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 14 Revelation
(Location: Royal Capital City Kingdom of Hydeland)
When they party returned. Gustaf has changed back to his human self. It took the group a few days from Ghost Ship Cove to the capital. Jaune should really talk to Samuel about having a transport spell to send them back without the need of traveling on foot. It will save them a lot of time. Or give the magical gate an upgrade, something like that. Sorceress made sure the Prime Minister would remained a frog until returning to the capital. Her curse spell was a strong doze so it kept the man in that shape for that long. Once he was back they tied him up well so he doesn't get the chance to make a break for it. Either way, the fat man was too much of a coward to attempt to escape. After what he witnessed. Seeing what Jaune's party is capable of. They were able to disposed of his captors the pirate and they were able to crossed the Ghost Ship Cover, killing how many monsters along the way.
The atmosphere of the town completely changed when the party were walking the streets. The people were in shock laying eyes on them. Or more precise, they were on the Prime Minister. Immediately the people's reaction changed to one of pure anger. Gustaf was now getting hit by fruits and vegetables. The citizens weren't holding back as they went to get any near by food and throw it at the large man. Boy they were furious, yelling at him traitor, off with his head, hang him. Jaune used his shield to protect the man but it was too late since he was covered in tomatoes, apples, lettuces among others. This was a clear sign that Count Dean has made the announcement of the Prime Minister's betrayal. Joining forces with the kingdom of Bolga, using a magic necklace to take control over the princess and stealing the royal orb. Their anger must be on the fact that the people used to trust Gustaf but, not anymore.
Things were becoming out of control as some of the citizens decided to take out personal. Instead of fruits and vegetable, they were throwing rocks even horse excrement. They were even those that tried to attack the man. But the Arc and his party immediately stopped them. True, they had every right to be angry at Gustaf. But there was a limit, he has been captured and he will be facing justice for his crimes. When they were near the path that leads to the castle, royal guards arrived to retrieve the large man. The party let them handle it from here. They already did the hard part so it should be obvious the guards will do the easy part of the job. They took the former Prime Minister to the castle, sending him straight to the dungeon. One of the guards approached the group and told them the Count and the Princess wanted to see him and they were currently waiting for them at the throne room. The blond knight nodded accepting the request.
Now that Gustaf has been sent off all they needed to do now is return the orb. They arrived seeing the two talking to each other. But turned their attention as soon as they saw the party lead by the blond knight. As soon as they were close to the two the knelt down before them. Jaune offered the royal orb as Dean kindly took the royal treasure from his hands. The Count offered it to the princess in return. This has really put them at ease from their growing concerns.
"Please rise, all of you" smiled Vivian.
The party did as told as they met the two face to face. They were relief but most of all, they were pleased.
"We thought of the worse possible outcome. But it seems you have proved me wrong again Jaune" replied Dean.
"We were only doing what was right."
"You did more than just captured Gustaf and retrieved the royal orb. You and your party have prevented a possible war between our kingdom and Bolga through your actions. Since neither of the two made it to the kingdom. The Archduke will have no choice but to remain on standby. Can't guarantee he will be happy knowing his plans have been ruined."
"I'm happy that there will be no meaningless bloodshed" said the Arc.
"For the time being, we can relax. Bolga won't try anything but who knows how long until Mcneil comes up with something. You all have our thanks."
"We are in your debt. Thank you all of you" smiled the Princess.
"I like the welcoming committee they gave to the Prime Minister" spoke Anna with a smirk remembering how the people threw so many fruits and vegetables at the large man.
"The kingdom is already well informed of the truth. Gustaf will receive a fair trial, the council will eventually find him guilty of his crimes against the crown. The punishment for this level of treason is death" said the Count.
"I had a feeling it will come to that. I'm glad you were able to convinced the people knowing that they trusted him greatly. But, is there any evidence that can be used against him and prove he's guilty?" said the blond knight.
"Excellent question and the answer is yes" the man has taken a book from his coat pocket" Gustaf's journal. We did a whole search of his chambers after he left. Asides finding a lot of gold probably the money he's been stealing from taxpayers and the church. Everything is here. His plan to control the throne from behind the scenes, his alliance with Bolga, paying Tommit to steal the royal scepter even the arrange marriage between the Archduke and Vivian."
"More gold? Fatty already had his ship filled with all kind of loot. Talk about stuffing his pockets" said the female pirate surprised.
The princess glared at the thought of marrying Mcneil. The man was arrogant, greedy, power hungry and there are rumors he's always fooling around with women. Mostly with prostitutes.
"The only reason Gustaf won the trust and respect from the people of the capital is mainly because he had Vivian by his side. Though he's very good with his words. Having the support of the heiress to the throne helped him a whole lot more gained his famed reputation. Said reputation died when you were able to break the spell he had over Vivian."
"I am sorry once more for involving you in this matter."
"Princess, it wasn't your fault. Gustaf tricked you, just like he tricked the people. Everyone thought he was trustworthy" said Jaune.
