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 13 Ghost Ship Cove

(Location: ruins outskirts of the royal capital city Kingdom of Hydeland)

The party were standing near the magical gate. They have prepared their gear, supplies as they were about to head out to another quest. Their mission was to search for Prime Minister Gustaf and retrieved the royal orb he stole. According to royal scouts they spotted his ship heading to Ghost Ship Cove. Mostly know as a pirate hideout. Dangerous in nature not just because of the pirates but, because the area was filled with monsters. Nothing the group can handle with everything they've been through. Things weren't that bad they were finally able to break through the Prime Minister's mind control spell over the princess. She was back to normal and Count Dean finally took action to go after the treacherous Gustaf. With this, Vivian will be the rightful ruler of Hydeland. Also the alliance with the kingdom of Bolga will be done. That is, if they don't retrieve the orb.

Not bringing the royal treasure back will be a big problem. Not just because the mission will end in failure. But if the Prime Minister reaches Bolga and hands over the orb to the Archduke they will be risking a war between both kingdoms. That was something they couldn't let happen. So there was a lot riding on this quest more than just a few lives on the line. But the faith of the entire kingdom were on their shoulders. No pressure, Jaune was already used to this. He has faith on his party well, no everyone. The Arc has gotten a new addition to the group by order of Samuel. Virna a rogue bandit who is part of the guild. Apparently he needs her according to the Guild Master. There could be magic doors and treasure chests equipped with traps. A bandit should be able to break through those things making it easier for the party. But the blond knight thought their party member didn't have it in her.

From what he has seem so far. Virna was a crazy girl who loves gold more than life itself. The Guild Master told him she was greed incarnate, explaining she's very greedy. And her mind wasn't that clear except finding loot. The Arc was hoping he won't regret his actions taking the female bandit in. Rogues were expert in unlocking chests and doors. But they weren't experts in fighting. So while they were traveling dangerous grounds and fighting monsters, they will have to watch over the bandit. Make sure she doesn't get hurt. This will make Jaune change the strategy and battle formation. Focusing in protecting the bandit as well as the rest of the party. And he hasn't forgotten they were about to go to a pirate filled region and monsters. Turning to the bandit girl she grinned happily. Why did he had a feeling this was going to so wrong. Only more trouble for them.

"Can we get bloody moving already?"

Jaune mentally sighed at Anna's behavior. She wasn't usually the most patient of the group. But he could tell something was bothering the female pirate. Ever since Samuel mentioned Ghost Ship Cover, the woman felt anger rising within her. Though she was holding it in. The Arc could tell she was that angry and he had a pretty good idea what it was. Believing the rumors he heard from those people at Dragon's Haven Inn. It could be the same place where she lost her crew and ship to that monster. Though they've been saying it was a storm. Anna confirmed it was a monster that attacked her ship. Everyone died and she was the only survivor and thus, it's why she swore revenge to find the creature and kill it. That is why she joined his party to find the monster. At least she wasn't hell bent on vengeance knowing she couldn't take on the creature on her own. She needed strength in number, a party.

It worried the blond knight, he has come to care for the female pirate. That after they find this monster and killed it, she will leave them. Anna has been carrying this burden for who knows how long. Her pride as a pirate captain was broken beyond repair. Losing her men and ship, there was no equal blow. All she could do is moving forward and avenge them for the sake of them to rest in peace. Jaune hasn't asked her about it but he knew the rumors are true. And now, they were heading to the place where they will most likely find that monster. What if she losses control if she sees it, go on a rampage and charge in head first. Guess that's what him and the others are here for. It wasn't just the female pirate but everyone in his party. He has come to care and trust all of them. They have come close to him and he believes in all of them. Virna is someone he will have to get used to.

The party finally went to the gate getting transported to their destination. They were now standing at a large cavern in the distance, near the open sea. Ghost Ship Cove looked creepier than Jaune thought. Definitely the perfect place for pirates to use for a hideout. And all kinds of monster inhabit too. Virna saw the area and instead of being scared she was excited, imagining all the treasure they will find until monsters appeared. The greed was strong and calling to her. Before proceeding further the party leader made the new formation. Since their new member needed protection he told Elf, Sorceress and Anna to watch her back from any danger. While Amazon, Beastmaster and himself will be on the front line ready to fight. The blond knight noticed the expression of the female pirate, she was angry. This has to be where her crew got killed and lost her ship. If the monster responsible was here then, they will be forced to fight it.

