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 12 Overthrown
(Location: Royal Capital City Kingdom of Hydeland)
The journey from the village back to the capital was a long one. The party spent hours until it got dark. Honestly, Jaune didn't wanted to camp for the night. After reading the bloody scroll from that ghost, he was in a hurry. He needed to get to the guild and speak with Samuel immediately. It was very urgent the contents of the scroll. The blond knight hasn't told his party yet. He wanted them to know at the same time as the Guild Master does. They couldn't waste any more time. Once the first rays of the sun emerged the Arc woke everyone up, to resume their journey back. Some weren't happy with being waken up so early in the morning. Anna and Amazon were among that group since they like getting plenty of rest after fulfilling another quest. Eventually the ladies in his group got curious wanting to know what was on the scroll. The leader replied he will tell them when they get to the guild.
When they arrived, Jaune just went straight to the guild building. The hall was empty, a rare sight to see. Usually there will be a few members playing cards as part of their time off, or drinking. Most importantly there was no sign of Samuel anywhere. Most likely he was on his office. The Arc told his party to follow him to the Guild Master's office. If he wasn't there then, he will be at the Canaan Temple will be his next guess. But seriously he couldn't waste more time, the contents of the scroll were very urgent and he needed to know. At first the Huntsman thought he was reading wrong, but he went for the worse case scenario. That it was true explaining an important detail. Jaune knocked on the door, there was no answer. He knocked again getting desperate again, no answer. The blond opened the door, the office empty. The Arc sighed in annoyance looks like they will have to go to the temple to seek him out.
"Jaune?"
The party immediately looked behind to see the man clad in armor. The Arc was more than relief to see him here.
"Sorry for barging into your office like this, all of us."
"It's all right, it doesn't bother me" the Guild Master closed the door seeing his expression" what's wrong? You seem troubled."
"You have no idea" the blond knight handed him the bloody scroll" read it."
The man opened the scroll and started reading. His eyes widened gazing at the blond and his party. Before resuming to read it. The rest of the group were all dying to know the contents already. Specially Anna, she wasn't the most patient woman in the bunch. Amazon was more looking forward to have some mead from the Dragon's Haven Inn. Elf, Sorceress and Beastmaster but were patient enough until it is revealed. The reason why they needed to return to the capital at such haste. Samuel finally finished reading the scroll as he stood in deep thought. The man stood silent for a few minutes, gazing at the scroll then back at his pupil. This has to be the worst piece of news he has ever heard. He wasn't taking it well, how the people were going to take it, the princess, the council, the Prime Minister, the whole castle. The capital is going to go on an uproar.
"Where did you get this scroll?"
"Would you believe me if I tell you a ghost gave it to me?"
The Guild Master raised an eyebrow.
"We all saw it" said Elf.
"It was hard to believe but it's true" followed Amazon.
"We met this spirit during the quest of the missing girls. They were kidnapped and taken to an abandoned castle where it was filled with monsters and ruled by a vampire" said Sorceress.
"There were also more spirits in the castle, but there were hostiles and different looking" said the dark elf.
"I'll give my full report later. Right now, this is what counts the most" said the Arc.
"What did this spirit looked like?"
"He was wearing armor and he had a sword pierced to his chest and a red cape."
"It was a knight. But there was something different about it" replied Beastmaster.
"Can you tell us already what the bloody scroll says?!" Anna finally reached her limit.
Jaune sighed at the female pirate's outburst. Though he was keeping his party in the dark for too long. He did brought them here so they can know. Because he trusts them and they deserve to know first.
"According to the content. The scroll is from his Highness, the King. It is a letter directed to the princess. It is a report telling her he has found the Dragon's Crown."
The party stood in thought. They have heard the rumors and legends of the Dragon's Crown. It's supposed a crown that anyone that wears it, allows them to control dragons. It sounded cheesy but it was only a legend. Yet Jaune wasn't going to deny it. He has learned in this world, just like Remnant all legends could be true.
"I didn't believe it when I read it. Is it true?" asked the Huntsman.
"If it's the real thing? I'm afraid it is. It has the royal seal of the Kingdom of Hydeland. Very hard to falsificate and his Highness' signature."
"Damn it" cursed the blond.
"What does the rest of the letter says?" asked the witch.
"That is all. The troubling part is that his Highness has passed away."
"No…." Jaune gasped as he stood shocked" then the ghost…."
"It was the King" finished Elf.
"The ghost was the King?" followed Anna.
"This explains why he's been missing for so long" replied the busty witch.
"Really bad news" the blond knight shook his head.
"The revelation will affect the entire kingdom. The right thing to do will be to report it to the castle."
"I'm not doing that" his party and the Guild Master stared at him in shock" I know it's a priority, that they're supposed to be the first ones to know. But it won't be beneficiary."
"Jaune, you must deliver that letter. I don't like it any better than you. But as citizens of the kingdom we have a duty to obey the rules stated by the high authority."
"Exactly. If Gustaf finds out the King is dead it's over. His plans will be achieved. He might get the alliance with Bolga, The Archduke might marry the princess making him the new king. It will go according to his plans. This letter is exactly what he's been hoping for."
"We can still stop the Prime Minister" Sorceress smiled taking the gift given by Belmont the Vampire Hunter" we have the magic disruptor now."
The Arc gave a nod they finally have a chance to break Gustaf's spell over Vivian.
