Disclaimer: I don't own RWBY and Dragon's Crown they are the rightful property of Rooster Teeth, Atlus and Vanillaware.
Italics are thoughts
Bold and Italics are flashbacks
The Chapter 5 Old Capital
(Location: ruins outskirts of the royal capital Kingdom of Hydeland)
Jaune and his party were ready to set out to the Old Capital. Their next quest is to find Tommit the Bandit who has stolen the royal scepter. They have all prepared everything for their quest and ready to leave when they suddenly saw someone in front of the magic gate. The group has stopped as they saw the Beastmaster along with her two saber tooth. Turns out the dark elf has been waiting for them all along. They were taken back when she told them she was planning to go with them. As in, joining the party. That was something either of them were expecting. The blond Huntsman didn't saw a problem with it. After hearing what the Beastmaster can do she can be a good addition to the group. He didn't had a problem with having another member. It will increase their chances at succeeding in the quest. Turning to his party they didn't seemed to have a problem. Except Elf.
The Arc had to stopped the elven archer from charging at the dark elf. There was definitely a lot of bad blood between them. Though the Beastmaster was more clam and she wasn't showing it like the hooded girl. The blond knight felt like this was going to be troublesome if she does join them. Clearly she wasn't happy with this revelation. He was able to calmed her down while staring at the dark elf. She was smiling, which it was very weird to see. She would hardly do such when he first met her. Guess the talk they had last night has really changed her mind. But seeing how Elf didn't like her it was clear both species weren't fond of the other. That wasn't a good thing. It will be hard to be party with having members disliking each other. It will mean trouble and team work will be affected. Who knows how hard this next quest is going to be. Better make sure it was true before making a decision.
"Can you repeat that again?"
"As I said. I'll be joining you from now on."
"Why? You didn't seemed interested when we first ran into you. And didn't you said you had business elsewhere?" Elf wasn't taking this lightly.
"My business is my own. But for now, I would like to assist you on your quest. I'm certain you don't have a limit to the number of members you can have."
"Yes we do-"
"Elf" Jaune turned to her trying to calm her down before turning to the dark elf beauty" no, we don't have a limit. Are you sure you want to come with us?"
"I'll be a great asset in battle. Your journey will be easier with me around."
"We can't trust her" muttered the elven archer.
"I don't have a problem if you want to join us" his comment made the elven girl frowned" what about you guys? Any objections with the Beastmaster coming with us?"
"I don't mind. Increasing our numbers is supportive for the success of a quest" replied Sorceress.
"I don't care. I just want to fight now that I'm filled with energy" followed Amazon.
The Arc turned to Elf who only pouted, clearly she was against the idea as he shook his head. He will have to deal with this before doing the quest. He wasn't going to risk it if his party gets hurt because two members don't like each other.
"That's three votes in favor against one. So, welcome aboard Beastmaster."
"Thank you. You won't be disappointed."
"You're going to regret it" muttered the elven archer.
"Since we have a new member. It will be better if you tell me more about your fighting style and techniques so I can arrange battle formations. I have already prepared a few strategies that will help us during any quest. Adding you, means I have to change things."
"Of course. As you already know I'm a dark elf with my specialty being beast craft magic. I can tame any beast, aiding me in battle. My companions here will make the fights easier" she pointed to the two saber tooth tigers as she petted their heads. I can cast magic but mainly supportive types as to increase one's defense or offense. As I can also fight in close range."
The dark skinned beauty has taken a long spear from one of the many bags of one of the saber tooth" my wand is for beast craft magic. I mostly fight with my spear handed down by the dark elven tribe for generations. It gets the job done."
"I'm sure it does" Jaune nodded impressed as he was coming up with a new battle strategy.
"Just to let you know. The Harpy eggs have arrived to my tribe. They're in good hands."
"Thanks Beastmaster" the blond felt so grateful for her help.
Elf still wasn't happy but she acknowledges dark elves are also good fighters. Asides from using beasts to aid them in battle. Having the Beastmaster by their side will surely made their future quests easier. But she still didn't like the idea. This was going to be hard. And to think she was having a great time with these people. She felt like she was getting close with these humans. They were different from what her kind told her. But now, a dark elf will be traveling with them. This was going to be tough for her. She was getting along with everyone but she will never see herself getting along with someone like her. Better to suck it up for now, until the quest is clear. The elven archer was hoping the dark elf doesn't stay permanent with them.
"Okay, that will be enough. I'll come up with the new formation when we get there. Remember, once we arrived we have to keep our guard up and stick close."
Everyone gave a nod. Elf only sighed mentally knowing she will have to be closer to the dark elf. It made her feel so uncomfortable.
