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
Chapter 11 Castle of the Dead
(Location: Village somewhere east Kingdom of Hydeland)
The new party of six members arrived at a small village. In a remote settlement to the east of the kingdom. Just your average village. Not that many houses, not that many shops, a few inns, a church. The folks were doing their usual labor while children were playing games like hide and seek or knights and monsters. This is where the magic gate has taken them. This is the destination of their next quest. Reading the information from the request form given by Samuel. There has been numerous reports of young girls going missing in the last week. Asides from being residents of this village the other thing they have in common. That they were about to get married. They needed to get more information on this before proceeding. This will be their first quest that needs an investigation. They couldn't just charged in and kill anything that moves without getting the details.
Anna was feeling comfortable traveling with these people. She just recently joined the Adventurer's Guild and became a member of Jaune's party. If the blond was so committed in helping her then, she won't mind lending him a hand. He has proven to be very stubborn and too good to be true. Very unusual trait to find in a man. In her experience she has met men who were arrogant, foolish, greedy, drunk and perverted. But the blond party leader was very different. He was determined with a spark to do the right thing. She admires chivalry and selflessness trying to do good for others. A hero, that's exactly what he wanted to be. Guess joining the guild will help him achieved that goal. So young and handsome, the female pirate really like that. Though she was only doing this until she can get her revenge. She hasn't thought what to do after that. She will have time to think about it eventually.
It wasn't long until the citizens noticed the visitors. All eyes were on them, they could quickly tell they weren't from here. Noticing their attires and weapons. Jaune tried not to get embarrassed. Usually, he wouldn't. But when he has two members that were wearing bikini armor it was enough to get attention on everyone. Specially the males. At least Sorceress attire wasn't that revealing asides, that it was showing her glorious cleavage to the world. The dress also shows her curves if the witch was wearing a bikini armor of her own the Arc would just lose it. All he needed to do if focus on the quest and ignored his stupid hormones. Ignoring the times his body got the best of him and he will have a "rise" to the occasion. These ladies will be the end of him with their curvy bodies. Elf was covered nicely along with Anna. Except the female pirate was showing cleavage too.
Jaune started asking the villagers where can they find the man in charge. They replied it was the major. They also gave the blond knight directions to his manor. It didn't took the party that long to reached it. It was the biggest house in the town. Very elegant with a great porch and garden. The manor was surrounded by a large green field with a stable. It was like a farm as they were able to see many animals asides from horses. Chickens, pigs, rabbits. The party leader knocked on the front door. A few seconds later a young woman wearing a maid uniform opened the door. The Huntsman told her who they were and she immediately let them in. The mayor has been expecting them. They followed the maid servant through the hallways of the manor. It was quite a sight with all kinds of fancy decorations that looked like they're very expensive. Guess it was obvious for the home of the man who runs the village.
The maid to a big area with many couches and a nice cooper table. She told them to wait here while she gets the mayor. She also offer the party if they wanted to drink something. Amazon immediately said beer or wine. Jaune sweat dropped they were in the middle of a quest. This wasn't the time to be drinking. The Arc told the servant they were okay while the female warrior wasn't happy. So they got seated on a long couch. Elf and Sorceress got seated acting normal, behaving when the man arrives. Amazon got seated still not looking happy, until she saw a fruit basket in the middle of the copper table. She quickly took an apple and banana while the party leader sighed. Anna got seated on a sofa while putting her legs on the table. Seriously they were guests in this nice house, they shouldn't be behaving like this. It's like he was dealing with children.
This couldn't go on, as leader he needed to do something. The Arc stopped Amazon from eating every fruit on the basket and grabbed Anna seating them with the rest of the party. He scolded them to behave that they were quests and that they should behave like proper adults. This only got a laugh from the female pirate while the female warrior was pouting she wanted to eat more. Elf shook his head, while Sorceress sighed. The blond knight just rubbed his forehead. He hoped this doesn't happen whenever they visit a new village. A man arrived just in time wearing a fancy suit colored red wine with black shoes, a brown mustache, with brown hair and dark green eyes. He looks like he was in his early forties. He was more than happy to have the group in his home. At least now they were behaving properly until the next time. Maybe they were too anxious and wanted to go on the quest already.
"Welcome to my humble home" smiled the mayor very courteous.
"Humble, I'd say" Anna muttered gazing at the place.
"We're glad to be here sir" Jaune ignored the pirate woman's comment.
"It's been a while since there's been members of the Adventurer's Guild at this village. We don't usually require their services unless, it's a dire emergency."
"That's why we're here. You filled a quest form regarding some missing women."
"Yes" the man's expression changed" are you sure any of you are not hungry? I can have the servants prepare something."
"That will be great-"
"No. We're fine sir thank you" the Arc cut Amazon off and she pouted again" just tell us more about the missing village girls."
"All right. It happened a few weeks ago. Every night one girl will disappeared without a trace. It was always during the night, they kept vanishing one by one. There are no clues left behind except that the window to their chambers were opened. We searched everywhere in town but no luck so far."
"Magic might be involved in this" Sorceress gave her opinion.
"There's something else in the quest form. All the missing girls are supposedly about to marry?" resumed the blond knight.
"That's right. All of them are fiancees to the men of this village. In fact last night, another one vanished. This time it was Beth, my daughter who is to marry the captain of the guards."
