Disclaimer: I don't own RWBY they are the rightful property of RoosterTeeth.
Italics are flashbacks
Bold and Italics are flashbacks
Italics and underlined are summons talking
**Communications by scrolls and other devices
Chapter 36 Truth
(Location: outside of Beacon Academy Sonus continent Kingdom of Vale Remnant)
The bullhead ship landed on the docking bay recently arriving. Minutes later the hatch opened revealing Jaune with his backpack. The Arc just returned from his home after six days. That means there was only one day remaining before the start of the Vytal Festival. He made it just in time. Even with the death of his father he couldn't let it troubled him. John wanted him to compete in the tournament. Not participating will be letting him down. And not just him, but his team as well. That will be something he will never forgive himself. His team will be entering that tournament and win it. That is if Cinder doesn't make her move to attack the school. But the blond leader was sure she was going to put her plan in motion. That's why he trained with his older sister. In order to control the Berserker Armor Jaune trained under Dana. She was the only one strong enough to put a stop to the fiendish armor if he loses control.
The training wasn't a complete success, it wasn't complete failure either. He was able to showed signs that he has the potential to control it. Only for a few seconds, not much but it was a good start. The problem is he needed more time and time is something he didn't had. Thank goodness his sister wasn't harmed during the training. Dana was stronger than she looked. The older Arc did suffered some minor injuries. What to expect when your opponent was someone like the Berserker armor. She was indestructible but she lasted longer than any other opponent. And thanks to her summons she was able to last trough the whole thing. Jaune needed to continue the training but how. Maybe asking Ozpin but he needed a strong opponent that can handle the brute strength of the living armor. Maybe Qrow will do. The Branwen was able to fend for himself the first time he summoned it. That is, if he wasn't too busy.
Before leaving for Patron the scythe master was investigating the CCT. Finding out why Cinder went through all the trouble in infiltrating the place. Jaune wondered if he was done with that. He was the perfect opponent to help him with his Berserker armor training. The Arc hoped he was still in Vale, Ozpin was always keeping him busy with all kinds of missions. The blond hasn't forgotten he needed to ask the headmaster about the stone his father gave him. The one needed to active Crocea Mors special ability. Then there was the training with his team. Jaune gave a sigh one day wasn't enough for the things he has planned today. Will he be able to that to the remaining of the day. The Arc suddenly thinking of his team. He hasn't seen them in six days and he has missed them a lot. It will be great to see them again. They will probably go crazy when they see him back.
The blond leader was truly to be back in Beacon as he made his way to the entrance of the school building. Surprise that he saw Ozpin and Goodwitch as if they were waiting for him. That got the attention of the Arc what could they possibly want. He did say he was coming back today so that's why they will be waiting. But why, unless it was an update on the CCT investigation. Or maybe Torchwick has spilled the beans during an interrogation. Anything that will give them a lead on Cinder's whereabouts. That way they'll be able to find her before she puts her plan in motion. The Arc hasn't forgotten the White Fang was also involved. Adam Taurus was taking orders from the amber eyed woman and not the current faunus group's high leader. So Jaune was expecting some good news from the headmaster. Anything will be good he was still trying to get over the death of his father.
"Welcome back Mr. Arc. Apologies for not giving you my condolences earlier. I knew John for a long time. We were good friends. I do hope your family is coping with his loss."
"They're doing their best moving on with their lives. So am I. Anyway Professor Ozpin, there's something I would like to talk to you about. It's kind of important."
"We can talk about it later. Right now, there's more of an urgent matter you need to attend to."
Jaune stood bewildered what could be more important than talking about the missing stone that goes in Crocea Mors.
"Is everything okay? My team hasn't done anything out of the ordinary while I was away?" he sweat dropped he hoped Yang didn't got herself into trouble again.
"You're team is perfectly fine. They've been training hard for the tournament in the last couple of days. What I'm trying to say is that you should head to the Vault immediately."
"The Vault?" that got the Arc's attention as his eyes widened, the matter was about Summer" did something...I mean, is she…."
"Head to the Vault to find out Mr. Arc. Qrow, Miss Rose and Miss Xiao Long are already there" it was strange that the headmaster has given a smile that really got the blonds' curiosity.
"What could this be about?" for some reason Jaune felt nervous and excited not knowing why.
Jaune was now on the elevator heading to the bottom floor. The blond stood in thought not knowing what to think or say. If the Vault was involved it has to be Summer. Fear was in his blue eyes what if she didn't made it. After seven years in the coma she couldn't hold and she's now. No, the blond erased the thought in a heart beat. He knew the silver eyed woman was too strong to go down that easily. Not to mention he just lost his father. Losing his mentor, teacher figure will be the last nail to pierce his heart and soul. Like he needed any more sad news he was still trying to get over the passing of his old man. If Summer dies how will that turn out. Not just him but what will be of Ruby and Yang. They will never be the same. The woman was their mother the one who was there to raised them along with Taiyang. Even if Yang wasn't her child by blood she still saw the blond brawler as her daughter.
The bell of the elevator finally rang reaching the last floor. Jaune gave a sigh as the doors slid opened. Stepping out into the dark long hallway that is the Vault. Definitely the best place to hide a comatose Summer from Salem. He bet not even Cinder knows of this place. The Arc made a mental note to ask Ozpin if there's been any suspicious activity with Mercury and his team. He can also ask Sun and Neptune since both teens volunteered to investigate on the team from Haven. They ave junior detective badges. In the original time line he was so excited to see the badge, he wanted to have one too. Things sure changed the badge didn't mattered anymore. He had bigger things to worry about. Can he handled whatever was waiting for him in that room. As he went further he spotted Qrow near by the entrance to the room. The Branwen saw him and gave a smile.