"What are you planning to do?" asked the Guild Master.
"I will tell Dean. He's the king's brother, he has to know first above everyone else in the castle."
"True. But the letter was written for the princess. So it should be her the first person to read it." said the man clad in armor.
"We can't count on her knowing, not yet. I would go straight to the castle to talk to Dean but...He warned me to stay away from it to prevent any suspicions than I'm his ally."
"I hate for my guild to get involved in the kingdom's political affairs. Specially if they are corrupted ones" Samuel got upset.
"Then how are you planning to talk to the Count?" asked Beastmaster.
"I'll do it" said the Guild Master" I'll write a letter to Count Dean telling him to meet me at Canaan Temple. Hopefully, Gustaf won't suspect anything."
"Thanks Samuel" Jaune smiled" all right everyone, we're off to the temple."
"Before you head out. Be careful" said the man in armor" there has been a very strange individual lurking in the backstreet of the temple. Just to let you know. Don't get too close to him."
The Arc nodded not having a clue what could this individual be.
Minutes later the party were at the Temple. The priest is always glad to have guests. They were currently at the church in one of the benches that face that three destroyed statues of the Goddesses. When they were on the front they saw no one. But Samuel did said this strange individual was in the back of the building. Jaune has already come up with a plan to save the princess from Gustaf's control. It all depended on Dean's opinion and after reading the letter of his older brother. The man wasn't going to take the news well. Though the Arc didn't knew the Count well deep down he cares for his family. Seeing his concern for the princess. It should be the same for the king. Also he won't be happy that the Prime Minister will be close to fulfilling his ambition. Having the Kingdom of Bolga by his side. Footsteps were head as Elf and Beastmaster were first to know of his arrival.
Count Dean walked the empty hallways of the church. Expecting to see Jaune only to see that he wasn't alone. His party were present, this didn't pleased him. It's supposed to be him and the blond guild member. The less people present the better. Still he got seated in a bench in front of him, while he and his party stood behind.
"I was assuming the Guild Master would be the one to be here."
"He did me a favor to make you come here without me going to the castle."
"Clever move. Still, I don't like the presence of your party. This is suppose to be a secret meeting."
"My party knows everything. I had no intention of keeping this a secret from them. You don't have to like it."
"You have a sharp tongue. Nevertheless, you have proven to be a valuable asset and ally. Speak what is the purpose of this meeting?"
"Various reasons. But first" the Arc handed him the bloody letter.
The Count raised an eyebrow seeing the dried blood on the paper. He opened it, reading it. Eyes widened, then narrowed in anger. With his free hand he tightened it in a fist.
"I'm sorry."
"Where did you find this letter?"
"The spirit of his Highness gave it to me."
"You expect me to believe such nonsense?" he glared at the blond knight.
"We were there too. We saw the ghost when he handed Jaune the letter" defended Elf.
"You don't have to believe us Count Dean. All you need to know if we're telling the truth the letter itself is proof enough" followed Sorceress.
"It's not fake" replied the Arc.
"Yes...The Royal Seal confirms it. But most of all, the handwriting. I recognize my brother's handwriting and signature anywhere. Curses, I should have known. I should have seen this coming. And for what, so he could get his hands on a treasure that is nothing but a legend. The situation is getting worse by the day."
"Did something happened at the castle" said the party leader.
"The entire week Gustaf has been trying to urge the council to accept a peace treaty with the Kingdom of Bolga. This is the first step in his plan to have Bolga as his ally. Now that it's confirmed my brother is dead his plans are going to come true. Vivian will forever be his pawn in his quest for power."
"That's the other thing I came to talk to you about" Jaune turned to Sorceress who nodded.
"This is a magic disruptor" the witch was holding the white jewel" with this I should be able to dispel the effect of the Prime Minister's ring that is powering the necklace the princess is wearing. Meaning she will be free from the mind control spell."
"Are you certain of this?" the Count stood shocked.
"Yes. But I have to get close to the Prime Minister in order to activate the disruptor. It works within a certain range. The closer I get, the better."
"Can you give us an audience with Gustaf?" asked the blond knight.
"I can. I will tell him you and your party would like to meet up with him. He will agree because he still sees you as an ally. He has no idea that you're with me."
"Just name the day and time and we'll be there."
"Tomorrow at noon. After the council meeting. You do realize if this plan of yours doesn't work, we will all be executed under the charges of treason?"
"I know."
"This better work. Or Vivian will never return to her normal self. You have to give me your word, this plan will succeed."
"I promise" the blond nodded.
"I'll be keeping the letter for the time being. I intend of giving it to Vivian when she regains her true self."
The Count got up and left without a word. Jaune could tell he took the news bad. He just found out his brother was gone and he may lose his nice for good. Not if he does something about it. Shortly Elf, Beastmaster and Amazon left. They wanted to go to Morgan's shop so they can get their equipment fixed. It wasn't broken but they showed signs that they could eventually break. They needed to keep their weapons in top shape for their next quest. Anna left suddenly, the pirate woman didn't said anything to where she was going. The blond Huntsman and Sorceress were left alone. While the Arc was now gazing at the statues of the Goddesses. Where they watching him right now. Were they seeing he was trying to protect this world. Not alone but, with his party. The chosen heroes. That was something he needed to tell them later. He didn't know when. Jaune hated keeping things a secret from them.