Slowly the party entered the cavern, the smelled of the salt water hit their nose. It was very wet inside. There were even barrels in the way. That was enough clue the group to know there were people here. It had to be pirates the possibility that Gustaf ran into them and got captured was very high. They must have also seized all the treasure he took with him when he left the capital on his ship. Not that any of them were feeling sorry for the Prime Minister. The man had it coming for being power hungry and a traitor. Honestly his life wasn't important, what priority was getting the orb which it has to be in the possession of the pirates as well. But bringing the large man will help with their quest so he can be judge for his crimes. Most likely he will get executed due that the charges against him are of a high crime. The penalty for treason was death so either way if the pirate don't kill Gustaf the kingdom of Hydeland will.

In addition to their formation, Jaune told Sorceress to summon her skeleton servants. To increased their numbers in protecting Virna. The witch will make sure to keep close watch if there were any bones nearby. Both elves in the party sensed enemies heading their way. It was easy to disposed off since it was a swarm of bats. Not that far there was a chest. Virna immediately rant to it as if her life depended on it. The Arc sighed ordering the three members looking after her be near her. The female bandit was so focused as she started messing with the lock. A grin spread her features, this one had a trap. But this was her specialty, her forte. With this she will show everyone in the party her usefulness. It didn't took her that long to deactivate the trap and released the lock. She went crazy opening the chest revealing so much gold and loot. Virna took everything on her bag.

After collecting the treasure more trouble appeared as a group of skeletons went for the kill. Amazon used her powered attack killing three, while Jaune took three out never giving them the chance to defend with their shields. Beastmaster finished the rest with assistance from Elf's arrow. The dark elf turned to the archer giving her a nod. Guess that was to be taken as a sign of" thank you". The party took some to gazed around the cavern. There was a lake with a broken down ship with the pirate flag. Many ships have been lost in this place, from both sides. More enemies as two lizardman arrived to greet them. They were both killed by two arrow shots to the head courtesy of the archer of the group. Jaune smiled, so far so good. Still no pirates though, guess they will find out once they get deeper into the cave. Who knows how deep it is and how many monsters they might encountered.

Dealing with some more annoying bats, there was path that it could lead to the sea. The party noticed it was shallow so it was all right to cross over. There was another broken ship in the distance before more lizardmen showed up. It was not a challenge for the group but they were starting to think where could the pirates be. After making sure all the lizardmen were dead they heard a faint sound from afar. It was a beautiful voice that seems to belonged to a woman. Jaune told his party to stay on guard not risking falling for an ambush. Weapons in hand they walked following the singing voice. The Arc noticed something near a cave entrance when the voice has suddenly stopped. There was a fish caught on a net and damn it was a whopper. Getting closer the knight was shocked that the upper part of the fish was human. Half human, half, a mermaid. He has heard from the creature from fairy tales. This was his first time laying eyes on one.

The mermaid's hair was long with colors of white, brown and some blond. It was beautiful so many colors blending in. Her face was gorgeous and her eyes where emerald green. Jaune wondered if she sang to get their attention and bring them here because she was in danger.

"I knew you would come, hero" smiled the mermaid.

"Sure, let me help you with that. Stay still."

The party leader carefully cut the net with his sword making sure it doesn't hurt the humanoid. The rest of the party were quite surprised to see a mermaid too. From their expressions it was also their first time seeing one. Once the net was destroyed and set the fish beauty free she was very pleased. Turning towards her savior. That's when Jaune thought he was going to have a heart attack because he realized the mermaid was topless. And he has taken a good look at her breasts. Which they were quite nice, round not too big not too small. They were perfect size. The blond knight completely tripped with his face red like a tomato, covering his eyes. The mermaid had no idea what was wrong with him acting so strange all of the sudden. Anna was the first to react as she burst out laughing. The others noticed the female fish lack of wearing a top to cover her chest understanding why their leader would act so embarrassed.

"What's wrong mate, first time seeing a pair of tits?! Oh yeah, forgot you're a virgin."

"Stop bringing that up!" he gave the female pirate a comical expression.

"What happened to you?" Sorceress asked the mermaid.

"I was swimming near by I've been wanting to get a closer look of these caverns. What does surface food tastes like? What are the cities like? Do humans have fish scales? Is it true humans can't hold their breath under water? Are you all with the chosen hero?"

"Too many questions is giving me a headache" said Amazon.

"I suppose it can't be helped. I heard mermaids are very curious creatures" said the witch.

"Curious enough that got her captured" replied Beastmaster.

Jaune recovered walking back to the mermaid but kept his distance from not staring at her boobs. Anna chuckled at his innocence he was truly an unique man. All the men she has met would do anything to be in his shoes. They won't staring at the fish woman's breasts and they would attempt to fondle them not caring she's a mermaid or not.