What could it mean. He has seen the scythe user smiled before whenever he drinks or attempts to flirt with a pretty lady. But this smile was different from past ones. Suddenly Ruby and Yang emerged from the room. The red cloak ran towards the Arc hugging him while sobbing. Now Jaune was fearing the worse has happened. Did she didn't made it after all. Will he have to attempt another funeral for a loved one. The blond accepted the hug from his partner as he gazed over to the lilac eyed brawler. She was smiling with tears. Okay, he understood the tears but why the smile. It was the same with Qrow. Ruby cut the embrace short as she was smiling too with tears. Now the Arc had the idea that maybe it wasn't sad news but the other way around. Both girls were telling him to entered the room to find out. It really brought his curiosity as he did as told by his teammates.
Once he entered now he understood their reactions. Their smile and the tears. They were tears of joy. Blue eyes widened from shock as Jaune kept staring inside of the room. What was supposed to be Summer laying on the bed she was now standing and fully awake. The Arc was beyond shock it has to be a dream. It couldn't be possible she was in a coma for seven years and now she was awake. Then he felt Ruby pinching his hand to proved him wrong as if she just read his mind. No, he was still here and not in the bed of his team's dorm. He was still shocked as the silver eyed woman turned to him with a warm smile. A smile he thought he would never see again. Tears were now forming at the sight. This was really happening, Summer was finally awake from her long coma. Qrow entered the room smiling with his two niece. While the Arc was still trying to get over the fact that she was back.
"Are you going to stand there, or are you going to give me a hug?" Summer kept her smile as the tears formed.
Jaune finally broke down as he ran to the silver eyed woman hugging her. His sobs were muffled as he buried his head on the woman's chest. Summer returned the embrace tightly as she shed her tears. She was so happy to be back and awake from the coma. She was still shocked that she's been sleeping for seven years. It was a great shock when Ozpin told her and the events that have transpired while she was out. She has truly missed out on a lot. Her daughters have grown while she slept. Yang was so beautiful resembling her mother with the form of her hair and Ruby was the living resemblance of herself. Ozpin told her of them passing the initiation exam and becoming a team with Jaune as their leader. She was proud of all of them for getting so far. She knew they were going to make it and become strong huntsmen and huntresses. Summer kept her smiled as she continued to hugged the blond male. Qrow and the two girls watched at the beautiful emotional reunion.
"Summer...I…." he pulled apart a little still sobbing.
"Shhh...it's okay I'm here now."
"My dad...He's gone…."
"I know. Ruby told me I'm so sorry dear. You can cry. There's nothing with cry when you lose a loved one. I know John must have been proud of the man you have become."
"He was…."
"I know I am too" she smiled as she broke the hug" Ozpin has already filled me in while I was out like a light. Team JPRY huh?"
"We're the strongest team in Beacon!" Yang declared proudly.
"Not that far from the truth" said the Arc.
"I have truly missed out on so much. I wished I could've been there to guide you all."
"They did fine on their own if you ask me" said Qrow.
"I still can't believe when I looked at you three" Summer smiled starting to gaze at the blond brawler" Yang you have become very beautiful and I must add you have filled out nicely too."
"I know" the brawler was proud by her mom's compliment.
"You too Ruby."
"I don't know" the red cloak petite gazed at her chest and then at her older sister's.
"Since when does Ruby care about the size of her breasts? She's not that kind of a person. Even if she has a nice chest she's not completely flat like Weiss. Wait why am I even thinking about this?" Jaune sweat dropped.
"Summer let's not bring any of those sort of questions in front of a male audience" said the Branwen.
"Well excuse me if I being honest. You have all changed but at the same time, you're still the same. Only stronger to have made it to Beacon and being on the same team."
"You bet mom we also have Pyrrha and she's very strong" added the silver eyed reaper.
"She's a four time Mistral regional champion. She's that awesome and she's also my partner" said Yang.
"I don't mind calling her, she should be here with us" the Arc opened his scroll texting the red head champion" also. There's another reason for wanting her here."
"You sound serious all of the sudden" said red cloak petite.
"I've been doing a lot of thinking and while I was back at my home. I think it's time I tell you guys everything."
"You're planning on telling them?" Summer was shocked.
"I have a lot of time to think about it. There's no way I'm planning to keep this a secret from my own team. That is, if there's a problem with it Qrow?"
"Nope. I'm okay with you telling them. As long as you don't tell everyone else it's fine with me."
"Tell us everything?" asked the blond brawler confused, the same with her younger sister.
"Let's wait until Pyrrha gets here then I will explain."
It didn't took long for Pyrrha to received Jaune's text and followed his instructions. She was overjoyed to find out the blond leader was back. She took the elevator and pressed the hidden button that will lead to the bottom floor. Honestly she had no idea there was a lower floor in the school. She knew about Ruby and Yang's mom being kept somewhere in Beacon except the infirmary. The red head huntress knew they were visiting her and it was very personal for her to get involved. So she decided to let them be until they were done visiting the woman. The elevator stopped as the doors slid opened. Pyrrha was shocked at the new area. A long dark hallway that was definitely very creepy. Was this where they were keeping her teammate's mother. It looked like the perfect place for a shelter or to keep something hidden. The red head kept walking further in as she saw some sort of machine. But there was an entrance to a room so she went inside. Everyone was present including an older woman that looks exactly like Ruby but with longer hair.
"I hope I'm not interrupting. I didn't wanted to interfere anything too personal."
"No, you came at the right time. Thanks for coming" the blond leader smiled at her.
"You must be Pyrrha. I'm Summer, it's so nice to meet you. I've been looking forward to meet the other member in Jaune's team."
"It's so nice to meet you too. I am glad to see you finally awake."
"Seven year is too long to take quite the nap. I'm feeling like I will never sleep again."
"Okay Jaune, we're all here. What is it that you want to tell us" Yang got to the point.
"Right…." the Arc stood in thought.
"Don't hesitate now kid. If you want to tell them everything you know. Now's the chance to do so" Qrow has taken his silver flask.
"I know. And I'm not going to waste this opportunity. Not after making up my mind."
"It's all right if you want to tell them. I think you're making the right choice" replied Summer.
"Everything?" Pyrrha turned to the rest of her teammates not knowing what they were talking about.
"We're confused too" said Ruby.
"Which is why Jaune will tell us right?" followed the blond brawler.