Once they appeared from being transported by the gate. Jaune immediately went with the new battle formation. It wasn't that different but it will have to do. Since Beastmaster was a close range fighter too, she will be in the front with him and Amazon. Sorceress will remain in the center for support with her magic and one of the saber tooth will be with her too. Elf remains in the back with her prime role of watching the party's back. The second saber tooth will be with her, aiding her on the rear. Having creatures by their side was a good thing. The dark elf was truly a fine addition to their group. The more the merrier as they say. Or Qrow was the one who said that once. That line brought the Huntsman memories from the battle of Haven. This wasn't the time to be thinking of the past. They were in the middle of a quest, they were now facing danger. Everyone has readied their weapons.
The party wasn't that far from their destination. It was the same with the Temple Ruins. The gate has transported them near the Old Capital. The place was all in ruins it's to be expected since it was destroyed by an invasion from the northern empire. Remembering Sorceress's words. There was entrance in the distance. The party walked slowly in the formation assigned by Jaune, keeping their guard up with their weapons readied. Elf's ear picked up something but it was the same with the dark elf. She made the first move mounting one of the saber tooth. There was a group of five goblins ready to attack. The Beastmaster charged in with her feline companion, the sharp claws crushed the wooden shield as it's fangs bite on the creature's neck killing it. The dark elf killing another with her spear while Jaune and Amazon joined the fight. Sorceress aiding them using fire and ice burning and freezing the goblins. They were all taken out in seconds.
Elf just stood there wide eyed shocked. It happened so far. She was able to detect the goblins but she was unable to attack any of them. The rest of the group beat them so quickly. It's like her reaction time wasn't fast enough. And to think she was the quickest, and the fastest when it comes to archery. The Beastmaster was the first person to take action, standing on her saber tooth proud, like a general that has won a war. She nodded in approval in the monsters in this place were similar to the goblins then everything will be fine. Jaune smiled complimenting her as she smiled. This made the elven archer frowned, it was the same with Amazon and Sorceress too. They fought too, and helped. It wasn't just the dark elf who did the all the work. Then the blond leader smiled to the rest complimenting them too. That was enough to make them smiled getting acknowledged by him. Still, Elf wasn't going to let this slide.
The archer sensed incoming footsteps. This time, she acted making the first move. She broke formation passing through the others. This shocked Jaune and everyone. She fired many arrows at the incoming Orcs. One get killed as all of the arrows hit its head. The other was decapitated by the Beastmaster's spear, still riding the saber tooth. There was a small silence after the creatures were beaten. The two elves were staring at each other, eyes locked. It's like sparks were shooting from their eyes. The Arc stood speechless at what just happened. It was so fast and the fight went so quick. Unlike regular goblins, Orcs aren't that easy to beat. Even for the regular type, they were still a challenge. The dark elf just ignored her, this elf was truly stubborn. Or maybe she was feeling left out. Because she was no longer the only left in the group. What a childish way to think. Even if the archer should be way older than any human.
"Jaune, is it normal for members of your party to disobey your orders?"
"I didn't disobeyed his order!" defended the hooded archer.
"You broke formation" replied the Beastermaster making the statement.
"She's right. What's going on Elf? It's not like you. You did so well back at the temple ruins. So why now?"
"I'm sorry I saw the Orcs coming before any of you could. So I decided to take them on."
"As do I. But I didn't broke formation."
"She's right again" said the Arc" Beastmaster is in the front with me and Amazon."
"I…." the elven archer gave a soft nod as she returned to the back with the second saber tooth.
"That was easy. I was hoping for a challenge" said the female warrior.
"Let's not lower our guard yet. We still haven't enter the ruins of the old capital city" replied Sorceress.
"True. Everyone keep your guard up and…." Jaune turned to Elf" stay in formation."
This only made elven girl teared up but she hide it. Her behavior was noticed by the witch of the group. It's to be expected this sort of thing was going to happen. The rivalry between Elf and the Beastmaster was stronger than expected. As well as their hostility to the other since they were difference species. The magic user wanted them to solve their difference but from the look of things, it wasn't going to happen. Maybe she should tell her leader about it. But right now she couldn't risk it. They were in the middle of a quest. She kept her formation in the middle following the others inside.
The party walked the long hallway filled with some rubble on the sides. There were so many scorpions. Easy pickings but they still needed to be careful due to their poison. Jaune killed one stabbing it with his sword and squashed another with his shield. Amazon killed two with her large axe, the saber tooth Beastmaster was riding took a couple more while Sorceress froze the rest. Elf fired some quick arrows destroying the frozen creatures. Her ears picked up more enemies ahead. But the dark elf was the one to warned the blond leader first. The Arc killed a lizardman holding a trident while the Beastmaster has taken out the other one, that was blue one holding a spear. The dark skinned beauty said there weren't any more enemies present. That means they can continue going straight ahead to another entrance. The Huntsman kept his eyes on Elf, something was wrong with her. Guess it will have to wait when they were done here.
Both Elf and the Beastmaster has suddenly halted the group before going further to the entrance.