"Everything will go well. We'll set the princess free and make Gustaf pay."
"You really think the plan will work?"
"Of course it will. I know it will work. You will make it work."
"You sure are putting a lot of trust in me. This is the first time I'm being put under pressure."
"I'm sorry, I didn't mean it. I know you can do it. You're the expert in magic I've seen what you can do in battle. I believe in you like I believe in all of you."
Sorceress blushed giving a nod and a smile" as long as I can get close to the Prime Minister, everything should be fine. I must perform the chant in order to activate the disruptor."
"Do you need help memorizing it?" he immediately volunteered.
"I already know it. Tomorrow we will save the princess" the witch was feeling embarrassed" I'm going to read some of my books. I need to know more about magic disruptors."
"Okay, don't read too much" he smiled.
She nodded leaving and Jaune never saw her face getting red. Being oblivious was still a part of him. The blond Huntsman decided to check out that strange individual Samuel mentioned. He said he was hanging in the back streets of the temple. The Arc took one of the doors that lead to the back. Leaving the temple, blue eyes widened. There was someone at the end of a gutter covered in a dirty cloak. It looked like an old man with a messed pointy beard, his body was wrinkle. The Guild Master said he was very weird the blond would like to disagree, he was downright creepy. He had to covered his nose because that man was reeking. What was the last time he has taken a bath. A dog suddenly passed him by and peed right next to him. Yet, he didn't reacted as he stood moving his and his body in a slow motion. Just what was wrong with this guy. The Huntsman has seen poor people in the capital but nothing compared to this.
"Poor child" the priest of the temple arrived getting next to the blond knight.
"What's wrong with him?"
"I don't know. He's a strange one. I once tried giving him food but he never touched the plate. I kept serving him, he will ignore it and the dogs of the streets would eat it instead. I also offered him water but he didn't reacted."
"How long he's been here?"
"A few days. I have prayed for the Goddesses to help him. However there is something he does often."
Jaune turned to the large man before he started hearing murmuring. It was coming from dirty creepy old man. He couldn't understand what he was saying. It sounded like gibberish. This guy has truly lost it. He was a wacko, probably someone that escape prison from another village. Maybe he was sick and sickness was serious. What if it was contagious, putting the townsfolk in danger. Maybe after they helped Princess Vivian he can ask Count Dean to have this man checked by the castle doctor.
"That's all he does the entire day. Murmuring the same old thing over and over again. This lost soul is in need of some spiritual guidance."
"Will he even react to one of your lectures Father?"
"If food and water doesn't I doubt a speech of faith will. I bet even if you give him one gold coin it will lead to the same result."
"Or getting peed on" added the Arc as he saw another dog peeing on him, no reaction whatsoever.
"Either way I will continue my generosity offering him food and water."
"Father, can you keep me updated on this? If he starts acting different. I'm worried about him."
"Of course my child. You have a good heart. I will let you know right away if there's any progress."
"Thank you father."
Anna didn't know why she decided to visit the harbor of the capital. Maybe because she missed it. How long has it been since she's been to one. Too long, not since that day. Her days of piracy are golden memories. Stealing from cocky sailors, taking their loot and food. But she will at least leave them some, so they don't die of hunger. The sea can be very treacherous. She found out the hard way. A smile spread her features smelling that lovely scent. The smell of the salty sea and the great breeze that will accompany it. The legendary pirate, the human storm. She was unstoppable, there was no one that could rival her strength. Seeing the sailors preparing their ships with supplies and other cargo, ready to set sail. It made her feel jealous, there was a time she couldn't live without being in the sea. Now, it was a different story. It was shattered with those horrible memories.
Sure they were happy now. But happens when they ran into a storm or something worse. They won't be smiling anymore, that is the cruel reality. All those sailors will either get attacked by some sea creature or raided by pirates. Some will make it to their destination, some will not. Nothing will last forever she used to think, everything will remain the same. Just the way she wants it, how wrong could she ever be. Anger was rising within the pirate woman. Remembering those events. Blue grayish eyes were tearing up. Wondering why it happened to her. Anna came here not for missing being in the sea where she belong. But to remind her of her mistake. This won't end until she sets out to do what she swore. That monster was out there and she was going to kill it. Whatever it takes. As she turned away to leave she bumped into someone. She glared but stopped seeing that it was the blond party leader.
"That's twice you bumped into me."
"Well, you should watch where you're going."
"You said the same thing when we first met" Jaune smiled.
"Remembering happy memories now, mate? I can still act like an ass if you want me to."
"Don't be. You pretend to be mean but, you're really a nice person for a pirate."
"Oh, you did not say that mate. I can be worse than any pirate you will come across. I have my reasons for sticking around you and it's not because I like you or anything. I see you and your party useful to my cause. So, don't get too attached. You will regret it."
"You're still pretending to be a bad person, when you're not. I've seen how you had our backs in the last quest. Not a very pirate thing to do."
"Gotta make sure you guys are in top shape when we take my request. Can't afford any of you to get hurt."
"Even if you act this way I meant what I said. I will help you, whether you act like you don't care. I made a promise to you."
"Still a bloody naive fool. Either I'm lucky to meet a man like you or I have the worse luck in the world. Considering the members of your party, I'm surprise you're still a virgin."