"I am relief to see that things will return to normal with both royal treasures back in rightful hands" said Sorceress.
"The council has been suspecting on Gustaf's actions for a while too. So it wouldn't be long before his scheme was going to be exposed. Anyway, I thank you all again. I'm certain now I can put the safety of this kingdom in your hands."
The blond knight blinked gazing at him, then at his party. They all smiled. Putting the safety of a kingdom in a group was a pretty big deal. This will definitely increased their reputation and he knew Samuel was going to be very proud of him. Protecting Hydeland, it was part of the mission the Goddesses have given him. If they were watching him they will be pleased with his deeds.
"I see no problem in that" the witch smiled proudly.
"I'm always willing to help as long as I get to fight" said Amazon.
"It's all for a good cause, then I'm in" followed Anna.
"Will the Princess become queen now?" asked Elf.
"There has been a slight change in plans" Dean turned to his niece who nodded" we will held a memorial ceremony for my brother the king in the coming days along with his funeral. Once that is out of the way the council has made the decision to declare me the rightful successor to the throne. I will become this kingdom's next ruler."
That really surprised the group. Jaune was expecting this would happen. Not that he didn't trusted the Count. But it should be inevitable. Because he is the younger brother of the late king. Gazing at the princess she seemed fine with it. Maybe she wasn't ready for the position yet. Ruling a kingdom was no easy task.
"Now do not misunderstand my actions. I am not doing this on self interest rather than I'm doing this for Vivian. With me being the successor she's next in line to the throne. I want to rule as king so I can help her, guide her in my footsteps. I know she can become a great ruler with time. And if anything befalls me she can take over and resume Hydeland's legacy with the principles my brother and our ancestors built on this kingdom. All of it couldn't have been made if it wasn't for the seven of you."
"So, do we get a special reward?! As long as it's shiny and expensive I will take it!" Virna had to ruin the moment, she wanted more treasure.
"Ignore her sir. She's, still excited from the quest. I mean, we got a LOT of loot while retrieving the orb and capturing Gustaf" the Arc glared at the female bandit pointing out now it wasn't a good time to get engulf in her greediness.
"It's a long road to achieve peace, not an easy one. The Chignac orc tribe is pushing in from the east, and more tribes are joining their ranks. They're an ever-present menace. Also, the matter with Bolga still bothers me. You may have stopped Gustaf but I'm sure the Archduke won't give up so easily. He will make his move when the opportunity rises. There's another matter that is worse. The evil enchanters of the Morneon religion have cast their lot with Bolga."
"Uncle Dean please, calm down" Vivian got worried" you're not king yet and you're already worrying about outside kingdom affairs."
"I'm always worrying of the affairs that could become a threat to this kingdom."
"Well, if you need help you know what to do. Just fill in a quest form at the guild. We'll accept it eventually" smiled Jaune.
"I know. You must be tired after your quest and all the traveling. Get some rest, you have earned it."
The party nodded and bid farewell to the future ruler of Hydeland and the princess. Dean stood in thought shortly. At least the royal treasures were back with them. However, there was still one missing and it cost his brother's life to find it.
"The Dragon's Crown...I must have it…."
After leaving the castle the party's next destination is the guild. The last thing they needed to do is give their report to Samuel and finally call it a day. Jaune took a quick glance at the ladies. They must be exhausted after everything they've been through. Except for Amazon she looked like she was ready for another quest. Then again, her stomach roared. More like she was ready for another feast at the Dragon's Haven Inn. All the fighting they did have awaken her huge appetite. The Count's words were in his head. His party will be held responsible for very important quests from now on. Involving keeping the safety of Hydeland. This is what they were meant to do. Protect this kingdom from any threat. They were after all, the chosen heroes. And speaking of that the Arc has been doing a lot of thinking. After their quest at Ghost Ship Cove the blond leader decided to finally tell his team the truth.
It was time, they needed to know. And he has come to trust them with his life. Maybe not Virna because she's new and she was more into the loot than saving Hydeland. But he can trust her eventually. Still he wasn't used to the crazy greedy bandit. Most importantly the origins of himself. Jaune knew they weren't going to believe him. That he was from another world, that he died and was brought to this world by the three Goddesses. He was chosen by them and there were more chosen heroes. It sounded crazy sure. But it's crazier all of the monster he has fought. And just when he thought Grimm were evil and scary. The blond just kept calm this was a decision he made a couple of days ago. Whether they believe him or not, they will know. Samuel also needed to know because he owes the Guild Master everything. For helping him get stronger and the person he is today.