"I am. Now I told you guys about Cinder and my investigation which it's a secret mission that Ozpin gave me?"
The silver eyed woman had no idea what the Arc was talking about. She turned to her former teammate and partner. He only signaled her to play along for now.
"That was a lie" his replied confused his team even more" there is no secret mission, there is no investigation, Ozpin didn't assigned me to anything."
"But we did that mission to find out about the White Fang and then there was Mt. Glenn" argued his red cloak partner.
"This isn't make any sense" followed Yang.
"I have to agree. Jaune what are you talking about? All of this is so confusing" said the red head champion.
"I know I lied to you guys and I'm sorry for that. But now that's going to change. I will tell you guys everything, nothing but the truth. It's a long story so I hope you guys pay attention."
His team was still confused why would he lied about Cinder and his secret mission. Apparently the blond had his reasons. So they stood quiet and listened to every word he was going to say. Jaune eventually told them everything. He was finally ready to come clean and reveal the truth. The blond told them that he was a traveler from the future and he knew future events that will take place especially, during the Vytal Festival. The Grimm attack during the tournament. Of course he told them about some of the changes in this time line. Like the original teams, that Miltia and Melanie never went to Beacon become huntresses, Cardin and Russel had two other teammates named Sky Lark and Dove. Including the revelation that he died during the attack and he made a wish to returned to the past and the miracle that worked. After over an hour the Arc was done telling his story as he looked at his team.
Qrow and Summer were normal since they already knew. But the three girls had a mixture of emotions. They were baffled, bewildered, speechless, in awe at everything they've just heard. Jaune sighed he was expecting they will think he's gone crazy. Though his story was pretty crazy and impossible. But the Arc chose to tell them because he trusts them with his life. They deserve to know. They were the only people that have earned the right. Asides Summer, Qrow, Ozpin and Goodwitch since they know to keep secrets. Also the blond was comfortable telling them. He did took his time but this was the perfect chance to let them know the truth. Now that Summer was finally awake. Now he didn't know if he should tell Weiss and her team. He trusted them too but he was unsure. The headmaster did warned him not to tell too many people his secret.
"Well. That's all I know. I am sorry for lying to you guys. But I wasn't ready back then. I hope you guys can forgive for keeping all of this from you. So, what do you guys have to say?"
"I say you hit your head too hard" replied Yang.
"Look. I understand if you don't believe me. But it's the truth."
"Team RWBY…?" said the red cloak petite" so I was the leader of the team with Yang, Blake and Weiss?"
"Weiss was your partner."
"Don't know what to say about that" said the young reaper.
"I find it hard to believe having the ice queen on the same team though" said the blond brawler.
"You were very good as a team. You were the toughest team of first year's I've seen" said Jaune.
"Team JNPR…." spoke Pyrrha" so I was really your partner and were form part of the team with Ren and Nora?"
"We were. But you're still with me in this new team" smiled the blond leader.
"You guys don't believe him?" Yang turned to her mother and uncle.
"I don't want to believe it, but the kid has been right of all the events so far. No other choice but to follow his lead" said the Branwen.
"I have always believed Jaune as the first person he told his secret. I know it sounds crazy but it's all true. There was something about him when I first met him. His words were so sincere. What he's been through it's all real" replied the silver eyed woman.
"But come on a wish. He makes a wish and it comes true" said the lilac eyed blond" it sounds like something that will only happened in a fairy tale."
"I wouldn't say all fairy tales are fairy tales. Some can be very true" added Qrow.
"It doesn't matter whether you believe me or not. I wanted to come clean and tell you guys the truth. But this is the only reason I know there's going to be an attack during the tournament and Cinder is behind it. I don't know if the same thing that occurred in the original time line will happen in this one. I just know something bad will occur."
"Time lines...Alternate events…?" Ruby was scratching her head.
"It all sounds ridiculous sorry Jaune. Are you sure you didn't hit your head on your way back from your home?" Yang persisted.
"No I didn't. Ozpin, Goodwitch, Qrow and Summer are backing me up on this so they believe me. That's why I've been preparing all of you training harder than usual. So we'll be ready for the coming invasion."
"Whatever happens we'll be ready" said Pyrrha turning to her leader" I will believe you Jaune. Let's all do our best if Cinder is planning an attack."
"Thanks Pyrrha" the Arc felt happy someone on his team believes him.
"If you're done telling your story. Time for you to know the rest."
"Qrow are you planning to tell them about that?" Summer was shocked at the Branwen.
"Oz gave me permission. I didn't just came here to visit you. I'm also here to fill in on the rest of the blanks."
"What blanks?" asked the Arc.
"Listen good all of you. What you're about to hear it's true and it must not leave this room no matter what. Are we clear?"
The four teens gave a slow nod as the scythe master took a sip from his silver flask.
"But first let me ask you. What's your favorite fairy tale?"
"What?" Jaune was the first to asked.
"Qrow stop making a big fuzz and tell them already" Summer sighed Ozpin would asked the same question too.
"Fine. It's not a long story like yours. But it's very important. Maybe you will understand more about the huntsmen schools and the enemy we're fighting."
The Arc and his team stood silent waiting on his story. So the Branwen started telling them that not all fairy tales were all fictional. That some are actually true. Like the one of the two brothers. He told them about the brother of light and the brother of darkness. One who creates life and the other who creates destruction due that he was jealous of his brother's work, creating nature, wild life. How the brothers of darkness ended creating something more powerful and evil. Like the creatures of Grimm. The team stood shocked so the source of the creatures was work of the dark brother. Jaune immediately thought of Salem's connection with said brother. And he started of who could be related to the brother of light. Qrow resumed his story that the brother of light convinced his brother to an agreement and create something together. One with the knowledge to create, destroy and have a choice to do both. Their creation was humanity itself.
