A/N: Finally. After all this time, I found it. The PM story was basically the Magnum Opus of Old Man Jaune. I was hoping to upload this one day but just lost it.
If there are any Old Man Jaune fans, sorry. It might as well be temporarily discontinued. Let's face it, King of Grimm is the superior Future Jaune story of the two. I'm having way more fun with King of Grimm and it seems much closer to completion in comparison to Old Man Jaune.
That doesn't mean I will never finish it. I just wanna finish King of Grimm before I ever go back to Old Man Jaune.
Hope you enjoy this movie, and I hope you have plenty of time to spare because this is looong. Over 64,000 words, so either be one hell of a speed reader or have a crap ton of time on your hands.
Admittedly, there is some missing context in this story since I wrote a lot of other scenarios before this, but hey, it's technically non-canon to the over all story, so yeah.
Onto the story!
Jaune was riding through the sands of Vaccuo, alone, the shattered moon and his Beowolf his only companions.
As he rode, his scroll rung. He took it out and answered immediately. "Yeah?"
"Mind telling me why you're not at the base," Raven asked.
Jaune sighed. "I'm sorry. I just... I needed to clear my head."
"Mm. I get it. It's only been two days. Not even close to a week. If I were in your shoes. . . Just don't get into any trouble. Solis lost his mother. He doesn't need to lose a father in the week."
Jaune chuckled. "Lost his mother? Then who am I talking to?"
"Don't get smart with me, hero. Just clear your head and get back before Lyra gets hissy. She's more protective of you than Winter."
"Alright. I'll be out for a few-"
"Oh, hold on."
"Hm?"
Moments passed. "Hi, daddy!"
Jaune smiled. "Hey, Phoenix. Considering how high the moon is, shouldn't you be in bed?"
"Sorry. I heard mommy talking and thought it was you."
"You always were a clever girl, Pho. You taking care of your siblings?"
"Yeah! I got Gelb to sleep by myself. I miss Nix, though."
"She's with her mother, but don't worry. When your dad is done with his 'job', we'll go see Nix and Mama Winter again. You'll see."
"Yay!"
"Are you getting used to Solis?"
"Mhm. He's so cute! Don't worry, daddy, I'll keep him and mommy safe!"
"I know you will, Pho. Now, get some sleep."
"Alright!"
Moments passed.
Raven sighed. "It's honestly weird, being in my daughter's life like this."
"In a good way?"
"No other way. Makes me realize what I missed all those years ago. Don't you dare miss any more than you need to. Get back home soon, alright?"
"Alright. Good-bye. . . I love you."
"Oh, how bold of the man who shared a bed with four different women to say that to little old me."
"Urgh."
Raven giggled. "Love you, too, hero." With that, Raven hung up.
Jaune sighed before he was surprised when his Beowolf abruptly stopped, growling. "What's wrong, boy?" He looked up and saw nothing. Well, he saw nothing at first.
He could have sworn he saw something shimmer beneath the moonlight. Just in case, he turned his eyes to Grimm. As soon as he did, a castle appeared right in front of him. "What?"
Jaune got off his Beowolf and walked towards the castle, only to feel what was left of his hoodie getting grabbed and looked to see his Beowolf stopping him. He was shocked to see it looked... worried.
It's true that his Beowolves are not as feral or vicious as the Beowolves of old, but they were all fearless still. They only got this protective when there's great danger nearby, which is how they've been able to protect and warn the Rebels. They've helped the Rebels avoid unwinnable fights against Grimm Hordes, Grimmkind, Penelope, and on one terrifying occasion, Salem herself. Whatever was in that castle must have been a major threat.
Jaune rubbed the steed's snout. "It's alright, boy. I can handle whatever is in there." The Beowolf let out a cute yet sad whine before it released its master, Jaune looking at the castle. "At least I hope I can," he said as he placed his hand on Crocea Mors. Then, he looked down and saw the Sword of Destruction and smiled. "Actually, I know I can." He then walked towards the castle.
And then he walked up against something. "Ow," he went as he held his nose. He then held out his hand and touched an invisible wall. "What the hell? Is this... magic? But... that's impossible. Only Mother should be able to. . . Oh." Jaune then took out his Sword of Destruction. "Milady?"
"Ah, Darling, it's been a while."
"Sorry for that. I was hoping you'd help me with this forcefield. My Mother forged it over a hidden castle."
"Did she, now? Place the tip of my blade against it, so that I may analyze it." Jaune did as such. "Hm. Curious."
"What is it?"
"This magic... isn't your mother's."
"What? No. That can't be right. Raven and Winter wouldn't, or more accurately, couldn't do this. Nor could Cinder. Their magic is purely elemental. Could it have been-"
"It wasn't Ambrosius. This is... foreign magic."
"Foreign?"
"Yes. Be careful, Darling. This isn't anything you've ever faced before."
Jaune looked at the castle and gained a determined look. "Bring it. Can we destroy it?"
Lady of the Lake giggled. "Oh, please." She absorbed a bit of Jaune's Aura, enough for just the tip of the blade to glow. That was enough to break a hole big enough for Jaune to walk through. When he did, he looked around until he heard a crunch. He looked down to see that he had stepped on, "A flower? In the middle of Vacuo? I haven't gone nearly far enough to-" He was silenced when he looked up.
Before he was a field of white roses, trees with leaves as green as Glynda's eyes, and apples as red as Raven's eyes. In the distance, he saw that the castle was surrounded by a moat filled with crystal clear, blue water that shinned as beautifully as Winter's eyes; shining even more beautifully under the light of the shattered moon.
"What is this? It's so... beautiful." He then heard something and looked towards the tree. "A horse?"
As soon as he said that, a creature as big as his Beowolf walked out, looking at Jaune with its scab-covered face, eyes nowhere to be seen, looking a sickly green and purple coloring. It roared at Jaune, its head splitting in four different directions, revealing its mouth filled with sharpened teeth before it charged at Jaune, tentacles spewing out of its back.
"That's no horse," Jaune said as he took his stance.
When it got close enough, Jaune slashed. In the next moment, the beast was walking past him, Jaune still in his post-swing stance. The beast then roared in pain before it disintegrated.
"Darling, I have a feeling you shouldn't do this alone."
"I have a feeling you're right," Jaune said as he took out his scroll. He tried to activate it. "Huh?" He pressed the button several times, to no avail. "What is this? No scroll has done this before."
"It's this place's magic. It's hampering your technology."
"Better turn back," Jaune said as he turned around and tried to exit into the desert, only for the fog to suddenly appear before him. "WHAT IN THE-" he yelled before being engulfed.
He stumbled out of it, only to see the castle in front of him again.
He looked behind to see the desert and his Beowolf. Mentally ordering it to leave, he watched as the Beowolf ran past the barrier, the creature looking back at Jaune with a tilt of its head. Jaune stared at it and walked towards his Beowolf, only for the fog to appear again.
And once again, he was looking at the castle. "Someone doesn't want me to leave."
"We can just break the spell, Darling."
"No. Whoever is powerful enough to use such magic shouldn't be left alone, even to collect reinforcements. Besides, something tells me whoever is doing this can remake the spell as quickly as we can break it, and I don't want to waste our power. I'll just send a Beowolf to inform everyone of my predicament."
He gave the order and watched the Beowolf run off, only to see it slashed in half and fade away.
Jaune then looked towards the castle, seeing that whatever killed his Beowolf came from it. "Guess we're on our own."
"Oh, lovely. A date."
With a chuckle, Jaune walked towards the castle, getting ready for whatever may be in store for him.
Meanwhile, within the castle, on a beautiful throne, sat the shadowed figure of a beautiful woman. As she sat, her ruby red lips rose into a smile. "Come to me, little wolf. Come to your new mistress."
Jaune was walking down the bridge, looking up at the tall castle. 'I wonder... does Mother's castle look like this?' Jaune then glared towards the side of the bridge.
As soon as he did, a giant tentacle shot out, high into the sky, ready to smash him. 'That's not Tentacle Grimm,' Jaune thought.
He easily cartwheeled out of the way of the tentacle, slashing the appendage off. When the beast screeched in pain, more tentacles appeared. One tried to jab Jaune from behind, but he was able to backflip and land on the tentacle, stabbing into it with the Sword of Destruction, the tentacle shining brightly before it began to turn to dust.
As the beast screeched, three of the tentacles tried to grab Jaune at once, but he was able to jump high enough to land on the topmost tentacle, running down the massive body part, slashing it with both Crocea Mors and the Sword of Destruction as he did so. He then jumped off the now falling tentacle and turned towards the water. What ever was attack him was huge, visible under the clean water. Jaune had never seen an octopus so huge, but that didn't matter. What mattered was that it was trying to kill him.
Jaune then reeled back the Sword of Destruction, fueling her with his Aura. Thinking it was its opportunity, the octopus lunged all of its remaining tentacles towards Jaune. When the blade was now shining brightly, Jaune swung the sword with all his might, sending a shining wave towards the beast.
The light slashed through the very water itself, parting the beautiful moat to reveal the hideous creature, the monster screaming in agony as it split in two before fading away.
As Jaune began to fall, he sheathed Crocea and reeled back his Grimm Arm. He then grabbed the bridge and pulled his way back onto the bridge as the water splashed back to place. He looked into the water, still clear despite a monster being slain within it. He thought it was thanks to the power of the Sword of Destruction, erasing all traces of the beast.
He then looked towards the castle. "Lady of the Lake, what do we face?"
"I do not know, Darling. Just be on your guard. I fear my power may be hampered in there."
"What? How is that possible?"
"I don't know, but I can feel myself growing weaker as we grow closer. No, more accurately, I'm becoming... drowsy."
"Drowsy?"
"Someone in there knows of my power, which is why they're trying to hinder me. I fear I will fall into a slumber, leaving you vulnerable. I... I'm sorry."
Jaune looked at his trusted Relic. "Will your blade grow dull?"
"No. Never. I can never dull. I can never break. I will never need sharpening. And most of all, I will never be touched by those unworthy, even if I slumber. I am still the ultimate weapon, wielded only by you and those like you. You just won't be able to use my full power. All I am is an unbreakable sword."
Jaune smiled. "Then you're more than I deserve. Rest, my friend. Whatever this is, it will be gone when you awaken."
"Be safe... my... dear."
With that, the Sword of Destruction became just a bit duller, Jaune sensing that it was much weaker than before. Now, it was no different from Crocea Mors itself, just a tad bit tougher.
"Rest my friend." He then drew Crocea Mors and expertly spun the two magnificent blades before holding them at his sides, looking ready to face what may come. "I'll be able to handle this just fine on my own." With that, he walked towards the castle.
As he was doing so, he was being watched by the mistress of the castle. "You've done well, sorcerer."
"I live to please, Your Grace," the robed man said with a bow. "I have never seen a blade so magnificent, nor a spirit with such power. Had it been allowed to aid this intruder, he would have brought our castle down to its very foundation."
"It is that powerful, is it? Then its wielder is just as grand. I knew I saw potential in him. He will make a fine servant in this new, beautiful world. I am quite grateful to being sent here." The mistress then looked towards the moon. "A world of eternal night. Three straight days of unbroken darkness. It is the eternal paradise of the denizens of the dark. It shall be mine."
"Mistress, I must also inform you, that man has a unique power."
"Yes, I can sense it. After all, such a man was able to tame that lycanthrope. He may be useful in many ways."
"Your Grace."
"Hm?" She looked to her side to see someone bowing to her in the shadows. "Let me test him. Should he survive me, I shall bring him to you, where you will mold him as you see fit. Should he fail, I shall bring his corpse for you to feast on."
The mistress smiled. "Very well. Be on your way, my loyal werewolf."
The man's eyes opened, glowing yellow in the shadows before vanishing.
Jaune pushed the doors open, walking in and looking around. "Fancy." He then heard groaning and looked towards a corridor.
Out of the shadows ran out mutants, zombies, and abominations.
"Not so fancy."
Jaune then slammed his hand onto the ground, darkness spreading. As soon as the first mutation got near the pool, a Beowolf lunged out and tore out its throat.
"Oooh."
"Mistress, he seems more powerful than anticipated."
The Mistress watched Jaune's Beowolves make short work of her monsters. She then held out her hand.
As Jaune entered the next room, he screamed in agony as a magic shot into him from all directions. When it was over, he fell to one knee, panting from exhaustion. He then heard whining and looked back at his Beowolves. He watched as they vanished with sad howls. "What the fuck just happened?"
The Mistress looked at her hand, now shaking, sparks appearing around it.
"My Lady," the sorcerer went in worry.
"This much effort just to seal one man's magic. . . Indeed, he is powerful beyond measure. Much greater than our enemies before. He must become our servant."
"As you wish, Your Grace. Do not fret. Morris will bring him to you."
"Mm."
Jaune tried to summon his Beowolves but to no avail. "My powers are sealed? How?" He then tried to test his other powers and saw they were working just fine. He could still stretch his Grimm Arm, still use his Grimm senses, his Semblance still worked, and he tried to see if he could still transform by turning his left arm. All were still usable.
"Just my summoning. . . I'm being watched."
The Mistress chuckled. "Clever man."
"His value is increasing, Mistress."
"Let's see how far he shall go."
Jaune walked through another door, only to end up falling off of a crumbling path. He safely landed on his feet, looking around to see that the section of the castle was destroyed. There was a massive hole that let in moonlight, a tower in the distance in front of the shattered moon.
Jaune then noticed something was on the tower. He watched the figure stand... and howl. "WHAT?!"
The figure jumped and landed in front of Jaune, snarling at him. "You're coming with me."
"You look... just like..." Jaune then snarled, semi-transforming, his tail, ears, claws, and fangs appearing. "So that's how it is, huh?"
"Ah, so that explains your strength. You're one of us, brother."
Jaune drew Crocea Mors and pointed his claws at his opponent. "Did Mother send you?"
"Mother? What are you talking about? No, a better question is, how are you not fully transformed? What kind of werewolf are you?"
"What did you just call me," Jaune asked in confusion.
"It matters not. HAVE AT YOU!" The werewolf then charged at Jaune.
With a snarl, Jaune charged back, beginning his duel with the werewolf.
Jaune's Crocea Mors clashed with the werewolf's claws.
"WHY DON'T YOU FULLY TRANSFORM?!"
"LIKE I'M GOING TO GO ALL OUT FOR YOUR MASTER TO STUDY ME!"
"CLEVER!" The werewolf then slashed at Jaune, but Jaune blocked the slash with the sole of his boot. However, his enemy gripped Jaune's boot and threw him. Jaune landed on a wall but was tackled through it by the werewolf.
The werewolf was about to stab Jaune in the face with his claws, but Jaune was able to bite the hand before it reached him, making the werewolf yelp in response before Jaune kicked him off and jumped to his feet.
The werewolf looked at his hand before looking back at Jaune. "I am Morris, loyal werewolf guard of the Mistress."
"Mistress, huh? Alright, I'll play. My name is Jaune. Jaune Salem Arc, the Beowolf Grimmkind."
That perked the Mistress's interest. "Beowolf? Grimmkind? How interesting. This paradise has many new secrets for us to learn."
Morris stared at Jaune and sniffed the air. "I see. No wonder you did not fully transform in the light of the moon. You're not truly a werewolf. You're inferior."
"Inferior, am I? Yet, here I am, holding back, while you're going all ou-" Before Jaune could finish, Morris grabbed his face, his claws digging into Jaune's head, smashing him into the ground. The werewolf then dragged Jaune through the stone before throwing him through another wall.
Jaune landed with a skid, his Aura starting to flicker.
"THIS IS WHAT HAPPENS WHEN YOU INSULT A PROUD WEREWOLF, 'BROTHER'!"
Jaune looked up to see Morris lunge at him, mouth wide open to take a bite out of him. Thinking fast, Jaune held the Sword of Destruction out in front of him.
'Fool. No blade can survive my bite. I will snap your pretty blade in two and slit open your throat,' Morris thought.
He then chomped on the Sword of Destruction's blade. His eyes widened when he felt how hard the weapon was, his teeth feeling like they were actually cracking. Then, he felt something else.
He screamed and howled in horrible pain and anguish as he felt like his entire mouth was on fire. It felt as if his mouth was melting before the searing pain coursed throughout his body. He then glared at Jaune as he held his throat. "That blade of onyx and amethyst! 'Tis a holy blade!"
"And if she is," Jaune asked as he rested the Lady on his shoulder.
"How?! You are a creature of the dark! How could you wield the bane of our kind?!"
"She lets me."
"She?"
"And besides, I need all the help I can get..." He pointed the blade at Morris. "If I want to end this eternal nightmare, and bring light back to Remnant."
The Mistress watched Jaune as he spoke. She then snapped her fingers, and an undead servant walked up with a plate, a golden chalice filled with a red liquid atop it. She then took the bejeweled cup and elegantly sipped out of it... before throwing it at Jaune's face, the cup phasing through the spell allowing her to watch him. "Fool. He wishes to destroy paradise. He is in need of much training."
"Bring back the light? No. That cannot happen. It seems you are far too dangerous... to hold back against."
"Alright. Show me what you can-" Jaune's eyes widened when he felt a strike to his gut. His Aura then shattered before he was sent flying. Then, while in the air, he was slashed countless times from all directions, Morris jumping from all around the area to attack Jaune. He then finished off his onslaught by jumping above Jaune and spinning down towards him, becoming a spinning ball of blades that slammed into Jaune's back before the two smashed into the ground.
Morris jumped out of the cloud he created and looked at the now-facedown Jaune, watching as his tight grip around his swords loosened, the swords rolling out of his hand.
Morris then walked over towards Jaune, lifting him by his throat, his eyes hidden by his hair. "You were indeed powerful, Jaune Salem Arc, but not strong enough." He noticed how Jaune's hand was twitching. "Well, I can't have you attack me while I bring you back to the Mistress," he said as he reeled back his arm. "Don't worry. The sorcerer is proficient in necromancy. You can be brought back from the dead." With that, Morris tried to stab Jaune in the throat.
However, Jaune surprised him by grabbing his wrist. Morris then watched as Jaune's previously human arm began to transform, turning black and clawed, large enough for his hand to wrap around Morris's wrist. He then looked to see Jaune grow physically bigger, as large as Morris himself, his face morphing into that of a wolf. Then, moments later, Jaune was as large as Morris himself, red eyes glowing viciously, teeth shining in the moonlight, with Jaune snarling at his enemy. Jaune then released a roaring howl that shook the entire castle before punching Morris in the chest with enough strength to send him smashing through several walls.
The Mistress studied Jaune's form... and smiled. "Beautiful."
Jaune appeared in the room Morris was in, a pile of rubble in front of him. Morris then punched the rocks off of him, growling at Jaune. "So that's your true form. You truly are a brother. And yet, you wish to waste our power by destroying this glorious world of the endless night?!"
". . . Yeah. I do."
"IGNORANT PUP!" Morris then charged at Jaune, with Jaune charging as well.
The two wolves lunged at each other, slamming into each other with enough force to send shock waves that destroyed the walls around them. They then began to fight like beasts, slashing, clawing, and biting each other. Jaune even grabbed a large stone and smashed it against Morris's head. While he was dazed, Jaune even went so far as to bite off Morris's ear.
In retaliation, Morris stabbed Jaune in the side. Jaune could actually feel that Morris pierced his liver. Morris then stabbed his claws into Jaune's shoulder and began to spin around. He then threw Jaune through several walls, Jaune slamming against a large chunk of debris and falling to his knees with a groan.
He then heard Morris's claws and saw him lunging, claws outstretched.
He didn't know if it was out of desperation, rage, or dominance, but Jaune took a deep breath and gave out his loudest howl ever. That howl was no different from a sound cannon, hitting Morris with such force that he slammed into a wall and fell onto his face.
Jaune was panting, exhausted from the howl. 'What... WAS that,' he asked himself. He then groaned in pain as he fell to one knee, slowly turning back, his face back to being human, but still Grimm with his white hair and skin, coupled with his red and black eyes.
He then heard growling and looked up to see Morris stand back onto his feet, snarling at Jaune like the wolf he is. "AAAARC!" He then ran towards Jaune on all fours.
'I can't transform. I'm too tired,' he thought as he tried to get up, only to see something near his foot. He looked down and saw something that made his eyes widen.
Morris then lunged at Jaune, claws ready to impale him.
Jaune then glared at Morris challengingly, grabbing what he saw, and roared as Morris roared back.
Then... blood was splattered.
Jaune and Morris glared into the other's eyes. Jaune groaned, gritting his teeth since Morris's claws were piercing through his right shoulder. Morris smirked... before he coughed up blood.
For Jaune was able to pierce the werewolf's heart with the Sword of Destruction.
Morris stepped away, the blade sliding out of his chest. Morris groaned as more blood flowed out of his wound, the werewolf turning back into a man. He looked at Jaune and smiled with a weak chuckle before falling to his back.
Jaune looked at the fallen enemy before sighing in relief, standing back up and fully turning back into a human as he grabbed Crocea Mors, sheathing both of his trusted weapons. He then walked over and knelt down towards Morris, the light leaving his eyes.
"Am I... bested?"
". . . Yes. You are bested."
He chuckled. "At least... I was slain... by a fellow werewolf."
"Morris, I'm not a werewolf."
Morris looked towards Jaune with a smile. "No. You're one of us, if not by blood than by thy spirit. You are... a true lycan. One I would have gladly called brother."
"Morris."
Morris sighed. "Finally. Peace."
"Peace? Weren't you loyal to the Mistress of this castle?"
Morris opened his eyes as much as he could. "Loyal. Yes... a loyal servant. That's all I was. No different from a slave. She never saw me as an equal or anything of value. Just another servant to use as she pleased. She always looked down on me... like most of her kind did against Lycans."
"Her kind? Morris, who is the Mistress? Who am I fighting?"
Morris was quiet for a bit. "One of the mightiest of the nobles. A vampire among vampires."
"A what," Jaune asked with wide eyes.
"The Bloody Countess, Carmilla."
"Carmilla," Jaune said.
"Brother, I do not know how prevalent vampires are in your world, but where we were banished from, the vampires were the mightiest of beasts, and she was among the most powerful, surpassed only by one other." Morris turned to look at Jaune. "Like the Vampire King, Carmilla has been resurrected and reincarnated too many times to count. She has been slain by Vampire Hunters, brave humans, the Vampire King, and even by his son. The sorcerer she keeps has shown how she was slain by the whip, staked through the heart, and even had her spirit destroyed by the dhampir while the vampire she betrayed destroyed her body. She has been slain countless times, yet finds a way to return, sometimes more powerful than the last."
Jaune looked away. "Sounds just like my Mother. Why is she here?"
"She... was banished. Her and her castle. A well-meaning priestess thought she was freeing her world from Carmilla's curse, only to force it upon you."
"Then I'll just have to break it," Jaune said as he stood up. He was stopped when Morris grabbed his arm.
"Brother, she knows of your awesome power now. Through this bout and what you have accomplished before, she knows of your value. She... will... covet you." Morris coughed up more blood. "She will try to enslave you, and use you to spread her rule across this Paradise of Darkness. You have to defeat her and prevent other tragedies such as mine. Your strength, your powers, that holy blade dangling off your right hip, she wishes to use it all for her own gain. If she obtains you, she'll be unstoppable."
Jaune stared at Morris. "You underestimate my family. My Mother is exceptionally powerful. She won't let Carmilla take over her world. Not without waging an unholy war that will cause even more suffering."
Morris grabbed Jaune's arm with his free hand to drag him closer. "You... underestimate... your own... power. If you... were unleashed... you would be..." He coughed more. "An invincible force. Brother, he who stands tall... is righteous. The victor... is always... just. Do... what. . . you. . . must. . . . Win."
With that last word, Morris let out a death sigh, eyes still slightly open as he did. In a sign of respect, Jaune closed Morris's eyes just as he began to fade away. Jaune watched as the last bit of dust in his hands was blown away by the breeze.
Jaune then stood up and looked towards the highest tower, the largest and most imposing of all the buildings the castle house. Jaune could almost see the evil radiating from it. "Carmilla... I'm coming for you."
Jaune then walked towards the door, preparing to enter the castle once more. Before he reached the door, he winced in pain and looked down to see he was barefoot.
'Right. Transforming destroys most of my clothes, like my boots. I haven't even had that pair for a month. I can already hear Glynda's lecture paired with that glare of hers.' Jaune sighed as he lifted his foot and yanked the sharpened stone out from the bottom of his foot, a small drop of blood seeping out. 'If my Aura was intact, this would have healed before any blood could even squeeze the tiniest of drops out. I probably wouldn't even get hurt.'
Jaune then heard a crack. He looked at his chest and saw cracks in his armor before it totally broke to pieces. Jaune caught the broken armor before it fell to the ground, sighing as he looked at the golden ends. 'I just keep hurting you, don't I... Pyrrha?'
Still carrying the armor, Jaune entered the castle, looking around at the beautiful yet gothic interior.
"Oh? Oooh, a customer!"
Jaune looked towards the voice. "What the-?"
Before Jaune was a monster that was barely as tall as his knee. "And already a good job to undertake! One such as you shouldn't be carrying shattered armor! Especially when it's such an easy fix! And even better, you are more than wealthy enough to have such flimsy metal fixed! Come in! Come, come! We are open to the public, my good werewolf! Come," the monster said as it walked through curtains Jaune was sure wasn't there before.
"I'm not a- Oh, what's the use?" Jaune then followed the creature, not sensing any negativity coming from it, which he found strange.
Jaune then saw... a lot of weird stuff.
"Welcome to my shop, my dear wolf."
"Uh, thanks. What are you?"
"My word! Have you truly never seen a Chupacabra before?"
"A-A chupo- Chupa-wha?"
The Chupacabra sighed. "Oh, just call me an imp, or dwarf, or whatever you werewolves see my kind as. It doesn't matter. What does matter is that lovely amount of wealth you have! Welcome to my lovely shop, my noble wolf."
Jaune looked around. "What are these things?"
"Potions. Emblems. Armor. Name it, I have it. We also offer information and repairs to equipment."
Jaune's eyes widened. "Can you fix this," Jaune asked as he held out his shattered armor.
"Hm? Hmmm. Yes. Quite easily." Jaune sighed in relief. "But why would you want that dingy thing?" Jaune's eyes turned cold. "Customer, we have much better armor for your use. For example-"
"Just fix my armor," Jaune said coldly.
"Ooh. Very well. Place it on the counter, please." Jaune did so. The dwarf grabbed a shard and looked it over. "Hm, white steel and gold, I see. Fine craftsmanship, for human standards anyway. Far too poor for a proud werewolf."
"Enough. Just fix it."
"Of course. Anything for a paying customer." The dwarf then placed the shard with the rest of the armor. He then began to do an odd dance, the armor glowing. When he made one final move, the shards were shining brightly before a flash occurred. Before Jaune knew it, his armor was fixed. He held it up, smiling happily at it. "Good as new. Though, I must apologize."
"For what?"
"I did not know that armor held such a special power."
Jaune looked at the dwarf. "Special power?"
"I can usually tell an enchanted relic when I see one, but it might be because the magic around that armor is so young and dormant. If you want, I can awaken it, though it would take time and would need to stay with me."
Jaune looked at his armor before looking at the dwarf. "What do you mean by power?"
"You do not know? That armor is blessed. It's as if a holy maiden's love resides within it." Jaune's eyes widened before he looked back at his armor, especially the gold accents. "In fact, now that I've felt it, your sword has the same faint magic radiating from it. The one on your left hip." Jaune looked down at Crocea Mors. "Since the blade is still perfectly intact, it would be much simpler to awaken compared to the armor. Interested?"
Jaune looked at Crocea Mors, again paying attention to the gold. "Yes. I would."
"Place it once more on the counter, sir." Jaune did so. The dwarf did his same odd dance, but it was much shorter compared to the armor repair. "There we are. I can enhance it a bit more with proper materials that can be found around the castle."
Jaune lifted his sword and was shocked as he held it up. "It's so... light."
"And even more powerful."
"This is amazing. How much lien do I owe you?"
The dwarf blinked. "What the devil is lien?"
"Huh? Um, money."
"Money?" The dwarf laughed. "Oh, you are quite the jester, Sir Wolf." He laughed some more before he looked at a confused Jaune. "Wait, 'twas not a jest? You truly believe I wish to be compensated with mortal compensation?"
"But, I don't have anything else."
"Of course you do, dear boy! You have all of those souls you've collected!"
"I have what?!"
"Do you wish to keep them for yourself?! Then why enter my shop?!"
"What are you even talking about?!"
"Wait, do you truly not know," the dwarf asked with a raised eyebrow. He then sighed. "Werewolves. They truly can be simple-minded beasts. Come here, boy." Confused, Jaune knelt down towards the Chupacabra. The dwarf then clasped Jaune's face. "Mm, chiseled. Fine bone structure. Truly the face of a warrior who has seen much... yet not truly awake. Are you truly a Child of the Night?"
"Huh?"
"Well, let's wake you up, shall we? Uum-ba-ba-GRRRIT," he went as he bopped Jaune's forehead.
Yet, that little bop felt like a punch to the face from a Beringel to Jaune. "Aah! Tssss, you hit hard for a little guy," Jaune went.
"Thank you!"
"What the hell was that for any-" Jaune's eyes widened before he screamed. "WHAT THE FUCK IS WITH WRONG WITH MY ARM?!"
"Now can you see them?"
"WHAT IN THE NAME OF THE GODS ARE THESE?! WHY ARE THEY SWIRLING AROUND MY GRIMM ARM?!"
"Those are the souls you and your servants have collected throughout the castle."
"WHAT?!"
"Did you not know? The moment you kill a monster, they are drawn to that lovely arm of yours. Quite efficient, I must say."
"You mean, everything I've killed, everything my Beowolves have killed, they've been getting sucked into my arm?!"
"Indeed. Now, for the payment." The Chupacabra then began to inhale, sucking in some of the souls, the ghostly wind circling Jaune's arm lessening.
"There's still a freaky mist with faces around my arm!"
"That's all you owed. I can't take any more unless you purchase something, and you have plenty of souls to purchase some of my finer wares."
"HOW DO I UNSEE THIS?!"
The dwarf sighed. "Just concentrate and imagine the fog dissipating." Jaune then closed his eyes, taking a few deep breaths before opening them again to see the mist was gone. He let out a sigh of relief.
"I don't understand why your Eyes of the Night were blind..." He looked at the dwarf. "But now that you can See again, you'll be able to see the various secrets hidden in this castle. Hidden rooms, rare material, even invisible adversaries once you truly See."
Jaune reached for his eyes before looking at the dwarf. "Um, thanks."
"Pleasure doing business. . . May I see your arm, sir?"
"Uh, sure," Jaune said as he held out his arm.
The Chupacabra grabbed the arm, analyzing it. "Mm... Magnificent. I've never seen a werewolf with such a unique arm. In fact, I don't think even noble vampires have ever had such a specimen. I can see why the Mistress holds such an interest in you, dear wolf."
"It's Jaune."
"Mm, Sir Jaune. Lovely name. I do hope we can do more business, Sir Arc. My shop will be all around the castle behind the crimson drapes. You can't miss it~" he went in a sing-song voice.
Jaune looked at his arm before looking at his armor before looking back at the dwarf. "Can we do more business? I mean, do I have enough souls?"
"Oh, of course. You were fortunate enough to slay the moat's Kraken and slay our dear Lord Morris before coming here. Their souls are especially valuable. Worth far more than say an undead."
Jaune looked down sadly. "I'm sorry... for killing him."
"Oh, don't apologize. His soul was put to good use. It's how I strengthened your sword, and with more souls like his, I'll be able to draw out your armor's full potential."
Jaune smiled. "Glad his soul wasn't wasted. Oh, can I ask about the Mistress and the castle?"
"Of course. We dabble in information broking as well, but that will cost souls as well."
Jaune sighed. "Ooof course."
The Chupacabra inhaled more souls from Jaune's arm, sucking his lips as if he had a five-star meal. "Delectable. Now then, what would you like to know, Sir Jaune?"
"The Mistress of the castle, Carmilla, what can you tell me about her?"
"Ah, Lady Carmilla. She is a very old and powerful vampire. Her power is second only to another, but he has been dead for years. Like the Vampire King before her, Lady Carmilla has had many incarnations, in many different timelines. She was slain many a time by many a skilled warrior, from vampire hunters like the Belmonts to Dhampirs like Lord Dracula's sons. However, she has never been bested by a werewolf. You'd be the first of your kind to accomplish such a feat."
"The first, huh? Am I able to beat her?"
"Currently... it would be very difficult, but not impossible. Though, I'd advise against it until you're back to full power, even with that holy weapon dangling from your right hip."
"Full power?"
"Your powers are sealed, are they not?"
Jaune's eyes widened before he looked at his arm.
"What can't you do anymore?"
Jaune sighed. "I can't summon my Beowolves anymore. I also noticed that I can't stretch my arm as far as I was able to before." He then reached for his shoulder, which still had the holes from Morris's stab. "My regenerative powers are weaker, too. Hell, I even feel weaker, slower, and heavier. Worst of all..." He looked down at his Relic. "My Lady is asleep. She said that a spell has placed her in slumber. She's no different from an unbreakable sword that burns monsters like acid."
"Ah, yes. Your Holy Sword. Lovely artifact, that is. It's a shame it feels like it's burning me just looking at it. It would have fetched quite the price."
"She will NEVER be for sale," Jaune went coldly and angrily.
"Understandable. Still, I can't stand to see such powerful weapons being wasted like that. So, here's some more information on the house. The sorcerer who cursed you has guardians all throughout the castle. They protect crystals that fuel his magic and strengthen both him and possibly the Mistress. Destroy the crystals, and you not only regain your sealed powers, but weaken the sorcerer, obtain more valuable souls, and obtain materials I can use to enhance your equipment."
"Equipment? All I need is my armor and my swords. I don't need any-"
"Ah-tat-tat. I already told you. You paid in full for me to fully unleash your armor's potential, and it must stay with me for the time being. I do not know for how long, but certainly long enough for you to need new armor."
Jaune sighed. "Fine. What do you have?"
The dwarf snickered excitedly as he jumped down and danced in front of a wall. When he was done, the wall moved out of the way. Jaune whistled at what was inside, honestly impressed. Behind the wall was armor as black as the fur of a Beowolf, gauntlets that allowed the hands to be free (meaning nothing would be in the way of the claws), boots with a peculiar design, and an emblem of a snarling wolf on the breastplate.
"Sir Jaune, I give to you, the Wolf King's Garb."
"Wolf King, huh?"
"It had many names, but that one is my personal favorite. However, there's a special curse on the armor."
"It's what?"
"Cursed. Like any wolf, the armor chooses who will be its alpha. It's lord or king if you will. I have yet to sell it off to anyone. Not even Carmilla's personal werewolf was worthy of the armor. The emblem nearly bit the poor man's arm off. If it finds you unworthy, it will attack you."
Jaune looked at the dwarf before looking at the armor. He then jumped over the counter and stood before the armor. The dwarf looked to see Jaune just staring at it. Confused, the dwarf was about to question Jaune before he felt a shiver up his spine. He then noticed the menacing look on Jaune's face, making the dwarf fumble back in fear a bit.
Then, Jaune reached out and placed his hand on the emblem. The dwarf could almost hear the sound of a submissive howl coming from the armor. "My word."
Jaune lowered his hand. "I'll take it, but only until my armor is repaired."
"Oh! Of course! Of course," the Chupacabra went excitedly before rummaging beneath his counter.
"How much do I owe?"
"NOTHING! I've been trying to rid myself of that dusty armor for YEARS! CENTURIES, EVEN! I've finally found it a worthy master! Oh, but it will cost you if you wish for me to enhance it."
"Saw that coming." Jaune then looked at the armor. "Better change into this," he said as he reached for his hoody, taking it off. Right as his head was getting out of the sweater, revealing his toned body, he did not notice how the eyes on the emblem's wolf began to glow. The armor then turned to mist and engulfed Jaune. "WHAT THE HELL?!"
The dwarf looked back to see Jaune in the armor, the suit fitting him perfectly. "What just happened?!"
"I did say it was cursed, did I not? It will appear and disappear when you see fit. Oh, and here, another gift from me."
Jaune looked at the dwarf to see him holding a vial. Jaune examined and took it, his eyes widening at the content. "Is this... blood?"
"Of course not," the dwarf said with a snicker. "That is a powerful potion known as Saint's Tears."
"Saint's Tears?"
"Go on. Drink, drink!"
Jaune looked at the dwarf with a raised eyebrow before looking at the vial. Throwing caution to the wind, Jaune gulped down the vial. He felt an intense burning down his throat and in his stomach, but moments later, he felt good as new. He noticed his shoulder didn't hurt as much and looked to see that it was healed. He then saw a golden flash across his arm.
"My Aura!"
"That potion fully restores the target completely. It even revives their defensive magic, like that Aura you just mentioned, though I don't believe that is how the spell works. Still, it works. You have some souls left. Would you like to buy more?"
Jaune looked at the wears and sighed. "No thank you."
"Shame. At least take this medallion. Use it in a life or death situation only."
"Thank you. We'll meet again, I'm sure of it," Jaune said as he began to leave.
"Oh, almost forgot. This is just a rumor, but still relevant. Be wary of the Grimm Reaper."
"Grimm Reaper? MARIA?! MARIA CALAVERA IS STILL ALIVE," Jaune asked excitedly before realization hit him. "No. That's impossible."
"Who the devil is Maria Calavera? I mean the personification of death, the Death God!
"Got it," Jaune said after the clarification.
The dwarf sighed. "Just be on your guard. Despite the holy weapon you wiled, it may not be enough against Death."
"We'll see. Goodbye, Chupacabra," Jaune said as he left his shop.
"Until next we meet, King of the Beowolves," the dwarf said.
Jaune walked into the next room, leaving the room now littered with monster corpses as they faded away. As Jaune walked, he heard an odd echo. He looked to see what seemed to be a regular wall. He walked over to it and knocked on the wall, hearing a hollow ring. He wasted no time in punching it to find a hidden room with some kind of crystal in it. Jaune ripped the crystal out, appraising it.
"It's not Dust... but I can sense some kind of power from it. I wonder if I can use it," Jaune said as he pocketed it, learning a while back that his cursed armor was able to store items within its pelt-like cape.
He had collected gold, silver, diamonds, gems, weapons, and now crystals in the mysterious cape. And of course, he was still collecting souls as he killed. He was honestly using Crocea Mors more than the Sword of Destruction for slaying. He thought it might be because Crocea was enhanced or because some of his powers were taken, but Crocea felt much easier to wield than his Relic. It also felt nostalgic, being able to use his shield again.
He then came across a dead end before he looked up and saw the next floor and a door. He reeled back his arm and threw it towards the ledge, but it stopped short a mere inch away, his Grimm Arm snapping back. "Seriously? It took away my reach?" Jaune sighed before he started to transform.
"OH, CRAP! I DID TOO MUCH! I ONLY WANTED MY CLAWS ON MY HANDS! MY BOOTS ARE RUINED A... gain?" Jaune noticed that though his clawed feet were visible, there was no sign of any broken metal.
To test it, he reverted back, and saw that his boots were perfectly in tact. He transformed, watching as the metal boots peeled back to allow his feet to transform. Then, he fully transformed to see that the armor accommodated for his massive Beowolf body. "Wow. This army's handy." Jaune then jumped onto the wall, easily climbing it with at least three hops to the top.
Thanks to his powers, he was able to find quite a number of hidden areas, locating some material that looked quite useful, and a few artifacts as well.
