Here it is the third part to this story, also a question at the end.
Chapter 32: Jaune Belladonna Arc 2
Concept: Kali and Ghira adopts Jaune.
Appearance: None
-3 Years Later August 23th-
"Don't hold back son!" Launching towards Ghira Jaune struck forward at his father but Ghira didn't dodge it instead he struck forward breaking through Jaune's defenses and launching him away. Jaune got up despite the blow and once more rushed forward, Ghira struck once more. However, Jaune ducked down below his father's fist and stuck up at his arm hitting his elbow and forcing his arm up.
Jaune leaped forward and stuck his dad's face, Ghira quickly hugged his son and tightened his grip forcing Jaune to let out his breath. Ghira quickly pinned his son to the floor before letting out a tired breath.
"That's enough for now." Ghira lifted himself from the boy nodding in acknowledgement.
"You've gotten better, but not good enough to start using a sword." Jaune slumped but then felt his father place a hand on his shoulder.
"However, if your hand to hand continues to improve at this rate in about half a year I will consider it." Ghira saw how his son's eyes lit up at the words. He understood why, Jaune loved them but ultimately, he wanted to know about his birth parents. To which Ghira and Kali were more than happy to tell him about making their son ecstatic and seeming to further inspire him to become a huntsman despite neglecting to tell him their ends. However, what drew Jaune's attention most was the Arc's family sword, Crocea Mors or Yellow Death. Jaune had pleaded to be taught how to use it, something neither he or Kali knew how to do.
So Ghira decided one of their guards would teach him however, the man insisted the boy learn how to fight hand to hand first. Claiming that once he started using a sword he'd neglect his CQC if he didn't have at least the basics down to which Ghira agreed. As the two made there way to the house Ghira checked around the city making sure everything was in order. As they walked around Jaune looked to his father.
"Dad is everything okay?" Ghira looked to his son and sighed.
Dammit it couldn't hurt for you to be a little less keen on these things.
"We'll talk about it later tonight, so how are you feeling about your birthday? Soon you'll be twelve." Jaune smiled.
"I'm excited but also kind of nervous."
"Nervous?"
"Yeah, after all that means I only have five years left before I apply to go to Beacon." Ghira smiled.
"I see well then I suppose you have your work cut out for you." Jaune let out a tired sigh, before his dad suddenly put his hand over his shoulder.
"Come now, your far too young to start acting like an old man and besides at your rate of growth I'm confident you'll be more then able to stand your ground." Jaune smiled at his father who did the same. Ghira would hate to see his son leave but he knew was set on this path and he was proud. Jaune wanted to be a huntsman who would protect the innocent regardless of peerage or race. Wasn't that the ideals of the equality he and his wife strived for.
"But until then!" Ghira quickly grabbed the boy putting him on his shoulders.
"You'll be expected to keep up with your studies." Jaune groaned at that.
"Come on I'll just get sis to tell me." Ghira eyed his boy.
"Jaune once you leave for Vale Blake won't be there to explain every little thing you don't get."
"Okay… I'll study hard I promise."
"Good now let's get going."
-Belladonna House-
Upon entering the two were met by Kali who smiled back at them.
"Lunch is ready you two come on." Ghira and Jaune nodded at that heading to the dining room.
"Where's sis?" Kali's expression dampened.
"'sigh' With Adam."
"Oh…" Jaune notably grimaced at that thought, since the incident three years ago Blake had gotten rather close to their guard which Jaune wouldn't mind. If it were just about anyone else, 'Anyone Else' There was just something about the man that stirred Jaune the wrong way. It wasn't just the way bull boy glared at him but also how he… spoke it was never Jaune but human or Arc instead of Belladonna. Blake may call him passionate about their cause but Jaune didn't know he felt what Adam believed in was different, worse.
However, he knew Blake would never hear of it, after all her and him were almost inseparable now something Jaune sadly envied. He knew Blake didn't hate him or anything but slowly she was distancing herself from him not that he could blame her. After all he couldn't join in the protest with him being an Arc, if the higher ups in Mistral saw him on TV they could try to abduct him or worse accuse their parents of doing so. However, because she went Adam went of course leaving his 11-year-old sister with a 17-year-old man body guard.
"I wish I could go with them." Kali looked to her son and understood, placing a reassuring hand on his shoulder she smiled.
"Come now let's eat." Kali wasn't to fond of the boy either especially how he looked at Jaune, almost like a pest. Which of course enraged her, how dare he. Then there were the things he'd say when he thought they were out of earshot she heard and so did her husband. Which is why the forbid him from setting foot in their house ironic when you considered he was Blake and Jaune's bodyguard, but she digresses.
After a full meal Kali brought Jaune to the living room to study, despite his insistence that Blake was the smart one he was quite sharp himself. She was a bit apprehensive to let him become a Huntsman however, when he told her his goal there was a fire in his eye just like her husband. Even if they weren't related by blood she'd swear along the time he spent with Ghira their boy had inherited his passion. How could she refuse him when he was so driven.
-Four Hours Later-
"I'm back." Blake entered the room, turning Jaune smiled at his sis while she gave a light wave back before noticing the books below.
The noble Ninja Bryce and Princess Knight Joan volume 4 the Mistralian rebellion?
"You still read those?" Jaune eyes deadpanned.
