Jaune raised an eyebrow. "Champion? I've been called a hero all the time, but never a champion. I don't do tournaments. Who are you?"
The being stared at Jaune. "I suppose there would be no reason for you to recognize me. It has been many a millennium since my brother and I walked among you."
"Your brother?" Jaune's eyes widened. "You're one of the God Brothers. You're the God of Light."
"I am." The God of Light didn't react at all when Jaune punched him. Even with Jaune's height, he could only reach just below the god's pecs, but that should have been where a human's solar plexus would be. But this was a god made of pure light. And if that wasn't enough, it felt to Jaune like he was punching an unbreakable and immovable object. "Why would you try to strike me?"
"WHY THE HELL WOULDN'T I?! RUBY TOLD ME EVERYTHING JINN TOLD HER! I KNOW HOW THIS ALL BEGAN!"
"Then you know that your ancestor is to blame."
"LIKE HELL," Jaune yelled as he punched the god again. "All she wanted was her love brought back to her again, but you refused because you wanted to keep some kind of balance! A balance you yourself denied when you made Ozma reincarnate! You could have prevented everything with just a simple wave of your hand and bring him back to life! Instead, you made Salem immortal?! You drove her mad when all she wanted was to be with her love! Why the hell was you surprised when she brought together an army to attack you and Darkness?!"
"Your ancestor didn't understand the worth of life and death. Not like you."
Jaune stopped his fist mid-punch. He then looked up at the god. "What are you talking about?"
"When you lost your first partner, did you try to bring her back to life?" Jaune looked down. "You did not. You moved forward, lived with her memory in your heart, and grew. You have also taken life for the greater good."
Jaune's eyes widened in rage before he glared at the god. "DON'T YOU DARE BRING THAT UP!" Jaune then looked at his hands. "The greater good. Killing Penny was for the greater good. That's the excuse you want to feed me? I KILLED AN INNOCENT, YOU BASTARD!"
"And you prevented great power from falling into the wrong hands."
"HANDS THAT WOULD HAVE NEVER EXISTED IF IT WERE NOT FOR YOU AND YOUR BROTHER! AND BECAUSE OF YOU TWO, I HAD TO KILL MY OWN ANCESTOR! I KILLED A MEMBER OF MY FAMILY! I'M A FUCKING KINSLAYER BECAUSE OF YOU TWO!" Jaune then took a deep breath. "But at the very least... I broke your curse. I defeated your hold on my ancestral mother." Jaune then stepped forward defiantly. "I. Beat. You."
The god looked down at Jaune. "Indeed. You did the impossible and bested an immortal... with the power of the gods. With my brother's power."
"Your brother may have created her, but Nimueh is her own entity. She is NOT Darkness."
"But in the end, you still needed the power of the gods to 'save' your ancestor. Even now, you rely on our power to protect Remnant."
"YOU THINK I WANTED THIS," Jaune yelled as he gestured to himself. "THIS WAS FORCED UPON ME! THIS IS A CURSE! MY HUMANITY WAS STOLEN FROM ME! AGAINST MY WILL, I WAS MADE INTO SALEM'S SUCCESSOR! I WAS FORCED TO BE THE KING OF THE GRIMM!"
"Be that as it may, you have benefitted from this power. You have accomplished many a great feat with this forced-upon gift. Humanity is becoming less fearful of the Grimm. New species that will undoubtedly defend Remnant have appeared by your hand, and you have already shown your capability of protecting this world with your powers. However, you have done all of this without showing gratitude to my brother."
"And why would I do that?"
"Because in the end, the power you have been using is his. He believes that the worship and praise you have been receiving is rightfully his."
"Well, I don't give a damn. Your brother started most of these nightmares. He created the Grimm to be destructive monsters."
"While you are leading them down the path of protectors. You're making the Grimm into guardians of this world; some already being loved by humanity."
Jaune raised an eyebrow before he remembered. "The Beowolves protecting that village."
"As well as your loyal steed. The Nevermore you imbued with the Gift of Fire. The Neverflame. The creation of that bird also angered my brother."
"Why?"
"He sees it as you challenging his design. A mark of disrespect in his eyes. He sees you as a threat. Ironic, seeing as you are quite possibly the pinnacle of our masterpiece."
"What?"
"That power of yours, your Semblance, is the ultimate symbol of life." Jaune looked at his hand, making it glow to show his Semblance was activated. "With that power, you have saved many lives. Prevented death from taking them before their time."
"But... I've also failed to save with this power, as well."
"Yet, unlike your ancestor, you never tried to disrespect the balance between life and death. You never exploited godly power to resurrect." Jaune didn't respond. "You... are an excellent example of humanity's Light in that regard."