So that was it. Their only connection is that they're committed to marriage. Jaune stood in deep thought. The next thing they should do is to ask around the village and go to the missing girls' home to look for clues. But that will take some time. Time those missing girls probably don't have.
"Any idea what could be the cause of their disappearances?" asked Anna.
"We don't know. However, our priest says he knows the cause. According to him it is the source of dark evil power that is coming from the castle a few miles northeast."
"Is it all right if we find this priest?"
"Of course. Father Evan should be in the church."
"We'll be on our way" the Arc smiled as him and his party got up.
"Please, save them. Save my daughter."
"We will. I promise."
The party left the manor heading for the church. They have already seen it while looking through the village so they knew where it is. They could see the building not that far. It wasn't as big as the mayor's manor. But enough to fit enough people. The saw the priest at the front of the church, a man in his forties, bald with onyx eyes. He was obviously the priest because of his attire. He wasn't alone, as he was talking to someone. This man had long white hair with a pale complexion and dark eyes. He was clad in black armor with a long cape colored red on the inside and black on the outside. His sword was sheathed on his left side. There was something about this individual, Sorceress mentioned he had this mysterious aura of him. No ordinary person that's for sure. The rc has never seen him before so he couldn't be a member of the guild. But his appearance made it clear that he has experience as a fighter.
The man has quickly turned his attention to the visitors, immediately pausing his conversation with the priest. His eyes were calm but hide a strong fury behind them. Jaune knew this guy must be the real deal in battle. His posture and body language said he had his guard up. Even in a small village like this one he was expecting to draw his sword at any second. Samuel did taught him to never let his guard down even if he wasn't in a place where there are monsters. Adventurers must always be prepare for anything. Any kind of combat and lowering one's guard can be end in one's own downfall. There was a moment where he took a glance at the blond Huntsman. But his eyes traveled to the rest of the party. Immediately went to the conclusion that they weren't from this village. Judging from their weapons and attires. Were they traveling and passing by.
"Hello. I heard from the people that you're members of the guild who accepted our request. I am the priest of this village Father Evan."
"Yeah, I'm Jaune this is my party Sorceress, Elf, Amazon, Beastmaster and Anna" the Arc pointed at each of the ladies in order as he mentioned their names.
"Pleased to meet you all. This situation with the missing girls has been very troubling in our wonderful community. The mayor has grown very concerned over the matter. Even more now that his daughter is one of the recent kidnapped victims."
"I should be on my way" answered the stranger in black armor.
"Wait Belmont. Shouldn't you allow these guild members to accompany you?"
"There is no need. I know what I will be facing."
"What's going on?" asked the blond knight.
"This is Belmot a Vampire Hunter. He came to our village just now since he believes there could be a connection between them and the missing girls."
The Arc blinked at the revelation. Sure he knew about vampires. But, only from comic books. They are supposed to be creatures of the night that feeds on human blood to keep their strength and hunger. They're vulnerable to sunlight, garlic, crucifix, stakes the usual stuff he has read. So said creatures exist in this world. After everything he has seen from his past adventures, it really doesn't shock him.
"We're dealing with vampires then?" said Sorceress.
"I never fought them before. Hope they're strong" followed Amazon.
"Never seen one. But I heard they're dangerous creatures" said Beastmaster.
"That is quite correct. They are never to be underestimated. All vampires have different abilities and powers. The more human blood they drink the stronger they become" explained Belmont.
"So are they really weak against garlic? I kept hearing so many rumors about them. You'll be surprised how news travel fast" said Anna.
"Depends on their level. Weaker, lesser vampires can be affected by it. But others that are stronger have developed an affinity to be immune to it. Stakes and crucifix are far more reliable along with sun light. It is their greatest weakness."
"Okay. So if vampires are behind the kidnapped girls. Do you know where they are."
"The castle northeast of here" replied the priest" the town's guard have done several patrols on the road that leads to it. The place has been abandoned for many years."
"I can sense the presence of vampires in the far distance. To the northeast" replied the vampire hunter.
"If you know where to go, then lead the way" said Jaune.
"I would prefer to go alone. You're only doing this because it's just another job from your guild. I on the other hand, do it for my mission to the brotherhood. We do not seek payment in gold but rather in the blood of the Nosferatu."
"I want to help too" said Elf" I don't care about the gold. Human lives are at stake. If there's something I can do about it, then I won't stand and do nothing."
"All of us feel the same way. Sure, gold is important. But saving those girls is more important than any loot we may find. Getting them back here safe and sound is our priority. You feel the same?" said the party leader.
"My priority is the vampire, nothing else."
"Fine, we'll tag along and while we're at it save the girls."
Belmont only shook his head this was going to be troublesome.
"If you're all heading to the castle then maybe you should take the secret passage. A week ago the guards found a cave a mile away from the village. They said it leads to a series of catacombs beneath the castle."
"That will be our safe bet. Going to the front will be reckless" Belmont nodded.
"I'm certain Mayor Carl has already assigned a guard to take you there."
"Looks like we're going Vampire hunting" said Anna.
"Safe travels and may the Goddesses protect you" Eran bowed as they took off.