"Give me a break I just finished study and taking a break, and you know even if these are for kids their still pretty thick." Blake let out a small laugh before plopping down on the couch by Jaune.
"I suppose… so how'd training go." Jaune smiled before raising a thumb up.
"Dad says I'll be ready to use Crocea Mors in half a year."
"Really?" Jaune gave a toothy grin.
"Yep." Blake leaned against the couch.
"Must be nice having aura." Jaune sighed knowing what she was getting at, she knew he would.
"Dad was clear he would unlock it when you became 13." Blake shrugged showing a bit of annoyance. She already knew that, and she even understood that Jaune's was a special case. However, before she could voice any of her discontent a hand was placed on her shoulder, looking up she saw her brother's smiling face.
"I already told you though I'll unlock it on your birthday next month. Even if dad gets a bit upset I'm sure things will be okay" Blake felt her heart tighten at that.
"Yeah… next month…" Jaune looked to her concerned.
"Is everything okay?" Blake realizing her mistake quickly recomposed herself before asking.
"'ahem' Is there anyway you could… do it sooner? Like maybe tonight." Jaune put on a stiff smile while rubbing the back of his head.
"Come on sis, I can't give you your birthday present early."
"Please… I want it to be you though."
"And it will be, I promise okay." Blake's cat ears folded.
No it won't not if you don't tonight.
Blake leaned against Jaune pleasantly surprising him.
I wonder if he thinks I hate him? But if I don't distance myself I won't be able to bare it.
Blake loved her family especially her brother though she'd never say it flat out. However, they weren't at the protest, she knew Jaune had his reasons and with his training her parents had to give him much needed attention leaving her with Sienna and Adam. Even so they had become distant from their people's problems.
by reflex she relaxed as her head nuzzled against her brother's chest, his heartbeat calming her and warmth making her sleepy. Slowly she began to purr before she fell asleep, it had been a habit of hers since they were baby's. For some reason she just felt at ease with Jaune, something she couldn't even claim with her boyfriend Adam. Though she'd never openly call him as such, she knew how'd they'd react especially Jaune, he would attack Adam without doubt thinking he coerced his little sister.
Knowing that made her happy, Jaune was her only real friend and she trusted him and cherished him dearly. In fact, the only thing she and Adam would ever fight over was Jaune, Adam insisting she stay on guard around him. Implying he was only using her family which utterly aggravated her. Jaune was her noble knight elder brother, even for her Samurai of justice she wouldn't allow him to say such things. Slowly sleep took her and she felt him pat her head tell she was completely taken.
I truly hope Sienna was lying.
-One Hour Later-
As the four sat for dinner Blake and Jaune could see their father avoiding her gaze, however finally he seemed to decide on something and looked to the two of them.
"Kids I have something to tell you."
"What's up dad?"
"'Ahem' As you know, I've unfortunately have neglected my duties as the high leader of the White Fang." Blake froze at the words.
"While that is partially due to Jaune's training there are various other reasons."
"Like what." Ghira sighed as he readied himself.
"Currently rumors have spread that the White Fang have been going through a reform of sorts… and have become somewhat… violent." Jaune looked to the man confused While Blake looked down.
"I regret to say they are not entirely false." Jaune was the first to respond slamming his hands on the table.
"That can't be true! You would never allow such things." Ghira gave a weak smile to his son.
"Unfortunately, my position as high leader is under question right now." Blake trembled while Jaune went wide-eyed.
"What! Why?" Ghira rose a hand to the boy.
"Jaune calm down. I understand this has to shock you, but I'll explain." Reluctantly Jaune sat down once more looking to his father practically pleading for an explanation.
"Due to my absence the White Fang has separated into two factions though I believe this would occur regardless of that after the massacre in Vale three years ago. And while a good number of our brothers and sisters still follow me, a notable amount has seemingly leaned towards sister Sienna's side." Jaune looked completely shocked at that, after all he knew Sienna she was like a pseudo big sister to him.
"She believes in raising the faunus people's standing through fear." Jaune looked as if he'd been dealt a lethal blow.
"No way… Big sis Sienna? That can't be right… It just can't." Blake's fist shook as her brother looked as if a part of his heart had shattered. Despite his son's reaction he chose to continue.
"I have no wish to be part of a civil war within our group and as such I have decided to step down as High Leader alongside those of our Brothers and Sisters who would follow." Jaune looked to his father surprised at the words but understanding, Dad didn't want the faunus people to fight one another. Not because he was scared but because there was no way he could fight and possibly kill his own.
"Kali has decided to join me as has Tuscon in Vale…" Ghira looked to his children.
"I will not order you to do the same… You are plenty old enough to understand the situation and come to your own decision. However, I would hope you two could see the necessity in this." Blake was the first to respond shooting up from her seat and staring straight into her father's eyes.
"Why…"
"Blake?"
"Why would you just run away from the White Fang! Our people! Our cause! All because of some stupid rumors!" Jaune looked too his sister shocked but understanding where she was coming from even if he didn't agree.
"Blake the White Fang isn't the group that I made anymore… they don't want peace I fear."
"You fear…heh… hehehe… You Coward! Don't just act like you know everything! I've been out there! I've seen how we're treated! Those Rumors are no more than us defending ourselves, so another massacre doesn't occur!" Ghira reached for his daughter but she backed away her eyes sorrowful and defiant.