Arriving at the guild hall Virna was about to ran off before the Arc caught her. He reminded her the party rules. All treasure found on quest will be share half between members. The rogue bandit frowned as she did our told giving everyone their share. Once she had her own share she left in a blink of an eye. This time the blond knight will let her count the gold coins and go gaga over the loot. Looking around there were a couple of people laughing and talking, sharing their own adventures. If Samuel wasn't here then he must be in his office. Doing the paperwork, his favorite part of the job. Jaune rolled his eyes he must be cursing right about now. The poor guy couldn't catch a break. The duty of the Guild Master was a hard one. When they arrived at the door to his face, the leader gave a gentle but loud knock. Hearing confirmation they could enter, the party went inside.
The man clad in armor stood seated on his desk. Writing, doing the paperwork with his trusty feather pen. His expression was one of annoyance. Today must be a busier day of work than usual. Sorceress whispered to the blond leader if they should come at another time. The Guild Master clearly not in a mood. The Arc whispered back it was all right. They needed to give their report and also tell him the good news. Maybe that will put him in a better mood. It was very kind of the witch but since they were here they should get on with it. Besides, Jaune made up his mind to tell his party and Samuel the truth right now. This was the perfect moment and he wasn't planning on wasting it. The poor man gave a sigh turning to the group and forced a smile. Not his favorite part of the job.
"You're all back, thank the Goddesses. How was the quest?"
"You know same old. Fought lots of undead monsters, pirates, found lots of treasure, captured Gustaf and retrieved the royal orb. It's a success" the blond knight smiled.
"Well done, my boy!" the man in armor got up from his desk and gave his pupil a hug.
"I'm proud of you, all of you! I knew everything was going to be all right. There was no need to worried."
"That means he was worried" Elf smiled.
"Yes, I was worried. I will always get worried for the members of my guild. But anyway if it was a success, I expect the princess and Count Dean were pleased with your work."
"More than you know, they're in our debt. They will put Gustaf on trial and if he's guilty they will probably held a public execution" Jaune sighed he didn't like the news.
"Nothing to be proud of. I know how you feel. But that's how the justice system of this kingdom works. Gustaf's crimes are serious and go against the laws established by the past rulers of Hydeland. He knew this very well and he still made his choice to do such awful things. Forgive me for sounding cruel but don't feel sorry for him. Not all people can be saved. You can't save those that don't want to be saved."
The party leader nodded as he suddenly smiled" for the good news. Count Dean was named the new successor for the throne by the council and he wants to help the princess learn from his ruling. I believe him. His ways may be strict but he's a good person on the inside and cares a lot for Vivian."
"As it should be with family no matter if they're royalty or not. I'd say the future of this kingdom looks very bright. Now, normally I would call for a celebration and drink ourselves until we passed out. But, as you can see, I have too much for to finish before the day ends. So, I'm afraid the celebration will have to wait."
"That's fine by us. We'll take a few days off until you give us the next quest."
"We will celebrate, all of you deserve it. Here Jaune, sing the quest form proof that you have completed."
The Arc nodded singing the piece of paper making it official.
"That's one less paper out of the way" Samuel sighed in relief.
"Well, if we're done here. I'd say we head out and have a long break. That quest was quite the adventure" said Anna.
"Yeah, I'm hungry" said Amazon.
"I could use some training, followed by a short nap" replied Beastmaster.
"I would like to fix my equipment and do some quick practice" followed Elf.
"Go ahead, you all have earned it" said the Guild Master proudly.
"Guys, wait" the blond leader stopped them making this his official chance to finally tell them" before you guys go. There's something you guys need to know. It's very important. You too Samuel."
The man in armor and the party didn't know what was going on. Or why the blond leader's face was so serious all of the sudden. So Jaune finally broke the silence he's been keeping from them for so long. He told them everything. That he was from another world called Remnant where he attended a school that trains Huntsmen and Huntresses. The initiation exam at the Emerald Forest where he met his future teammates, the birth of Team JNPR, becoming friends with Team RWBY. All of the things from his days in Beacon, the Vytal Festival, the Fall of Beacon. He ended spilling the beans about Pyrrha's death. His journey to Mistral with his two teammates and Ruby. All the events that lead to the battle of Haven Academy where he lost his life. Protecting the life of his friend that she was about to get stab by Cinder's spear. The blond knight didn't stopped there as he resumed telling them how he ended up in this world.
He met the three Goddesses Althena, Jula and Vernas. They brought him here because he was chosen by them as a hero. Jaune also told that there were more chosen heroes like him. His mission for being brought here because they feared the powerful evil they sealed in another dimension will be resurrected and will threaten all of this land. It will be up to him and the rest of the heroes to stop this evil from returning. Lastly he told them of the Goddesses blessing him with their power giving him the ability to sense other chosen heroes. The final revelation that his party are all chosen heroes because he felt the surge of power when he first met them. Telling them this wasn't using for the blond. They might think he only recruited because they were heroes like him. Even if those were his intentions at the beginning he didn't care anymore. Chosen or not they were his trusted companions and friends.