As they were about to leave the village, there was a town guard waiting for them. Just as the priest said the mayor have already made the preparations. The party along with Belmot left following the guard. Honestly, Jaune had no idea what to expect of this quest. It was clear they will be fighting a vampire and probably more than one. But who knows what other monsters will be waiting for them at the castle. The blond knight kept his calm remembering Bilbaron. It could be worse that what they faced at the underground fortress. They could be expecting them, and they have already planned an ambush. With Anna as their new member the Arc made some slight changes to the strategy. The battle formation went as followed. Sorceress has been moved to the front with him and Amazon. Beastmaster will be in the middle providing support while Elf and the female pirate will remain in the back for rear support.
Asides from having a sword, the pirate also carries a pistol. And the weapon has quite the firepower to blow anyone's head. So it was better to have in long range. Also if any enemies get close to Elf, she will be there to aid the archer. The Arc hoped this battle formation will be enough. Then again, they were traveling with someone new too. The Huntsman didn't know what the vampire hunter can do. He had a sword with him so he assumed Belmont was a close range fighter. Not like he has never heard of them before. Samuel has mentioned to him the existence of the vampire hunter brotherhood in which they are sent to kill vampires among other types of demons. They don't take payment, fulfilling the mission is all that matters to them. So it was different from a guild. What mattered to Jaune, that bother were on the same side. But it worries him that he wasn't interested in saving the village girls.
Belmont felt uncomfortable. He wasn't expecting to have guild members accompanying him to his mission. The vampire hunter has gotten used to doing things on his own. Not like he needed the help. But maybe he can use this as a chance to see what a guild can do. Judging from a simple glance the six of them seemed to have battle experience especially the blond woman wearing so little. Was such attire acceptable. It was just a bikini showing too much skin. Probably so she can move faster. The witch with big chest also seemed to have some experience along with the Elf and the dark elf. It was strange never thinking of laying eyes on elves. They're supposed to be an isolated species not wanting to leave their home to see the outside world of humans. The pirate also had her fair share of fights and the only male member in the group. He seemed to have a lot of training and some experience to boot.
The vampire hunter will see if they are prepare for the dangers that are yet to come. After walking an hour the guard lead them to the cave, where it's suppose to be the secret passage that will lead them to the catacombs of the castle. They parted ways with the guard as he left to return to the village. Belmont took the lead unsheathing his sword. The party did the same. From here on, their quest will begin. Sorceress lit a flame on her staff to provide light in the dark cavern. A nod from the vampire hunter saying he approved of her choice. There doesn't seemed to be any torches. It will be suicide to travel in the dark specially, if they ran into monsters. As they ventured deeper it was too quiet but they encountered some bats, easy to disposed off. Until there was a small light ahead. Candles as the party and the vampire hunter seemed to have arrived at their destination.
A terrible smell hit them shortly after their arrival. So foul, so horrible it was the smell of death. There were coffins and tombs everywhere. These were the catacombs. Belmont warned them of company along with Elf and Beastmaster. The coffins were destroyed as creatures in purple emerged from them. They looked like they were dead showing their bones and ribs. Jaune knew they were zombies or ghouls, undead type monsters. Just before the party could engage them, they were already slice in half by the vampire hunter. He was so fast to react, the party felt like they weren't needed here. Still Jaune told everyone to keep their guard up, more of them could show up. More ghouls showed and this time, there was quite a lot of them. Jaune, Amazon and Sorceress attacked, while Elf shoot some quick arrows. Another monster arrived looking different it was undead but it was fat and he was puking green liquid. Belmont warned them it was poison.
The group together killed it and that's when it exploded releasing more poison. Along with some large looking maggots, it was gross. No time for breaks as they were welcomed by a group of skeletons and another fat ghoul. Elf and Beastmaster too the large creature out dodging it's poison and maggots. While the others handled the skeletons. The vampire hunter killed three in one blow. The others were done too. Jaune was impressed, Belmont was stronger than he looked. Guess they did the right thing coming along. This will make their quest a whole lot easier. The last of the enemies were dispatched. The area was clear. This was only the catacombs, that means the castle in general must be infested with undead creatures. Looks like the path ahead leads to some stairs. It will take them to the castle. Belmont kept on the lead and none from the party were arguing. They were keeping their guard up.
Before reaching the stair case, the party and the vampire hunter felt a cold feeling. It was surrounding them as they were still holding their weapons. More monsters, they weren't going to let up. It appeared before them, a knight whose face was missing through his helmet and chain mesh. Silver armor with a red cape a large sword stabbing him in the middle of his chest. Around the hilt of the sword there was a piece of paper with some strange writing Jaune couldn't come up with. A language he didn't understood. Lastly he was holding a scroll on his right hand. They stood still as the ghost knight hasn't made a move. It was still unclear if it was hostile. They knew it was undead, a wandering spirit that couldn't return to the other side. For Belmont, it didn't seemed like it was hostile.
"What do we do?" whispered Elf.
"Belmont, ever encountered a wandering ghost before?" asked Jaune.
"Yes, it's not the first time. Sometimes spirits can't crossover to the land of the dead without fulfilling a task. This spirit seems to be the case."
"How do you know it won't attack us?" asked Beastmaster.
"Because if it was an enemy, he would have done it by now."
"What does he want then?" followed Sorceress.
"If I end my own life...they can no longer sacrifice me" whispered the ghost.
"Did you hear that?" Elf was shocked, it came from the knight spirit.
"Spirits will mutter their last words before death embraces them. Or it can be their final moments, what they must accomplish but they couldn't in the end. I am unsure what could this one would want."