Jaune looked up. "And how am I like humanity's Darkness, then?"
The god didn't respond at first. "Who is your partner?"
"Huh?"
"Who do you have at your side, trusting fully in, and relying upon with pride?"
"Nimueh?"
"And what is she?"
"The Sword of Destruction." Jaune's eyes widened. "The Relic created by Darkness."
"Before you became the King of the Grimm, you relied on the Destructive Power of Darkness through her. With the power of Destruction... with the power of Darkness, you saved many lives. Prevented many tragedies. You even defeated many a great evil with her power. With her at your side, you were the perfect collaboration of Light and Darkness, making you the pinnacle of humanity."
Jaune sighed. "Well, what am I now, then?"
"Now... you are even more so."
"What?"
"You have a Body of Darkness, yet the Power of Light still resides within you. Not once have you ever allowed either force to fully dominate you. Instead, you find balance with both. You use both powers to protect this world and those within it. You do not discriminate. You do not abandon. You do not judge. You only do what must be done. You... accomplish the duties of the hero. The duties of a guardian. Time and time again, you prove to this world what you are. You prove that you are the Champion of Remnant."
Jaune's eyes widened at the god's words.
"And now, in the coming days, you will have to prove this fact more than ever before."
"The coming days?"
"My brother's rage against you has grown. His anger. His jealousy. His envy. All have grown to the point where he defies our vow not to interfere with this world."
"What are you ta-" Jaune's eyes widened in realization. "The Elder King Ice Dragon. The evolving Grimm."
"As well as the Hound that attacked your son."
"THE WHAT THAT DID WHAT?!"
"Jaune... my brother sees you as a threat. And soon enough, you may need to fulfill your duties."
"What duties?"
The god was silent for a bit.
"You may need to defend this world against my brother."
Jaune looked at the God of Light like he was crazy.
"You want me to take on your brother? Your FELLOW GOD brother?"
"You may very well be one of the only beings capable of doing so."
"One of the one beings, huh? Good to know. Ask the others," Jaune said as he turned his back towards the god. "I think we've already proven that I can't beat a god. You didn't even twitch when I punched you. I might as well have been an ant trying to punch the very planet."
"You only believe such a thing because you continuously hold yourself back. You are far more powerful than you care to admit. You just refuse to use your full potential."
Jaune chuckled. "My full potential? In short, I'm not being the Grimm King?"
"Precisely."
Jaune glared over his shoulder. "Good. I never wanted this curse. I may be the new Salem, but I'm not her. And I plan to keep it that way."
"I am not asking you to be your ancestor's replacement. I need you to be her successor and far surpass her. My brother needs to be pacified should the need ever arise."
"Then choose some other 'Champion'. You said there were others, didn't you? Get one of them. People call me a hero all the time, but I'm a Huntsman, not a superhero. I just do what the missions state." Jaune turned his head away from the god. "Get someone else to clean up your mess."
Light stared at Jaune. "Very well." Jaune smirked. "He is young and nowhere near his full potential... but that may be for the best. Your son could be molded into a Champion even greater than you."
Jaune's eyes shot open before he turned towards the god. "What did you say?"
"What's more, my power flows through him, given the fact that he is a Silver-Eyed Warrior. In many ways, he is more suited to the role of Champion than even you."
"No. No. NO! YOU LEAVE MY SON OUT OF THIS, YOU SONOFABITCH," Jaune roared as lightning crashed all around him.
"Hmph. Then if not your youngest son, then your oldest will have to do. He is skilled but needs to be greater yet."
"LEAVE MY SONS OUT OF THIS MESS!"
"Oh? Then shall I bestow the honor upon one of your daughters?"
"DAMN YOU, LEAVE MY FAMILY OUT OF THIS! WHY US?! WHY MY FAMILY?!"
"Because only the Arcs are capable of carrying this mantle."
"WHY, DAMN YOU?!"
"Because of your lineage." Jaune's eyes widened. "You are all the descendants of Salem. As such, you all carry the dormant power of Darkness within you. Though it was through forced means, you were the first to be awakened to that ancient, sleeping power."
Jaune fell to his knees, eyes wide as he looked down towards the white ground. He then roared in anguish before he smashed his fists onto the ground. Had he been in the mortal realm... he would have shattered a mountain with his strength. "You're telling me... that each member of my family... that all of my kids... CAN BECOME A MONSTER LIKE ME?! THIS CAN'T BE RIGHT! YOU HAVE TO BE LYING TO ME! TELL ME YOU'RE LYING," Jaune roared as he looked up at the god. Then, tears fell down his cheeks. "Please. Tell me you're lying. Tell me my family doesn't have to go through this."