"There you go again bringing that up" the Arc sweat dropped" seriously what's with you and virginity anyway?"
"I never said it was a bad thing mate. But aren't you embarrassed that someone like you still hasn't had the taste of a woman yet? To pierce them with your love pistol and make strong thrusts until you feel the ultimate climax of pleasure."
"If you're going to keep talking about this. I'll be on my way."
"I have never done this before" she stopped him grabbing his hands" if you want to experience the thrill and the pleasure...I don't mind."
The blond knight stood baffled as Anna wrapped her arms around his neck, their face were inches away.
"What do you say, a one time only? We go to one of those private inns. I'll make sure you remember this experience for the rest of your life" she winked.
The Huntsman was doing his best not to blushed like an idiot. The pirate woman was basically throwing herself at him. She was willing to sleep with him. Seeing her expression she didn't seemed to mind. It's like she wanted to, that is a good thing. The whole virginity thing is starting to get old, he didn't minded being one. It's just, now it wasn't the proper time. They had a mission to save the princess and stop Gustaf. They needed to expose the Prime Minister for the treacherous bastard that he is. But Jaune was able to resist temptation as he removed the hands of the pirate. Anna was shocked by his action.
"Maybe I'm too innocent or stupid. But I'm not desperate. You want to but I have a feeling you don't really want to. It's better to wait and find out if you really want to go through with it. My mom used to tell me that love is a precious thing. If your heart had made up its mind that means you're ready. Right now, I don't think you're ready. Until then, I'll keep my virginity. It's not a priority but helping others is. Sorry Anna, I will have to decline."
"Are you brain dead?" she was still shocked" I just offered myself to you and you rejected me. Maybe you got hit in the head in the last quest."
"My head is in the right place. You should do more thinking before asking someone to sleep with you."
"You are a bloody idiot. No, a moron. You have no idea how lucky you are. I have never told a single man I want to sleep with them. None have earned that luxury. You're the first one."
"I'm flattered, really. I'm going to get some training before heading for the inn. Don't forget tomorrow is an important day" the Arc left giving her a friendly wave.
"Bloody hell. He just turned me down. The virgin moron just said no to a freebie. What am I dealing with here?"
The next day the party entered the castle exactly at noon. The guards let them in because they were already told they have an audience with the Prime Minister and the Princess. So far so good, everything was going well. As long as the man didn't suspected anything out of the ordinary. Jaune knew his plan was risky hence, Dean's warning what will happen to them if it fails. But his plan was flawless though, he hated how it was going to be done. Because Sorceress needed to get close as she should to the large man. He told her if she can distract him somehow. The witch already knew what he was thinking using her cleavage to get his attention. The Arc apologized to her but she saw nothing wrong knowing about her big assets. It will work if Gustaf was like any man who would lust over large breasts. But it made the witch smiled mentally how considerate her leader is.
The lone guard lead the party into the throne room telling them the Prime Minister will be arriving shortly. As he left Jaune started growing worried. What if he knows and he's getting ready to ambush them. No, he made sure to stay away from the castle. Samuel has aided him telling Gustaf that the blond was busy with doing quests for the guild. The Guild Master has never mentioned Dean's name in the large man's presence. So it was to assume he didn't know of the blonds' alliance with the Count. If he was unaware and Sorceress breaks the spell, it will be over for him. The princess will awake and they will reveal his true intention to take over throne by siding with the Kingdom of Bolga. If he's caught, he had nowhere to go. Between the guards and his party, he will be done for. Finally the Prime Minister arrived with the princess in her emotionless state. It was now or never as he smiled seeing him and his group.
"Jaune, it's so good to see you again. We haven't spoken for a while."
"I'm sorry Prime Minister. I've been very busy as of late."
"It's all right. Samuel has told me you've been doing plenty of quests. It seems you have made quite a name for yourself. The people of the capital are starting to call you and your party, the heroes of Hydeland."
"I'm sure they could be exaggerating a little" the Arc could see Count Dean in the far corner to the right, watching as expected.
"Well, would you like to join us for lunch? You'll love the food from the royal cooking staff."
"I'm in" Amazon was more than happy.
"Not now" grumbled the Huntsman.
"Actually" spoke Sorceress walking closer to the man" I've been dying to meet you Prime Minister. It is such an honor."
Gustaf has already taken notice of the witch's cleavage. By the Goddesses those things are huge. Has any man taken the honor to fondle those glorious melons, squeeze them, lick them, suck them. He was getting aroused just by staring at them. What a gorgeous and sexy woman. The man controlled himself remembering he wasn't alone. While Sorceress knew he has taken the bait. She was holding the magic disruptor on her left hand. The large man took her right hand and gave it a kiss while the witch hide her disgust from the perverted old man.
"The honor is all mine, my lady."
"That is a very beautiful ring. It seems unique."
"Why yes" he smiled" it's a rare treasure."
Without warning Sorceress started chanting softly as the jewel in her hand was glowing.
"What are you doing?" Gustaf saw her expression and muttering.
It was too late. She finished chanting and the jewel stopped glowing. Before he knew it, the light blue color of his ring faded, leaving a black jewel. He heard, gasping. Eyes widened as the Prime Minister saw that the princes was reacting. The necklace no longer had the color of the magic stones. Checking his ring, it was the same. Gazing at the busty woman he glared seeing that she was smiling.
"What did you do?!"