Then, as he walked through a hall, he saw a massive picture hanging above the stairs. It was of a woman with skin as pale as his mother's, blood red hair, ruby red lips, and emerald green eyes. She was adorned with a gown as red as her hair, gold accenting it, with a gorgeous golden necklace around her slender neck, hanging just above her ample breasts.
"The Mistress of the Castle, Carmilla. Hate to admit it, but she's beautiful."
"Thank you."
Jaune quickly turned around, taking his stance with Crocea Mors, his blue eyes turning red as he got ready to transform if needed.
Before him was the Mistress herself. "Carmilla."
The beautifully vampiress approached Jaune, slowly yet elegantly, as if showing off her "noble" lineage. "I am pleased to see that my future servant has such refined taste in women. You would be quite difficult to tame had you been so blind to true beauty."
'How did I not notice her?' Jaune then sniffed the air. "Oh, that's why," he said as he lowered his stance, but not his guard.
"Oh? Choosing to surrender already?"
"There's no point in me fighting an illusion. Your sorcerer's doing?"
Carmilla giggled, placing her hand elegantly to her mouth. "Clever wolf. Indeed, I am still in my throne room, waiting for you to be delivered to me."
"Sorry, I'm not coming to you wrapped in a ribbon."
"Ooh."
"Don't picture it. Remnant has been through enough grief. I won't let you continue its suffering."
"You wish to stop me?"
"It's not much of a wish if I'm about to make it come true."
"Charming. I do like your spirit, boy. You will make a fine servant. Possibly one of my favorites."
"I'm honored. Though, after tonight, that compliment will mean nothing."
Carmilla's smile grew a bit. "Silly wolf. You do not seem to understand the forces you are dealing with here. Or, do you honestly believe that just because I do not stand before you truly," she began as she raised her hand. Her expression then became cold and emotionless. "That I am no threat to you?" She then pointed her hand towards Jaune.
Jaune then cried out in pain and agony as he felt a surge of horrid power course through him. It was so intense that he fell to his knees, groaning through the pain before a scream was forced out of him before falling to his hands.
"Do not overestimate yourself. You besting Morris is impressive, but not so grand a feat that my sorcerer could not do so as well. I have servants far more powerful than he. Servants that you will now join, werewolf."
Jaune then tightened his hand, his claws scratching through the floor before he punched the ground, surprising Carmilla. "I... Am not..." He then looked up, showing Carmilla his now white face, the vampiress now noticing his eyes. "A werewolf!"
Jaune then shocked Carmilla even more as he struggled to stand up. As he got to his feet, fighting against Carmilla's power, he was building up a roar as he was rising.
"What power! What are you?!" Carmilla then saw something behind Jaune. A shadowed being forming behind him before it took a shape that she did not recognize. 'A witch?'
What Carmilla was seeing... was a mental image of Salem herself. The powerful witch then smirked at Carmilla.
That's when Jaune roared.
The force of the roar was destroying everything in its path, ripping up the floor, tearing apart the stairs, and slashing the curtains and flags. When it reached Carmilla, she had no way of defending herself, her illusion being destroyed.
Carmilla's eyes shot open in surprise. She sat upon her throne, unmoving... before licking her lips. "Magnificent. Such power must belong to me. . . But who was that witch?"
"His mother." Carmilla looked up to see the woman from before walk up elegantly towards her, hands held nobly in front of her as she walked, looking like dark royalty. "Hello there. My name is Salem. I see you're making yourself at home in my world WITHOUT my permission."
The two dark queens were now across each other, looking dead into the others eye, tension building between the immortal vampiress and the immortal witch.
Meanwhile, Jaune was panting, tired from both the magical onslaught and the roar he had to do in order to escape it. Then, he heard a cracking sound and looked down.
"Oh, crap."
Then, the floor broke from beneath him, Jaune yelling out in surprise as he fell into the abyss.
Salem looked around the room. "A marvelous throne room, I must admit."
"So, you are the one responsible for that marvelous werewolf?"
Salem shook her head with a giggle. "Ignorant fool. He is the King of the Beowolves, not whatever this werewolf creature is. He is among the pinnacle of life on this world of mine."
"Yours?"
"Yes. Through the use of the Relics, my powers have increased exponentially. To the point where I can bring about eternal night, allowing only a select few areas the light of the sun. The world is mine to do with as I see fit. In short... I'm this world's god."
"Interesting. So it is you I should thank for my Dark Paradise. You will be remembered as the creator of my kingdom, with a lovely statue to honor your memory."
"Oooh, you believe you can take what is mine?"
"You may be a witch, but in the end, you're still a mere human, while I am an immortal vampire."
Salem giggled before her expression turned dark and cold. "You don't know the meaning of the word immortal, girl."
Carmilla looked annoyed. "Girl? You should know your place, human," Carmilla said as she raised her hand. She held it up before lowering it again. "This is beneath me, arguing with a mere illusion."
Salem clapped. "You noticed. Very good, my dear."
"That magic is not yours alone, witch. And don't think I didn't notice your pets entering my castle."
"Oh, I don't call them pets. I call them my children. Most of them are as powerful as Jaune is, after all. Well, in terms of Grimm Ability. The fact that he's the wielder of the Sword of Destruction makes him a tad bit stronger."
"So. You sent your minions to dispose of me," Carmilla asked as she elegantly rested her cheek against her fist.
"Oh, of course not, my dear." Carmilla raised an eyebrow. "They're only here to help Jaune."
"What?"
"You see, you insulted my son. You had the gall to believe you could control him. So, I will personally make sure he kills you." Carmilla then sat up, her hands on the arms of her throne. "As he is now, it would be difficult, but there is still a chance for him to best you. Still, he can explore your castle, take back the powers you stole, and maybe grow even stronger. His siblings will aid him in their own way, and once it is time, he will find you." Carmilla tightened her grip on her throne's arm, her long nails digging into the gold and wood, making it creak. "And he will kill you."
Carmilla then slammed a fist onto the right arm of her throne, destroying it before standing straight up, looking furious. "YOU BELIEVE YOUR WEREWOLF CAN BEST ME?! ME, THE QUEEN OF THE VAMPIRES!"
"A werewolf, I do not know. But my Grimmkind, absolutely." Carmilla growled at her response. "My Grimmkind are the pinnacle of human evolution. Nothing on this world can compare to them. One day, they will replace both humanity and Faunus on this world, and on that beautiful day, I will summon the gods, and my children will slay them, making Remnant truly ours," she said with a smile. "And hopefully, finally freeing me of my curse," she said softly at the end.
Carmilla was so angry that she didn't hear her soft words as she walked down her throne, baring her shining fangs. She then stood before Salem, the Vampire Queen towering over the Grimm Queen, looking down into Salem's blood-red eyes with her own emerald green eyes. "I will not kill your son. I will BREAK him." She then bent down to get closer to Salem's smiling face. "And I will personally train him to be a good, obedient pup. He will be my greatest general, my most powerful servant, and most of all, my favorite slave. I will make him my pet. In fact, I shall kiss him, and make him into a noble. He will have the honor of being the first noble werewolf, loyal to me and me alone. Leading my army, he will SLAUGHTER your children, take over your lands, and kill you in MY name."
Salem giggled. "Oh, my son is powerful, but I doubt even he is that powerful."
"Is that right? Well, I congratulate you for angering me as much as you have." Carmilla then did something that caught Salem's attention, the ghost white beauty looking down blankly... watching Carmilla rub her stomach. "If absolutely necessary, I have no qualms with baring a progeny with one as powerful as he. Our heir will become more than powerful enough to rule the Dark Paradise, once it rips out your throat and drinks every single last drop of your blood. I assure you, Witch, your son, your matriarchy, your legacy; it will all... be... MINE."
Salem looked up at Carmilla, staring into her dark, angry eyes; before smirking. "I accept your little challenge. I look forward to seeing my son cut through that pretty, little neck of yours; watching your blood spew everywhere as your head flies through the air. I can see in your eyes that you've been bested before. You will be again by him."
Carmilla stood up, hands held elegantly before her together. "I thank you for the reminder. As inspiration, once your kingdom and all of its forces are mine, I'll have my sorcerer learn the secrets of time and space. With his magic, my army will spread far and wide through the very fabric of reality. Wallachia, America; ancient, modern, future; hunter, Dhampir, vampire; all the places I have been bested in, all the times I have been slain, and all who have taken my life; I will make then suffer. My influence will spread throughout existence itself, and I will rule over it all. With your son at my side, I will be a Dark Queen that shall rule over all. Nothing will stand in my way, witch. Nothing."
Salem's smile never went away. Instead, she began to laugh softly before it grew and grew until she burst out laughing, holding onto her side with one arm and holding her hand over her mouth with the other. Her laughter made Carmilla angrier and angrier. Salem then calmed down, letting out a content sigh before looking Carmilla right in the eye. "I truly look forward to seeing my son humiliate you, and crush your aspirations beneath his heel. With that, I bid you adieu, Carmilla." Once that was said, Salem faded away like smoke.
Carmilla glared down at where the witch once was before warping back onto her throne, her head resting on her fist. "I will end you, Salem. Mark my words, witch: Your son and all of his power will be mine."
A noble raven was perched upon a ruined part of the castle. The beautiful bird spread its glorious, dark wings and took flight. Within the light of the shattered moon, its feathers glistened in the night sky. Oh, what a lovely sight this bird of darkness was. Such a magnificent- SPLAT *pained cry*
"RAVEN'S GONNA KILL ME FOR THAT," Jaune yelled as he continued to fall.
As he was freefalling, he noticed Crocea Mors falling next to him. He grabbed his sword and stuck it back into its sheath. He then activated the greatsword and stabbed into the wall of the castle, letting out a sigh of relief before he heard a crunch. He looked to see the wall breaking off. "Dammit." And then he fell again.
Only, he fell into water. He opened his eyes to see clear within the moat, until he realized he wasn't in the castle's moat, but the very bottom of the castle itself. He could see the base of the castle, the beams holding it up, and the rubble that fell from it. He was surprised to see how clean it was.
Then, he felt something. A movement in the water. It didn't take him long to realize something else was in the water with him. He turned around in time to see a massive monster try to swallow him, but Jaune was able to catch the monster's mouth before that could happen, but it would not yield. It swam frantically through the water, trying to shut its mouth to eat Jaune, but he wouldn't let that happen.
Instead, Jaune forced its mouth open with his Grimm Arm and used the Sword of Destruction to stab it in the mouth. It roared in pain before jumping out of the water. Jaune used that opportunity to try and jump away from the monster, but as soon as he was free from its mouth, the beast whipped him with its tail, making him slam into a concrete platform.
"Ow," he went as he got up from the floor, brushing rubble off of his shoulder. He then looked to see blood in the water, the beast swimming angrily around him. Jaune looked to see that the other platform was too far to jump to, the area too far to reach with the limited stretch of his arm, and it would be too risky to swim with that beast in the water. He knew he'd have to kill it.
"Never thought I would wish for a gun," Jaune said to himself as he moved back from the water. He then felt something on his heel and looked. "Harpoons?" He then looked farther up. "By the gods. Guess I'm not the first victim of this castle," Jaune said as he saw a skeleton missing an arm and a leg, leaning against a rusted harpoon.
"Thanks for the ammo, my friend," Jaune said as he grabbed one of the harpoons. He then aimed it towards the water. Though the beast was not at the surface, he still saw the rippling waves. The beast was waiting for the right moment like Jaune was. Jaune waited and waited until he heard water splash and a screech behind him.
Instead of throwing the harpoon, he stabbed behind him without looking, hearing blood spill and a dying screech. He looked behind him to see an odd, humanoid, fish-like creature; reaching for him before it died. Using the spell the Chupacabra put on him, Jaune watched as the monster's soul was absorbed into his Grimm Arm, and for some reason, he knew its name. "A Merman?"
Jaune then sensed that its fins would be of use to him, so before it could fade away, he took off the fins and threw the bleeding corpse towards the water. That was a lucky move on his part, for moments later, the beast shot out of the water and ate the merman in one gulp.
Jaune didn't hesitate to throw the harpoon, hitting the beast right through the eyes. It screeched in agony and thrashed around before it became limp, floating dead in the water. Jaune concentrated to see its soul travel to his arm as well. "A Spawn of Leviathan? That thing looks nothing like a Leviathan. What is wrong with this castle? Wait, why isn't it vanishing like the other monsters I've killed?" Jaune then looked at the harpoon he used. "Is... that why?"
Jaune used his Grimm Arm to drag the beast towards him. He opened its mouth and yanked out its largest fang, thinking it would be useful. Then, his stomach growled. He grimaced at the thought of needing to eat such an ugly looking creature, but knew he wouldn't have much of a choice, so long as he was in this castle. 'Besides, I've literally eaten worse,' he thought.
Then, he took a bite out of the creature's side.
His eyes widened. He then began to wildly eat the creature like a starved wolf. 'Delicious,' he thought as he wiped his mouth. 'I really could have used this thing while Lyra was growing up.' He then cut off some flanks and fillets of the beast for later, making sure to not waste as much as he could of the beast.
As soon as he was done, he stood up, ready to find a way out of the area, when he heard another splash.
He looked behind him to see a Leviathan Spawn lunging right at him, mouth ready to eat him whole, too close for him to draw his sword in time. He was about to catch the beast, when he saw something shocking. A Grimm Shark lunging out of the water and chomping onto its neck, the beast screeching in pain as it was slammed into the water and dragged into the depths of the water, the area turning red with its blood, but no black smoke to be seen. It was obvious that it was killed by the Grimm.
"A-A Squalus?! Here?! How?!" Jaune then sensed the presence of a Grimmkind and turned to see a slender woman with a fit body perfect for swimming, short hair, fair skin, and aqua blue hair and eyes. The color of her hair and eyes disturbed Jaune, since it reminded him of Sarah.
"Hello, Brother," the woman said.
Jaune steeled himself and turned towards the Grimmkind. "Why are you here?"
"On Mother's orders."
"Mother?"
"She is displeased with this castle and its ruler. We're here to help you slay her."
"We?" Jaune's eyes widened. "You mean... the others? THEY'RE HERE?!"
"No need to worry. We are not your enemies. We are more like... guides. You see, Mother wants you to kill the ruler of this castle, so we're just here to make your mission easier."
Jaune gripped his fist tightly enough for the joints to crackle. "So, my 'family' is going to help me take down Carmilla?"
"Essentially. But don't expect any more than simple aid, like taking care of monsters not worth your time, giving hints, or showing you hidden areas. This is your mission, not ours. Oh, and here's a hint, there's a serpent deeper within that seems to have your elasticity. I suggest you take back what is rightfully yours," she said as she turned away.
"Wait! Who are you?"
She turned slightly to look at him. "Aquarius, King of the Squalus, and one of the Four Rulers of the Seas."
Jaune's eyes widened. "One of the what?"
"I suppose this is one of those hints. She succeeded, Brother. Mother was able to make Kings... for THEM."
Jaune's eyes widened, knowing what she meant.
"Until we meet again." With that, she dove into the water.
Jaune then looked down, horrified at what he heard. "The Tentacle, the Sea Feilong, and the Leviathan. . . Those monstrosities have Kings now?"
Jaune found the serpent Aquarius told him about. It was actually a lamia, the womanly face honestly quite lovely. Though it was a tough fight, he was able to slay it... with the help of some Squalus, the Grimm Sharks making it easier to move around the water and biting at the serpent. Though, Jaune was surprised when two more heads appeared, the heads wrapping around Jaune and sucking away at his life force, looking to be in bliss and ecstasy.
"Mm, delicious."
"So much power."
"I wish we could eat all of him."
"But the Mistress wishes for him to be alive."
"We'll only eat enough for him to be too weak to fight back against her."
"So, about a day?"
"Maybe a day and a half."
As the two heads were giggling, they didn't notice how Jaune's fangs were growing out. Then, Jaune bit the neck of the closest lamia, tearing off a chunk, killing her and freeing himself. Before the last head could react, Jaune stabbed her throat with the Sword of Destruction before swinging upward, slicing her head in two.
Jaune watched the lamias' souls travel to his arm. He then saw something else. A black mist. The mist then traveled into him. Jaune then felt a bit of his old power return, feeling a bit more complete.
Jaune then looked up towards the pillars that were too far for him to reach before. Taking some material from the lamias first, he tested his arm and saw that his elasticity had returned, escaping from the catacombs.
When he reached a certain height, he saw something. Crimson drapes. "No way."
Jaune walked through the drapes and saw the door. He cautiously opened it and saw the same shop from before. He walked in, noticing there was more inside than before.
"Hello, Sir Jaune," the Chupacabra said as he appeared out of nowhere. "Ooh, I see you have much payment. Did you bring anything of worth?"
"Uh, yeah." Jaune then placed everything he collected.
"Mm, yes. Quite nice. I can enhance your sword and your armor. Ooh, and with this crystal, I can give you something special!"
"Special?"
"Yes! I've been meaning to sell this for quite some time, but it's always been incomplete," the dwarf said as he took out a large gem with a hole in it. Then, after doing a dance, making the crystal and gem glow, they combined. "Here you go."
"What is it," Jaune asked as he took the gem.
"A Transportation Gem. As you may have noticed, this castle is quite large. That Gem will help you transport to areas you've already been to quite quickly. It can even bring you to my shop immediately should you desire to purchase more items or need a quick escape."
"Whoa. It's like magic."
"Like? Dear boy, it IS magic."
"What?"
"Don't be so surprised, my boy. You yourself are imbued with magic."
"Come again?"
"That force field around you? That 'Aura' as you call it. It has magical properties. After all, your Mother is a witch, is she not?"
"How did you-"
"You can't hide the scent of your blood, my boy. It's a shame I can't help you unlock your latent magic. I don't have anything like that. The most I can give you is this emblem." The dwarf then handed Jaune an emblem with a wolf on it.
"What is this?"
"Break it, and all the magic taken from you by the Mistress's sorcerer will return to you at once. Of course, it will make you go into a feral rage. You'll be a true werewolf: powerful, uncontrollable, but most importantly, invincible. It will only last for a moment, and once you break it, it's gone until you buy another from me, so use it wisely." Jaune looked at the emblem before pocketing it, thinking he might need it against Goth or Vodou if they really were in the castle like Aquarius said.
"Now then, time to enhance your weapons and armor. Place the rest of the material you've collected." Jaune did as such. "Ooh, you slew the lamias beneath the castle! Impressive! Very nice. Ooooooh, Leviathan Fangs. And is that, hoh, Leviathan Meat from a Spawn! impressive, Sir Jaune! To slay such a deadly and... succulent beast. I would ask for trade, but you may need this in your coming battles. It's quite nutritious."
"And delicious."
"Ah, you've experienced it. Splendid."
"But can I still purchase some more of that red potion? The Saint's Tears?"
"Of course, my boy! Of course! Now, for everything else." The dwarf did his thing.
When the light left Jaune's sword and armor, Jaune tested his gear out. "I can actually feel the new power you gave Crocea. I think I can cut through armor with this."
"You may have to prove yourself right. There is living armor in this castle, after all."
"Oh, joy," Jaune went sarcastically. "My armor also feels lighter. I think I can go even faster."
"You may not be at full speed, but you're getting faster. Your armor needs to keep up."
"Speaking of armor, how's my old set?"
"Actually, you brought in new material that could make it even greater. Sadly, it also means it will take longer. Sorry, my boy."
Jaune sighed. "It's fine. Any information?"
"Ah, well, new beasts have appeared near the castle library. They looked like werewolves, but are blacker than night, have bone armor, and blood red eyes."
"MY BEOWOLVES!"
"Ah, so they were yours. In that case, that is where you will regain your power. However, we are far from there. It is on the higher floor in an eastern tower. You'll need certain keys to reach it. There is a beast in the courtyard that may have one, and sadly, one of the Mistress's most trusted advisors in the armory may have the other."
"Why sadly?"
"Because she is a vampire as well. The Military genius, Striga. She will be formidable, even for you, my boy."
Jaune sighed. "I'll just have to risk it. Thank you. Until next time, my friend." Jaune then left.
"Until next time." The dwarf warped into a room. "Now then, where were we, my dear?"
Before him was Jaune's armor, practically glowing... with a familiar woman appearing behind it.
"Jaune," she said softly.
Jaune walked through a door to see an open courtyard. In the middle of the courtyard was a large crystal.
Jaune walked up to the crystal, not taking his eyes off of it. He then felt something. He looked down to see his Sword of Destruction shaking. He also heard... pained groans.
Jaune looked at the crystal and was about to slash it when he heard something. A loud flapping sound. He looked towards the sound, his eyes widening when he saw fire rushing towards him. He backflipped just in time to avoid the wave of flame.
He looked up to see a winged monster flying high into the sky. "WHAT THE FUCK IS THAT?! LOOKS LIKE A DAMNED WYVERN! Good thing it doesn't spout more Grimm like it does."
The wyvern flew around the courtyard, blasting fire at Jaune, who could only dodge. His wind slashes barely seemed to dent the monster's scales, and the beast was flying too fast for him to be able to use his arm. This monster was smart. It knew it had the aerial advantage, so instead of fighting Jaune on the ground, it was attacking him from above.
Jaune then got desperate and ripped out a marble column. He timed it just right and threw the column right into the monster's face, dazing it. Jaune used that opportunity to grapple onto the beast. While hanging from its neck, Jaune stabbed into the monster's wing with the Sword of Destruction, making it howl in pain. Jaune then slashed at its hide, seeing that his Relic was more than strong enough to cut through, the spewing blood being proof.
Jaune was about to continue before he was surprised by the speed the beast took off on, flying out of the courtyard and into the sky. When it was high enough, it did a barrel roll at such great speeds that Jaune lost his human grip. His claws would have stayed strong, but they were too sharp and strong. They ended up slicing through the scales, throwing Jaune off the dragon.
Jaune heard it roar in triumph as he was freefalling. He then felt heat and looked behind him. He saw that the dragon released fireballs into Jaune's direction. Jaune spun in midair to avoid the fire as much as he could. Yet, one was about to hit him point blank, Jaune not being able to dodge it at all. So, he used his shield instead. The force of the blast sent him hurtling towards the ground even faster.
Then, throwing caution to the wind, he activated the paraglide feature of his shield, the light dust helping him glide to safety. He rolled onto the courtyard safely, rubbing his sore left shoulder after it popped due to the abrupt stop the paraglider caused. It wasn't dislocated, but it still stung a bit.
But that sting was nothing compared to when the wyvern stomped onto Jaune, continuously doing so before it got bored, picked up Jaune by the head with its sharp mouth, and tossed him into a wall.
Jaune slammed into the wall, the force of which shattered his Aura. He glared at the dragon as it roared at him victoriously before taking to the skies once more. "Really starting to hate that thing. What?"
Jaune watched as black creatures attacked the wyvern in the air, the beast trying to burn, bite, and claw at whatever was attacking it.
"Wait, are those-" Something then landed in front of Jaune. "AN AWOOL?!" Jaune drew his swords and got read to fight the winged Grimm, only for it to tilt its head.
Jaune raised an eyebrow before looking around. "WHAT ARE YOU PLAYING AT, GOTH?!" No response.
Jaune looked at the Awool just in time for it to squeak. "Oh, that's how it is," Jaune went. He then reluctantly jumped onto the Grimm's back, the two flying towards the wyvern.
The wyvern was angrily snapping at the other Awools before it noticed the approaching Jaune. It then roared, disorientating the nearby monsters, making Jaune cover his ears as well. The wyvern tried to fire another fireball, but Jaune instead lunged over it, his ride not being as lucky.
The wyvern looked up, seeing Jaune fall towards it with the Sword of Destruction in hand. Before it could charge another attack, Jaune stabbed it right between the eyes. The monster gave a death roar before falling dead to the ground. Jaune was glad it was safer than it looked.
Jaune sighed in exhaustion, happy the beast was dead. He then got off and appraised the beast, wondering which was best to take.
"Not bad, hermano." Jaune pointed his blade in the direction of the voice.
"Oye, no need to be so hostile towards your brother. Shouldn't you be thanking me for the help?"
"Why did you help, Goth?"
"Ordenes de mama. Mama's orders, hermano. I'm just here to help you."
"Help me?"
"Precisamente. We won't have our rematch. Not here."
Jaune then looked down at his beat up armor.
"Adios," Goth said as he began to leave. "Oh, almost forgot, destroy that device. That crystal."
"Is that whats-"
"No, hermano. Has nothing to do with your stolen powers. But you'll want to break this. "Bye-bye," he said as he grew his massive wings and flew off. As he watched Goth disapppear he looked at the crystal and slashed it with the Sword of Detstruction. "Wonder what that did."
Jaune then heard a soft yawn. He looked at his sword. "My lady?"
He heard a sweet long yawn once more. "It's been a while, darling"
"My Lady! You're awake!"
"Not completely. Whatever is keeping me sealed has weakened a bit." Jaune looked at the crystal he just broke. "I still can't help you. I can't even take on my physical fo-. . . Jaune?"
"Hm? You don't usually say my na-"
"What are you wearing?"
"Huh?" Jaune looked down at himself. "Uh, cursed armor?"
". . . Cursed armor?"
"It's a long story."
". . . I can't leave you alone for a second, can I?"
"Eh, probably a bad idea." Lady sighed at Jaune's statement. "I wonder if Chupacabra can use this," Jaune said as he cut off a shard of the crystal.
"Chupacabra?"
"You'll see." Jaune took out the gem.
"That's a lovely-" Jaune activated it, appearing before crimson drapes. "Did... Did you just use magic?"
"Well, use, but actually no. It's the gem."
". . . This castle isn't from our world at all, is it."
"No." Jaune then walked through the drapes.
As soon as he walked into the actual shop, the Chupacabra appeared. "Ah, welcome back, Sir Jaune."
"Okay, definitely not from our world."
"My word! Your Holy Sword has a spirit intelligent enough to speak?!"
"Yeah. She's the Lady of the Lake, the Sword of Destruction."
"Ooooh, I have rarely ever seen a blade of such power. Not since Young Master Alucard's Sword Familiar!"
"Who's Alucard," Jaune asked.
"Oh, no one you need to know about, Sir Jaune. Just worry about your little scuffle against Mistress Carmilla and her servants. Anyhoo, I take it you are here to trade, maybe have some of your equipment enhanced?" The dwarf sniffed. "Oh, Wyvern Soul! Oh, you teaser, you. That can get you quite a bit here, my good sir."
"Is this of any use," Jaune asked as he placed the shard on the table.
"Ah. Hm, so that's why your sword refused to speak until now."
"You know it?"
"Indeed. It's Suppression Crystal attuned to Holy Magic. It dampens Holy relics. Full crystals can render holy powers mute. Holy water would just be water, a Holy Cross would be just a cross, and in your case, your Holy Sword is just an exceptional sword."
"Can you use the shard in any way to help her," Jaune asked.
The dwarf shook his head. "Sir Jaune, your sword is perfection. I cannot do anything to aid in strengthening it. All I can suggest is that you break the other crystal to unleash her full power, which will be quite useful against the Mistress."
Jaune sighed. "Do you at least know where the others are?"
Chupacabra gestured at Jaune. Jaune then held out his right arm, the dwarf inhaling the souls out of it.
"Darling, why are there souls in your Grimm Arm?"
"Let's just say all kinds of weird things have been happening to me ever since I entered this castle.
"Ahh. Delicious. Well, good sir, one of the best spots I would suggest is the laboratory."
"Laboratory," Jaune asked.
"It's the closest to us." Chupacabra then had a map appear. "Just leave my shop and go here, then there, go down these stairs, use this code, and you've found the lab. Just be wary. Stranger, more amazing, and more powerful monsters reside in that lab, most of them created."
"Created? Created by who?"
"Our resident scientist, Frederick Von Frankenstein."
"That's a mouthful," Jaune said. "Any other areas?"
"Well, there's always the Clocktower. You can't miss it in any area of the castle. It's the highest second only to the Mistress's keep. However, I would explore that tower last."
"Why?"
"I feel a... foreboding emanating from it. Something that will most certainly keep me at bay. Do you not sense it?"
"No."
"Lady Sword?"
"Most of my power is still sealed, dwarf."
"Ah, right, right. Well, the last area I would suggest looking in would be the catacombs."
"Of course there'd be catacombs in this castle," Jaune sighed.
"That's where the last crystal would be. Oh, and before I forget, did you get the key from the courtyard beast? You did take its soul, after all."
Jaune was silent for a bit. "Oh, crap."
The dwarf sighed. "Sir Jaune-"
"Wait! I harvested the wyvern before coming here!" Jaune then took out the materials, making the Chupacabra giddy. Jaune slumped over the desk when he took out all that he harvested. "Goddammit, am I going to have to fight my way back to the courtyard?"
"Wait a moment?" He looked at the dwarf. "This tooth is unusually hollow," he said as he tapped the fang. He then stabbed the fang into his counter, rummaged around, brought out a mallet, and swung. Though his mallet bounced off, the fang still began to crack. It then split open in half, revealing...
"Voila, one key especially for you, Sir Jaune," the dwarf said as he handed Jaune the key.
"It... was in its fang? . . . You said the other key was with a vampire named Striga, right?"
"I did."
"A FEMALE vampire?"
"Yes."
Jaune looked at the key. "I hope I don't have to cut open her chest to get this," Jaune said as he pocketed the key.
"Well, where to next, sir?"
Jaune thought for a moment before looking back at the dwarf. "My sword in her current state or Striga: who is more powerful?"
"Lady Striga, sadly."
"I see. And you said the lab was closer anyway?"
"Oh, I see. Best of luck, Sir Jaune."
"Thanks! Just keep working on my armor," Jaune yelled as he ran out.
"Keep working on it, he said." The dwarf then appeared before Jaune's armor. "I've been doing nothing BUT work on it. Every time I believe I've improved it, it gets better! Like it wants to grow stronger itself! Keeps making me want to improve it even more. Hm?"
The dwarf looked to see his tools begin to float around Jaune's armor. "Fascinating. All of my iron and metal floats around it as if in water. What an armor. Where did Sir Jaune get such magnificent metal with such a pure soul residing within it? What is the secret origin behind you, oh garb of white steel and gold, longing so much for Sir Jaune?"
Again, the spirit of the woman appeared behind the armor, again unseen by the dwarf, again saying one thing: "Jaune."
Jaune opened the massive metal doors to see a mad scientist's laboratory. He walked in to see machines spitting lightning, tubes filled with liquid, deformed monstrosities within the tubes, computers with countless equations, and tools that looked like they belonged in a torture chamber.
"And yet it's not one of the most disturbing labs I've ever seen. Thanks a lot, Watts. I still see those failed Penny models," Jaune said with a shiver.
Jaune then took a few steps forward. Before he could go in too far, he felt something on his leg. He looked to see webbing. The webbing then tripped him. Jaune nearly slammed his face onto the floor, had he not slammed his hand down. He was now just hanging upside down.
He looked up to see a monkey with a long tail, the webbing coming out from the end, the ape shrieking at him. Jaune just grabbed the web on his ankle and yanked it.
The monkey gave a surprised shriek as he shot towards Jaune. Jaune may have landed on his back, but he was still able to kick the monkey away.
Just as he jumped back to his feet, he heard the monkey cry out with an electric warble. He turned around to see why.
The ape was being kept airborne between two pillars with orbs atop, electricity blasting between them, with the monkey between them. When the electricity was gone, the ape fell to its feet, then fell to its knees, before finally falling face first. Judging from the steam coming from its frizzled, charred body, it was obviously dead.
"Should probably avoid that," Jaune said.
"Good... idea."
"My Lady? You alright?"
"Just... sleepy."
Jaune's eyes widened. "The crystal! It's nearby!" Jaune then ran into the the lab. However, he jumped back in surprise when he felt he tripped something, a blast of flame shooting out at where he would have been standing. "Great. This entire lab's a deathtrap. Just my luck."
Jaune ended up avoiding all kinds of traps: falling spiked ceilings that he had to use brute force to hold back, a pitfall full of acid, explosive darts, and even a few mechanical abominations. One of them had a hallucinogenic in their blades, which made Jaune see everything in swirling tai dai for a bit.
However, it wasn't all bad. He even used some of the traps against his enemies. He had a mechanical abomination get crushed by the ceiling, kicked a muscular monster into the acidic pitfall (and watched it melt out of morbid curiosity), and actually caught a dart to throw it at the head of a monster with steel for a head. He was surprised to see that the little dart had enough force to make the entire head of the monster explode.
He used his environment more to his advantage: throwing some of the vials of chemicals at walls and pillars to melt them away, pushing a random button that activated a trap with an unsuspecting enemy in the zone of the trap, and was even able to open some unexpected doors by typing in some codes he found on some notes all over the lab.
And all the while, Sword of Destruction was getting sleepier and sleepier before she became completely silent.
"Well, she's knocked out, and this is the last door I found around here," Jaune said as he looked at the huge metal doors and the console next to it. "Hope I can figure this out," Jaune said as he looked at the console, seeing what looked more like a puzzle game than a key pad. Jaune then began to type away, trying to recreate the symbol he's been seeing all around the lab. It took him a while, but he was finally able to do it, opening the door.
Jaune walked in to see... hanging body parts.
There were chains, bandages, tools, scrap, and blood all over the room. Jaune then saw that something was chained up at the end of the room. Something huge, easily twice his size. Jaune then looked up and saw the crystal in plain sight.
Jaune then sighed. "How can this NOT be a trap?" He then walked in, ready to face what may come.
When he got far enough into the room, the massive door slammed behind him, Jaune glancing in bored manner before lights beamed on, making Jaune wince from the brightness as he looked up with one eye closed.
"Even knowing it was a trap, you still entered? I don't know if I should commend your bravery or chastise your stupidity, werewolf," an elderly voice went.
"Not an werewolf, grandpa. Who are you?"
He scoffed. "No manners whatsoever. Didn't even introduce himself."
"Not sure there's much worth to doing that, seeing as you already know who I am."
"Mm, true. Very true, Mr. Arc. It seems you are more clever than credited for. I am Professor Frederick Von Frankenstein, Head Researcher of the Mistress's castle."
"Something tells me you're the only researcher here."
"Oh, that will change once I had you over to the Mistress. I am sure I can convince her to make you my assistant on certain days once you're her pet."
Jaune glared with a growl. "Not happening."
"What a fascinating reaction. Still, I highly doubt you can get away from this. Your Holy Sword is dormant due to being in such great proximity to this crystal, correct? Though, even if that blade were not hampered, you wouldn't be able to best my 'boy'."
"Your boy?" Jaune then looked at the chained up golem. "Oh, crap."
"Clever. You will make a fine assistant." Frankenstein then slammed a button. The entire room then began to glow blue. Before Jaune could react, he felt electricity coursing through his entire body, his muscles screaming in agony, his skin beginning to burn, and his eyes feeling like they were about to pop out.
The golem only seemed to be fairing slightly better, but he was still roaring to life.
When the light was gone, Jaune fell to one knee, groaning as smoke rose from his body, his Aura flickering a bit. He was panting a bit, but was still able to look up.
The golem was breathing heavily before he began to strain. With a grunt, he ripped his chains out of the wall before roaring at Jaune.
"Impressive. Now, incapacitate Arc," Frankenstein ordered. The golem was still a bit... before holding up his hands. "Did you not here me? That was an order, you giant bag of metal meat."
"Why... me... live?"
Jaune could actually see that Frankenstein was taken aback, despite the glare on the window from the lights.
"Why... you... make... me?"
"Are you... self-aware? . . . INCREDIBLE! THIS REQUIRES FURTHER STUDY! Study at a later date. Now... GET ARC!"
"But... how?"
"BY FIGHTING HIM, OF COURSE, YOU OAF!"
"But... But... But fighting bad." The golem then roared in pain as he held his head, sparks flying out of it.
"DON'T YOU DARE TALK BACK TO ME! I AM YOUR MAKER, AND YOU WILL OBEY ME! NOW BRING ME JAUNE ARC!"
"Me no want to fight."
"Then you want to die? It's just a press of a button, and you're easily replaceable. Don't forget that, cur."
The golem was silent before it stood back up, looking at Jaune. "Me sorry."
Jaune stared at the golem before tightening his fist out of anger. Then, with a heavy and sad sigh, he loosened his grip, looking at the golem... with a sorrowful expression.
"I am, too."
"Me no want to fight, but now... I FIGHT," the Golem roared as he threw a punch.
Jaune didn't move. He just stood his ground. His eyes then shot wide open when the fist was closing in on his face. Jaune then stopped the fist that was as big as his body his his human hand, the force of the collision causing a shock wave, the floor beneath Jaune cracking with a gale of wind rushing past him, the wind slamming into the closed doors; slightly denting them.
"Ooh, what awesome strength," Frankenstein went.
'No, something's wrong,' Jaune thought to himself. 'That... hurt. I've blocked punches from Grimmkind just as strong, if not stronger than this guy. Why did that sting?'
The golem roared as he reared back his fist, Jaune following in kind. The two then clashed fists, then again, before they threw a barrage of punches, their speed leaving afterimages of their fists.
"Speed as well as strength. The werewolf is a fine specimen. And to think he's currently weakened." Because the mad scientist didn't have his hand on the intercom, and he was behind enchanted and reinforced glass, not even Jaune's super hearing caught what the madman said.
Jaune then moved slightly to avoid the golem's fist, grabbing the massive arm. Jaune then began to spin around, lifting the massive monster. With a roar turned howl, Jaune threw the golem at the crystal, hoping to shatter it.
Instead, the golem cried out in agony when he slammed onto the crystal, dark lightning spewing out of every part of the golem before he fell to the ground.
Jaune looked at the creature in horror. "What just-"
Frankenstein laughed, gaining Jaune's attention. "Did you HONESTLY think it would be THAT easy, werewolf?! True, that is indeed the crystal. It is needed to keep that holy blade of yours in check, but I would not leave it defenseless! If you truly thought it was that simple, then you truly have the mind of a beast!" Jaune growled at the scientist, his Grimm form taking over. "Ooh, a fascinating transformation. Render him unconscious."
Frederick smirked at Jaune before he realized his creation wasn't moving. He looked down to see the creation still sitting on the ground, panting. "Did you not hear me? I told you to bring me the werewolf!"
"Me not want to fight. Do not want." He then screamed in pain.
"You DARE speak back to me, you hunk of metal and meat?! I made you to be a weapon! You're not made to lose! You're made to serve and protect and OBEY! Now, serve me, obey me, and bring. Me. THAT! WEREWOLF!"
"ENOUGH," Jaune roared. "HE DOESN'T WANT TO FIGHT ME! HE CAN'T BEAT ME! HE'S DONE! SEND OUT MORE OF YOUR MONSTERS, DAMMIT!"
Frankenstein analyzed Jaune. "Do you... pity this creature," the scientist asked with a laugh in his voice. "A werewolf with compassion. COMICAL," he laughed. He then sighed. "Werewolf, this creature is my creation. It is mine to do with as I please. Though it is fascinating that it became self-aware, it is no more than an intelligent weapon for me to aim and fire."
Jaune's eyes widened in rage, Penny and Mary coming to mind immediately, almost completely transforming, his tail bushy, his fangs and claws practically glowing. "How DARE you?! You gave him life, and you only want to make him into a weapon?!"
"That's all it will ever be, just as you will be soon enough."
Jaune then lost it. He completely transformed with a howl, impressing the mad scientist. "FREDERICK VON FRANKENSTEIN!"
"Magnificent. I have never seen a werewolf such as he," Frankenstein said with an evil smile.
Jaune then lunged towards the window, only to be grabbed by the neck. He then looked to see the golem. "Me sorry. Me no want to do this." The golem then slammed Jaune into the ground before throwing him into the wall.