"I need some space, to think and make the 'Right' decision… Jaune come on." Blake grabbed her brothers hand but when she pulled she felt him resist.
"…Jaune?" Looking down she saw her brother looking back to her, his face confused and concerned.
"J-Jaune, come on… we need t-"
"I need some time Blake… You've clearly made your choice… I need to make mine." Blake looked to her brother and felt a slight pain at those words, slowly she let go and ran outside. Jaune sat there looking and wanting to follow but knowing it would only steer her away from him. Jaune looked to his parents.
"Is it okay if I hold off on answering till tomorrow."
"Of course son."
"Take as much time as you need dear."
-Kuo Kuana Port-
Slowly Blake made her way to the boat port seeing Adam and others of her brothers and sisters packed and ready to go. Adam walked to her hugging her.
"It's okay my love." Blake cried into his arms.
"You were right they really did leave the Fang!" Adam had told her of Sienna's ascension to High Leader, she didn't want to believe him. Believe they abandoned the White Fang but he was right. He told her when she was ready they'd leave so she had decided to wait tell they told her.
"Let's leave here." Blake begun to nod before she remembered Jaune.
"Wait." Adam tilted his head.
"What is it?"
"My brother Jaune still hasn't decided whether to leave the White Fang or not." Adam grunted in dissatisfaction.
"The human. My love can't you see it's because of hi-"
"Don't!" Blake glared at her boyfriend, she was not hearing this again.
"Until Jaune gives his answer I refuse to leave." Adam looked into her eyes. So full of determination and will for a human, it sickened him that she had been so polluted by that parasite. through gritted teeth he spoke.
"Fine, however." Adam turned away from her.
"We'll only wait till tomorrow night at midnight, no later. Understood?" Blake smiled and nodded, Adam then looked to her deciding to ask a different question.
"Blake now that you decided to go down this path, the right path you need strength." Adam put a hand out to her.
"Let me awaken your aura." He saw the hesitation in her eyes and it hurt him… no it Enraged him. How far had that mongrel influenced his love.
"N-no, I can't… I'll awaken it tomorrow." Adam noted that she hadn't said he would unlock it. He clenched his fist but put on the most calming demeanor he could manage.
"Very well. Tomorrow Blake remember." Blake looked down to the ground.
"Yes… tomorrow." She turned away from him returning home, hoping her brother would choose the right path… Choose her.
-Belladonna House August 24th-
Jaune sat at the table with his family glad that his sister had seemingly sorted things out for herself. Honestly, he was worried about it last night but after seeing her in the morning his heart had calmed.
"So Jaune are you prepared to train today? Don't think I'll go easy just because it's your birthday" Jaune nodded.
"Can I come?" both males were surprised turning to Blake.
"S-sure dear. I mean 'ahem' If Jaune doesn't mind." Jaune merely smiled to his father.
"Of course not, it'd make me happy actually." After a finishing breakfast the three made their way to were Jaune and Ghira usually trained. After reaching the area Jaune the two didn't waste a second beginning their sparring. Blake was surprised to see Jaune actually fight against her father, Ghira despite his kinder disposition was powerful and the fact her 12-year-old brother could match him was nothing short of amazing. Sure, their dad was holding back but still, as she watched her brother she noted the cold focus his eyes gained, he didn't show any fear and instead made an effort to plunge forward as if eager to attack.
Is this really Jaune.
Blake remembered all the times they played how much of a goofball her big brother was. Even when he had saved her and Sienna three years ago he had only done so by running. But watching him here, now it was obvious he had grown. After his aura was in the red Jaune surrendered once more he hadn't manage to get a single hit in on his father, yesterday had to be a fluke.
"Good job son."
"'pant, pant' What do you mean good job… I couldn't even land a hit on you this time." Ghira chuckled to himself.
"Why that may be true you lasted longer than any other time before. Your pacing and stamina is improving rapidly as well I see." Blake looked to her scroll and was surprised to see an entire two hours had passed. Jaune finally got up and dusted himself off. Turning to Blake he smiled.
"So did you learn anything sis?" Blake couldn't help but smile.
"Yeah… don't get hit." Jaune groaned at the snarky remark but his smile never broke.
"Yeah, yeah make fun of the birthday boy." As the three turned around an incredible scent caught Blake's nose turning she saw a stall with fresh kabobs. On them was grilled shrimp, calm, cuts of fish and more at the sight her mouth begun to drool. Jaune tracked her sight and smiled once he figured out.
"Hey dad since it's my birthday can we have some of that food over there today." Looking to where his son was pointing Ghira gulped upon seeing the delicious treat as well.
"I-I don't see why not." Ghira made way to the stall ordering four kabobs knowing his wife would want one too. Before Jaune could even try his own he looked and saw that Blake had already managed to somehow devour her own. Her eyes now focused fully on his.
"'sigh' want mine?" Presenting his own to her Blake readily accepted it this time taking her time to enjoy it slowly nibbling it, Jaune couldn't help but smile as he watched her.
"What?"
"Nothing just remembering what a cute little sister I have." Blake's ears folded down in embarrassment at his comment. Blake then looked down at the treat before looking up to her father was nibbling one the treat much the same as her.
I'll never get to do things like this with dad, again will I?
Blake shook her head, remembering why she stayed today and turned to her brother.
"What's wrong?"
"…Jaune have you thought about what dad talked about yesterday?" Jaune's expression grew a bit stiff at her words before he looked off to the sky.
