Jaune and Courage the Cowardly Dog
Chap 30: The Magic Tree of Nowhere
It was a gorgeous day today. Sunny day. Not too hot with a nice breeze. The kind of day you can't just spend alone. Which is one of the reasons I'm glad Iris came to visit today. Though right now, I am actually on the fence about that somewhat. The reason for the being that Team Rwby decided to visit since they had some time off. And when they got here, they were all shocked, aside from Blake who already knew, that Iris the storm goddess is my girlfriend. I was initially worried that they might not take it so well or just in general something bad might happen.
"So, you really call Jaune Vomit Boy from time to time?" Iris asked Yang trying her hardest not to laugh.
"Sure do. After all, he earned that nickname." Yang answered smirking at the memories.
Luckily nothing bad happen. Fortunately, they all agreed to keep the fact that Iris is a storm goddess secret. After the initial shock wore off, they very quickly became friends and are now sharing stories about me. Mainly embarrassing ones. That's why I'm not with them in the living room. I'm in the kitchen with Blake and Ruby making some breakfast with the help of Muriel. Eustace though, was being his usual self as in not helping anyone and just sitting at the table demanding food.
"So, Jaune. What's it like dating Iris?" Ruby asked as we took out the egg and crab muffin from the oven. We had decided to go with a fish meal today for breakfast. Egg crab and muffin as a side to the main dish which was shrimp broccoli seafood breakfast frittata.
"Not that different from dating a normal person I would say. Aside from the fact that she has powers of storms." I answered after giving it a thought.
"Don't forget that if you get her mad, she can easily zap you with lightning." Blake added smirking.
"Yeah, that too." I said smiling as I started to bring out plates from the cabinets.
*BANG*
"What was that?" Blake asked worried at the sudden sound.
"Most likely the package Muriel ordered." I answered before turning to the sink to wash my hands. "I'll check Muriel."
"Thanks, Jaune." Muriel said as she helped Ruby set the table with Blake plating the food.
Smiling, I dried my hands and headed to the door. Exiting the kitchen, I walked past the rest of Team Rwby who were trading stories with Iris. And even though it was mainly embarrassing ones, I just smiled and chuckled as it was all in good fun. Passing by them, and giving Iris a peck on the cheek, I went to the front door and opened it. Looking around, I saw package that read it's from the company 'Farm and House.' Though it was severely banged up and looked like it was about to fall apart. Opening it, I was relieved to see that the curtains that Muriel ordered were still fine.
"What's in the package vomit boy?" Yang asked walking up to me. In the back, I heard Iris giggle a bit while Weiss rolled her eyes yet still had a smile.
"Just some curtains that Muriel ordered." I answered as I closed the box and picked it up.
"Come everyone. Breakfast is ready." Muriel called out from the kitchen.
"Coming." We all said as we made our way into the kitchen. Entering we saw all the food was set and Blake struggling not to just pounce on her food with drool coming out of her mouth.
"Who was at the door Jaune?" Muriel asked.
"Just this package containing the curtains you ordered." I answered.
"Marvelous. How do you all like these new kitchen curtains?" Muriel asked showing off the curtains.
"Their beautiful." Weiss answered with the others agreeing.
"Yeah, blah, blah, blah." Eustace said dismissively earning a glare from everyone in the kitchen aside from Muriel who didn't notice any.
"And they came with a complimentary packet of seeds." Muriel added taking off the packet that was attached to the top of the curtains.
"What!? Seeds? Ain't nothing grown here in fifty years." Eustace said as he took the package and took out the seeds.
"So, we're just going to ignore the plant you grew on the harvest moon and the plants Muriel and I grew a few weeks ago?" I asked glaring at him.
"Bah! You don't know nothing about farming. I'm a farmer. Anyway, these seeds ain't growing seeds." Esutace grumbled bitterly as he threw the seeds out through the open window.
'OOF!'Courage grunted in surprise from outside which reminded us that he was outside making sandcastles.
"I'll go check on Courage." I said walking to the door.
"I'll come with." Iris said following me. Soon followed by Team Rwby as well. Stepping outside, we saw Courage sniffing the seeds curiously.
"You okay Courage?" I asked seeing that his castle got destroyed.
'Fine. But what kind of seeds are these?' He answered.
"What did he say Jaune?" Ruby asked.
"That he's fine but curious about the seeds as he doesn't recognize them at all." I answered.
"Well, they are seeds either way. Might as well plant them in the ground." Weiss stated.
'Might as well.' Courage said as he moved away from with seeds. Moving to him, I moved the soil a bit to make a hole so Courage can put them in.
"There. I wonder-" I began but stopped when a thunderstorm cloud appeared out of thin air. "Um, Iris? Did you make that cloud?"
"No, I didn't" She answered curious and worried as thunder started to come from it.
"Then I don't think it's a good idea to stay under there Jaune." Blake said taking a few steps back. But before me and Courage could do the same, rain started to come down really hard from the cloud. So hard that it knocked both me and Courage to the ground and nearly drowned us as a result. Fortunately, it only lasted a few seconds with the cloud disappearing just as quickly as it came.
"You okay Jaune?" Iris asked as she helped me up while Ruby helped Courage up.
