No you can't!" the Arc gasped" if you attempt to free her Artorius might kill-"
"Rest assure Jaune. He has no reason for such. That's the other thing I want to tell you. Artorius needs Velvet alive and he has no intentions to take her life. Let's just say she's important for Innominat's awakening."
The blond stood shocked, speechless for a moment.
"I'm sorry. But he has lied to you all along. Though I still don't know why he chose to make you his apprentice. He has deceived you."
"He...That bastard" he growled in anger" he knew how loyal I am to Velvet and I would do anything as long as she was safe. All of this training...For nothing!"
"Not for nothing. With your new found strength you can help Velvet. After what happened during the Advent three years ago there's only hatred and grief in her heart. The only thing in her mind is revenge on her brother's murderer."
"I get it. You want me to help her get revenge on Artorius."
"Not quite. I want you to help her through the pain she's going through. I know she trusts you and cares for you. If there's one person that can get through to her, is you Jaune."
"Why are you doing this, betraying Artorius and letting me know the truth? Are you doing this for Velvet?"
"Yes" her tone was somber" when I reclaimed Celica's memories, I was able to remember everything. Her entire life and how much she loved her family so much. Even Artorius, she loved him with all of her heart. No matter the fate that awaited her, by his own hands."
"And yet you're going to betray him."
"I must. The path he has chosen is the wrong one. Bringing Innominat isn't what this world needs. Just like you my loyalties are only for Velvet."
"You feel guilty" the Arc realized the truth" you think its your fault for what happened three years ago."
"It is my fault! I'm to blame for the death of her brother. I stopped her from coming to his aid. I helped Artorius killed him. I'm responsible for his demise as much as him."
Jaune stood shocked as tears escaped from underneath her mask.
"I must make amends. By letting Velvet go and help her escape Titania. I'm willing to give anything. Even my own life."
"What are you saying?" the blond exorcist was still shocked.
"An attempt at redemption. I can't live with myself any longer. The only thing I can do is lend her my strength."
"You're not planning to…."
"If its the only way to make her strong enough to fight Artorius, then it shall be done. Please Jaune, help her. Don't let her face this burden on her own."
"You got it. I'm leaving the Abbey too. I'm done with letting that bastard using me as his lapdog."
"You have my gratitude. I'll be heading out."
"Wait, now? At least wait for me. You'll have better chances to infiltrate the prison island with me accompanying you."
"I know my way around Titania" she smiled" thank you Jaune. Keep her safe."
"Seres wait!" it was too late the red head malak has teleported away.
Selene teleported from Jaune's body appearing next to him, her master was in thought.
"What are you going to do? Are you really leaving the Abbey?"
"Damn right I am. You and me have an important mission Selene."
"I'd say it's about time. I was never fond of the Abbey in the first place. You can count on me!"
"We're heading to Titania. But I don't want to risk taking a ship from the Abbey. We need something less suspicious like a fisherman's boat. Let's head to Port Zekson. Seres already has a big head start over us."
After Jaune finished telling her the story Velvet stood in tears. She was truly the reincarnation of her older sister. And she's been blaming herself for what happened to Laphi when she reclaimed her past memories. Of course the Arc left out the part where he told Seres he loves her. Now it wasn't the time for that. But he felt bad for telling her this, now. He was hoping she doesn't get mad at him for keeping this a secret just like being from another world. The blond sighed putting his hands on her shoulder. How to apologize, how to explain to her it wasn't his intention to leave this important information away from her. But her expression was of sadness, this revelation has truly hit her.
"I'm sorry. I know I should have told you this a whole lot sooner. You had every right to know. And it's not that I was keeping it from you. I mean, you've been through enough already. Then what happened at Aball with Melchior's dream arte. I just didn't wanted to add more pain or wounds to you, whatever. Point is, Seres blamed herself for what happened to Laphicet. Because she prevented you from saving him that night. She wanted you to stop Artorius and she believed by sacrificing herself to you in lending you her power then, she atone for what she did."
"It was never her fault" the therion dried her eyes" it was Artorius, it was always him. I could never hate her nor you."