"There's someone ahead" said the dark elf.
"Judging from the footsteps, it's a human" Elf kept the competition going.
"It could be Tommit, we found him this quick. Looks like we might make it to town sooner than we thought. Good work you two" smiled the Arc.
The elven archer glared hoping to be the only one to get the compliment. The Beastmaster only pitied the girl from resuming this childish behavior. Did it mattered so much to her to be acknowledged by her human leader. How long was she going to keep this up. She was patient but even her patience has a limit.
Jaune didn't wanted to take another step. If Tommit was ahead then they couldn't risk making too much noise from their movements. From what he heard about him from Samuel he was a very skilled thief. Meaning, he could have good senses. He might even hear them coming. If that happens, he will make a break for it. So he needed to be very careful. The blond knight turned to Elf signaling her to go ahead first. He knew with her agility and speed she will be able to catch the bandit by surprise. He gave her an order to put an arrow on his leg to prevent him from running. It was a very good plan. The elven archer was so happy he ordered her for the task. She will be more than willing to do it. True she was light on her feet and she was quick. No one has ever notice her presences until it's too late. She wanted to see the look on the dark elf's face, but she declined the chance. Knowing she must be upset that her leader needs her and NOT her. Score one for her.
The archer girl took a small peek on the corner and there he was. A man in his late thirties with dark hair and eyes, with a black beard. Wearing a cloak with a hood, a yellow greenish vest with light brown pants and black leather pointy shoes. The perfect attire of a thief. Also there was a chest that was half opened with lots of gold and treasure, next to it a golden cup and a golden figurine of a Griffith. A candle to lit the small space. Tommit was holding a big white bag as he was gazing inside of it. Elf didn't saw the scepter on the chest so it must be in the bag. With bow in hand and an arrow ready to shoot, the elven archer was pointing at one of his knees. To her this was more than just a task. This was her chance to show Jaune and everyone how useful she is. That they can rely on her more than the Beastmaster. She wasn't planning to lose to her.
And it happened so sudden. She released the arrow but its destination was wrong. Chest nut eyes widened in absolute shock. Elf couldn't believe it, she has missed. She has actually missed her target. This was the first time this has happened to her. The arrow hit part of Tommit's cloak, enough to get his attention as he gasped. The elven girl stood frozen due to her shock not believing it was true. Beastmaster immediately went to action going in riding the saber tooth as the beast pinned the thief to the ground. The rest of the party went in. Jaune took has taken a glance at the archer noticing her shock. It was a shock to him too that she will missed. She was exceptional in archery her accuracy is flawless. He wanted to talk to her but now, wasn't a good time. Now that they have the great bandit at their mercy.
"You're Tommit, correct?" asked the dark elf.
"Don't hurt me!" pleaded the thief.
"You were so confident no one will come after you here with all the monsters roaming these ruins. Bet you weren't expecting experienced guild members. It was your downfall."
Jaune sweat dropped. He wouldn't consider himself and his party experienced guild members since this was their second quest. But he won't deny together they were strong. So he will play along with the Beastmaster.
"Don't kill me. What do you want?"
"You stole the royal scepter from Hydeland's castle?"
"That is true. It was my masterpiece" he didn't even denied it" I never thought I will ever get my hands on one of the kingdom's royal treasures."
"He admits to his crime. I suppose this is a success. We can take him back to town and let the royal guards handle him."
"Not before answering a few more questions" Jaune walked over to the pinned thief" I find it hard to believe you were able to infiltrate the castle just like that. Doesn't matter how good of a thief you are. Even someone like you wouldn't be able to do it, not on your own."
"…...…..…...…...…"
"Someone helped you get in, right? Someone who wanted your services? Someone who wanted you to steal the scepter?"
Tommit remained silent as the claws of the saber tooth pushed a little harder on his chest. He gave a nervous smile. Beastmaster put the tip of his spear right on his head.
"Better answer the questions thief. Or my pet might start sharpening his claws on your body. Or I can be clumsy and my spear will accidentally pierce your head. Your choice."
"It's true. I am good but NOT that good. It's suicide to infiltrate the castle with the tight security. Until I was given access on one of it's secret passages. I was paid very handsomely to steal it."
"Who?! Who was it?! Who paid you to steal the scepter?!" shouted the party leader.
Tommit has taken something from his pocket. Too late for the dark elf to noticed as he threw it to the ground. The party was now surrounded by smoke. The saber tooth holding was confused as it let him go, giving the bandit the chance to escape. He only had time to take his bag of goods and leave everything else behind him. As the smoke starting clearing up the group realized he was gone.
"I should have known he will try to run away."
"We have to chase after him or we'll lose him" said Amazon.
"I doubt it. If this place is filled with monsters, he won't get that far. He's only a thief not a fighter. Most likely, he will find a spot to hide" replied Sorceress.