"Yeah, I'm fine. Just soaked to bone." I answered before turning to Courage. "How about you?"
'Fine.' He answered as he shook himself dry while also getting some water on Blake who hissed at him.
"Hey look. The seeds are growing." Yang said pointing to where we planted the seeds. Looking over there, we saw indeed that they were growing and a little sprout had already grown above the soil.
"That was quick." Wiess said surprised. But we all quickly shared in that surprise when the sprout suddenly and very quickly grew into a nearly full-grown tree in a matter of seconds. It even had leaves growing on all its branches. And on the very top, there were beautiful flowers growing.
"Oh, my. Did you all do this?" Muriel asked surprised as she came up behind us. We would have answered but we were all too shocked at what just happened to say anything. Only when Eustace complained from behind us did we snap back to focus.
"I've never grown anything. Not even weeds. But that stupid dog and kids can grow trees. Argh!" Eustace bitterly complained.
"Because you don't know how to farm." I shouted to him with the others agreeing with me.
"Now, Jaune that wasn't... Do you smell something burning?" Muriel began but stopped and asked when she smelt something burning.
"Hey, smoke is coming from the kitchen." Ruby shouted pointing to the kitchen.
"MY PIE!" Muriel shouted before running into the house regardless that a lot of smoke was coming out now. The rest of us followed her inside and saw that the oven broke down yet again and was now quickly burning the pie that Muriel was making for dessert.
"Stand back." I told Muriel as I opened the stove and pulled out the now burnt pie. Which also let out a lot more smoke as well. Luckily, Weiss and Blake already opened the windows and door while Iris created some wind to make the smoke go out faster.
"Oh, Eustace. I wish I had a new oven." Muriel wished as she tossed the ruined pie into the trash.
"Did anyone else hear that?" Weiss asked.
"You mean a loud thumping sound? Yes." I answered.
'Look outside. A stove.' Courage said pointing to the tree.
"Is that a new oven?" Muriel asked shocked.
"Where did that come from?" Yang asked that a perfectly new and shiny stove just appeared from thin air.
"I have no idea." I answered.
"Go have a look Eustace." Muriel told him.
"Why me?" He asked annoyed. But all the same, he went over to the stove all the while grumbling.
"Bring it in. Bring it in." Muriel said excitedly. Eustace tried to lift but struggled and nearly fell backwards and get crushed. He tried it again only to go in the other direction and nearly get crushed again. But with the third try he managed to get it inside the house.
"AAAHHHH!" Eustace groaned in pain as e he stood up with his back cracking from the abuse, he just put it through.
"Thank you all for the new oven and that lovely tree." Muriel said happy.
"You welcome." We all said while Eustace grumbled bitterly.
"Hey, Yang. Help me push the oven into place?" I asked her.
"Sure, thing Vomit boy." She answered with a smirk while the others just laughed. Going up to it, we pushed it against the wall where I then hooked it up.
"Now, how about we all enjoy our seafood breakfast now?" Muriel suggested. We all agreed, especially Blake, at this. Sitting down, we begun to enjoy our food.
Two Hours Later
'Vroom' Courage said imitating a truck as he used his toy construction vehicle.
We were outside making some more sandcastles. Well, me, Ruby and Courage. Muriel and Blake were in the kitchen making another pie in the new oven that Muriel just adored. Yang was gossiping with Iris in my room. And Weiss was in the kitchen as well looking over a few things on her scroll. Eustace was taking a nap in the living room.
"Jaune, how did you learn to make sand castles this well?" Ruby asked with childlike curiosity as we put the finishing touches on her castle.
"Trial and error mainly. But also, during the few times I babysat my nephew, one common toy he was given was building sand. And I learned mostly from that. It also kept him occupied so he wouldn't cause a mess." I answered.
"Neat." Ruby said as we put a little flag on her castle.
'Ohh.' Courage whined next to us. Turning to him, we saw that his toy broke.
"I got it Courage." I told him as I fixed it. He smiled and tried to use it again only for the same thing to happen again. "Don't worry Courage. We'll get you a new one."
"Yeah, a much bigger and better one." Ruby agreed.
'At that point, we might as well get an actual one.' Courage said with a sad chuckle. I was about to cheer him up again but couldn't when we all jumped in shock when a loud crash happened nearby.
"What was that?" Ruby asked as we got up. Only to nearly fall back down in surprise as we saw a giant construction vehicle.
"Um, a giant construction vehicle." I answered as we approached it.
'Huh, ask and you shall receive.' Courage joked at how it appeared when we needed/ wanted one. Shaking my head, I climbed up the vehicle and checked inside. And to my surprise, the keys were also inside and it had a full tank of diesel.
"What do you see Jaune?" Ruby shouted form the bottom. I just turned back to her and smiled.
"Want to go for a ride?" I asked.
Ten Minutes later
"What fun, you three." Muriel said happily.
"Again." Ruby shouted having the time of her life.
"CAREFUL, YOU FOUR!" Yang shouted from on top of the farmhouse.