"She knew very well what she was planning to do ever since she entered your cell. Once she entered Titania, she was never coming back out."
"Thank you for telling me Jaune" resolve was shining in her chest nut eyes" I will make sure her sacrifice won't be in vain."
Eizen walked over to the two" we're ready to head out to Lionel Island."
"Let's go. The final therion awaits" said the Crowe while the Arc nodded.
The journey to Lionel Island was truly long. Longer than their past trips. It was hinted before Endgand is located in the far northeast. So it's to be expected it was going to take longer than anticipated. The others were enjoying themselves while their reached their destination. Laphicet however, was paying attention to his compass. Focusing on his power, the needle kept pointing to the direction they were heading. Confirmed again that they were heading into the right place, Lionel Island. Though the malak boy was still feeling sad Selene refused to help him this time. Did he said something the malak girl didn't like. He was sure he hasn't said anything to offend her. So he didn't had a clue.
If that wasn't bothering him, it will be Velvet. The boy didn't like when she tried to take all the weight and burdens on her shoulders. Blaming everything on herself wasn't right. Just because the people putting were blaming her, calling her "Lord of Calamity". The Crowe was really a good person on the inside, who was suffered a lot after the death of her brother and the villagers of her home. Laphicet put his compass back on his pouch, once he was completely sure the earthpulse point they were looking for it was the one he sensed. His head was starting to hurt from thinking too much. Then he went to think about Selene again. A pout formed his lips, it did hurt when she refused to help him, he didn't know why.
The archer girl acted strange when she refused. She was smiling but something off about that smile. Over thinking things can sure give your head a pain. Worrying too much of his friends can be stressing and tiring. Velvet, Selene, maybe he cares so much for them. The daemon woman gave him a purpose and hope and the malak girl gave him a reason to cherish friendship. She was the reason why he started getting along with everyone else. Why to care for everyone, why they were all his friends. Now if he could somehow stopped thinking of her refusing to help him detect the earthpulse points. Too bad he didn't noticed Velvet walking over to him. Feeling a hand touched his shoulder the boy gasped.
"Velvet! Don't do that" he fumed.
"Sorry. Why are you being so apart from everyone?"
"I'm not. I was just making sure we're on the right direction. The earthpulse point is really coming from Lionel Island."
"Is that all?" nope she didn't bought it.
"I...Y-Yes…."
"You better not be lying to me Phi" the black long haired woman was serious.
The malak boy lowered his head" I don't want to lie to you…."
"What's wrong? If there's anything wrong, you can always tell me" the therion was truly grown fond of him.
"Maybe there is. Selene…."
"So this is about Selene? Is it because she didn't helped you locate the earthpulse point like last time?"
"That bothered me. But it's not really that" Laphicet gazed in the distance at the malak girl who was talking to Jaune, Magilou and Eleanor.
"Did she said something to hurt your feelings?" if that was the case Velvet was so going to have a long talk with the girl.
"N-No. I'm starting to think why she refused to help me. It must be about what I saw after the last time she boost my powers."
"What you saw?"
"I saw a vision during the last earthpulse point location, the one near Aball. Somehow, our powers synchronized and I suddenly had that vision."
"What kind of vision?" true Velvet got curious.
"I saw...A sword...It looked powerful. I've never seen it before."
The long haired woman stood in thought for a moment" are you sure it was a vision?"
"Well, yeah. What else would it be?"
"You said your and Selene's power synchronized. Maybe something triggered it."
"I don't know. But for a moment I was able to read her mind, her thoughts. It felt a little weird from the first time."
"Could it be what you saw was her memory?"
"Her memory…." the malak boy was now confused.
"Never mind. Let's not focus on things that don't matter. The mission comes first."
"Right."
"Hey, what are you guys talking about?" Eleanor walked in with the others.
"Just the earthpulse point" Velvet immediately brought the topic" one more therion."
"Right. This will be the last one" replied the red head exorcist.
Laphicet gazed ahead in the distance and was able to see something, he smiled" we're coming up on Lionel Island."