"Yeah… actually I wanted to talk with you about that." Blake's face brightened at that, if he wanted to talk to her it had to at least mean he was considering taking her side, right?
"Okay!" Jaune was taken aback her sudden enthusiasm but ultimately understood she was just excited. When opening the door to their house the first thing to happen was Kali leaping into her husbands to grab the last kabob. After a few minutes she noticed her kids and blushed a bit embarrassed. Jaune made his way to the living room to study and was surprised when instead of books there was a cake decoration and a stack of Chicken nuggets as tall as himself.
"Happy birthday dear!" Kali hugged the boy from behind rubbing her cheek against his.
"Is this really for me?"
"Do you like it son, originally you weren't supposed to train today but I needed to give Kali time to prepare all that chicken." Ghira plucked a nugget popping it into his mouth almost immediately Jaune followed smiling at the taste.
"Moms are way better than any stall."
"Heheh well of course." the four sat in the living room enjoying each other's company talking about the village and some of the current problems.
"Um, dad?"
"Yes Jaune."
"Can you tell me more about my parents?" Both Ghira and Kali flinched at the question, their reaction peaking their daughter's interest. Which made sense after all she and Jaune knew about his family was what was in books about the Arcs. Jaune knew he was adopted and that his birth parents were gone but not much more sense most of their parents knowledge stream from history.
"'sigh' I do suppose your old enough." Ghira's gaze focused on his azure of his son's eyes.
"Jaune, one day when me and your mother were heading back here from Mistral, Kali heard a babies cries."
"The others didn't hear it but I was sure, So I went to the noise… When I did I found a woman with long golden hair."
"Was that my…"
"Yes, she was your mother, he later learned her name was Aria Arc. However, when Kali found her, she had sadly already passed."
"Oh…" Jaune looked down his expression solemn and down trotted. Blake took her big brother's hand in both of hers squeezing tightly trying to let him know he wasn't alone. Jaune smiled at her trying to help.
"However, despite the fact she had passed she had performed her job as a mother quite dutifully, even after passing in her arms she held a small bundle." Jaune looked to his mom listening intently.
"That was me?" Kali nodded and stepped up to move beside her adopted child and hug him while Ghira focused on Jaune.
"Your father was drawing the Grimm to himself, we theorize it was to give you two a way out." Jaune was both happy and proud to hear that but also saddened. Ghira reached into his coat pulling out a small locket and handing it to the young boy. After taking it Jaune opened it to see a small picture with a very kind looking woman and powerful man alongside seven golden-haired children and a small baby in the woman's arms. Jaune could only look at the picture.
Are these my parents…
A teardrop hit the picture soon followed by another, Jaune rose his free hand to his face pulling back to see his palm wet.
"Why am I crying? 'hic' I didn't even know them. So why?" Ghira looked to the trembling boy before him his daughter and wife comforted the young Arc. As he watched the boy cry for people who were all but strangers to him he smiled proudly. To be reduced to tears for people he didn't even know, most would call such a thing weakness but not him he knew better. The boy had a kind heart and a sweet disposition it was precisely because he was this way that he had distracted those racist back then and why he stride to be a huntsman now.
"There's no shame in tears for the fallen strangers of friends, human or faunus." Jaune looked to Ghira trying to stop the act was cute. Kali embraced the boy letting him hear her heartbeat and stroked his cheek.
"Your father was a brave man and to your mother's last breath she protected you Jaune, she had a content smile on her face as she held you the same smile your father had when we found him. You were loved and still are." Ghira rose from his seat leaving the room, when he returned he had a sword and sheath. Slowly he made way to his son and lowered himself to level with the boy.
"This is the blade your father held."
Jaune looked to the sheathed sword as did Blake.
"This sword is a heirloom of the Arc family. Many collectors would kill for it. Its historic significant alone however to my people and anyone in the Arc family this sword means so much more." Jaune looked down to it.
"This Sword represents the will to fight against oppression, and the many injustices of the world. I remember when I was little more than a child and forced to Menagerie alongside my mother and father. There were humans surrounding us making sure we couldn't leave. We knew our people were fighting but we had no way to help while we were surrounded caged on menagerie like animals. They had war cruisers while we had nothing more than sticks. I remembered hating the humans, that hate festered and grew. But then suddenly the boats were falling one by on. I remember rallying whoever would hear me and we waited to great our brothers in arms, Imagine my surprise when I was met by a human armed with little more than a sword and shield behind was a small army of my people."
Ghira chuckled at the memory especially how he tried to hit the man only to be met by a very young and angry Kali. Speaking honestly if someone had told him he was going to marry the girl who had beat him black and blue their first meeting he'd had call them a Schnee's uncle.
"That man was the only human among the faunus people at the beginning of the war even near the end the number of humans who fought alongside us were so few." Ghira looked down to Jaune smiling.
"This is the sword that fought alongside my people and the reason I formed the White Fang." Not only Jaune but even his daughter was staring at the sword.
"It was never my right to hold this blade and while your still inexperienced I believe it's only right to give you this blade now." Jaune slowly took the sword in his trembling hands, the boy seemed utterly shocked at how heavy the bastard sword ended up being. Slowly he stood and begun to unsheathe it the blade was aged and worn, however it looked far from brittle. Ghira was glad he had maintained it because it shined with a fierce radiance.