"So um...How do you got captured?" asked the Arc keeping eye contact resisting temptation from gazing at those nice round boobies.

"When I was near shallow waters when a group of pirates threw the net on me. But I wasn't the only one. They have already captured a couple of humans. One was very large I never knew humans can grow their stomach at such size."

"A fat man" the blond turned to his party.

"It has to be the Prime Minister" said Elf.

"It has to be. The royal scouts said he was heading here to avoid pursuers" said the blond knight.

"Looks like it was his undoing. Getting captured by pirates, poor wanker must have the worst of luck" said Anna.

"What would they do to him?" said the elven archer.

"If his ship crashed somewhere around here, they most likely took every single treasure he had on board. They'll most likely kill him. Ordinary pirates don't keep prisoners for too long."

"All treasure including the royal orb" replied Sorceress.

"Then what are waiting for?!" spoke Virna" if there's treasure then let's get going. It's not going to steal itself, you know!"

"I'm sorry but, we have to go. We have to save those people" said Jaune to the mermaid.

"I understand, I hope we can meet again. Even if I want to know more of the surface. Thank you chosen hero, or should I say chosen heroes?" she smiled before swimming away and diving under water.

"Chosen heroes?" Amazon scratched the back of her head.

"Let's go. We have to find those pirates" urged Jaune.

Entering the cave they were greeted by purple ghouls that emerged from the ground. Virna completely freaked out. She hated zombies and ghosts. Sure bats, skeletons and lizardmen are scary but she hated these types of creatures. The rogue bandit kept her distance behind the three party members that are supposed to protect her. Sorceress noticed the many bones and skulls gathered in this cave. The witch cast her spell as all of the bones came to life, creating four skeleton servants. Virna panicked seeing this ready to run away but she was stopped by Anna and Elf. These skeletons were raised by the witches magic, so they're loyal to her. Meaning, they're allies and they will be aiding the party. Hearing the explanation from the elven archer calmed her down. Between everyone and skeleton servants, they exterminated all of the ghouls in the area. Once it was all clear, the party resumed their journey.

This was truly a big place. So far all they have fought were monsters. Not a single sign of the pirates. The area had more bats and ghouls. Elf used her salamander oil using her fire arrows to burn the undead. They are very weak against fire. While Jaune, Amazon and Beastmaster disposed of the rest. Those that will get near will received an arrow, get burned by Sorceress, or it's head blowed up by Anna's pistol. Others will get slaughtered by the witch's skeleton servants. More skeletons arrived as Sorceress commanded her skeletons to aid her leader and the others. It became a battle of bones, steel clashing and hitting shields. Until the evil undead were defeated. As the group resumed walking there was another broken down ship in the distance. This one was half destroyed showing it's back. The sight was very familiar to Anna, the female pirate stood shocked seeing the name at the lower bottom.

"Heart of the Storm" her eyes widened bringing her memories.

"This is the place mates. Ghost Ship Cove" the smiled gazing at the view of the underground caverns.

"I heard they're supposed to hidden treasure from past ships that passed through here" said a crew member.

"Those ships were attacked by monsters and the sailors never saw the light of day again. They're all resting in Davy Jones locker."

"I'd say we hit the jackpot" she smiled again.

"Are you sure you want us to spend the night here Captain?"

"Sure. We're the fiercest pirates there is. If any monster have the bloody guts to come to us, The Heart of the Storm will bring it down. Now come on my maties, this calls for a celebration for making it this far!"

"Aye aye!"

"How I bloody regret coming here. If that Kraken is still here, I'll be ready for it this time. I'm not alone, I got myself a new crew that fear nothing."

"Anna?" called Jaune.

"Sorry mate, for spacing out. We're heading out?"

"Yeah. Looks like we can enter going into the ship."

There was another ship but this one seems to be in complete form. And from its condition it was a recent one. That's whey they saw the royal seal of the kingdom of Hydeland. Which means this was Gustaf's ship. The party doubted the Prime Minister will be inside since he got captured by the pirates. Entering there were more skeletons and the fight didn't lasted long. Virna ran to a door and started smelling it. The party thought it was creepy with the way she acted. She whispered treasure as she quickly released the lock. The group heard someone calling for help. The Arc did the same when they encountered the mermaid. If this was a trap, they will be ready for it. The bandit went back behind the ladies looking after her. The blond knight stepped in followed by the Amazonian and the dark elf. Just as they thought there was someone tied up to a pole.