"So much for the ghost ships" the Crowe wasn't surprised after such a long journey and they didn't saw anything out of the ordinary.
"Should we expect another welcome party waiting for us again?" asked Rokurou.
"No, I had the Bloodwings spread rumor that were raiding an Abbey compound far, far from here" said Eizen.
"As far as plans go, that's better than nothing" said the female daemon.
"But still we shouldn't let our guard down. The Abbey must suspect we're heading here. That is, if there's really a therion on Lionel Island" said Jaune.
"Hmph, all this cloak-and-dagger...Give me a good old frontal assault any day" said the daemon swordsman.
"First mate, sir, there's a ship drifting ahead of us!" called out Benwick.
"A ghost ship?" Magilou was excited for some reason.
"It's an Abbey ship! Their flag—It's distress signal!" said the young pirate.
"Understood. Commence approach" replied the earth malak.
"Are you actually going to help an enemy ship?" asked Velvet.
"Yeah. It could be a trap. it's the oldest trick in the book" said Selene.
"A ship signaling distress has neither allies nor enemies. That's a code all seafarers abide by" said the pirate malak.
"But it could still be a trap" argued the malak girl.
"I actually agreed with Selene. It's an obvious trap" replied the black haired woman.
"Now that's a big shock" the Arc never thought to be seeing them agreeing on something.
"Not even pirates would use a distress signal for a surprise attack. 'Course, after we rescue a ship, we still strip 'em of everything they've got" said Benwick.
"Anyway, if it's a trap, we kill everyone on board. Simple" said Eizen.
"Tch. A waste of time, if you ask me" said the Crowe.
Jaune looked at the ship ahead his eyes narrowed" let's hurry up and board it. I don't like this."
The Van Eltia finally got closed to the Abbey ship. Nothing suspicious so far. Putting the plank the party infiltrated the enemy ship. Only to see orderlies and praetors downed. Jaune went on the bodies and they were still alive, for now, noticing they were sicked. From the look of things, they were ambushed. Somebody attacked them by surprise before they could even react. At a first glance it looked like Velvet and Selene were right of being an obvious trap. But they were wrong if this was the work of that sickness. The Arc could still remembered when he got half sicked and he had to drink that horrible medicine.
"Is this…." said Eleanor.
"The corsair's scourge!" said Laphicet.
"Benwick, do we still have any sale'tomah left?" asked Eizen.
"Yes sir! If this is their full crew, we should have enough on board to treat them."
"Now that you mention it, don't Abbey ships usually have a bigger crew?" asked Rokurou.
"These were all who were aboard when I hijacked the ship and made them set sail."
The group turned to see Teresa Linares walking to them. The praetor didn't seemed like she was in a stance to fight them. Jaune was shocked gazing at her. Did he just heard right, she "hijacked" the ship. That word doesn't fit with her character. Teresa was always" by the book" when it comes to the laws of the Abbey. She was the most strict one when it comes to obeying the rules. There is no way she would do this, unless she has completely lost her mind. Or maybe there was another reason. Her expression was filled with concern, not the usual hostile anger whenever she will see the enemies of the Abbey. Just what was going on. It sounded like a bad dream and it was hard for the blond exorcist to believe it.
"Teresa...Did I heard right just now, you" hijacked" this Abbey ship, you?" but he got worried seeing that she was also sicked.
"I knew I was being reckless, but I never expected we'd run afoul of the corsair's scourge…But you know? I'm glad we did, since it brought me to you."
"You can't be serious. You can't expect to fight all of us in your current condition" Jaune was shocked.
"No, no, I know you've won this one. Use me as you will."
"Something's definitely up" thought the former praetor" Teresa wouldn't be doing this without a good reason. She will never do something so reckless as to hijacked an Abbey ship. It's not her. Whatever her intentions are, she must be desperate."
"Use you?!" Laphicet was shocked.
"Don't bother asking. It's a trap" said Velvet.
"Hold it" said the Arc gazing at the young woman" what's going on Teresa? You would never resort to these kind of thing. You're far too clever and calculate to make such a mistake."