Jaune was finally done, he stopped talking and looked at everyone. Samuel seemed in deep thought, the same with Sorceress and Elf, Amazon was scratching the back of her head like she didn't got the message, Beastmaster's expression was a little unease and Anna just shook her head. Looks like he already knew who was the first who didn't believe him squat. But the Arc doesn't regret his choice. This is what he wanted to do and it feels great to get it out of his chest. He sweat hearing the female pirate chuckling. Yeah, this is the kind of reaction the blond leader was expecting.
"Wow, that was quite the tale mate. I think you should have your head check for any concussions."
"I'm wasn't expecting that you will believe me, right away. I'm being honest and I'm sorry that I kept this from all of you for so long. I wanted to tell you, I really did. But it wasn't the right time. After everything we've been through, I couldn't keep it a secret any longer. I felt like I was betraying your trust. It sounds crazy, impossible and I used to think that for a while. Heck, I still can't believe to this day I died and now I'm living in a new world. But now that I'm here, I'm not going to waste this second chance."
The party stood silent while Anna was still thinking he lost a couple of screws on that last quest.
"I believe you."
Everyone was shocked turning to Samuel.
"You do?" Jaune was more shocked than the rest.
"You can't be serious!" followed the female pirate.
"I've heard many tales during my life. Many were just rumors or myths. But, there is one that has been passed down too many residents of the kingdom of Hydeland for many years. A legend that spokes of six heroes chosen by the Goddesses that will protect the land from all evil and maintain peace. It is a legend but the one thing that was cleared is, the first hero chosen won't be from this world."
"I had no idea" the blond was still shocked first time hearing of the legend.
"Why didn't you bring this up sooner?" said Anna.
"Because he just brought it now. I have no reason to doubt Jaune. I trust him and besides, it will explain a few things. I remembered when you first came to the guild. So clueless, a fresh face, you had no idea where you were. It was more than just your first time coming to the capital. But, it was your first time being in this world. Maybe that was the reason I took you in and chose to train you. Deep down, I had this feeling that you were meant for something greater than being a famous adventurer. Your story confirms my feeling. You are a chosen hero from the Goddesses and so is your party."
"Give me a bloody break" sighed the pirates woman.
"Everyone. Like I said, you don't have to believe me. I know it sounds unfair that I wanted you guys to be part of my party because I knew you were heroes too. I don't regret it because I trust you all more than you know and I have to care for all of you. I can't do this on my own. I will understand if you don't want to continue traveling with me, but I…." he paused.
"It's all right Jaune, you said enough. It's been a long day. Why don't you all get that well deserve break? If you wish we can resume talking about this another day" said the Guild Master.
"I am done here" Anna left without looking back.
The Arc gave a sigh gazing at the rest of his party. They seemed like they had a lot on their mind. He wasn't going to pressure them or make them stay with him. It was better to leave them alone and give them some time to think things through. After all, he just told them a lot of information that is hard to believe by anyone.
The following days were busy and filled with important events. The former Prime Minister Gustaf's trial was held and like Count Dean said, he was found guilty on all charges. Thanks to the evidence from his journal he left behind. A very idiotic move. The next day his public execution was held at the square plaza as the entire capital witnessed his death by being hanged. Jaune didn't attended, he had no desire to see such thing. Gustaf may have been a scum but it didn't meant he was going to enjoy watching him die. He has never taken pleasure in taking someone's life. Even during his quests that he had to kill people, namely the wizards from Wallace's Underground Labyrinth or the ones from Bilbaron. But it was all part of being an adventurer and chosen hero. Some choices are going to be hard to made. Learning to deal with them is part of accepting the job and growing up, he supposed.
The memorial ceremony for the late king was also held at the castle courtyard. Everyone was invited as they pay their respects and bid farewell to their former ruler. Count Dean gave an inspiring speech about his older brother. Followed by Princess Vivian whose speech was heartwarming and emotional. She was in tears as she spoke those words reminding her how much she was going to miss her beloved father. After the speech everyone has placed flowers on the memorial statue of the king. A few days later Count Dean's coronation ceremony was held as the man gratefully accepted the position approved by the council as he approached the head priest of the church giving him his blessing and the title. Everyone cheered as Dean became Hydeland's new king. Of course Jaune also attended with members of his party. He still didn't know how they feel about the truth. Dean held the royal scepter and orb proudly bearing his new title with so much pride.
Before Jaune realized a week has passed. The blond knight wanted to check up on his party since he hasn't heard much from them. Not since the memorial ceremony and crowning ceremony. He will give them space if that's what they wanted. It worried him that they might not want to be part of his team anymore. It was hard to tell what they were thinking. Except for Anna she was convinced that she didn't believed a word. The Arc had plenty to do to get his mind from things. With all of the gold he has earned from his quests he finally decided to buy a house. It didn't had to be something big or near the noble's street. He was no noble just a regular a person. Size didn't matter, he just wanted an ordinary house. After gazing hard through the streets of the middle class section, Jaune finally found the perfect home. Good for him that it was also on sale. He met up with the owner and bought him the necessary amount of gold to buy the settlement.