"Right, we have enough time to track him down" Jaune gazed at the Beastmaster and then at Elf.
The elven archer was still in the same spot since she failed her shot. She was still shocked. The Arc has had enough, he wanted to solve this after finishing the quest. But if this keeps up, the dynamic of the team will be jeopardize. That will be the last thing he would want.
"Okay, you two. I don't care if you're different races and you don't get along. But I'm not going to stand in and let you two continue your feud any longer. It's ends now!"
"I don't have a problem with her. But I'm disappointed I have to be the one to fix her mistake. She missed, an elf missed. If her people were here they would all be ashamed of her."
"Take that back…." the hooded archer glared at her even if she was about to tear up.
"How can you even missed? The thought of an elf missing her target is impossible. I suppose you're not as good as you claim to be."
"Shut up!" she shouted finally in tears.
"No you shut up!"
"No BOTH OF YOU SHUT UP!"
Everyone was shocked staring at the blond leader. Jaune was angry, really angry. There was a short silence in the small room. No one dared to say a word. First time seeing their party leader upset. It's like he was bottling up his anger all this time. The argument of the two elves has finally made him reached his limit. The Arc took a deep breath calming down a little. He never had a situation like this when he was leader of Team JNPR. His teammates got along well with him and each other. There was never a time when they will argue or get angry among themselves. They were perfect.
"Stop it, both of you stop. I don't want this. We're all on the same side. I'm not going to tolerate arguing and any disrespects among this party. We work together as a team and that means, we trust and respect each other. But that doesn't seem to be the case with you two."
"Trust and respect an elf? Inconsiderable!"
"Same with me, I could never trust let alone respect a dark elf!"
"This is making my head hurt" said Amazon.
"We should have seen this coming from the start" followed Sorceress.
"You see, this is what I'm talking about. We can't be an effective party if we have members that hate each other's guts, for what? Because you're different races? Why do you guys have to dislike each other so much?"
Neither of the two ladies said anything. It only made Jaune rubbed his forehead, he was agreeing with Amazon. His head was starting to hurt.
"Look, we're not going anywhere until this matter is solve right now! I don't care about the quest for the moment. Tommit is probably hiding from the monsters by now. So, he's not going anywhere and neither are we. Not liking an elf or a dark elf because you're different species, I'm sorry but I find that reason stupid" seriously it was no better than the hatred the faunus were receiving by the humans in his world.
"Is there a valid reason why you two will behave like this? Please, I want to know. We might have recently met but I know I can trust all of you. You guys are not just the members of my party but you're all my comrades and I see all of you as equals. I respect and trust all of you as equals. Not caring if you're an elf, a dark elf, a witch and an Amazonian that is ridiculously strong and eats like a hundred men."
Amazon actually nodded with her leader. She needs to keep her strength so she has to consume a lot of food.
"...…...…..."
"Beastmaster, why did you choose to join this party?" he turned to the dark elf.
"I feel like I have found my answer. For once I want to do something that is out of bounds from the usual lifestyle of my people. I am antisocial, I don't trust no one or myself. I want to change that. I decided to joined you Jaune because I want to see for myself what a human truly is. You have proven my assumptions of you wrong, ever since we first met. Perhaps I can learn to coexist and get adjusted being around humans. Traveling with you."
"You can learn to trust me too?"
"I suppose."
"If you chose to give me a chance because you think you can trust me, that's good. I don't have a problem with that. Then why can't you do the same for Elf?"
"That is easier said than done."
"Elf?" he turned to the hooded archer" do you feel the same way?"
She only nodded drying her tears.
"Well, we might be staying longer than I thought. Maybe by now, a monster found Tommit and ate him along with the scepter. I don't understand why you two refuse to get along just because you're from different races."
"It's more than just the difference of our race" spoke Beastmaster" it goes deeper than that. We have our reasons not to trust or like each other."
"And I would like to know what reason that is? I want you to learn to work together. If this keeps us, one of us might get in trouble because of your actions. I don't want the dynamic we have started to create within this group to be destroyed. Why do I want to know so bad that I'm being so stubborn about it? Because I care. I care for all of you. Amazon, Sorceress, Beastmaster and you Elf. I care for you in the same way and if anything happens to any of you I would never forgive myself. I have a right to worry for your safety, not as leader but as a friend."
Elf pulled her hood down so the blond didn't see the blush that struck her cheeks. Amazon turned the other way not knowing why she was feeling embarrassed. Her cheeks were red too. Sorceress pulled down her witch hat so he didn't saw her blushing face either. Beastmaster had no idea why she was so flattered and embarrassed at the same time. It was an unknown feeling. And why did she felt her face heating up.
"You don't want to tell me, okay? I'm only asking the two of you to put any differences you have aside and start working together."