The prisoner was a young man in his mid twenties wearing a blue whitish captain hat, short brownish hair with blue eyes. His attire a sleeveless white tunic that stretches to a skirt with a short sleeve black shirt over. A pair of binoculars hanging on his neck, a pair of orange belts strapped in the middle with brown boots. The man saw the group and gasped.

"Don't! IT'S A TRAP!"

"We know" replied the Arc.

True what came from above the group weren't monsters as they were expecting. But people, with long curved sword and wearing the attires that would belong to a pirate. Looks like they have found them. But this couldn't be the whole bunch. There were only five of them. The pirates charged with their blade as the knight blocked and countered, the same with Amazon and Beastmaster, the rest were taken down by Sorceress skeletons and Elf's arrows. Virna reacted seeing a chest, she deactivated the trap opening as she quickly filled her loot bag with the treasure inside. After the pirates were defeated Jaune cut the ropes keeping the young man captive.

"Thank you. I thought I was going to stay here forever. Or die at the hands of those pirates."

"I would assume he's one of the captives along with the Prime Minister" said Beastmaster.

"Prime Minister? If you're talking about the large man that was taken prisoner along with me then, yes. The pirates took him somewhere else."

"Guess we're going in the right direction" said Anna.

"I'm Jaune Arc. This is my party, Amazon, Beastmaster, Elf, Sorceress and Anna."

"Pleasure to meet you. I am Elliot Pid Explorer Extraordinaire at your service."

"Elliot Pid? No way, you can't be him" said the female pirate.

"You know him?" asked the blond knight.

"I doubt to believe you are the famed explorer every sailor has talked about."

"I don't like to brag about my name but I am him. My ship was attacked by the pirates shortly after I miraculous survived and encounter with the legendary Kraken."

"The Kraken?!" the female pirate was shocked as she grabbed the young man" you saw it?! Where?!"

"I…."

"Where did you see the bloody creature?!"

"Anna, calm down!" the leader separated her from the explorer.

"I-Sorry mate. Didn't meant to lose my cool."

"That's understandable. If you want to know more about the Kraken I'll be more than happy to tell you. But I believe this isn't the best place for talk."

"Right, we still have to find Gustaf and the orb."

"Let's get a move on!" said Virna so excited" I want to find more treasure!"

"You know, some of that treasure belongs to me. I have earned them in my many adventures" said Elliot.

"Can't hear you!" the bandit pretended she didn't hear him.

"Later. When we leave this place we will split the treasure" said the Arc.

"What?!" gasped the bandit" nobody told me there will be loot sharing!"

"You're in a party now, which means all treasure found on quests will be split between us. You really couldn't expect everything will be yours."

"Yeah I did. I'm busting my butt and risking my life to get treasure for you guys!"

"And we're risking our lives trying to protect you" countered Elf while Sorceress and Anna nodded.

"Don't complain" followed the witch.

"We should get going. Can't waste any more time" said the blond leader" Elliot, you think you can leave this place on your own?"

"I can't leave yet. The reason I got here is because I heard rumors the pirates have in their possession a magic lamp. They said it summons a genie that can grant any wish."

"Any wish?!" Virna's eyes lit up" I can wish for all the world's treasures!"

"I guess he's coming with us" said Amazon.

"If he's really Elliot Pid, he can look after himself" followed the female pirate.

"All right. You can come with us" said the Arc.

"Thank you. I will do my best to help in any way I can" the explorer wasn't happy he didn't had his backpack and things, the pirates must have taken it.

"I must get my hands on that lamp!" the female bandit was so excited to know of its existence.

As they returned to the entrance of the ship Jaune noticed something on a wall of the vessel. Markings that looked like the letters L and O. The told the party to wait a little as he was sure these marks are runes. Taking his four rune stone he started guessing which one of them will be able to activate the rune magic. The red, yellow and blue didn't worked so he eventually tried the green one with the lightning bolt mark. Then again it might also have the resemblance to the letter S spelling the word" SOL". Honestly he had no idea what it meant but it worked as the green stone were glowing along with the markings on the wall. The magic was activated as a circle with glyphs appeared below the party. The cause healed any injuries or exhaustion they had on them. This sure helped a lot because they didn't know how far this place goes. Or how deep is the pirates hideout.

After the healing circle vanished the large party went to another entrance at the front. The next room of the ship had a group of skeletons and ghouls. While everyone was fighting Virna took her chance to go to the treasure chest even if she was breaking formation. They were too focusing on the monsters, and the monsters were only focusing on them too. Elliot was also doing well fighting with his sword. Guess being a world famous explorer means he has to know how to defend himself. The female bandit grinned evilly, this chest was also equipped with a trap, a deadly one from the looks of it. She considered herself the best so she deactivated the trap and unlocked it. Taking all of the loot and even weapons that were inside. By the time she was done, the party was also done dealing with the creatures. Jaune wasn't happy the bandit broke formation risking her life. You don't put yourself in danger just for treasure.