"That blade is named Crocea Mors." Ghira stood and tapped the sheath making it transform surprising Jaune and making Blake jump.
"And that is the twin crescent moons, your family's emblem." Jaune looked to the shield then to the locket before he looked back to Ghira.
"But they're not my only family." Jaune looked up to his father and grabbed his arm leading him to sit alongside his daughter and wife before plopping down on his lap grabbing his scroll out raising it in the air.
"Smile!" While Kali complied both Ghira and Blake we're slow on the uptake not realizing what was happening till after the scroll flashed.
"There!" Jaune let out a toothy grin,
"Now I can put this in the other side of the locket, so I have a picture of both my families." Ghira smiled at that while Blake slowly stood up and made way to the couch looking away from her parents and brother her fist clenched.
Family…
Suddenly Blake felt a hand touch the top of her head and begun to scratch her ears earning a purr out of her. Turning she saw her brother with a calm but concerned expression.
"I know somethings wrong. Please talk to me if not, then at least let me do this much." She wanted to resist but when she considered what she would ask later…
"We have to talk later."
"Yeah we will but for now let's just relax." Blake knew she was about to destroy their peaceful life, she knew what she was about to ask. The idea of what he would say honestly scared her to her core, that's why for now, even if it was for just a little longer. She wanted this, wanted her big brother to spoil her a little and make her believe everything would be okay.
She rested against her brother her face completely content.
-11:00 PM-
Blake woke up at the sound of her scroll alerting her of a new message, the room was dark, and she was covered in a blanket. looking down she saw the message was from Adam she saw the time and her heart ached but none the less she resolved herself.
Jaune.
Blake looked around for her brother not being able to find him she slowly sneaked to his room determined to not wake her parents. If she saw them she might not be able to go through with it. When she opened his room, she found it to be empty curiously she walked through it. Usually she'd respect her big brother's privacy, but she couldn't help it, after all this may very well be the last time she'd see his room or this house ever again. Spotting something under his bed her curiosity got the better of her and she grabbed it.
For my little sister 😊
It was a present while not too big it certainly wasn't small. Before she could open it she heard the sound of air cutting. She peeked outside from the window and saw Jaune.
There he is.
Nervously she made her way out his room into her own grabbing her knapsack she stuffed the present inside and nervously made way outside to her brother. As she stepped into the cool night air she saw her brother breathing heavily before taking a deep breath and examining Crocea Mors. She saw a look in his eye she'd only ever seen in Adam's a resolve and determination that couldn't be opposed.
However, there was no violence in his eyes in fact they almost seemed protective as if he would shoulder the world. She remembered the massacre, her brother risking everything for her and now she'd ask him to abandon everything he'd known, for her.
I'm your brother.
That's right Jaune wouldn't abandon me.
She took a deep breath before she stepped out to her brother, seeing her Jaune smiled nervously rubbing the back of his head with one hand while trying to hide Crocea Mors with the other.
"It's not what you think I swear!"
"Jaune…" As soon as he saw his sister's cautious expression he switched from the lovable oaf to her reliable brother. Slowly he made way to her patting her head.
"What's wrong Blake?" Blake looked up into her brother's eyes which almost seemed to radiate understanding and sympathy.
"I-I, no we need to talk about what dad said." Jaune's expression once more stiffened at that.
"I see…" Her brother's eyes focused on her and she knew whatever his answer was not she or anyone else would sway his decision.
"Before I tell you my decision first let's hear yours." Blake looked to her brother worry evident, but slightly calmed as she looked to his calm face that showed no distrust or anger only a concern.
"My answer…"
"Yes, but not just which side you choose but also why. Regardless of your choice I want to understand the reason behind it."
This is it.
Slowly Blake took a deep breath before looking to her older brother, her mind set on doing exactly what he asked and explaining.
"As long as I can remember we've been in the White Fang, I've always fought for equality, I want a world where faunus are treated equal… I never forgot all those time I was called an animal at the protest. I never forgot the faces of those from the dust mine or 'that' day when we learned just how strong hate is…" She could see how he wanted to hold her and reassure her but resisted wanting her to finish.
"That why, that's why I can't run away from their cause. From 'Our' cause! Jaune I-I'm leaving Menagerie…" She could hear her brothers audible freeze at that.
"I'm going with Adam, With the White Fang to keep fighting against the injustices of my people. Against the hate humans breed!" Blake inched forward her body trembling as she clenched the bottom of his shirt not daring to look up.
"So please… Please come with me, I need you, I need my family to be with me. I'm scared but resolved." Instead of answering her with words he embraced her holding his sister tightly.
"Thankyo-"
"I'm sorry Blake…"
What?
Slowly she felt her brother let her go, before he looked her in the eye. His eyes filled with guilt, self-loathing but most importantly resolve.
"I-I can't go and neither should you." She looked to her brother's face and felt her heart break.
"Blake… what they want isn't equality its fear, that's why mom and dad are leaving." Blake looked to Jaune her mind trying to understand.
"The White Fang they made, that I believe in isn't the one Sienna wants. Blake! The fact that you think only humans breed hate proves that you're on the wrong side!"
Your wrong!
No matter how many times her heart refused his argument she couldn't bring herself to oppose his words.
"You Do! Don't you Remember what they did to us! Did to you!" Blake roared with all her heart could manage.