"I'm sorry" Elf said not wanting to tear up again" it's my fault. I felt like Beastmaster was more useful than me and I wanted to prove myself. I want to be better than her. It must be the reason why I missed. The thought that she's better than me was clouding my concentration."
"You truly are childish" Beastmaster shook her head" I don't consider myself better than you. My specialty is beast craft magic, secondary to my skills with a spear. But I will never be as good as you with a bow. Dark elves don't have that potential to have inhuman accuracy and speed. Among your other skills. I should feel like you but I'm not. I will never feel inferior to any being. I am me, nothing else."
"Elf. There's no need to prove anything to us. We've seen what you can do. Remember the temple ruins? You were amazing. Each of us are aware that we have our strength and weaknesses. No matter how strong we are, we can't do this quest on our own. That's why we need each other. Strength in numbers, teamwork, trust and respect. That's what a party is all about. At least, that's what it means to me."
"I'm sorry…." she teared up again.
"You will never hold us back. Don't ever underestimate your skills" said Sorceress with a smile.
"You're the one that pierced heads and chests with your arrows in a blink of an eye. That's pretty impressive to me" followed Amazon.
"Now stop thinking like that. I want the positive determined Elf back" Jaune put his hands on her shoulders smiling as she blushed again.
"If we're done with this matter. Should we head out and find that thief already?" said the Beastmaster not liking the closeness between the blond and the elven archer.
"We had wasted too much time. Before we go, I am changing our battle formation."
This caught everyone's attention. Why change it now in the middle of the quest.
"The two saber tooth will join me and Amazon at the front, Sorceress will remain in the middle. And Beastmaster will join Elf on the back watching our rear."
"You want me to…." the dark elf gave a sigh having a feeling he was planning to do this.
"No questions ask. You two will learn to work together. Are we clear?"
Both elves nodded.
"Then let's get going everyone. We have a thief to catch."
The party finally left the left the place that was being used as Tomit's hideout. Jaune hoped Elf and Beastmaster will stat to get along. But right now, they have a quest to fulfill. They went in pursuit of the thief. The were now in a straight hallways with rubble in some areas. But the main path had water. The group walked over since it was very shallow. They weren't alone as they were suddenly surrounded by fishes swimming around them. These fishes were quite big. One of them jumped at them but it was killed and eaten by a saber tooth. Another jumped and met the same fate by the other beast. Amazon wanted to try them if the killer fish is good. More of them jumped from the water as Jaune sliced one in half, the same with the buffed woman. Sorceress burned one casting fire from her magic staff. There were more as a group appeared behind them. That's when Elf and Beastmaster took them down before they could jumped at the others.
Both elves turned to the other. They nodded, guess they were willing to work together. Though it was hard to say if they will bury the hatchet and get along. After clearing all the killer fish the party went further ahead, entering a new room. Tommit has probably gone deeper into the ruins of the old capital. The next place had some rubble but they were off from the water with a straight path and a pair of doors. More lizardmen showed up one with a trident and the other with a spear. The saber tooth tigers took them down biting off their heads. Jaune sweat dropped wouldn't want to be them. It looked very painful the way they will rip the heads with their sharp fangs and long tooth. Amazon broke down the door leading to a secret room. There was a chest and the female warrior broke the lock. Opening it, there was quite the loot. The Arc did the usual sharing the gold with his party. Beastmaster was surprised to received a big amount. She's not used of getting gold being handed to her.
Still, she wasn't going to complain as she placed her share in one of the pouches of the saber tooth. There was nothing else as they left the treasure room and kept heading forward, while killing some scorpions that were in the way. The party was suddenly ambushed by more lizardmen. A total six of the humanoid creatures. The group completely took them down while blocking and countering. Sorceress used a combination of fire and lightning, while Elf used her impact arrow skill killing three. Beastmaster was impressed by the display as expected of an elf. The party went to the next area of the ruins, it was wide opened. They could see more structures that was once the old capital city. The place was so big, anyone could easily get lost. They defeated more scorpions and lizardmen. It was hard to believe Tommit was able to made it this far.
Either he was incredibly lucky or fast enough to make it passed all the monsters. It was impossible for the thief to hide with all the creatures prowling the place. Which means he must have went ahead to find a safe spot. If he was using these ruins as his hideout he must know his way around. Maybe he managed to escape. Jaune hoped that wasn't the case. They needed to retrieve the royal scepter and return it to the castle at all cost. The sooner, the better. They climbed down a stair case when they heard a scream in the distance. That sounded like the bandit and it could mean he was in deep trouble. As they ran further they seemed to be in some sort of underground cavern. Like it was below the ruins. They heard another scream as they saw Tommit trembling in fear. Before him stood a draconic creature with green scales, yellow wings along with the stomach area leading to the tail and legs. It's eyes were glowing red. The party was shocked at the sight of the monster.
"Help me!" pleaded the great bandit.