But I guess it won't hurt this one time. They have the numbers now with Elliot and Sorceress skeletons. They have the advantage, strength and safety in numbers. They were able to leave the ship walking a pier that was filled with bats and further ahead more skeletons. Jaune was impressed at how Elliot was able to fight with his sword. The rest of his party thought the same, guess he was the real deal after all. They kept moving and now they were in a very dark cave. Elliot found a torch giving them light. Dark places were dangerous because you never know what kind of monster will appeared. The path revealed more bats along ghosts. Sorceress quickly used fire to scared the spirits off while the others killed the bats. Guess in a place like this there should be expected to see ghost types. Having so many members in one party really does a difference specially, when they were following the Arc's strategy.

More ghosts and bats arrived along with a group of skeletons and ghouls. They weren't giving the group a break. These pirates sure picked the perfect location for their hideout. Among, all of these monsters. The skeletons servants took on the skeletons while Sorceress removed all of the ghost with her fire magic. Jaune, Amazon, Beastmaster and Elliot took out the rest of the skeletons. Elf and Anna defeated the remaining bats. If they faced quite the lot of creatures this could mean they were in the depths of cavern. So maybe they weren't that far away. Jaune ordered everyone to take a small breather as he planned the next strategy. The fact the pirates tried to ambush when they saved Elliot means they know they were here. So most likely they will be expecting the party's arrival at their hideout. Another ambush is bound to happen so he told everyone to be prepare for anything.

"Everyone, we don't know how many pirates there could be. No matter how many of us there are, I'm not risking it. Drink some healing potions if you have to and strong draugth."

"If the Prime Minister is alive. They could be using him as bait to lure us in like they did with Elliot" said Sorceress.

"Right, that's why we have to go full force and make sure their ambush doesn't succeed."

"Point is, they know we're here. They're not going to pull any punches" replied Beastmaster.

"I'm always ready. Let them come" said Amazon.

"Been looking forward to fight some pirates myself" grinned Anna.

"I will do my best" said Elliot.

The party finally left the dark cavern as they kept going forward. There were some barrels and swords in corners. Along with a big pile of treasure. Virna lost it when she saw it. The female bandit was ready to run and claim everything for herself. But Jaune stopped her on her tracks. This was definitely a trap and that pile of treasure must belong to the Prime Minister. And speaking of the large man. There stood Gustaf on a cage with his arms and legs tied up, and his mouth covered by a piece of cloth. The pirates didn't kill him after all. So it was as Sorceress said, the pirates were using him as bait to lure the group. An ambush as expected. The Arc has changed Crocea Mors to great sword mode warning his party. The royal orb wasn't in the pile of loot which means the pirates must have it. Slowly they took a few steps while Virna was going gaga at the mountain of treasure.

"Attack!"

The pirates have jumped from their hiding spot facing the party. There were over ten of them. Elf and Beastmaster could sensed more of them hidden. It must be part of their plan Send more as reinforcements if things go bad for them. Next to the cage where Gustaf was held captive stood a pirate wearing different clothes. It was black and red, his sword was also red. This guy must be their leader as he was holding the royal orb. The pirates may be skilled to a degree but the party was stronger. Heavy hitters like Amazon and Jaune. Then fast attackers like Beastmaster and Elf and all range like Anna. Plus the four skeleton servants and Elliot. It was enough to give the pirates a run for their gold. The leader kept commanding his troops to stepped in and kill the intruders. But they were having no luck, one by one they were falling.

Yet the leader in black and red wasn't panicking. Because he had a secret weapon that will turn tide of this fight. He has taken the golden lamp as he has called forth the mystical being known as the genie. The genie was tall and muscular with purple skin golden bracelets with a black short beard. Have summoned the being, the genie was ready to attack the pirates' enemies. Elliot gasped at the sight of the lamp and the genie.

"Everyone! TAKE COVER!"

The genie released powerful gust of winds as the party were sent flying. The skeleton servants were defeated by such a powerful spell. Beastmaster went cast her support spell she cursed for not doing it early. Sorceress aided her with protection then followed with ice prison and blizzard. Jaune glared at the pirate leader holding the lamp with the genie. As long as he has it, the pirates will be impossible to defeat. He told Elf to aim at the lamp, to make sure it's out of the hands of the leader before the genie attacks again. The elven archer fired an arrow hitting the lamp, removing from the leader's hands. The genies went back in. Now they needed to make sure no one takes the lamp or they will be in big trouble. The blond knight blocked sword attacks while countering, everyone else was so busy. Everyone except, his eyes were on the female bandit that was far away from the conflict.