They also created other things for their creation, gifts to put it in short. Four relics with the characteristics humanity was created. Creation, destruction, choice and knowledge. Each was powerful in their own right. It all lead to the creation of the huntsmen school and each relic was assigned to the four headmasters of the main schools of Remnant. One in Atlas Academy, another in Haven, the other in Shade and one in Beacon. Team JPRY was taken back at the revelation. So there was another goal of creating huntsmen and huntresses. Asides their duty to protect mankind from the threat of the Grimm, they were also assigned with the hidden task to guard the relic. Jaune was in awe but he was starting to understand. It made sense if they have a school full of highly trained huntsmen then, their enemy won't be able to get their hands on them so easily. It was clear that Salem was after the relics. That was her goal and of course it was Cinder's, asides getting the Fall Maiden's powers.
Qrow wasn't done with his story as he decided to bring in the maidens. The team knew about the four maidens. A story many parents will tell to their children. It turned out to be a true just like the two brothers. The maidens exist and they possessed powerful abilities. Magic without the need of dust and only women can be the inheritors of such power. The Branwen also explained of how the power transfer go. When a maiden dies the last person in their thoughts is the one to inherit her powers. It has to be a women because it isn't, the powers will be transfer to a complete random female. Along that the four maidens are being closely watched over by the headmasters in order to watch their progress and aid them if they ever get in danger. Jaune knew about the maidens so he wasn't that surprised but the his teammates were shocked at the news. So much information they thought will never exist or that it was fake. Turning out to be true.
Lastly he told them about Salem, the Queen of the Grimm and the real master mind behind the future attack on Beacon. That she wasn't alone and she has people doing her bidding. Cinder was one of those people taking orders from her and apparently she wants to take the powers of one of the maidens. The question is how. Jaune stood in deep thought in the original time line she managed to take some of Amber's powers. And during the attack of Beacon she took the rest by killing the poor woman who was comatose in the same machine next to this room. The blonds' eyes narrowed he couldn't let her hurt Amber and take her powers. This time, he will stop her. The invasion, it will be different it was his reason for making that wish in the first place. Qrow finally finished his story as he took another sip from his flask. Taking a glance at the four teens expecting to hear their thoughts on the whole thing.
"That's it, no questions?"
"I thought Jaune's story was crazy. But yours uncle Qrow is crazier" said Yang.
"It's up to you if you want to believe me. But I wouldn't come up with something this serious."
"So much information to know in one day it's making my head hurt" Ruby was feeling a headache coming.
"It's hard to imagine many of those fairy tales are real" said Pyrrha.
"They're quite old so I don't blame any of you for not believing me. They eventually become legends and that's why it leads to think it's a fairy tale. People like Oz, Goodwitch, Jimmy and myself are known for keeping these types of secrets. Of course, others know the truth but only a minority" he gazed over at Summer.
"Hey Jaune" the brawler turned to her leader" you've been pretty quiet. Don't tell me you believe him?"
"I won't deny it. It sounds far fetch but compared to my story. I'm willing to believe anything. Besides, if there's someone like Cinder then I know Salem exist. Qrow, is she after the relics?"
"That should be obvious otherwise the headmasters wouldn't be guarding them in their schools."
"And the maidens are supposed to be the last line of defense if things go south right?"
"Guessed right again. That's why we have to keep an eye on them in case Salem decides to go after them first."
"But she is, we know that" the Arc's eyes narrowed.
"And that's why she's here" replied the Branwen.
"What are you guys talking about?" Yang felt annoyed" it's like you know more than what you have already told us."
"Maybe I can put your doubts to rest."
Everyone turned to see Amber at the entrance to the medical room.
"I'm sorry if I was eavesdropping earlier. But I can confirm what Qrow said is true. However, I can't confirm Jaune's story."
"Professor Amber you also know about the maidens and the relics?" asked Ruby.
"Yes I was informed a long time ago and the reason is quite simple."
"Wait. Amber you're not planning in telling them?" said the Arc worried.
"I trust all the people in this room and it's up to myself to decide who gets the right to know."
"What is she talking about Jaune?" Pyrrha turned to the blond leader.
"I am more than just a huntress and a teacher. I am the current Fall Maiden."
The three girls gasped at the revelation. And just in case they didn't believed her the young woman lifted her hand and created a small flame. Making sure she wasn't using dust.
"That's…." Yang was speechless.
"She's not using dust" followed Pyrrha.
"My staff does have dust. I need it when I'm fighting to keep my secret. But in truth I don't really need it. Though I'm still inexperience compare to past maidens."
"Okay. I think that's enough information for the day" Jaune turned to his team" you guys have a lot to think over. And I'm sure Summer would like to be alone and get some rest."
"Are you kidding?!" the silver eyed woman glared comically at the Arc" I've been sleeping for seven years you think I'm going to go sleep again."
"Don't you have to go through like a check up or something?" the blond was scared backing away.
"The nurse already gave me the check up right after I woke. Don't try to get away young man."
"You're in trouble now" Qrow smirked.
"You know I just remembered I have to go talk to Ozpin. Bye!"
"Hey!" shouted the huntress calming down with a smile" I'm so glad to be back."
"Qrow?" she called to her former partner as she touched her very long hair" bring me a pair of scissors. This hair has got to go."
"Oh mom don't. You look so beautiful with long hair" argued Yang.
"The length of a huntress can get in the way of battle. I'd prefer mine to be short. Sorry, sweetie."
"I will never cut mine" the blond brawler was that protective of her long hair.
Jaune smiled as he stood on the elevator again this time he was heading for the top floor. He was so happy that Summer has finally awaken. Even the thought will bring him to tears. At least he got some good news as he returned from his home. The loss of his father hit him hard but having his mentor and teacher back was a joyous feeling. He really deserve some good news after what he went through. Qrow's story really took him by surprise about the two brothers being a real story and the creation of mankind by their hands. Then there was the relics. Though the Branwen wasn't that specific not giving a brief description of what they looked like. Guess he forgot to asked him but he had a feeling the scythe master wouldn't tell him either way. The blond only knew that they were powerful and that Salem was after them. So Cinder wanted Amber's powers plus the relic that was currently being guarded in Beacon.