"A dragon?!" said Jaune.
"No. It's a Wyvern. A different species of dragon that is more ferocious than the regular type" explained the Beastmaster.
"It must have gotten angry when it saw Tommit, seen him as a threat for invading it's territory. Us being present doesn't help either" said Sorceress.
The Wyvern was ready to fight its enemies. Tommit immediately went to the party wanting protection from them. While he was mentally grinning. This was the perfect chance. With them being busing dealing with the creature he will return to his hideout, take all of his loot and escape the ruins. A real shame he will have to find a new hideout now. Too bad he didn't got the chance to run because Amazon has suddenly punched him knocking him out cold. Thieves were petty cowards so of course the female warrior knew he will take his chances to high tail it out of here. Beastmaster has taken her ruby staff from one of the saber tooth, casting a spell. Their bodies were glowing infused with magic. It the defensive spell endurance beyond endurance, increasing their defense. She followed it up with strength beyond strength, increasing their physical power. Jaune didn't wasted time giving orders, he told everyone to go all out. This thing looked strong so he wasn't taking his chances.
The draconic creature spread its wing flying over the group. Releasing fire balls while flying in all directions. It was fast. Jaune glared at the wyvern if it was going to remain in the air it will be hard for him and the others to get close to it. They won't be able to lay a hand on it. Sorceress cast blizzard as Elf coated her arrows with the toxic extract. Firing poison arrows with one charged with the power shot. The saber tooth were unable to reached the flying creature. While Amazon and Beastmaster were attacking it in the air. The Wyvern dodged proving to be a fast and tough opponent. They needed to bring it back to the ground. This was the dragon's turf and it had the advantage in the air. Looks like ice wasn't harming it much so the witch cast another spell. Using thunderhead, the black cloud appeared releasing a thunderbolt. It was hurting it as Elf resumed releasing her poisonous arrows.
"It's not enough. We have to make sure it stays on the ground" the Arc stood in thought thinking of a plan.
"I got it!"
"Sorceress, Elf keep attacking it! Make sure it doesn't dodge or attempts to fly away!"
The witch and the archer nodded, resuming their attacks. The blond knight turned to the rest of the group telling Amazon and Beastmaster his plan. Both ladies were a bit taken back. Never thought of coming up with such strategy. The party leader mounted one of the saber tooth, the same with the female warrior. Both tigers charged at the Wyvern that was having a hard time to dodging magic and arrow attacks. They jumped as high as they could as both fighters jumped using the saber tooth like a catapult. They were able to reached the dragon creature. Jaune slashed the left side, while Amazon slashed the other side. It gave a cry of pain as it fell to the ground. That was it. That's all they need to fight it now. Beastmaster was able to stabbed it a couple of times. In addition it was under the poison effect thanks to Elf and it was still getting shocked from thunderhead.
"Now's our chance to finish it off!" shouted the Arc.
Just when it was all lost for the Wyvern it gave a loud roar that was heard all over the underground cavern. That didn't sounded good as the party found out. In seconds more wyverns arrived but they were colored different. They were white with gray and wine red under their wings. There were more than ten of them. It really wasn't looking good for the party. It's like their chances of success have been cut in half.
"They're female Wyverns! Be careful, unlike the male they can fire acid!" said the dark elf.
Acid, that was perfect. Just what they needed. Because there were so many of them they have released too much of it making it hard for the group to move around the area. Jaune glared, they had this fight won until the Wyvern called for reinforcements. This whole place was a nest of Wyverns meaning, more of them will eventually show up. The Huntsman didn't had a choice but to change his strategy. They were outnumbered and they needed to decrease those numbers until the male has been beaten. Sheathing Crocea Mors he changed the weapon to its Great Sword Mode. The weapon was strong in this form, thought he didn't had a shield now to block. He will have to try his hardest to use the sword to block any kind of attack.
"Everyone! Take out all of the female Wyverns, it doesn't matter if more show up. Do your best to keep their numbers at minimum. Amazon give me a hand with the leader!"
The ladies nodded fighting the many dragons with all of their strength. Beastmaster cut through many of them before they could release their acid. Sorceress used ice prison and cast her rock crusher spell squashing four at the same time. While Elf use her elemental lore and more poison arrows. The two saber tooth did their best biting and slashing any incoming Wyverns. They were all busy. Jaune and the Amazonian glance back at the male Wyvern that was flying, it released a fire ball as he dodged it. It went for a lunge attack, only to missed. The Arc was remembering the training he went through with Roland and Samuel. This thing will have to do better than that. Though the Wyvern was only defending its territory. This was no better than what happened with the Harpy. Still, the blond knight wasn't planning to hold back. Waiting for the dragon to make its move, letting the enemy have the first shot.
"Sorry pal. But it's us or you. And we have a quest to finish."