"Any clue what he wants? Bloody thing is starting to creep me out" replied Anna.
"Maybe we have to make the first move. We know it's just standing there without moving. I'll try to approach it" Jaune made his biggest attempt not to get scared.
"That's not a good idea. It might try to possess you" said Amazon.
"Only hostiles spirits will attempt possession. Besides, if the person they are trying to possess has a strong will it will be hard for them to succeed" explained again the vampire hunter.
In other words it won't be easy to take over the Arc's body. The blond knight slowly approached the ghost. The knight has reacted when the party leader was closer. The others still had their weapons readied just in case it tries anything funny. Except for Belmont, he knew this spirit was harmless. The knight spirit reached out to the Huntsman the scroll he's holding, he took it and then he vanished. The blond noticed the scroll was covered in dried blood. He didn't know if it can be readable.
"What just happened?" the female warrior was clueless.
"It seems the spirit has fulfilled his task. To give someone that scroll" said the vampire hunter.
"What does it say?" asked Elf.
"Later. We still have a job to do" the Arc put it in one of his bags.
The six adventurers and vampire hunter climbed the staircase leading to another floor of the catacombs. No tombs or coffins that was a relief, but there were bats and more ghouls. There were too many, along with a group of skeletons. Sorceress told everyone to stay by her side and they obeyed, even Belmont. The witch cast blizzard freezing all of their enemies. It was their chance to strike and finish them off, a little too easy. The vampire hunter was impressed with their display so far. It was sure making his mission a whole lot easy. There was a chest at the end with another set of stairs leading up. Not before taking out more annoying bats. Amazon did her job as she broke the lock. The vampire hunter wasn't even interested of the contents. The party gathered as they split the loot between them. Anna grinned missing the sight of gold whenever you opened a chest. Such nostalgic feeling.
"Time is on the essence. You're wasting it with meaningless things."
"Says you mate. This is one of the delights of being an adventurer or pirate. The sight of loot always brings a smile to my face" said Anna.
"All right, we're done" Jaune approached the vampire hunter" Belmont, there's something I've been meaning to ask you."
"I'm certain it can wait, once we've done our job" he was about to climb the staircase.
"Why do you fight?"
The man stopped turning to the blond" a simple question that can be answered at a later time. Wouldn't you say?"
"Answer it right now."
The man gave a sigh losing his patience" it is the mission of the brotherhood to eliminate the creatures of the night. Demons are a threat to this world and it's up to us to cleanse them."
"Does saving people's lives part of the mission?"
"Of course. If there are people in danger we save them while there's still time to do so. Human lives are precious and must be preserve at all cost."
"Okay, then why aren't you interested in saving the missing village girls?" the Arc finally brought his point.
"…...…...…..."
"Belmont?" he noticed his long silence and expression was serious.
"I wasn't trying to evade the topic on purpose. But you should know by now. It is too late."
"What?" he gasped a little while his party stood worried.
"The kidnappings have been going on for over a week. Every day one will go missing. Vampires never wait when it comes to satisfy their hunger for human blood."
"Then…." Sorceress paused realizing the truth.
"It is too late to save them. By now, they all must have been turned to vampires."
"All of them?" the Arc stood shocked.
"Most likely. It will be a miracle if we manage to find one that hasn't been bitten. I'm sorry. That is why I am not concern with saving human lives on this mission, when they have already lost their humanity."
"Isn't there a way to turn them back to human? I mean, like killing the one that made them."
"That is a flawed theory, you ain't the only one who has thought of it. Once you turned into a vampire there's no going back. You get bitten by one, it is over."
The party stood silent at his words. That's why he wasn't bothered to save people if it was already too late to do anything about it. Jaune glared as he tightened his fists, he refused to believe it was true. All those girls, all those lives are gone. And the mayor's daughter too. His party were all worried by his reaction to the truth. It didn't stopped him from doing what was right. What they needed to do now. Stop the vampire before more girls are kidnapped and turned into blood sucking creatures. The Arc turned to Belmont giving a nod, that he was ready to continue as they all took the staircase.
After climbing the stairs they were in a half dark hallway. They were finally in the castle. Belmont and the two elves sensed danger as soon as they got here. Many ghosts appeared. These ones were different from the knight. They were hostile spirits as the vampire hunter told the party that is effective against them and fire will drive them away. Sorceress immediately cast fire from her staff driving them away. Elf aided the witch using salamander oil with her fire arrows. There was a door and the group were ambushed by a group of skeletons. Jaune, Amazon, Sorceress and Belmont handle them without a problem. The buffed woman broke down the door only to see a young girl in a white dress with dark blond hair and hazel eyes tied up from her arms and legs. This shocked the party as the vampire hunter went to her and immediately checked her neck for any bite marks.
"She's clean" he said in a surprised tone.
"Then she's safe" Jaune sighed in relief" are you all right?"
"Yes, who are you?"
"We're with the Adventurer's Guild sent by the mayor of your village."
"Thank goodness, I'm so scared."
"What's your name?" asked Sorceress.
"I'm Rachel."
"Are there more of you?" followed Elf.
"I don't know. I don't even remember leaving the village in the first place. I just woke up here all tied up."
The Arc quickly cut the ropes helping her on her feet. The young girl seemed to be so glad to finally be free. Meanwhile Belmont was in deep thought. The girl hasn't been bitten that was very strange and he didn't like it. The not remembering part was understandable. One of the vampires abilities if hypnotizing. That's how the creature was able to take the girls with little effort.