"Breaking the spell you have over the princess."
"No!" the large man was panicking.
"Vivian!" Dean ran to the young woman" are you back to normal?"
"I..Uncle Dean...What do you mean normal?"
"I'm sorry to say this. But you've been under Gustaf's control for the past weeks. He was controlling you through that necklace by a magic spell."
"What…?" the princess's eyes widened staring at the Prime Minister.
"Do you remember anything?"
"I...I remembered Gustaf wanted to see me in his chambers. He wanted to give me a gift for my succession to the throne. This necklace...When he put it on me, everything went black. That's all I can remember."
"Thank the Goddesses. He's been using you to win over the council's favor in having Bolga as an ally and wed you to the Archduke. So Macneil will become king instead."
"I will never marry the Archduke!" the princess was angry glaring at the large man" Prime Minister, how could you do this to me? I trusted you!"
"Curse you...Curse you all!"
"Looks like this is pretty much game over for you fatty" said Anna.
"It's over Gustaf, all of us know the truth. Once the Archduke becomes king he'll become your puppet so it will be really you pulling his strings, ruling Hydeland from behind the scenes" said Jaune.
"You're all traitors! I will not let this continue any further!"
"Give it up Gustaf. The truth is out. The only traitor here is you" said the Count.
"Guards!" called Vivian as she broke the deactivated necklace throwing it to the ground.
The royal guards arrived to the princess's call.
"Arrest the Prime Minister for treason against the throne and our kingdom. For conspiracy and deceive. I will make sure justice is serve."
The guards have drawn their swords and spears while the large man was shocked.
"You can't do this to me! I'm the Prime Minister I am high authority, I hold great power over this kingdom!"
"Not anymore traitor" said Dean.
"I advice you to come quietly. Don't make me use force" followed the princess.
"We're here too. We'll make sure you have nowhere to run" said the Arc as him and his party readied their weapons.
This was it, Gustaf was really done for. He had nowhere to go. They weren't going to give him the chance to go to the secret passage that leads outside. The same one he showed Tommit to use when he paid him to steal the royal scepter. It couldn't end like this after all the hard work he did to get this far. Even if he currently has the royal orb in his possession it will mean nothing if he doesn't escape.
"Just surrender. At least have some dignity to know when its over" said Dean.
"Never...I will never surrender…I NEED YOUR HELP!"
Suddenly, a new individual appeared from out of nowhere. Everyone gasped at the sight. It was an older man with white mustache and a beard. Wearing a mid-way dark purple cape, with dark purple cloak and boots. A piece of armor in the middle section holding a gold staff of serpents crossing each other at the top. What caught their attention the most that this man was levitating making him a magic user. The magician started casting a spell.
"GET BACK!" shouted Sorceress.
The guards surrounding Gustaf were burned alive. The Prime Minister grinned at the sight he started laughing before turning to Dean.
"I wanted to do this the easy way. But you and your allies left me with no choice. With this" he showed the Count the royal treasure.
"The royal Orb! You stole it!"
"Give that back, it doesn't belong to you!" followed Vivian.
"I can my dear princess. I need this in order to buy the Archduke's trust. And once I have Bolga as an ally we will invade Hydeland. Without a king this kingdom is destine to fall!"
"Not if we have anything to say about it!" said Jaune.
The levitating magician cast a lightning spell but it was met by another lightning spell courtesy of the witch.
"You're strong" said the old magician" using my full potential will turn this whole castle to rubble. Let's go, I will help just this once."
The Prime Minister and the magician vanished.
"Curses!" growled the Count.
"He took the orb" Vivian teared up" it's all my fault.
"You're not to blame. This was all of Gustaf's doing. He planned for this from the very start."
"Who was that guy?" asked the Arc.
"He was a magician but no ordinary one" said the witch in thought" it has to be a Warlock."
"Warlock?"
"It is the elite title a magician receives when he has mastered all types of magic. Warlock for males, Arcana for females."
"What do we do now?" asked Amazon.
"As I things couldn't get any more complicated" said Beastmaster.
"We should go after him" said Elf.
"No. Whoever was that magician he must have taken Gustaf out of the kingdom by now" said Dean.
"Sir!" a guard arrived before gasping seeing the burning corpses.
"What is it?"
"There's word from the harbor. Apparently the Prime Minister's ship has just set sailed!"
"Send a large group of guards and prepare the royal ships. Go after him and don't you dare lose him!"
The knight nodded as he ran off.
"So he's still near?" asked the blond knight.
"Looks like he's not that far off. He must have been transported to his ship."
"If there's anything that we can-" the blond knight was cut off.
"No, you and your party have done enough. You have saved Vivian and for that I am grateful. But now, leave this matter to me. Gustaf won't get away, not without the orb."
"I'm sorry" said the princess in tears" I'm sorry for causing all of you so much trouble. I was too naive. I trusted Gustaf too much, I thought he really wanted what was best for me and Hydeland. I was so wrong…."
"Princess, you were just a victim. None of this is your fault" said Sorceress.
"That human is the only one to blame for planning his evil scheme" said the dark elf.
"Is it true what he said about handling the orb to the Archduke?" said the elven archer.