Jaune fell onto his feet, wobbling a bit with a whine before shaking his head. He then looked up in time to see the golem lunging towards him like a torpedo. Jaune easily jumped over him, the golem slamming into the wall. Before the golem could recover, Jaune grabbed him by the shoulder and slammed his head into the wall three times before throwing him across the room with enough force to leave an imprint on the wall. The golem slid to the ground, falling on his butt, moaning and groaning in pain from Jaune's bestial strength; the Beowolf King standing tall.
"How curious." Jaune glared up at Frankenstein. "Why do you hold back so much, werewolf? That sword may be hampered, but it is still a holy blade. You have yet to draw the blade on the opposite hip as well. Could it be... you hope to save that creature?" Jaune glared at the scientist. "Foolish. Don't you know that I can just create more with the right material and proper time?" Jaune's eyes widened in anger once more. "Join us, and I will create a golem more suitable to one such as you. Perhaps one more... feminine?"
That really made Jaune angry. "Make more?" Penny appeared in his mind, smiling at first, before it changed to her final smile before he killed her. "More feminine?" Mary appeared in his mind then, the sight of her crying over her father's grave. "Enough. ENOUGH! I REFUSE... TO FAIL ANY MORE OF THEM," Jaune roared as he reeled back his arm. He then swung it forward with such force, he created massive blades of wind.
The blades crashed into the glass and the crystal's barrier, making Frankenstein chuckle. His smile was replaced by shock when he saw the glass crack. He then heard an alarm and looked down. 'What?! He nearly overloaded the barrier?! Impossible! Only one as powerful as the nobles could unleash such power! What kind of werewolf is he?!' Frankenstein then slammed his hand onto another button.
Jaune reeled back his arm to send out another wave of wind, only to hear the golem scream. He looked to see the poor creature holding his head, crying out in agony.
"W-WHAT ARE YOU DOING TO HIM?!"
"Given your power, I'm sure you can survive this, werewolf."
"RUN!" Jaune looked at the golem. "ME! CAN'T! CONTROL IT!" He then fell on all fours, opening his mouth to reveal he was charging an attack. Then, with a roar, he unleashed a massive beam of energy.
It was too large for Jaune to dodge. He had no choice to to try and push it back. With his bare hands, he held the powerful energy back, the beam slowly pushing him back as well.
'He's powerful enough to hold even that back? What manner of monster is he? Wait, no, he is in pain. He's reverting back to a mere human.'
Frankenstein was right. The force of the attack was turning Jaune back into a human, his rage replaced by concentration. However, the beam also shattered his Aura, his cursed armor being the only thing protecting him. However, Jaune did not yield.
Instead, he did something risky, and held the powerful beam back with his Grimm Arm. As he felt his arm begin to fade away, he grabbed the Sword of Destruction and stabbed it into the beam.
"Wh-What is this," Frankenstein asked as he watched the sword absorb the beam. Moments later, the sword was now glowing with the energy of the beam.
Jaune glared in the scientist's direction and reeled back his arm. "W-WAIT!"
Jaune unleashed the beam.
Moments later, the crystal was obliterated.
"NO! THE CRYSTAL!"
Next thing Frankenstein knew, he felt a sharp pain in his chest... and the taste of iron in his mouth. "Eh?" He looked down to see a object protruding out of his chest before looking up... and seeing Jaune glare right into his frightened eyes. "Eh?"
Frankenstein looked into Jaune's eyes in terror. "M-Mercy," he went as blood flowed down his mouth.
Jaune glared at the mad man. "You know, Frederick, you and I have something in common."
"Eh," the scientist went, a small and hopeful smile on his face, thinking he might survive. His hopes were dashed when Jaune raised his other arm, becoming that of a Beowolf.
"We're both monsters, and monsters DON'T SHOW MERCY!"
"WAIT!"
Jaune then stabbed his claws through Frankenstein's eyes, the man screaming in agony as Jaune lifted him. Jaune then gave a roar that became a howl as he ripped the man in half, throwing the corpse off of his arms. Frederick Von Frankenstein was now dead.
Jaune glared at the corpse before looking at his right arm. "So... I can absorb even human souls now, huh? . . . Actually, Frederick, you were no human. You're more of a monster than anything I've killed as of yet." Jaune then saw some doors farther down the room. "Is that an elevator?"
Jaune then heard groaning and looked to see that the golem was leaning against the wall.
Jaune jumped down and walked over to the creature. "Are you alright?"
The golem looked up at Jaune. "You... no... kill me?"
"Why should I? You didn't attack me out of your own will. You were forced to attack me. You're free now."
"Free? Me free?"
Jaune stared at the creature... and smiled, not knowing tears were welling up in his eyes. "Yeah. You're free now," Jaune said as he placed a hand on the creature's shoulder.
"Me free. Me free. Is me really free? Is there place for me?"
Jaune looked surprised before he looked down, his eyes shadowed. He then smiled and looked up with kind eyes. "Yeah. There is."
"But, me monster."
"No! No. You're no monster. If anyone here is a monster, it's me."
"But you human."
Jaune looked away sadly. "I haven't felt human for a long time. I've done... terrible things. Horrible, monstrous things. I've failed so many people, destroyed so much, and killed so many. I'm a failure of a human, but a success of a monster."
"But you save me." Jaune looked at the golem. "You protect me. You no kill me. You... hero."
Jaune smiled, tears falling down his cheeks. "Thank you."
"Me want help... but me so tired. You strong. You hurt me, so me want rest."
Jaune chuckled nervously before patting the golem's head. "Sorry about that. Get some rest. You definitely deserve it after what I put you through. I hope we can find each other again in this nightmare of a castle," Jaune said. "Goodbye, friend."
"Me friend?"
"Yeah. We're friends... Gol."
"Gol?"
"I know, it's a simple name, but it's what I want to call you. Is that alright?"
"Gol. Me Gol. Gol is you friend. Who is Gol's friend?"
"Jaune."
"Gol is Jaune's friend. Gol want help Jaune after rest. Gol WILL help Jaune."
Jaune smiled as he turned back towards where he killed Frankenstein, wanting to check out the elevator.
Before Jaune could go too far, Gol grabbed his arm. "You go towards down stair?"
"Down stair? You mean that elevator? Yeah. I think it will lead me-"
"NO GO! Lead to bad place. Evil place. Place were dead sleep... and dead walk."
Jaune's eyes widened before he got serious. "The catacombs."
"That were me made."
Jaune looked over Gol's body. "He... robbed the graves. He made you from who knows how many desecrated graves."
"Friend not go. Not safe for friend."
Jaune gently removed Gol's hand. "Don't worry, Gol. You yourself said it: I'm strong. There's something I need to destroy in the catacombs. I need to go there."
"Then... me help," Gol said as he struggled to get up, only to fall back down.
"Gol, you need rest. Just heal for now. We'll meet again, and we'll get out of this nightmare together, alright?"
Gol was quiet for a bit. "Be careful, Jaune."
Jaune nodded before he jumped into the room. He then walked towards the elevator and pushed a button. He waited for a bit. "Damn. Is there no power or something? How do I get to the catacombs no-" Jaune was surprised when he heard the whirling of the elevator, the doors opening moments later. "What just-"
"Ask and you shall receive," a familiar voice went over the intercom.
Jaune's eyes widened as he turned around. "Penelope?!"
"Don't bother looking for me. There are quite a number of secret rooms in this lab, and a lot of interesting data. I'll send some time here and download as much information as I can before leaving, while you deal with the Queen's Mission. Now, chop-chop."
Jaune tightened his grip before letting out a sigh. "Don't you dare do anything to Gol." Jaune then entered the elevator and pushed the button, taking a ride to the next crystal.
"Darling?"
"My Lady!"
"You did the right thing."
"Huh?"
"Sparing Gol."
"You... were awake for that?"
"I was. Though I don't approve of you calling yourself a monster."
Jaune sighed. "My Lady, after what I did just now, how can I call anything else?"
"That man got what he deserved. His soul was black as your arm. Though it was a grizzly death, it was not unjust. And in the end, would a monster have spared that poor creature?" Jaune was silent. "Would a monster befriend and name him?" Jaune could not respond to that either. "And most importantly, would a monster be able to wield me? To be able to hear me? To receive my love?" Jaune could not do anything else but be silent. "Jaune Salem Arc, you are many things: You are a hero, a leader, a father, a Savior, a Huntsman, and most of all, a good man. But one thing you most certainly are not is a monster. You may be a Grimmkind, you may be the King of the Beowolves, you may even be that woman's direct descendant, but you are no monster. Don't you dare think otherwise, my darling."
Jaune was quiet for a bit before he smiled. "My Lady... thank you. As always, you always know what to say."
"Such is the duty of your partner."
Jaune chuckled. "I always seem to get the best partners, don't I? Now, let's bring this long night to an end, shall we?"
"Oh, absolutely."
As the two rode the elevator down to the catacombs, something was happening within the lab.
Gol was leaning against the wall still, seemingly asleep, when he heard something. He looked to see some of the stray, escaped experiments running towards him. He was still too tired to even move. He had no way to defend himself. He would die at their feral claws.
"Gol... sorry... Jaune." Gol then submitted to his fate.
He was then surprised when he heard slashes, and saw the monsters fall to the ground in pieces before looking back up. "Who you?"
The sound of heels clicked towards Gol before stopping in front of him. Then, someone leaned towards him. "A friend of Jaune's. My name is Penelope," she said with a smile. "And I'm here to make sure you can help him with his mission."
Jaune chugged down a Saint's Tears before throwing down the empty bottle, the glass turning into red smoke, Jaune's Aura fully restored as his wounds disappeared.
"I really wish you wouldn't drink that so often," Lady said.
"It's the only 'medicine' I've got. The monsters in this castle are insanely powerful. Even with my large Aura Pool, some of them can shatter my Aura in just a few hits. I need this stuff."
"It still disturbs me. It looks too much like human blood."
Jaune sighed. "I don't blame you for thinking that. If that wasn't bad enough, it's thick in texture, tastes like iron, and even SMELLS like it. I feel more like a vampire than a wolf when I use this stuff. Is this what it's like to be Goth?"
"If this Goth is one of us, then yes."
Jaune's eyes widened in shock as he turned around to see Carmilla standing behind him in the elevator.
"I must say, it's almost attractive to watch you partake in the Saint's Tears. You look like a true vampire. I may even personally turn you once you're mine."
Jaune stood tall. "Another reason to take you down."
"Oh, aren't you curious at all? Don't you want to see how powerful you are when you have the power of nobility mixed with your werewolf blood?"
"Not particularly. I'm more interested in making sure you don't continue Remnant's nightmare in my mother's stead."
"Mm, shame. Well, you will fail in the catacombs anyway."
Jaune glared at the vampiress. "Is that right?"
"My sorcerer has a surprise for you. You are indeed powerful, Arc, but not even you can withstand what comes next." Carmilla then laughed seductively and darkly as she vanished.
"That wasn't ominous at all," Lady said.
"Whatever she has prepared, I'll be ready." The elevator then reached its stop when Jaune said that.
When the doors opened and Jaune walked out, his eyes shot open. He then covered his mouth as he gagged before he vomited.
"DARLING?! WHAT'S WRONG?!"
"It's... rancid... down... here. Urgh. The smell. It's overwhelming. What is this? I've been to graveyards before. Been surrounded by corpses before. But this? This is awful. I never thought my enhanced senses would be used against me this way," Jaune said as he stumbled down the hall, the squelch of corpses beneath his boots.
When he walked past a four-way corridor, he jumped back to avoid a green liquid. He watched as the liquid dissolved the rotting flesh beneath it. Jaune then heard the slow and heavy footsteps of a creature, the groans echoing through the hall. Jaune drew the Sword of Destruction and stabbed through the wall, feeling he struck the monster before ripping his sword out of the wall. The plop of a body followed soon after.
Jaune walked around the corner, hand over his nose and mouth, looking down to see a zombie with a missing lower jaw, the same green liquid from before flowing down its mouth. "Oh, sick. It tried to vomit on me."
"Darling, look."
Jaune looked up. "Red drapes? No. No way." Jaune walked through the drapes and saw a familiar door. "You gotta be kidding me," he said as he moved his hand.
When he realized his mistake, he was about to cover his mouth again before realizing something. "It smells...clean in here." Jaune then opened the door.
As soon as he saw that familiar counter, his old friend appeared. "Welcome to my shop, Sir Jaune."
Jaune looked around before looking at the Chupacabra. "How... are you here?"
"Hm? Magic, of course."
"I-Is the magic also why it doesn't stink in here?"
"Oh, absolutely. You can't run a business if the store has a horrid smell. In fact, since you are currently in the catacombs, I have just the thing for you, my good werewolf."
"I'm not a-"
The dwarf disappeared.
"Why do I even bother," Jaune asked as he slumped down.
He then appeared. "Tada!"
"A face mask?"
"Of course!"
"A bit simple, don't you think?"
"Oh, worry not. It's enchanted. It repels all foul odors, but you'll be able to track your enemies and locate hidden treasure like you were able to before. Plus, it goes nicely with your armor. Oh, speaking of which, have anything I can use to enhance your equipment?"
Jaune placed everything he had collected. The dwarf used all the usable materials and needed amount of souls to enhance Jaune.
"Hm? HM?! HMMMM?! DO I SPY WITH MY LITTLE EYE THE SOUL OF FREDERICK VON FRANKENSTEIN?!"
"Uh, yeah?"
"GIMME-GIMME-GIMME!"
"Whoa! Calm yourself, man!"
"Oh! Oh. Apologies. I've wanted that soul for the longest time. Ooh, but I have nothing of equal value. Curses. I swear to you, I will have the perfect thing to trade next you- OH! YOUR ARMOR! THE ONE STILL IN THE SHOP!"
"Is it done," Jaune asked in excitement, his Beowolf ears popping up.
"Oh, dear, no." They slumped down. "I swear, the more I work on it, the more powerful and valuable it becomes. The compensation you gave me before won't be nearly enough to cover it."
"WHAT?!"
"But fret not, that man's soul is more than valuable enough. Just give me time, and it will be ready to trade."
Jaune sighed. "Fine. I'll see you later. Thanks for the mask," Jaune said as he walked out.
"Be safe," the dwarf said as Jaune left. He then sighed. "What a shame. But a soul that valuable deserves fair trade." He then appeared before the armor. "And you will be more than valuable for it, my dear masterpiece."
"Please."
"Hm?" The Chupacabra looked up to see the woman's spirit for the first time.
"I want to see Jaune."
Moments passed.
Then, the Chupacabra screamed his little head off before falling on his back, unconscious from shock.
"Ooh. Sorry," the spirit went.
"Damn, this mask works wonders," Jaune said as he walked down the hall, back fist to his left without looking, crushing in the skull of a lunging zombie.
"And I'll admit... it looks good on you."
"Thank you, M'Lady. Still, I kinda expected to see more undead. They seem so... lethargic," Jaune said as he walked past a zombie that weakly reached for him before it just gave up.
"It is strange."
"Mm." Jaune then stopped as he sniffed the air. "Oh, no."
"What's wrong?"
"I recognize that smell." Jaune then rushed through the corridors. He actually pushed a zombie out of his way before he skidded to a stop. "Well, that certainly verifies my suspicion."
"A pack of Apathies," Sword of Destruction went.
"And where there's Apathies not affecting me..." Jaune then walked around a bit more before punching a casket. When it crumbled, he wasn't surprised to see what he found.
Acedia then groaned before she opened her eyes lazily. "Oh, Jaune. Hey."
"Acedia. I knew it was you. Why are you here?"
"Hm? Oh, right. Mother wanted us to help you in any way we could, and *yawn* this was the best way for me to do so. The undead are not causing you any trouble, right? You're standing on a zombie's head right now, aren't you?"
Jaune looked down to see she was right. The undead slowly reached towards Jaune's ankle, only to continuously give up. Jaune just applied pressure and crushed it's head beneath his boot.
"Mm. Brutal. Anyway, I'm going back to sleep," Acedia said as she rolled onto her other side.
Jaune sighed. "Do you at least have some info about this area?"
Acedia yawned again. "There's a double door past my Apathy a few meters down. Some kind of magic is preventing them from going anywhere close to the door. That might be interesting to you."
"Do you feel anything, M'Lady?" Jaune waited for an answer before looking down at his sword. "My Lady?" Jaune then took out the Sword to use his tried-and-true method to see if she was awake. He kissed the face of the blade near the base of the hilt, which is basically kissing her on the lips in her freed spirit form.
"Yup, she's asleep," Jaune said as he sheathed his sword. "Guess that's where one of the last crystals is."
"Good luck," Acedia yawned.
"Thanks," Jaune said emotionlessly before walking away.
It didn't take him long to find the door. It took a bit of strength, but he was able to push the door open. 'Why was that hard? I get the floor is basically rotten meat, but I still should have been strong enough to nearly effortlessly push those doors open.'
When Jaune walked in, and was honestly surprised to see how clean the room was. His surprise turned to disgust when he saw several coffins with skeletons inside, leading up to a robbed man chanting in front of the crystal.
"Well, you're nice and creepy." The man did not stop. "Given that you're not dead and smell human, I'm willing to guess you're one of Carmilla's pets."
The man stopped chanting. "Charming." The sorcerer turned towards Jaune. "A pleasure to finally meet you. I am Hastile, dark priest in service to Lady Carmilla; a role you will soon enough play with gratitude, werewolf."
"Sorry. I'm not much of an actor," Jaune said mockingly. Jaune then looked at the coffins. "Mind explaining the décor?"
Hastile looked down at Jaune darkly before he began to float. "It pains me to say this, but Lady Carmilla has been bested a number of times." When he said that, the coffin doors shut close. "As her servants, it is our duty to make sure no such thing ever occurs again. That is why I must see how powerful you truly are. That, and it's the best way to bring you back to Her Majesty."
The coffins began to glow.
"Think of it as your initiation and test. The more you slay, the more you are worthy to serve her." The coffins began to rumble. 'And best of all, these copies are as powerful as the originals they are based on. No one child of the night can even dream of besting at most three, let alone all,' Hastile thought with a dark smirk on his face.
The coffins then exploded, Jaune catching one of the shards before it could even reach his head. The smoke cleared to reveal heavily armed warriors, most of them holding whips.
"Behold, the bastards that slew our beloved Queen: Simon Belmont, Richter Belmont, Maria Renard, Nathan Graves, Gabriel Belmont, Shanoa, Sypha Belnades, Cornell, and of course those accursed dhampirs, Alucard and D."
Jaune looked at what was in front of him. "Ten on one. Well... I might be in trouble."
Hastile chuckled evilly. "Do put on a good show. Our Lady is watching us."
Carmilla was indeed watching, her legs crossed, her head resting elegantly on her fair hand, seductively sipping out of a golden glass cup filled with blood; smiling at the show about to unfold before her.
"And before you get any ideas..." Hastile pointed his palm at the crystal, several barriers now whirling around it.
"Tch," Jaune went.
Hastile smirked at Jaune. "That Sword at it's full power would be too effective on my creations. I can't let you end the show too quickly. Now... TEAR HIM ASUNDER!"
Jaune grunted after he was tackled. He was able to skid to a halt, grapping against his attacker, seeing it was Cornell. "Another werewolf, huh? I can handle-"
Jaune started to convulse as he was being shocked from behind by Sypha. He was then tackled and flown into the ceiling by a Phoenix. As he fell, he felt each of his limbs being wrapped before he was slammed into the ground. He groaned as he got back up, his Aura flickering, before he noticed the shadows beneath him. He jumped out of the way just in time to avoid being stabbed by Alucard and D. He then readied his shield in time to prevent being slashed by Shanoa's wind, but the force sent him flying back.
When he lowered his shield, he looked to see that he was surrounded by all ten warriors.
"Yeah, this might be harder than I thought."
Carmilla giggled as she took another sip, sitting upon her throne as she smiled at the look on Jaune's face. "Continue entertaining me, my dear. Show me the power you hold... my newest General of the Night," she said as she held up her glass towards the portal showing Jaune's fight.
Jaune was yelling before he slammed into the wall, rubbing his head as his Aura flickered. "Did I really just get slammed into by a freaking giant turtle?!"
"HOLY DRAGON!"
Jaune looked up with a raised eyebrow, only for his eyes to pop open when he saw a roaring dragon behind Maria. "You gotta be kidding me."
The dragon took a deep breath. Jaune was about to jump out of the way, but his arms and legs were wrapped by the Belmonts and Graves. Jaune tried to get out of the whips, but they were all too tight, especially Gabriel's spiked Vampire Killer. Jaune then felt heat and looked to see the dragon about to blast its flame.
Jaune then took a deep breath. "Oh, gods, this is risky. But it's better than doing nothing."
The dragon unleashed its fire breath.
When it reached half way towards Jaune, his eyes shot open, red and black as his mother's. He then unleashed the mightiest howl he could muster. The howl clashed with the breath, creating enough force to send Cornell, Sypha, and Shanoa flying. Even Hastile had to put up a barrier against the force of the clash.
"WHAT POWER!"
Carmilla giggled. "Indeed," she said as she took a sip from her glass.
Jaune's howl was in a stalemate with the flame before he forcibly added more power to his attack, the howl pushing the flame back until it reached the dragon. When it did, an explosion that engulfed the dragon and Maria occurred. The copy's dying cry proved that Jaune only had nine to deal with now.
Jaune then coughed up blood, panting from the powerful attack. "That hurts."
Jaune felt his arms being pulled, looking to see Nathan and Gabriel pulling on their respective whips. Jaune retaliated by pulling back, struggling with the two false hunters. As he did, his Aura finally shattered, Gabriel's whip now digging into his wrists. However, with a battle cry, Jaune pulled down on the whips with enough force to make the owners fly towards him. He didn't hesitate to stab through the heads when they were about to collide with him, their bodies vanishing.
Before it fell, Jaune caught Gabriel's Vampire Killer and swung it to try and hit Simon and Richter. Those two ducked and jumped away from Jaune's range.
Jaune growled as the chain retracted back to the cross, Jaune thrusting the cross downward thinking he needed to do so to keep the chain in. When he heard a clank, he looked down to see a spike at the bottom of the cross. "Whoa."
Jaune looked to see Simon closes to him and lunged towards the clone, preparing to stab him with the stake.
Instead, Jaune was tackled by Cornell, dropping the battle cross. After rolling a bit, Cornel pinned Jaune to the ground and bit into his shoulder, making Jaune scream in pain. As Cornel was tearing into his shoulder, Jaune readied his claws and stabbed into Cornell's neck. The attack made Cornell released Jaune's neck so he could howl in pain.
As soon as he did, Jaune fully transformed and bit onto Cornell's snout. Though Cornell tried to claw Jaune off of him, Jaune was still able to rip Cornell's snout off before kicking the fake off of him. The copy faded away, showing he was dead.
Before Jaune could try to get up, he was being lifted by a small wind before it whirled into a twister, the glyph beneath it growing larger and brighter. Jaune's surprised scream was being drowned out by the howl of the wind, which was becoming colder and icier with the help of Sypha's magic. Before long, the green wind turned white as ice flew with it, Jaune's screams disappearing completely.
Shanoa then stopped her spell, the wind dissipating to reveal a frozen Jaune, hidden by the white of snow. The ice sculpture then fell to the ground, but it did not shatter.
"Finish him. The Queen can bring him back as a vampire anyway," Hastile said.
"Four warriors. Impressive," Carmilla said as she sipped. "He passed with flying colors. Shame he has to die, but I'll personally turn him," Carmilla said as she was about to take another sip. CRACK. "Hm?"
Jaune's sculptor began to crack before it shattered. The fakes shielded themselves from the shards, but Sypha and Shanoa were then slashed in half.
Carmilla was shocked. "Incredible. He can turn ice to armor. No werewolf has that kind of ability," she said as she looked at Jaune's current form. His claws were lengthened with ice. He also had sharpened ice at the end of his elbows, above his kneecaps, and on the tips of his hair. Over his armor was white ice, dangerously spiked.
"Thanks for the power-up."
"What is this," Hastile yelled.
"My Beowolves have a unique variant in the freezing cold. They evolved to turn the freezing cold of Solitas into armor and to sharpen their claws. For simplicity's sake, let's address them as Solitas Beowolves, meaning this is my Solitas Mode."
"The cold has no effect on him. In fact, it STRENGTHENS him. . . "Carmilla laughed. "Incredible! Such a versatile new pet," she said as she clapped her hands.
"Now then, let me thank you for the upgrade." Jaune then swung both of his arms, creating an icy cold wind slash racing towards the crystal. He sucked his teeth when the crystal brushed it off.
"Did you think it to be easy?" Jaune glared at Hastile. "Don't get cocky because of a small increase of power. You still have four warriors left."
Jaune looked at Simon, Richter, Alucard and D.
"Okay, four against one. . . I can work with those odds," Jaune said as he got ready for the next part of his fight.
Jaune looked at the four warriors in front of him, the vampire hunters at his left and the dhampirs on his right. He then looked up to see the crystal, sucking his teeth when he saw how far it was, especially since Hastile was floating near it. He then looked at his new claws, wondering how long the ice would last before looking back at his enemies.
It was fortunate that he did, since Simon tried to whip him.
Jaune bent back in time to avoid the strike, jumping away in time to avoid Richter's whip as well. When he landed, he raised his hand out of reflex, his claws blocking a strike from Alucard. Jaune's eyes widened when he heard the ice begin to crack. He didn't have time to worry about it, since he was parrying Alucard's lightning fast strikes. He then had to duck to avoid D's slash from behind before jumping to avoid a stab from Alucard.
Unfortunately, as Jaune was in the air, Simon wrapped his whip around his ankle and slammed Jaune into the ground. Since his Aura was gone, and he had no ice armor on his face, he felt the full brunt of the impact. Simon then swung Jaune towards Richter, who, with his whip wrapped around his fist, punched him right in the face. Jaune bounced across the ground before rolling and slamming into the wall.
He groaned as he pushed himself up, blood dripping from his nose. "Ow. Seems these guys were the toughest of the bunch. Perfect."
Richter's whip then wrapped around Jaune's neck, choking him as Jaune was swung around. When Jaune was released, he was flung towards Alucard and D, who swung their swords at the same time. The world seemed to stop completely... before moments later, blood spewed from all over Jaune's body, the man coughing up blood before he slammed into the wall. He slid down, landing on his butt, as more blood pooled out of him.
Carmilla smirked at the sight. "He is beaten," she said before taking another sip.
The four warriors walked towards Jaune, checking to see if he really was beaten. D and Alucard stopped, making Simon and Richter look back at them. The two dhampir could hear Jaune's labored breathing. Simon and Richter reacted when they heard Jaune rustling, taking their stances as they looked at him.
Jaune then took out the emblem the Chupacabra gave him, remembering the little monster's words: "Break it, and all the magic taken from you by the Mistress's sorcerer will return to you at once. Of course, it will make you go into a feral rage. You'll be a true werewolf: powerful, uncontrollable, but most importantly, invincible. It will only last for a moment, and once you break it, it's gone until you buy another from me, so use it wisely."
Hastile's eyes widened. "The magic emanating from that emblem!"
Carmilla looked surprised. "That looks just like Dracula's emblem, save for replacing a dragon with a wolf. Is he going to-"
"KILL HIM BEFORE HE BREAKS IT!" The warriors charged at Jaune.
It was too late.
Jaune shattered the emblem, waiting for something as the warriors got closer. He sighed when he thought it was a dud.
Then, his eyes widened.
He was then surrounded by darkness, the sound of wolves howling echoing throughout the room. Jaune then gave a battle cry that turned into an ear piercing how before he was swallowed by the darkness. When the shadows dissipated, all there was left was a massive Beowolf twice Jaune's size, eyes glowing completely red, fangs glowing as white as shining pearls, muscles as large as human heads, and fur sticking up menacingly; vibrating as if every single hair were alive.
Carmilla was actually shaking as she saw the sight. She then gulped... before she smiled. "Magnificent."
She wasn't the only one who was amazed. Through the eyes of a Seer, Salem sat on her throne as she watched her son's battle, smiling at his transformation. "Beautiful."
Hastile, unlike the two queens, was shaking in terror. "W-What matter of black magic is it. I've never felt power this terrible since... since DEATH! I am Shaft's superior in every way, yet even with that old magician's help, I doubt I could best this monstrosity! B-BELMONT'S! DHAMPIRS! SLAY HIM! KILL HIM AS IF HE WERE THE FALLEN COUNT DRACULA HIMSELF! NOW!"
Simon and Richter charged at Jaune.
Hastile smirked. 'It was no mere boast that I am superior to Dracula's Dark Priest! Shaft may have been able to remake the Legendary Three Warrior's to fight Young Master Alucard, but they were mere shadows in comparison to the true warriors! But I was able to recreate these warriors down to their very souls! All their strengths, skills, powers, and abilities are their own! The only thing I couldn't recreate was the Holy Vampire Killer! I could only recreate Gabriel Belmont's Vampire Killer from his timeline! Still, it matters not! Simon and Richter are considered two of the mightiest Belmonts! Simon himself slew Dracula TWICE! You have no chance of victory, werewolf! SUBMIT,' he mentally screamed before he laughed maniacally.
SLASH
"Eh?"
Jaune was behind Simon and Richter, his claws outstretched and at either side, as if he had just swung. Then, moments later, Simon and Richter's bodies were slashed to pieces, their blood spewing before their bodies disappeared.
"Eh? But... that's not possible," Hastile said with a terrified smile.
Carmilla then accidently crushed her glass, the virgin blood and her blood dripping through her fingers, a wide smile on her face. "He slew two of the mightiest Belmont's in any timeline within the blink of an eye. Such power."
Jaune then looked up at the crystal and lunged towards it.
Hastile looked at Jaune with his terrified smile before it grew into a maniacal one. He then laughed as he pointed at Jaune. "FOOL! ONLY HOLY MAGIC COULD POSSIBLY PEIRCE THROUGH THAT! ONLY THE TRUE VAMPIRE KILLER OR YOUR SWORD AT ITS TRUE POWER COULD HOPE TO BREAK THROUGH IT! WITHOUT YOUR PRECIOUS BLADE, YOU CAN'T HOPE TO BREAK THROUGH IT, BEAST!"
Jaune then roared as he slashed right through the first barrier.
Hastile's eyes went blank. "What?"
Jaune then slashed through the second one, then the final one, before shattering the crystal into dust with one punch. He then jumped off the wall and gave a victorious howl that shook the entire catacombs.
Hastile watched as the crystal's dust sprinkled to the ground before he looked at the howling Jaune.
"What... ARE you," he asked shakily, quietly... and scaredly.
The snarling Jaune glared at his last two enemies, Alucard and D. As the two dhampir readied their swords, Jaune got ready to charge before his eyes shot open at what sounded like his own heartbeat. He then stumbled before quickly reverting back into a human, down to his blue eyes and blonde hair, panting out of exhaustion.
'It will only last for a moment.'
'Damn. He wasn't kidding. I wished he would have mentioned how exhausted I'd feel afterwards,' Jaune thought. He then looked up. 'Crap. Two of the toughest warriors and I'm exhausted. This won't end well,' Jaune thought as he stood back up.
'Yes it will.'
Jaune's eyes widened. 'M'LADY! YOU'RE AWAKE!'
'Well, you did shatter the crystal while you were in that ghastly form of yours. Now, let's end this, shall we?'
Jaune smirked as he drew both the Sword of Destruction and Crocea Mors in greatsword mode, getting ready for the fight against the dhampirs. 'Let's.'
Alucard and D walked around Jaune, the Grimmkind keeping his guard up. When Alucard was behind Jaune, he charged at him.
Jaune was able to block his stab with his Crocea, the massive blade protecting Jaune's back. Jaune then kicked Alucard away before clashing with D, the Sword of Destruction shining brightly from the clash.
Before D's sword could shatter, he held up his left hand in front of Jaune's face, the face on his palm inhaling. Jaune felt more of his energy being drained. He then placed the face of the Crocea Mors on D's chest before activating the Gravity Dust, sending D flying.
Jaune stumbled due to the energy steal and was stabbed through his right Grimm Arm by Alucard because of this, making him drop Crocea. Before Jaune could do anything, Alucard flung him away from his old sword, Jaune skipping across the ground like a stone across water. He was able to land on his feet and skid to a halt.
When he looked up, he saw D lunge at him. Jaune was able to block the thrust before commencing to duel with D, basically fencing with him with his left arm, not being able to touch the Sword of Destruction with his Grimm Arm. However, he was about to slash D with his arm, only for Alucard to slash his arm right off. Jaune gritted his teeth in pain, trying not to let out a scream before he jumped away.
He didn't have time to look at his arm since Alucard and D were charging at him, but he was lucky enough to feel something hit his heel. Taking a chance, he threw the Sword into the air and kicked up whatever he felt. He then caught it and swung his arm, seeing either Simon's or Richter's whip wrap around Alucard's face. Jaune didn't hesitate to yank at the whip with all his strength, causing Alucard to spin in midair.
He then dropped the whip and caught the Sword, once again dueling D. When the two were at a stalemate, D tried to use his hand again, but this time, Jaune took a gamble and bit D's hand. Before D could react, Jaune did something surprising and slashed D's entire right arm off. Then, keeping up with his momentum, Jaune stabbed D through the heart.
The dhampir coughed up blood out of shock and surprise before looking into Jaune's eyes, who spat out his arm as he glared back into D's eyes. Jaune's gaze softened when he saw D... smile. He could almost hear D's words: "Thank you."
Then, D vanished, along with his severed arm, the only thing remaining to be his sword.
Before Jaune could think about what he had done, Alucard stabbed his left bicep and slashed down to his hand, making him drop the Sword of Destruction and effectively crippling his hand before kicking him away. When Jaune landed, he looked at his arm, seeing that it would only be fixed by his Aura Amplification, which can't be done without any of his Aura, or the Saint's Tears.
Seeing no other option, he reached for the blood-flavored drink, only to be struck by Alucard moving at awesome speeds. Jaune was too exhausted and beaten to dodge or block the attack, meaning he was forced to endure every hit. Then, he felt an especially hard punch to the jaw, feeling not just his jaw, but his entire skull crack. The force of the attack sent him skidding far from either one of his swords, unmoving.
Hastile gave a small, scared chuckle before it grew into a full on laugh. "YOU'VE LOST, WEREWOLF! YOU HAVE NOTHING LEFT! YOU MAY HAVE SLAIN MOST OF MY WARRIORS, BUT I STILL STAND VICTORIOUS! NOW I CAN BRING YOU TO OUR QUEEN, WHERE SHE CAN DO WITH YOU AS SHE PLEASES! WE WIN, ARC! WE WIN!" He then laughed madly.
Jaune's ears were ringing. Everything hurt. He could taste his own blood flowing out of his mouth. As he opened his eyes, everything he saw was blurry at first, until something came into focus. When he saw what was in front of him, his eyes widened, seeing one last chance at victory.
"Huh," Hastile went as he saw Jaune slowly getting back up. "What is this? Do you truly wish to continue? YOU HAVE NOTHING LEFT! BOTH YOUR MORTAL BLADE AND HOLY BLADE ARE FAR FROM YOU! YOU DON'T HAVE THE STRENGTH OR THE LIGHT OF THE MOON TO AID IN YOUR TRANSFORMATION! MOST OF ALL, YOU ALREADY USED YOUR ALL IMPORTANT EMBLEM! EVEN WITH THAT RIGHT ARM OF YOURS, YOU HAVE NO CHANCE OF BESTING MY ALUCARD! SURRENDER, ARC!" Hastile sighed as he smirked down at Jaune. "Accept your defeat with dignity."
Jaune huffed a few times, blood still dripping from his mouth and left arm before he stood straight back up, took a deep breath, and glanced towards Hastile and Alucard over his shoulder, his right arm hidden by his large frame.
Hastile chuckled. "Very well. Finish him."
Alucard charged at Jaune, time slowing down at the event. Moments passed before Jaune shocked Hastile.
"WHAT?!"
He was shocked when he saw Jaune strike Alucard in the face with a spiked chain whip.
Hastile then took a good look at Jaune. "Gabriel Belmont's battle cross?! HIS Vampire Slayer," Hastile yelled as he saw Jaune take Gabriel's stance, the spirit's battle cross in hand.
Hastile then growled angrily. "DO YOU HONESTLY THING YOU CAN USE THAT PROPERLY, ARC?!"
"Guess I'm going to find out," Jaune said. He then swung his arm, using the cross properly enough to land a surprise hit on Alucard. The dhampir quickly recovered and charged at Jaune. Jaune tried to use the cross, but Alucard was able to dodge the chain each and every time. When the chain came flying down, Alucard jumped to avoid the crushing force, lunging towards Jaune.
As soon as the chain retracted back to the cross, Jaune used the weapon to block Alucard's thrust. The clash between the two caused a sonic boom that sent the two flying away from each. When Alucard landed, he charged at Jaune, thrust at the ready. When Jaune stopped skidding, he readied the Vampire Killer's stake and charged at Alucard.
Time slowed down as the two reached each other, sword and stake aimed at the other's heart.
Then... the sound of stabbing and blood spewing was heard.
Jaune was face-to-face with Alucard, looking the dhampir right in the face. Jaune then groaned. "Damn, I'm bad at this," he says as it is revealed that Alucard was able to stab him through his chest, right below his left shoulder. Fortunately, it was just above his pectoral, meaning the blade wasn't close enough to Jaune's heart.
On the other hand, Jaune was able to stake Alucard through the heart, the stake sticking out of his back.
Jaune watched as Alucard looked down at the wound... and smiled. Before Jaune could react, Alucard grabbed his head and brought him into what looked like a hug.
"Thank you." Jaune's eyes widened when he heard Alucard speak.
"You... must not... fall... noble. . . Hunter." Alucard then let out a death sigh before he went limp.
Jaune fell to one knee and held Alucard in his arms, watching the dhampir fade away. Jaune closed his eyes before he fully faded away, staring at the area he was once at. Jaune then sighed, both in relief and in depression. This was one of his most bittersweet victories to date.
As Jaune stayed as he was, Hastile was shaking in terror. 'A-All ten. He slew all ten. That's not possible. H-He's not even a monster. He's a devil,' Hastile thought in horror. He then raised his hand. 'I can't let that abomination live,' he mentally screamed.
'Enough, Hastile.'
His eyes shot open. 'B-But, Your Majesty! He-'
'Has earned the right to live. Return to my side at once.'
'Please reconsider, My Queen!'
Hastile then shivered. 'ARE YOU TALKING BACK TO ME, LITTLE MAGICIAN?' Every word terrified the Dark Priest.
'F-Forgive me, Majesty.'
'Return. To. My. Side.' With that, Hastile vanished.
Jaune looked towards where Hastile was and sighed before looking at the battle cross. He stared at it before putting it into his cape. He then looked at his left arm and saw it was beginning to heal thanks to the healing factor of the Grimm. However, it would take too long to rely on his Grimm Abilities, and he still had some Saint's Tears left.
He took out a bottle and chugged it down. He grimaced as usual, still not liking the taste. However, his eyes shot open as he felt an intense burning in his arm. It was enough to make him fall to one knee, groaning in pain as he looked at his arm, watching as his own blood seemingly stitched the wound shut, the skin healing before the armor's magic repaired itself, hiding the nonexistent scar.
Jaune then flexed his arm and fingers to see his arm was fully healed. "What just happened? Is this stuff... really THAT affective?" Jaune then got up and grabbed his Crocea Mors. He drew the sword to check on it and smiled. "Didn't get shattered this time, eh, old friend? Then again, none of those magic users made a flaming sword like Cinder does, did they?" He then sheathed Crocea and placed it back on his belt.