The Arc will have to think about that later. Right now he needed to talk to Ozpin. According to his father he gave the headmaster the yellow stone that forms part of Crocea Mors. With it, the sword will be able to unlocked it's special ability. A weapon that can store Arc aura increasing it's strength. The aura will also benefit his semblance too. Who knows how many he can summon and for how long. John did also mentioned that with more aura his summons might learn new skills and abilities. That really got his attention. What kind of abilities, will it make them stronger. That was a scary thought, they were already strong enough in his opinion. He hasn't forgotten there were still three more summons left he still hasn't been able to bring forth. The elevator finally reached the destination floor at the top of Beacon Tower. Jaune saw Ozpin standing holding a cup watching the view from his window.
"Mr. Arc just in time" the headmaster turned to him.
"Sorry. I hope I'm not interrupting."
"On the contrary I was expecting you. I hope you and Summer were able to catch up" he smiled.
"We sure did. When did she wake up?"
"Two days ago to be precised."
"I'm glad to have her back. After so long and just when I was about to think she was going to stay that way. But never mind that. It doesn't matter now."
"Indeed. You said you needed to talk to me about something important. If it's that urgent then I won't keep you waiting any longer."
"I…." Jaune has taken his father's letter from one of his pockets" in my dad's last letter to me. He mentions about the secret ability of the Arc sword Crocea Mors. But he says that the sword can't work without a special item. A yellow stone. He said he gave it to you as a gift a long time ago."
"I see" Ozpin chuckled" so poor John gave it to me without realizing what the stone was capable off back then, didn't he?"
"Yeah, he wrote about that in the letter."
"If he wanted you to have it because you are in need of it. Then who am I to refuse the last request of a good friend?"
The headmaster walked over to his desk and opened a drawer. He has taken a small silver box with the Arc family symbol on the top. Opening it to the blond leader it revealed a small yellow stone. That's what he needed to use his sword's special ability.
"Are you sure I should have this? He did gave it to you as a gift."
"True. But he wanted you to have it in the end. As a last request take it. Besides, it rightfully belongs to you as the successor of the Arc family."
Jaune took the stone from Ozpin's hand as he grabbed the sheathed Crocea Mors. Changing the weapon to it's great sword mode. Taking a closer in the middle of the handle, there it was. A small hole in the same size of the stone. Where it's suppose to go. Feeling a little anxious the blond inserted the stone in the socket as nothing happened. Not like he was expecting some kind of light show or the sword glowing brightly that will lead him blind. But with this his weapon was finally completed. Now he needed to take a break so he can start storing aura in it. This was a success for the Arc. It was one step towards becoming stronger and to stopping Cinder. The blond changed the sword back to it's sheathed mode. There was something else he needed to do first since the tournament was tomorrow.
"Thanks Professor Ozpin."
"No need to thank me. John was a dear friend who would be proud of your progress as a huntsman."
"He was. And you probably know that Qrow told me and my team everything else."
"Yes. I allowed him to tell you. Now you know what is at stake."
"Protect the relics from Salem."
"No matter what happens she must not get her hands on all four of them. It will mean utter chaos to this world."
"I'm guessing you're keeping the relic of Beacon in a very secure place?"
"It is "highly" secure. But there's no need to tell you for the time being" the headmaster gave a slight smirk.
"Right, like I was expecting you would tell me. I'll see you later and thanks again" Jaune took the elevator leaving the office.
"Keep getting strong Mr. Arc. You might be the key to stop Cinder and even her."
Adam stood seated on a truck being driven by one of his men. They were traveling all over the city of Vale as the masked commander received a call. Picking up his scroll it was another of his men giving him a report. He ended the call and not that long he received another. It was another report, and yet another one. The swordsman kept having calls of reports. His men were all over the place. He still wasn't happy that he lost so many of them during the train incident. There was also his lieutenant in prison. Soon all those mistake will be nothing but a memory. His mission will be a successful, the humans will pay and nay faunus that is against him. They have passed some police cars but they were undercover using a regular truck that will make them less suspicious. The White Fang commander got another call and it wasn't from his men. He still chose to opened the device and take it.
*What's your status?* Cinder's voice.
"We're right on schedule. Plan B is a go."
*Good. Usually there wouldn't be a need for a Plan B but that wretched mole forced my hand. Finish up with any preparations. We must be ready before the tournament.*
"Understood" he ended the call.
Jaune was dying to try out his new sword. He promised his team he will use Crocea's special ability to them. But first he went to another dorm. Tomorrow was the tournament so there was no turning back now. Everyone needed to be ready for the worst. The only ones he still hasn't told them about Cinder and her plan was team CMRM. It's not like he left them for last on purpose. After everything that happened. Telling them was the last thing on his mind. The blond leader was hoping they will believe him or at least give him the benefit of the doubt. Arriving at the dorm he knocked on the door. It opened revealing the team's leader Cardin. His expression wasn't that of anger, more like curious to see the Arc here. Though the Winchester heard of his father's passing so he should be a little nicer to him. The JPRY leader was waiting if he could let him in and to his surprise the tall teen let him entered the dorm. That was a good sign so Jaune kept himself positive.
So he told them about Cinder, his investigations and her alliance with the White Fang and the criminal Roman Torchwick who was currently in custody by the Atlas military. Then he told them about a possible terrorist attack during the tournament. He decided to saved some of the details for later. But this will be enough for the team to understand the situation. Once the Arc was done he stared at the four members of the team. Russel was bewildered, Melanie was frowning, Miltia didn't looked that concern and Cardin looked like he was ready to mock him. Jaune sighed of course this was going to happen. Being honest has a prize to pay. At least his team and WNRB believed when he told them about the amber eyed woman. Before telling his team the truth, they were doubting him obviously. The Arc was not sure if he should make the attempt to convince them of this threat.
"You don't believe me?" he sweat dropped.
"No kidding. Just when we're one day away from the Vytal Festival, you decide to bring this up? Forget it there's no way you're scaring us. We're not backing out of the tournament. We've been training really hard for a long time and we're going to win" said the Winchester.