"You're correct. Same old Jaune, I guess you haven't changed at all. My reasons are just. Lionel Island is where you'll find Dis, a therion. My brother Oscar is guarding over it."
"We can handle him just fine."
"Why are you doing this? Why bother tell us valid information to the people who are enemies of the Abbey?" asked the blond exorcist.
"It's because...Oscar's acquired a powerful new arte, its a formula developed by Lord Melchior. The arte heightens a malak's power far beyond its normal limits. The effect is incredible. Normal artes don't even compare. Even if you were to win, you wouldn't come away unscathed."
Selene gasped in shock turning to her master, who seemed to be bothered by the information.
"I'll repeat Jaune's question. Why are you doing this?" asked the Crowe.
"The arte is still untested and imperfect. There's no guarantee its caster will survive the effects."
"So that's it" now the Arc understood her reckless actions" you're worried for his well being. You think this new arte will end up killing him."
"Yes. I don't want anything to happen to Oscar! If I'm your hostage, Oscar won't move against you. This will afford to snatch the therion and make your escape."
"That's why you came here. Risking getting sicked by the corsair's scourge" said the former praetor.
"As I said. This was something I wasn't expecting. Just take me with you. As long as I'm with you, Oscar won't try anything that will put my life at risk."
"You're willing to betray the Abbey?" said the daemon woman.
"Sounds impossible. But when it comes to Oscar, she's willing to do anything even if it means betraying the institution she has given her loyalties. Her loyalty for her brother is stronger than any of Artorius's teachings" the blond exorcist gave a nod.
"There's nothing in this world that could ever replace Oscar. I know you can't trust me...So don't give me your medicine...I'll place my life in your hands…." she went on her knees" just...Save Oscar…." she finally went unconscious.
"Lady Teresa!" said Laphicet.
"If true, this information will be use to us. For now, let's bring her aboard and give her the medicine" said Velvet.
"Its true. I know Teresa. Her brother means everything to her. Right now, the Abbey doesn't matter to her. Only Oscar, it's always been about keeping him safe" replied Jaune.
"We'll bring the sale'tomah to the other exorcist. But we'll leave them here afterwards" said Eizen.
"This new powerful arte she mentioned" thought Selene" is it possible...The one they warned me about?"
True to Benwick's words. There was enough of the sale'tomah medicine for the exorcists on board the ship and for Teresa. But as Eizen stated they left them on their own as they took the female praetor with them. Velvet was a bit hesitant of the idea, but she like having her as a hostage. True, Oscar won't try anything as long as they have her. Jaune volunteered to give the medicine to the young woman and just as he thought, she fainted while drinking it. Just seeing the bottle brought the Arc disgusting memories when he drank it. It was truly horrible and wishes to never drink it again. After that it didn't took them that long to finally reached Lionel Island. At least now, they knew there was a therion here.
The party left the ship as Benwick went ahead to check the tents that were ahead. They were still planning what to do with Teresa. Most of the members didn't like the idea. It could be a trap and the praetor's presence here could only mean, the Abbey already knew they were here. But even so, Oscar was expecting them since he's the one who was guarding the last therion. Either way, they were in the right place. And it was also going to be one of those dangerous trips, with the area filled with daemons along with a code red daemon. That's how it's been for them since they started this journey. One code red daemon after another.
"So, you're going to believe her story?" asked Magilou.
"An arte that boosts a malak's power far beyond its normal limits...Sounds like we might be in for a real fight" said Rokurou.
"And she said that Melchior developed it, too" added Eizen.
"Maybe this explains why he was so intent on acquiring hat Siegfried relic" said the witch.
"If this is all true, a frontal assault might not be the best idea" said the pirate malak.
"Oscar is expecting us. So there goes the element of surprise" said Jaune.
"But why do you think Teresa is willing to go so far to protect Oscar?" asked the daemon swordsman.
"It should be obvious. He's her brother, her family. People are willing to do anything to protect their siblings or family" Selene turned to Velvet who was in thought.