Light stared down at the hero. "That is for you to decide." Jaune's eyes widened. "If you refuse the role of Guardian, if you refuse to face my brother, then another with your blood flowing through them must take up this daunting task. To be able to challenge my brother, all of their power must be released, including the Darkness within them. Only a Grimm has the power to challenge the God of Darkness and survive."
Jaune looked down at the ground before punching the ground. "DAMN YOU! WHY DON'T YOU HANDLE HIM?! HE'S YOUR BROTHER?! WHY PUT THIS TASK UPON ME?! UPON MY FAMILY?! MY KIDS?! WHY LEAVE YOUR BROTHER'S ANGER IN THE HANDS OF A MORTAL FAMILY?!"
"A mortal family," Light went with a shake of his head. "You are far from a mere mortal family now, Jaune. The Arcs are now a special breed of humanity. In many ways, your family was bred to protect Remnant. You, your father, your grandfather, and his father before him. Through the centuries, your family has protected Remnant."
"From the Grimm! From power-hungry mad men! FROM MY OWN ANCESTOR! BUT FROM A GOD?! A GOD YOU CAN STOP! ARE YOU THAT AFRAID OF YOUR OWN LITTLE BROTHER?!"
"I have made a vow. That until the Four Relics have been brought together, I will not return to Remnant. My brother may be prepared to break this vow, but I am not."
Jaune gripped his fists hard enough to draw blood. "You know, she never met you, but Nimueh absolutely hates you. I see why."
"Curse me as much as you wish, but the task still remains. Will the father be the Champion of Remnant, or will the task go to his sons and daughters?"
"I'll do it."
"No hesitation this time?"
"I will be damned before I let my children get dragged into this hell," Jaune said as he looked at his own arm. "And the thought of them taking on a god with the power to wipe humanity off the face of the planet with a mere wave of his hand? To hell with that! I will protect my family. From Tyrian, from Darkness's Grimm, from Him. . . and from you. I will never let them become your pawns. NEVER."
"Even if it means becoming a pawn yourself?"
"I will DIE for my family. . . But I will never become a pawn. After all... I'm a goddamn king."
The god stared at Jaune, seeing the fiery, steely resolve in his eyes. "Very well. I accept your resolve, Champion. However, as you are now, you would be no match for my brother. You need to remove the limitations you have forced upon yourself."
"So, let loose?"
"Indeed. Your fear of your own power and what you might become has severely limited your powers. You need to grow ever stronger. You will also need better equipment. As shown in your last battle, arms made by the hands of man aren't enough for the forces my brother sends against you."
Jaune touched his now bare chest, his old armor probably buried within the snowy tundra of Solitas. He then chuckled. "Then it's a good thing I have a brother-in-law who can help with that."
"Be warned, Jaune." He looked up at the god. "Unlike your ancestor, you are not immortal. Though you are powerful, you can still be slain. Should this occur, one of your sons or daughters will be chosen to succeed you."
Jaune glared at the god. "Just another reason not to die, I suppose." Jaune then took a deep breath to calm himself. When he was finally of sound mind, he finally realized it. "Daughters? I have daughters?!"
"Hm, so you don't know. Not that it matters. Now is not the time for you to know those two."
"Wait! You can't just expect me to leave without knowing who my daughters are! Who are they?!"
"We have spoken enough, Jaune. As I said, now is not the time for you to know them, but you will meet them properly. One day," he said as he raised his hand.
"WAIT! TELL ME! TELL ME WHO MY DAUGHTERS ARE!" Jaune then saw a bright light. "NOOO!"
"NOOO," Jaune roared as he sat up, hand outstretched, panting heavily.
He then looked at his hand, gritted his teeth, and slammed his fist against the wall, nearly breaking the entire structure. He then placed a hand over his eyes, tears falling down his cheeks at the knowledge he was denied a chance to father two girls.
"He didn't even tell me the name of their mothers," he said softly through his tears.
Jaune took a deep breath to calm himself before looking up at the ceiling. "Hiding my own children from me? That's low, Light."
"Are you surprised?" Jaune looked surprised before looking towards the voice, seeing his wife sitting next to his bed, legs and arms crossed and eyes closed. "My uncle and father are pretty selfish. They're the absolute worst that would rather be worshiped than fix the problems of the world, even if it's of their own making. Why do you think I HATE my side of the family?"
Jaune stared at his wife, dumbfounded. He then reached over and grabbed her hand.
"Hm?"
Jaune then kissed her hand. "It's real."
Nimueh giggled. "Did you think I was a dream?"
"My sexy goddess of a wife who can only manifest if I or our son fills her with Aura being next to me as soon as I wake up in a hospital? How could I not think this was a dream?"