"This isn't about backing out or even winning the tournament. I'm being serious Cardin, Cinder is no laughing matter. She's clever, patient and dangerous. I have gathered enough evidence to know she's going to pull something at the Vytal Festival. She was also the one who infiltrated the CCT during the night of the dance. And I still don't know why she went there in the first place."
"Okay okay Sherlock. Say I believe you, what's in it for us?"
"What's in it for you? We're talking about a terrorist attack, an invasion that will put the lives of thousands of innocent people in danger. What's in it for you that you and your team should be ready and prepare when the shit hits the fan."
"That is gross" said Miltia.
"Really gross" her twin sister Melanie agreed.
"Maybe we should believe him. He looks so serious" said Russel.
"Can it. You really want me to believe some psycho lady is planning a terrorist attack?"
"I did my part warning you. If you don't want to believe that's fine. But keep your eyes wide open during the tournament. You know those two from the wanted posters? The one with amber eyes and black hair is Cinder. Should any of you see her or the other female called Emerald let me know immediately."
"Who died and made you leader Jaune? Shouldn't we tell the headmaster or the military? There's no way I'm telling you" said the team leader.
"I thought you didn't believe me?" the Arc smirked.
"I don't. But it wouldn't hurt to keep a look out you know. Just in case you turn out to be right, which I seriously doubt."
"We'll keep close watch if we see any of those two" said Melanie while her sister in red nodded.
"I'll help too" added the mohawk teen.
"Thanks and do your best at the tournament. My team have trained very hard too and we're not planning to lose."
"You're on Jaune!" Cardin was now pumped.
Jaune made it to his dorm his team was eagerly waiting for him. They were still trying to swallow all that information their leader and Qrow told them. It was impossible to believed everything they've just said. But for now they decided to ignore it for the time being. The three girls were focusing on the Arc who was holding Crocea Mors in great sword mode. The blond promised them he will show them his weapon's secret ability to store aura in it. He stood calm and relaxed, letting his aura do the work. Concentrating on it. He could could feel it, running, coursing all over his body. The blond sent the huge amount he has straight at his sword. It was working as Crocea was glowing with the color of his aura. Jaune obviously had his eyes closed because he was concentrating that much. But he could hear his teammates gasping in awe so that was a sign that it was working.
With this his weapon and his semblance will become strong. Jaune decided to give it more aura wanting to see if the weapon has a limit of storage. The more he gave it, the brighter it was glowing. Soon the dorm was being lit as if someone was using a powerful flashlight. The girls were starting to get worried because he was still giving it aura to the sword. Now they knew very well their leader had a lot of it. But even he had a limit to run out. If that happens he could collapse from aura exhaustion and that wasn't good. The person could even die from draining all of his aura. Ruby, Pyrrha and Yang turned to each other thinking the same thing. But the Arc didn't looked tired in the least as he continued to give his weapon more of his aura. If they couldn't get more worried than now, they were sure worried sick now. The last thing they wanted was seeing their leader and friend ending up unconscious.
"Jaune I think that's enough!" cried Pyrrha.
"Yeah. I think you should stop!" followed Ruby.
"It can store aura we get it. Now stop it already!" said Yang.
"It's okay! I can give it more."
"Just stop. Just because you have a lot of aura, it doesn't mean you're invincible. You will eventually ran out" said the red head champion.
"Please stop Jaune!" his partner was begging.
"Just so you know. We're not carrying you out of here to the medical bay. I will punch you there if you don't stop now!" the blond brawler threatened.
"All right...I think I have give it enough" the Arc's eyes widened in shock" oh boy. I might be in trouble."
"What is it?" asked Pyrrha.
"Guys...I can't stop. I'm trying to focus my aura on Crocea but it keeps sending it to it. It's like the sword has a mind of it's own."
"Maybe it's the sword's ability. If it's secret is to store aura it could be trying to take it all" the silver eyed petite was really worried.
"That's just bull crap. No matter what you say it's still a sword. It's not alive. Jaune you have try hard and stop sending it your aura" said Yang.
"I'll try…." Jaune kept calm as he did his best to stop the flowing of aura in his body and it worked" got it!"
Crocea Mors stopped glowing but in the process the blond collapsed.
"Jaune!" shouted the three girls.
The Arc woke up to be on the summon hall. He rolled his eyes so he was unconscious. How many times, he has lost count. There stood his seven summons so far. Elf was the first to act as she ran to her master and gave him a hug. It was unexpected but Jaune knew she was the nicest of his summons and clearly she worries a lot for him. The blond hugged her back and broke it as he smiled at her. The elven archer was in tears and she was doing an imitation of Ruby's sad puppy eyes.
"Jaune you almost scared us. I thought you were dead!"
"Come on Elfy, don't you think you're over reacting?"
Instead of an answer he got a slap to the back of his head. Courtesy of Celsius the ice woman didn't looked happy but she was hiding her concern.
"A few seconds later and you would have given it all of your aura to the key. Meaning you would have died"
"But I thought I had a lot of aura as an Arc?"
"You do. However, there was one thing your father forgot to mention to you regarding the key's ability" said Behemoth King.
"It has tremendous speed to take aura out of one's body. Someone with your amount it will only take a total of one minute to take all of it" replied Palutena.
"A non Arc would have died in mere seconds. It is a good thing the key only accept the aura of Arcs" followed Darknut.
"To put it simply the key has the sucking speed of a powerful vacuum cleaner. The sword sucks a lot" Red Eyes chuckled.
Everyone face palmed at his lame pun. Not even Elf didn't bothered to smack the dragon.
"What you did was careless. You could have perish" said the Goddess of Light.
"Okay I get it. Now I know how dangerous Crocea can be. I do have a question. Will the aura remain inside of it, or will it disappeared?"
"They key will remain storing that aura for good. It's not going anywhere until you decide to use it" said Celsius.
"And how do I use it?"
"That will be up to you to find out" said Palutena.
"Seriously you guys don't know?"
"We're not experts in the whole thing. We still don't know what that sword is capable of. Don't forget you're the first Arc after Arthur to unlocked your semblance" said Red Eyes.
"There's also Dana. But I doubt she will know anything" the blond gave a sigh.