It was just a regular house, with a wooden door and stone. One kitchen, one bathroom, one bedroom and one small dining room. It was enough for Jaune to make it his official home from now on. Once he got adjusted to his new house, he did some cleaning before doing his routine exercises and practice his moves. A hundred push up and a hundred sit ups. It wasn't enough for him with how strong he has gotten. After, he took a warm bath, got dressed in his battle attire and made some food. The blond was ready to head out and see if he can find his companions. The six ladies have become very important. To a pain that he felt like he couldn't live without them. He felt his face heating up, it was the truth he cares that much for them but not to the point that he will have feelings for them. All of them, it sounded crazy. Better not think about that without bringing his hormones, keep those nasty thoughts away.
There was no way he could fall for all of them it doesn't make sense. Damn, he was still thinking about it. But they were all so nice and strong and sexy and hot. The Arc was cursing mentally as his face blushing again. Those bodies of theirs, Sorceress, Amazon, Beastmaster, Anna even Elf she has some nice legs and thighs why do they have perfect bodies that men would fantasize for. Why were his hormones playing with him. Life wasn't all women, boobs and sex. His ears perked hearing a familiar voice not that far. Gazing around the street Jaune spotted a tavern where the voice was coming from. As he entered he saw Anna with a glass of beer next to her, glaring at some muscle head. From the looks of it, seems like this guy was try to hit on her just because he was buffed. The blond knight shook his head whoever is this guy, he was making mistake. You don't hit on someone like a legendary pirate.
"Come on sweet heart you know you want to."
"Are you bloody deaf? I said get lost!"
"You're just playing hard to get. You will change your mind when you're in my strong arms."
"Oh no" Jaune gulped seeing the buff grunt embracing the pirate woman.
"You have five seconds to get off me before I slice off those pretty strong arms of yours" her tone was so deadly, sharp enough to cut through the air.
The Arc immediately interfered and got the grunt from Anna before she could reach her sword. The blond gave her a look that said" don't cut people;s arms or kill them because it's against the law". The pirate shrugged her shoulders and she went to take a sip of her beer. He sighed while the buffed man wasn't happy with his actions. He was very close with getting into this woman's pants.
"Who the hell are you?"
"I'm the guy who just saved your life."
"More like the guy that pissed me off when I was about to have a drink with the lovely lady."
"I said get lost. Won't repeat myself."
"Sounds like she's not interested. You should know when to call it a quits."
"She was interested, before you got in the way."
"Doesn't looked that way to me."
"You're her boyfriend or something?"
"I-"
"Yes" Anna smiled.
"What?!" the Arc turned to her shocked.
"I forgot to tell you I'm not interested because I'm already taken. Now buzz off. I want to spend some time with a real man."
"What are you doing" he whispered to the female pirate.
"Getting him off our backs" she whispered back.
"More like you're looking for trouble."
"I didn't started this, mate."
"A real man, huh? How about you show it. You and me one on one."
"We're not really doing this?" Jaune thought it was a stupid idea.
"Afraid you might lose? Guess you're nothing but a coward."
"You wish. I've seen him fight and killed dozens of monsters twice as big as you. You're only going to embarrass yourself."
"Stop provoking him!" the blond leader panicked at her.
"This will be fun" she grinned.
"What-"
Jaune was interrupted as he dodged a fist from the buffed man. The sight caught the attention of the people in the tavern as they started cheering shouting fight. The blond just sighed, why does Anna has to always do this. And she stood smiling at him while giving the cheers lifting her beer glass. Getting him into trouble. This guy didn't looked like he was going to stop if he tells him. So be it, he will fight him. Good thing Amazon has taught him how to fight with his fists and legs. All those hand to hand combat sparring matches with the Amazonia have really paid off. Even if it was a very painful experience. The grunt threw some quick jabs which he dodged easily, he countered with a punch straight to his stomach and another on his face. The blows were strong enough to make him dizzy. Yeah, this was pretty much over. One more hit will do it. But he never attacked him as the guy fell unconscious. Guess he hit him too hard. The people got annoyed that the fight was too short as they went back to their business.
"Thanks for standing up to me, darling" Anna winked.
"You really have a tendency to get yourself into trouble, don't you?" the Arc got seated next to her.
"It wasn't my fault the guy hit on the wrong person. And I shot him down a couple of times, literally."
"Okay, but you didn't had to include me in it. Saying I'm your boyfriend."
"You don't want to?"
"Anna, you know what I mean" he dismissed the blush on his cheeks.
"You're not planning on drinking with me?"
"Nope."
"More for me. Hit me with another one!" she finished her glass.
The bartender arrived with another glass filled on the top. The female pirated gave him enough gold for ten more drinks. She took a sip savoring it. Hydeland's ale is the best. There was no one else that can replace rival it in the whole world.
"You really think I'm crazy with my story?"
"That's why you came here? Try to convince me you're telling the truth?"