The male Wyvern released another fire ball as Jaune dodged it. Only to get lunged by the creature. It was trying to pin the blond using it's bit attack and tail swing. This thing was nothing. Not even close to matching the speed of the barbarian and the Guild Master. He experienced real strength first hand. This thing was just a push over. Using all his might, the Arc stabbed one of it's wings, Amazon with her berserk status kept slashing it until it was wounded badly, then moved the stomach, another successful stab. Memories of his training flooded his mind as the female warrior stood by his side. Using the great sword and the double bladed axe both sliced the Wyvern in half. It fell to the ground dead. By now many of the females wyverns were defeated, as others flew off. Some have released their eggs, leaving them behind. The party leader changed his weapon turning to his group, they were all fine. Another quest successfully fulfilled. He hasn't forgotten Tommit, the thief was still unconscious.
"I'm sorry it has to be this way."
"Everyone okay?"
"We should leave before more of them show up. You might have slayed the alpha male. But they could return with reinforcements to avenge their mate" said the Beastmaster.
"Amazon, tie Tommit up, we're bringing him with us."
The buffed woman nodded as the blond Huntsman went to the big bag the thief was holding. There were a lot of goods in it until he found what he was looking for. The royal scepter, it was still in perfect condition. So the quest was a success after all, that was a relief. Beastmaster has decided to picked up some of the wyvern eggs dropped by the females. Sure her beast craft magic couldn't tame dragon since they were too powerful. But she might give them a home. To be raised in a place where they won't harm people. After all their intentions weren't to kill the alpha male and others. They were only here to capture the thief. She placed the eggs in one of the pouches of a saber tooth. After they were all done, they left. It was time to return to Hydeland.
Tommit opened his eyes, feeling his head pounding. What a nightmare. He dreamed people from the Adventurer's guild found his hideout and they wanted the scepter he recently stole. He chased them away into the deeper parts of the ruins of the old capital. Until, he met a Wyvern. It wasn't really his day. But that was all just a bad dream. Then why his head was hurting like hell. He remembered he got punched by one of them before he blacked out. But that wasn't real. Eyes widened when he was staring at two saber tooth growling at him. Turning around he saw the members of the guild. They were outside of the ruins. And he was wrapped in ropes unable to escape. They had so much treasure, it was his loot that he worked so hard in stealing. So many memories and histories behind them and they were taking them just like that.
"My loot! What do you think you're doing?!"
"Keeping it or return it to their rightful owners" said Jaune coolly.
"I don't mind keeping it. I can buy a lot of food with this" said Amazon.
"I can buy more books and new equipment" followed Sorceress.
"Same with me. Maybe buy a new bow" said Elf.
"I honestly don't care. Maybe I'll throw it away. Or use it for something more important" said Beastmaster thinking of the wyvern eggs she took.
The great bandit stood paled" you can't! You have no idea how hard I worked to get my hands on all those treasures!"
"Yeah, you stole them" replied the blond Huntsman before getting serious" start talking Tommit. Who paid you to steal the scepter?"
The thief was still hesitant to say anything.
"We saved your life from the Wyvern if you haven't noticed. The least you can do to repay us, is answer the question."
"…...….."
"Who paid you to steal the scepter?" the Huntsman asked again.
"I don't know! He never told me his name."
"Then describe him! What did he looked like?"
"He was large, wearing a black hat, he's fat with a beard…."
Jaune's eyes widened. That description fitted perfectly with Prime Minister Gustaf, but that can't be. Turning to Sorceress she was shocked too. It doesn't make sense, the Arc was sure Count Dean was the one behind it. He wanted to take over the throne. Or maybe he was wrong. His head was starting to hurt so he told everyone they were heading out. They made sure Tommit was tied up pretty good and his mouth shut, as he was riding on one of the saber tooth. As they traveled Elf and Beastmaster has looked at each other, but that was just it. Neither has said a word to the other. The Huntsman mentally sighed, guess that can be count as a positive sign that they were starting to get along. They did worked well together during the Wyvern fight. Everyone went ahead as the party leader at a steady pace hoping that they weren't so far from Hydeland. The blond didn't noticed Sorceress next to him.
"I'd say this is a good start" the witch stared at the two elves.
"They're not arguing, they fought together and they're still not arguing. Yeah, a good start. But something tells me they have ways to go before they can really get along."
"Your speech had an impact on them. On all of us" she smiled.
"It's true. You're all amazing and I care for all of you not as leader but as a friend who wants to look after his comrades. I learned from my past experience that everyone's safety rest in my hands. So, I'm glad all of you can take care of each other."
"Yet, you still worried?" the busty beauty kept her smile.
"Yeah, that will never change. I'm glad we succeeded in another quest and got back the royal scepter. I'm wondering if what Tommit said is true."
"He described the Prime Minister" she nodded.
"I was sure Count Dean is the one who paid him to steal it. But now, I don't know. I don't know what to believe or who to trust."