"Well, I suppose I am beautiful enough to be one," Nimueh joked.
Jaune chuckled as he sat over his bed. "So, where's Arie? Isn't he with you?"
Nimueh sighed. "No. He's in the recovery ward like you."
"What? But then, how are you here?"
"Believe it or not, it's thanks to the New Mantle Science Division."
Jaune blinked. "Dante? How did he give you your form back?"
"Apparently, he's been working on a new gadget. A sort of portable you."
"A... portable... me?"
"Maria calls it the Aura Battery. If your Aura gets too low or even shatters, you use the Battery to recharge yourself. So, basically a mini metal you."
"Uh-huh. There's no way a tiny box gave you your form back. You guzzle enough Aura to put even me in the red."
"He put me in a prototype chamber. I ate up all ten of the division's stored Aura Tanks," she snickered.
Jaune chuckled. "Sounds like my gluttonous wife alright."
Nimueh flicked him. "Don't call me a glutton, babe."
Jaune chuckled as he rubbed his forehead before he looked serious. "So, where is he? You know, right?"
"Of course, I do," she said as she and Jaune stood up. "Whenever anyone gives me their Aura and survives, I form a mental bond with them. I know what they're thinking and where they are. It's why I know what that bastard uncle of mine asked of you and..." Nimueh groaned. "What you plan on doing next," she complained.
"Nim, if I'm going to take on your old man, I'm going to need armor that won't shatter as it did against the Abominable."
"Yeah, yeah. I get it, but does it have to be him? I JUST said how much I HATE my side of the family. I barely tolerate Glynda!"
"I get it, but Ambrosia is the only one who can make a set of armor that can withstand the power of a god. Of course, I'd need blueprints, but fortunately, we're in New Mantle."
Nimueh crossed her arms and raised an eyebrow. "You really think Dante is going to have plans for armor that can withstand magic as powerful as my father's?"
"Nim... it's Dante."
Nimueh stared at her husband before she shrugged. "Fair enough. Now, before we see our kid, not that I'm complaining, but is that enough cover for you?"
Jaune looked down and saw that he was shirtless. All he had on were his pants. His shoes were gone, his arm was bandaged, and he had wrappings all over his chest, but it didn't hide his chiseled features in the least. If anything, the wraps hugged his muscles, showing off his abs and pecs.
"Uh, is there a change of clothes in the closet?"
"Just another Ace Op uniform," Nimueh said as she opened the door.
Jaune sighed. "Of course."
The two then walked towards Argent's room, reaching it right as a nurse left it. The nurse walked away without noticing the two, not even hearing them enter their son's room.
Jaune and Nimueh stood over the sleeping Argent, Jaune was saddened to see the black and purple bruises on his face. "A Hound did this?"
"Sent by you-know-who," Nimueh said as she angrily crossed her arms.
Jaune then got an angry expression. "I hope he does come to Remnant now. No one does this to my kid and gets away with it." Jaune then held his hands over Argent and activated his Semblance.
Moments later, the boy was surrounded by his own golden Aura as it was being charged by his father. His bruises quickly went away, his scratches gone, and the boy's previously pained expression softened. He then gasped before shooting up from his bed. "Who?! What?! When?! Where?!"
"As energetic as ever."
Argent looked up. "Dad! Mom! You two are okay," he went as he hugged his parents.
"Of course we're okay," Nimueh laughed. "We're your parents. We need to be tough if we wanna take care of you."
Jaune rubbed his son's hair before gently pulling his head back to look into his son's eyes. "Arie, did you really fight a Hound?"
"That's the name of the Grimm I fought? It was seriously strong. I've never fought a Grimm that powerful."
"I'm honestly hoping you never would. The Hound is a special type of Grimm. It was thought only Salem could make them."
"My ancient grandma?"
"That's right. I fought one when I first came to Atlas with your Aunt Yang and Uncle Ren. It ambushed us to kidnap your Uncle Oscar, and we were pretty much powerless against it. As such, I'm proud of you for holding your own against it."
Argent gave a proud toothy smirk. "Ow," he went after Jaune konked his head. "But I'm also angry at you for taking on such a monster. You're strong, Argent. You've received training from the best of the best, have considerable skill, and an amazing Semblance; but those alone don't make you invincible. There are some things in this world that not even you can take on just yet. A good Huntsman doesn't just need skill, but wisdom. They need to know when they are outmatched and outclassed. There's no shame in running away from an unwinnable fight. You just need to survive until you're strong enough to overcome that challenge. Do you understand, son?"
Argent stared into his dad's eyes before nodding. "I understand, dad. I guess I should be grateful to Shiva and Aunt Weiss, huh? Oh, and Mr. Marrow."