"I did said the truth. Sounds impossible and crazy but I'm here, almost a year now."
"Jaune Arc, the chosen hero of the Goddesses. It has a nice ring to it."
"I'm not the only one. You're all heroes too."
"Here we go again" she took another sip" I'm a pirate mate, not exactly hero material."
"Doesn't matter. I felt the power when we first met. Same power that led me to Amazon, Elf and the others. It was the power of the Goddesses when they gave me their blessings. And I don't deny it we have a long way since we got together as a party."
Anna just kept on drinking ignoring him. Pirate hero doesn't mix. They don't go in the same sentence. In yet, there was another reason why she refused to accept it. He can be stubborn as hell insisting in being honest. But she knew he was telling the truth.
"I don't know how the others took it. But I want to continue traveling with all of you. Doing quests for the guild, helping others, keeping up the good fight. Like we did with the village girls and helping the princess breaking her out of Gustaf's control."
"Like helping a little girl with her cat being on a tall tree? Or helping an old lady carry her groceries?"
"I'm serious. You don't have to believe me, I want you, all of you to still be with me. Let's keep the party. We make a powerful team, we have shown it again and again. Just know that I-"
"Enough" she was starting to get up" I don't want to hear it. I want to enjoy this ale and relax without hearing your nonsense."
"It's not nonsense, it's the truth-"
"I said I DON'T WANT TO HEAR IT!" she snapped.
Jaune stood shocked as the whole tavern grew dead silent. It didn't took long before they went back at it again. The blond stood quiet. Maybe this was a bad idea. Forcing her to believe him. But he didn't wanted to force her. He just wants to remain a member of his party. All of them. That this revelation doesn't break them apart. Whether they believe him or not, he wanted them with him. Anna was truly upset when she found out. In contrast to the others. They didn't looked angry in the slightest more like surprised. Then the female pirate drank another glass and ordered another, and another, and another. Now the blond was getting worried, she was drinking too much. He tried to stop her but she ignored and kept at it. It wasn't that long before she got drunk. The Arc paid the tavern keeper by buying a bottle of ale in order to convince the pirate to leave the place, and he succeeded.
Jaune was helping Anna walked, the woman must have reached her limit in containing her alcohol. It will get dark soon so he will send her to her room at the Dragon's Haven Inn. All of his party members were staying there among other members of the Adventurer's Guild. In her current state she can easily get rape by anyone. Not that the blond didn't trusted the people. But, there were some who were downright perverted and will do anything to get their hands on a defenseless damsel. The blond leader has made various attempt to try and take the bottle of ale from the pirate, but she didn't let him. She would argue mumbling something he couldn't understand. If she keeps drinking she might passed out, or worse. There must be a reason why she was denying he was right. He thought he could bring some sense into her, he was wrong. Nothing could changed her mind specially when she was like this.
"Don't you think you had enough?"
"I'll tell you when I had enough."
"I'm only worried. You shouldn't be drinking so much."
"Thanks for worrying Mr. Chosen Hero…." she was about to tripped but Jaune caught her on time.
"You can barely walk."
"That's why you're here, mate" she started laughing.
The blond sighed helping the pirate" why are you acting like this?"
"Because I drank enough to paint the deck on someone's ship."
"I'm talking about why do you sound upset when I called you a hero?"
"You can't take a hint? I don't want to hear it."
"The others weren't. At least they might come to terms with it or not. But neither of them were upset. You're the only one acting like you want to to deny it that you're willing to go as far as to get yourself drunk."
"I told you I'm no hero…."
"Because you're a pirate?" he didn't believed her reason, it sounded like an excuse.
"That's right, good for you. Pirates aren't heroes. I'm definitely not one."
"Why? And don't give me the same excuse. You're a chosen hero and you're angry about it. Just be honest Anna."
"I'll bloody tell you why! I can't be a hero. Much less one chosen by the Goddesses...Heroes do the right thing and save others putting their lives at risk. Putting the lives of others before their own. I'm not like that...A hero would never let her own crew die…."
That was it. Jaune stood silent. It was never about her being a chosen hero. This was all about her past. It was a weight on her shoulders that she's been carrying for a long time. Looking at her she took another sip from the bottle as she kept her tears from falling. The blond has never brought it up, though he knew how it all happened. After hearing the rumors from those two people at the Dragon's Haven Inn and their recent quest to Ghost Ship Cove. Anna demanding to know where was the Kraken. It was obvious, he should have seen it coming.
"It's been always on my mind...Like a nightmare that will never end."
Anna glared as she and her crew were in deep trouble. How did it happened. They were resting after celebrating. There was at least someone awake keeping watch on the ship for any hostiles. His warning came a little too late as they were suddenly being attacked by a powerful creature. The long tentacles were reaching for the vessel. It has to be the legendary Kraken many sailors and pirates have talked about. It must have been using the Cove as a hideout. The captain wasn't going to let herself get beaten no matter how strong this thing is.