Finally, he grabbed the Sword of Destruction. "Are you alright, M'Lady?"
"I'm not the one who fought ten warriors, had his left arm sliced open, and was beaten nearly to death."
"Good point," he said as he holstered the sword and walked towards a different door in the room.
"That had to be one of your most disturbing battles. We have to put an end to this. This Carmilla can't be allowed to roam free if she has subordinates that can use magic like that."
"I agree, but I can't go after her just yet. I don't have all of my powers back. I'm not as fast or strong, and I can't summon my Beowolves," he said as he went through the door. "I can use you to the fullest now that those crystals are gone, but taking on Carmilla without all of my powers is a terrible idea."
"As much as I hate you relying on that woman's power, I can't help but agree with you. Carmilla isn't someone you can take on casually. You need all of your powers."
"Guess all that's left is to find this Striga in the armory and get that key to the library. Take back my strength from her and whoever has my Beowolves, then we can finish this."
"Just one question, Darling."
"Hm?"
"Why did you keep that battle cross?"
Jaune stopped. "I... I honestly don't know. It just felt right to keep it. It might be useful."
"At the very least, you can stake that vampiress with it."
Jaune chuckled as he continued. "That I can, M'Lady. Oh, an elevator." Jaune entered the elevator.
As he rode the elevator, Jaune smacked his lips and groaned. "I can still taste it."
"I really don't like that drink," the Sword said. "I feel an uncomfortable magic from it. It doesn't help that the same magic is pooling within you."
"Oh, great. I have mysterious magic inside of me. Can you cleanse me or something?"
"Unfortunately, not right now. The magic of this castle won't let me do so. My guess that the magic within you is the same magic keeping this castle standing. Destroy the castle, and that magic will disappear."
"Right then. Let's take down the 'Queen' first before we bring this castle down to the ground."
"Agreed."
The elevator then stopped, the doors opening.
Jaune whistled. "If this isn't the armory, then I don't know what is. Ruby would think she was in paradise," Jaune said as he walked in.
He couldn't help but analyze some of the weapons. "Hm, this kinda reminds me of you, Robyn." He placed the crossbow down and explored the armory a bit more.
"Guns in a medieval castle like this?" Jaune held the guns up. "Hm, I feel like James Ironwood, holding onto these. You'd probably slap me silly for saying that, Winter." He put the guns down.
He then found a javelin, a xiphos sword, and a shield grouped together. "Oh, Pyrrha. I wish you knew how much I missed you, even to this day. What I wouldn't give for you to be at my side again. You always knew what to say and do. You were my best friend... I just wish I was smart enough to see you could have been more back then." He walked away from the display.
He then found a pair of wind and fire blades with a dagger beneath them. "Ren. I'm sorry. I never should have... I made the exact same mistake you did in Solitas, didn't I? Forgive me... brother." He walked away.
He found a hammer. "Nora, I see so much of you in Lyra. You'd be proud of your little pancake. I'll take care of her. I promise. Just... keep watching over us, okay... sis?" He walked away.
He found a scythe. "You'd be geeking out over all the weapons in here, wouldn't you? You yourself said you were a dork for weapons, Ruby. You actually might have had fun in this castle, fighting these monsters, knowing you were protecting Remnant from the evil within." He walked away.
He found another scythe with a sword next to it. "Qrow, why did you have to go? Why did I have to lose to you? If I had won that day, you would have... You should be the one making Winter happy, not me. I'm so sorry I failed you." He walked away.
He then found a cane. "Ozpin, why aren't you with us anymore? What did Salem do to Oscar that you can't surface anymore? . . . " Jaune sighed. "At least... At least Oscar is making you proud." He walked away.
Jaune found a minigun. "The guns were one thing, but this?" He chuckled. "It's bigger than... Than..." He sighed. "Do you... do you think Velvet would forgive me, Coco? I knew who Sarah was from the beginning, but I didn't tell anyone. I... I trusted her. And yet she... I'm sorry, Coco. That never should have happened to you." He then walked away.
He then found a sword that looked familiar. "Pfft, the things Winter would say to this. Shoddy craftsmanship. Low quality. Poor design. I might even bring it to her just so she can berate it." He walked away.
He then found some throwing stars. "Harriet was never the same after what happened to you, Vine. You'd be proud of what she has become. The number of lives she and the rest of your friends she has saved alongside Winter. They're truly heroes now, Vine." He then walked away.
He then found a crossbow and a staff. "Fiona. Joanna. May. . . Thank you. I'm sorry I wasn't there. Please, rest in peace, heroes. I'll make sure Solitas is never conquered again. Especially not like that." He walked away.
He then found an Odachi. "Hm, nowhere near as impressive as your Omen, Raven. Still, your blades aren't exactly durable. Maybe I should bring this to you. Though, knowing you, you'd probably give it to Phoenix or something." He walked away.
He found a shield. He picked it up and found it had mechanisms that would fire off bullets. "Hm, reminds me of Lionheart's weapon. Mother told me he killed him using a Seer of all things. Is it wrong that I feel nothing about his death?" He placed the shield down and walked away.
He found a pair of scythes. "Maria, I think you would have liked Mary. She uses her eyes like a pro. Though, I'd bet you'd brag to her about how you were better. Actually, according to your stories, you two were a lot alike. Even your Semblances are a bit similar." He walked away.
He found some sickles next. "Emerald, I wish I knew what happened to you. You've been missing for so long. Glynda told me you disappeared a little bit after I gave up, taking Mercury with you. Please, I'm begging you two to be alright." He walked away.
Jaune found a simple umbrella. He then tugged at the hilt to find a blade before pushing it back in. "Neo. Where could you be? I... I miss you." He walked away.
He then found a pair of wrist blades. "Callows. I swear, I will be the one to kill you. That's a promise, you bastard." He walked away.
He found swords that greatly resembled the swords Cinder creates. "You won't kill Winter. I'll make sure of that. You and I have a long score to settle anyway."
Jaune finds a katana and a cleaver. "I know we weren't exactly close, Blake... but I wonder if I could have learned from you. These powers. They can be overwhelming at times." Jaune chuckled. "Then again, I'm not sure a cat and a wolf can get along all that well." He walked away.
Jaune then found a pair of gauntlets. "It's funny, Yang. There were plenty of times when I had to rely on my fists. Even had to make up new martial art. I wonder if I could have taken you on." Jaune sighed sadly. "I guess we'll never find out, eh? Later, Firecracker," he said before walking away.
Finally, he found a rapier. "Oh, Weiss. I'm sorry I was such a poor excuse of a partner. I couldn't help you when you needed me most. You've done so much for me. For everyone. I should have been better. I mean, look at me. I'm just another beast. I even had a child with your older sister. I'm the worst, aren't I? . . . I miss you so much."
Jaune sighed before he walked into the very center of the armory. He looked to see weapons as far as he could see. Guns, blades, crossbows, explosives, daggers, and even bottles of water of all things. Still, it didn't change the fact that there were enough weapons for an army more than big enough to conquer Atlas in its prime, with enough left over to take over Mistral.
"Magnificent, is it not?"
Jaune looked towards the voice to see a woman taller than even him leaning against one of the weapon cases. "Yeah, it's pretty amazing. You proud of yourself for amassing enough weapons to conquer the world?"
"Of course I am. Just as I will be proud when I bring Carmilla her new pet," Striga said as she got off the case.
"Hmph. Easier said than done, vampire." Jaune then gagged when Striga grabbed him by the throat in the blink of an eye.
"Oh, I think it's just as easily done, werewolf." She then threw Jaune through at least three cases. "At least try to entertain me, little man."
Jaune groaned as he pushed the weapons off of him. He got out and glared at the approaching, smirking Striga as he reached for Crocea Mors, only to grab air. He looked to see that it was gone.
"Looking for this?"
Jaune looked up to see Striga holding Crocea Mors by its sheath. She drew the blade to closer inspect it more. "An impressive weapon. Forged with powerful steel and lovely golden metal. It was even reforged after being shattered."
"DON'T YOU FUCKING TOUCH IT!"
Striga looked up with a raised eyebrow as she saw a fully transformed Jaune lunge towards her at great speeds, claws out to impale her through the eyes. Unfortunately, Striga caught him by the wrist and slammed him onto the ground enough to wind him, his Aura sparking. "So it is precious to you." She looked at the weapon. "Hm, I do smell something. It's feint. A few decades old, but even behind the blood of countless beasts and monsters... I can still smell the scent of a woman."
"Shut up."
Striga inhaled deeply. "On the gold, at that. It smells like it was formerly armor. Armor belonging to an exceptional woman."
"Stop."
"Your woman?"
"Stop!"
Striga then bent down closer to Jaune's face with a sadistic smile. "If her armor is part of your weapon... it must me you let her die... or did you kill her, werewolf?"
Jaune's eyes turned completely red. He tried to bite Striga's face off, but she moved back in time and grabbed Jaune's muzzle shut before flinging him across the armory again. But this time, he was able to land on the cases. When he landed on his feet, he made sure to calm down enough to transform back into a human so he could use the Sword of Destruction.
However, he heard Striga groaning and looked to see her holding... the Sword. The vampiress then through his trump card behind her far into the armory, where it would be difficult for even him to find it. She did the same with Crocea, only throwing it to her left.
Striga hissed as she looked at her smoking hand. "So, you are able to wield a holy blade such as that? I see why Carmilla sees you as valuable. You might even earn a bit of my respect, little wolf."
Jaune growled before he regrew his claws. "I suppose I should feel honored."
"Yes," she said as she grabbed a javelin. "You should." She then threw it.
It came at such speeds that it shocked even Jaune, who was barely able to dodge it by bending to the side. In that position, Striga grabbed him by the face, slammed him into the ground, and threw him through the floor as if it were water instead of concrete.
Striga smirked at her hand as she flexed her fingers, popping her joints. "I must say, your strength and speed is quite impressive. I didn't know it would increase my own to such a level."
"That explains a lot," Jaune groaned as his Aura sparked again. "You took my strength and speed that spell stole from me."
"Indeed. As the general of Carmilla's army, I need as much physical power as I can take. Yours is by far some of the best. I think I'll take the rest of it."
Jaune glared at her as he got back up. "Over my dead body."
"Mm, tempting, but you are more valuable alive." She then grabbed the scythe pair and connected them together, making it a dual-sided scythe. "Catch this, if you can." Striga threw the scythes at Jaune. They were spinning at such great force that they actually created a tornado around them.
Still, Jaune did not attempt to dodge. He watched them as they got closer, biding his time. 'NOW!' Jaune reached out and grabbed the scythes, spun with them, and threw them back at Striga. She was so surprised that she didn't have time to dodge. Instead, she was impaled by an end of the scythe.
Jaune smirked. "I caught it."
"So you did."
Jaune's eyes widened as he watched Striga get up, rip the scythe out of her chest, and throw it away, the blade lodging into the wall of the armory. "How did you-"
"Don't be so surprised, werewolf. Higher vampires are not so easy to slay."
"Higher vampires?"
"Mm, seems you have much to learn, boy. I'm sure Lenore will teach you once you are one of us. For now," she began as she grabbed something else in the rubble of the weapons shelves she tossed Jaune through. She then pulled out a minigun. "Dance, little wolf."
"OH, SHIT," Jaune went as he began to run like a wolf, going so far as to transform to prevent Striga from filling him full of holes. Jaune was able to keep out of the path of the bullets, but it was only a matter of time before he went full circle and ran towards Striga, which would give her a straight shot at him.
He then took a chance and ran down an aisle, despite knowing he might get lost in the armory, where Striga would obviously know her way around.
Still, Jaune ran down and saw something that might help him.
Jaune grabbed the rifle and jumped onto the top of the shelf. He ran towards the end and slid to the edge before looking through the scope. Through it, he saw Striga looking right at him with a raised eyebrow. He wasted no time in pulling the trigger.
BANG.
Striga's head flew back, the large woman stumbled backwards a few steps, Jaune smirking at his success. "Eat your heart out, Ruby."
"I think I'd rather eat yours out." Jaune's eyes widened at Striga's comment.
She then chuckled evilly before bringing her head down, showing Jaune how her wound was healing before she caught the bullet as it was pushed out of her skull. "It seems your healing powers mix in quite well with that of a High Vampire's. This is quite good to know. Maybe we can use you as a breeding dog to make new and stronger soldiers. I have plenty of servants for you to breed with, little wolf."
"You gotta be kidding me," Jaune went.
"Oh, and by the way, look to your right."
Jaune looked down and saw an aisle full of grenades, bombs, and other explosives. "Oh, shi-"
BANG. BOOM.
Jaune was then completely engulfed in the explosion Striga caused. She smirked at her own work. "No need to teach you to play dead? Good boy."
There was rubble and scattered weapons everywhere, some of them on fire from the explosion. In the pile, a banging was heard.
BANG. BANG.
Next, a black arm punched through the rubble before going back into the hole. Then, Jaune smashed his way out of the rubble, rubbing his head with a groan as he got out. His Aura then shattered. "Dammit. I can't seem to keep my Aura in this place. If it weren't for the Saint's Tears, I would have been in a much worse condition."
"That 'Aura' as you call it is impressive."
Jaune looked towards the voice. "Oh, crap."
Striga smirked. "But let's see how well you can do without it, she said as she aimed her minigun.
Jaune looked down in time and kicked up a shield, blocking Striga's fire.
"Hoh? Not bad. Fortune smiles on you, werewolf." She then threw away the minigun, since it was out of bullets. She then punched through a shelf and ripped out a war hammer. "Let's see how enduring your body is next." She then sped before Jaune in the blink of an eye.
Jaune's eyes widened at her speed, despite knowing that it's actually some of his speed. He was fast enough to hold up the shield, but he would still feel the full brunt of her strike, the force vibrating throughout his entire body. He was then sent flying, the shield shattering, Jaune smashing through more shelves before slamming into a large set of armor.
Slamming into the armor was like slamming into a gong, Jaune's ears ringing, his body shaking. He even grabbed his head in a pain attempt to make everything stop shaking. When it was over, he shook his head. "Ugh, I feel like I'm going to vomit."
"Please don't." Jaune looked up to see Striga walking towards him with the hammer resting on her shoulder. "That would be disgusting."
Jaune sucked his teeth before looking around. He then saw a pair of handguns and lunged towards them. He was able to grab them and aimed at the approaching Striga. "Glad Winter's not here to see this. She'd kill me," he said, not seeing Striga smirk.
He then fired each and every last bullet at her, not letting up until the cartridges were empty. When they were, his eyes widened when he saw that Striga wasn't even hurt.
"Did you forget that I have yours AND a High Vampire's healing ability?"
"Riiiiiight. I did forget. . . Crap."
"Indeed." She then appeared before Jaune, hammer held high.
Jaune was able to jumped out of the way in time, Striga crushing the guns instead. When Jaune landed, he grabbed the dagger he saw and wasted no time in stabbing it through Striga's shoulder, right through the socket between her shoulder and arm, making her drop the hammer. In response, Striga smacked Jaune, the force sending Jaune flying towards the center of the armory.
Striga hissed at the dagger before she reached back and ripped out of her shoulder. "Impressive, little man." She then grabbed a greatsword. Striga jumped high into the air and fell towards Jaune.
He groaned as he got up, holding his chest at the area Striga smacked him, before noticing the shadow. He looked up and jumped out in time to avoid being impaled. He skidded to a halt to glare at Striga as she ripped the greatsword out of the ground, making a large hole in the process. "Nice sword."
"Sword? This is but a dagger, boy." Striga then swung the massive blade, creating a powerful gale storm. It had enough force to make Jaune have to cover his face, but not enough to push him back.
When it was gone, Jaune looked to see that the weapons were blown far off into the ends of the armory. "Oh, not good."
"What's wrong, werewolf?" Jaune glared at Striga. "Do you not have faith in your claws," she asked as she pointed her greatsword at Jaune.
Jaune growled as his claws grew. 'Yeah, I'm at a huge disadvantage. My claws are sharp, but they're not exactly long-range. Those wind blades of mine may fix that, but that healing of hers is a pain in the ass. Plus, they won't do nearly enough damage to end this fight. I need to get to my Sword of Destruction, but even though I can smell her, no way will Striga give me the time to search for her. She has me outclassed in speed, strength, and recovery. If only I had another weapon,' Jaune thought as he took a stance.
Fortunately, when he did, his hand brushed past something by his hip. His eyes widened when he remembered what he had.
"Let's see how well you can do without any toys, WEREWOLF," Striga roared as she charged at Jaune.
He tried to time it just right. When she got close to where he wanted her, he swung upward.
Striga yelled out in pain, sliding past Jaune before regaining her footing and sliding to a halt. She groaned as she reached for her eyes. When she looked at her palm, she was shocked to see her blood, already feeling the cut over her left eye healing. She then heard the sound of a chain retracting and looked to see a spiked chain returning to a battle cross in Jaune's hand.
"That weapon. The Vampire Killer of Gabriel Belmont? You kept it?!"
Jaune held up the cross and activated the stake function. "Surprise."
Striga stared at the cross in astonishment before she chuckled, which became a boisterous laugh. "That truly is a surprise. Quite unexpected, little wolf. Do you believe yourself to be a Belmont now?"
"Still have no idea what a Belmont is supposed to be, lady," Jaune said as he unknowingly took Gabriel's stance.
"Hm, I suppose you wouldn't. Still, do you honestly believe you are skilled enough with that weapon to beat me?"
"I believe I'm crazy enough to find out."
Striga chuckled. "Maybe you were a Belmont in a past life. Who knows? But in all honesty, who cares? This just proves you're strong enough to challenge any Belmont, which means you're strong enough to kill them. You will be a fine knight for Carmilla, and a fine underling for me."
Jaune's glare intensified, his hair and skin turning white, his eyes turning Grimm. "Not happening."
"Heh, we shall see."
Jaune and Striga stood in place, staring at the other. Moments passed.
Then, they charged at each other, prepared to finish their battle.
Jaune's cross clashed with Striga's sword, the impact pushing the two away from one another. Jaune glanced at his cross in the split second he was skidding from Striga. 'Not a scratch. Hastile made this thing seriously durable.'
Striga hissed. 'That damned sorcerer. He did too good of a job on the Vampire Killer replica! If it were a Holy weapon like Arc's Sword, I might be in trouble.' She then noticed the stake, her eyes narrowing in anger. 'No, I'm still in trouble if he uses that.'
Striga slashed at Jaune, sending an air blade his way. Jaune jumped out of the way of the blade and swung towards the rubble. He might not be fast enough to reach the weapons, but his chain just might be. He smirked when he saw he was right, the chain wrapping around something.
Jaune didn't hesitate to swing whatever he caught around. He spun so fast, that Striga couldn't dodge, getting slammed into by a mace. The force of the attack sent Striga crashing into the rubble this time, with Jaune retracting his chain and catching the mace with one hand. He couldn't help but analyze it. "Huh. Kinda looks like Cardin's mace. Whatever happened to that guy," he asked with a raised eyebrow before shrugging his shoulders and tossing it away.
An explosion occurred, weapons flying towards Jaune. He merely tilted to one side, the weapons flying past him.
Striga was now walking towards him, spinning a ball and chain at speeds that created a whirlwind around her. "Impressive, but I'm getting annoyed, Arc."
"Hmph." Jaune then noticed something caught in Striga's wind. His eyes widened. 'CROCEA!'
His sword truly was caught in her wind. Jaune then got a serious look in his eyes and fully transformed his lower half. He then charged towards her.
"Hah! Coming right at me?! HOW BRAVE!" Striga swung the ball and chain.
Jaune jumped over the ball, barely avoiding being so much as grazed by the weapon before he continued to run in Striga's direction. He then began to spin Vampire Killer's chain at great speeds to defend himself against the weapons flying towards him due to Striga's wind. He really wished that one of those weapons was Crocea, but it was basically above Striga.
Still, Jaune didn't see this as a problem. He even smirked.
As he continued to spin Vampire Killer, he skidded to a halt and thrust towards Striga. She moved her head in time to avoid getting hit, not even the spikes of the chain touching her cheek. She then smirked as she tugged at her chain. Before Jaune knew it, he was wrapped around by the chain before the ball slammed into him, the force of the impact and the feel of his skeleton being constricted to the point that breaking bones were heard making him scream.
"Victory is mine, werewolf."
Jaune gave a toothy smirk. "Think so?"
"Huh," Striga went with a raised eyebrow.
Jaune, the arm holding Vampire Killer still free, yanked his cross. Next thing Striga knew, her shoulder gushed with blood, the vampiress seeing Crocea Mors fly towards Jaune. However, the next thing she noticed was how her chain fell. She looked to see that Jaune's sword slashed right through her shoulder, making it limp, causing her to drop her weapon.
She didn't get to see Jaune drop the Vampire Killer to catch Crocea Mors, let alone watch him escape the loosened chains and throw Crocea like a dagger. When she looked up, she only felt a stab in her left and saw her blood gush out more. She looked down to see that Crocea Mors had pinned her to the floor through her leg.
She looked up to see Jaune lunging towards her, Vampire Killer in hand, ready to stake her. When he got close enough to stab her, she smirked.
Right as the stake was about to touch her chest, she turned to mist, Jaune missing the mark.
Striga appeared behind Jaune, fangs fully bared, aimed at his neck, rushing in for the bite.
However, Jaune looked back at her, eye glowing bright red. He held up his human arm, letting Striga plunge her fangs into it, surprising her. Then, with a lunging howl, he plunged his fangs into her neck, and tore out her throat, her blood completely covering his chin.
Striga stumbled back, gurgling in shock at what happen before looking towards Jaune. To her, his face was completely shadowed, his white hair shining brightly, a pair of red orbs burning into her black, dead heart; Vampire Killer's stake shining like a beacon. Then, with a final howl, Jaune stabbed right through Striga's heart.
She gasped in pain and shock, gagging as she looked at her chest in disbelief. She then looked at Jaune, who was reverting back into a human. Jaune then licked her blood off of his lips before spitting it out, not taking his eyes off for a second. "Victory is mine, vampire."
He then plunged Vampire Killer deeper into her chest, making Striga scream out in pain one last time before turning into darkness, her body fading away. When it was gone, all that was seen was a red orb.
The darkness traveled into Jaune's Grimm Arm, letting him know he just collected Striga's soul. He then looked at the orb. Before he could do anything, the orb shot into his body. It didn't hurt at all. In fact, it rejuvenated him. Jaune then felt a surge of familiar power. He realized it was the rest of his physical power stolen from him. At the thought of nearly being complete again, he couldn't help but release a victorious howl.
He let out a content sigh. "All that's left is to get back my Beowolves. Hm?" He noticed a glimmer where Striga's body was. He walked over and picked it up.
"The other key."
Jaune walked through the piles of weapons, sniffing around until he stopped at a particular spot. He tossed the top layer of weapons and dug through the other layers until he saw the familiar, onyx-colored hilt. He grabbed the hilt and ripped it out of the piles of weapons.
He held up the Sword of Destruction, the sword shining beautifully. "Not a scratch on you, M'lady."
As soon as he spoke to the sword, it began to glow, surprising Jaune. Then, the familiar purple smoke came out. When the smoke dissipated, there she was, arms crossed beneath her large breasts, looking down at Jaune with her purple eyes staring into his blue eyes, her hair flowing beautifully despite being inside a windless armory.
"Nimueh (until we know her real name, but it's apparently one of the most common names of the Lady of the Lake herself)? You're in your spirit form? You're almost never in your spirit form. What's wrong?"
She continued to stare at Jaune. "Darling?"
"Yes?"
"You're an idiot."
"Wha?! What did I do?!"
Nimueh sighed. "Are you or are you not my chosen wielder?"
"Huh? Um, I am. I have a pact with you."
"Mhm, and are you not able to access my full power?"
"I-I can. Especially if I give you more Aura."
"And you should be able to use me perfectly?"
"According to you, I can?"
She then knelt down. "Then why didn't you call me back into your hand?"
Jaune was quiet for a bit. "Come again?"
"Did you forget," Nimueh asked with a raised eyebrow. "You just have to hold out your hand and think, 'return', and I'll either fly back or teleport back into your hand."
Jaune looked into the beautiful spirit's eyes before he facepalmed. "I am a dense motherfucker."
"Yes. Yes you are. And thanks to Raven, literally." Jaune sighed even more. "But..."
Jaune then felt his face being cupped. He was then made to look right into Nimueh's face. She then kissed him, surprising Jaune. Their kiss ended with a loud smooch, a small bit of saliva connecting the two as they separated from the deep kiss.
"You're MY dense motherfucker," she said with a sly smile.
"Uuh."
"Despite the fact that you shared a bed with several different women, of course."
"I swear, all four of you bring that up whenever you can," Jaune yelled.
Nimueh giggled before she went back into her sword. "Now let's get out of here and get your summoning powers back. I'm getting sick of this castle."
Jaune sighed. "You and me both, partner," Jaune said as he left the armory.
Jaune was now riding an elevator upwards. "Gotta love how this castle is full of these."
"Makes traveling much simpler. Darling?"
"Hm?"
"That battle cross. Why are you still carrying it?"
Jaune took out the Vampire Killer. He stared at the cross before taking out its stake before putting it back in. "No idea. It just feels... right, you know? Like its meant to be a part of me. Kinda like how I am with Crocea Mors or you. I just can't part with it. Besides, you have to admit I'm damn good with this thing."
Nimueh sighed. "I suppose I can't argue with the truth."
"Though, it's weird how good I am with it. I've never used a whip in my life."
"Maybe you're naturally sadistic."
"Oi."
"That, or Raven taught you well."
"WHOA! SHE AND I NEVER-" They reached their stop before Jaune could finish talking. "We never did anything kinky."
"Hmmm?"
"I'm not lying," Jaune said as he walked out with a blush into a courtyard.
"Where next?"
Jaune looked around. The first thing he noticed was a huge clocktower. He then looked and saw a wing of Carmilla's castle. He looked through the windows and spotted some books. "There," he pointed. "That looks like a library."
"Because of the books?"
"It's my only lead." As soon as Jaune said that, the room illuminated. Actually, the entire floor lit up, letting Jaune see rows and rows of books. Even the floor above lit up to show more books.
"Well, that's not ominous at all," Nimueh said.
"At least I know I'm right. Seems we should expect a warm welcome."
"Hopefully they will have some treats for you."
"I just hope I don't have to 'offer' any 'treats' myself."
Nimueh giggled. "You're not that lucky, Darling."
"A man can hope," Jaune said as he walked towards the wing.
He then stopped when he felt a chill run up his spine. He looked behind him before looking towards the top of the clocktower. "Please tell me I imagined that."
"What did I just say about your luck, Darling? There's a powerful magic at the top of that tower."
Jaune turned towards the tower. "Should we check it out?"
Nimueh was silent for a bit. "You're possibly powerful enough to handle whatever is up there. You have nearly all of your powers, and I doubt even the dwarf could strengthen your cursed armor any more. It may be difficult, but it's far from unwinnable. Still, in the end, the choice is yours. What do you wish to do, Darling?"
Jaune stared at the clocktower before looking back at the castle. "Something tells me if I go towards the library, I won't be able to come back here. I'd be giving whatever's up there a free pass."
"And you don't want to do that, right?"
"We may be forced to stay here, but we're trying to stop the evil within this castle from spreading across Remnant. The creature of there was powerful enough to send a chill up my spine. No way I can let something like that roam free after I beat Carmilla."
"Alright. Let's go for a slight detour, my dear Huntsman."
"As you wish, M'lady," Jaune said with a smirk as he walked towards the clocktower.
Carmilla was watching him as he did so, someone standing next to her.
"Hm, that's disappointing. I was hoping he would come to me first. I had some of my servants bake him some fresh treats."
"Then they'll go cold. Still, for what reason would he go to the clocktower," Carmilla asked as she swished the blood in her glass around before taking a sip as she appraised the tower.
Just as she was sipping her blood, her eyes shot open, slowly moving her glass away from her lips.
"Carmilla?"
"Why? How? How is he here?"
"Who?"
Carmilla growled. "I thought that worthless reincarnation destroyed him. He should be as irrelevant as Dracula himself!"
The woman next to Carmilla raised an eyebrow before she was struck by a realization. "You don't mean-"
"That's EXACTLY who I mean, Lenore."
"Should we be worried," Lenore asked. "Jaune is incredibly valuable. Should he fall, especially to him-"
"That fool has been bested many times before. One of those was to a werewolf. Jaune is by far the most powerful werewolf I have ever seen. He also has that holy sword at his disposal. I know he will be victorious," Carmilla said as she took another sip.
She then smiled, showing off her glistening fangs. "And besides, if he proves to be mightier than Dracula's favorite henchmen, then I truly will be unstoppable once Jaune is mine." Carmilla laughed evilly as Lenore smiled at her before looking back at the spell, wanting to watch Jaune's battle against his next foe.
Jaune entered the clocktower and looked. He then raised an eyebrow. "No stairs?"
"Darling, most of the monsters we've seen have the ability to fly. Or at the very least, have superhuman agility."
"Well, I can't fly. But superhuman agility..." Jaune knelt down, his legs becoming Beowolf hindlegs. "That's more my forte." He then jumped.
He wall jumped, ran across the wall, and swung all the way up to the top of the tower; killing a few bats, gremlins, and even a few gargoyles on the way up. He even accidently woke up a gargoyle when he climbed onto it, the beast roaring at him.
"WHOA," he went before punching its head into dust.
Eventually, he reached the height of the tower, right behind the face of the clock, standing on giant gears. He looked around and saw a door. He walked jumped over to it and walked through to step onto a balcony. Jaune looked around as he walked closer towards the end. "What did we sense up here?"
"DARLING! BEHIND YOU!"
Jaune's eyes sharpened. He immediately grabbed the Sword of Destruction and slashed behind him. He was shocked to see that he clashed with something. He was even more shocked to see what it was. "A scythe?!"
The scythe shot away before rushing back at Jaune. Jaune then blocked the oncoming attacks from scythe, moving away from the edge of the balcony, slowly moving towards the middle.
When the scythe reeled back and swung with great force, Jaune backflipped away from the attack, perfectly landing on his feet, glaring at the weapon. He then sensed an attack from behind and used Crocea to slash at it. He glanced in the direction of the attack to see... the blade of a sickle falling past him before it vanished into purple flames. "What the hell?"
"Impressive, werewolf."
Jaune looked behind him towards the top of the clocktower to see a cloaked figure, sickles spinning around him, flaming skulls flying near him, and a dark aura emanating from him. He then held out his hand, the scythe flying into his grasp. Jaune then noticed that his face was nothing more than a skull. Upon closer inspecting, he realized that the cloak had nothing more than a skeleton within.
"You are as skilled and powerful as I sensed. A truly worthy sacrifice," the being said.
Jaune glared at the being with a growl. "Who the hell are you? One of Carmilla's underlings?"
"MIND YOUR TONGUE, MORTAL," the figure roared as he pointed his scythe at Jaune. "That traitor gets no respect from me. She has the audacity to call herself the new Lord of Darkness, the Queen of the Vampires! IGNORANCE! Through you, the true King shall be brought back in this glorious, beautiful Paradise made for him."
"I don't follow. Who are you? And what's this business about a damned King?"
The being chuckled. "Be honored, werewolf. Not many of your kind get the privilege of standing before the God of Death himself. Or would you be more familiar with that garish name you mortals call me, the Grim Reaper?"
Jaune analyzed the being. "Maria took inspiration from you? A bit disturbing."
"Hm, many mortals find me inspirational, but few a worthy of my name. Though I am not of your world, the lives of the heroes residing within its Next World are known to me. Maria Calavera was a respectable warrior... for human standards. She is no reaper. Before you is one who decides who lives and dies. As such, I suggest you relinquish your soul."
Jaune stared at the being. "Say I did, what would you do with it?"
"Yours is a powerful soul. Even compared to your right arm filled with the souls of the damned, yours emanates the most power. It's curious how you, a Child of the Knight, have such a bright light even with that much shadow. A truly powerful and valuable soul MORE than capable of resurrecting my Master."
"Your Master?"
"He whose throne Carmilla rudely sits upon. The true Lord of Darkness and the King of the Vampires: Count Dracula."
"Never heard of him."
Death chuckled. "Soon enough, he will be known throughout this Paradise as its one true ruler. I have scoured this land in the time you brought this castle to its knees, and I have only found one who can rival my King, but not best him. The Witch is strong, but she will fall to him."
Jaune gripped his fist tightly. "You will not cause anymore suffering to my Mother."
Death laughed. "So she is of your blood! That explains much. Through you, not only shall he be resurrected, but will gain power beyond even his previous prime! Not even a Belmont will be able to best him! Through you, vengeance will be all but ours," Death laughed as he held out his arms.
"Huh," he went when he heard rushing wind and saw a wind blade rushing towards him. He swatted it away with his scythe, but his skull illuminated with red orbs. Orbs wide with surprise. He then glanced over to his scythe to see it was shaking from the impact of the deflecting. He then looked back to see that Jaune had slashed at him with the Sword of Destruction. 'That holy blade... it is mightier than that accursed Vampire Killer,' Death thought.
"If you think I'm going to let you get away with bringing more suffering to my world," Jaune began with his eyes shadowed by his hair.
Death watched in fascination and Jaune's hair and skin turned completely white, the aura around him becoming darker, and his body transforming to that of a partially transformed Grimmkind. Jaune then glared at Death with his own red eyes before expertly spinning both his swords over his head and taking his stance.
"You're out of your unholy mind."
Death chuckled. "You believe you can challenge me, werewolf?"
"I've taken on bigger and ugly things than you within this castle so far."
"But you've yet to challenge anything as POWERFUL AS I!"
Death then held out his arms, countless sickles appearing around him. He then gestured towards Jaune, the sickles flying towards him.
Jaune knew that not even he could block all of those sickles with his swords.
So, he holstered Crocea Mors and took out his Vampire Killer, and spun it at such speeds that he scattered and destroyed all of the sickles at once.
"WHAT?!"
Jaune retracted the chain and looked at the reaper with a raised eyebrow. "That all you got?"
Death looked at Jaune's battle cross. 'The Vampire Killer from that odd timeline. So he wields it now? No, it is but an ordinary battle cross. I need not fear it. YET HE STILL STANDS AGAINST ME?! THAT BEAST WILL PAY FOR HIS INSOLENCE!'
"MINIONS," Death roared with his arms outstretched.
Not soon after he said that, burning skulls screaming bloody murder appeared around Death, looking ready to attack Jaune.
Jaune glared at his enemies and tossed Crocea Mors into the air. He then caught the blade with his tail. With the Sword of Destruction in his left hand, the Vampire Killer in his right, and his tail holding Crocea Mors; Jaune got ready to fight in this odd stance that he literally thought of on the fly. It was risky, but he could only think of one thing at the moment and said it out loud to Death himself:
"Bring it on."
Jaune was slashing away at the countless sickles and skulls. He didn't want to take a chance at touching any of them. He was doing better than even he expected in using his tail, slashing plenty of sickles and skulls attacking him from behind. Still, it annoyed him that he wasn't getting any closer to Death.
Jaune then noticed Death spinning his scythe. The god threw his weapon at Jaune, slicing his minions indiscriminately, wanting nothing more than to slice Jaune in half.
However, Jaune jumped over the spinning weapon, but was still caught in the jaws of a giant skull.
The skull flew towards the end of the balcony before exploding. Jaune was sent over the balcony, falling towards the ground.
Before he went too far down, Jaune swung his Vampire Killer, latching onto the edge of the balcony. With powerful tug, he sped towards and landed onto the balcony. As soon as he detached his chain, he spun his Vampire Killer at great speeds, destroying the sickles and skulls near him.
"Impressive. How will you handle this, werewolf?!" Death pointed his hand towards the sky, shooting up what looked like fireballs. Jaune looked up to see then falling towards him, and just jumped out of the way of falling, flaming rocks. When they landed, they caused powerful explosions that pushed even Jaune away.
However, Jaune saw a use in that.
When the next explosion occurred, Jaune actually rode the explosion, flying towards Death. Jaune then readied the Vampire Killer and swung towards Death. His eyes widened when the chain just went through the being.
Death laughed. "Did you believe that antiquated toy could harm me? It is not the true Vampire Killer. The I am familiar with is a holy weapon, while the replica you wield is based off of a mortal weapon drenched with holy water. Carmilla would never carry the necessary holy water to make it effective against me. Better yet, I do not sense God within this Paradise, so no holy water will ever be made! You have no way to harm me!" Death cackled loudly.
'Holy weapon?' Jaune's eyes then widened as he had the combat cross retract the chain in reverse, Jaune speeding towards Death.
"What are you doing, werewolf? Do you believe your claws can harm me? You may be a Creature of the Night, but your puny claws cannot hope to so much as scratch-"
Jaune then slashed Death with the Sword of Destruction, making him scream in pain before jumping off the clock's face, landing among the now still sickles and skulls. He then turned towards the panting skeleton. "You mentioned how there was no 'God' to make holy water, but you forget that this sword was CREATED by a god. She's more than holy enough to end a being like you."
Death looked at Jaune. "And yet, you wield that blade as if it were nothing. A holy relic should be like poison to you. You should feel nothing but agony by being near it."
Jaune held up his right arm. "The Grimm are actually attracted to the Relics. True, I can't touch her using this arm, but I never allowed myself to be fully taken over by this power. I still hold what's left of my humanity dear to me. That is why she deems me worthy of wielding her."
Death stared at Jaune before he stood back up. "Werewolf, tell me your name."
Jaune growled at Death. "I am NOT a werewolf. I am Jaune Salem Arc, son of the Grim Queen, King of the Beowolves, one of the leaders of the Resistance, the chosen wielder of the Sword of Destruction, and the man who will end Remnant's long nightmare," Jaune said as he pointed the Sword of Destruction at Death.
"Oh? A King? That makes your soul even MORE valuable, werewolf."
"Maybe you weren't listening, reaper. I'm not a werewolf. I'm a Beowolf." Jaune then swung used his Semblance, making the Sword glow. "As well as a HUNTSMAN!" Jaune then swung his sword, creating a bright blade of light that destroyed all of Death's minions and sickles.
"Werewolf, King, Huntsman, Vampire Hunter; NONE OF IT MATTERS TO ME! ALL THAT MATTERS IS THAT YOU RELINQUISH YOUR PRICELESS SOUL TO ME," Death roared as he charged at Jaune, scythe at the ready.
The two clashed, their power making the entire tower, no, the whole castle shake.
The blood in Carmilla's glass was even vibrating, which Carmilla stopped by merely placing her hand atop her cup. "Death seems to be having trouble with a non-Belmont. I dare say he's struggling against Jaune more than he did against Hector. Or even Alucard himself."
"That's quite the praise, coming from you, Carmilla," Lenore said.
"I give what is deserved."
"Still, I do miss Hector. He was my favorite pet."
"Oh, please. That mongrel was nothing compared to my new pet wolf," Carmilla said as she sipped more blood.
"Maybe. At the very least..." Lenore looked to her left and cupped the face of a Beowolf. "The creatures Jaune summons are much more pleasant to look at. Yes, you are," she said as she nuzzled the Grimm's nose, making it wag its tail. Carmilla groaned before looking back at the fight.
Jaune and Death clashed several times before Death threw a black ball at Jaune.
When it landed, Jaune was now in an electric sphere, the dark energy breaking his Aura. While in the sphere, Death took a different, more humanoid, almost puppet-like form; his left hand was now a hook. "Fallen ones, seize the Werewolf King!"
Jaune then felt his body being grabbed by numerous hands. He looked down to see ghostly hands indeed holding him.