After we saw that the keys, were in the machine, we decided to have some fun with it. The rest of Team Rwby and Iris along with Muriel came rushing out when they heard the loud crash and were worried that something happened. But after a bit of explaining, they were relieved and were now on the roof cheering us on as Courage, Muriel, Ruby and I were riding around in the thing and just picking up dirt and putting it somewhere else.
"Hold on then Ruby." I said as I moved the levers and stepped on the gas to make the vehicle go extremely fast around the farm. Which made Ruby giggle like the little girl she is.
"I SAID BE CAREFUL! DON'T MAKE ME COME DOWN AFTER YOU ALL!" Yang shouted with her eyes turning red from anger.
"Calm down Yang. Jaune know what he is doing." Iris told her unflinching at the glare Yang sent her way.
"Lighten up Yang. Despite the flaws Jaune may have, we all know that he would never do anything if he knew there was a risk of hurting someone he cares about." Weiss added.
"Sorry, just want to make sure my baby sister is alright." Yang explained calming down. As she sat down, we continued to have fun around the farm with the machine. That is until Eustace decided to kill it.
"STOP THAT RACKET! I'm taking my nap." Eustace shouted popping out of the living room window.
"Oh, Courage, Jaune. Turn it off. Turn it off." Muriel quickly told us.
"Wait that's for-" I began when I saw Courage panic and switch the levers thinking it would turn it off. When instead it released the hatch underneath the part used to pick up the dirt. Which released all the dirt we picked up and dropped it on Eustace. "Releasing the dirt another way."
"HAHAHAHA" Team Rwby and Iris all laughed at what just happened to Eustace.
"Oh, my sides." Ruby exclaimed as her sides started to hurt from how much she was laughing.
"Stupid dog." We all heard Eustace say buried underneath all the dirt which just made us laugh even more. Even Muriel cracked a smile.
9:30 P.M. Outside next to the Tree
"This is nice." Iris said sitting on my lap.
"Yeah, it is." I agreed with a smile.
It was one of the best nights we had here in Nowhere in a long time. The moon shone brightly in the sky with thousands of stars also shining brightly. Making a beautiful show for anyone who watches the night sky. So naturally, we decided to bring out the couch and a few chairs to enjoy the night. Muriel was in her chair with Courage on her lap. Team Rwby were on the couch. Blake was eating a tuna snack she made earlier and just enjoying the peaceful silence. Weiss was listening to some music she had on her scroll every time she wants to really relax. Yang and Ruby were playing a game together on their scrolls. Iris was sitting on my lap as we enjoyed the silent night and each other's company.
"Eustace where are you going?" Muriel asked when we saw Eustace coming towards us wearing a jacket.
"I'm going to the picture show. I'm not wanted around here anyway." Eustace answered angrily before heading over to his truck.
"I wish we could see a movie." Muriel said looking down at Courage.
"A movie would definitely sound good right now." Yang agreed.
"What kind of movie would you guys even be interested in watching?" I asked as I knew that it takes Team Rwby about half an hour to decide on anything like this.
"How about a black and white movie?" Weiss suggested.
"That is fine as long as it's not a completely silent movie." Yang added.
"How about something with cheesy horror?" Ruby suggested.
"I thought you didn't like horror Ruby?" I asked her.
"If it's cheesy horror or the old kinds she does like those. But it's the current ones that just used sound as suspense that scares her." Yang explained.
"How about you Blake? Does a horror movie sound good?" I asked her.
"Why not? Haven't seen one in a while." She answered as she finished her snack.
"Great, now we just need set it up." Iris said happily. But as soon as she said that, a flickering light came from the tree.
"Huh?" Weiss asked surprised as we looked at the tree and wondered where that light came from and why it's in the tree.
"OOOHHHH!" Muriel said surprised. Turning to her, we saw that she was looking at the side of the house. Looking to the farm, we saw a black and white horror movie was being played. One that fit perfectly with what we wanted.
"This tree certainly is a wonder." Weiss said marveling at what the tree can do.
"Now all we need is some popcorn and drinks." I said chuckling.
"And some fish snacks for me." Blake added. And to our surprise, a stand filled with popcorn, drinks and snacks came from the tree.
"Looks like we have someone else looking out for this place." Blake said as she grabbed herself a fish snack and drink.
"Thank you, tree." I said giving it a light pat before tuning to grab my popcorn and drink along with the ones for Iris. But as I patted the tree in thanks, I could not help but feel that it was alive in the sense that it also had a soul.
"This place truly is mysterious and full of surprises." Yang said as she ate some popcorn.
"Oh, my. Isn't it grand to have a tree?" Muriel asked as Courage gave her some popcorn.
"It sure is Muriel." I answered her as we watched the movie in peace. However, that peace did not last long as we heard the engines of Eustace's truck roar.
'AAAHHHHH!' Courage screamed suddenly. Hearing the sounds of tires screeching, we all quickly turned around and saw Eustace driving his truck at high speeds with intent to bring down the tree.
"WATCH OUT!" I shouted as I quickly got up and pulled bot Iris and Ruby out of the way.
"I got it." Yang shouted as she moved in front of the truck and managed to stop it.
"GET OUT OF THE WAY!" Eustace shouted at Yang and tried to back up but Yang did not lessen her grip. In fact, she tightened it to make sure he doesn't leave.