"Fire the cannons!"
"But Captain, we're being overwhelmed. There's too many tentacles, we can barely focus on all of them!"
"I said FIRE THE BLOODY CANNONS!"
Without a word the pirate crew obeyed their captain's orders. Doing their best to prepare the cannons, setting the gunpowder and firing on the tentacles. There were too many of them and some have taken a hold of the ship. If this continues it will be destroy. Anna fired her pistol at some of the tentacles. The fire power wasn't enough to hurt them so she used her sword, while her men were firing the cannons. The Kraken has proven to be a worth adversary. One of the cannons missed it's targets and it hit part of the deck as the ship was now on fire. The pirate woman stood shocked, tremors shook the whole vessel. A bad sign indeed that the ship might not hold any longer.
"Captain! It's too strong we have to abandon ship!"
"Bloody hell no! No one is leaving this ship. If it's going down, then we'll go down with it! We follow the pirate's code until we hit our grave in the sea!"
The pirates knew how this was going to end. At this rate, the ship will last for a couple of minutes and they didn't had time to prepare the cannons again. It will be too late. They all looked at each other. Their captain was really willing to die here with her ship. Always true to the pirate's code.
"Get to the lifeboats!"
"What are you doing?! I said we're going down with this ship!"
"Hurry!"
"Don't you dare ignore my orders!" she pointed her pistol at them" you dare call yourself my men, my crew? You're willing to flee like cowards then follow the bloody damn code?"
"No, that was never our intention. We will follow the code until the end."
Something hit Anna on the back of her head as she hit the ground. She was starting to lose conscious.
"Forgive us Captain. But we can't let you die here. We care too much for you. You've been an inspiration on all of us and this is the best way to show our appreciation. We will fight until we reach the grave in the sea. You on the other hand, you have to keep going. You're strong, you can survive."
"No...What are you…."
"Take her to the life boat!"
"Don't…."
Tears finally emerged the pirate woman while Jaune was in thought. Those images have been invading her head for so long. Her dreams and even when she was awake.
"Everything went black when they put me on the life boat. When I came to I saw my ship The Heart of the Storm sinking by Kraken's tentacles, my men went along with it. They died like real pirates following the code. I didn't, I was still alive."
"They wanted you to live for their sake."
"Don't you get it?! I shouldn't be alive, I was supposed to die back there! With my men, with my ship. An honorable death for any pirates who fought to the very end. Instead those bastards sent me off, disobeying my orders. How dare they, what the hell were they thinking?!"
"They cared about you to see you die so soon. It's not a matter of following the pirate's code, it's a matter of keep going. You don't see it now. But your men chose to sacrificed themselves to save you so you can finish what they started. They wanted you to avenge their deaths. As the captain they believe you can do it."
"But I wanted to die with them! What kind of captain am I without a crew and a ship? I'm no captain at all, let alone a pirate. I'm nothing but a bloody coward and I have to live with it. I don't even have the balls to take my own life because...Because…."
"Because it will bring them shame. You take your life it's over. How will you avenge your crew if you're dead? Listen to me Anna, let's leave the topic that you're a chosen hero aside and focus more on your own task. You know you can't defeat the Kraken on your own that's why you came to me for help. My mind hasn't changed. I will help you, my party will help you. We will find it and kill it for the sake of avenging your crew and all the sailors that have been victims by it. You have my word. After that, you can do whatever you like. If you want to leave and go somewhere far, that's fine by me. I won't oblige you to stay."
"I thought you want me to stay…."
"I do. But I won't make you if you don't really want to. I'm giving everyone else the same choice. If they want to stay or leave the party. Whether they're chosen heroes or not. It's their choice to make while I have made mine to help the Goddesses to protect Hydeland from the start, I'm not gonna make anyone follow me because you're heroes. Anna, be free and live your life without regrets. Live it the way you want to. Even a pirate has a right to live freely."
"Jaune...You…."
She finally broke down as she embraced him. The blond knight hold her tight while taking his chance to snatched the bottle of ale from her. No more drinking for tonight. Her sobs got louder, she's been holding on to this pain, hiding it from everyone. He caressed her hair, she's been acting strong putting a tough front. The shell was finally broken by the Arc's words. They stood there for a couple of minutes until it got late. The female pirate cried herself to sleep. Jaune decided to carry her bridal style all the way to the Dragon's Haven Inn. If his party decided to leave then it will be just him. But the quests will be harder with only him. Hopefully, she won't have a hangover. Who was he kidding with all of the alcohol she drank she was going to be a total wreck. Another reason why Jaune doesn't drink ale, beer or whatever.
The next day, Jaune woke up smiling. Reminding him he was now living in his new house. He did the usual exercise routines before taking a bath, eating some breakfast and putting his battle attire. His thoughts were on Anna. Since she was very drunk he wondered if she remembers anything from their conversation. But anyway today he should find the members of his party and ask them if they want to continue traveling with him or depart and go their separate ways. It was time to face the music and find out if he will still have a party or resume his journey alone. Leaving his house he was surprised to see the members of his party minus Virna. The girl was probably lost in her little own world of greed. Anna was present too though she looked like she has seen better days.