"Virna!" he got her attention" the lamp! GET THE LAMP!"

Seeing the treasure right for the taking the bandit didn't needed to be told twice. She ran with pure greed in her before a pirate was about to attack her. Only to get an arrow on the head thanks to Elf. She took it and ran away while Jaune ordered everyone to cover Virna. The female bandit was staring deeply at the golden lamp this thing must worth millions if not, billions of gold. Another pirate was about to attack her when Elliot came and took him out. He snatched the lamp from the bandit making her yelled like a spoiled brat. The explorer raised it as the gemie came forth. The Arc immediately told his party to cover Elliot so that no one takes the lamp from him. The genie has unleashed a fire storm that burned the pirates to a crisp. The leader wasn't happy as he ordered the remaining of his men after the group. Demanding to retrieve the lamp. Easier said than done.

It was too much for the pirates. Amazon, Beastmaster, Anna, Elf, Sorceress casting more spells and their strong leader along with the genie's magic attacks.

The pirate leader saw everything with a shocked expression. Ever single one of his crew mates have been killed. He was the only one left and even with his skills and magic. It was impossible to take on all of them. Specially since they still have the lamp in their possession. Just who are these people. At first, he thought they were rookie adventurers that should be easy pickings. But he was so wrong. They were well experienced, the battle coordination and teamwork was flawless. Looks like he messed with the wrong folks.

"How can this be…?"

"It's over. Give up now and we won't have to hurt you. We only want the orb. We'll let you go if you give it to us" said the party leader.

"Fool. You think I will run away? We may be outlaws, thieves and murderers but we still have a code of honor. We always obey it, the pirate code is absolute!"

"Pirate code?" the blond knight have never heard of it before.

"You're not a pirate, so you won't understand. A captain will always chose to die with his crew along with the ship than run away."

He suddenly vanished appearing right before the Arc shocking everyone. He was so fast.

"DIE!"

A shoot has pierced his chest as the pirate leader fell to the ground. He was clingy to his wound. Everyone turned to Anna who has fired her pistol, the smoke coming out of the tip of the weapon. She walked over to the wounded man.

"I am a pirate. I know that code better than anyone mate. That's how it should be"

"I know you...You're her The Human Storm. Then those people with you, I should have known you weren't ordinary adventurers. But he said we will be safe as long as we continue to distribute supplies with the nearby islands. He promised us we will have all the treasure we would desire…."

"He?" this got Jaune's attention walked over to him" who are you talking about?"

The pirate leader coughed a lot of blood as he was in a lot of pain. Anna immediately pointed the gun to his head and fired. Killing him instantly.

"Why did you do that?!" the blond leader was shocked.

"I did him a favor mate. No matter how much he was in pain he wasn't going to tell you anything. It's part of the Pirate's Code to never snitch as well as dying with their crew and ship. I gave him a quick death, it's the least I can offer him."

The female pirate knelt and took the royal orb from the dead pirate leader's hand.

"This is what we came here for, right? Mission accomplished" she handed the orb to the Arc.

"And the Prime Minister?" said Sorceress.

"Almost forgot about him" said Beastmaster.

Back in the cage Gustaf was wide awake and he saw the whole fight. Who would have ever thought this party was so strong. Not just Jaune but, everyone else. Samuel has probably formed the strongest party in the Adventurer's Guild. Amazon broke the lock opening the cage as she took the large man out. The Arc went to him and removed the piece of cloth on his mouth.

"Jaune...You-You saved me, all of you. I am so glad. I thought I was going to die when those pirates attacked me I-"

"Save it. We'll be taking you back to the capital and you will be judge for your crimes."

"Can't say it's been nice knowing you mate" smirked Anna.

"And we'll be taking ALL of your treasure too!" said Virna as she was already trying to get as much loot on her bag as possible.

"I'm sure we can talk this over" the man gulped he knew he will be executed.

The witch has suddenly cast a spell changing Gustaf. Everyone blinked when they saw a frog in his place. They turned to the busty woman.

"Just to make sure he doesn't run off. I gave him a strong doze that will last for a few days. He'll be back to normal once we reach the capital."

"I guess our quest is done" said Amazon.

"Not yet, we still need to do something with the genie" said Jaune.

"That's right! We have to make our wishes!" the female bandit was now looking forward for more treasure.

"Elliot, summon him."

The explorer nodded as he raised the lamp unleashing the being in purple. There weren't any hostiles in the area, asides all of the dead pirates.