This isn't what I wanted! He was supposed to come with me!
"But Blake, have you forgotten." Jaune looked to her hurt in his eyes.
"I'm human." Blake looked to her brother and saw the hurt in his eyes she was speechless, had she really forgotten? As she looked in his eyes the kind eyes that had always shown her nothing but love. She now saw the eyes of those who had opposed her people. And those who attacked her people during the parade.
"Blake, please don't…" As Jaune looked to his sister he saw something in her eyes he'd never seen directed at him before, fear. He reached out a hand to try to pat her head like he had done so many times before, but to his surprise it was slapped away. Her face distorted by betrayal and… anger all directed at him.
"No…" Blake backed away from him.
Adam was right!
"NO!" Before he could act his sister turned and ran. Without hesitation Jaune tried to follow but found himself falling behind, he was tired and weaken from training with dad and then Crocea Mors.
No, no, no!
"Blake!" Jaune screamed out for his sister hoping she would stop.
"Please Blake!" Begging she would look at him with the same care as before. Just as he finally stopped he realized where they were. The port of Kuo Kuana, he saw his sister on it with men in mask shaped like that of Grimm.
"Blake! Bla-Ugh!" Jaune was suddenly struck in the stomach by the butt of a sword. Falling to his knees he saw Adam looking down on him in anger.
"Don't say her name human!" Adam slammed the sheathed sword into the side of his face launching Jaune away into the wall of a building. Seeing that Blake went wide eyed and tried to leave only to be stopped by her White Fang brothers and sisters.
"What are you doing! Let me go!"
"Sister Blake you mustn't, weren't you resolved to fight alongside us." Blake stopped.
"Then watch brother Adam he won't kill your former brother."
"Former!?" The man turned to her.
"He wants to take you away from our cause would you abandon what you believe for him for a Human!"
"Blake!" Jaune struggled up ignoring the glare Adam sent him.
"Come home please! With mom and dad and me!" Blake looked to Jaune.
"Sister… you know what we're doing is just. Don't let your attachment to your family stop you from saving our people. Please we must all make sacrifices." Blake looked to the rather large faunus barely paying attention to his chainsaw sword. She looked back to her broth- no to Jaune Arc even from this distant she managed to keep eye contact.
I'm sorry.
"Bye." She broke his gaze, seeing that Jaune felt a weight to his soul.
No, I can't let her
Adam looked to see his love finally be broken from this human's manipulation, he looked to Jaune and smiled broadly.
"See that human, She won't be fooled by you any more now leave."
I'm gonna be a huntsman to protect everyone. But most importantly to protect my family
"To, protect my family." Adam watched as the boy rose and sneered. He charged at the boy slamming the butt of the sword into his stomach again but to his surprise Jaune didn't fall. Instead the Arc grabbed his wrist and glared at Adam.
"I won't let you…" Jaune rose a fist slamming into the older mans face with a surprising amount of strength that made Adam stumble back. Blake watched as Jaune gripped Crocea Mors in both hands.
"I won't let anyone take anymore of my family away!" Adam looked as the boy's aura flared despite his small stature, that weathered blade and his obvious lack of experience Adam felt the slightest hint of danger.
"I'm taking Blake back home. That's a promise!" Blake felt a pang in her heart at the words. Adam sneered once more.
"Very well, I had intended to spar you any shame on behalf of my love. But now." Adam took a stance holding Wilt and Blush. Blake's eyes widened and the girl didn't care anymore as she tried to run to the two, only to be stopped by the large fang member beside her.
No!
"Jaune Just Leave Me! You're Not Even My Real Family!" Jaune smiled to her that same grin he always had used to try and calm her.
"Even if you think that I don't after all you're the only sister I've known." Jaune rushed for Adam.
This Sword represents the will to fight against oppression, and the many injustices of the world.
With this Blade I'll bring back Blake, like a true huntsman!
"I won't let you take her!"
"Jaune! No!"
"Hmm." Adam slashed forwards against Jaune shattering Crocea Mors and cutting into Jaune's body destroying most of what remained of his aura and creating a huge cut in his body.
What?
Jaune hit the floor before he could do anything a foot slammed on top his head and Wilt into his back finally destroying his aura.
"I will only say this once more give up human. You can't stop my love from choosing the right path." Jaune glared up at Adam.
"I won't… let you…" Adam raged and stomped the boy's head. Despite the pain and shame, the tears running down his face and his shattered heirloom Jaune struggled to stay awake his glare keen on Adam. Finally letting her go Blake rushed forth grabbing Adam from behind.
"Stop Adam! Please stop! Stop!" Adam finally relenting took his foot off the boy but never letting him out his sight.
Blake!
Blake watched as Jaune struggled to lift himself but couldn't manage it his eyes weren't on Adam nor were they filled with rage. But instead all he could see was his sister, his sister he had to protect, the sister he promised to protect.
"Bl..Blake…" She could see the desperate pleading in his eyes the pain the sorrow and hope. She begun to kneel but felt a hand grasp her shoulder. She looked up to Adam.
"His injuries aren't fatal, now then my love decide, which is more important, one human or your people."
Blake…
Jaune's hand struggled to reach her but with a hardened heart she retreated from it.
"I'm sorry…"
Blake turned to her brother her amber eyes gazing into his one final time.