"I'm afraid so. It seems Macneil doesn't trust Gustaf and in return he will give him the orb. His originally plan was probably to hand him the scepter first. That's why he used Tommit to steal it. Nevertheless, if the Archduke gets his hands on the orb it will earn him some trust in Gustaf. Leading Bolga to have a possible alliance with him. That's not the worse part. He already knows the fate that befell my brother…."
The party was shocked how did the Prime Minister found out.
"I had the letter with me the entire time. He must have found out from an external source. Gustaf must have eyes and ears all over the capital. I underestimated him."
"What letter?" Vivian turned to her uncle.
"….…."
"We've done our part, let's go" Jaune told his party.
They left the throne room heading out of the castle while Dean gave the princess the bloody letter from her father. As the group left the castle they could hear the cries of sorrow and agony from the young woman. First she finds out she was being control by magic by the same person she trusted the most and now she finds out her father is dead. It wasn't the right time and place so the party leader the what was right. Vivian needed some time and space to process everything that has just happened. The Huntsman was hoping they can catch Gustaf before he gets to Bolga. It might take a couple of days to hear any progress so they will have to wait until then. Not to mention they have recently got back from a tough quest. They should get some rest until the next one comes.
The past couple of days have been rather relaxing for Jaune and the rest of his party. Still no confirmation from the guards regarding Gustaf's whereabouts. They had no choice but to take a break. The Arc did his usual stuff, his early morning exercises, his daily training and spending time with his party. Elf volunteered to teach him how to use a bow. The Arc knew this were going to lead to some bad results, he just knew it. The elven girl got him a bow with a quiver of ten arrows. They went to the archery range outside of the guild building to start the training. It amazed him that she was also good at teaching. He knew she is the best when it comes to archery but a great teacher too. The Huntsman listened to all of her lessons, how to properly hold the bow, hot to properly insert the arrow and how to properly. She told him to be one with the arrow, imagine himself going to the bulls eye of the target mark.
And he fired the arrow. It never hit the target, it never came close to hit the target mark. It went flying to the other side of the firing range. Jaune sweat dropped, that was exactly how he'd imagined it was going to go. Elf was still positive as she resumed teaching him. The blond party leader fired a couple of times, the results were a disaster. He continued until his quiver ran out of arrows. Turning to the elven archer she smiled but ended up laughing. Yep, the Arc realized he should never get his hands on a bow. Because he sucks so bad at archery. But he thanked Elf for the attempt of teaching him. When he wasn't firing arrows, the hooded girl was telling him about her training. Jaune was shocked hearing her tale. Basically she was training over thirteen hours shooting arrows at target marks on trees. She basically fired over a thousand arrows each day. His respect for the elven archer grew, she was truly a prodigy.
Another day Jaune went to the outskirts of the capital to have a sparring match with Amazon. The female warrior has been wanting to fight him for a while. Beastmaster was present but she was only sharpening her spear and ruby gem at the end. Honestly the blond knight was nervous. He has seen plenty of times what the Amazonian can do in a fight. It scared him how strong she can become, her berserk status skill and that one skill she used to killed the other Doom Beetle. Incite Rage, that's what she called it. Now good news, she wasn't using her weapon. It will only be their fists and kicks. That was okay for the Arc. Roland and Samuel gave him some hand to hand combat training too. Just in case he loses his weapon during battle. It was important to always be prepare for the enemy. But still, he was very nervous to be fighting the buffed woman while she was pumped, she really wanted this.
The blond Huntsman did his best evading her punches and kicks. Countering with his own but, she was able to blocked them. Just as he thought, she was tougher than he thought. Problem is, that she wasn't holding back. So in return, he couldn't hold back either. The match wasn't just hard but it was so difficult not to keep his eyes away from the warrior. Whenever she will moved, her breasts will jiggle. It was worse when she turned around allowing Jaune to her large round butt. How do you beat someone this strong and with a thick body. It wasn't just her skills that was giving him a hard time but her small attire. Damn bikini armor makes her looks so hot and sexy. This wasn't the time to be thinking with his hormones. He was in the middle of a sparring match. Then the though of having her sit on his face popped up, making him blushed. Quickly he dispelled the thought focusing on his opponent.
As if things couldn't any worse for the blond party leader. Beastmaster was done sharpening her weapon as she joined Amazon in the match. Ending up in a two on one handicap match. Great, just what he needed double trouble. The Arc was quick to avoid their attacks and it wasn't easy getting his attacks to break through. Both warriors were teaming up. Jaune tried not to focus in seeing their breasts jiggle with each movement. Why must this happen to him. This was torture, fighting two hot women wearing bikini armor. Hormones won't get in his way as leader, he needed to prove he can himself when the odds are against him. Good thing the dark elf wasn't as good with her fists than with her spear. Giving the blond knight a small advantage. It was easy to dodged her attacks, hitting her a couple of times. Even bringing her to the ground. Amazon was the only tough opponent that he could have trouble taking down.
The match ended up as a draw and Jaune couldn't believed it was a draw. Still Amazon was happy with the results and Beastmaster. The Huntsman decided to go as the Amazonian and the dark elf decided to have a sparring match of their own. The blond knight has taken a glimpse of their butts. Damn bikini armor, it has to be a punishment from the Goddesses. Another day he visited Lucain at his tower. The magician was still trying to recover his lost memories but he told the blond knight that he was able to find his other rune stones. A blue one, a red one and a yellow one. The Huntsman decided to buy all of them since he had plenty of gold from all of his quests. Rickey wasn't that far still working on his magic. As for Tiki, Lucain told him the fairy left for the Dragon's Haven Inn. That was his next destination, quite a shock he got when he saw the fairy was on a cup of beer and she was obviously drunk.