"You're fate is sealed, werewolf. Too late for regrets." Jaune looked but saw no one.
"The Gates of Hell are open." Jaune looked towards the voice, only for Death to stab his now-bladed left hand through him, making him cough blood onto the god's face. Death laughed at that. "I WILL SWALLOW YOUR SOUL, AND USE IT TO RESURRECT THE TRUE LORD OF DARKNESS!"
Jaune looked to see Death's face turn ghostly before his wide-open mouth shot toward him.
Thinking fast and turning both his arms Grimm, he caught Death's jaw.
"WHAT?!"
Jaune was making sure Death wouldn't bite him, struggling against the god.
"CEASE THIS! YOU CAN NOT BEST ME!"
Jaune growled as his eyes turned Grimm. They then shot open before he released his signature battle cry turned howl. Then, he did something awesome.
He dislocated Death's ethereal jaw, making the god release Jaune with a pained scream. Jaune landed hard on his side, coughing up blood, and gasping from pain.
Then, one of the ghostly hands from before grabbed his face and slammed it into the floor before grabbing it again and holding his face to the ground.
Death panted as he glared at Jaune. "Magnificent. THAT SOUL WILL BE MINE!"
Jaune just squeezed his eyes shut, waiting for the pain.
It never came.
Instead, there was the sound of a punch and Death's cry of pain.
"YOU NO HURT JAUNE!"
The hands holding Jaune disappeared, allowing him to shoot up with a gasp for air. As he was panting, he looked toward his savior. "GOL!"
"Me here to help friend. Me here to protect Jaune!"
Jaune looked to see Death smashed against the clock face before he phased out of it. Jaune could actually see the anger in the red orbs he calls eyes. "A mere golem? A mere tool DARES to attack me?!"
Jaune growled. "HE'S NOT A TOOL! HE'S ALIVE!"
"Alive? Ah, yes. It is self-aware. How curious."
Gol stared at Death. "Death God, me can be human? Me can be man like Jaune?"
Jaune looked at Gol in surprise. "Like me?"
Death chuckled. "You wish to be human? I understand being a superior being like Arc, but a mere human? Still, that would depend on your definition of being human."
"What make human human? What make Jaune good man? Me want to know."
"The capacity to ponder your existence. To have need and desire. That is the essence of a human soul. But Arc's soul is far more valuable than that."
"But... me think... so me human. Me like Jaune."
"Golems weren't made to think. They were made to serve!"
"Me soul real. Me happy! Me am Gol! GOL IS JAUNE'S FRIEND! GOL WILL PROTECT FRIEND! GOL WILL PROTECT HUMANITY! THAT WHAT HUMAN DO! THAT WHAT JAUNE DO!"
Death raised his hand, a dark orb sparking with evil appearing in his palm. "You could never be like Arc, tool." He then fired the blast.
Gol looked ready to take it, but Jaune appeared in front of him and slashed the orb in half, not leaving a scratch on him or Gol. "You're right, Death. He can't be like me." Jaune glared at Death with his red eyes. "BECAUSE HE JUST BECAME A BETTER MAN THAN I! I WILL NOT LET YOU KILL MY FRIEND!"
Death looked surprised before he chuckled. "Because you've already let so many of them die, correct?" Jaune growled like a Beowolf. "I know the history of this world, Arc. You tend to fail those you care for most, from blood to bond to even love."
Jaune's eyes then widened with anger, accidentally fully becoming the Beowolf King. "And you know what, Death? I am sick and TIRED of failing those closest to me. Gol won't die here, and neither will I. BUT YOU WILL!" Gol roared in agreement.
"COME, MIGHTY WOLF! COME, FOOLISH TOY! BEHOLD HE WHO GOVERNS WHO LIVES AND DIES," Death roared as his aura turned the area into a hellish landscape of wailing souls, skeletal ground, and screaming skies. In the middle of the nightmare was a massive Death, a scythe just as huge as he.
Death cackled before he swung his scythe, Jaune ready to parry the building-sized blade. However, Gol pushed him out of the way and grabbed the blade instead. Though it pushed him back a bit, he was still able to stop the blade.
"RELEASE MY SCYTHE, YOU BUMBLING OAF!"
"ME NOT LET GO! ME HELP FRIEND!"
Jaune did not hesitate to run up the weapon. Death looked in time to see Jaune reach his shoulder, but couldn't react in time to avoid Jaune slashing his massive cheekbone, fracturing that part of his skull.
Before Jaune could fall to safety, Death grabbed Jaune with his massive hand and squeezed enough to make Jaune cry out in pain before lifting his hand up. "INSOLENT CHILD," Death roared before he threw Jaune towards the ground.
The impact caused an explosion of wails, Jaune bouncing across the plains before skidding to a stop, groaning as he pushed himself back up.
Death smacked Gol away before he raised his scythe. "YOUR SOUL IS MINE, WOLF!"
Death then heard Gol's roar and looked toward him. He saw that the golem was surrounded by lightning, most of it collecting into the palms of his massive hands. He then aimed his hands at Death. "TAKE IT!"
Gol shot two massive beams of electricity at Death, who yelled out in pain when it struck him. 'HOW?! HOW IS THAT POSSIBLE?! I AM A GOD! ONLY BLESSED OR CURSED WEAPONS CAN HARM ME! Wait? What is this faint evil I sense? Dark magic. But from where could a mere oaf possibly gain such a thing,' Death thought.
Meanwhile, in a secret room, Penelope was typing away at the computer, analyzing the dark sphere around the clock tower. 'Truly fascinating. This magic truly is remarkable. I wonder if my new "toy" is doing its best to help Jaune,' she thought.
Gol then lunged towards Death, fists raised up to smash into his skull. However, Gol stopped in mid-air, his mouth lowering in shock... blood flowing out of it before he coughed some more up.
"Don't overestimate yourself, golem," Death said as it was revealed he impaled Gol with his scythe in the blink of an eye.
Still, Gol raised his huge hands, his palms surrounded by lightning, and slammed them onto the scythe. Death screamed out in pain before he slammed Gol into the ground with enough force to break the evil field in half. He looked down at the panting, bleeding creature; eyes full of rage. "You've insulted me enough, GOLEM!"
Death raised his head high above his head, ready to swing it down with all his might. "NOW DIE," he said in the calmest, darkest tone.
"DEATH!"
The reaper looked up to see Jaune falling towards him, Sword of Destruction in hand, eyes burning with determination.
"WHAT," Death went in shock.
"GET THE HELL AWAY FROM MY FRIEND!" Jaune then impaled Death through his massive skull. Jaune then let out a howl as he forced his sword down Death's entire body, the god screaming as the realm around them literally began to break. When Jaune reached the mark and landed safely on the ground, the realm shattered, revealing the now-ruined balcony of the clock tower.
"No. This isn't possible," Death said as he was struggling to keep his body from disintegrating. "How could a mere werewolf best me?"
"You yourself said it, Death. Only a holy weapon can harm you. Though, it seemed that you lied, since Gol was able to hurt you. Still, as long as I have the Sword of Destruction as one of my most trusted partners, I will never lose to the likes of you."
Death chuckled dryly. "A bold statement, werewolf. One you will have to prove again against me. I found my way into your realm. I can do it again, even if I must traverse the very depths of HELL in order to find you. We shall meet again, King Arc."
"Sorry, Death, but you're not going anywhere," Jaune yelled as he held out his right arm.
Death then felt a pull. "WHAT?!" He then felt a suction. "NO! WHAT IS THIS?! COULD THIS BE- WHY DO YOU HAVE SUCH A POWER?!"
"Gol wasn't the only friend I made in this cursed castle! The merchant Chupacabra enchanted my arm so that I may collect damned souls such as yourself! I have bested you, now I shall lay claim to my prize!"
"NO! YOU DAMNABLE DWARF! YOU WOULD GIVE AWAY SUCH A VALUABLE SECRET?! WHAT'S MORE, YOU GAVE IT TO A WEREWOLF! THAT'S WHO YOU WANT TO BE OUR RULER?! YOU INCOMPETANT FOOL! HOW COULD YOU BELIEVE THAT THIS ONE IS WORTHY OF BEING THE LORD OF DARKNESS!?"
"WHAT," JAUNE WENT.
"CURSE YOU, DWARF! CURSE YOU, ARC! NO! DAMN YOU! DAMN YOU ALL TO HELL!" Death gave one last scream before he was sucked into Jaune's arm, no trace of him left behind.
Jaune had won.
Jaune grabbed all of his weapons before looking at his right arm. It felt so... heavy. Using the spell Chupacabra showed him, Jaune saw the souls surrounding his arm. It was like a vicious hurricane swirling around his arm, with Death's skull screaming back at him. It was a jumbled mess, but Jaune knew Death was cursing him, screaming anything and everything at him. It was honestly exhausting. Even when Jaune deactivated the spell, he still felt heavy.
He then heard a groan. "GOL!"
He ran over to his friend, who was leaning against what was left of the balcony's end. He looked at the massive hole in his gut. "You're really hurt," Jaune said in worry.
"Gol fine. Gol can heal." He coughed. "But take much time. Lady says me healing not like yours or hers."
"Lady?"
"Pretty lady. Orange hair. Emerald eyes. Cream skin. Smelled like Gol."
Jaune glanced down angrily. "Penelope. What did she do to you?"
Gol raised his hand. "Gave new power. Saved Gol so Gol would save Jaune."
Jaune sighed. "I can't believe I have to thank her of all people." Jaune then reached into his cape and searched. He then took out a Saint's Tear and checked again. "Damn. This is my last one."
"Drink. Jaune need more than Gol."
Jaune stared at the drink. He then bit off the top and chugged it down.
"Thank you," Gol said through his pants. He then saw Jaune's Aura. "Why Jaune glowing?"
Jaune threw away the bottle. "You're about to find out." Jaune then held his hands over the hole, activating his Semblance.
Gol looked and watched as a blue Aura spread from the wound all over his body. He then began to feel better. "What happening?"
"Yes!"
Gol looked at Jaune. "Why Jaune so happy?"
"Because I was right! I can awaken someone else's Aura with my Semblance! Gol, are you feeling better?"
"Yes. Gol not feel much hurt anymore. Why Gol feel better?"
"It's thanks to your Aura."
"Aura?"
"The manifestation of our soul. It both protects and heals us, and I can boost the power of Aura to make it heal us faster."
Gol gasped. "Our... soul?"
"That's right, Gol. You have a soul. If you ask me, you're as human as I am." Jaune then closed the hole in Gol's stomach. "Done."
Gol stood up, looking at his hands before looking at his stomach. "My... Aura... heal... me. My... soul... heal... me." Jaune smiled at Gol before he noticed that water was leaking from his metal head. Jaune quickly realized they were tears.
Gol then walked over towards the balcony, took a deep breath, and gave roared as he lifted his arms towards the heavens. "ME HAVE SOUL! ME AM REAL! ME HAPPY! ME! AM! HUMAN!" Gol then roared a few more times, the sound of his sobs of joy mixed in with his victorious roars.
Jaune smiled at his friend, wiping off a stray tear from his eye before he looked towards Carmilla's castle, at the highest, most elegant, most magnificent, and largest tower. It was obvious that was where she was, but Jaune looked towards the library first, where the last of his stolen powers were.
"Gol." The powerful ally looked back at Jaune. "You need to go somewhere safe. Hideaway while I put an end to this."
"What?"
"I'm going to get my powers back. Then I'm going after Carmilla." Jaune looked towards the shattered moon, the celestial light slowly descending, marking the ending of the night. "I'm bringing an end to this long night."
"No."
Jaune looked at Gol in surprise. "No?"
"Gol not abandon Jaune. Gol not run from friend when friend in trouble."
"Gol, I'm about to go up against the ruler of this insane castle. It's too dangerous. I don't want to put my friend's life in-"
"Jaune strong. Gol know that. But Gol also know that not even Jaune invincible. Jaune not immortal. Jaune need help. Friend need help. Will help friend. Will protect friend. That what human would do. Me am human. Me help friend. Friend no die in evil castle."
Jaune stared at Gol before he sighed. "I can't convince you otherwise, can I?"
"No. Me help you, whether you want or not."
At that moment, Jaune saw all of his friends, both living and dead, standing before Gol. Jaune then smiled. "Alright. Let's put an end to this and get out of this nightmare." Gol nodded.
Jaune then walked towards the balcony. "Now, what's the fastest way down from here, anyway? Whoa, hello," Jaune went when Gol lifted him.
"Easy," Gol said.
"Wait, Gol? What are you- Whoa. Whoa-whoa-whoa! Can we think about thiiiiiiiiiiIIIIIIIII-AAAAAAAAAAAAAA-HAAAA-HA-HA-HAHAAAAAA! HOLY CRAAAAAAP!"
Gol landed on his feet at the base of the clocktower with a heavy smash... and a splatter since he an unfortunate a pair of hunchbacks were bickering where he landed.
Jaune's hair was sticking up due to the wind pressure before he shook his head, his hair going back to normal. "Peeeeeeew, what a rush. Plus don't do that again," Jaune said as Gol placed him back on his feet, Jaune a bit wobbly.
"Me sorry."
"It's alright," Jaune said as he got his balance back. He and Gol then walked towards the castle, Jaune being the one to open the large doors. Since he had his old strength back, it was easy, yet it still felt off to Jaune for some reason. He looked at his hands and flexed his fingers a few times. "Do I... really have all of my old strength back?"
"What wrong?"
"Nothing, Gol. I just... might be overthinking things." Jaune then glared forward when he heard screeching.
He saw some gremlins flying towards him and Gol, a pack of goblins running beneath them. "Get ready, Gol."
"Me always ready," Gol yelled as he took his stance, electricity sparking around him.
Jaune then reached for Crocea Mors, but stopped when he saw the monsters halt. He raised an eyebrow when he saw how terrified they were.
"What wrong with them," Gol asked.
"They look... scared?" Jaune then noticed that they were looking at him. Or more specifically, his arm. Jaune looked at his Grimm Arm and raised it. When he did, the monster ran away, screaming in terror.
"Why they so afraid of you?"
Jaune had a sudden realization. "It's not me they're scared of. It's my Arm. Or more specifically, the soul within it," Jaune said as he looked at his arm.
"Death," Gol said.
"Exactly." Jaune stared at his arm a bit longer before looking forward. "That makes it easier for us. It should be a straight and easy line to the library. Let's go," Jaune said as he ran.
As he did and ran past a suit of armor, the armor lifted his axe and tried to swing it down onto Jaune's head. Jaune didn't notice soon enough to be able to dodge or block it. Instead, Gol punched it into pieces.
"Uh, okay. Death's soul doesn't scare enchanted objects. Good to know."
With that knowledge, Jaune and Gol made their way to the library, no monsters in their way; but plenty of enchanted weapons, living suits of armor, and annoying traps instead.
Still, it did not take long for the duo to reach the castle library, where the last of Jaune's stolen powers resided.
With a deep breath to calm himself and to mentally prepare for what was in the library, Jaune pushed over the large doors, ready to face the next challenge with his friend at his side.
Jaune and Gol walked into the library.
"So many books," Jaune said. "Oobleck would have a field day in here."
"Who Oobleck?"
"My old teacher in a past life, but now he's one of the commanders of the Resistance. He's trying to save humanity like I am."
"So he hero?"
"Oh, absolutely," Jaune said as he and Gol walked through the library.
They made sure to walk a straight line, not straying at all. Just by looking around, Jaune saw that the library was no different from a maze. One wrong move could get the two lost, and he couldn't afford that.
"Ah, there you are."
Jaune looked toward the voice to see a beautiful yet pale woman sitting at a table at the very center of the library. Jaune could tell by just looking they were at the base of the library, given the fact that you could see the many floors and rows of bookshelves at the area. Jaune also noticed the chess board on the table, the freshly baked sweets near the empty chair, some chicken next to the chess board with some sides on the plate, and the teacup in front of the woman. The teacup filled with blood.
What really caught Jaune's attention was what was standing protectively behind the woman: a Beowolf.
"I've been expecting you, Mr. Arc."
Jaune glared at her, earning a growl from the Beowolf. Gol growled in retaliation. "You seem to have me at a disadvantage, m'lady. You know me, but I have no clue who you are."
"Oh, a gentleman. And look at me, being so rude as to not introduce myself," the vampiress said with her hand over her mouth in a lady-like manner. She then turned towards the Beowolf. "Shh. People are talking, pet." The Beowolf whined as it laid down on the ground.
"You seem to have it well trained."
"Oh, thank you. You have marvelous powers, Sir Arc. Oh, right. Ahem. My name is Lenore. Like Striga, I'm Carmilla's sister. Not by blood, of course, but we are family."
Jaune raised an eyebrow. "Am I to assume you want revenge for my killing of Striga?"
"Oh, goodness no. I'm not a fighter, good sir. I prefer less violent approaches. You see, I'm a diplomat."
Jaune looked surprised. "A diplomat? Here?"
"Oh, don't look so shocked, love. We vampires aren't all barbaric, blood spilling beasts. Just as not all werewolves are insane, flesh tearing, mad hounds."
"I'm not a-"
"Yes, yes, I know. I've been watching you with Carmilla. You're not a werewolf."
Jaune looked shocked as he looked around.
"Oh, don't look so surprised. You didn't kill Hastile. Of course we can still watch you. Though, it is rather insulting to call you a mere werewolf. I've been alive for quite some time, and I have never seen a werewolf even remotely as powerful as you. After all," she began as she scratched the head of the Beowolf, making its tail wag. "Since when have werewolves ever been able to summon an endless supply of monsters more powerful than Night Creatures?"
"Night Creatures?"
"Hm? Oh, come now, Jaune. You've been killing them all night. There souls are literally screaming from your arm." Jaune looked at his Grimm Arm before looking back at Lenore.
"Now then, Jaune, why don't you take a seat?" He didn't move. "Come on. I won't bite. I have no need to," she said as she lifted her teacup before taking a sip. "I do love the blood from the humans of this world." Jaune's eyes widened, beginning to turn. "They have a unique flavor. Far more powerful than the humans of Wallachia or Styria. Healthier, too. With a hint of magic hidden deep within. It's as if this blood came from a fruit from the Garden of Eden. Or the vampiric equivalent to that legendary garden, anyway," Lenore said with a giggle. "Hm? Jaune, darling, you're transforming," she said with a smile.
"Don't. Call. Me. Darling. How many?"
"How many?"
"Don't play dumb with me, vampire."
"Mm, so serious. A small village just north of here. It was already under attack, though. By bipedal lions, of all things."
Jaune growled. "Vodou."
"Oh, right. According to my spies, all of these dark beasts have rulers. So the ruler of the lions is named Vodou. Hm? Like that adorable religion from Africa? No, wait. That's called, Voodoo, isn't it? Well, no matter. Aren't you going to sit? We have much to discuss, and I do think it would be more comfortable for you if you sit."
Jaune just glared at the smiling Lenore.
"No like vampire girl," Gol said softly to Jaune.
"Nor do I. Be ready for anything," Jaune said as he walked towards the table. Gol stepped forward to follow.
"Ah-ah-ah. Only him."
Gol growled.
"Gol."
He looked towards Jaune. Jaune shook his head, making Gol slump down and step back.
"Good doll," Lenore said with a smile.
"Don't call him that," Jaune said as he sat down.
"Ooh, so protective. Well, I suppose that's too be expected from the... oh, what the devil did they call you... Ah! The Hero of Remnant." Jaune growled. "Mm, not big on that name, are you? I suppose it is a bit gauche."
"What do you want, Lenore?"
Lenore looked at Jaune before smiling, leaning onto the table, head above her hands. "I'd like to make a deal."
"What," Jaune went with a raised eyebrow.
"I'm a diplomat. It's my job to make peace in any way possible, preferably bloodless. So, let's talk. Piece of chicken," she said as she motioned towards the meat, Jaune just now noticing the small plates and utensils near it.
Jaune just stared at the food.
"Come now. You haven't eaten all night. Grimmkind or not, you must be famished by now. Oh, and that's more proof you're not a werewolf, by the way. A true werewolf would have gone mad with hunger by now. It would have torn apart and tried to eat that doll of yours more than an hour ago," she giggled.
Jaune stared at the food before he sighed. He then took a plate and filled it with what he wanted before he began to eat. "It's good."
"I can hear the surprise in your voice, Jaune. I like your name, by the way. Yellow was one of my favorite colors, after all."
"Mm."
"Anyway, about the food, we vampires do eat it. It's the blood that gives us our essential nourishment, of course, but we enjoy all the good things in life. It'd be silly not to, wouldn't it? Otherwise, well, why live forever if you're not going to live well?" Jaune looked down sadly. "Oh, right. I'm sorry. That reminded you of your Mother, didn't it?"
Jaune sighed. "It disturbs me how much you know about me."
Lenore giggled. "Well, I wouldn't be a good diplomat if I didn't know my opponent very well, now would I?"
Jaune stared at Lenore before taking another bite off his plate. "What do you want, Lenore?"
She smiled. "Let's you and I have a game."
"A game?"
"Yes. If you win, you get your powers from me back."
"That easily?"
"Oh, you underestimate me if you think it will be easy to beat me," she giggled.
"And if you win?"
Lenore looked Jaune right in the eye, her smiling widening seductively.
"You belong to me. Forever."
Jaune stared at Lenore before grabbing a cookie and eating it. "Belong to you, huh?"
"Well, you'll belong to Carmilla as well, but mostly me."
"Do you have a collar for me as well?"
"Oh, funny you should ask," she said as she took out a gold dog collar with white diamonds adorned on it.
"How gaudy."
"It matches your golden hair."
Jaune ate the last bit of chicken on his plate and reached for a drink that was never there. "Hm, I honestly forgot there were no provided beverages." Lenore snapped her fingers.
Jaune heard the sound of running and looked to see a Beowolf rushing towards them before sliding to a stop, a wine bottle and glasses on its back.
"The finest wine we have to offer," Lenore said proudly.
Jaune stared at the bottle before using his claw to take out the cork and fill up the empty glass. He swished the crimson liquid around a bit, took in the aroma, and sipped. "It's delicious."
"As I said: why live forever if you're not going to live well?"
Jaune looked right into Lenore's eyes. "You're trying to bribe me."
"Well, I'm showing you what kind of life you'll have once you're my pet. All this luxury, all this comfort, and so much more could be yours. Myself included, if you wish," she said with a blush.
"You do realize I'm an old man."
"A handsome one at that. I am willing to assume you are far more attractive without that admittedly masculine beard. Though, I'm more into cute things than handsome, and considering what your children look like-" The sound of glass shattering was heard. Lenore looked to see the wine dripping through Jaune's fingers.
Lenore giggled. "Don't worry. Your children will be safe, Jaune. I'll give you my word. Once your mine, I'll become their new mother."
"They have mothers."
"Yes, three beautiful women, since you were forced to kill one of them. Tragic story." Jaune growled. Lenore giggled in response. "Two witches and an undead much like your doll back there."
"There is one like Gol," he asked.
"Yes. She is why I know you have a place for you in our world, Gol. Mary is a kind, caring, loving woman who sees the good in this world and wants to protect it. A true hero if there ever was one. She placed those values in our son, Gelb. You have a place with us, Gol."
"Gol happy to hear. Gol will make sure Jaune returns to family."
"Oh, that depends solely on whether or not Jaune can win our games, puppet," Lenore said with a smile.
Gol growled and looked ready to attack. He would have had Jaune not raised his hand to stop him.
"Games," Jaune asked.
Lenore giggled as she moved one of her pawns. "Only two, love. This is the first."
Jaune looked down at the chess board and moved his pawn. "So instead of fighting me, you want to face my intellect?"
"Exactly," she said as the two were playing chess. "I'm not a warrior, Jaune. I'm a thinker. I do have plenty of vampiric abilities that make me a threat to mere mortals, but you are anything but mere. You defeated Striga, for God's sake. And that was without your full power. Oh, impressive move."
"Thank you," Jaune said as he made his next move.
"Mm, you're quite clever. You seem to know chess quite well. Were you taught?"
Jaune's hand froze in place for a moment before he placed his piece in its chosen spot. "Yes."
"Let me guess, by your deceased lover, Weiss Schnee?"
Jaune glared at Lenore. "Why do you know about her?"
"Oh, Hastile collected some of your spilt blood and used a spell to let Carmilla and I see your past. Quite the tragedy you've lived. So much death and suffering, the burden of failure slamming upon your shoulders, the cursed knowledge of knowing that it is your bloodline that caused all of this, and the unenviable position being being quite possibly the only one who has the power to stop it. Honestly, you remind me so much of Dracula's boy, Alucard."
"Alucard?"
"He was the last of Hastile's warriors that you slew in the catacombs."
Jaune remembered his face. The relief in his eyes, the sadness he felt for Jaune, and his last words: "You must not fall."
"Still, don't you think you've suffered enough?"
"What are you talking about?"
Lenore smiled as she placed her next piece. "Check." She then leaned back into her chair. "We can put an end to your battle, Jaune. Hastile's magic. Carmilla's cunning. Our collective power. We can free your Mother and end your long nightmare."
Jaune looked at the board. "And replace it with a different one." He then placed his next piece. "Check."
"Hm? Oh. Oh. Oh, my. I honestly didn't see that. Not bad."
"Weiss was the best of the best. She was the one who showed me this. Ever since I beat her using it, her favorite joke is saying how she wishes she wasn't such damn good teacher," Jaune said with a smile.
"Mm, that's the first time I've seen you smile."
Jaune blushed before looking away with a growl, making Lenore giggle. "Hm. . . Oh."
Jaune looked back at the board. His eyes sharpened, looking a bit annoyed.
"Something wrong, my dear?"
Jaune sucked his teeth before performing his next move. "Checkmate."
"Hm? Oh. Oh, dear. It seems I've lost."
"Don't patronize me, Lenore."
She looked at Jaune with a smile. "Why, whatever do you mean, Sir Jaune?"
"You were holding back."
Her smile grew. "Was I?"
"Had you moved your Rook here, your Knight here, or most unexpected of all, your Queen here; then it wouldn't have mattered what my next move was. You would have been able to perform a checkmate."
"Mm, you're quite the strategist."
Jaune glared at her. "You were testing me. Why?"
Lenore leaned onto the table. "You know, you called me Lenore just a while ago."
"What?"
"That was the first time you called me by my name. Tell me, Jaune... do you feel more comfortable around me now?"
Jaune's eyes widened.
"This could be your life, if you wanted it to be. You can finally have peace. True, Paradise will be under Carmilla's control, but she wouldn't be as vicious a tyrant as your Mother. She would install a blood tax onto the humans, and they could live in peace. The night creatures, the Grimm, the villains of this world; it would be all under our control. We could make Remnant into a Paradise for all. We'll even leave those 'Tribute Towns' be. The world would be under not just mine, not just Carmilla's, but YOUR protection. Your children can live a happy life. The life you're fighting to give them. What do you say, noble Beowolf King?"
Jaune looked down at the chess board before looking up at Lenore. "You held back in chess... Is it because you're far more skilled in the next game?"
Lenore sighed. "Can't say I didn't try." She then snapped her fingers.
The entire library began to shift. The table split in half, moving Jaune and Lenore away from each other. Then, the floor separated, allowing a giant chess board to appear, but the chess pieces were different.
"Now then, Sir Jaune Salem Arc, how about a most enjoyable contest..."
Jaune looked at the smiling Lenore as she elegantly moved a strand of hair from her beautiful face.
"Of Vampire Wargame?"
Jaune looked at the giant board. "One row? What is this?"
"The Vampire Wargame. It's far simpler than chess, but far more fun. I'll let you make the first move since I made the last one."
"But I don't know the rules."
"Oh, it's quite simple. See that spinner next to you?"
Jaune looked and indeed saw a spinner. He immediately spun it. "The necromancer?"
"Mm, what will your move be with those two?"
Jaune looked at the board. "Mm, necromancers are traditionally able to raise the dead, correct? If I had a zombie piece, I would have it appear there," Jaune pointed. When he did, the giant Necromancer Piece raised its staff, making a zombie piece appear. "Wow."
"See? Learning already." Lenore spun next.
The game continued as so. Jaune figured out the game nearly immediately, already showing off his skills.
"Hm," Jaune said with his hand on his beard, wondering where to move his werewolf.
"Are we enjoying ourselves, Jaune?"
"Hm?" He looked up towards the smiling Lenore. "It's quite nice, isn't it. Just enjoying a pleasant game, not a care in the world, the weight of the world off your shoulders."
Jaune smiled at her. "Yes. It is."
"Darling?"
Jaune's eyes widened at the sound of Nimueh's voice snapped Jaune back into reality. He immediately slapped himself.
"Ooh, that sounded painful," Lenore said.
Jaune glared at her. "What are you doing to me?"
Lenore smiled. "That's the beauty of it, Jaune. Nothing. I did nothing. This man before me is who you truly are: a tired old man who desires peace. Who wants his suffering to end. Who wants to rest. And you know what, Jaune? You deserve it. You've sacrificed so much, given so much, and had so much more taken. Not just your arm, or your friends, or your loved ones, or even your humanity. You had your entire LIFE stolen from you."
Lenore made her next move, which coincidentally allowed her to destroy one of Jaune's werewolf pieces. "Running and fighting. Running and fighting. Run, fight, protect, and suffer. That's all your life seemed to be in the past." Jaune jolted at her last words. "You have suffered so much. Fought so much. Protected so much. Don't you think it is time for you to find peace? Join us, and the piece you so deserve can be yours."
Jaune was quiet for a bit. "My life in the past."
"Hm?"
"An interesting choice of words." Jaune made his move. He was lucky enough to land on the werewolf, using it to destroy the vampire piece that destroyed his werewolf piece. "You're right, Lenore. I did run. I did fight. And I did suffer. However, you mentioned how I also protected. I did more than that. I RAISED those I protected," he went, Lyra, Phoenix, Gelb, and Nix appearing in his mind. Then, little Solis appeared in his mind. "I may have a life of peace one day, or I may never know it ever again. But I know damn sure that I will never stop fighting until I know those I love can look towards the dawn, with no fear of the darkness or what it hides plaguing their hearts. My children, my family, my home will know peace; even if it costs me my life!"
Lenore stared at Jaune before she smiled. "How admirable. Let's see how far your resolve goes." Lenore made her next moves.
Their game looked as if it were back and forth, Jaune destroying her pieces, with Lenore destroying his in retaliation until the two were down to their last pieces. Jaune had his werewolf piece and Lenore had her vampire piece.
"Oh, my. The irony," Lenore giggled.
Jaune wasn't as amused. If he could get a werewolf on this spin, he could end it. As luck would have it, he got exactly what he needed.
"Oh, dear. I seem to have lost again."
"Alright. Now, give me my powers."
"Hm... not yet."
"What," Jaune growled.
Before he could react, Lenore gently grabbed his face, shocking Jaune. "One... last... game," she said seductively before placing her forehead against Jaune's.
Jaune then saw a flash of light.
In the next moment, he was in a dark, war-ridden, blood-soaked battleground. Before him were monsters, Grimm, and humans fighting against each other.
"General!" Jaune looked to see a soldier in peculiar armor. He recognized it as the same armor he saw around the castle. "What are your orders, sir?"
Jaune stared at the soldier before looking out at the battlefield. 'An illusion, huh,' Jaune thought. He then took a deep breath. "Status report. What is our current situation?"
As the soldier explained, Jaune listened to every detail. He then gave out the necessary orders, turning the battle tide into his favor. Jaune then personally went into battle, with only his claws and armor as his weapons. He did not have his Crocea Mors, his Vampire Killer, or even his Sword of Destruction at his side. It made the battle harder, but far from unwinnable.
During the fight, he had to save some of his commanders, using his Semblance to heal them. Jaune noticed that the commanders fought more fiercely after he saved them, even protecting him and saving him from enemy commanders and traps.
Eventually, Jaune reached the enemy stronghold, and wasn't surprised to see Lenore sitting at the throne, smiling.
Before her was a platoon of heavily armored warriors, monsters, and Grimm. Jaune, with his top commanders behind him, wasted no time in charging into the fray, sending commanders flying or taking their lives, sometimes distracting them enough for his own commanders to land fatal blows on the enemy.
Then, when the battle was in his favor, his commanders outnumbering and overpowering Lenore's, Jaune jumped off the shoulder of one of the enemy commanders. Time seemed to slow down as he lunged towards the smiling vampiress, arm reeled back, claws ready to deliver the killing blow.
Then, just as the tip of his claw reached Lenore's breast, the same light from before engulfed all.
The light seriously irritated Jaune's eyes. They were still sensitive, so it was hard for him to open his eyes. He felt a soft, cool, sweet sensation on his lips, though. When his eyes were finally able to readjust and he was able to see again, his eyes shot open in surprise.
Lenore was kissing him.
She then parted from him, licking her lips. "So that's what you taste like. Exquisite."
"Y-You. Why you-" Jaune went angrily.
Lenore then placed her fingers on his lips. "No need to get angry. I just kept my word."
"What?"
"You beat me in all three games. Impressive. You've earned your powers back."
Jaune's eyes widened. He looked down at his hand before pointing at the ground, a Grimm Pool appearing, a Beowolf crawling out. "My summoning," Jaune went in both surprise and joy.
Realization then hit him when he heard the sound of Lenore's heels walking away, turning towards her. "Are you sure about doing this?"
"Oh, quite sure. Like I said, you beat me fair and square. Though, I most certainly should have tried harder in our chess match. That was probably my best chance at beating you. Oh, well. Maybe we'll have a rematch."
"Rematch?"
Lenore looked back at Jaune. "Come now. We both know this won't be our last meeting." Jaune didn't respond... because he knew she was right. "Well, before we depart, I should warn you that Carmilla will still be quite the challenge, even for you."
"I'll meet it head on."
Lenore giggled. "What a brave, little wolf. Still, don't think too lowly of yourself should the Queen of the Vampires best you, my dear Beowolf King." Jaune just glared at her as she walked off. "Ta-ta. Oh, and thank you for the parting gift," she said as she held up her index finger.
Jaune's eyes widened when he saw what was in her nail. "A drop of my blood?! How did you get that?! My Aura never broke!"
Lenore looked back at him with a mischievous smile. "How indeed." When she said that, two massive bookshelves slammed closed behind her, separating her and Jaune.
Jaune just stared at the bookcase as Gol walked up to him. "Jaune alright?"
He continued to stare. "Yeah. I'm fine. Let's go," Jaune said as he walked towards the huge doors, Gol following him.
Lenore smiled at the bookcase before looking at the drop of Jaune's blood in her finger. She then placed her finger on her tongue as if she was eating frosting off of it. She stared at her now clean finger, waiting for something. "Hm," she went with a shrug.
Her eyes then popped wide open. She gasped, hand clenched over her heart, before she fell back against the shelf, sliding down, panting heavily. She looked up, a deep blush on her face, panting seductively, rubbing herself as she sucked on her finger; hoping that even a tiny trace was left.
"Such potent, powerful, delicious blood. Oh, Carmilla, you HAVE to win. Had I known his blood was so delicious, I would have stopped at NOTHING to make him ours." Lenore then touched herself, losing herself in the ecstasy that was the taste of Jaune's blood. Lenore then held up her hand, looking at the glistening liquid flowing down it. "Well, that was unladylike of me to do. Though," she began as she stood up, dusting herself off. "It's not as uncouth as watching a woman from the shadows like you are, my dear."
"Oh, I've been found out," a familiar voice went as heels clicked past a corner.
"Hm, I remember you from Jaune's memories. You caused him quite a bit of suffering. If I remember correctly, you're a witch known as Cinder Fall, correct?"
"Oh, I'm not quite so powerful as to be called a 'witch'. Not just yet. There are two women I need to kill and whose powers I need to take for myself in order to be that powerful. I'm still just a Maiden."
Lenore giggled as she turned towards Cinder. "You haven't done many things that can be considered the actions of a Maiden, Ms. Fall."
"This coming from the bloodsucking monster that reached her climax by drinking a blood from my 'brother'," Cinder asked with a chuckle.
Lenore just continued to smile at Cinder. "What do you hope to accomplish here, magician?"
Cinder held up her hand, creating her sword. "How about the rare prize known as a Vampire's Aura and her head on a plate?"
Lenore's eyes glowed green. "My head on a plate?" She then laughed.
Cinder's smile grew before she charged at Lenore, the beautiful vampire standing in place elegantly as her opponent charged at her. Time seemed to slow down as Cinder was mere inches away from Lenore. Lenore's eyes glowing green and Cinder's eye burning with the Power of the Maidens, the two gave toothy smirks as they prepared to commence their duel.
Jaune and Gol walked down the hall, on their way toward Carmilla's throne room.
Then, Jaune stopped.
"What wrong?"
"Red drapes."
"Red drapes?"
"Gol. We're going to make one last stop. We're going to meet a friend of mine and make sure we're fully prepared to face Carmilla. This is our last chance to do so, after all."
"If Jaune think it good idea, then Gol follow."
Jaune nodded before he and Gol walked through the curtains, ready to see the Chupacabra for one last visit to his shop before the final battle.
Jaune and Gol walked into the shop, Jaune not be surprised to see the keep nowhere in sight. He was about to call for him.
"YAAAAAAAA-HAHAHAHAHAAAA!"
Jaune was surprised by the laughter. "Chupacabra?!"
"SIR ARC!" The dwarf appeared out of nowhere. "OH, YOUR TIMING IS MOST AUSPICIOUS! I'VE DONE IT! I'VE FINALLY FINISHED YOUR- YOUR- Your... Your... yououououououououououoooooooOOOOOOOOAHAAAAAAAAAA!"
"Now what?"
"T-T-T-T-T-T-T-THAT S-S-S-S-SOUL. C-C-C-C-C-C-C-C-Can it truly be what I think it is?"
Jaune looked at his arm. "If you think it's Death's soul, then ye-"
"THE SOUL OF DEATH HIMSELF! OH, SIR ARC, YOU HAVE NO IDEA HOW VALUABLE SUCH A SOUL IS! OH, IF ONLY I COULD FIND A WAY TO USE IT, I WOULD HAVE MADE TWO MASTERPIECES IN ONE NIGHT!"
"Two?"
"Wait, Sir Arc, your mortal blade! Give it to me so I can place Death's soul within it!"
"WHAT?! NO!"
"But, Sir Arc! With Death's soul residing within it, your sword would be a holy relic like the golden blade at your other hip!"
"I'm not about to place the soul of an evil god within my family heirloom."
Chupacabra sighed. "How unfortunate. I doubt you have another weapon on your person," he said in depression.
"How about this?"
"Hm?" The dwarf screamed. "IT CAN'T BE! A REPLICA OF MY FORMER MASTER'S WEAPON!"
"Your what now?"
"Sir Arc, Carmilla had her sorcerer kidnap me from a different timeline for my skills. I was a servant to Dracula himself, who in that timeline was the progenitor to the Belmonts themselves! His Vampire Killer was not as mystical as the Magic Whip Carmilla is most familiar with, but it was extraordinarily powerful! My Master bested Satan himself with that weapon!"
"Who?"
"No one you need to know, my boy. Still, that weapon is perfection! Please, place it on my counter." Jaune did as such. "Now, I need a single drop of blood."
"Uh, what?"
"Trust me, my dear werewolf, it is necessary."
Jaune sighed before he held up his hand. Lowering his Aura, he stabbed his index finger using his claw, squeezing out a drop of blood. He let his blood drop onto the center of the combat cross.
"Just two more drops for good measure."
Jaune sighed before he squeezed out more drops.