"Bye…Arc." She wished she had turned away faster, so she didn't have to see that will in his eye flicker out from her words. Adam looked as the boy finally passed out.
"Finally gave up have you."
-Boat-
Blake stayed in her room with Adam her eyes empty of here usual determination as all she could see was his eyes as Jaune gave up, no as her Brother broke because of her! Cradling her knees, she cried cursing herself.
"My love." Blake looked up to see Adam, she wanted to hate him, but she didn't, it wasn't his fault it happened or even Jaune's for following her, no it was hers. her fault for asking him for involving him.
I'm human.
For seeing him as anything but her brother, for being scared of him even if for only a moment. She had to make sure crushing the person she held most dear wasn't for nothing.
"Adam…" She had to fight for a better world, to show him she was always fighting for a just world.
"Please unlock my aura." Adam didn't hesitate and smiled as his hand laid at the center of her chest. His aura begun to surge forth and envelope her.
"For it is in passing that we achieve immortality." She didn't want to hear his voice. She felt as her soul resonated with his.
"Through this, we become a paragon of virtue and glory to rise above all." Or to see Adam's face. She felt her own aura begun to awaken feeling a deep connection with the man before her.
"Infinite in distance and unbound by death, I release your soul, and by my shoulder, protect thee." Looking to Adam's loving face as he cupped her cheek she could only feel shame instead of the usual love. Adam rose from the bed and made way to the outside looking back to her.
"Tomorrow we train, until then rest." The man left a smile on his face happy his love was finally free from that human.
Blake sat their tears running down her face as she trembled. Her knapsack fell over from it the present fell, she looked at it for a few minutes before she finally resolved herself. Slowly she reached out to it a slowly unwrapped the black ribbon tying it close to look inside she saw a familiar book inside along with a carefully made dagger and note, slowly she opened the note and read it.
To: My lil sis
From: Your Big Brother
If your reading this we probably just finished sparring after unlocking your aura and your angry I kicked your but eight ways to Wednesday. Also, if your reading this it means I snuck this in your room successfully hooray! your pouting because you were no good. Trust me I felt the same way but don't feel discouraged, after all nobody starts awesome at CQC. And I decided to help you out.
See the dull dagger well that's for training tonight head outside and we can practice okay 😊 But we have to be quiet since we don't want dad to figure out okay.
P.S. Also Do you remember that book, it's the one you wanted. Sorry I would've given you it earlier but… I know you've been having nightmares about 'that day' so I thought it be better to wait till we unlocked your aura and started making you stronger okay… Don't worry sis your big brother always has your back.
Tears fell on the paper as she crumpled it in her hands.
"Jaune…"
At that moment all she wanted was to see her brother one more time.
-August 25th-
"Son! Son!" Jaune eyes opened to find his father and mother above him tears in their eyes.
"Oh thank the gods!" Kali embraced her son, while Ghira thanked whatever god would listen.
Blake…
"B…Blak…" Ghira looked to his men who searched the area before he turned back to Jaune and kneeled beside his injured son.
"Jaune, please tell me where's Blake?" Jaune struggled to look to his father tears filled his eyes.
"I'm… sorry…" Jaune trembled, he had failed, As an Arc as a Belladonna and as a brother!
"I'm sorry!" The two watched as their son apologized till his voice gave out weeping over his failure, the watched as the boy they had only ever seen smile heart collapse over his guilt. Embracing him the three cried with their son never ceasing those two painful words.
The two parents sat in their room, Kali stilled wept at times despite a month passing while Ghira was quiet. Their daughter was gone and according to the doctors Jaune injuries would render wielding a weapon impossible destroying his dream. They wanted to chase after her, to find their daughter but Menagerie needed him, his people needed him and he knew even if she searched he'd never find her.
He remembered Sienna message to them, her actual apology for Jaune's injuries she always did have a soft spot for the blonde. But also her refusal to give them Blake's location, she sent the best doctors to Jaune who did everything in their power to help the young arc he'd walk, talk and act like any other but the heinous scar would never leave him and with it he'd never be able to swing a sword or thrust a spear again.
Though even if he could he doubted the boy would do to well since the sight of a blade made him go white and tremble. He'd failed his family, his wife who was now grieving, his daughter who was out of his reach and his son crippled from his dream. It was as he was about to fall to his knees again that he heard it.
"Ha!"
'Thunk'
Kali's ears lifted as he looked to the window noting as the night lit white outside, slowly the walked towards it to see and what they saw froze them in place.
"HA!"
'Thunk' 'Crack'
Standing there bare chested his aura licking his body was Jaune his fist buried in a tree, when he pulled back it revealed a impression in the bark blooded but there shaped like a fist. His aura licked at his knuckles, healing the torn off flesh as he ignored the pain assuming a proper stance like what his father taught him.
"HA!" His fist rocketed forward slamming into the tree making it shake for a moment, he pulled back again breath heavy and sweating. How many times had he struck it, it didn't matter, what did matter was that he didn't stop. He needed to be stronger.
"Jaune!" Turning he saw his mom rushing to him grabbing up his hand and examining it worryingly.
"Dear Oum you knuckle! How long have you been doing this!" Tears formed in the corner of her eyes at the sight as if the horrible wound across his chest wasn't enough now his knuckles where all disfigured and the skin discolored. Aura might have healed them but even it had limits with repeated trauma.
"Moms its fine." She glared at him.