Jaune decided to let her be for now because he spotted Anna in one of the bar's tables. The female pirate was playing cards with some members of the guild, a dwarf, a man clad in armor and a magic user. The pirate gave a laugh as she won yet again making the three guild members to groaned. So she gained quite the amount of gold. The three members left not feeling happy for their loss. The pirate saw her leader and asked him if he wanted play. The blond wanted to decline but since he like spending time with his party when they weren't doing quests, why not. Anna went easy on him as they went to bet small amounts of gold. Wise move, he had a feeling he was going to lose big time. After four games, he lost just as he thought losing only a hundred gold. The female pirate offered him beer but he declined letting her have her own drinks. After that he took Tiki from the cup back to Lucain. She was super drunk, she could barely react.
Another day the Arc volunteered to help Sorceress carry some new books she has bought. He was surprised that not all of them were about magic. Some were about history and legends. Guess the witch had tastes for other topics. While traveling the streets both the blond and the busty beauty saw Roland and Morgan. They were walking together, holding hands. Sorceress confirmed that the rumors were true of the barbarian dating the owner of the magic shop. The witch wanted to know more but her leader stopped her. The blond rolled his eyes knowing the couple would want some privacy. As Jaune resumed helping the witch carried the books back to the Dragon's Haven Inn. A few caught his attention. "The Origins of Black Magic" and "The Hell Evangelists". They seemed to be interesting to read. Maybe he will ask her if she could lend them later. Sorceress was happy with his help as she blushed.
After five days Samuel has called Jaune and his party to the guild hall. Naturally the blond leader thought the Guild Master would have news on the whereabouts of the Prime Minister. He was aware how important it was to find the man. They needed to retrieve the royal orb before it reaches Bolga. Or they might risk a war with the kingdom. That was in no one's best interest except Gustaf, he didn't care how many lives are lost. He needed to be stopped now. When everyone was present the man clad in armor was pleased that they all made it on time. It was time to discuss the important news and future businesses.
"Now I'm sure you all know why I have you called here" the Guild Master gazed at the group at they already knew" I have recently received a message from Count Dean. He's currently busy working with the council. He delivers good news, his scouts were able to spot Gustaf's ship heading to a pirate route in order to evade captors."
"Not bad. The fat wanker is clever. No one will try to find him in such routes. Except blood thirsty pirates" said Anna.
"That's what Dean believes too. While it's safe to assume the royal orb hasn't reach Bolga. There's a high chance it must have fallen into pirate's hands along with Gustaf's ship. There were rumors going around that his ship is filled with loot."
"Of course the coward won't escape empty handed. I suppose he will also offer the treasure to the Archduke along with the orb" said Beastmaster.
"Still, we have to find him more than ever. If he has been captured by pirates then we must save him and retrieve the orb" said the blond knight.
"We're actually saving that traitor's arse? The pirates should be doing us a favor if they execute him" said the female pirate.
"No, if you find the Prime Minister bring him back alive. He will face justice for his crimes. But the most important thing is to bring back the orb at all cost."
"Any idea where could Gustaf be?" asked the Arc.
"According to Count Dean's scouts. The pirate route Gustaf is located somewhere in Ghost Ship Cove" said the Guild Master.
"Ghost Ship Cove…." Anna's eyes narrowed in anger.
"You know it?" said the party leader.
"You can say that. It's supposed to be a local spot for the hideouts of many dangerous pirates. But it's not a safe place, there are also monsters prowling those grounds."
"Looks like we have our next quest" Amazon smiled she was more than ready.
"Samuel?" said the Huntsman.
"Yes, Jaune. Count Dean asked you and your party to head to Ghost Ship Cove and find Gustaf and the orb. I already spoke with the gatekeeper. The magic gate will take you there."
"Then let's get prepare ourselves before moving out."
"One more thing" Samuel stopped the party" before you leave, there's another reason for calling you. So far throughout your quests you have encountered chests and doors that are regular."
"Regular?" Jaune had no idea what he was talking about.
"You're very lucky you haven't encounter magical chests and doors. The chests will most likely have a trap that it will be triggered the moment you released the lock. Magical doors won't be open with a special key. Brute force won't break them."
"Didn't we encountered a magic door when we were at Wallace's Underground Labyrinth?" said Elf.
"Indeed. When we opened the chest that triggered that trap and those slime creatures appeared. We were lucky to find the magic key" said the dark elf.
"Then it's a miracle you're all standing" Samuel felt relief.
"Well, if there are magical can Sorceress do something about it?" said the Arc.
"My expertise is magic in general not doors and chests" replied the witch.
"That is why I have decided that you should travel from now on with a rouge bandit."
The party didn't know what to say. This was truly a surprise.
"You want a thief to join our group?" the blind knight stood shocked.
"Jaune, you already know there are bandits in my guild. But not all of them are selfish and only care about taking loot for themselves. Bandits are very skilled in removing locks of any kinds. Specially magical ones that have a trap. Many guild members have a rogue bandit traveling with them for those special occasions. However, there are not specialize in combat. So it's up to you to look after them from getting hurt."