Jaune chuckled. "Yeah. It's good to have allies, kiddo," he said as he ruffled his son's hair.
"So, what now," Argent asked as he got out of bed.
"Now, we find you some actual clothes," Nimueh said as she and Jaune looked at Argent with blank looks.
Argent raised an eyebrow before looking down. "Why am I in a dress?"
"It's actually called a hospital gown, kiddo," Jaune said.
"Why am I in it?"
"Sanitation," Nimueh went with a shrug before walking away.
"I think I'd rather wear that lame New Mantle uniform Aunt Winter made me wear."
"Oh, good," Nimueh said.
Argent looked towards his mom to see her open a closet to show the uniform he hated.
Argent then sighed as he slumped over in defeat.
Winter walked into the room Jaune was supposed to be in to see he was gone. "Get me a camera feed on his room! Last hour!"
"He just got up and got dressed, ma'am. Remember, his healing is extraordinary with that Grimm Body of his. Not to mention combined with his Semblance, he's practically immortal."
"Where did he go?!"
The soldier jumped before checking. "Um... he went towards Argent's room!"
Winter immediately stormed past the soldier. 'Arc, I know you have a bad habit of leaving without telling anyone! Not this time, hero. You need to be kept safe. Everyone needs protecting, even heroes like you,' she thought.
Ruby walked up to a nurse. "Excuse me. I'd like to know the status of my son's condition?"
"Hm? Oh, Mrs. Schnee."
"Schnee-ROSE."
The nurse looked embarrassed. "E-Excuse me, Mrs. Schnee-Rose. I just came from your son's room. He's recovering just fine. He hasn't regained consciousness yet, but he's just fine, I assure you."
"Can I see him?"
"Oh, of course. Your rank alone as an International 2nd Class Huntsman gives you special privileges. Being his mother only makes it easier," the nurse giggled as she led Ruby to Argent's room. "Here you are, ma'am."
Ruby carefully opened the door. "Cookie? It's your mom. Your ACTUAL mom, not your-" Ruby went as she entered the room. The smiling nurse looked confused when she heard silence. She then looked worried when Ruby wordlessly stepped backward out of the room, her eyes wide. She then felt scared when Ruby looked at her, eyes wide with worry. "Where is my son?"
The nurse's eyes widened. "What?" She then walked in and gasped. She didn't hesitate to run over to a monitor and type into it, Ruby following her. She then sighed in relief. "It was only his father. Wait, he entered as soon as I left. Sneaky man," she giggled. "As you can see, Mrs. Schnee-Rose, your son is just-EEP!"
If looks could kill, Ruby would have turned the monitor into molten steel. "JAAAAAAAAAAAAAAUUUUUNE!"
"Did you hear something," Jaune asked.
"Babe, we're in the Science Division," Nimueh went as she gestured towards the window right at the moment experimental weapons were being tested.
"Good point," Jaune said as he lifted the starry-eyed Argent, who was watching the weapons being tested.
"OOH, DAD! LOOK! THAT WOULD BE A PERFECT UPGRADE FOR CROCEA MORS! IT'D BE LIKE THE KING'S GLAIVE!"
"That's why we have the Glaive, kiddo."
"OOH, THAT LOOKS AWESOME! CROCEA WOULD BE LIKE A FIRE BLADE WITH THAT!"
"We have our Wind Slash. We don't need Dust."
"HEY, MAYBE WE CAN PUT THAT ON NEVERFLAME! HE'D BE FASTER THAN EVEN AUNT WINTER'S MANTA!"
"Honey, Neverflame would need seats. You know, to keep you and me from flying off of it," Nimueh went.
"HEY, LET'S ASK MR. DANTE IF HE CAN DO THAT TO NEVERFLAME!"
"No," Jaune went.
"Are we going to ask this Ambrosius guy to do it, then?"
"Arie, I'd rather not depend on my brother for too much."
"Wait, Ambrosius is my uncle?! Cool! When can we meet him?!"
"As soon as we get your Aunt Jinn and some documents from Dante."
"Are we sure we can't just leave my sister," Nimueh pleaded.
"Nim."
"Boo," she pouted.
"Come on. Your sister isn't that bad."
"She ruined your surprise proposal to me."
Jaune sighed.
The family then reached Dante's office, Jaune knocking on the door. "Aw, who am I kidding?" Jaune then turned the nob and tried to push the door open, only to feel resistance.
"Guess he locked it," Nimueh shrugged.
Jaune sighed. "Nim, you know he doesn't lock the door." Jaune then pushed the door open. When he did, documents fell in front of the family. All three blinked at the pile before looking up to see a pigsty. There were documents, books, and blueprints everywhere.
"Dad, should I have brought swimming trunks?"