"No its not!" Gone was the weeping mother in her place a rightfully mad woman.
"You will tell me what you are doing this instant! Or so help me I'll bend you over here and now!" The boy winced at the threat nodding.
"I was training." Ghira rose a brow.
"Training?" Jaune nodded.
"Yeah, after all I can't use a sword anymore if not from my injuries then because…" for a moment his eyes dulled recalling his families heirloom's shattered blade. But he shook his head remembering what really mattered.
"You taught me plenty of hand by hand combat, if I mix in dust I'm sure I can still make it! become a Hunter." Ghira blinked his son hadn't given up however what he said next shocked him further.
"Besides I'll never reach Adam's level with a blade, especially now, but with my fist…" Clenching his fist his aura erupted coating the darkness in pale beautiful white.
"I'll get back Blake…" His gaze was resolve and determined and looking into his azure orbs all either parent could do was tremble, there son had never given up, if he could no longer lift a blade he would raise his fist. And if Blake had been taken he'd merely bring their daughter back because he gave his word he'd save her.
They remembered that night as they looked at him, compared to that boy of eleven Jaunes now stood proud and tall. His body toned and muscled like his father's. He wore a brown jacket Kali had made him styled after some hoodie he had wanted back when he was fifteen. However, the article was different with a yellow furred collar. It was open at the front leaving his chest exposed only the thin fabric of his black compressed shirt blocking the sight of his bare form. He worn a purple sash was tied around his waist over blue jeans he wore dark brown laced boots however at his ankles thick metallic structure hung clamped down just out of sight under his jeans. Jaune smiled to his father his face now coated in golden stubble.
"Well, it looks like this is it, are you sure I'm ready dad?" Ghira chuckled.
"Of course you are, you can hold your own against our guards and even myself despite only having a decade of training. Have some confidence Jaune." The boy nodded smiling sheepishly.
"Yeah, I know guess I'm just nervous is all." Ghira chuckled to himself.
"Trust me Jaunes you have nothing to worry over, you'll be fine, Tuskon's already said that you don't need proper combat schooling to try out for acceptance with their test correct?" He nodded.
"Then I'm sure you'll pass with flying colors."
"thanks dad." Before they could go into another talk though the ships whistle blew signaling their soon departcher. Jaune looked over to the ship before turning back to them.
"Well looks like I'll be leaving soon, I promis-" Before he could finish Kali jump into him wrapping her arms around the boy into a tight hug.
"Promise me you'll be okay! That you'll write us every week and you won't go and forget you parents who love you!" Jaune chuckled hugging his mother back.
"How could I ever forget the people who picked me up off the streets, who raised me like on other own, after all I'm not just a Arc, but a Belladonna too." Kali looked up at him eyes still watering but seeing his smile and tearing eyes she smiled back pulling away and wiping her eyes before showing him a smile.
"Be safe." He nodded
"I promise and a Arc never gores back on his word." Ghira stepped up to him then looking his son in the eyes.
"Do you still intend to find her?" Kali stilled while Jaune's eyes hardened.
"Yes."
"Despite knowing what she might have done."
"Yes."
"and knowing the dangers, what you'll have to face." Again he nodded the same answer he'd given every time he'd tried to dissuade his son.
"I'll bring Blake back no matter what." Ghira sighed knowing there was truly no point in trying to dissuade his son.
"I see…" He then stretched out his hand.
"Then all I can ask is promise me, you'll come back too." He nodded then reaching out and taking his father's palm with his fingerless gloves. Ghira looked down at the hand still slightly disfigured in but with the addition of a large techy white bracer. Jaune's weapon, though Crocea Mors had shattered and his body became unable to wield a blade that hadn't stopped their son from carrying his accentor's heirloom into battle. He let go then and turned away.
Both parents looked to his back and more importantly the emblem that marked the back of his coat, they'd tried to dissuade him multiple times. Telling him that all wearing it would bring is discrimination, hate or fear to him but he always denied them. Claiming he would carry both his families crest on his back. Sown there was the old logo of the White Fang, except for two details, the golden hue of the head and the Crescent pairs of moon emerging from its mouth like fangs. He was a Arc yes, but also a Belladonna the family who founded the Fang, the group who once strived for equality and he'd carry that honor and burden wherever he went. As he boarded the ship he looked out to the sea and promised himself.
"I'm coming Blake…"
Sorry if this felt rushed as fuck, it just honestly I want to keep this and Xiao-Long around the same span in time. Also if you don't like this version of Adam that the point, I actually hate Adam after Vol 3, especially since when Blake first spoke of him he seemed like her mentor who'd chosen a darker path for a better tomorrow and villain with a solid reason. Then he turned into edgelord ex-boyfriend... I can still kinda rationalize that the dud spiralled after losing his love, being threatened into working for by a human and so forth but still. yuck.
Usually I'd try to avoid using him this way but honestly, it's just easier to write him like this for this story. Next chapter would show how this Jaune fights, maybe a certain fight with a brawler while he trying to look up some info on his sister from a certain club owner. 'wink, wink' Keep in mind this Jauen is will be more politically aware than his counterpart due to his upbringing.
Now then a question recently after getting a PM I decided to write a Lemon chapter about Ruby and Jaune from Jaune Xiao-Long. I'm wondering if you want one fro this story too. feel free to answer in the comments or just PM me.