"PERFECTION! Now..." Chupacabra did his strange movements, saying incoherent babble before he began to glow. He then surprised Jaune when he pointed his little hands at Jaune's arm, the appendage now surrounded by a dark wind.
Then, the sound of screaming was heard. In a familiar voice at that. Then, a massive skull was dragged out of Jaune's arm.
"DON'T YOU DARE, DWARF! CEASE THIS NOW," Death screamed. "NO! NOO! I WILL NOT BE THIS HUMAN'S SERVANT! I ONLY SERVE THE DARK LORD! NOOO!"
Chupacabra then held his hands down towards the cross, Death screaming as his soul began to merge with the cross. A bright light that made Jaune cover his eyes occurred just as the last bit of Death's soul was sucked into the cross.
When the light was gone and Jaune could see again, his eyes widened at his first sight. There it was his Vampire Killer, floating in mid-air. The entire base of the weapon was as white as bone, the ends as black as the night sky, radiating dark energy. Jaune gently grabbed the weapon, analyzing it, feeling the power of Death himself radiating from it.
"I've done it." Jaune looked at the dwarf. "It is complete. A True Vampire Killer."
"What do you mean?"
"In Carmilla's timeline, the Belmont's whip was originally a magical weapon forged from Alchemy, which only became as powerful as it is when a vampire willingly gave her soul to complete it, turning it into the Bane of the Night. There was another timeline where it was known as the Morning Star Whip, which slew vampires with but a strike. Its origins are unknown, but I have now created a whip that rivals both of them, if not surpass them! For your Vampire Killer, my dear werewolf has the soul of Death himself. If the soul of a recently turned vampire made that whip so powerful, imagine what the soul of a god can do."
Jaune looked at the whip. "Are you really in there, Death?"
As soon as Jaune asked that, black smoke came out of the whip. It began to grow until it formed the reaper himself, the surprised spirit looking at himself before he laughed. "A foolish mistake, Arc." Death then created his scythe. "I'LL SWALLOW YOUR SOUL, WEREWOLF!"
Jaune grabbed the Sword of Destruction, ready to duel the reaper, only to realize he had no sense of danger. Finding that odd, he lowered his guard.
Just as the scythe was about to touch Jaune's shoulder, it bounced off. "WHAT?!"
"Ah-ah-ah."
Death glared at the snickering dwarf. "WHAT HAVE YOU DONE?!"
"I've placed a Blood Oath upon you."
"YOU WHAT?!"
"One drop was all that was needed, but I needed to be extra careful with you, death god. So, I had Sir Arc grant me three drops of blood. That battle cross is now bound to the Arc bloodline, meaning you are as well. You are now a servant to every member of the Arc Clan."
"Y-YOU CURSED ME TO BE A SERVANT TO MERE HUMANS?! YOU, A MERE DWARF?!"
"No! Not to humans. Just the Arc family, like the original Vampire Killer is bound to the Belmonts. Power as great as yours shouldn't be abused, so I made it so that only those of House Arc can wield you. Or at the very least, those whose spirit and soul are very similar to Sir Jaune's. Anyone else will perish if they try to wield you. That is, of course, if they can withstand the searing pain they would go through by merely touching the cross. It would feel like the very flesh was torn off of them." The dwarf laughed at that.
"Y-You! I'LL TEAR YOUR FLESH OFF," Death roared as he lunged towards Chupacabra, who screamed at the sight of this.
"STAND DOWN," Jaune roared.
Reluctantly, Death froze in place, groaning at not being able to move of his own free will.
Jaune sighed in relief. "Guess you have no choice but to follow my orders. That's convenient, wouldn't you say, Nimueh?"
The spirit in Jaune's sword appeared, leaning against the back of his head. "Indeed. Looks like you're stuck with us, Reaper. Easier to keep an eye on you this way."
Death growled before he glared at Jaune, pointing at him. "Don't be so proud of yourself, Arc. I'll find a way to free myself. And when I do, your soul is mine," he said as he and Nimueh returned to their weapons.
"I wouldn't count on that," Jaune chuckled.
"Phew. Thank you, Sir Jaune."
"Anything for a friend. Now, why were you so excited before?"
"Ah. My other masterpiece. It is finally ready, Jaune."
"What is?"
The dwarf smiled. "Your Blessed Armor."
"My armor? It's finally done?"
"Indeed. Though, there is a catch."
"What is it?"
"Your Cursed Armor."
Jaune looked down. "The Wolf King's Garb?"
"Yes. Cursed Armor and Blessed Armor are polar opposites. It is impossible for them to be near one another without special magic. As such, you cannot follow me to your armor without first removing that."
"So, how do I give it back?"
"Oh, simple. You don't."
"Come again?"
"I do." The dwarf then did one of his odd dances.
Jaune's armor then began to glow before it turned back into mist. The mist then collected into the dwarf's hand, turning into the emblem it was before.
"Oh, and here. I've been keeping this cloth for you."
"My hoodie. I honestly forgot about that. Guess I was so used to the armor."
"I gave it a few enchantments. Nothing like the Cursed or Blessed Armor, but it can protect you. Not even chainmail can compare to this hood's defense," the dwarf explained as he handed Jaune back his Pumpkin Pete hoodie.
"It feels as light as ever."
"That's the power of enchantments, my good sir. Still, what an odd symbol. The mighty wolf wearing the head of a mere rabbit upon his chest. Is there significance to it?"
Jaune looked down at the mascot with a sad smile. "More than you know. Now, about that armor."
"Ah, yes." The dwarf snapped his fingers, a secret passage opening behind him. "Follow me," he said as he began to waddle down the stairs.
"Uh, Gol, I don't think that's big enough for you."
"Gol fine. Gol wait for Jaune here."
Jaune nodded to his friend before following the merchant. It was a bit of a walk, but Jaune could see light near the bottom. "So bright."
"That is how you can tell the quality of Blessed Armor. The brighter it shines before wear, the more powerful it is. Yours is among the purest I have ever seen. I even had to enchant myself to make sure it did not purify me into oblivion."
"IT COULD HAVE KILLED YOU?!"
"Yes. You must understand, Sir Arc, I am still a demon. Blessed items are still poisonous to creatures like me."
Jaune sighed. "Then I suppose I should be more grateful than ever before to you, my friend."
"Bah, no need for gratitude. This was one of my most enjoyable, challenging projects to date. You made this old devil feel alive again after so many millennia. Plus, you gave me PLENTY of tasty souls. You have more than repaid me, my boy."
Jaune laughed nervously at the soul bit but was still glad to have helped the demon.
Chupacabra then opened the door. "Here we are."
When the door began to even crack open, Jaune had to shield his eyes from the light. As the light flooded the hallway, Jaune's Grimm Arm began to burn. It felt like it was being stabbed by countless, white-hot needles. To protect it, Jaune reactivated his Aura and used his Semblance on his arm, protecting it from the light.
When the door was fully opened, and Jaune was able to adjust to the light, he saw his armor once more. "Whoa. It looks new. You even repaired the old cracks and battle damage. You even fixed my old gauntlet."
"Of course. I do not shirk my responsibilities, Sir Arc. Now for the true test. Place your hand upon the breastplate of the armor. Should the maiden accept you, you shall receive her gift, and the Blessed Armor shall be yours."
"Were you able to figure out who this 'maiden' is?"
The dwarf shook his head. "Such a thing is impossible to learn, even for one such as I. Whoever the maiden is must have a connection to that armor in some way or form."
"A connection?" Jaune's eyes widened. He then looked at his armor, specifically... the gold lining of it. "No... It couldn't be."
Jaune then looked at his naked, human arm, and slowly reached towards the armor. He hesitated just as he was about to touch it, only to place his hand on the armor. When he did, the light faded away.
"Is... something supposed to happen?"
"Had it rejected you, your hand would have been destroyed, leaving behind a bloody stump. However, the fact that nothing happened proves that you are at least worthy to wear it. Still, I am a bit disappointed. I was expecting to see-" The Chupacabra was interrupted when his face was illuminated, his eyes widening.
Jaune looked back at the armor, seeing a glowing hand within the armor itself. A small, fair, slender, feminine hand. The hand slowly and gently pushed back against Jaune's making him step back. Then, the head of a woman with long hair came out of the armor. The woman slowly looked up, her hair parting from her face, smiling at Jaune as tears welled up in her eyes.
Jaune's eyes widened in shock, tears welling up before they fell. "P-Pyrrha?"
Pyrrha's spirit gave a toothy smile as she smiled back happily. "Hello, Jaune," her voice echoed.
Jaune reached for her face, brushing the tears and hair off of her face as she leaned in against his palm. "Chupacabra, is it her? Is it really her?"
"You know her?"
"I do."
"Was she someone close? A lover, perhaps?"
Pyrrha looked sadly into Jaune's eyes, her smile becoming just as sad. Jaune bit his lip before tearfully placing his forehead against hers. "If I was wiser and less blind, she would have. No, she SHOULD have, but I was an undeserving fool back that. She... she was my partner... as well as my best friend."
"Mm, I see. Sadly, that is not her." Jaune didn't respond or react. "The Blessed Armor is only holding the residue of her soul. Her last thoughts. Her last memories. Her last remaining feelings. What is left of her mighty, kind, and holy spirit. That spirit is the remnant of the woman you once knew. However, in the end, that still is not the woman you once knew. That woman... is among the dead."
Jaune, his eyes shadowed but still flowing with tears, did not respond. Instead, he hugged the spirit of Pyrrha Nikos, surprising the ghostly beauty before she smiled and hugged him back.
"Spirit or not... I'm just thankful to see her one more time... after all these years. Chupacabra..."
"Hm?"
"Thank you."
Jaune had put his old armor back on, making sure the gauntlet was on properly.
"I must say, you look far more fetching in the Blessed Armor than the Cursed one," Chupacabra said.
"Hm?"
"The Cursed Armor is filled to the brim with Dark Magic. Wearing it, you seemed to be a warrior of the shadows, but I know the truth. That Blessed Sword at your hip, the Blessed Armor on your chest, your very soul; they are of the light. You are a rare being able to wield both light and darkness as one. A being capable of being the ultimate warrior, or even a savior."
Jaune looked down and sighed. "A savior. Me? No. I've failed far too many times," he said as he held up his arm. "And I've failed far too many people to be called a savior," he said as he placed his hand against his armor.
When he did, ethereal hands appeared, gently holding the Grimm Hand. Jaune looked up to see Pyrrha sadly looking down at his hand as she held it up, analyzing it.
"Is this... my fault?"
"What," Jaune went.
Pyrrha's spirit then began to tear up. "Oh, Jaune. What have I done to you? If only I hadn't hesitated as much as I did that day. I should have chosen to be the Fall Maiden sooner. I could have prevented this. I could have-"
"Pyrrha, stop it," Jaune went sternly as he gabbed Pyrrha's face, looking into her eyes. "None of this is your fault." He held up his arm. "These powers. This curse. This arm. They're my cross to bear, not yours. Don't you dare blame yourself for what I've become."
Pyrrha looked down sadly. "Alright. At least... at least let me help you. He may say I'm not the Pyrrha you once knew, but I'm still your partner," she said as she looked up with determined eyes.
Jaune smiled. "Always."
"Well, shall we continue explaining the powers of the Blessed Armor?"
Jaune looked at the smiling dwarf in surprise. "Powers?"
"Of course! Blessed Armor has many properties. It's not just unbreakable garb."
"My armor's unbreakable now?"
"Well, to an extent. Only Dark or Cursed Magic of the highest degree could damage it. Power I have no doubt Carmilla has in her possession." Jaune growled at her name. "However, Dark Magic and Curses will have very little effect on you as long as you wear that armor. Not even Death would have been able to harm you should you have worn that against him."
"Oh, NOW he tells me," Jaune goes with a roll of his eyes, making Pyrrha giggle.
"Not only that, but you also have some of the Holy Maiden's power."
Jaune and Pyrrha's eyes widened at that. "What," Jaune went.
The Chupacabra waddled up to Jaune, took Crocea Mors, and waddled to the other side of the room, placing it on a stool. "That should do. Now, concentrate."
Jaune looked at his sword before looking at his gauntlet-covered hand. "He can't be serious." He pointed his hand at the sword, concentrating. He then heard the familiar whirl, seeing his arm glow the same color as when Pyrrha uses her powers, his sword glowing the same color. Then, Crocea Mors flew into his grasp.
Jaune was shocked. "P-Pyrrha's Semblance. Polarity."
"An extraordinary power. You could be capable of a great many things with such an ability, Sir Arc."
Jaune wasn't listening. Instead, all he could do was stare at his sword, his tears falling onto the sheath, an overjoyed smile on his face. "It's like you really are back, Pyrrha," he said as he hugged his sword. Pyrrha's spirit also smiled as she hugged him from behind.
Jaune gently grabbed her hand as he put Crocea Mors back onto his hip, a stoic look on his face. "With my partner back at my side, I doubt even Carmilla can stop me now. It's time to end this."
"Just a moment," the dwarf called frantically.
"What is it?"
The dwarf cleared his throat. "You still have quite a few souls in your possession. Before you challenge the Countess of the Castle, why not purchase a few more items?"
Jaune opened his mouth before he just froze. "Huh. That's actually a really good idea."
Chupacabra laughed as he jumped around. "Then come! Come, come, back upstairs! We have plenty of merchandise," he said as he disappeared.
"Uh, Chupa?" Jaune then practically warped into the shop with his Beowolf speed. "I only need some Saint's Tears and another Emblem."
"Of course, of course," the dwarf said as he placed the ordered items on the counter for Jaune to collect. "Now, you seem to have plenty of souls. How about I improve your golem?"
Jaune looked at the shopkeeper in surprise before looking at Gol, who tilted his head in confusion at Jaune. Jaune then slammed his hands on the counter. "You can strengthen Gol?!"
"Of course! Child's play, Sir Arc. I can enhance his strength, harden his defenses, and heighten his resistance to magic. Sadly, you can't improve on a golem's speed."
"No, no, that's more than enough," Jaune went.
"Gol can get stronger?"
"Yeah, you can," Jaune said as he smiled at his friend.
"If Gol can help friend, then Gol happy. But Gol want to know."
"Know what, big guy?"
"Who spirit lady," he asked as he pointed at Pyrrha.
Jaune looked at Pyrrha, who looked back at him with a few blinks. Jaune smiled at her before looking back at Gol. "She's the spirit of one of my oldest and best friends. Someone I really cared about... and someone I know for a fact you would have loved if you met her as she was alive."
"If she friend of Jaune, then she my friend, too."
Pyrrha giggled. "Thank you. Please, take care of him for me."
"Me will always protect Jaune. That what friend do."
"Yes. Yes, it is," Pyrrha said before she disappeared, phasing back into the armor.
Jaune smiled at his armor before turning to the dwarf. "Now, about those upgrades."
LATER
Jaune flexed his Grimm Arm. "It feels so light now."
"Because there is now not a single soul left in that arm. Good thing, too! I have nothing left to sell! I have to restock now! Still, it does bring a smile to my heart to see such satisfied customers."
Jaune smiled at the little monster. "Thank you, my friend. I hope we can meet again soon."
"It may be sooner than you think, my dear werewolf."
Jaune sighed as he shook his head. "Not a werewolf. Goodbye," Jaune said as he and Gol left the shop.
"I wish you good fortune, my dear friend," Chupacabra said as he waved goodbye.
He gave a content sigh as he used his magic to make his shop disappear. He then hopped down and waddled towards the stairs before he stopped. "You know, I AM closing up shop. I have nothing to sell. How could I possibly help you, madam?"
A dark, feminine chuckle was heard. "Clever dwarf."
A Seer then fell from the ceiling. It began to crack before falling to the ground, smoke coming out. Then, Salem appeared.
"Ah, the famous Witch that gave Sir Arc his powers. To what do I owe the pleasure?"
"I just wanted to express my gratitude... as well as ask your opinion."
"My opinion? . . . Ah, I see. If you want to know my truth... I am unsure."
"Explain."
"Sir Arc is most certainly powerful, but Lady Carmilla's power has been increasing since he arrived. I do not know why. I fear she is hiding something. Which is why I am unsure of his victory."
"I see," Salem went. "Well, if by some miracle she defeats my son... then the rest of Remnant will swarm this castle and tear her to shreds in my name, with me personally leading the charge. And once I am done with her," she began as she leaned in towards the dwarf. "You will work for me."
"Mm, very well."
Salem giggled. "Good boy," she said as she poked his nose before vanishing.
The shopkeeper sighed before he sensed another presence. "My, so many visits. To what do I owe this most gracious audience," he began as the woman walked up.
"Lady Lenore?"
Jaune stood before the stairway leading to Carmilla's throne room, glaring upward, the moon's light slowly vanishing, symbolizing the near end of one of Jaune's longest nights yet.
Gol walked up from behind. "What wrong, Jaune?"
"Gol, this is it. The final battle. Once we go up these stairs, there's no going back. We either win and put an end to this nightmare, or lose and become Carmilla's newest pets. If we lose, then she might very well become unstoppable... even for my mother," he mumbled the last part. "I wouldn't blame you if you wanted to run and save yourself now. You just gained your freedom, after all. She might let you leave her domain. If she does, I can tell you where to go and who to find. I know for a fact Mary would welcome you, especially if you said I was the one who sent you, and called her this..." Jaune whispered into Gol's ear, just in case anyone was listening. "So, will you save yourself?"
In all honesty, Jaune was hoping Gol would run. He was hoping Gol would want to preserve himself and keep the freedom and humanity he had. Jaune was afraid he might not be strong enough to keep his friend safe and was so very tired of seeing those close to him die. He WANTED Gol to leave this burden to him and him alone.
Gol just stared at Jaune. He then looked towards the tower holding the throne room. "Me afraid. Me no think me strong enough to beat Carmilla. Me scared me hold Jaune back." Jaune had a slight smile, thinking Gol will run. "But me even more afraid of losing Jaune."
His eyes widened. "What?"
Gol looked at Jaune. "Jaune good man. Jaune hero. Jaune first friend. Me no want lose first friend. Me afraid of Carmilla, but me even more afraid of losing friend. Friend taught Gol what it meant to be human. If Jaune lose, everyone lose. All human lose. Me fight to live. Me fight for friend. Me fight for human. That what human do."
Jaune stared at Gol... as a tear fell down his cheek. Jaune sadly wiped the tear off, looking down sadly. "No. That's not what a human would do."
"Hm?"
Jaune looked at Gol with steely eyes. "That is what a MAN would do."
"Man? Me man?"
"Yes. A good man. . . As well as a brave one. A man who deserves to be called a hero."
"Me... hero?"
"Yeah. At the very least, you're MY hero."
"Me... Jaune's hero. . . Me human. Me man! Me Hero! ME JAUNE'S HERO! ME HAPPY! ME NO AFRAID!" Gol then roared, obviously pumped.
Jaune smiled at his partner before looking down at his "other partners". The Blessed Armor, holding the remnants of Pyrrha's spirit, almost as if she were with him once more. The Sword of Destruction, the strongest sword in the world with the wise Nimueh within it. The Vampire Killer, now arguably the only rival to the Sword of Destruction with the soul of Death himself residing within. Finally, his Crocea Mors, which has been his partner for years. Though it was not a Blessed weapon or Relic, it was still a sword he trusted with his life, saving him through countless ordeals, rebuilt and reforged countless times, and saving him just as many more.
He then held up his right arm, staring at his black palm before clenching it tightly enough for his claws to dig in, the sting of his own claws piercing him and clearing his mind.
He then looked up at the tower, eyes clear and steely. "Time to end this."
With that, both Jaune and Gol reeled back their fists and punched downward, the force of their blows sending them flying to the top of the stairs, both landing perfectly.
Jaune then glared at the massive doors before he effortlessly pushed them open. He and Gol walked in, not an ounce of fear in either of them.
The throne room was indeed magnificent: pillars of ivory, curtains of velvet, floors of marble bright enough to see your reflection on, and a crimson carpet that climbed stairs of silver. Jaune followed the stair with his eyes until he saw a mighty throne of oak and gold. He then saw his goal sitting upon it, the mage standing next to her.
"Carmilla."
She smiled. "Hello, Jaune. I believe this is the first time you and I truly saw one another. No illusions or spells here," she said as she extended her long, fair, dainty hand. The gesture showed off her long, sharp nails as red as her hair, lips, and outfit.
Jaune stared at the vampiress, his final obstacle. "You know, I truly do despise myself right now."
"Oh? Pray tell, for what reason, my dear," Carmilla asked with a smile.
"Because, despite everything you've done to me, everything you've put me through, and knowing what horrible things you are capable of... I still find you pleasant to the eyes. I still can't help but see you as beautiful."
Carmilla giggled as she placed her hands on her lap in an elegant manner that made her seem like true nobility. A true countess... or even a queen. "Then I say to you again: you have a refined taste in women, my dear wolf."
"Refined or not," Jaune began as he drew Crocea Mors. "I'm putting an end to this, once and for all."
Carmilla giggled. "Silly little werewolf. You seem to have forgotten that I am an almighty vampire! I am the Queen of the Vampires, beloved by the night, and through you and the power of Paradise, I will be the new Lord of Darkness! Tonight marks the birth of the new Goddess of the Night! You, my handsome werewolf, will taste my powers tonight!"
"By my own curse, I will make sure this world's night will NEVER bow to you!"
Carmilla laughed. "Interesting. Then, let us begin this final, delightful game between vampire and werewolf, where the servant will learn to bow before the master," she said with a smile that showed her pearly, shinning, and admittedly fear-inducing smile.
With that, Jaune and Gol took their stances, preparing for their final battle.
Jaune looked ready to attack before Carmilla raised her hand. "A moment." He didn't respond. He just stood there. "I'm giving you one last chance," she said as she raised one finger.
"That so," Jaune asked as his eyes sharpened.
"Of course. Do you realize how valuable you are, Jaune? How many creatures of the night can wield a Holy Sword? You've proven time and time again how powerful you are within my castle, defeating some of my most powerful subjects one after the other. You were even able to do what is supposed to be impossible for a Child of the Night by wearing Blessed Armor. Yet, what entertains and impresses me the most is that you were able to enslave that fool, Death," she giggled.
"Is there a point to this, Carmilla?"
She looked down at Jaune with a superior smile on her face. "I don't want to kill you. I want you to serve me, Arc. I always have since I first experienced your power. Such talent. Such potential. Such dark energy, mixed with the light, no less. Rare doesn't even begin to describe you. I want you for myself. True, I could always beat you to near death or until you submit to me and force you to be my loyal slave, or you could save us both the trouble and pledge your loyalty to me."
Jaune stared at Carmilla. He then deactivated his greatsword and placed the sheath back on his belt, confusion Gol and even Hastile, while Carmilla smirked.
Jaune then grabbed the Vampire Killer and cracked the chain whip, leaving a deep imprint on the marble floor. "Did you really think I'd follow you THAT easily," Jaune asked with a dark look in his eye.
Carmilla giggled. "I suppose not." She then pointed her hand at him.
Jaune then yelled out in pain as the same spell she used when they first met was affecting him.
"JAUNE," Gol yelled before he roared at Carmilla. He would have run towards her had an ice wall not completely blocked the path to her.
"You won't go anywhere near here, monstrosity," Hastile said as he lowered his hand.
Jaune groaned but did not fall.
"Impressive. Obviously, I am far more powerful in person than as a hallucination, so it's quite the feat that you can still stand despite you falling to your knees and screaming towards the very heavens last time."
"Don't... you... dare... UNDERESTIMATE ME," Jaune roared as he broke out of Carmilla's spell, shattering the ice wall from the sheer force of his escape.
"Ooh," Carmilla went, honestly impressed.
Jaune then swung the Vampire Killer around to gain momentum before swinging towards Carmilla. The chain sped in her direction at great speeds, time slowing down just as it began to reach her face, Carmilla smiling at the sight.
Then, the sound of the wind howling was heard.
Hastile let out a shocked gasp as he saw the chain was about to strike him in the face, the sharpened top of the battle cross surely about to go through his head. He looked to see that it was caught in wind magic before looking down to see Carmilla's fingers pointing at it without her looking.
"Clever wolf, going after my sorcerer before me." She then released the spell, the chain speeding back into its home. Jaune spun the cross in his hand expertly before taking out his Sword of Destruction, taking a stance once more.
She rested her head on her fist, smiling down at Jaune. "Instead of attacking me, you went after my last subordinate, who would do all that was within his power to protect me. A wise choice. You're quite the strategist."
"My Queen, please allow me to deal with this insubordinate beast," Hastile said with a bow. Carmilla continued to smile down at Jaune. As she was, she waved her hand at Hastile, signaling her permission was being given.
Hastile then began to float down towards Jaune and Gol, floating in mid-air above them. "You will pay for this, Arc."
Jaune smirked. "I doubt that, Hastile. You may have been able to summon warriors against me last time, but I got my powers back. Know what that means?"
"Enlighten me."
"I can do that trick, too," Jaune said as he swung his arm.
When he did, Grimm Pools appeared, Beowolves crawling out with snarls, barks, and howls. Jaune smirked before he noticed something. 'This is only half of what I can usually summon. What's going on,' he thought.
"Ooh, I like that look on your face, Sir Jaune."
He looked up at the smirking Carmilla. The realization then hit Jaune. "That's why I felt incomplete. Why I didn't feel as strong when I got my power back from Striga. Why it feels like I'm straining the elasticity in my right arm." He then glared at Carmilla. "You have half of my power!"
Carmilla's smile grew into a toothy smirk. "Correct," she said as she snapped her fingers.
When she did, the same amount of Beowolves Jaune created appeared.
"And here's something even more interesting. Hastile."
"Yes, Your Majesty." Hastile then spread out his arms. Light orbs of different colors then began to glow around Hastile. The orbs then flew toward the Beowolves. The beasts then began to growl in a low and pained tone.
Then, they began to change. One Beowolf burst into flames. Moments later, it walked out of the towering inferno with orange claws, a red skull, and flames rushing down its back. When it roared, a wave of fire shot out.
The next one was encased in ice. When the ice shattered, it was a Solitas Beowolf.
The third one began to shake a bit before lightning shot out of its paws. Then, its claws became lightning itself, its skull looking like it was live-wired, electricity flowing through its opened maw.
The fourth one grew rocks all over its body while the fifth one next to grew steel claws.
The sixth one had black smoke forming out of it, turning practically invisible in the darkness.
Then, the final one looked like it was made of pure energy, with little explosions occurring around it.
Jaune growled at the sight. "You've enchanted them."
"These forces can be yours, you know. Just imagine what we could accomplish together, Jaune."
"I'd rather not."
Carmilla sighed, her smile never going away. "Pity. . . Dinner time~," she went in a sing-song voice.
The Enchanted Beowolves roared in response, charging toward their query. Jaune roared as well, his Beowolves and Gol doing the same before they all charged at their adversary, the final battle now officially beginning.
Jaune's whip struck the face of the Energy Beowolf, causing a small explosion. The Stone Beowolf jumped through the smoke, lunging at Jaune as his chain retracted. Before it could reach Jaune, Gol caught it by the head and threw it towards the floating Hastile, who was hit point blank, slamming into the wall.
Gol was then struck by the Lightning Beowolf, electricity shooting from its claws. Gol looked toward the Beowolf before stomping toward it. "That no hurt me. Me was given life by lightning. You only make me STRONGER," Gol went as he prepared to punch the Beowolf.
However, he was frozen by the Ice Beowolf. The beast looked ready to pounce on the frozen hero before it was pounced upon itself by one of Jaune's Beowolves. The two Grimm were now rolling around, barking and snarling at each other as they bit and slashed each other.
Jaune was running towards Gol, ready to see if Nimueh would destroy the ice without hurting Gol. As he got close to his frozen friend, he felt a slash at his leg, making him trip. He was able to roll o safety, looking to see his Beowolves fighting Carmilla's but none of them were nearly close enough to hit him.
He then felt his face getting slashed. He grabbed the Sword of Destruction and slashed in the direction before his Grimm Arm was slashed from behind. Jaune activated the Vampire Killer's stake and stabbed behind him, only to hit the air. He then sniffed the air, smelling that there was indeed a Beowolf near him. 'The invisible one, huh? Where are you,' Jaune thought.
He sniffed the air more before his eyes widened. "THERE," he went as he swung his battle cross downward in the direction, crushing the marble with the chain whip. "Oh, you're good," Jaune went.
When he said that, the still invisible Beowolf was about to pounce on him, planning on tearing at him until his Aura broke, subduing him.
Fortunately for Jaune, his Beowolves had a better sense of smell than even him, his putting a bloodhound's nose to shame. That's why it was so easy for Jaune's Beowolf to pounce on the invisible one. Jaune looked to see his Grimm bite into the neck of its opponent, a roar being heard as black blood and smoke escaped the loyal beast's teeth.
Jaune was about to once again run to Gol again when the Steel Beowolf jumped over Gol and lunged toward him.
Then, before Jaune could even think, his left arm shot forward, glowing. The Steel Beowolf froze in mid-air, obviously struggling to move. Jaune looked at his arm and smiled. "Thank you, Pyrrha."
"Your welcome~," Pyrrha's voice went in his mind with her famous sing-song tone.
Jaune's expression then turned serious as he threw the beast towards Carmilla, claws first.
Carmilla merely sat on her throne, head resting on her fist, smiling as the beast got closer at bullet speeds. She then merely raised her hand, preparing a flick. The claws went past her slender arm, not even grazing her sleeve. Then, before the claws got so much as a centimeter close to her neck, she flicked, sending the Beowolf flying. The creature then landed... headless. Its head landed near its body moments later before fading away.
'So his Blessed Armor's Grace is Polarity, is it? That could be useful,' she thought with a smile.
Jaune sucked his teeth before placing the Sword's blade on the ice. "Nimueh, please shatter the ice without hurting Gol."
"Heh. Child's play." The ice then shattered, Gol groaning as he grabbed his head.
"You alright," Jaune asked Gol.
"I fine. I can fight," he said as he stood proudly. Jaune smiled at his friend before he was struck by the Stone Beowolf. "JAUNE!"
Before Gol could glare at his attacker, he was frozen once more by his feet and legs. He looked up to see an angry-looking Hastile floating towards Jaune before he glared at Gol. "Stay out of this, atrocity. I'll deal with you later."
He then glared at Jaune, who was wrestling to get the Stone Beowolf off of him since he dropped both of his weapons, currently preventing the beast from biting his face off. Jaune didn't know it if was because of the Enchantment or because Carmilla had half of his strength, but he was struggling against this powerful beast.
Jaune then heard crackling and looked behind the Beowolf to see Hastile charging up a ball of black and red lightning. "Oh, crap."
"This may not be able to kill you, but not even YOU will be able to remain conscious after this strikes you, Arc."
Jaune knew Hastile was right. Throwing caution to the wind, Jaune moved his Grimm arm into the creature's jaw, letting it chomp down onto it. Jaune then used his now free arm to try to punch through the Beowolf's eye, only for his fist to bounce off the stone skull, his hand now shaking a bit from the impact. His next plan was to use Pyrrha's Semblance to call the Vampire Killer over to him, planning to use the stake to stab through the creature's head.
Unfortunately for Jaune, Carmilla decided to use her magic on him, the force of gravity and power sending unimaginable pain through Jaune's body as he screamed bloody murder.
"Now, now. Taking your punishment like a good, little dog. Hastile?"
"Yes, My Queen."
"NO! NO HURT, JAUNE," Gol yelled.
"I thought I told you to be silent, golem. Your time will come soon enough!" Hastile's eyes were now glowing red and sparking black. "SUBMIT, WEREWOLF," Hastile roared as he threw the lightning ball.
Gol then growled, his Aura beginning to glow. "I... said... No. . . HURT! . . . JAUNE," he roared as his body began to glow blue.
The lightning orb then stopped.
"WHAT," Hastile went.
The orb then flew out of Hastile's control. He looked to see where it was going, only to see it getting absorbed by Gol.
Gol then let out a furious roar, his body coursing with electricity, easily breaking out of the ice now. He then fell to his knees before looking up at Hastile with an angered roar as he opened his mouth. Something was obviously charging in it, which is why Hastile put up a barrier.
"TAKE IT," Gol roared as he fired his laser beam.
Hastile's barrier kept it at bay... before it began to crack. "WHAT?! IMPOSSIBLE! NOTHING SHOULD BE ABLE TO BREAK THROUGH MY MAGIC!" He then noticed that the beam was black and red, his eyes widening in realization. "Unless... it IS my magic. No. No, no, no. No. No! NO! NOOOO! THIS CAN'T BE HAPPENIIIIIIIIIIIIIAAAAA-" he screamed as he was disintegrated by Gol's laser, which was fueled with Hastile's own magical lightning.
Carmilla was honestly surprised to see a golem kill her sorcerer. So much so, that she didn't even realize that she canceled her spell, nor notice Jaune using his Blessed Armor's Grace to grab the Vampire Killer and stab the Stone Beowolf through the eye, killing it.
Carmilla looked up to see the smoldering hole in her ceiling, letting the remaining moonlight shine through. She looked at the panting Gol, who was struggling to stand back up due to the ice and exhaustion and actually clapped her hands. "Bravo. Bravo," she said seductively.
Jaune rushed over to Gol, helping him up. "You alright?"
"Me fine. Hurt and tired, but me can still fight."
Jaune smiled in relief. "I'm glad. Still, I'm amazed. I can't believe you already unlocked your Semblance."
"Sem... blance?"
"How you were able to redirect Hastile's spell. When you called it towards you. That HAD to be your Semblance."
"What is that?"
"It's the power developed from our Aura. It's the manifestation of our innate and personal power. You can only use it... if you have a soul."
"A soul? Me soul give me Semblance?"
"Yeah. This is more proof, Gol. No matter what anyone says or thinks... you're human."
Gol looked down and placed his hand where his heart is. "Me Semblance... is more proof me human. Me... me human."
Jaune then sighed. "I just wish your Semblance wasn't so dangerous. You're like a lightning rod, absorbing a hit meant for me."
"No." Jaune looked at Gol. "Me happy that me Semblance."
"What?"
"Me want to protect Jaune. Me want to protect human. Me strong. Me can handle everything. Me am proud to be a lightning rod! That what me Semblance is!" Gol then stood up tall and proud. "Me Semblance is Lightning Rod! No matter what, me will protect friend! Me will protect human! Me will keep fighting!" Gol then roared confidently.
Jaune smiled at Gol.
'He's truly amazing,' Pyrrha said in Jaune's mind.
'Yeah. He is,' Jaune thought as he stood up next to Gol. "Let's go, partner." Gol roared in response.
Carmilla just smiled at the duo, her head resting on her fist once more. "Did you know, Golem?"
"Huh?"
"In a past life, I was your creator, not Frankenstein. You look exactly alike, you Golem Brothers," she giggled. "You were not the first to gain awareness. He was."
"What happen... to Gol's brother?"
"I honestly don't know. Last I saw him was within an enchanted castle between space and time."
"Space and time," Jaune mumbled in confusion.
"If I had to guess... he's probably dead. Destroyed by some nameless vampire hunter." Gol lowered his head, obviously sad knowing his "brother" was dead, never to be able to meet him. "Still, it doesn't matter." Gol looked up. Jaune could feel the anger boiling within his friend. "After all, his power... was NOTHING compared to what you possess."
Carmilla then stood up, her remaining Beowolves standing protectively at the base of the stairway. Carmilla then slowly walked down the stairs. "You have exceeded your predecessor in every possible way. Your strength, power, durability, and even your intelligence surpass his own. If that wasn't enough, our dear Arc bestowed upon you more, even greater power. You are an exceptional creature, my dear. And so, I give you this chance to join me."
"You... want me to betray Jaune?"
Carmilla giggled. "Of course not. I want you to join me and CONVINCE him to be a part of us. The mightiest Golem ever made, the most powerful werewolf ever to live, and the Queen of the Vampires who will become the greatest Lord of Darkness existence has ever seen; one so powerful that Dracula himself will pale in comparison to me. What better hierarchy could there possibly be? Come, Gol. Come and be at Mama's side," she said as she extended her hand.
Gol stared at the outstretched hand before glancing at Jaune. He then looked down. "Jaune... could have killed Gol. Gol knows that anyone else would have."
"Such is the cruelty of man, but Jaune knew better, for he is far beyond humanity, much like you."
"Jaune said... humans would accept Gol."
"He is wrong. The heart of man is cold, dark, and wicked. They would judge you by simply looking upon you, seeing nothing more than a monster made of metal and meat. Jaune only thinks they will accept you merely because he still retains his humanity. He would not understand what it would be for you."
". . . Gol... does not believe that."
"Oh?"
"Jaune save Gol. He gave Gol name. He showed me what it was like to be human. . ." Gol looked up. "What is like to be man! Gol trusts Jaune! Has faith in Jaune! If Jaune believe Gol can be accepted, then so does Gol! Jaune called Gol hero, and hero Gol will be! Me protect Jaune! Me protect human! ME PROTECT REMNANT!" Gol then roared as he grabbed the Solitas Beowolf that lunged at him before throwing it towards Jaune's Beowolves, who tore it apart and absorbed its frozen body to become Solitas Beowolves themselves, the proud Grimm roaring at Carmilla.
"Mm, what a shame," Carmilla said as she stopped halfway down the stairs, her eyes closed as her head was down, but her smile never went away. "Jaune?"
"What," he growled.
She then smiled down at him, her eyes glowing brightly. "Did you know? Dracula was an exceptionally powerful sorcerer."
"And that should matter to me, why?"
"He was a master of the dark arts, able to conjure spells that could decimate entire armies in mere seconds, cause entire countries to crumble before him, and scar the very planet itself. A vampire truly worthy of being called the Lord of Darkness."
"None of that matters to me, Carmilla. He's not here, but you are."
"Exactly. I AM HERE. I have outlived him... and learned his secrets."
Jaune's eyes widened in realization. "Oh, crap."
Carmilla smirked. "Clever wolf." She then held up her hands, a magic circle appearing above her as a massive black orb appeared. "THIS IS THE DEMONIC MEGIDDO, DRACULA'S MOST POWERFUL SPELL! BEHOLD THE POWER OF DARKNESS!" She sent the attack toward the two.
Gol quickly jumped in front of Jaune and held up his massive hands. He was now pushing back against the spell, roaring in exertion. Jaune held his hands in front of Gol, activating his own Semblance to strengthen Gol's powerful Aura. As the two pushed back against the powerful spell, Carmilla's Beowolves tried to attack Jaune, only for them to be pushed back by his own.
It was a vicious stalemate, Beowolves on Beowolves, Jaune and Gol holding back the Demonic Megiddo as best they could, with Carmilla smiling at the entire scene, her smile only growing when Jaune and Gol gave defiant roars.
Then, as the force pushed up clouds of dust and smoke, the Energy Beowolf jumped out and tackled Jaune. He looked at the beast in shock as it roared at him before glowing completely. Then, it exploded, detonating the Megiddo along with it, Carmilla laughing triumphantly at the demonically bright force before her.
Raven was pacing back and forth, an angry look in her eyes. She was pacing in front of her scroll, near her open window, her door wide open.
"Raven?" She glared to see Sun standing in the hallway. "It's alright. You don't need to be worried."
She turned towards Sun, arms crossed, hip out. "Worried? Jaune's been missing all night. Ten. Full. Fucking. Hours. No one has had any contact with him. His Beowolves, which should be able to find him from the other side of Remnant can't track him. Not even Mary can find him, and she's been flying like a maniac, exhausting nearly ALL of her Dust reserves. Winter's soldiers can't find so much as a TRACE of him. Lyra is terrified she might lose another member of her family, it's taking Glynda everything she can to keep order in the Resistance, and I had to lie to the kids about their father. Solis is just a baby, Gelb is easy to trick, and I'm lucky enough that Nix is with her mother, but Phoenix isn't a normal child. She's smart. She knows something is wrong. The Hero of Remnant, the Hope of Humanity, the second man I've ever actually loved, and the father of my daughter and son IS MISSING! WHAT THE FUCK DO I HAVE TO BE WORRIED ABOUT, WUKONG?!"