"Eustace! Where are your marbles?" Muriel demanded walking up to him.
"I'm taking it down Muriel. Now all of you get out of the way." Eustace demanded as he tried to back away again. Only to realize that his tires were not moving at all. Looking down, he saw that each tire was now covered in ice. "What's huh?"
"You're not leaving Mr. Bagge." Weiss told him through a glare.
"We need this tree, Eustace. It's providing for us." Muriel told Eustace.
"But that's my job. Rotten tree." Eustace complained but was silenced when Yang knocked him out with a single punch. Her reason, for endangering her baby sister.
"Oh well, thanks to Eustace, the nice peaceful night is ruined. Anyway, it's getting late. We should probably head to bed now. Good night all." Muriel said as she and Courage went inside.
"Does he have to ruin everything Jaune?" Weiss asked referring to Eustace.
"If it makes him look bad or feel unneeded then yes." I answered with a shake of my head.
"Well, like Muriel said. It is getting quite late. We should head to sleep." Blake said checking the time on her scroll. We all nodded, thought Ruby complained a bit, and went back inside and headed to bed.
Morning
"Oh." Muriel moaned in pain as she rubbed her head. Which was now extremely enlarged and had green bumps on it. She also had an ice bag on her head to try and ease some of the pain.
"Muriel, what did you do to yourself?" Eustace asked.
"Courage, could you get me some water, dear?" Muriel weakly asked him.
'Sure. Be right back.' Courage answered as he ran to the kitchen.
"Ms. Bagge. We should take you to the doctor." Weiss told Muriel worried. She had her scroll out and was trying to find what disease Muriel caught but was coming up short. But before Muriel could say anything, Eustace spoke up.
"What about breakfast?" He asked.
"No, thank you, Eustace. I couldn't eat a bite." Muriel answered.
"I meant for me." Eustace complained.
"If you're so hungry. Why not make it yourself you jack ass?" Iris asked through clenched teeth as she struggled to make sure her storm doesn't come out and cause a mess. This caused Eustace to grumble and walk away. At that moment, Courage came back and handed the water to Muriel.
"Thank you, Courage." Muriel said as she grabbed the glass of water but struggled to get to her mouth.
"Let me help Muriel." Blake said as she helped Muriel drink the water.
"Jaune. Can't you call the family doctor to come and take a look at Muriel?" Yang asked.
"Yeah, it's just he's not the greatest in treating people." I answered.
"How bad can he be? OH! Is he one that gives lots of shots to people?" Ruby asked.
"Ruby, now's not the time." Wiess told her before turning to me. "Jaune, Muriel is in pain. I'm sure as long as he is a doctor that he can help in finding out whatever is plaguing her."
"Alright. I'll call him. Just don't be surprised by one of the worst doctors ever." I told her as I went to the kitchen to call Dr. Vindaloo.
Ten Minutes Later
"Tsk. Tsk. Tsk. This is the worst case of bully bully I have ever seen." Dr. Vindaloo said as he used his stethoscope on Muriel's head for some reason.
"What?" Eustace asked confused.
'NO!' Courage shouted panicked. But went silent a moment later and gained a look of confusion. 'Bully Bully?'
"I never heard of that disease." Yang said confused.
"Um, are you sure you're a doctor?" Weiss asked as she began to see what I meant by what I meant earlier.
"I am a doctor. And don't you worry all. I will do everything in medical science." Dr. Vindaloo said as he turned to face Muriel. He then put on some gloves and began to do something. He then brought out a toy hammed and started using it on one of the green bumps on Muriel's head. Next, he took out some scissors and started to cut the hairs that were on Muriel's head. And finally, he took out a wrench and used it to tighten something judging by the sound that was made.
"Ah, nothing to worry about." Dr. Vindaloo said turning back around and taking off his gloves.
"Um, I may not be too familiar with medicine practices, but what did you just do?" Iris asked.
"Everything known to medical science." Dr. Vindaloo answered.
"You just pulled out random things that makes no sense. Can't you do something actually science or medical?" Yang asked astounded at what she just saw.
"I'm sorry. But there is nothing I can do." Dr. Vindaloo answered. He then turned to the door and exited the house and left.
'OOOH!' Courage screamed in terror.
"I thought that you were just kidding Jaune. But after that display, I believe you." Weiss said tuning to me.
"Yeah, he's not the best. But he is the only doctor in Nowhere. So, there really isn't any other option." I told her. They all seemed surprised at this but before any of them could say anything, Eustace spoke up again.
"This is all your fault. Every single one of you and that rotten tree. Now I gotta order take out for breakfast." Eustace complained before leaving the room.
"He truly is insufferable." Blake said watching Eustace's retreating form.
'Wait, maybe the tree can help us?' Courage asked.
"Worth a shot." I answered.
"What is?" Yang asked.
"Courage suggested we ask the tree for help." Blake translated.
"I would say that's farfetched, but considering everything that it has already done, it is worth a shot." Weiss stated. We all nodded at this and raced outside. Getting to the tree we began to wonder how to start this thing.
"So, um. How do we start asking the tree for help?" Weiss asked.