"If there are more of them. Then we should hurry" said Beastmaster.
"I thought you said it was too late to save any of them?" asked Anna.
"Yes, I did" the vampire hunter was still in thought.
"Stay close to us no matter what. We'll get you to safety" the blond Huntsman told Rachel as she nodded.
Leaving the room going ahead there was another door with some familiar holes on the ground. Jaune warned everyone of possible spike traps, so they watched their step. The Amazonia broke down the other door as she dodged an incoming trap from above. An iron spike chained to the roof. If she hadn't avoided it, she would have been crushed and bleed to death. There was another village girl with light brown hair with the same white dress with dark eyes. Must be their pajamas obviously because they disappeared during the night. The girl's name is Charlotte and she said the same thing as Rachel. She woke up in this place tied up. Jaune cut her off after Belmont checked her neck and she was also clean. Vampires will always bite the neck because it's the part of the body where the blood flows the most. That was two village girls, the party focused in protecting them from harm.
Venturing further into the castle, it didn't got easy. Enemy activity increased greatly. It was expected because they have two civilians with them. They thought it was their chance to attack the girls making them simple targets. They were so wrong, as they were slain by the party. They made sure they won't get close to them. Belmont thought as much and it made him think even more this was all a set up. It was also a sign that they were getting closer to the vampire. The group were facing bats, more skeletons and giant spiders as the hallways were filled with their web. Another door, another one that was taken down by Amazon but the room was empty. Leaving them to resume their journey into the dark castle. More spiders got in their way as there was another door in the hallway. The buffed woman broke it down after they were done with the spiders. Belmont sensed an evil presence as he warned everyone to keep their guard up.
Whatever is behind the destroyed door, it was dangerous. The vampire hunt's eyes narrowed as he spotted his target. She had long black hair reaching to her rear with dark eyes darker than darkness itself. Wearing a long white and gray dress. The white portion was the upper showing cleavage and the skirt was the gray one. Her arms were black with sharp claws that could tear human flesh and her legs were black. It was hard to tell if she was wearing long boots that reached to her knees. Jaune felt a shiver down his spine gazing at her. Whatever she was, she wasn't human. Next to her stood another village girl with long black hair and green eyes, wearing the same white silk pajamas. The vampire only smirks at them before she jumped and her arms changed to bat wings flying out the room through a large crack on the wall. The Arc went to the girl who was trembling in fear.
"You all right?"
The girl only nodded as Belmont checked her neck like the others. She was also clean. This confirms his suspicions.
"Beth! You're okay!" Rachel ran to the black haired girl hugging her.
"Rachel, Charlotte. You're all fine...I was so scared."
"Beth? You're the mayor's daughter?" said Sorceress.
"Yes, was it my father who sent you?"
"He did. We're here to take get you out of here and back to the village."
"It won't be easy" spoke the vampire hunter" I found it hard to believe the vampire wouldn't have bitten these girls yet. Because it's a trap. She's using them as bait to lure us into her turf. She might attempt to bite them while we engage her in combat."
"Does that mean she knew we were here from the start?" asked Elf.
"She knew the moment we set foot into the catacombs. Expect the worse when we face her."
"That's sure reassuring, makes me feel much better" Anna was obviously being sarcastic.
"That thing could be waiting for us ahead" the blond knight nodded" listen up. Elf, Anna, Beastmaster I'm counting on you guys to protect the girls. I doubt that vampire is going to let us leave now that we made it this far. So we have no choice but fight her with them accompanying us."
"Leave it to us" the elven archer nodded.
"Agreed. Sending them on their own it's too careless. There might still be monsters around the castle. We have to keep an eye on them until we have taken care of the vampire" said Belmont.
"If everyone's ready, let's get going."
The group left the room heading into an entrance. Elf, Beastmaster and Anna stood closer to the village girls to assure protection. Jaune, Amazon, Sorceress and Belmont were on the front ready to face anything. They have reached a new area. A destroyed chamber with a terrace. Could this be the throne room in the old days of the castle. The vampire hunter immediately felt the evil presence of the night creature as he warned the guild members. The female vampire appeared high above them, the smirk never leaving her features. The three village girl gasped in fear at the creature. Looks like this was the end of the line. They will fight her here. The dark elf cast support on everyone increasing defense and strength, while Amazon drank a strong draught to boost her strength further. She was more than ready.
"I wasn't expecting a vampire hunter to come. I'm surprised the rest of you managed to get this far."
"It ends here demon. I will put you to rest" said Belmont.
In return the vampire laughed mocking him" more food to fest on. I always wanted to drink the blood of an elf and dark elf."
"Think again" said the hooded archer.
"Easier said that done wretched monster" Beastmaster readied her spear.
"Get them my children! Drink to your heart's content!"
"Be cautious! There's more than one!" warned Belmont.
The party was suddenly surrounded by so many vampires. The very same one.
"Are they illusions?" asked Anna.
"No. They're real, though they might not be as strong as the original" said the vampire hunter.
"They're still not to be underestimated!" said Jaune.