"So you want us to babysit a bloody thief?" Anna didn't like it.
"Ironic, this coming from you. A former pirate legend who stole loot that is worth millions of gold. Yes I know all about you Anna Bonnie" Samuel sweat dropped.
That was more than enough to shut the female pirate up.
"Okay, if that's what you want. Where is this bandit?" the Arc came to terms not arguing against the Guild Master's choice.
"Great, she's not here yet" the man in armor muttered" VIRNA! GET IN HERE NOW!"
Someone ran fast arriving at the guild hall. It was a girl looking around Ruby's age, probably younger. With a green cloak with a hood, and a red tunic. With long light brown pants and red boots. She had glasses with dark eyes and shoulder length dark hair. She was holding a huge bag like any other thief would. The girl was panting while waving happily at everyone.
"Hello!"
"Everyone, meet Virna. She's the rogue bandit that will be accompanying you on your quests and…." Samuel paused gazing at the large bag she was carrying" that better not be the guild's loot chest or so help me."
"Nope, it's not!" she defended.
She turned pale as the Guild Master unsheathe his sword and she quickly went back and empty her loot bag and came back with a silly smile. Everyone sweat dropped.
"She's a thief all right" said the Arc.
"I know she's going to be hard to deal with. She has a tendency to steal anything on sight" the man in armor got closer to the blond leader" she's greed incarnate."
"How's that gonna help us?"
"She might be young but Virna is an expert at what she does best. You won't have to worry about trap chests or doors with her around."
"I bet she will steal our own loot" sweat dropped Elf.
"You better believe it! Who doesn't love gold, treasure, loot, booty! It's all the same to me and I must have it all!" Virna started laughing like a maniac.
"Is it wisely to take her with us?" asked Beastmaster.
"Just do it and give her a chance. Now you have my full permission to set her straight if she behaves inappropriately. Set the rules and she better obey them, are we clear Virna?"
"Yes sir!" she gave a salute.
"You don't want to ruin your first day in this guild? I will feel bad if I have to kick you out."
"No sir. I will do my best to steal-I mean unlocked chests and doors."
"Why do I have a feeling this is going to turn into a disaster" Jaune sweat dropped.
To be continued
-My female thief OC has finally been introduced Virna her VA is Erika Linbeck in her Magilou voice from Tales of Berseria. I love that voice so wacky it's perfect for her. The best way to describe Virna is greedy as hell and a complete coward when she sees monsters. It's nice to add a character for comic relief.
-Since we never hear Vivian's voice I will make her VA Brina Palencia who has voiced Juvia from Fairy Tale, Teresa from Tales of Berseria and Elle from Tales of Xillia 2. Among many other games and anime.
-Gustaf has finally been exposed for the traitor that he is. And he's currently been caught by the worst people serves him right.
-Replying to reviews:
*Abyss Trinity- thank you hope you like this chapter and happy holidays to you too.
*calderoneric758- I don't think he will have a ship of his own and can't really put Velvet as a cameo either.
*Saint Saber Fang- thanks for voting the poll will remain open for a long time.
*Guest- gracias y si yo tambien estoy arte de personajes OP como Goku y Naruto. No le veo punto hacer historia con un personaje que esta demasiado fuerte. Por que hace el desarollo de la historia se hace muy predicible. Y si es muy predicible se pone aburido. Yo antes era fanaticos de esos anime. A mi me encantaba DBZ pero eventualmente me canse de lo mismo. Con Naruto fue la decepcion del final del manga y la pelicula The Last termine de escribir historias de Naruto por que perdi para siempre la motivacion para seguirlos. Y me enoje mucho con el autor Kishimoto que solamente dice mentira tras mentira. Por que no admite que estuvo harto de los fanaticos demandandole que haga Naruto/Hinata canon por que el admitio una vez que no tiene idea por que Hinata es tan famosa cuando rara vez sale en el manga. Y tambien creo que es un autor mediocre por estar despidiendo editores. Su editor original Yahagi que lo ayudo a escribir la 1ra parte del manga le advirtio que no le haga caso a todo lo que le dicen sus editores. Buena ya sabemos que paso. Su nuevo manga "Samurai Seven" no esta haciendo ni la mitad de las ventas que hacia Naruto. Despues de la atrocidad que hizo con el final quien va a leer su nuevo manga.
*ChimaTigon- what do you mean? I have refer to many things regarding the Goddesses.
*Lonyer182- gracias pero todavia falta para que eso pase. Quiero hacer el desarollo del harem lo mas real possible.
*TheEmeraldMage- thank you for the constant support the story will get more interesting since I'm already writing ch19.
*Midnight49- LOL you're right but there's more booby, booty and thighs with the new girls too.
*Guest- yes I knew a long time ago Daisuke Sato passed away years ago. So there won't be no season 2 of the anime nor will the manga be resume or finish. Daisuke was the one behind the story and the characters. Shoji Sato on the other hand is the artist who drew the manga but he's a hentai artist most of all. So I doubt he will even return to the manga or even finish his own manga Triage X which it's as good as HOTD.
*Ruberforumfree- well I have to give a warning because the story isn't going to stay T rated forever. Even with some of the language I am thinking of changing the rating already.
*Gabriel443- gracias no te preocupes todo en su momento.
-As always thank you very much for the favs, follows and reviews I really appreciate it.
Next time: Ghost Ship Cove