"That is true. But also because Oscar is the second son of the Dragonia family, aristocrats with ancestral to the Asgard royal lineage. From what I understand he was sent to the Abbey in the hopes of strengthening his family ties to the group" said Eleanor.
"For the good of the bloodline. Happens all the time" said the war daemon.
"Teresa followed after him, joining the Abbey, where she's been his constant savior, even if she's kept it from him."
"Wait. So they're not really blood-related?" asked the malak girl.
"She cares for him like an older sister cares for her younger brother. It's that obvious" said the Arc" or I could be wrong."
"So she's just another noble, too. Could've had an easy life if she'd just kept in her place" said the platinum-blond.
"No, Teresa was conceived, ah, outside of formal matrimony. And her mother...Was not of what you'd call high standing" said the red head exorcist.
"It happens more often than you might think."
The group saw Teresa climbing down the Van Eltia walking to them.
"Feeling better?" asked Jaune.
"My mother died, and my father's wife never cared for me, so I merely served the Dragonia family as a maid. Those were dark...Lonely times for me...But Oscar...Oscar was the only one who called me his sister and embraced me as family. Does a sister need any other reason to want to save her brother?"
"So you're back on your feet?" asked Velvet.
"My sincere thanks for the medicine."
"I can't use you as a hostage if you're dead. Where's the therion?"
The female praetor pointed ahead of the docks" ahead the Baird Marsh are the ruins of an ancient kingdom. There you'll find the earthpulse point, along with Oscar."
"Um…." Laphicet couldn't sensed any malakhim within the young woman" what happened to number one?"
"Lord Artorius took number one away from me. As it stands, I'm without the powers of an exorcist."
"He demote you?" Jaune was shocked that wasn't like him" why would he do that?"
"It seems he sees me as not worthy as an exorcist, not anymore. As such, whether I live or die is for you to decide. Once Oscar is safe, you can do whatever you like to me."
"We'll do as you wish. All of it" replied the Crowe.
They found out this was an Abbey encampment. It was abandoned at the moment but it was well maintained. Teresa said the next exorcist patrol will arrive in ten days. That was plenty of time for them to get the therion and remove it from the earthpulse point. Selene found another Katz box while Jaune found an agent of the Bloodwings. He got paid for the past code red daemons they have defeated. Once that was done, the party resumed their trip ahead heading into the Baird Marsh. The Arc stole a few glance at the female praetor. He couldn't believe Artorius would demote her as an exorcist. There has to be reason for it. It wasn't like the Shepherd to removed her from her position and he didn't believed her excuse that she wasn't worthy as one.
"Are you going to tell me the real reason he demote you?"
"I see no reason to tell you."
"Teresa. You're among the most talented exorcist in the Abbey. It's not normal Artorius would remove your rank just like that. It will be stupid of him. And we both know he's anything but stupid."
"True. We can agree on Lord Artorius's astute mind. As for the reason...Lord Melchior believes number one has a lot of potential that could be similar in power to number one."
"His name is Laphicet now. So Melchior has him now?"
"Yes. Because I can't seem to bring number one's true potential Lord Artoius took him from me and removed my status while he was at it. But…." her eyes softened thinking of her brother's request once his mission is done.
"So number one could be as strong as Laphicet. I guess someone like Melchior would be the right master for him. But I take it, Oscar wasn't happy with Artorius's decision."
"No. But he remained loyal to perform his duty, as always. However in return for fulfilling his duty Lord Artorius promised he will make me an exorcist again."
"You mean if he succeeds in killing us?"
"If you desire to be blunt about it. Then yes, that is his mission as part of guarding the therion."
"You're smarter than this Teresa. You know he's using Oscar as a guinea pig to test that new arte."
"I know. Which is why I'm doing this. That arte isn't safe and it could do real harm to him. I assure you, if it was already been tested out and if it was safe for usage. I wouldn't be standing here, with you and the enemy."
"Then let's picture the worse case scenario" Jaune paused a little" what if he dies because of that arte?"
"Then my life will end as well."
"At least put the blame on Artorius for making him go through with this."