"Yup. And your mom should have worn her bikini."
"Either that, or we should have brought your canoe."
"I remember that! I caught a trout that vacation," Argent said proudly.
"While I had to punch an Ursa out of our campsite," Nimueh sighed.
"And you looked hot doing it," Jaune said as the family stepped into the room.
"I know."
"WHOA," Argent went as he fell through the papers. Jaune lifted him out and placed the boy on his shoulders. "How does he get any work done with all these documents?"
"Maria's been asking herself that question for years," Jaune said as the three reached the secluded desk.
Jaune then knocked on the desk. "Dante," he said at the pile of papers in front of him. "Dante?" No response. He then sighed. "Oh, no. The experiment was too difficult to complete. Let's just throw out the blueprints," Jaune said monotonously with his arms crossed.
"YOU WILL DO NO SUCH THING UNTIL YOU SHOW ME THE BLUEPRINTS," Dante yelled as he sprang from the pile, bags under his eyes. "Oh, hey Jaune," he said with a smile.
Jaune sighed. "Hey, Dante"
Dante yawned as he stretched, his joints popping loudly. He then opened a desk drawer to take out a pill and a bottle of water. After he popped the pill in and took a swig, he started to shake before yelling, "WHOOOOO-HOO-HOO-HOOOO! THAT'LL WAKE YOU UP!"
"There's no way that much caffeine is good for you," Jaune deadpanned.
"Oh, don't worry, Jaune. I tweaked the formula. It also has ginseng and ashwagandha now, with some peppermint for flavor. Want some," he offered as he took out a pill bottle."
"I'm good," Jaune said. "I'll stick to tea."
"Ms. Branwen must be quite the tea maker to get you so addicted to it," Dante said as he put the bottle away.
"That she is. Ow," Jaune went after Nimueh elbowed him.
"Now, what can this mad scientist do for you," Dante asked as he picked up a few documents.
"You have Jinn, don't you," Jaune stated, already knowing the answer.
Dante pushed a few other documents off his desk.
"See, this is why your office is a damned savage land," Nimueh went.
Dante pushed a cover off of his desk, revealing a keypad. He quickly typed in a code before pressing ENTER. A part of the wall behind Dante then opened, revealing the floating Lamp of Knowledge. "Here she is. We couldn't charge her with Aura since we used every last bit of Aura we had stored away to give your wife her body back." Nimueh gave a peace sign.
"Well, guess it's a good thing I have my Semblance."
"OH! That reminds me," Dante went as he dug into his desk again. He then tossed something to Jaune.
He easily caught it before looking. "What is it? It's the size of a scroll but as thick as a brick."
"That is a Mecha-Jaune," Dante said proudly.
"Come again?"
Nimueh sigh. "Maria calls it the Aura Battery. Dante was inspired to make them based on you and your Semblance. It's the portable version of what brought me back."
"Aura Battery, huh?"
"And that is my very first successful prototype. It's the only one of its kind as of yet. Once completed, anyone can charge it, say when they go to bed or on their day off or something. If their Aura is ever shattered by overusing their Semblance or receiving one too many hits, that baby would save a lot of lives," Dante explained. "I'd like for you to have the very first successful Aura Battery, Jaune."
"You want me to have your first success? You haven't done that since you upgraded the King's Glaive with the Aura Cannon."
"Let's face it, you'll need that more than most. If the Battle Against the Elders showed us anything, it's that not even your Aura is unbreakable. Something tells me you're going to be going up against some seriously powerful monsters in the upcoming future, right?"
Jaune sighed. "Can't argue with that."
"Hopefully, that thing will be able to save you and your family in a pinch. Just be warned, it's a once-a-day type of thing. It needs to cool down, and it can only hold so much Aura. I think its current max is... all of YOUR Aura, Jaune."
"So I can fill this thing up by completely draining myself. Good to know," Jaune said as he looked at the device.
"I don't have the material to make more or upgrade it. Solitas might be rich in Dust, but not so much in other materials. Vale and Vaccuo hold the market on that front. Who knows, maybe Ms. Branwen might have some useful material, being the leader of Anima's greatest bandit tribe and all that."
"Doing business with my ex. Yeah, that doesn't sound weird at all."
"Why not do it with Sparrow," Argent asked.
"Oh, yeah. My illegitimate son whom was kept a secret from me for thirteen years. That's much less awkward." Jaune sighed. "Still, they're family. I should rely on them. Help them out as much as they help me."
"You realize Raven might ask you to do some unsavory jobs instead of money, right," Nimueh asked with half-lidded eyes.
"Knowing her, she would probably have us take down either a rival tribe or try to take over a Dust mine," Jaune sighed.