"Are you ready to make your wish?"

"We are" the blond knight has taken the lamp from the young explorer.

"Just to let you know, I can only grant one wish."

"That will be enough."

"What are you going to wish for Jaune?" asked Elf.

"All the treasures in the world!" said Virna in her crazy greedy mode.

"Not even close. We can't let the lamp fall into the wrong hands. The genie can be a real threat like just now with the pirates. Tell me genie are you bound by the lamp by choice?"

The being raised an eyebrow first time someone has actually asked him that. This young man seems to be a weird one.

"No, as a genie I'm bound to the lamp forever. It's been that way for thousands of years."

"Must be very lonely being inside that lamp."

"There is no need to get concern. I live to serve those that summon me whether in battle or fulfilling a wish."

"Aren't you curious to see the world with your own eyes?"

The being chuckled" you're quite the weird human. What is your name?"

"Jaune Arc."

"Well, you amused me. Tell me your wish already."

"All the treasures in the world, all the treasures in the world all-"

The female bandit was hit in the head by Amazon as she was seeing stars.

"Genie, I wish for your freedom."

Virna's mouth stood wide opened while the rest of the party were expecting that kind of answer from their leader. The genie was even more shocked as his golden bracelets were removed from the wish. In his entire life he has never thought someone would actually wish for this. For him to be free from his prison of the lamp. From his duty as a genie. The middle portion of his body was no longer in smoke as it transformed into legs. It was true, he was free. Free to do whatever he likes. All he could do is teared up and hugged the human who has given him this chance that he never thought would come.

"Jaune Arc...You have no idea how happy you have made me. I will be forever in your debt!"

"As long as you don't cause any trouble, it's fine with me."

"I won't. But there's so much to do, I never thought this day would ever come in my life time."

"Well, you now have all the time in the world being free."

"I know where to start. I'm going to travel the world in search for the most beautiful girls and make my own HAREM!"

"…...…...…...…..."

"Yes. It has been my long time dream to have so many beautiful wives at my side serving me. Now that I'm free I can actually do it. Though it seems Jaune, you already have a harem of your own."

The Arc blushed turning to his party. The five ladies looked embarrassed while Anna winked at him.

"They're not my harem, they're my party."

"No need to be ashamed. Sometimes one woman isn't enough. You must have more love is a powerful thing and it should be shared."

"What bout the lamp?" said Elf while dismissing her blush.

"You can keep it for all I care for. I have a lot of traveling to do. Farewell Jaune Arc and his friends, I hope we get to meet again someday!" he suddenly vanished.

"Elliot, I think you should keep the lamp. You've been searching for it after all."

"Yes. Thank you, I don't mind if it doesn't housed the genie anymore. I am more interested in its design anyway" replied the famous explorer.

"What about it's value?!" Virna argued.

"Come on everyone, let's get going."

By the time they have left the caverns it was starting to get dark. The party went to a safe location miles away from Ghost Ship Cove. They weren't going to make it to the capital so they decided to camp for the night. They invited Elliot to join them for dinner. Besides, Anna wanted him to tell her what he knows of the Kraken. Jaune set everything up as he chose the ingredients courtesy of Sorceress with her create food skill. He didn't minded cooking for his party and they all liked it. Amazon approved of it. In fact the female pirate was the only one who hasn't taste it yet. After an hour the food was ready and the Arc served everyone. They all dig in after a long quest and a lot of fighting. Virna was truly happy asides filling her stomach she has taken a lot of loot. Today has been a good day while avoiding the ghosts and the ghouls. They ate more than one dish while the Amazonian has eaten ten time as expected from the warrior.

After the meal Elliot told everyone about his dangerous encounter with the deadly Kraken. The explorer said he was sailing around the southern sea when he spotted the tentacles of the creature. It was a miracle it didn't attacked him. Probably because it must have fed before he encountered it. He also pointed that the creature will make Ghost Ship Cover it's lair depending on the season. That would explained why the party didn't saw it during their journey. If there re strong storms on the sea the Kraken will go to the caverns of destroyed ships to shelter itself. Anna's eyes narrowed thinking of the Kraken. Looks like she will have to wait a little longer until she can have her revenge. But not everything was lost, at least she got valuable information. If the season changes the creature might come to the Cove again. And that's when she will make her move. Jaune already said he will help her so she was counting on him and everyone else to aid her defeating this monster.