"Oscar volunteered to test the new arte. Lord Artorius didn't make him. He's doing this because he wants to correct his mistakes for letting the daemon Velvet escape from Titania and for not being able to stop her from taking the therion at Palamides. Though a thank you is in order. I know it was you who got him out of there. If you hadn't he would have most likely gotten killed by all those daemons at the temple. So Jaune, you have my gratitude for saving my brother. I'm in your debt."
"If you're in my debt then help-"
"Don't you dare" she glared at him" don't you use my debt as a justification to help your group fight against Lord Artorius. Even if I'm currently not an exorcist at the moment. Unlike you and Eleanor I will forever be loyal to the Abbey. There's nothing else I have to say to you."
"I understand" the Arc sighed, that could have gotten better.
"However. I will repaid my debt to you. One, that doesn't involve betraying the Abbey."
Selene has been eavesdropping on their conversation the entire time. Jaune has told her many times not to eavesdrop on people's private conversation. But that didn't stopped her. Apparently, she wasn't the only one. Velvet has also heard the whole conversation and she didn't like it. Of course she didn't trusted Teresa but the way she talked to the Arc is, as if they were somehow" close". The jealousy was at it again. Not to mention the female has stolen a few glances at the blond. But she did one heck of a job in pretending she wasn't looking. As long as she fulfills her role in leading them to the therion and Oscar, she will serve her purpose as a hostage. For now, she will keep a VERY close eye on the young woman.
The Baird Marsh was known for being full of different types of ruins. Legends say it used to be the home of an ancient kingdom. Just taking a simple glance the place was very big. It might take them hours to reach the depths where the earthpulse point was located. Another reason that there were elemental barriers placed throughout the area. The Abbey's way of placing security, it was going to be one complicated puzzle changing their element to remove one barrier and make another one appeared. It was never easy for the group when they were in these kinds of places. They will never have it easy. Asides from the Marsh looking like a big maze, having elemental barriers, it was also filled with daemons.
It was no wonder the Abbey will placed a therion in this earthpulse point. Due to the amount of daemons, malevolence was strong here. The party went to combat as usual. To think the daemons were getting tougher was an understatement. Hallowed Tree as well as the Scatterer were a real challenge that made Rokurou grinned. These were the opponents he was yearning for, a real good fight to test his skills. The group gave it their all beating them with tons of chain combos. Another daemon they encountered was the Faerie Bounty resembling a flower but quite dangerous if underestimated. Of course they didn't as they continued to meet more of the species along the way. Needless to say, the fights were brutal.
During the entire time Teresa did the only thing she could. She watched as the group of the daemon Velvet fought the strong creatures. It was no wonder why they've been able to defeat the therions and get this far, compared to how they fare against Artorius at the Empyrean's Throne. They had a strong teamwork. The sight of witnessing their new grown strength only made her worried more for her brother. Even with the new arte, Oscar might be over his head here going against all of them. As things stands now, there was nothing she could do. Without her exorcist powers, she was completely defenseless. That is, if the new arte is a success. If not, then he might. The young woman shook her head, she refused to lose her brother.
As they resumed through the marsh and the ruins, they have to flipped more elemental switches to removed barriers and reopened them somewhere else. The trip wasn't that silenced as Teresa berated at Eleanor at one point for a position that was meant to be for Oscar but she he chose the red head to take it, instead of him. Truly she was upset the red head betrayed them and she was working with the group of the enemy. Eleanor stood her ground trying to explain the young woman her reasons for joining them. But Teresa ignored her keeping her anger on her as much as she had it for Velvet. The daemon that scarred her brother's face and hurt his pride as an exorcist. It wasn't easy for traveling with them but she didn't had a choice, she wanted to save her brother.
But it wasn't that bad. Teresa did her best to at least behave. There was a time when Laphicet spotted a beetle on a tree, but he couldn't reached it. The others were away but the former praetor decided to take it and gave it to him. She explained to the malak boy when Oscar was little he used to love picking insects too. Of course she was the one who caught them all the time, due of being taller than him. Selene and Jaune watched the whole interaction and they smiled. This truly showed she wasn't such a bad person. Somebody who highly believes malakhim are nothing but tools, talking to one as he was a real person. But the young woman was still trying to accept the fact that number one was acting so different, like a real person.