"By simply asking young one." The tree suddenly answered.
'AAAHHHHH!' Courage screamed when he saw the treen not only answer Weiss question but open its eyes and mouth. Normally, that wouldn't seem so scary but considering the eyes and mouth seemed to be that of a human creeped us out.
"Um, will Courage be, okay?" Ruby asked as she pointed to Courage whose skin came flying off his body in terror.
"He'll be fine." I answered looking to Courage who pulled from somewhere a suit that looked exactly like him and out it on.
"Your dog is one of a kind Jaune." Weiss said amazed at what she just saw which caused Courage to laugh a bit.
"Do not be afraid Courage. I will not harm any of you. For it is only in my nature to help others." The tree said calming us down.
"Um, Mr. Tree?" Ruby asked walking up.
"Yes, Ruby Rose." The tree answered.
"Thank you for everything you have gave us these past few days. We really appreciate it." She said awkwardly.
"You're welcome. But now is not the time for the past. You all have a request of me. To help the one you call Muriel with the sickness she came down with." The tree said reminding us.
"Yes. We were wondering if you could give us the cure." Blake told him.
"Do not fret. I have the cure you all seek..." The tree began
'Yeah.' Courage shouted in joy.
"That's a relief." Yang said relieved.
"But I suspect there is something else as well. Something bad." Iris said getting our attention.
"You are correct Storm Goddess. It will take three days for the cure. But in three days, I will be gone." The tree explained.
'NOOO!' Courage screamed in horror at what the tree just said.
"We won't let that happen." I told the tree.
"Yeah, we'll protect you." Ruby added.
"Anything worth its value, is worth fighting for." The tree wisely told us.
'Huh?' Courage asked confused.
"What do you mean?" Iris asked. But we got our answer when we heard Eustace laughing in the nearby barn.
"Eustace, I knew he would be the one to try and chop down this tree." I sighed in aggravation.
"Don't worry Jaune. We'll help you defend the tree." Ruby said confidently with the other agreeing.
"Thanks guys." I told them with a smile.
"No problem Vomit boy." Yang said with a smirk which caused the others to chuckle as well.
"Okay, so what should we do first?" Blake asked.
'I'd say build a castle wall surrounding it and make a moat.' Courage suggested.
"Good idea Courage." I told him.
"Um, anyone care to translate?" Yang asked.
"Courage suggested that we build a castle wall around the tree and just outside of it we put a moat." I translated.
"That good for defending against anything that Eustace could try." Blake said thing it over.
"Then let's get to work." Iris told us which we nodded and did so.
One hour later
It was a tedious hour making the defenses to protect the tree. Thankfully it was made easier using the vehicle the tree gave us earlier to make the moat and build the castle. And with Iris's powers we were able to quickly fill the moat with water that was a good fifteen feet deep. Just for added measures, Courage added a package of instant eel to the moat. We were all confused by that as we did not think that it work but were proven wrong when an actual eel suddenly appeared from the moat scaring Courage. But we quickly became confused when the eel started singing the song 'Danny Boy.'
"Okay, is everyone ready?" Yang asked. We all nodded in answer.
"Just remember everyone, as much as we all despise Eustace, let's try not to kill him as Muriel will be really upset with us." I reminded them. They sighed before reluctantly agreeing.
'He's coming.' Courage warned us. Turning around, we climbed the steps we put to be able to look over the castle walls.
"Um, ew. Why is he dressed like that?" Yang asked when we saw Eustace wear a ridiculous looking 'battle gear' along with a cape that sort of resembled a bear. But what grossed us out was that Eustace was not wearing any pants which showed everyone his hairy legs.
"AAAHHHH! CHOP! CHOP! CHOP!" Eustace shouted as he ran towards us.
'Quick, use these.' Courage said handing us a few bags full of marbles.
"What are we supposed to use with these?" Blake asked.
'Trip him up.' Courage answered as he began to rapidly throw them in front of Eustace.
"Not sure this will work but okay." Weiss said as she also began to throw them. Very quickly, we tossed out all of them.
"Told you this wouldn't work." Weiss said with a frown. Only to g wide eyed when Eustace just ran on top of them.
"OOOH!" Eustace shouted as he tripped over the marbles and flew into the moat where he flew out in fear with the eel coming out after him and roaring.
"I stand corrected." Weiss said facepalming.
"Man, I knew Eustace was an ass, but chop down a tree just to feel better is taking it to a whole new level. Luckily, he isn't the smartest so that helps." Yang said watching Eustace running for his life from the eel.
"But he will be back." Iris reminded us of Eustace's sheer stubbornness. "Like now."
"Is he really going to try and toss a rock to get over the wall?" Ruby asked surprised. Eustace had placed a large rubber band around a rock and was now swinging said rock and use the momentum to fly over the wall.
'Don't worry I got this.' Courage said as he hopped onto the wall.
"What are you doing Courage?" Iris asked. But got her answer when Courage put on a baseball helmet and pulled out a baseball bat and got into a stance. Even some baseball music started to play from somewhere.