"Since you're bringing this topic. I've been meaning to ask you. Back at the castle did you noticed something unusual about the princess?
"Princess Vivian?" Jaune turned to witch in thought" asides that she was so silent? She was off, her eyes and her body language. It felt like I was talking to a doll."
"You noticed too?" Sorceress nodded
"She's not herself is she?"
"You're right. The Princess isn't herself because she's under a spell."
"A spell? She's under the influence of magic?" the blond stood shocked.
"Mind control magic to be exact. I'm surprised no one in the castle hasn't noticed."
"But how? Is a magic user like you doing this? Is he hiding in the castle?"
"Not quite. From what I have read about mind control, it's a very advance spell. Only masters in magic can cast it. However, there are also other ways to cast it. Like objects or artifacts to amplify it."
"Like, an item?" blue eyes widened seeing the witch nodding to him.
"More like an accessory."
"She was wearing a necklace with a sky blue jewel in the middle and…." he was speechless.
"The Prime Minister had a ring and the color of the jewel is the same as the one as the necklace. Coincidence?"
"So, he's controlling her?"
"That is my assumption. When I first saw that necklace, I could feel the magic energy emitting from it. And the ring has the same magic. They're both connected."
"So Gustaf has the princess under his control? But why?"
"I have a feeling we will have to investigate this matter further."
"Yeah" he nodded shocked at everything the witch has told him.
"Can we hurry up? I'm hungry, can we set camp?" said Amazon.
"I think we have ways to go before reaching town. And it hasn't gone dark yet. I would like to return to Hydeland before it gets dark. Sorry Amazon."
"I can help" Sorceress has cast a spell her create food magic.
The buffed woman now had a piece of ham and a chicken leg. She was devouring the food.
"Oh yeah, I forgot you can do that" Jaune sweat dropped before gazing at the two elves" Elf, Beastmaster?"
The two on the front gazed at their leader.
"I'm glad you two chose to work together. Thank you. I hope you guys can continue learning teamwork."
"Like I said, easier said than done" replied the dark elf.
"I have no intention of being friends with her" followed the hooded archer.
The Arc only sighed they do have ways to go.
To be continued
-So I decided to changed things from the canon story. It was actually Count Dean who paid Tommit to steal the scepter. But I decided that Gustaf was the one to paid him to steal it to make him look more evil and a bastard. The first time I played the game I knew Dean wasn't a bad guy. He was doing things his way because he didn't had a choice. Gustaf has Vivian under his control and there's nothing he could do. Though I'm wondering how the princess broke free from the spell. I will be changing that in this story. Making it more believable.
-I feel bad for Elf. She was under pressure and felt like Beastmaster was going to replace her. She thought herself special being in Jaune's party because she's the only elf in the group. Elves are a proud species when she missed to hit Tommit she felt her pride was crushed. But don't worry I won't have her and Beastmaster butting heads like they are Natsu and Gray of Fairy Tale. Let's just say Jaune's speech really made the girl's respect for him grown even further. Both elves will try to set their differences asides and try to work together.
-Beastmaster took the wyvern eggs from the females. But I don't think she can tame dragons only beast type creatures or natural types. Since I won't be mentioning it what will she do with them. She will give them to the dragon riders (another art in the game). Turns out there's a group of dragon riders in the Adventurer's Guild. I will try to focus more on that as well as Beastmaster explaining what she did with the eggs.
-Reminder that this Saturday November 2nd I will upload the new chapter of the Journey to Redemption in the evening the beginning of volume 6
-Replying to reviews:
*Messiah of authors- I already have the fight with the red dragon planned. Don't know the Ancient Dragon I want everyone from the party to take it down as part of their role as chosen heroes.
*TheEmeraldMage- I envy you for meeting Colleen and. I suggest you buy Atelier Ryza because it's fun and because of Ryza's thickness. Also I just saw a trailer where they going to release Ryza without her yellow coat. So we can get a better view of her booty. Puberty has been good on her lol thick alchemist FTW! Thank you always for supporting my stories.
*Guest- I have uploaded RWBY and Friends Watched Resident Huntsman.
*JeanPaul Ayala- creo que no.
*MM Browsing- nope I won't be including them or the Fighter in this story. This story is more focus on Jaune and the female members of his party.
*Existential ERROR- I guess but if they want to be adventurers then they know they will have to fight and kill. Amazon lives for battle so she was glad. Elf and Sorceress were a little more understanding towards Jaune's reaction.
*Super2019DP- don't know what the future holds.
*Gabriel443- o si a mi tambien me gustan las elfas oscura son tan exoticas. Pero tambien tengo amor para las elfas normales lol.
*Redskye22- thank you hope you continue to enjoy it.
-As always thank you very much for all the favs, follows and reviews I really appreciate it.
Next time: The Ties that Bind