"Just try to be more careful next time Jaune" said Elf.
"I will. Sorry for making you guys worried."
"I wasn't" said the Berserker Armor.
"Somehow I'm not surprised" sweat dropped the Arc.
Jaune opened his eyes again to see that he was back in the medical bay of the school. No surprise after collapsing from using a lot of his aura on Crocea Mors. It didn't took long for his teammates to arrived worried. Qrow and Ozpin were also present. He hoped not to get a lecture from the headmaster. Seriously he didn't know at Crocea's speed for storing aura. It was no wonder why it was created to take the aura of an Arc. They were the only ones that can give such large amount. Thank goodness his summons told him. Otherwise he would have died for draining all of it. That wasn't all he will also have to deal with his teammates. They might scold him for acting reckless. The three have become such worry wards as of late. Now that Jaune knew the truth he will have to be careful how to use his sword's secret ability. Then there was the trick to how release the aura that has been stored in his weapon. Tomorrow was the tournament so he will have to hurry up.
"I'm sorry I had no idea of Crocea's capability to take aura. The summons already warned me."
"You better be. We thought you were dead!" said Yang with her eyes red.
"Mr. Arc I know you were very eager to know your weapon's secret ability. Didn't realized you were so eager to visit medical bay again" replied the headmaster.
"I wonder how Summer will react when she finds out" Qrow grinned.
"No don't tell her!" panicked the blond leader.
"I'm sure he's only kidding Jaune" Ruby gave a giggled.
"You know how she gets. I don't want her falling on another coma" the Arc gave a sigh.
"I think you got that backwards kid. This time it will be you on a coma" the Branwen kept his grin.
His comment was enough to make him shivered in fear. Knowing the silver eyed woman yeah, he could end up in one. And maybe he might be asleep forever. A shiver hit his spin. Summer was truly a kind woman but if you anger or make her worried, her wrath will follow you to the ends of Remnant. The three girls actually laughed at their leader's reaction while Qrow chuckled before taking a sip from his flask.
"May I add. Just wanted to give you an update on Cinder's attack at the CCT" said Ozpin.
"You guys found something?" Jaune was now interested paying attention.
"Actually it was me who did all the digging" the Branwen took another sip" after a while I finally found her reason for infiltrating the place. She hacked the mainframe with a virus."
"A computer virus?" asked Pyrrha.
"So that was her reason" the Arc's eyes narrowed.
"But why hacked the CCT?" followed Ruby.
"Because doing that will give her complete control of any communication device in all of Vale. If she wishes, she might even take control of the systems from Amity Arena."
"That's where the tournament is being held" said Yang.
"In the tournament the teams and combatants are chosen randomly by the system controls. If Cinder manages to hacked through it she could be choosing the matches herself" replied the headmaster.
"Having complete control of the Vytal Festival?" Jaune stood shocked" is that what happened in the original time line? Because Cinder chose the opponents herself? She chose Mercury to fight Yang and then Pyrrha with Penny."
"Wait" the Arc got everyone's attention" I'm starting to remember something. During the attack, it wasn't just Grimm and the White Fang attacking. But Atlas soldiers too, all mechanical and even the Paladin Knight were attacking everyone."
"That virus she installed is nasty one. From what I gathered it's called" The Queen" virus". Like I said that virus can give her access to any kind of tech in the city. Even the Atlas fleet."
"So it's worse than we thought" the red head champion stood worried.
"No need to concern ourselves. The matter has been solved. The virus was removed from the CCT's mainframe not that long ago" said Ozpin.
"Really?" the Arc felt so relief.
"Our mysterious friend is at it again, I guess" followed the Branwen.
"Those are some good news" said the blond brawler.
"I'll say. Without the virus that means Cinder can't no longer control the tournament or the Atlas military. She has lost a huge advantage in her plan. But it also worries me. I know her, she's smarter than I'd give her credit for. She's probably planning something else now. Maybe something worse than her original plan."
"I believe that will be enough for the day. The nurse said you can go as you wish Mr. Arc. But she highly advises no using aura until it recharges again. That also includes no more training. Understood?" said the headmaster.
"Yeah. I'd learned my lesson" the blond nodded.
"That means we get to have some fun before it gets dark. I'd say we watch a scary movie" said Yang.
"Let's just watch an action flick instead. Something that will hype us for the tournament tomorrow" said the red cloak petite.
"More excited than we already are. I don't think that's possible" smiled Pyrrha.
"Nah, Ruby doesn't want to watch any scary movies because she gets scared so easily" grinned the brawler.
"That's not true!" she pouted.
"You even got scared watching Child's Play."
"Chucky's scary" defended the silver eyed reaper.
"He's just a stupid doll" added her older sister.
"Possessed by the soul of a murderer and psycho!"
Ozpin and Qrow have already left the medical bay while the sisters were arguing. Pyrrha shook her head and the Arc only sighed.
Night has fallen and Jaune decided to get some fresh air. He was standing at the roof of the dorm building. It was nostalgic for the blond leader, good memories and troubling one like when Cardin found out about his forged transcripts. There was nothing else to do. The training was over and he has done the best to prepare himself and his team. It was killing him what will Cinder do in this time line. The Arc wanted to stay positive but it was impossible when he knew the evil woman will make her attack under a new plan. His blue eyes were on the half missing moon. The question he was asking himself how will he be able to get some sleep with everything that was awaiting him tomorrow. Could he really changed the fate of Beacon for the better, he didn't know. His scroll beeped getting a text message. Jaune opened the device reading it.
From Weiss:
*My team is ready for the tournament and Cinder. I hope your team is ready as well.*
The Arc smiled forgetting that team WNRB left Beacon to get some training. They must have chosen a random location away from the border. Probably killing some Grimm. It was definitely the best training to prepare for the Vytal Festival. The blond decided to text her back telling the Schnee heiress that his team is very well ready for the worse to come. Closing the device, he went back to stared at the incomplete moon.
"Still awake?"
The blond leader turned to see Pyrrha walking over to him.
"I can't sleep. Tomorrow is the big day."