"Come on Courage. You can do this. Send out to right field." Ruby chanted like a baseball coach. We all chuckled at how cute she was being for moment but grew confused when Courage suddenly put the baseball bat behind him and relaxed his stance. But we got out answer when Eustace did not put enough strength in his swing, came up short and hit the wall.
"BALL!" Ruby shouted this time wearing an umpire's mask.
"That's going to leave a mark." Blake said when she saw Eustace hit the rock hard before falling into the water.
*CRUNCH*
"AAAHHHH!" A sickening crunch was heard before Eustace screamed in pain and flew out of the water again.
"And so will that?" Weiss said smirking when we realized that the crunch was the eel biting Eustace in the ass.
"I AIN'T DONE YET!" Eustace shouted getting our attention. Looking over to him, we saw that he was about to try the same thing again. And this time, it seemed like he would actually get over the wall.
"Yang, will you care to do the honors?" I asked her.
"Sure, thing vomit boy." She said with a wink as she hoped onto the wall. "Watch how a real slugger hits."
"Go Yang!" Ruby chanted. We all just laughed again at her cuteness again.
"HOME... RUN!" Yang shouted as she punched the rock just as it reached her.
"AAAHHHHH!" Eustace shouted as he was sent flying into the air and over a great distance. A loud boom followed by smoke raising told us that he finally landed.
Two hours later
"Okay, it'll be done soon." I translated what Courage said. It has been two hours since we saw Eustace and we were getting a bit hungry. Luckily, we brought some food with us to make as we knew we were going to be here a while. Right now, Courage is making us some gumbo.
"All right. I'm starved." Yang shouted as she came up to us. Chucking, we poured her a bowl.
"What do you think Eustace will try next to come in?" Iris asked.
"I have no idea. But we must be ready for it." I answered as I served her a bowl. Soon, everyone had a bowl and was happily eating.
"Looks like we have enough of this gumbo for the rest of the day and tomorrow." Blake said as she ate her food. Courage nodded at this as he continued to stir the gumbo to make sure it doesn't burn.
"AAAHHHHH!" We all heard Eustace scream.
"Crap. Where's he coming from?" I asked as we began to look around for him.
'Found him.' Courage answered as we heard a splash. Turning to Courage, we saw that Eustace landed in the pot that we used to hold the gumbo.
"AAHHHHH!" Eustace screamed as the gumbo burned his ass which sent him flying into the air.
"I think I just lost my appetite." Weiss said after seeing Eustace land in the food.
"Same." We all said agreeing with her. We then moved to edge and looked into the water as we had not yet heard Eustace come out.
"Is he still alive?" Blake asked worried.
'If you will bend, and tell me that you love me.' Both Eustace and the eel sand as they rose from the water. But as soon as they finished that verse, the eel roared and bit down on Eustace and started shaking him around.
"Well, that answers that." Iris said as we walked back down from the wall. All the while noticing that the wall was slowly getting destroyed.
Three days later
"He sure is one stubborn ass." Yang said tired.
It has been three days since we learned of the tree's fate. And so far, we have been successful in protecting it. Eustace tried many different ways to get in but all failed. He tried to parachute in but Iris created a gust of wind which sent him flying into the moat. He also tried to use his truck to jump in with a ramp he hastily made. But thanks to Ruby's semblance and ice dust Weiss had, the ramp came undone and when Eustace tried to break, he lost control as his tires had no grip on the ice Weiss made in front of his truck which caused him to crash into the moat. Then get chased out by the eel again. Unfortunately, it seemed that the eel actually had an expiration date. And that when it finished its son, it would turn to mush. Which meant that Eustace could not swim across. But that was prevented thanks to Iris who struck the moat with a lightning bolt, it was now electrified. Though, because Eustace is Eustace, he tried to swim anyway and received one hell of a shock. But now, we were extra cautious as today was the day was the day the tree said he would be gone.
"I wonder if he will ever give up?" Weiss wondered. But before anyone could answer, someone called us on Courage's phone.
'Uh-huh.' Courage answered taking his phone out and answering the call.
"Who was it Courage?" I asked as he put it away.
'That was Dr. Vindaloo. He says he has a cure for Muriel.' He answered.
"Thats good." Blake said getting up.
"What's good?" Weiss asked.
"Courage said the doctor from a few days ago has the cure for Muriel." Blake translated.
"Thats good. But if we leave, Eustace can easily get in and chop down the tree." Yang reminded.
"Not to mention, it's a bit far his office. So, we would need Eustace's truck but it's in the electrified moat." I added.
"Uh, Jaune. Don't forget that I can teleport us to the doctor's office." Iris reminded.
"Okay. How about you, Jaune and Courage go to the doctor and get the cure while we stay here to defend the tree?" Ruby suggested.
"Okay. Hang on tight you two." Iris said grabbing Courage's and my hands.
"We'll be back soon." I told them before we disappeared.
Dr. Vindaloo Office
"Now that is the only way to travel." I said as we instantly appeared in the hallway leading to Dr. Vindaloo's office. Running down the hall, we saw his office and entered to see him with a giant container filled with weird green something in it.
"Dr. Vindaloo. We're here for the cure." I said getting his attention.
"Ahh, you're here. You're in luck. Through my incredible powers of deduction, I discovered the remedy. This will cure your broken leg." Dr. Vindaloo said before handing us the container and leaving the room.