Teresa was still upset with herself for not being strong enough to unleash the full potential of malak number one. Jaune was right of her being a very gifted and skilled exorcist. Yet she was unable to show the truth power that dormant within the malakhim. He could be as strong as malak number two, or rather Laphicet. Now Melchior has number one and who will eventually be the one to release the malak's potential. That didn't mattered now. The only thing in her mind was saving her brother. She just needed to stop him before the enemy attacks. She mentally sighed knowing Oscar won't be happy, but it was the only way to save him. His life was more precious than anyone in this world, even the Shepherd's.
"I'll save Oscar before he uses that arte. I'll fight them in his place. After all...I am receptive to Innominat's power."
"Look out!" shouted Jaune.
Before them stood a new type of daemon. A large centipede colored yellow with bright red eyes. It was releasing a lot of malevolence. Teresa was shocked by its sight. She has never seen so much malevolence before.
"It's a code red daemon" said the Arc checking the list" Millionaire, it's weak to wind and hidden artes."
"So this is a code red daemon. It looks powerful" it was the first time Teresa was seeing one even as skilled as she was, she never got the chance to fight one.
"Just stand back and let us handle this" the blond exorcist unsheathed Crocea Mors while the rest of the party drew their weapons.
"We're not letting this thing stop us from getting to that therion!" said Velvet.
Even if she was facing such a dangerous daemon. In her heart Teresa wanted them to lose to the creature. That way, Oscar won't have to use that new arte and she won't have to put herself in harm's way.
To be continued
-Leaving it there as a cliffhanger but it's not as bad as past ones lol.
-Well we learned how Jaune found out the truth about Seres and she being the one to tell him the truth that lead him to leave the Abbey.
-Uh oh Laphicet saw a memory of Selene hmm...I won't say a word about it. No spoilers sorry.
-Replying to reviews or PM's:
*alexwu704- as I said I'm following canon but Jaune has something up his sleeve. Let's just say he will have plans for the next time he faces Ruby and Pyrrha.
*Guest- I'm sorry but having different semblances from his friends in Remnant that will make him OP. And trust me he will become strong enough in the future. But I still appreciate the suggestion.
*BlazefireDrago- thank you that you like the chapter. But Jaune won't hesitate the next time he fights his friends. Plus as I've said before I have no interest in making a RWBY/Tokyo Ghoul or RWBY/Attack on Titan stories. I like the series but they don't give me inspiration to write, sorry.
*The Emerald Mage- I am happy you're still enjoying the story. I guess there's a bit of similarity between Eleanor and Pyrrha but we all know Velvet is #1 for Jaune. Also we're getting so close to know the truth about Selene. The patience will be worth it.
*Haseoblade-Skyking01- I don't think I'll be going with that for a semblance for Jaune sorry. I still appreciate the suggestion though.
*battered- I will not continue Shadow of the Dead all of my HOTD stories are on permanent hiatus sorry.
*Kamencolin- I haven't watch Red vs Blue so I don't know what you're talking about sorry.
*Cloud Link Zero- again thank you very much for suggesting those awesome DMA for Jaune and Velvet. I can't say anything yet regarding armatization between Jaune and Selene. You will know soon.
*Guest- we all have different opinions I understand if you didn't like Xillia's 2 ending. Also no, Jaune will NOT become a therion.
*LameJokeGuy- like I said we have different opinions when it comes to the ending of Xillia 2. But I agreed with you I didn't like fracture Milla disappearing I actually ship her with Ludger.
*Golden Light 001- I love Edna she's best girl and fav character in Zestiria. Jaune meeting her? I have no idea what you're talking about lol.
-Please keep supporting ZonZus's art base on this story on his deviant art page. If you don't know the address just PM me and I will send it to you.
-As always thank you very much for the favs, follows and reviews I really appreciate it.
Next time: Oscar's Resolve