Sun just stood there, listening to Raven's rant, letting her vent out. When she was done, she let out a sigh as she stood at the window, looking down from it. She looked so tired. She hasn't slept a wink since she tried to call Jaune a few hours after their last conversation. Sun couldn't blame her. He was worried, too. His best friend and leader was missing, and no one knew where to even begin to look.
Sun then placed his hand on Raven's shoulder. He knew it was risky, but he took the chance to try and comfort his friend. "It's alright, Raven. This is the same guy who survived a fight against Salem herself. Jaune's tough, stubborn, and smart. How else did he get to lay a babe like you?"
"Watch it, kid. I may look like this, but I'm still old enough to be your grandma."
"And yet you have a cute kid like Phoenix and still badass enough to help fight off monsters like Cinder, and she's a combination of you and Jaune now. Grimmkind and Maiden." Sun shivered. "Glad you never went through that."
Raven stared at Sun before looking back out at the moonlit night. "I wasn't interested in it, and Salem didn't need me to be one. She just needed a Maiden to be loyal and useful to her. Luckily, I was smart enough to act the part."
"And Jaune was able to get with a babe that smart and tough. You really think a guy like that is gonna end up dead or beaten? He has you and two other superpowered beauties and a litter of pups to get back to, right?"
Raven chuckled. "Yeah. He does. If that idiot leaves those kids fatherless, I will kill him."
"See? Now he really needs to get back," Sun said with a smile.
Raven smiled before looking at Sun. "Thank you, Sun."
"Any time, Rae," he said as he patted her shoulder.
A loud boom was then heard, followed by a rumble. The two warriors looked in the direction of the noise and rumbling in shock.
"What the hell was that," Sun went.
Without hesitating, Raven jumped out and transformed, flying toward the direction of the event.
"Raven, WAIT," Sun called as he reached for the far-off bird.
Raven's scroll then rang, Sun answering it. "Hello?!"
'SUN?! WHAT THE HELL?! THIS IS SUPPOSED TO BE RAVEN'S NUMBER!'
"It is, Mary! She just flew off!"
'Towards that explosion, I'm betting?'
"You'd win that bet. You're heading towards it, too, right?"
'Damn right! There's only one reason I can think of for an explosion that big to happen!'
"Jaune. Sit tight. Lyra and I will be on our-"
'No. Raven and I should be more than enough. You need to stay at the base.'
"What? But Mary, I-"
'You're currently the only high-ranking officer at the base. No way that explosion didn't scare at least someone, especially causing that rumble. You know exactly what something like that could attract. We may have killed all the Kings in that area, but that doesn't mean their Grimm will be any less active.'
Sun sighed, knowing full well that Mary was right. "Alright. Just be careful, got it?"
'Got it. Oh, and Sun?'
"Yeah?"
'If you let anything happen to my baby boy, I will personally turn you into BBQ.' Sun shivered at Mary's threat. 'And if you think I'm bad, don't forget how Raven gets when she's mad, ESPECIALLY when it has something to do with her kids.'
"Got it. I'll stay. I'll keep the kids safe."
'Good Wukong.' Mary then hung up.
"Uncle Sun?" He looked to see little Phoenix in the hallway, adorably rubbing her eye as she was holding her equally sleepy Beowolf pup, the custom-made Grimm giving a cute yawn in her arm. "Where's mom?"
Sun smiled as he walked over and knelt down towards his "niece", lovingly rubbing her head. "She's off to get your dad back."
"Dad's coming back home?"
"Yeah. So let's get you back to sleep. When you wake up, he'll be back with your mom."
"Really?"
"Aren't your parents the coolest and strongest heroes in Remnant," Sun asked with a smile and raised an eyebrow. Phoenix nodded in response. "Then that answers your question." Phoenix smiled in response, a toothy, childish, adorable smile. "Now, let's get you back to sleep," Sun said as he extended his hand, which Phoenix took, and the two walked back to her room.
Sun then looked out a nearby window, a stern look on his face that Phoenix was fortunate enough not to notice. 'I sure hope I'm right, Jaune.'
Meanwhile, as the smoke cleared, Carmilla's throne room was revealed to be in ruins. The entire ceiling was blown off, her curtains were in tatters, there were holes in the floor that showed just how far up the tower was, and the walls were still crumbling.
In the middle of the ruined tower lay Gol, his mouth gaping open, smoke floating out of it. Behind him was Jaune, on the ground in an infamous death pose, motionless. Both of their Auras shattered, light blue and golden energy shattering off of them and floating away like dust, along with the black dust of the fallen Beowolves.
Carmilla smiled at the sight as she began to walk down her stairs. As soon as she took her third step, she stopped.
Her keen eyesight allowed her to see Jaune's hand twitch, as well as Gol's jaw tremble. Then, Jaune's hand clenched into a fist before he punched the ground, pushing himself up with strained groans. Gol then slammed his mouth shut as he also struggled to get back up, groaning and growling as he did so.
The two then got onto their feet, both releasing defiant roars.
"My, my, you both survived." They both glared at the smirking Carmilla. "Impressive. I dare say that would have been able to kill Alucard, or even Dracula himself."
"It's a good thing I'm neither," Jaune said as he called his Sword of Destruction and Vampire Killer. "Let's end this, leech!"
Carmilla giggled. "Very well. Let us enjoy one last dance on this moonlit night, gentlemen," she said with a seductive hiss at the end.
Carmilla smiled at her enemies, seeing how exhausted they were. Using her supernatural speed, she appeared at the bottom of the stairs, still looking as elegant as ever. "Tell me, gentlemen, do you honestly think you could have a dance with me in your current state?"
Jaune just glared at Carmilla before he smirked. "Good point."
Carmilla raised an eyebrow.
Jaune holstered Vampire Killer and reached behind him and took out two bottles of Saint's Tears.
Carmilla's eyes widened. "That liquid. Is that-?"
"Gol, drink this," Jaune said as he tossed a bottle at Gol, who caught it.
"What is it?"
"Chupacabra sold them to me. They've saved me plenty of times in this castle. It's some kind of elixir that heals your wounds and even regenerates your Aura." Jaune then bit off the top, spat it out, and guzzled down the red liquid. He then threw the glass away, shattering it, the red smoke floating up as all of Jaune's previous wounds healed, his Aura flashing back.
When Gol saw that, he wasted no time in breaking off the top and pouring the drink down his throat. Moments later, his wounds were gone and his Aura was recharged. He roared at Carmilla in anticipation.
Jaune smirked. "Sorry, Carmilla. We can now give you that dance, m'lady," Jaune said condescendingly.
Carmilla's eyes were shadowed. "Sir Jaune, you said that drink has saved you countless times within my castle, correct?"
Jaune got serious. "Yeah. I hate to admit it, but without it, I probably would have been killed a long time ago, or worse, brought to you in a battered mess."
"So... you've consumed quite a bit of it, correct?"
Jaune raised an eyebrow before he went back to glaring at her. "Yes."
Carmilla remained still... until she smirked. "Gooood."
She then held out her hand toward Jaune. Jaune then felt like countless needles were piercing through him, making him as stiff as a statue. He then began to levitate, floating towards Carmilla.
"JAUNE," Gol cried as he tried to reach for Jaune, only to roar in pain before he was slammed into the ground. He looked up to see Carmilla pointing her other hand toward him.
Carmilla smirked cruelly at the downed hero. "Down, boy," she said cruelly.
"How?" She glanced at Jaune as he got close to her. "How are you... doing this," he strained to say.
Carmilla giggled. "Oh, Jaune, you silly little pup, what do you think the Saint's Tears are made from?"
"What?"
"A potion that can cure all wounds and revitalize magic? Do you think alchemy or sorcery can make such a thing using mere plants and crystals or something? True, herbs are mixed in, but there is a far more important, powerful ingredient to the mix. Blood."
Jaune's eyes widened. "I've... been drinking blood?"
"Yes. MY blood."
"W-WHAT?!"
Carmilla laughed. "How else could such potent medicine be made but from an almighty immortal?! Still, this PROVES that you were destined to be mine. A mere mortal would have died the moment a single drop touched their lips. Vampire blood is traditionally poison, and even the Saint's Tears is toxic to those of weaker spirits. It's especially deadly to werewolves, more so than even Wolf's Bane or silver. But you? You've been relying on it. Regaining your lost strength from it. Your power. Your strength. Your life itself. It thrives thanks to me," she said as she grabbed Jaune by the throat.
Carmilla then tightened her grip on Jaune's neck out of pure sadism, making him gag. "And now, you will repay your debt to me by becoming my servant. You may begin... by quenching my burning thirst."
She then snapped her fingers, blood needles shooting out from all over Jaune's body below the neck. The pain was so intense that Jaune couldn't stop himself from screaming, no matter how hard he tried. Then, his Aura shattered once more, Jaune panting in pain and agony.
Carmilla licked her lips in anticipation. "Thank you for this most delectable meal." She then hissed as she opened her mouth, her fangs gleaming. She then slowly closed in on Jaune's exposed neck, preventing him from moving using her blood in his veins.
However, before her fangs could even touch the skin of Jaune's neck, his armor began to glow. It then began to shine brightly, so much so that Carmilla screamed as she shielded her now burning face.
Jaune was barely able to look past the light. But when he was able to, he saw Pyrrha, hugging him from behind, glaring angrily at Carmilla. "DON'T YOU TOUCH HIM," Pyrrha yelled.
Carmilla growled viciously at Pyrrha, her eyes filled with rage. "You insolent, insignificant, worthless, pathetic spirit! How dare you?! You, the mere remnants of a human woman long since dead! You DARE stand in my way?! YOU?!" Carmilla then tried to reach for Jaune, Pyrrha's burning light keeping her at bay, burning away the vampire's flesh. "YOU ARE BUT THE RESIDUAL SOUL OF A MERE MORTAL! YOU HAVE NO PLACE HERE, GHOST! NO MERE MORTAL CAN STAND IN MY WAY! IN ANY VAMPIRE'S WAY! OUR SOULS ARE ETERNAL! WE ARE IMMORTAL! I AM IMMORTAL!"
Pyrrha's eyes widened in horror when she saw Carmilla pushing past her light, getting closer to Jaune.
"I AM THE QUEEN OF THE VAMPIRES! THE LORD OF DARKNESS! THE GODDESS OF THE NIGHT!"
Pyrrha was beginning to strain and struggle, hugging Jaune even tighter than before.
"I! AM! CARMILLA!"
With that last roar, Carmilla broke through Pyrrha's Aura Barrier and grabbed Jaune by the neck. Without any hesitation, she dragged Jaune over towards her, making Pyrrha disappear with a look of horror as she vainly reached towards Jaune, and viciously plunged her fangs into Jaune's neck. As his blood spewed from his neck, all Jaune could do was howl in agony, his Beowolf fangs fully released, and his pained roar echoing throughout the land as Carmilla drank his blood.
Jaune groaned as Carmilla sucked his blood, unable to move due to her paralysis of his blood. However, Carmilla only had three sips.
On the third one, her eyes shot open. She then pushed Jaune away, ending her hold on him. Jaune held his neck in anger before glaring at Carmilla. When he did, his eyes widened in shock and confusion. Carmilla looked like she was choking, gasping as she was holding her throat, struggling to stand.
Jaune stared at her before realization hit him. He ran towards Gol, grabbing his Vampire Killer and the Sword of Destruction as he did, sliding to Gol's side. "You alright?"
"Me can still fight," Gol strained as he struggled to get back up.
"I'm sorry. if I had known that drink was made from her blood, I would have never-"
"Jaune not know drink was evil. Not Jaune's fault. But we in trouble. Blood still in our veins."
Jaune looked down to see a blood spike in his arm. He then got an idea. "Gol, you think you can shock the blood out of us?"
"What?"
Jaune held his arm towards him. "Send a bolt of electricity into me, through this spike in my arm. This is a ridiculously huge gamble, but I'm hoping you can burn Carmilla's blood away, leaving behind only my Grimm and hopefully human blood."
Gol shook his head. "It too dangerous."
"I know. But it's a risk we have to take. Please."
Gol looked at Jaune's arm before he gently grabbed the spike. "No die."
"No plans to do so," Jaune said with a smirk.
Gol then unleashed a storm's worth of electricity through himself and Jaune.
After a few moments, Jaune was on his hands, panting heavily. "Oh, that hurt."
"You feel better?"
"Honestly. . . Much," Jaune said as he stood back up.
"Gol feel better, too. Me still can fight," he said as he stood up.
"We may not need to, anymore." Gol looked at Jaune before he looked at the now slumped-over Carmilla. "Seems my blood is poisonous to vampires. Tough break, Carmilla," Jaune said with a smirk.
"Poison? Poison? This is no poison." Jaune got worried when he heard her speak, getting ready to use the Vampire Killer's chain. "This is..." Carmilla then looked up with an insane look in her eyes. "Ambrosia."
Carmilla then unleashed a wave of dark energy that pushed the two back, forcing them to cover themselves from the intense pressure of her power.
"Three sips. Three glorious sips. That's all it took for me to gain so... Much... POWER!" She cackled as her power made the tower crumble even more. "I FEEL INVINCIBLE!" Her power was so immense that it destroyed the hairpieces keeping her hair in check, her crimson mane flying high and bright like a burning flag. "Dracula himself wouldn't be a match for what I am now! My power is OVERFLOWING! With this, the night is mine to rule! PARADISE IS WITHIN REACH! And if drinking the blood of the son made me this mighty, I can't even DREAM of how powerful I'll become once I drink the blood of the mother!"
Jaune's eyes widened. "Mother. YOU STAY AWAY FROM HER," he roared.
Carmilla looked down at him with a dark smile. "Concern for the witch, I see. Or are you concerned about how powerful I'll be once I drink a being who is stronger than you?"
Jaune's eyes widened.
"Yes, Jaune. I know. I know that as powerful as you are, you're still second to your mother. I know that you've only been able to challenge her with the help of your Holy Sword. Without it, you would have been hers long ago. But after this dance, you shall be mine. You will help me wage a glorious battle against her. She shall fall before our feet, and I shall partake in the sweet nectar she calls blood. Once her powers are mine... GOD HIMSELF WON'T BE ABLE TO CHALLENGE ME!" She then laughed madly at that.
Jaune growled like a Beowolf. "YOU REALLY THINK I'LL LET THAT HAPPEN?!" He then readied his sword along with his whip.
Carmilla smirked at him. "Do you really think you can stop me? ME, THE MISTRESS OF EVIL ITSELF?!" She then held out her arms, and three massive fireballs appeared before her. "BEHOLD, MY DEAR WOLF, THE AWESOME POWER OF DARKNESS!" She then fired all of the huge fireballs at Jaune and Gol.
Jaune stomped forward in a drawing stance. When the fireballs got close enough, Jaune swung his legendary sword, destroying all of the fireballs at once.
However, through the smoke shot out Carmilla's hand. The powerful vampiress grabbed Jaune by the face and slammed him to the ground. Gol tried to punch her, but Carmilla instead deflected his attack and threw Jaune into him, the two smashing through a door.
Carmilla laughed at her own work as she patted her hands together to calm herself.
Jaune groaned as he got up.
"Jaune okay," Gol asked.
"I should be asking you that," Jaune said as he got off Gol, helping the large golem up.
"Come, gentlemen." They looked at the slowly approaching Carmilla, her hair flowing freely, beautifully, and darkly. "The night is about to end, but our dance need not end so soon," she said as she formed more fireballs.
Jaune growled as he cracked his Vampire Killer and swung his Sword of Destruction. "No. IT ENDS NOW!" Jaune charged at Carmilla, Gol rolling alongside him.
Carmilla sent the massive fireballs, Jaune destroying them with his Vampire Killer. The few that got close were destroyed by his Sword of Destruction. When he got close enough, he jumped towards Carmilla, swinging his sword downward.
Carmilla merely stepped to the side, the force of Jaune's slash cutting her throne and most of the tower in half. She then backhanded Jaune in the face, but it was enough to send him flying. Gol then punched her with enough force to make the floor beneath Carmilla crack.
"Ow. That stung," Carmilla said with a cheeky smile. She then palm-struck Gol with enough force to send him flying as well.
Carmilla then cried out in pain when her hand was struck by the Vampire Killer's chain. She then glared at the charging Jaune. "Death. So your magic can hurt me in this state? Impressive, but I can't help but laugh at how you've LOWERED yourself, death god!" Jaune could sense anger coming from his battle cross. "You will NEVER beat me, reaper," Carmilla said as she channeled electricity in her hand and unleashed a wave of lighting towards Jaune.
Without hesitation, Jaune held up the cross, blocking the lightning. He was surprised to see that the cross actually absorbed and held the lightning. He didn't hesitate to point the cross back toward Carmilla, blasting the magic right back at her. She was hit point blank, pushing her back, the woman falling to one knee, groaning in pain.
Jaune chuckled. "What was that about Death not being able to beat you?" At that moment, Jaune could actually FEEL Death's smug pride.
Carmilla chuckled herself. "Well played, Sir Arc, but thanks to your blood and years of experience, I am no ordinary vampire to be slain by a fallen god in servitude to a man. Even a man such as you. I am Countess Carmilla Karnstein, Queen of the Vampires, and Goddess of the Night! YOUR new goddess! And I have had ENOUGH!" She then created the largest fireball yet, larger than even her Demonic Megiddo.
Jaune watched as the ball of death, far too large to simply run away from, charged toward him. It took all he and Gol had to survive the Demonic Megiddo, and they both had their Auras intact. They couldn't defend or endure something like this. It would have killed them. So, Jaune only had the choice of destroying it.
There was one problem: lack of Aura.
The Sword of Destruction gets stronger the more Aura you give it. Without his Aura or Semblance, it was now just an unbreakable sword. No matter how powerful Jaune physically is, he doubted even he had the strength necessary to destroy the meteor. He was finished.
'What are these foolish thoughts I sense within you, Arc?!'
Jaune's eyes widened at the sound of Death's voice.
'Did you not best me? Did you not enslave me? Is my power not yours now? You've been insulting me none stop! Relying on the residual soul of a human! Exclusively trusting in the spirit within the Holy Sword! USING ME IN THE SAME FORM AS THOSE HATED BELMONTS! YOU HAVEN'T EVEN USED A MERE FRACTION OF MY POWER, BOY!'
Jaune was shocked to hear that.
'Within this battle cross resides the soul of a god, yet you believe it is just like the Belmont's weaker Vampire Hunter. Their meager whip was fueled by the soul of a newly turned vampire. Your cross is now a Cursed Relic with the soul of a god. This weapon is superior to the Belmont's. And it has a greater form! Unleash it!'
Jaune gritted his teeth. 'How,' he mentally asked.
Death chuckled. 'Simple: submit yourself to me.' Jaune's eyes widened. 'Submit to me, and the power of Death will be yours to wield.'
Time seemed to stop for Jaune. His eyes were shadowed as he looked down, seemingly contemplating. Jaune then began to chuckle, confusing Death, until Jaune laughed. 'You're a fool, Death.'
'What,' Death asked angrily.
'Did you already forget? Chupacabra made it so that YOU submit to ME. To All of House Arc. You belong to me and my bloodline, we will never belong to you. Your power is mine, whether you like it or not.'
Death growled in anger.
'Besides, do you really want to lose to Carmilla?'
'What?'
'If she beats me, she beats you. If I serve her, YOU serve her. She will forever look down upon you, seeing you as nothing more than a tool! Is that the fate the great Death wants?! To be looked down upon as a mere toy instead of one of the most powerful weapons Remnant has ever seen?! Do you want to serve someone lesser than your Lord Dracula?! If not, then fight! Grant me your power, and let us show Carmilla what power TRULY LOOKS LIKE!'
Death was silent for a bit. 'I truly despise you, Arc. You have beaten me, enslaves me, and humiliated me. . . And have shown me a fire I have not seen since Lord Dracula himself. You've awakened within me anger, rage... AND EXCITEMENT! VERY WELL! IN THE NAME OF MY MASTER, THE CURRENT HEAD OF THE ARC CLAN, LORD JAUNE SALEM ARC, I BESTOW ALL OF MY POWER! BEHOLD, THE AWESOME POWER OF DEATH!'
Jaune then roared as he swung his cross with all his might, not seeing it completely glow.
Carmilla watched as her spell rushed towards Jaune, only to see a bright line appear on it. Then, she saw it split in half before she screamed in pain when blood spewed from her shoulder.
She looked at her bloody and limp arm before she glared toward Jaune, only for her eyes to widen. "No. Impossible. That's... Death's Scythe!"
Among the inferno of the destroyed fireball stood Jaune, standing tall and proud as he placed the Scythe on his shoulder, ready to continue his fight.
Jaune stared at Carmilla before he glanced at his scythe. He then chuckled as he smiled sadly. "I just can't seem to get away from scythes, eh... Ruby," Jaune asked with a mutter. He then tightened his grip on his sword in both sadness and anger. "Qrow."
Carmilla stared in shock at the scythe before she regained her composure. She then looked at her arm as it regenerated, brushing her hand over the cut, her dress repaired when her hand moved over it. She then took back her elegant stance. "So, Death's power is now fully yours to wield. . ." She then smiled. "Your value keeps ever increasing, my dear wolf."
Jaune looked back at her, his expression was unreadable.
"Still, are you proficient enough in wielding a scythe in combat against me?"
"Honestly... no. I'm no Scythe Meister. I've fought alongside two great fighters... and my weakness caused both of their deaths. I can't compare to them in the way of the scythe, but honestly, I don't need to."
"Oh," Carmilla asked with a raised eyebrow.
Jaune then spun his scythe at great enough speeds to make wind, spinning his sword in his other hand. He moved his weapons around before pointing both at Carmilla. "I only need to be good enough to beat you!"
Carmilla smirked. "Is that so? Then defeat me IF YOU CAN!" Carmilla then released a hissing roar that shook the entire castle.
Jaune spun his weapons around once more before taking his stance, holding his scythe behind his back, holding his sword loosely in front of him, and leaning forward in a lunging position.
The vampire and wolf stared at each other before they appeared before one another, Carmilla's claw-like fingernails clashing against Jaune's sword. Jaune then readied his scythe and swung with all his might, but Carmilla turned to mist right before the blade could touch her.
She appeared behind him, aiming to stab him in the neck, only for her nails to clash against Jaune's Crocea Mors shield, his tails holding it up.
Jaune then kicked Carmilla away from him before jumping towards Carmilla. As he lunged at her, he spun at great speeds, turning into a twister of blades. Carmilla summoned some Beowolves, hoping they would be able to catch Jaune, only for them to be sliced to ribbons. Just as Jaune's twister was about to touch Carmilla, she jumped into the air to avoid him.
Jaune abruptly stopped spinning and swung his scythe towards Carmilla as if it were still the Vampire Killer. The blade of the scythe shot out, attached to a chain, and wrapped around Carmilla. Not hesitating, Jaune slammed Carmilla onto the opposite side of the tower, where it was most crumbled and decrepit. As the dust rose, Jaune watched as the chain retracted back to the hilt of the scythe, the blade back in its original position.
Jaune whistled at his scythe. "Ruby would freak over this thing. And it's not even a gun."
'Me? A mere gun?! Don't insult me, Arc!'
'Hey, no problems here. I don't use guns. Not my style.'
Jaune then sensed Carmilla's bloodlust and glared towards the smoke. In the blink of an eye, a red flash went past him. Moments later, Jaune felt a powerful punch to the chest. Then his right cheek. His left was next. It was followed with an uppercut that sent him skyward before Carmilla stomped onto his chest, sending him smashing into the ground, back first.
Jaune groaned as he tried to get back up, only to feel winded when something landed atop him. He looked to see Carmilla straddling him, looking down at him with a sadistic smirk as she seductively licked her lips.
Then, with a mad look in her eyes, she proceeded to continuously punch Jaune in the face. One of her punches caused Jaune to cough up blood, which landed near her lips. She immediately licked it off and let out an orgasmic shutter. "So divine. Do you see how far I'm willing to go for you, Jaune?! Surrender to me, and become MINE ALREADY," she roared as she readied another punch.
When she threw her now bloody fist, Jaune timed it just in time to bite her hand, making her flinch in pain. Jaune then readied his Grimm fist and punched her with enough force to send her flying off of him.
She landed on her feet with a skidding halt, groaning at the pain she felt before chuckling villainously towards Jaune with the same look as before. However, she was so preoccupied with Jaune, that she didn't notice the large shadow in the smoke behind her.
Before she could go after Jaune again, she was grabbed from behind, and brought into a bear hug.
"What in the- UNHAND ME!"
"TAKE IT," Gol roared as he tightened her grip around Carmilla to a herculean degree, the sound of her bones breaking already being heard. As he did so, he unleashed as much electricity into Carmilla as his body would allow, Carmilla screaming in pain from the combo.
"JAUNE! FINISH HER," Gol roared.
Carmilla then looked down to see Jaune below her, her eyes widening at the sight of him, the man prepared to swing his sword and scythe at full force. Time seemed to slow down as Jaune swung, the blades traveling to cut off her head.
"Let. Go," Carmilla said darkly and softly.
The blades were just inches away from her neck.
"I... said," she began, her eyes now glowing completely red. "Let. ME." The blades just touched the skin of her neck. "GOOOOOOOO," she roared as her dark power sent Jaune flying.
He was able to land on his feet and growl at Carmilla as he prepared to charge again, only to freeze in place when he saw something horrible.
Carmilla was still in Gol's embrace... but Gol's entire body had large dark spikes protruding out of him. Jaune even felt his blood run cold when he saw Gol actually cough up blood.
"No," Jaune went in horror.
It only got worse when Carmilla blasted his arms off of her before stabbing one hand into his chest, making the giant golem fall to his knees.
Carmilla looked down coldly at him, her hand still in his chest. "You know, I never did find out what made you come to be, meaning you are truly one of a kind." Gol weakly looked up towards Carmilla. "You can never be remade. What a shame. You had such potential. You could have been the most powerful rook on my chessboard. Such a waste of potential."
The next moment shattered Jaune... as Carmilla made his body explode from the inside. The worst part of that sequence... was Gol's head landing with a bounce before rolling towards Jaune.
"G-GOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOLLLLLLLL!"
Jaune frantically crawled over to Gol, gently lifting his head. "Gol! Come on, don't do this! Stay with me!"
Gol's head was still before he began to groan, weakly opening his mouth. "J... au... ne."
Jaune looked hopeful as tears fell onto Gol's head. "I'm here. Don't worry. I'm going to get you out of this. I can save you."
"No. Gol... not gonna... survive."
"DAMMIT, DON'T TALK LIKE THAT! YOU'RE A GOLEM! YOU CAN SURVIVE THIS! I JUST... Penelope. Penelope's in the castle! She can save you!"
"Gol... knows... lady. Lady... said... she only... save Gol once."
"No. No, no, no. I'll convince her! You just have to wait for us to- to talk it out! I can save you!"
"You... already... did."
"What?"
"You told... Gol... he was human. You let me know... me soul real. Me happy... to have... met you."
Invisible to the eyes of all, even Jaune himself, the spirits of his weapons and armor appeared behind him, Pyrrha standing between Death and Nimueh, her hand over her mouth in horror, tears welling up. "This is too cruel. Death, can't you do something?"
"I decide who lives and who dies, girl. I do not allow longevity. Besides, his life is all but forfeit at this point. His soul has almost fully departed."
"But... But Jaune is suffering because of this! We have to do something!" Pyrrha felt a hand on her shoulder and looked up at Nimueh.
With a sad look in her eyes and a pained shake of her head, Pyrrha looked down in defeat. "I'm sorry, child. There is nothing we can do. We are but spirits and a death god. Not even Ambrosius or Jinn would be of any help in this situation."
Pyrrha then began to cry. "Was this why I was brought back? To watch Jaune get hurt even more?" She then hugged Nimueh, crying as the fellow spirit hugged her back, a single tear falling. Death looked at the two apathetically before looking back at his current master.
"Gol... happy... to have met Jaune. Jaune gave... Gol his name... his soul... and the power... to protect. Gol only wish... he could have seen the real Remnant. Wish... he could have... protected human longer. Wish... he... could... be... hero."
Jaune bit his lip hard enough to draw blood. "You... were... ARE... a hero, Gol," Jaune sobbed.
". . . Thank... you. . . Good. . . b..." Gol then let out a soft death hiss. That's when Jaune sensed the last of Gol's soul leaving him.
Gol was now dead.
Jaune looked down at his friend before he hugged his head and screamed towards the sky, his anguish cries echoing throughout the skies. As he did, his cries turned into pained, miserable howls.
Unbeknownst to him, Jaune's howls reached the ears of every Beowolf in the world. It didn't matter what they were doing, fighting in the war, protecting their territory, or even sleeping alongside their human; they all stopped and stood up, looking towards the sky. This caused some of them to be slain in battle, others to confuse the humans, and for Sun, to have to hold tight to his stead. That didn't matter.
Instead, every Beowolf howled toward the sky. A mournful, pained howl filled with sadness. The soldiers fighting knew the meaning of the howl and feared for the worst before going back to fighting, the battle was made easier since the Grimm were now attacking the mournful Beowolves, leaving themselves wide open for fatal attacks from the rebels.
The humans in the territory bowed down and prayed for Jaune, it being common knowledge that the Beowolves only howl so mournfully when something horrible happened to him. In many of the homes, the children were begging their Beowolves to stop howling in such a sad way before hugging the mournful wolf, crying themselves.
Even young Phoenix was hugging her howling Beowolf puppy, scared that something happened to her father. "Daddy," she said softly as a tear fell.
Carmilla stared at the sobbing Grimmkind before her, her eyes cold. "How odd. Why would a powerful werewolf such as yourself shed so much as a single tear for a doll of metal and meat?"
"HE WASN'T A DOLL," Jaune roared as he hugged Gol's head. "He was a man. A good man. He was human."
"I see. Then tell me, werewolf, if a mere doll is a human, then what are you?"
Jaune was completely still, unresponsive, and unreadable. "What... am... I?"
Jaune slowly stood back up and walked towards his dropped scythe. He then gently placed Gol's head next to it. Then, he placed his Sword of Destruction on the opposite of his head.
"Wait, what is he doing," Pyrrha asked.
Jaune then slowly removed his gauntlet.
"Jaune," Pyrrha asked.
He then removed his armor.
"Jaune, what are you doing," Nimueh asked.
"Has madness overtaken you, Arc," Death went.
He placed the gauntlet in front of Gol and the armor behind him. He then gently placed his hand atop Gol's head. "Please... protect him, you three."
"Jaune, what are you doing?! You can't fight her without us," Pyrrha went.
"No. You're not going to-" Pyrrha looked toward Nimueh and saw the horrified look on her face. "DON'T YOU DARE RELY ON HER POWER!"
"Nimueh... I'm sorry," Jaune said before he got up and walk towards Carmilla.
"Jaune! JAUNE! GET BACK HERE, DAMN YOU!"
"Nimueh?" She looked down at a scared Pyrrha. "What is he about to do?"
Nimueh looked back at Jaune as she gritted her teeth. "DAMMIT! IF ONLY I WASN'T TRAPPED WITHIN THIS BLADE!"
"Hm." Pyrrha looked at Death. "I believe we are about to witness something... extraordinary."
Pyrrha didn't like the way Death said that. Not one bit. She then looked back at her partner. "JAUNE! PLEASE, COME BACK! JAUNE!"
Her words fell on deaf ears, as Jaune could only see Carmilla before him, nothing else registers.
Carmilla giggled. "My, what a cute garment." Jaune glanced down at his old, beaten-up, torn hoodie. "But isn't such a thing beneath you, Sir Arc?"
Jaune stared at the hoodie. "There are some things in life that must never be forgotten or discarded. This is one such thing. I will never lose it," Jaune said as he flung the hoodie off of him, his old memento of better days falling in front of Gol's head.
"Ooh, now that's the body of a warrior," Carmilla said as she analyzed Jaune's chiseled, muscular, scarred body. She also couldn't help but look at his right arm, the darkness overtaking his entire appendage.
Carmilla licked her lips erotically, feeling excitement at seeing what was before her. "I will have my fun once you are mine. After that, I will make sure you have PROPER attire and armor for a man of your quality."
"You asked me what I was."
"Hm," Carmilla went with a raised eyebrow.
"If Gol is a human, then what am I," Jaune asked as he reached into his pocket. "I am many things, but many more I am not. However, for you..." Jaune then took out his emblem.
"I am... The Beast," Jaune said with a ferocious glare.
With that, he broke the medallion.
Darkness surrounded Jaune. Carmilla watched in fascination as he began to transform. 'Hm? Wait, isn't he even bigger than when he fought Hastile,' Carmilla thought. Carmilla then stumbled. 'What?'
She looked up in time to see Jaune's fist right before it smashed into her face, sending her flying. She slammed into the door with enough force to make the entire frame crack. She then spat out blood. 'Such power! He wasn't this strong before!'
When Carmilla fell off of the crumbling door, she looked in time to see Jaune right in front of her, his arm in full swing. She turned to mist in time to avoid the slash, but the force was enough to send her mist form rushing around the crumbling room. She turned back into her human form and slammed into a hanging pillar before landing hard on the floor, rolling to the edge of the destroyed tower.
She groaned as she pushed herself up, coughing up more blood. 'What... What is this? He's far more powerful than when he fought Hastile. This can't be all of his powers. It feels almost like-'
Carmilla's eyes widened in realization as she looked towards the approaching Jaune, who was walking slowly and menacingly, growling furiously the entire time. 'He's... ABSORBING my magic?! THAT'S why he's so strong, why he's not reverting back?!'
Carmilla's nails dug into the marble floor as she hissed angrily, her fangs growing more vicious. "What kind of insult is this?! You DARE take power from ME," she yelled as she stood back up, darkness surrounding her, making Jaune stop to growl at her. "ME, THE QUEEN OF THE VAMPIRES?! KNOW YOUR PLACE, WEREWOLF!" She then exploded in dark power.
Jaune didn't even flinch from the pressure that caused the tower to break apart, even more, Carmilla's throne falling off. When the darkness was gone, two large bat wings were wrapped around Carmilla. They then shot open, creating a powerful hurricane. Yet, as powerful as it was, thanks to the Relics, Gol's head was untouched by the wind. Jaune didn't even squint his eyes from the wind pressure. He just growled at what came out of the wings.
There before the wolf was a bat-like monstrosity, with claws as long as its arms, vicious talons that crushed the marble beneath its feet, talons on its wings that looked like they could shred the very sky itself, and monstrous fangs in its horrid mouth.
The creature before Jaune, that was once the beautiful Carmilla, roared at Jaune. He answered with his own roar. The clash of their cries made the very heavens shake, and caused another reaction from Jaune's primal rage.
The previously mournful Beowolves were now convulsing and twitching, the sound of bones cracking being heard from them. They were actively becoming larger, the bones on their bodies growing larger, sharper, and stronger. Then, they looked up with enraged expressions and howled. The Beowolves helping the Rebellion began to slaughter the opposing Grimm, the rebels watching in awe and horror. The Beowolves with the humans ran off to hunt for Grimm, tearing apart the prey they found. One Beowolf even tore apart a Leonidas like it was nothing. Such was the power of Jaune's rage.
Jaune didn't hesitate to rush at Carmilla. The vampiress hissed at the lunging werewolf before she tackled him at great speeds, slamming him through the last wall.
While airborne, Carmilla bit into Jaune's shoulder, drinking his blood again. Jaune grunted before he stabbed his claws into Carmilla's side, the end of his claws protruding at the other side of her belly. Carmilla's eyes widened as she ripped her fangs out of Jaune's neck before spinning him and throwing him towards her castle.
Jaune smashed through the roof and landed on some unfortunate hunchbacks, crushing them into a paste as he flipped back onto his feet.
Carmilla then landed in front of him and slashed his face, making him roar out in pain. He tried to slash her back, but she was able to dodge in time and lunge toward him, knocking him to the ground. She then began to wildly slash at him before he chomped onto her right arm hard enough for the snap of her bone to be heard, Carmilla screaming in pain as a result.
Carmilla slashed Jaune's face with enough force to make him release her, the vampiress now trying to fly away. Jaune jumped onto a wall before slamming into her with enough force to crash through the ceiling.
As they flew wildly into the air, Jaune bit into her wing and tore off a chunk, making Carmilla lose aerial control. However, as they were flailing through the air, Carmilla got a chance to bite Jaune's hand, drinking his blood before they slammed into Frankenstein's lab.
They were parted when Carmilla crashed into one of the mad doctor's massive tools, the vampiress crashing onto a suspended bridge, reverting back to her human form with a groan.
Jaune, however, slammed into one of Frankenstein's giant Tesla Coils, electricity coursing through his entire body before he fell to the ground, whining and huffing as steam left his body.
"We shouldn't be doing this, Jaune." He looked up with a growl towards a huffing Carmilla as she wiped the blood off the side of her mouth, licking her finger. "You're wasting your power on them. These humans. Why should you be their savior, when you can be their ruler? We're both parts of the same great game, but there is no reason to be on opposite sides of the board!"
Jaune lunged at her, Carmilla transforming and jumping in time to cling onto Jaune's back, slashing at his back before throwing him into chemicals, which exploded on impact.
Carmilla stared at the fire, wondering what happened to Jaune. She got her answer when he lunged out of the fire, pinning her before viciously punching and clawing her entire body.
Carmilla got out of his hold by using her magic to shock him before using a mini Megiddo to blast him off of her. He slammed into more of Frankenstein's tools, piles of them falling onto him. She then reverted back as she got up. "CAN'T YOU SEE YOU'RE BEING USED, ARC!? YOUR MOTHER! THE HUMANS! THE VERY GODS THAT ABANDONED THIS WORLD! YOU'RE JUST BEING USED LIKE A PAWN WHEN YOU SHOULD BE A KING! DON'T YOU UNDERSTAND?! WE COULD RULE TOGETHER! WE COULD BE FRIENDS! PARTNERS!"
Jaune sent the pile flying off of him with a roar before he lunged at Carmilla.
"LOVERS," she roared as she transformed and slammed into Jaune, flying up with him as they viciously clawed and bit at one another, Jaune even tearing off one of Carmilla's ears.
Carmilla then roared as she began to spin with Jaune, turning the two into a tornado as she flew back to the tower. She then threw Jaune to the tower, the man still spinning as he slammed into it, more than half of it falling apart.
When the dust cleared, she saw Jaune, face down, unmoving, and turning back into a human.
With a roar, Carmilla shot towards Jaune, ready to pierce him through the spine to cripple him and win the battle.
As she got close to him, Jaune's eye shot open, and he rolled over.
Carmilla's eyes widened in shock when she saw Crocea Mors on his stomach.
However, she was even more shocked when he swung the sword... and decapitated her.
As Carmilla's head flew off her shoulders, Jaune was stabbed in the stomach. Her claws went right through his stomach all the way into the marble, but they still missed his spine.
Jaune coughed up blood as he looked down at the wound. Gritting his teeth, he grabbed Carmilla's arm, and with a pained groan, he ripped her arm out of him with a pained roar. He fell on his back, panting from pain and exhaustion as he was bleeding out. To stop his bleeding, he allowed himself to give in to his Grimmkind physiology, his body becoming the same as his mother's, the holes in his stomach sealing up.