They made the first move, obviously going after the village girls. As they got shot by fire arrows courtesy of Elf. Gun shots being provided by Anna's pistol and getting sliced in half by Beastmaster's spear. Jaune smiled at the three, they can handle themselves just fine. And their teamwork was solid. Even when the female pirate was a new addition to the party. More vampire copies appeared as Sorceress cast the spell rock crusher, getting squashed by the large boulder. Belmont sliced off through three at the same time with his blade. Amazon killed another, the Arc did but more were emerging. It was clear the true leader vampire wasn't getting herself involved. Letting her minions do all the work. That wasn't, the vampire hunter revealed the truth of the copies to the group. A truth, not to be taken lightly. He wasn't intending off keeping it to himself, but he believes they deserve to know.
The head vampire if it feels like it. Can offer it's own blood and share it with their children. The effect will changed that into an exact copy of the one in charge. Hearing this Jaune was shocked as the realization hit him hard. The current copies they were fighting and killing, they used to be the village girls that got kidnapped. That it was too late to save. This made the blond Huntsman glared. It gave him the better reason to protect the survivors even more. Giving the other to his three members to give it their all and not let a single one get close to the girls. Beth, Rachel and Charlotte were all scared as they were sticking together. Surrounded by the members of the guild that were risking their lives for them. More copies arrived and this one seems to be stronger as they were releasing a barrage of bats filled with magic. Sorceress countered with Thunder Head and Belmont with a lightning bolt from his sword.
The Arc was surprised, so vampire hunters can cast magic too. The stronger copies were getting struck down by the lightning emerging from the black cloud moving around. She followed with blizzard to freeze them in the cold storm. Giving Jaune, Belmonth and the others the chance to strike them hard. Smashing their frozen figures to pieces. Other copies started casting magic, shooting icicles and fire balls. The busty witch countered with protection. While Elf, Anna and Beastmaster were killing more of the copies surrounding the three young girls. The Arc used his shield blocking any magic attacks while the vampire hunter was countering with his own magic. Those that were getting hurt took their time to drink a heal potion while others would covered them. Elf gave a couple of potions to the three girls in case they get hurt. Just in case things take a turn for the worse.
Through a tough battle more copies were falling. Until they stopped appearing. The party stood their ground. Belmont's eyes narrowed that was all of them. Leaving only one left. Jaune wasn't happy that they just killed all the kidnapped village girls. But they were vampires they had every intention of hurting them and bite the girls they are currently protecting. The lead female vampire finally appeared above them not looking happy. To think her ambush has been a failure. She has underestimated the vampire hunter. And this group of warriors. The way they fight, they must be from a guild. It should be expected how they were able to get this far, clearing off the monsters in the castle. The demon wasn't happy, they were stronger than she thought. It was up to her now to make sure they don't leave this castle alive. It really make things even better as she grinned.
"It's over demon. Surrender now" said Belmont.
"I'm just getting started vampire hunter."
"You will pay!" Jaune glared at the creature" all those vampires we killed, they were all the village girls you took!"
The rest of the party glared while Beth, Rachel and Charlotte gasped in shock. Those vampires were their friends and relatives.
"They were my children. They weren't strong enough because they didn't drank enough blood. It's one of the reasons I kept these three alive. Asides bait, they were suppose to be snacks for them."
"Your plan failed miserably" the Arc glared.
"Did it?" she grinned again.
The vampire laughed maniacally releasing a swarm of bats that surrounded the entire group. They realized, they couldn't moved. There was something below them. On the ground stood a red circle with many symbols. The night creature stopped her laughing grinning at the humans.
"What's happening?!" said Jaune.
"What gives?! I can't move!" said Amazon.
"Neither can I!" followed Elf.
"None of us can't move!" said Beastmaster.
"What the bloody hell is this?!" replied Anna.
"We can't move either!" said Beth while Rachel and Charlotte were struggling to move too.
"This is…." Sorceress paused.
"A blood glyph" answered Belmont angry that he felt for it.
"Blood glyph?" asked the Arc.
"It's vampire magic used by their own blood" said the witch.
"Correct. It's a powerful spell high ranking vampires can cast, anyone that gets caught in it will immediately be paralyzed. As long as it stands, we're helpless…." said the vampire hunter.
"And defenseless!" added the elven archer.
"However, using a blood glyph comes at a great risk."
"That is true vampire hunter. The blood glyph requires a lot of the blood of the caster. Lucky for me I have drank enough to keep my strength up as well as the glyph. The more blood I have, the stronger it becomes. And I will have plenty of it soon...Once I drank ALL of your blood!"
"She's planning to turn all of us into vampires?!" gasped the Huntsman.
"Curses, I should have seen this coming. This vampire had another plan up her sleeve" growled Belmont.
"No way, I'm becoming a bloody blood sucker!" screamed Anna in anger.
"You don't have a choice" the female vampire grinned" I will start with you, young Beth."
"No!" screamed the village girl.
"I've been wanting to taste that young strong blood of yours for a while" she got closer to her unleashing her fangs and her eyes were glowing red.
"Stop! Get away!"
"No…." Jaune was so angry and frustrated" she will bite the girls and then we'll be next."
"Come to me my dear, oh that's right, you can't" the vampire chuckled grabbing her neck as the mayor's daughter screaming in fear.
"It can't end like this. Not after coming so far. Me, my party...I won't even fulfill my task from the Goddesses I will failed again. How can I consider myself a hero if I'm useless to do anything?!"
"NO! NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!" Beth was in tears as the fangs were closely reaching her neck.
"STOOOPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPP!" shouted the blond knight.
A bright golden light emerged from the Arc as it hit the vampire in her face.
"AAAAGGGHHHHHHH! MY EYES! WHAT HAVE YOU DONE TO MY EYES?!" her eyes were completely burned leaving her blind.
The blood glyph has suddenly vanished since it took all the blood the vampire setting everyone free. Belmont didn't hesitated as he stabbed the demon in the heart, she gushed so much blood.
"It ends here…."
"Are you sure?" she smile even if she was gushing so much blood from her mouth.
"….."
"I will return, and I will be taking more girls to become my children."
The vampire hunter finished her as he removed his sword and sliced her head off. The head and the body hit the ground as she has turned to dust being blown away by the small breeze. Belmon sighed as he cleaned his blade from the blood. Turning to the blond party leader. Just what was that light just now. Whatever it was, it saved them. It burned off the eyes of the vampire in the process. Meanwhile Rachel and Charlotte were trying to comfort Beth, who was still in shocked. As for Jaune, he was shocked while his party were checking up on him. The blond sheathed Crocea Mors while staring at his hands.
"What was that just now? Did I do that?"
"Jaune?" Elf started worried.
"I'm okay. None of you got bitten. That's what matters."
"If everyone's all right. We should make haste and return to the village" said Belmont.
The villagers were standing in the gates of the village. They've been waiting for a while for the return of the guild members as well as the vampire hunter. They have been very positive thinking they will be enough to get the girls back. Among them were the mayor wanting to see his daughter safe and sound. If they pulled this through he will make sure they will be well rewards for their hard work. The priest was the only one not present since he was doing his usual prayers at the church. Soon, they saw people in the distance. They immediately cheered recognizing the members of the Adventurer's Guild with Belmont the Vampire Hunter. They were being accompanied by three familiar faces. Carl went to tears when he spotted his daughter as well as the parents of Rachel and Charlotte. They have gone ahead running to them before they hug the girls sobbing.
Jaune and his party smiled but not everything were good news. They needed to tell the rest of the village, the fate of the other girls. They let the girls have their heartwarming reunion with their families as they were approaching the villagers. It wasn't going to be easy but Belmont beat the Arc to it. He volunteered to tell them everything muttering to the blond that it wasn't his place or burden to say. So he told them truth what became the rest of the girls. They have all been turned into vampires and they were left with no choice but to killed them since they lost their humanity. There were a lot of mourning and tears shed. The vampire hunter left, leaving them with the space they deserved. Jaune decided to follow him, calling for his party to join him. It was strange to see him heading to the church all of the sudden. Opening the doors the saw him heading further into the chapel, opening the door.
"Belmont?!" the blond knight and his party were able to catch up to him" where you going?"
"To finish the mission."
"I thought we we're done."
"I'm afraid not. Vampires were once humans however, the one that cast that blood glyph wasn't. It was a pure demon explaining why it was stronger than the others. The only way a pure blood vampire got here is through summoning. Someone summoned it from the demon realm and I have a pretty good idea who."
The Arc stood in thought before his eyes widened. They were climbing down a stairs that will lead underground of the church. That would mean, no it couldn't be. Sorceress already understood what the vampire hunter was talking about. Though it was hard to believe a devoted follower of the Goddesses would be responsible. Belmont's eyes narrowed, he was able to feel the dark power coming from ahead. Behind a pair of double doors. He kicked the door scaring the priest as he was seemed to be in the middle of prayer. The group saw at what he was praying. Definitely not a statue or anything that would symbol one of the Goddesses. It was a black onyx statue of a gargoyle sitting on a pentagram, colored black as well. The witch was able to feel the dark power emitting from it. So the vampire hunter's intuition were correct after all. It was the worse case scenario.
"What is going on?" asked the blond Huntsman.
"Y-You shouldn't be here!" said the alarmed Father Evan.
"I felt the evil magic since I first arrived to the village. An irony that it was coming from the church" said the vampire hunter.
"What is that thing?" Elf was looking at the black onyx statue.
"A cursed seal" replied Sorceress.
"A dark artefact used to summon demons."
"Summon demons….?" Jaune was at loss for words" so he's…."
"Looks like the culprit has been caught red handed. Guess not all priests are saints as they're supposed to be" said Anna.
"Human scum. So much for being a devoted follower of the faith" Beastmaster glared at the priest.
"You were the one that summoned the vampire!" said the elven archer.
"I don't believe it" the Arc was still shocked.
"Don't you have anything to say for yourself, Father?" asked the vampire hunter.
"I had to do it, I had to! You don't understand I have to see her. To have her arms embrace me, her sweet voice whispering in my ear, the warmth of her body."
"With the cursed seal, he'll be able to bring back the vampire from the demon realm" said the busty witch.
"You actually like the vampire?!" the blond knight couldn't be any more shocked.
"This guy is behind the missing girls then?" asked Amazon.
"You're as guilty for their deaths as much as the vampire. Have you no shame?" said Belmont.
"You won't stop me, please...I need to see her again. I know I have sinned greatly. But it doesn't matter if she returns to me!"
"At the cost of how many innocent lives?!" glared the Huntsman.
"Belmont, I don't understand. If you knew the curse seal was here all along. Why didn't you come here before leaving for the castle?" asked the dark elf.