Once it got darker everyone set their tents. Eliot's was a little bigger after he was able to retrieved his stuff from the pirate's hideout. Jaune volunteered for the first watch as everyone else will get some rest. The famed explorer said he will be parting ways the next day. He wanted to continue traveling and searching for new places. When they were all asleep the Arc stood in thought. He made up his mind. When they get to the capital, he will tell them the truth along Samuel. It was time they find out where he comes from and their mission given by the Goddesses. They might not believe him but they needed to know. Keeping this secret from them hasn't been easy. A sudden sound caught the blonds' attention, an owl stood on a branch. It was colored white with brown. The knight has always thought these type of birds to be creepy, not cute like his mother would say. He went back to his job looking out for the group.

Unaware that the owl's eyes were glowing and they were on him.

"This bunch is starting to become a nuisance."

A lone figure was watching the blond knight and the rest of the party. Using a crystal ball through the eyes of the owl. Obviously this person wasn't pleased.

"I knew those pirates were going to be useless. Just what were you thinking relying on them?"

"As useless as they were. They still served their purpose in acquiring what we've been seeking. Tomes on ancient magic and other mystical artefacts. They didn't hesitated handing them to me since all they care about is treasure" said the Warlock who wasn't that far.

"True, I won't deny that they weren't completely useless. But, we should have seen this coming. They never stood a chance against this group…."

"Something on your mind?"

"I wonder...This group of six could they possible be the heroes spoken in the legend? If they are, things will get complicated. Our plans will be in jeopardy. Failure is not an option for our master. You know that?"

"I have already set the next set of plans in motion" replied the Warlock" won't deny they're strong but just like the rest of the world, they're blind to what surrounds them. A shame we lost the royal orb. A war between the kingdoms of Bolga and Hydeland is part of our master wishes."

"I'm not concern with that. They will always be chances to ignite the flames of hatred. Bolga has been wanting to invade Hydeland for a long time. They just need the right spark to ignite that fire hmm…."

"Forgive me for asking, you don't seem to be interested in that part of the plan."

"You know our group doesn't care about political affairs. Making two kingdoms go to war is child's play compare to what we're capable of. Alas, you should report to the master."

The Warlock nodded as he vanished.

The figure with a female voice kept staring at the crystal ball. It was still on the blond knight leading this group. An evil grin spread her features.

To be continued

-I felt it was right to add Elliot Pid from the art gallery to the story. Specially in the Ghost Ship Cove stage. True I changed the information said about him. I still wanted to add him. As for his VA I only thought of Pryce Papenbrook who has voiced many of my favorite characters like Asbel Lhant Tales of Graces, Kirito Sword Art Online, Eren Yeager Attack on Titan among many others.

-The genie was a must to add him since he's used during the pirates' boss fight. Jaune wishing for his freedom is also something he will do. I was inspired by that scene in the Disney movie Aladdin (the cartoon one I still haven't seen the live action one). And of course I have to make his art gallery happened titled" The Genie's Harem". With him being finally to fulfill his long time dream. As for his VA I only thought of Nolan North no one else. The guy can do so many voices it's only natural I will add him to the VA list for this story.

-There are villains in this story because I felt the canon game was lacking on them even if they're mentioned in the art galleries. The woman looking through the crystal ball all I can say her VA is Laura Bailey one of my fav female voice actresses. Doing one of her low voices instead of deep ones like Lust from Full Metal Alchemist.

-Forgot about the mermaid's voice. Doubt she'll be appearing again in the future. I guess her VA can be Luci Christian who voiced Miss Malachite from RWBY and she also voices the tall woman with the hammer from the Ace Ops. She also voices Ochako from my Hero Academia.

-Replying to reviews:

*Messiah of Authors- it's not that Jaune is playing hard to get he's a man of morals. Anna had it coming for thinking he will go for it. Don't worry things will eventually change.

*TheEmeraldMage- always happy to know you like the story and your support thanks.

*Wolfpackersson09- thanks I don't know about the story. It seems like AU I don't mind adding it to my challenges.

*Lonyer182- muchas gracias espero que te siga gustando la historia.

*Abyss Trinity- trust me Jaune has a limit that might cost him in the long run. I mean he has so many hot women in his party. Sooner or later he is bound to break lol.

*Chima Tigon- maybe but I don't know about bringing Pyrrha.

*calderoneric758- maybe I still don't know.

*Saint Saber Fang- yeah Jaune is innocent but like I said he has morals. But that won't save him for too long lol.

*Rafafalafa- dude you sound like a true expert in the topic you have my respects.

*Gabriel443- gracias igual.

-This is officially the last chapter of the year. Here's hoping to update other stories in the new year as well as writing new ones.

-As always thank you very much for the favs, follows and reviews I really appreciate it.

Next time: Revelation