"But as I said, you could also find material in Vale," Dante said.
"You think Aunt Glynda could help," Argent went, not noticing Nimueh's twitch.
"Uh, yeah. Glynda definitely knows some ways to help... after she's done yelling at me," Jaune mumbled the last part. "Wait, I wonder... is Neo still in Sanus? She might know something," he muttered.
"Dad?"
"Hm? Oh, it's nothing, kiddo. Though, how will we know the best material?"
"Oh, with this," Dante said as he tossed something else at Jaune.
"My watch?"
"I made some improvements. Now you won't turn red when you use magic."
Jaune blinked at Dante. "How do you know about that?"
"Cameras," he said as he pointed up, the family looking to see a camera.
"YOU'VE BEEN WATCHING US," Nimueh yelled as she slammed her hands on the desk.
"Mrs. Arc, this is Atlas Tower, filled with some of the most advanced weapons and technology in the world. We need to keep vigilant. There are cameras literally everywhere, even in the bathrooms."
Nimueh blushed. "Y-YOU PERVERT!"
"Don't worry. The cameras have sensors and special lenses that deactivate the cameras during special circumstances, such as human and Faunus body temperatures not being covered with clothing or high traces of certain... pheromones."
Jaune stiffened. "P-Pheromones?"
"Uh... w-what kind of... pheromones," Nimueh asked nervously.
"The kind that made the camera in YOUR room deactivate for three whole hours the night before the Battle Against the Elders. Seriously, you two have incredible stamina, even factoring in Jaune's Aura and the fact you're a Spirit, Nimueh." The couple blushed, Jaune's white face turning red.
"Mom, Dad, what's he talking about," Argent asked with genuine confusion and curiosity.
"YOU DON'T NEED TO KNOW," the parents yelled in unison, making the scientist and the child jump in surprise and fear.
A/N: You wanna know something about me? I have a habit of writing stories in the vane of video games. I think: If this were a video game, what would the next moment be? And so, Dante's Optional Side Quest to upgrade the Aura Battery appeared. Every RPG has optional side quests. Right now, the Quests are:
Main Quest- Head to Vaccuo to find Ambrosius
Side Quest- Obtain material to upgrade the Aura Battery
#Find the Branwen Clan in Anima
#Meet with Glynda in Beacon Academy
#Find Neo in Sanus
Personally, I'd look for Raven. She'd probably be the most help, being a bandit and all. Plus, helping her will get you the Branwen Market bonus. One of the many markets throughout Remnant. Since the Branwen Tribe is nomadic, you're going to have to search, and almost every time you find them, Raven will have a job for you. Her market will also usually have rare and unique items that you can only get from her and her tribe. Of course, you can get regular stuff from her, too. Food, supplies, some armor stats (usually stuff like necklaces and rings) and even information.
Example of dialogue for when you go up to Raven:
"Oh, you're back."
"Hello, lovers." (Yes, she's referring to Nimueh as well)
"Have anything of value?"
Oh, and lien gets you the LEAST valuable items. If you wanna get the good stuff, you're going to have to trade away your Dust, valuable materials, and the Rare Equipment you get from taking down High-Class Criminals.
More dialogue examples:
"That should do." (When you purchase)
"Not even for you." (When you don't have enough)
"Ooh, are you flirting with me?" (When you purchase something of high value)
"Here's what we've found." (When you purchase information)
"Ooh, are you sure you want to part with this?" (When you sell something valuable)
"Hard times, hero?" (When you sell something cheap)
"Ooh, you must want me to reward you." (When you sell a high quantity of something valuable, like Dust)
"*chuckle* You're practically giving this away." (When you sell something of high value)
Raven won't be the only one you talk to. Sometimes it will be Sparrow.
Dialogue of walking up to Sparrow:
"Hello, father/Hey, dad. Mother/mom isn't here, but we have more than enough to do business without her."
"Mind if Argent and I go a few rounds?" Argent: "Please, dad?"
"Have a gift for mother/mom?"
Now for the shop dialogue:
"This should make mother/mom happy." (Purchase)
"Just because I'm your son doesn't mean I'll just give it away." (Not enough funds)
"Ooh, you're as wealthy as mother/mom says." (High value purchase)
"This should help you, father/dad." (Purchase info)
"Are you selling this or is this a late birthday present," Sparrow snickers. (High value sell)
"Mm, is the Arc fortune dwindling? Maybe you should join us, father/dad." (Low value sell)
"Trying to purchase your son's love? I can't say I disapprove," Sparrow chuckles. (High quantity sell of high quality)
"Wow. You do love us." (Sell high value)
If you go to Glynda first, you'll get the Beacon Training bonus. Best place to get experience and it never moves around, but you do get new challenges.