"I guess it can't be helped. Ruby and Yang are fast asleep after deciding to watch an action movie" the red head smiled.
"It was a good movie."
"And yet you're still awake."
"What about you? You're still awake."
"I came to check up on you. You can't sleep late. You know we have a big day tomorrow."
"How could I forget...After so long it's finally going to happen. The tournament and eventually the invasion. The mere thought scares me."
"You really have to stop thinking about that past time line Jaune and move on. I know it's not that easy but you to have learn to let at one point."
"I know but it's just...The things I saw. So many got hurt, killed, so much destruction and then you…." blue eyes widened in shock.
"Hm? What about me?"
"Um I...Nothing, it's nothing ignore it."
"Jaune…." the champion started" I thought you told us everything back at the Vault."
"I did-No, I didn't. There's more but it's too painful to bring it up. And wait, I thought you didn't believe me. Ruby and Yang think I'm crazy."
"I trust you so I'm willing to take the chance to believe you. And you, do you trust me?"
"Of course I do, what kind of dumb question is that?"
"Do you?"
"You want me to tell you?"
"I'm sorry for acting stubborn. But if something is bothering you then maybe I can help you feel better" Pyrrha cleared her throat as her cheeks turned red.
"Okay. I did promise to say everything and not to keep things from you guys ever again. In the original time line Amber is also the Fall Maiden. But she got attacked by Cinder months before the Beacon initiation and she managed to take some of her powers. That left her in comatose state and Ozpin has been keeping her in that machine you saw at the Vault. It's suppose to be a machine that transfers aura to another person. Ozpin chose you to become the next Fall Maiden because she didn't had much time, she was dying."
"Me?" the red head was shocked that she will be chosen to become a maiden.
"You accepted to volunteered. During the attack I was present when Ozpin was about to transfer Amber's powers and aura to you. The procedure wasn't safe, they have never got the chance to taste it. No one knew if you will survive or die. But Cinder beat us as she found the Vault and killed her with an arrow. The result her remaining powers were transfer to her and she become too strong. We managed to escape while Ozpin was fighting her…."
Pyrrha wasn't taking her eyes off him his body was shaking, his fists were being clenched. Tears were forming on the blond.
"You decided to go and fight her. You told me to go but I refused. Then you made me go to a locker rocket propeller."
"You actually let me sent you to one?" it didn't made sense to the champion.
"I…." Jaune's cheeks were burning red now" well you keep my busy...You-uh...Well, you kissed me…."
The red head blushed now her face was resembling the color of her hair.
"I landed somewhere in Vale while you went to fight Cinder. The cameras from the tournament were still rolling and I saw the whole fight and the end. Pyrrha...She killed you…."
"…..."
"First she shot an arrow on your heel and then she shot one in your heart, killing you on the spot" tears fell as his eyes narrowed in anger" but she wasn't done. She touched your forehead and burned you to ashes. You were gone, just like that…." he dried his tears.
Pyrrha stood silent as she grabbed Jaune's side of his face looking deeply into his blue eyes. For once in her life, she felt like there was no need to say any words. So she did what herself from the original time line did with the Arc. She kissed his lips passionately as his eyes widened but accepted the kiss, returning it with the same passion. They stood there for like a minute before breaking it. They stood in silence as their eyes met.
"You must have been so hurt with my death."
"More than you know. It tore me apart. I have had nightmares where Cinder kills you, Ruby and Yang. It's horrible, I don't know if I can go on if I lose all of you."
"It's impossible to make promises you don't know if you can keep them. Jaune I promise, I will not die."
"No you won't…." there was so much determination in the Arc's eyes.
"Because I'm going to kill Cinder before she gets the chance."
To be continued
-Leaving it there and thus alternate volume 3 will begin in the next chapter. I can say it's going to get dark and very emotional. That's all I will say.
-It was so emotional Jaune's reunion with Summer I cried. I was waiting so long to finally write that scene.
-So Jaune finally told his team the whole truth about him being from the future. Obviously they didn't believed him but Qrow telling them about the maidens, the relics and Salem it adds up to an even more crazier story.
-Saw volume 6 trailer and it got me more hype if that's possible.
-Finally I'll be taking a break from this story to resume Proving his Worth and of course updating Journey to Redemption with volume 5. But don't worry I will return to this story eventually. I already have volume 3 planned since the beginning of this story.
-The Jaune/Pyrrha kiss yes I planned it all along. Don't worry Ruby will get her chance too.
-Replying to reviews and PM's:
*Prime's apprentice- I have two problems with that story. One, I have a huge writers block and two lack of inspiration to continue writing. Honestly I don't know when I will update that story.
*NinjaFang1331- thank you glad you enjoyed Summer waking up.
*MEleeSmasher- I do hope v6 is better. Honestly I didn't like how Blake was handled in the last volume but at least she's not running away anymore. That's positive in her character development. And I'm sure the next time she sees Adam she will fight him with her team by her side.
*Patriot-112- here you go hope you enjoy it.
*Dcraus- I have two future RWBY/Tales crossover projects. One is with Graces F and the other is with Vesperia. If I'm done with Proving his Worth I might start the Graces one since ZonZus is helping me with it giving me ideas. The Vesperia will definitely be some time around 2019 can't say exactly when though.
*Rentable Scroll Publishing- if you know very well the Fate series then you must know already. The summon is both a caster and an assassin. Now think who has those two attributes in the series?
*GunBlade2018- thank you I'm glad you like the chapter.
*Vanitas50- Summer was in a coma for 7 years not 8 lol.
*Bleachered shinigami pokemon- I sent you a PM with my answer.
*Silver Wolf 211- I focused more on Jaune's reaction than the sister. But they were overjoyed with tears to see their mother back. And Qrow wouldn't hug her not with his semblance.
-Off topic I added more challenge stories on my profile page. Two RWBY crossovers with the Walking Dead. One is with the Telltale game series and the other with the television series. Remember if you want to take any of the challenges let me know with a PM.
-As always thank you very much for the favs, follows and reviews I really appreciate it.
Next time: Vytal part 1