"Because the door to this room had a powerful magic barrier to protect the artefact created by the vampire. The only way to dispell it is by killing her. Now that she's gone the barrier has been lifted, we have to destroy the curse seal. Otherwise, the vampire will return in a few days."
"No don't!" shouted the desperate priest.
Belmont didn't replied as he cast a lightning spell destroying the dark statue to pieces. Evan screamed in agony before he got punched unconscious by Amazon. Everyone was staring at her.
"What? He's a bad guy, doesn't matter if he's a priest."
"We're taking him to the mayor so he can be judge for his crimes" said Jaune.
After leaving the church with the priest tied up. They took him straight to the mayor's house. Belmont told him everything regarding the vampire, the missing girls and Father Evan being the one to summoned the creature using a curse seal artefact. Carl was so shocked that the priest of his own village will be responsible for such horrible crime. But he agreed to have him locked up and prepare a fair trial to decide his fate. The man was very grateful for their help in saving his daughter as well as the other two. Hopefully there won't be any more incidents like this in the future. The mayor wanted to reward the party and the vampire hunter for all of their help, with a large a mount of gold. But both groups have declined. Jaune and his party have already gotten their hands on some loot back at the castle. There was no need for more money. None of his members were greedy they were satisfied with what they got.
They left the village as the sun rose up. They have spent an entire day on their quest. Just when they were far away from the village. Belmont has turned to the group.
"This is where we part ways."
"Where will you go now?" asked Jaune.
"West. Waiting further instructions for my next mission. I suppose you'll be returning to the capital."
"Yeah, we need to return to the guild and make our report of the quest."
"Jaune, Sorceress, Amazon, Elf, Beastmaster and Anna. It was an honor meeting you all. Thank you for aiding me on my mission. It would seem I was wrong of you. You're all quite strong for members of a guild."
"We're intending in becoming the strongest party in the guild" said the proud Amazonian.
"I don't remember having that goal" the Arc sweat dropped.
"We do now, it seems" followed the dark elf.
"I'm all in. My first mission with you people and it turned out to be quite the wild ride. Almost die" said the female pirate with some humor.
"Twice" she hide the emotion in her eyes.
"Before I leave, I would like to give you something. Considerate it a gift for your assistance."
The Vampire Hunter has taken something from his pouch on his belt. A white jewel, resembling a diamond but it was a little bigger than the actual thing.
"I thought we'd agreed in not accepting any more kind of loot."
"Jaune wait" Sorceress stood shocked gazing at the jewel" that's...A magic disruptor."
"It is?" the blond stood shocked.
"It might come useful to one of your future missions" said Belmont.
"It will. We've been trying to find one for a while" the Huntsman accepted the gift" thanks Belmont."
"I hope our paths cross again. I'll be off, safe travels" the vampire hunter took another path leaving the party.
"There he goes."
"I thought he was an ass at first. But he turned out to be an okay guy. Now if he would smile more often. He's like Roland who probably doesn't know the meaning of the word" said Anna.
"Come on, everyone. We have a long path before reaching the capital" smiled the Arc happy that they finally have what they need.
"Now we can finally break the spell the Prime Minister has over the Princess."
"Jaune, are you going to open the scroll you got from that ghost?" said Elf.
Blue eyes widened, he has forgot with everything that has happened. The Arc took the scroll from one of his pouches, it did had blood all over it. As he opened it he was able to read some of the contents before he was more shocked. His party stared at him curious to know what it was about. It's not every day you received a scroll from a spirit.
"Everyone, we have to get to the capital now!"
To be continued
-The vampire hunter Belmont yep a reference to Castlevania. But he's none of the characters from the franchise. Though he has a slight resemblance to Alucard. His VA is Patrick Seitz in his Frederic Chopin's voice from the game Eternal Sonata.
-We have finally gotten a glimpse at Jaune's semblance there will be more in the future.
-I have made a new poll on my profile page for future Jaune crossovers but it is not 100% accurate that I will be writing them. It's just a general idea to see what the readers want. I might happen or not. So vote now.
-Replying to reviews:
*Saint Saber Fang- I do have a RWBY/SAO Alicination crossover on my future Jaune stories on the poll. If you want to see it vote.
*Abyss Trinity- thanks a lot.
*TheEmeraldMage- always thankful for the constant support.
*Chima Tigon- I don't think Jaune will be returning to Remnant since he died.
*Guest- para my Jaune es un personaje con mucho potencial que esta siendo desperdiciado en la serie de RWBY. Creo que el puede ser in personaje fuerte y agil mejor que en la serie. En mi opinion el es mejor que Naruto que convirtio demasiado OP y su personaje fue una tragedia despues del final del manga. Y desgraciadamente my inspiracion para escribir fics de Naruto se fue para siempre.
*calderoneric758- I'm still deciding who will be the lucky girl to get into Jaune's pants first. But chances are high it might be Elf since she's the second chosen hero and the first girl he met.
*An25- I guess Jaune has become strong enough not to rely much on aura. Also when he unlocks his semblance you can bet he will be using it more often. The Jaune in the Nier Automata world is already on my crossover poll on my profile page vote now.
*Wagner- I think he will handle it well when he finds out he needs the talisman in order to defeat the ancient dragon.
*Gabriel443- los lemons se van a tardar.
-As always thank you very much for the favs, follows and reviews I really appreciate it.
Next time: Overthrown