"Though it is during the Months of Rest, Huntsmen should continue to improve. That includes you, Jaune," Glynda said.
You can choose to play as Jaune, Argent, or Nimueh; each having their own special missions.
Jaune could have a shooting range, where he uses his magic to blast whatever Glynda throws at him. The more challenges his completes, the more Magic EXP. he'll gain. Argent could have a Battle Exercise, where he can take on Oobleck, Port, or even Glynda herself. Warning, no matter what your level, these three will be insanely strong to make sure you're kept on your toes. Fortunately, you'll get exp. if you lose, but you'll get a CRAP TON if you win! Finally, Nimueh would have Time Limit challenges. Take out X amount of Z before time's up, symbolizing her dependance on Jaune's Aura. Complete these, and her Aura Consumption will be decreased.
Talk Dialogue:
"I hope you're here for training or information." (Note: Glynda's information isn't as valuable as Raven's or Neo's.)
"I may be a busy Headmistress, but I'll always make time for you troublemakers."
"Is Argent keeping up with his studies?" Argent: "Aunt Glynda," he groans.
"Sister." Nimueh: "Glynda."
Beginning Jaune's courses:
"You need to be more precise with your magic."
"Remember, Jaune, this power is more dangerous than any gun."
"Be sure to hit only the target."
Fail: "Even now, you still need me to teach you." (Note: she sounds a bit happy)
Barely pass: "You still have much to learn." (Sounds pleased)
Perfect Score: "Amazing. Do you... still need me?" (Sounds a bit sad)
Beginning Argent's courses:
-Oobleck
"Riveting! Your father wasn't one of my best students during class, but he's grown into a fine young man. Show me if he raised one."
Conditions met: "Very well done, Mr. Arc."
Conditions met but K. : "You have much to learn, but you have still done well."
Failed to meet conditions but alive: "Mm, you need to try harder, young man."
Failed conditions and K. : "Oh, dear. My boy, you need to study more appropriate battle strategies."
Conditions met and victory: "Outstanding, Mr. Arc! Your father should be very proud of you!"
-Port
"Ho-ho! Your father has grown into a very manly hero! Show me you are capable of the same manliness!"
Conditions met: "Fine work, my boy."
Conditions met but K.O.: "Learn from this to become even manlier!"
Failed to meet but alive: "Survival is part of being a man.
Failed and K.O.: "Aah, still but a boy."
Met and victory: "HO-HO! A MAN STANDS BEFORE ME!"
-Glynda.
"Show me my sister has raised you well."
Conditions met: "You are being raised adequately."
Met but K.O.: "You deserved to have been taught better."
Failed but alive: "What are those two teaching you?"
Failed and K.O.: "Leaving Jaune was a mistake."
Met and victory: "I'm proud of you, Argent. I truly mean that."
Begin Nimueh courses:
"Sister, you drain too much Aura."
"Let's see if you're as fast as you are destructive."
"No one has unlimited Aura, least of all, us."
Fail: "Are you trying to put our family in danger?!"
Barely pass: "I worry for Argent and his father."
Perfect Score: "Please... protect our family."
Neo will arguably be the hardest to find, given her Semblance. But Jaune will eventually unlock skills to make it easier to find her, but she sometimes leaves clues. Once you gently grab her shoulder:
"Ooh, you found me."
"Hello, love."
"You're getting better."
But sometimes, she finds you:
*taps Jaune's shoulder* "Hello, deary."
*screen turns black* "Peek-a-boo, guess who." When Jaune can see, he turns to see a smiling Neo. "Hello, love."
*Argent laughs, making Jaune look behind him to see Neo hugging and kissing Argent's cheek* "Hello, my dears."
She'll have valuable information that she'll only give if you have something she wants or agrees to take a job.
Eventually, Anita will have dialogue, too.
Before you know the truth:
"Hello, Mr. Arc."
"Hello, Sir Knight."
"I heard you knock, my dear hero."
After truth:
"A pleasure to see you again, father."
"You wished to see me so badly, father?"
"My, my, did you miss me so greatly?"
What did you think? Would you play King of Grimm if it was an RPG? Which route would you take? Would you go find Raven, search for Neo, or go straight to Glynda? Would you grind by training with Glynda, get better gear and items by working for and buying from Raven, or would you trade and/or do jobs with/for Neo?
Please leave a review about this. I'm genuinely curious to know how you guys would play. Also, what part of this is your favorite? Raven's Dialogue? Glynda's Dialogue? Neo's? Or maybe the other characters? Do tell me. My friend says that his personal favorites were Raven and Neo's dialogue.
Oh, and leave a review about the actual chapter, while you're at it.
Until next time!