"You're kidding." Iris said looking between the container and where Dr. Vindaloo just left.
"I should have seen this coming." I said facepalming.
'Yeah, same here.' Courage said irritated.
"Okay, let's just head back now." Iris said trying desperately to control herself from chasing after the doctor and striking him with lightning.
"Right." I agreed as Iris took us back to the farmhouse.
Farmhouse Inside the Fort
"Okay. We're back- what happened?" I asked when we saw Eustace groaning defeated and being held by the foot by Yang.
"He tried one last attempt to get in. However, he miscalculated and landed on the dust I was taking stock on to see how much we had left." Weiss began explaining.
"And not missing a beat, I hit him in the face as hard as I could. Man, it felt good hitting him for all the crap he does and spews." Yang finished.
"Stupid kids. Stupid dog." Eustace weakly said before passing out.
"Now, what?" Iris asked as Yang dropped Eustace to the ground where Ruby then tied him up with some rope we had.
"Now, is time for you to collect the remedy." The tree suddenly answered startling us.
'Yeah.' Courage shouted in joy.
"Courage. I have the remedy you all seek. Pick all the flowers from my branches and mix with pure hornet's honey. This is the cure." The tree told Courage who immediately climbed the tree to do so. "Now, for the rest of you."
"What do you mean? We're not sick." Yang asked confused.
"Not to mention, you said you will be chopped down in three days. Today is the third day with Eustace defeated." Blake added.
"I did not say I will be chopped down. I said I will be gone. That does not mean dead. I have the power to grant wishes and while I can say no to a wish. My power will attract other that could harm you. That is why, I must leave." The tree explained.
"Right. That makes sense." I said sadly as what he said was true.
"But. Before I go. I will grant you all one wish. Though, I already know the wishes you want." The tree told us.
"Really?" Ruby asked hopeful.
"Yes, anything you desire." The tree answered. "But a warning will come with each wish. Now, what is your wish Ruby Rose?"
"I wish I had my mother Summer Rose back with me. She went missing a long time ago and is mostly like dead." Ruby answered looking down trying to hold back her tears. But her head snapped back up when the tree glowed a bit.
"It is done. But I must warn you, while I have brought her back, it does not mean the fate she met before won't come again. You can stop it though. But remember, to enjoy every moment you have with her." The tree told her.
"I will. But where is she?" Ruby asked teary eyed. She then received her answer when Courage suddenly screamed.
'AAAHHHH! OOF' Courage screamed before grunting in pain when he came falling down from a tree and cushioning the fall of a lady.
"Where am I?" Said lady asked looking around.
"MOM!" Ruby shouted running up to her along with Yang.
"Ruby!? Yang?! Is that really you? How am I here? I thought I was dead?" The lady asked as she hugged both Ruby and Yang.
"We'll explain later. Right now, let's get you inside so you can recover." Ruby answered.
"I'll be there in a moment. Just need to finish something up quick." Yang told them. They nodded before crossing the moat and heading back into the house.
"Now, your turn Yang Xaio Long." The tree told her. Yang looked shaky for a moment but steeled herself before giving her wish.
"I wish I not only had my mother back but also that she is back to the way she was." Yang told the tree which glowed a bit.
"It is done. Now for the warning. Your mother is back to how she truly is. Not corrupted. I have also erased all the crimes she has done so neither of you have to worry about that. However, while she is back now and no longer corrupted, it does not mean she can fall wand walk down that path again. It is your job to be by her side and make sure she doesn't." The tree warned.
"I will." Yang said holding back her tears. At that moment, her scroll rang which revealed it to be her mother calling. "I got to take this."
"Now is your turn, Blake Belladonna." The tree told her.
"I want the White Fang to be how they were before today. I wish for them to be no longer corrupt. But I also want faunus equality as well." Blake told the tree.
"And what of Adam Tarus?" The tree asked. Blake took in a deep breath before answering.
"As much as it pains me, I want him gone from life so he could never corrupt the White Fang or hurt others again." She answered. The tree glowed again before speaking.
"It is done. Faunus and humans now live together peacefully. Now, the warning. While Adam is no longer there and they are now back to how they were, they can still fall and become corrupted again. It is now your duty to make sure they don't. But you won't go alone, I have made your father, the leader of the White Fang." The tree warned her.
"I will." Blake answered before moving to head to the house.
"Now your turn Weiss Schnee." The tree told her.
"I wish my grandfather back and that he was the head of the SDC and that my father Jacques Schnee was no longer in charge." She told the tree which glowed again.
"It is done. Your grandfather is back and in charge. However, your father will try to gain power back. If you want to keep it how it is with your grandfather in charge, make sure your father doesn't get the chance to." The tree warned her.
"I will. Thank you. Excuse me, I have to take this." Weiss said as she answered her scroll and headed back to the house.
"Now, your turn Storm Goddess." The tree told Iris.
"Yes, um, can I whisper it to you?" Iris asked.
"You may." The tree answered. Iris then leaned in and whispered it to him. "It is done."
"Is there a warning?" Iris asked cautiously.