Panting, he rolled over onto his side and got up onto his knees. He looked at Carmilla's shocked head before looking at her headless body. He then looked up at the brighter, black sky, meaning the sun had risen; and roared in victory. His victorious roar echoed as a mighty howl, his howl traveling the world and reaching his Beowolves, who howled in kind. Their mighty howl held the power to frighten even other Grimm, making them run in fear of the Beowolves filled with the pride of victory.
Jaune looked at Carmilla's body and grabbed his sword. Tired, exhausted, and sore, he weakly kicked her onto her back, blood still flowing out of the stump of her neck. He then stood over her body and held his sword over her heart.
"Just... to make... sure. . . This long night... IS OVER!" Jaune held Crocea Mors high above his head and thrust downward, aiming to pierce Carmilla's heart.
Time seemed to slow down.
'What is this,' Carmilla thought as she watched Jaune's sword moving down to her body. 'Is this... where I die? Where I lose everything... again? . . . No. No, I was so close. He could have been mine. His powers, his weapons, his world; it all could have been mine! But you're trying to take everything from me, Jaune?! NO! I can't accept this!'
Jaune's sword touched the flesh of Carmilla's body, slowly piercing through.
'I... I am Carmilla Karnstein! I am the Queen of the Vampires! I AM THE LORD OF DARKNESS! THE MASTER OF THIS CASTLE AND NEW RULER OF PARADISE!'
Jaune's blade began to touch Carmilla's heart.
"I AM THE GODDESS OF THE NIGHT," her head screamed.
Jaune was then sent flying after Carmilla's body exploded with darkness. He was sent skidding all the way to his gear. He groaned as he got up to see Carmilla's body surrounded by swirling darkness.
Jaune then noticed that the darkness was being collected from all over the castle, as well as blood. Jaune then saw some of her servants and minions being sucked into the vortex. He saw some of the winged monsters trying to fly away in vain, being sucked into the vortex.
Jaune then instinctively reached out and grabbed a hunchback. The little monster looked back at Jaune in terror as he tried to climb up Jaune with pleading eyes.
"HANG ON," Jaune yelled as the terrified creature tried to climb him.
"H..E...L...P...M...E," it struggled to say as it began to cry.
Jaune then watched a horrible sight as the force of the vortex literally skinned the monster alive, sucking his blood as he desperately clung to Jaune until it was nothing more than bones that flew out of Jaune's hands.
Jaune heard the cries of minotaurs, goblins, medusa heads, and wolves crying as they were sucked into the vortex.
As Jaune held up with his clawed right arm dug into the ground, he saw his hoodie and grabbed it before it could be sucked in. He immediately put it on. When he did, he saw Gol's body being dragged toward the vortex.
"NO," Jaune cried in vain as it was sucked into the vortex. Jaune could even see it being torn to shreds within, making it impossible for Jaune to bury it like he had wished when it was over. Jaune roared in anger at the vortex.
He then looked back at his Relics, Gol's head still there. Transforming his legs so his clawed feet could anchor him onto the ground, he turned towards the Relics, not seeing what was forming behind him within the vortex.
Had he looked, he could have seen a massive bat wing moving within the darkness.
Jaune put on the gauntlet first, followed by the armor, already feeling Pyrrha's presence. He could feel her hugging him from behind. If he had to guess, she was crying. Jaune then grabbed the Sword of Destruction with his gauntleted arm, immediately feeling Nimueh and her power flow through him. He could sense that she was ready to put an end to this just as much as he was. He then grabbed the Vampire Killer Scythe with his Grimm Arm, feeling Death's desire to end Carmilla.
Finally, with his tail, he grabbed Gol's head. There was nothing special about it. No extra power. No spirit to help or guide him no weapon within. Just the head of his dead friend. But he will be damned before he allowed the last bit of Gol to be destroyed. It WILL get a proper burial. Jaune vowed that would be so.
With his tail tightly wrapping Gol's head around his waist to the point only death would make him release it, Jaune turned towards the vortex, ready to finish this fight, despite being on his last legs.
As he looked at the vicious vortex, he saw at the very top of it glowing, blood-red, dark, evil eyes. As soon as his eyes met with the glowing eyes of evil, the vortex exploded.
Meanwhile, Sun was riding his now huge Beowolf. "Come on! Where could you be, man?!" He then got out of scroll and called Mary.
'Did you find a lead?!'
"I was calling you to ask! Nothing?!"
'NOTHING! I'm literally just below the clouds, but I can't see a damn thing out of place! Just desert! No sign of any explosion! Have you heard anything from Raven or any other scouts?!'
"NO! My Beowolf can't find a damn thing, either, but it keeps going crazy! You should see the size of this thing! It could carry a freakin' platoon cart with how big it is!"
'I DON'T CARE! I WANT TO KNOW WHERE THE FATHER OF MY SON IS! THERE HAS TO BE- WHAT THE HELL?!'
"Mar?! Mary, what's wron- WHOA," Sun went when he saw a massive crack in the air in front of him. "What the hell is-" The air then shattered, a powerful gale pushing Sun's Beowolf back as he covered his eyes to protect them from the pressure.
When it lessened, a strong wind was still there, Sun looked and saw something that made his eyes widen in shock. "W-What in the name of the gods is that?!"
Mary looked... forward in shock and horror. "What... IS that thing," she asked as she dropped her scroll.
Raven flew as close to the being as her form could before she transformed back and landed, looking up while covering her eyes from the wind pressure. "What... What the hell kind of Grimm is that?"
Jaune looked up with shocked eyes before they steeled with a growl. Before him was a massive creature with three pairs of wings. The top pair was pitch black wings of feather, below them were black bat wings, and below them were wings that seemed to be made of pure darkness. The being lifted it's slender arm up to its disturbingly beautiful face, the feminine giant flexing her long, sharpened fingers.
She then smiled as she giggled menacingly, looking down at Jaune. "Behold," her voice echoed. She then leaned down towards Jaune. "Thy new goddess, little wolf," her voice rang ethereally.
Jaune growled as he stood definitely before the "goddess".
"CARMILLAAAAA," he howled, ready for the final battle against his now god-like foe.
A teacup was shown. A teacup filled with blood.
"Oh, my, my," someone said as they elegantly took the teacup and took a sip out of it. "Carmilla seems to have reached a level of power that even Dracula can't compare to."
"Indeed. She is far more powerful than the previous Dark Lord now. Fresh baked cookies, Lady Lenore," Chupacabra asked as he held up the plate.
"Ooh, chocolate chip. How lovely. A fine reminder of my days as a child all those centuries ago," Lenore said as she took and ate a cookie. "I do prefer when they're nice, warm, and gooey, don't you?"
"I do, m'lady."
Lenore giggled as she looked back toward the magic spell allowing her to see outside of the dwarf's enchanted shop. She finished the cookie with a satisfied hum before washing it down with blood. "I almost feel sorry for our dear wolf. Carmilla is all but invincible now."
"Are you saying Sir Arc may have met his match," the dwarf asked.
"I am. His fascinating Aura is gone. He more than likely cannot turn into that wolf form of his anymore. He is beaten, bloodied, and possibly broken. He is on his very last legs. There is a very high chance that he may very well be slain in this battle."
"Oh, dear. Well, what are his chances of victory?"
"Slim. Near non-existent if I'm being honest."
"Near?"
Lenore smiled. "Yes. NEAR. If our dear wolf has proven anything in this long hunt, it's that he can achieve the impossible. That is the power of Jaune Salem Arc, King of the Beowolves," Lenore said as she looked at the defiant Jaune.
Carmilla looked around and giggled. "I can see it. I can see all the dark touches. This world of eternal night. I can see so many souls. So much blood. So many morsels and slaves to make mine. I can even see her. The witch who was once my rival, now no more than a mere spec in comparison to me." She then looked up. "I can even... SENSE them. I may not be powerful enough to slay them, but a few hundred years as this world's goddess will fix that. Then, if they are ever foolish enough to return to my world, I shall slay them and show existence what a true goddess looks like."
'Jaune, is she talking about who I think she is,' Nimueh asked.
Jaune's gaze hardened even more. 'The God Brothers of Light and Darkness.'
'The legendary brothers that created Remnant,' Pyrrha asked. 'They're real?'
'They're the reason my mother is immortal, and why I am what I am,' Jaune answered.
'They do not matter now,' Death said. 'What matters is the usurper before us.'
Carmilla giggled. "Usurper? Is that what you think I am?" All four were shocked to know Carmilla was listening to them. "Oh, little reaper, I am no usurper. I have earned the right to be the Lord of Darkness. No, the right to be the Goddess of the Night. With this power, I cannot be stopped. So, I tell you, Jaune, be mine. Together, we can rule Paradise. And when my power is truly omnipotent, we shall return to Wallachia. To my previous world. Turn it into the Paradise Dracula lied about, and I shall rule as that world's goddess as well. Time, space, worlds; with this power and you as my knight, I can rule it all."
Jaune growled. "YOU'RE ONLY AS POWERFUL AS YOU ARE BECAUSE YOU DRANK MY BLOOD! YOU'RE USING POWER THAT WAS NEVER YOURS! You're just another one of my mistakes, BUT YOU WILL NOT BE ANOTHER ONE OF MY FAILURES," Jaune said as he pointed his Relics at her. "I WILL END YOU, CARMILLA!"
Carmilla giggled. "Very well. My personal blood bank you shall be. I shall feed upon you for all eternity. Hm? Insects try to swarm towards us."
Jaune raised an eyebrow before he looked behind him. Thanks to his enhanced abilities, he could see Mary, Raven, and Sun trying to reach him.
"That won't do. This is a conversation between just the two of us." Carmilla then raised her hand.
Sun's Beowolf was trying to force its way through the howling winds before it was lifted by an even stronger, blacker wind. "OH, CRAP," Sun went after he was blown off his Beowolf, being flung around by the wind.
He was then caught by Mary. "THANKS," he yelled.
"WHAT IS THIS?! THIS WEATHER IS INSANE! I DON'T THINK EVEN SALEM COULD DO THIS," Mary yelled. She then saw a bird stuck in the black winds. "RAVEN!"
Sun activated his Semblance, his clones rushing into the wind and grabbing Raven. The clones then threw her toward Mary as they vanished after being smashed by a boulder.
Mary was able to catch Raven, who transformed back into a human in Mary's arms. "WHAT THE FUCK IS JAUNE FIGHTING?!"
"I HAVE A BETTER QUESTION: HOW THE HELL ARE WE SUPPOSED TO HELP HIM," Sun yelled.
"I DON'T THINK WE CAN," Mary yelled.
The three looked at the swirling black winds, knowing full well Mary was right.
At least until Raven heard thunder and looked up. When she saw the red lightning, she activated her Maiden powers with a determined look in her eyes as she began to float next to Mary. "Mary," she went.
Mary looked at Raven with a raised eyebrow before she heard a crackling. She looked down to see electricity in Raven's hand before she heard thunder. She looked up to see the red lightning in the black clouds. Clouds were all around them, including above the black vortex.
Understanding what Raven had planned, she nodded at her before she flew down and put Sun down on the ground safely. "Be ready for anything."
"Like you need to tell me that," Sun said as he took out his bo staff. "What are you and Raven planning?"
Mary looked up towards the sky with a glare. "You'll see." She then flew up towards the sky, she and Raven flying off in different directions.
Jaune looked around to see that he and Carmilla were surrounded by a black tornado, whatever was left of Carmilla's castle being sucked into the strong winds.
"Now then, Jaune..." He glared at the evil goddess, who smiled darkly down at him. "Let us have one, final dance, my pet."
Jaune then took his stance. "Time to end this long night properly."
With a giggle, Carmilla raised her hand. Out of the tips of her fingers shot a beam of dark magic.
Jaune used his Sword and Scythe to block the beam, the force of the power pushing him back. He felt like his very skeleton was shaking, his bones beginning to crack from the sheer force of her power. Still, he would not yield.
With a roar, Jaune separated the beam, surprising Carmilla. "Ho?"
Jaune was panting as he looked up towards Carmilla with a glare until he felt a vibration. He looked at his weapons to see them glowing. "What in the- Wait, did you two... do what I think you did?"
'Your Aura isn't the only thing that can fuel me, Jaune. Don't you remember what existed BEFORE Aura?'
Jaune's eyes widened at Nimueh's question. 'Magic.'
'And magic can meld with one's soul. It is no effort for me to absorb it,' Death said.
Jaune then looked up towards Carmilla. 'And Carmilla... is now nothing BUT magic.'
'We can win, Jaune,' Pyrrha said.
Carmilla giggled. "It's cute that you think you can best me so easily, little spirit." She then reached towards the sky and tore open a portal in the sky. "Rain down, Demonic Megiddo."
When she said that, it literally began to rain Demonic Megiddos.
"Aw, crap," Jaune went. He then started to run, avoiding the Megiddos as best he could. He jumped, flipped, and slid past them; but he was still unlucky enough to get caught in some of the explosive shock waves.
Carmilla laughed softly yet sadistically. "Yes. Dance, my little wolf. Dance for me. Hm?" She looked up when she heard more thunderclaps than usual. She saw that the sky was full of lightning.
Raven and Mary were flying around the vortex, blasting the clouds above with as much lightning as they could.
When they met, Mary was reeling back her open palm filled with electricity. "I only have enough Electric Dust in me for one last shot!"
Raven reeled back her hand, also filled with electricity. "Then you'd better make it count!"
The two then unleashed a massive bolt of lightning into the sky, the black clouds now lit up with red lightning.
Moments later, Carmilla was bombarded with red lightning, the evil goddess screaming in pain from the attack. It lasted for so long that Carmilla actually began to illuminate before she was completely engulfed in red light.
When the light was gone, Carmilla was hunched over, panting, obviously in pain. She then growled as she looked towards the vortex, exactly where Mary and Raven were floating. "How DARE you?! You insignificant gnats! HOW DARE YOU ATTACK YOUR GODDESS," she roared as she readied a massive Demonic Megiddo.
She then winced in pain before she looked down to see Jaune on her arm, his Scythe stabbed into her arm.
"I don't care for fleas, Arc," Carmilla said. When she did, dark tendrils appeared all around Jaune. He frantically cut them with his Sword as he ripped his Scythe out. As he was defending himself, he felt a sharp stab and looked down to see a black spike through his foot. He then roared as he himself was electrocuted.
As he was being shocked, he opened his eyes to see red lightning still flashing in the sky. Taking a chance, he reeled back his Scythe and flung it with enough force for the blade to fly toward the sky. When it was as high as it could go, just barely touching the clouds, lightning struck the blade.
Carmilla laughed. "Making yourself suffer, Jaune? There are easier ways to surrender to me."
When the lightning was gone, Jaune reeled back the blade, his Scythe's head now glowing completely red. Reeling back his arm, Jaune gave a roar as he swung his Scythe with all his strength. He unleashed a red energy blade that sped to Carmilla, slashing her right eye.
She screamed in pain, canceling her spell as she was holding her eye, which was now leaking magic and blood.
Jaune literally snapped the spike off of his foot before ripping it out. Stabbing both his Sword and Scythe into Carmilla's arm, Jaune run up the appendage, both slicing her arm and absorbing her own magic. More spikes appeared in Jaune's way, but he was able to maneuver his way past them, save the odd crash that made him stumble, but that would not stop him. Even some of Carmilla's familiars, the monsters she sacrificed to become a goddess, appeared in Jaune's way. He just ran past them, some of them landing lucky shots.
Once Jaune reached her shoulder, almost completely out of strength and energy, Jaune jumped up as high as he could, far above Carmilla, who was glaring up at him. While floating in the sky, Sword and Scythe glowing with magical energy, Jaune raised both weapons towards the sky, taking as much lightning as he could possibly hold, the electric power coursing through him as well. He was putting his body through hell, but he wanted to end this battle by any means necessary.
"YOU! WON'T! BEAT! ME," Carmilla roared as she created massive Demonic Megiddos in the palms of her hands. She then clasped her hands together, combining them into the largest Megiddo yet. When Jaune saw that his entire body was glowing red, he knew it was time. He then dived towards Carmilla, Sword and Scythe at his sides, before he began to spin. He was spinning at such speeds that he looked like a blood-red buzzsaw falling towards Carmilla.
Carmilla then screeched as she blasted the Megiddo as a laser, her spell clashing with Jaune.
Their clash was literally tearing reality to shreds around them, rubble turning to dust, the vortex shaking violently, and the very air forming cracks. The entire world felt their clash, lightning now crashing all over the world, the Tribute Towns now devoid of sunlight as much as the rest of Remnant, Grimm going wild, and the seas raging by the force of their power.
Then, eyes now completely red, Jaune roared as he unleashed every single last bit of his power. He then began to slash through Carmilla's beam.
Her eyes widened in shock and horror. "NO! THIS CAN'T HAPPEN!" The last thing Carmilla saw was Jaune as he glared at Carmilla, his fangs totally bear, his skin and hair white as snow, and his eyes red as blood. "I AM A GODDESS!"
Jaune roared as he slashed completely through Carmilla's chest, slashing through her heart, and blasting his way out of her. Then, with one last spin, he unleashed a crimson blade of energy that decapitated the goddess, Carmilla screaming as her head fell off her body, her black heart spilling everywhere.
Jaune was falling as Carmilla's body began to fade away. His eyes widened when he saw her head swirling with darkness. "You've got to be kidding me."
Out of the darkness lunged Carmilla, grabbing Jaune by the neck. She tried to bite him, but he held her head back. He then turned his scythe back into a battle cross and stabbed her in the heart.
She gasped as she looked down at her fatal wound before looking back up at Jaune in shock. Her eyes widened when she, for a moment, saw Salem before she saw Jaune again. "Are you the son of the Grimm Queen? Who are you, werewolf?" Jaune growled as he turned his battle cross back into a scythe. "Such power!"
"I am not a werewolf! I am Jaune Salem Arc, son of the Grimm Queen, King of the Beowolves, and the man who will bring light back to Remnant! But right now, I'M THE MAN WHO PUT AND END TO YOU! NOW, BEGONE!" Jaune then slammed both of his blades into Carmilla, dive-bombing the two of them at awesome speeds, the two actually igniting, before slamming into the ground with an explosion.
That explosion completely dispersed the vortex. Even more amazing... was that it parted the clouds, allowing the sun to shine. Though it was but a moment, it was still a moment that Raven, Mary, and Sun looked up at in awe. Sun even made sure to record it on his scroll, just so he could show his little "nieces and nephews" what a sunlit sky looked like since they never went anywhere near the Tribute Towns.
Out of the smoldering ground stumbled Jaune, barely able to so much as stand. In fact, he even fell to one knee. "Please... tell me it's over."
"Jaune! Behind you," Pyrrha called.
Jaune looked to see Carmilla standing there, her hands elegantly held together, an unreadable smile on her face.
Jaune sighed as he turned towards her. "Back for more?"
"No. You've won."
"Huh," Jaune went with a raised eyebrow. He then realized that Carmilla was fading away from the bottom up.
"You've killed me."
Jaune stared at Carmilla. "Why don't you seem more depressed about dying?"
She giggled. "Silly wolf. Vampire souls are eternal."
"That so? Death?" The reaper appeared behind Jaune. "Enjoy your meal."
Death actually laughed. "A fine banquet, indeed!" Death then rushed towards Carmilla, only to be pushed back by a force field. "WHAT?!"
"What just-" Jaune began. He then received a shock... when Carmilla kissed him, full on the lips.
The two parted with a loud smack of their lips, a small sliver of saliva connecting them. "With this, my curse is fulfilled."
"Curse," Jaune asked.
Carmilla smiled as she slowly walked backward. "With my last bit of life and my last sliver of magic, I have placed a curse upon House Arc. Just as Dracula was the bane of House Belmont and the world known as Earth, I shall be the bane of House Arc and the world known as Remnant. May it be one hundred, two hundred, or even millennia; I shall rise back from the dead, summoned by the darkness in the hearts of man, to take back what is owed to me. Yes, one day, I promise you, House Arc and all of its power and glory shall be mine, along with Paradise. That is my curse onto thee, my dear wolf. Your descendants... long after you are gone, will never be free of me. Your clan will be mine."
Jaune glared at Carmilla. "Hmph, so that's your curse, is it? Then this... is my vow. House Arc will never fall to you, nor shall Remnant. The Sword of Destruction, the Vampire Killer, the Blessed Armor, and even the Curse of Grimm," Jaune began as he raised his right arm. "As long as just one of these powers exists to protect both House Arc and Remnant, we shall never fall. These powers and my kinsmen will be the end of you one day. From this day on, House Arc will defend the light from the evils lurking within the dark! The Arc Clan will Hunt the night within the very shadows themselves!"
Carmilla laughed. "You wish to destroy darkness using darkness?!"
"No. I wish to destroy the evil within the darkness, so that one day, man will not need to fear what lurks within it, and experience the beauty within the dark."
Carmilla's smile softened. "Interesting. You truly are an interesting man, Jaune Arc. You would have truly earned the right to be at my side," she said as all that was left was her head. "Farwell... Beowolf King." With that, Carmilla vanished, leaving behind only a red orb.
That red orb shot into Jaune, and he felt rejuvenated. He felt complete. Jaune then gave a victorious howl, summoning more Beowolves around him who howled with him.
Grimmkind Jaune Arc was once again complete.
Jaune released a relieved sigh before he caught a scent. He turned towards it. "Lenore."
"Oh, my, and here I thought I was masking myself quite well. So this is your full power. Lovely."
Jaune analyzed her before he noticed she was holding a basket. He could smell it was full of vials of blood... and chicken... and cookies?
Jaune then noticed Chupacabra waddling up next to her. "Hello, Sir Jaune."
"You both survived."
"Oh, my, you almost sound happy to know that, Dear Jaune," Lenore said as she covered her mouth teasingly.
"I-Uh..." Jaune sighed. "So, what now? Are you going to try to avenge Carmilla? Resurrect her somehow?"
"Oh, heavens no. She'll find a way back all her own. I just need to find a new place to live, is all. Maybe a nice, snowy region like back home," she said thoughtfully. She then looked at Jaune. "It's quite a shame, really. This might very well be our last meeting, my dear. You were quite fun to play with at chess."
Jaune looked at Lenore in surprise before looking at the dwarf. "It's true. You don't need us anymore. Not that we could help that much, to begin with. Most of our power came from Carmilla's castle, just like your armor's power."
"My armor?" Jaune's eyes then widened in realization as he turned back to look at... a sadly smiling Pyrrha. "N-No. It can't be."
"I'm afraid so, Sir Arc. Without Carmilla's magic, the Remnant Phantom doesn't have enough power to manifest. This may be your last time to see her as well."
"No. Please, no. Tell me he's wrong."
Pyrrha merely smiled sadly at Jaune, a tear falling down her face.
Jaune then saw the answer in her eyes. "Y-You knew."
She looked down, tears falling. "When you beat Carmilla... I could already feel myself fading away," she said with a breaking voice.
"No. No, I just got you back. Please, don't leave me again," Jaune pleaded as he grabbed her hand.
"Jaune... we both know I'm not her. I wish I was, but I'm not."
"DON'T SAY THAT! YOU'RE STILL PYRRHA!"
"I'm not even her actual soul. I'm the remnants of her spirit. We've been hearing that ever since I-" She was interrupted when Jaune hugged her.
"I don't care. Even a tiny bit of you is still Pyrrha Nikos. You're still the strongest woman I've ever met. Still my first partner. Still, the first person to ever see any worth in me. Still... my first real love."
Pyrrha hugged him back. "If only you knew how happy I was to hear you say that." She then parted from him and cupped his face, her body beginning to glow. "I am so proud of you. Proud of what you've become. What you've accomplished. And what you're GOING to do."
"Going to do?"
"You are going to save Remnant." His eyes widened. "You're going to end this nightmare and save everyone. You'll be the hero I've always known you can be. I wish you knew I was with you, but I want you to know... I'll always be watching you."
"Pyrrha," Jaune went as he began to cry.
"And I promise, if... WHEN Carmilla comes back, I'll do everything in my power to protect Remnant's next protector. I will NEVER let her have the Arc Family. After all, when she comes back, I'll be brought back, too."
Jaune's eyes widened before he looked back at Chupacabra, who nodded in confirmation. "The Blessed Armor is at its most powerful when defending against the blackest of vampiric and dark magic. Though your mother is a powerful magician, her magic is technically not of unholy darkness, but Carmilla's is. Once she returns, the Blessed Armor will be revitalized, meaning the spirit within will reawaken. In essence, she will be the warning beacon against her return."
Jaune looked back at Pyrrha, wiped the tears off his face, and smiled. "Take care of them, whoever they are."
Pyrrha smiled. "I promise." She then smiled sadly at Jaune before she surprised him with a kiss. Not a peek on the cheek or kiss on the nose, but a kiss full of love on the lips. When they parted, she gave one last beautiful smile. "I love you," her voice echoed as she vanished.
Jaune reached out towards the sparks before lowering his hand as he smiled towards the sky. "I love you, too."
"My. How heartwarming."
Jaune's smile went away as he turned towards Lenore. "So... what now?"
Lenore smiled as she walked up to him. "Now..." She held out her hand. "We part ways."
Jaune looked down at her hand before he gently grasped it and kissed it in a gentlemanly manner.
"My, my, treating me like a lady, are we?"
"You're the most like one I've seen in this entire damned quest."
"That so? Still, you're quite unfair, Sir Arc."
"Huh? WHOA," Jaune went after Lenore tugged him, and stole a kiss from him. He babbled as he parted from him.
"You kissed Carmilla and a spirit. I'm not about to be left out of the fun," she said with a teasing smile as she walked away.
Jaune slumped over as he looked at her with blank eyes. "You vixen."
Lenore looked back and winked at him with a giggle before she continued to walk. "You know, a lot can change in a century or two."
"Huh?"
"I just might help your descendant." Jaune was surprised. "Only time will tell," she said in a singsong voice before she turned into bats and flew away into the darkness of Remnant.
Jaune sighed as he watched her vanish. "Goodbye... Lady Lenore." He then turned towards the dwarf. "And what about you, my friend?"
"Oh! You consider me a friend. Ah, these next hundred years will be quite easy to handle now," he said as he waddled past Jaune. "Worry not, my friend. Where there is business to be made, there I shall be. If your descendants are even a fraction as pleasant as their progenitor, I will gladly aid them. Though I do not know what the future holds..." He turned back towards Jaune and smiled. To anyone else, it would have been a creepy and ugly smile of a monstrous midget.
But to Jaune, it was the kind and lovely smile of a friend. "Remnant is in good hands. Farewell, my friend." With a puff of smoke, he vanished.
Jaune looked out towards the darkness before holstering his weapons and he reached behind him and grabbed Gol's head. "I guess... you're the last one I should say goodbye to." He then looked around and saw a large boulder more than big enough for what he had planned.
"JAUNE!"
He looked up to see Raven and Mary flying towards him, Sun riding with them.
When they landed, Raven and Mary immediately hugged him, not noticing the head.
Raven then slapped Jaune. "Do you have ANY IDEA how worried we were!?"
"She's right, Jaune! What the hell happened," Mary yelled.
"AND IS THAT A FREAKIN' HEAD," Sun yelled. When Raven and Mary looked at Sun before following his finger, the two jumped in shock.
Jaune held up Gol's head, looking at it sadly before looking up at his friends. "It's a long story."
Jaune told them everything as he was digging Gol's grave, not leaving out any details. He had just finished telling it just as he buried Gol's head.
"You... went through all of that," Sun asked in shock.
"That... sounds like hell," Raven said as she looked away.
Mary knelt down and placed a hand on the mound of dirt, a few stray tears falling onto it. "I... I wish I could have met him. He sounded like a great man."
"He was. By the gods, he was," Jaune said as he tightened the grip on his crossed arms. He then took a deep breath and drew Gol's image in the dirt. "Mary... please."
She looked at the image and nodded. She then placed her hand on the boulder and grunted. Moments later, the boulder exploded and took the perfect shape of Gol, standing on a podium with a blank slate. Mary moved out of the way so Jaune could write on it. Jaune stepped back so that all three could see what he wrote:
HERE LIES GOL, MADE TO BE A MONSTER BUT LIVED LONG ENOUGH TO BE A MAN, A HERO, AND A FRIEND. REST IN PEACE, PROTECTOR OF REMNANT
Jaune, Raven, Mary, and Sun were praying in front of Gol's grave, all three of them hoping he was at peace. Jaune was the first to look up. "I need to put an end to this, and make sure no one else like Gol dies."
"You're not going to do it alone, this time, hero," Raven said.
"Yeah. Put some faith in us," Sun said.
"Even you have limits," Mary said. "Though, it is amazing you were able to handle this ordeal all on your own."
"Indeed. It most certainly is."
All three warriors were shocked by the fourth voice, all of them turning around with their weapons ready, Raven's eyes glowing with her Maiden powers, Mary covering her fists with flaming stone, and Jaune holding both the Sword of Destruction and the Vampire Killer.
He glared at the being before them. "Mother."
"Hello, Jaune. I am quite pleased with your progression. You've gotten much stronger."
"Happy to impress." Jaune then surprised his allies when he swung the battle cross, the weapon immediately transforming into a scythe. "care to see how much stronger I've become?"
Salem's smile grew. "A new Relic that can rival the ones created by the gods themselves. Very well done. Still, we both know that you don't have the strength to fight me now. It's taking everything you have just to stand, correct?" Jaune just glared at Salem as his friends looked at him with knowing concern before looking back at Salem.
"I'm not here to fight you, son."
"Huh," Jaune went as he and the others lowered their guard.
"I'm here to reward you for a job well done." Salem then held up her hand, a magic orb forming above it. Salem then shot it upward. Moments later, the orb pierced the sky, shocking the trio as they watched the sun shine upon them.
Jaune looked at his ancestor in shock. "Why?"
"Like I said: a reward. Besides, it seems Carmilla didn't like the sun very much. Even if she does return, it won't be back here. I'm sure the sun will do our job for us."
"So you're giving Remnant a Light Zone that isn't a Tribute Town," Raven asked.
"I am. He has more than earned it. Do what you please with it: turn it into a base, build a city upon it, or even leave it be. It's yours to do as you please. I will do nothing against it. You have my word," Salem said as she turned around.
"Your word as the Grimm Queen," Sun asked. "Not very trustworthy, if you ask me."
Salem giggled. "Then it's fortunate I never asked you. It's not my word as the Queen of the Grimm, silly Faunus." She then looked back and gave something Jaune hated: a beautiful, motherly smile. "It is my word as an Arc." Jaune tightened his grip on his weapons, not taking his eyes off of his mother.
"Farewell." With that, Salem vanished in a puff of smoke.
The three just stood there before looking up towards the blue, sunny sky, all the way to the edge of black clouds. The area was of luscious, green grass, strong trees, and the now clean and beautiful moat around where Carmilla's castle once stood. There was more than enough land to build a town. Salem had granted an incredible gift.
Sun then looked at Jaune's new weapon. "I seriously can't believe you have your own scythe."
"Hm?" Jaune then held it up. "Yeah. Even has its own spirit within it. It really is a Relic."
"What's the spirit's name," Mary asked.
Jaune sighed. "Death." As soon as Jaune said it, Death appeared before the three.
"Okay, that's seriously intimidating," Sun said as he instinctively help his staff at the ready.
"Hm... I kinda like it," Raven said with her arms crossed and head tilted.
"Honestly, yeah. It's kinda cool looking," Mary said.
Death chuckled. "Your women have good taste, Arc. Which means their souls will be delicious. I look forward to my eventual freedom."
"Come again," the three said in unison.
"Yeah, Death is kinda cursed to serve the Arc Family now. He's pretty much a slave to my family now."
"I will rip your soul to shreds for calling me that, Arc."
"Nimueh."
She appeared and smacked the god on the back of his head. "Behave."
"So we now have two awesome spirits on our side, huh? Awesome," Sun said with a happy-go-lucky smile.
"A friend I met in the castle made it so only a member of the Arc Bloodline or someone whose soul resembles my own can use the Vampire Killer, especially at its full power. Anyone else will... well... die."
"Wow. And I thought the Sword of Destruction was picky," Sun said. Nimueh looked at him coldly. "I'm just saying... ma'am," Sun said as he waved his hands frantically.
"Still, I think as long as I accept them, acknowledge them, or consider them family, they might be able to use at least the battle cross," Jaune said as he turned the scythe back into a battle cross. "Catch."
"Hm? WHOA," Sun went as he caught the cross. "JAUNE, ARE YOU CRAZY! I DON'T WANT... to... Huh. Man, this thing is seriously heavy for being so small."
"See? I consider you family, so nothing will happen to you, Sun."
Sun sighed in relief. "Still have me a hell of a scare, boss man," he said as he tossed the cross.
Raven caught it next. She then tossed it with one hand. "I thought you said it was heavy. Feels pretty light to me." She then tossed it to Mary.
She caught it, next. "Yeah. It's not bad at all."
Sun huffed. "So brags the two Mrs. Arcs," he grumbled with his arms crossed.
Jaune took back his battle cross. "Everyone ready to go back to base?"
"Do you even have to ask," Mary asked with a raised eyebrow, her arms crossed.
"Right." Jaune then held up his hand to summon more Beowolves... before he began to fall. "Huh?"
The three caught him at the same time.
"Why... can't I feel anything?"
"Jaune, you JUST got finished fighting a literal GOD," Sun yelled.
"After fighting an entire castle of monsters for an entire night," Raven continued. "Of course you're body's going to shut down now. It's telling you to rest!" She sighed. "Sun, is your Beowolf big enough for all three of us?"
"Oh-ho, yes," Sun said proudly before whistling. His Beowolf then sped towards them, drifting past the grave to a perfect halt before the four.
"Whoa. That thing could pull a tank," Mary said.
"And it's all thanks to whatever Jaune did," Sun said. "I now officially have the most badass Beowolf around... I think. Might be more like it, but who cares? This one's mine," Sun said as he pointed a thumb at himself with a toothy smile.
"Oi." Sun looked to see Raven and Mary on the wolf's back already, holding onto a limp Jaune. "Get on already. We need a driver."
Sun blinked a few times before he sighed. "Yes, ma'am."
It didn't take that long for the Beowolf to reach the Vacuo Base. Raven and Mary easily carried the still limp Jaune into the base, an annoyed Lyra waiting in the main hall for them. She. Was. FURIOUS.
She made sure to give Jaune a piece of her mind, leaving the base for so long without contacting anyone. After everything was explained to her, she got even angrier, lecturing Jaune about how dangerous it was to go out alone, even for him. Unfortunately for him, Raven and Mary joined Lyra in lecturing him before finally taking him to a doctor.
But before that...
"Dad!"
Jaune looked down to see Gelb and Phoenix running towards him, Phoenix holding the sleeping Solis in her arms, the baby no bigger than a doll in the eight-year-old's arm.
Gelb tackled his father with a hug, earning a pained hiss from the man. "Ow."
"Gelb, be careful. Your father's been through a lot," Mary said.
"Sorry," he said with a cheerful smile.
"But you're back, right dad," Phoenix asked.
Jaune smiled. "Yeah. And your old man's still kicking. Kicked a lot of butts while I was out, too."
Phoenix gave a toothy smile. "That's our dad."
"Hey, dad, did you bring anything back," Gelb asked.
"Gelb," Mary sighed while Jaune chuckled.
He then got out of Raven and Mary's hold, wincing a bit as he knelt down to one knee for his son. He then took out the battle cross. "This is a brand new Relic."
Phoenix and Gelb's eyes shined at the sight of it. "Wow," they said in unison.
"It's a battle cross," Jaune said.
"What's that," Gelb asked.
Jaune then grabbed the top of the cross and pulled it out, showing the spiked chain. "It's a whip. But it also has a second form." Jaune spun the cross as it turned into a scythe. "It's also a scythe."
Gelb's eyes began to twinkle. "COOL!"
"I think the Sword of Destruction is cooler," Phoenix said.
"No way! This cross is way cooler! What's its name?!"
"The Vampire Killer."
"Even the name is cool! Can I hold it?!"
Jaune turned the scythe back into a cross and handed it over to Gelb. "Huh. It's... lighter than I thought it'd be."
"Oh, come on," Sun went.
Jaune smiled at Gelb until he saw something only he could. Gelb seemed to be glowing... along with the Vampire Killer. It was as if their Auras were... merging, but not in an unpleasant way. It reminded him of how his Aura was compatible with...
Jaune smiled and rubbed Gelb's head, confusing the boy. "Gelb, when you're old enough, I'm going to train you in how to use this Relic properly."
"You are," Gelb asked.
"You are," Mary asked.
"I am. After, just like Phoenix will one day inherit my Sword of Destruction-" Phoenix couldn't stop herself from giving a peace sign with that toothy smile of hers. She was basically jumping off the walls the first time Jaune promised to give her the Sword when she was of age. "You will inherit the Vampire Killer."
Gelb looked down at the cross before looking up at Jaune with sparkling eyes. "Promise?"
"Promise," Jaune said with a smile.
Gelb hugged Jaune. "Love you, dad."
Jaune hugged Gelb back. "Love you, too, kiddo-" A crack was then heard. "Ow," Jaune strained out.
"Sorry, Gelb," Mary said as she and Raven lifted Jaune. "Gotta get your dad to a doc! Love you! Help Phoe (pronounced Fi) keep Solis safe!" She and Raven then ran off with Jaune
"Make sure they don't cause trouble, Phoenix," Raven called. "Love you!"
"Love you, too, mom," Phoenix called.
"Did you hear that, Phoe?!"
"Hm?"
"I get to have a cool Relic named the Vampire Killer! I love our family," Gelb cheered as he jumped around.
"I still think the Sword of Destruction is cooler," Phoenix mumbled as she held Solis closer, the baby nuzzling up against his big sister.
LATER
"A WEEK," Jaune yelled as he was in a bed.
"Apologies, Sir Jaune, but even with your unique physiology in play, you will need a week's worth of bed rest," the doctor said. "You should be glad. Anyone else would have been bedridden for a year, even with the help of a healing Semblance."
"B-But the war!"
Raven smacked Jaune on the back of the head. "We can handle it, hero."
"Even you need rest, Jaune," Mary said.
"Just trust us," Sun said.
"Or do I have to give you the 'special boop'," Lyra asked as she reached for her hammer.
"You might have to," Raven, Mary, and Sun said in unison.
"HEY," Jaune went.
"It's only a week," Raven said. "Besides, it's not like you'll be spending that week in the dark."
"Huh?"
"We informed the base of what Salem did on the ride back," Mary explained. "We're transferring everything to that location. There are already builders there as we speak."
"At least you'll have a sunny vacation," Sun said.
"Don't call it a vacation," Jaune said.
"Just rest for once. You've done more than enough on this night alone. We can take it from here," Raven said with a hand on Jaune's shoulder.
Jaune was about to say something until he just sighed. "Fine."
"Good. And just in case," Raven said with a deceptively sweet smile.
"Hm? GERK," Jaune went after Raven chopped the back of his neck. "Shoulda... seen... that... coming." With that, Jaune fell onto his pillow, sleeping.
After everyone applauded Raven, they all left to let Jaune rest, his long night finally over.
END
A/N: Even better than I remember. Jaune Arc vs Castlevania. This was a ride. I was planning on uploading this on Halloween day, but after all the editing I did, I thought, screw waiting. I suffered through this, so I'm uploading it.
Hope you guys enjoyed it. Old Man Jaune will still be on indefinite hiatus, or at least until King of Grimm is finished. Hope you enjoyed this movie.
Until next time!