"There is none for your wish. As long as you keep the path you are on, you will have the life you want.: The tree answered.
"Thank you." Iris said before stepping to the side.
"Jaune. I know of your wish. And I must say, I am impressed as even when you have the ability to have anything you want, you still would use it for your friends before you would even think about yourself." The tree told me.
"Can you, do it?" I asked.
"Yes, it is done." He answered after glowing extremely brightly.
"Thank you." I told the tree happy.
"You are welcome. Now, comes the sad part." The tree said making me worried.
"What do you mean?" Iris asked.
"Like I said earlier, if word gets out about me, many people will come to try and take me for themselves. And while I don't have to grant their wishes, I do not want to bring any harm to any of you. That is why I am asking for you to cut me down." The tree answered.
"No, I will not. There has to be some other way." I told the tree. Tears starting to try and break free.
"If there is a way to make sure none of you are hurt and makes sure no one else will know of me, I will let you take that option." The tree offered.
"Okay, I will think of something. Maybe..." I began trying to desperately to think of a way to keep the tree alive. But I could not come up with something.
"Jaune. Calm down. I have an idea." Iris said placing her hand on my shoulder.
"What is it?" I asked her.
"I can take the tree to my domain in the heavens. No other gods can enter my domain without my permission. And since only aside from us, no one else knows of this tree. He will be safe there." Iris answered.
"That will work. I will allow that." The tree said after a moment.
"Thank you, Iris." I told her while leaning in to give her a peck on the cheek.
"Anything for you Jaune. But I have to know, what did you wish for?" She asked. I smiled and wondered her Penny is reacting now.
Somewhere in Atlas
"Are you ready Penny?" A mand know as Pietro Polendina asked his daughter.
"Ready father." Penny answered.
"Let us begin routine scans." General Ironwoods announced walking to the console.
"Wait something is wrong." A random Atlas technician yelled out.
"What happened?" Ironwoods asked.
"I have lost all contact with Penny's systems. I'm getting no response." The technician answered.
"Same here." Another yelled out followed by the rest of the technicians in the room.
"Have you tried rebooting it?" Winter asked stepping forward.
"I tried but I'm getting nothing. No response at all. It's like she just vanished but she is still here." The technician answered.
"Maybe-" Ironwoods began but was cut off by another technician.
"Sir, I'm reading a massive rise in Penny's aura." This technician yelled out.
"How can that be?" Pietro asked beginning to worry for his daughter. Even though she was a robot, he still saw her as his true daughter and family.
"Maybe it's-" Winter began but was cut off by Penny.
"Father, I don't feel so well." Penny said before falling to the ground.
"PENNY!" Pietro yelled out and was about to rush to Penny but stopped when he got blinded by a bright light that surrounded Penny.
"What's happening?" Ironwoods asked shielding his eyes from the light. After a few seconds, the light died down. But once it did, they Penny was on her knees panting heavily.
"Penny! Are you okay?" Pietro asked running to her and pulling her into a hug to check to see if she was okay.
"Father?" Penny asked weakly.
"Yes, Penny I'm here. How are you-huh?" Pietro began but then grew confused when he grabbed his daughters' hand and instead of feeling the cold metal. He felt actual skin.
"Sir!" The same technician from before called out getting everyone's attention.
"What is it?" Ironwoods asked.
"I am not sure but I am getting a heartbeat reading. And it's coming from Penny." The technician answered.
"Sir. I am getting brainwaves coming from Penny as well as a blood pressure reading." Another one announced.
"Father?" Penny asked getting his attention.
"Yes, Penny?" He answered looking into her eyes.
"What is this warmth and beating that is emanating from me and you?" She asked confused. It was at this moment that Pietro knew that his biggest wish came true.
"I can't believe it Penny. You are a real girl now. Your human." Pietro said pulling Penny into a hug.
"Am I still your daughter?" Penny asked with tears now coming out of her eyes.
"Yes, you are. You always were and always will be my daughter." Pietro answered pulling his daughter into another hug.
"I hate to break this moment up. But what if you just said is true, we need to run some tests to make sure she is actually okay and what could have caused her to turn human." Ironwoods said walking up to the father and daughter.
"General. How about we give them some much needed space for now? I just saw the initial readings for Penny and she seems healthy. We can always do the tests later." Winter told the general who just glared before nodding and leaving room.
"Take you time you two. We will come back later to do the tests. For now, just enjoy your time together." Winter told the father and daughter. But as she left, she smiled as she knew that what caused Penny to become human was because of Jaune.
Note:
There we go. Penny is now human and will live the life she deserves.
(1) King of Flan with Terra, Adrian and Saphron. (2) Little Muriel with Ruby. (3) Windmill Vandals with Ruby and Pyrrha. (4) Bad Hair Day with Yang. (5) Hot head with Yang. (6) The Fog of Courage with Iris. (7) Record Deal with Weiss. (8) Serpent of the Evil River with Weiss and Blake. (9) Courage vs. Mech-Courage with Team Rwby.
I did see the new Courage the cowardly dog crossover with Scooby Doo. I will most likely finish this story by the time it comes out. But even then, I will most likely make it a separate story to this but still follow this story as well.