"I was about to look for you guys."
"No need, we're here. I believe we owe you an apology" said Beastmaster.
The Arc didn't know what she was talking about.
"Apologies for not talking to you during these couple of days. Indeed, we were thinking about everything you told us. But don't get the wrong impression. Neither of us are angry."
"We would never get angry with you" said Sorceress.
"I want to still be part of your party" replied Elf.
"So am I" followed Amazon.
"I also would like to remain with you" said the witch.
"It's still hard to believe that we're chosen by the Goddesses. But not for me" said the dark elf" I realized this is the real reason I wanted to join you Jaune. Deep down I had a feeling I was meant to serve a greater purpose. And if it is to protect Hydeland from any danger with you then, so beat it."
The blond knight smiled at the ladies, all smiling at him. Looks like there was still a party after all. His eyes were on the female pirate.
"Anna?"
"I will stick around because we still have to kill the Kraken. Don't think I haven't forgotten. You did promised you will help me. After that, I don't know. But for now, I'm still coming with you mate."
"Thank you. Thank you all" he was about to teared up.
"We also came here to let you know Samuel wants to see you" said Sorceress.
"I'm hoping it's a quest. I've been itching for some fighting" said Amazon.
More than happy Jaune and his party went to the guild building looking for the Guild Master. The man clad in armor saw them and quickly told the Arc the reason he wanted to see him. Lucain had a request for him. Telling him to visit him. So this new quest was requested by the old magician. And the form was mentioning rune magic. The blond knight already knew about it since the magician taught him how to cast it. And he even bought additional rune stones. The party accepted the request as the left the guild heading to the tower of the old magician. When they climbed the stair case leading to the door Jaune gave a knock as it was opened revealing Lucain. He was so glad kindly letting the group inside. They saw Rickey his new apprentice by his lab equipment but there was no sign of Tiki. Probably wandering off somewhere. She better not get into trouble.
"So this is about the request I sent to the guild?"
"Yeah, I know about rune magic. So what's this request about?"
"Straight to the point, very well. Certain Elician ruins are highly regarded as sacred areas by monks. Unfortunately, monsters are desecrating these ruins. Monks were dispatched to purify the area, but the golems that use to protect the ruins have turned on the monks."
"Golems?" spoke the Arc.
"They are creature made of stone. They're controlled by rune magic" explained Sorceress.
"Right. I got a letter from one of the monks asking me to craft new golems with runes, to pit against the old golem."
"And you want us to go in your place?" Jaune nodded.
"Apologies but in my current condition I will be nothing but a liability. The monks needs someone strong and reliable to aid them against the monsters protecting the ruins."
"Don't worry, we'll do it."
"There's a golem in the ruins you need to activate. Activate the two runes on the statue, then add the stone's rune to cast the three-letter spell that animates it. The ruins is in the Forgotten Sanctuary. The coordinates are already written on the letter the monks sent me" he handed the party leader the letter.
"Got it. We'll tell Samuel so he can call the gatekeeper to prepare the magic gate."
"Thank you. I am in your debt" the old man smiled.
"All right everyone. Make sure to prepare your gear while I go to the guild. Also, please someone find Virna. She is part of this party so we need her."
The group nodded as they climbed down the stair case.
"Forgotten Sanctuary?" the blond knight kept gazing at the monks letter.
To be continued
-Boom here you go the first chapter of the new year is here and on my birthday.
-Yeah Anna is the most angsty of the group because what her crew did to her before they got killed by the Kraken. Her honor and pride as a pirate was crushed on that tragic day. She hide her intentions through a facade, trying to forget those memories but it was impossible to do so.
-Replying to reviews:
*TheEmeraldMage- thank you for always supporting my stories. Yeah I like all those VA's they will make the story more interesting.
*Abyss Trinity- thank you have a happy new year too. Yeah I love that art of the genie surrounded by all of those cuties which their attires were barely leaving anything for the imagination lol.
*calderoneric758- hmm...Not bad I'll see what I can do since the party will eventually return to Ghost Ship Cove when they face the Kraken.
*Saint Saber Fang- yep this chapter is the big reveal and yeah Pryce voiced Kirito among many other good characters in anime and games.
*Bisaster- thank you for now they will remain being call by their classes but maybe I will give them actual names before the end of the story thanks. I have already explained why I no longer accept Beta's. As for your other review don't worry Jaune will eventually get his chance with the girls. He's someone with morals and he has grown close with his party. Getting laid is the last thing on his mind.
*Ruberforumfree maybe before reaching the end. As for your other review I know I mean this is the ONLY crossover with RWBY. I hope this story gets to inspire other authors to start writing more crossovers with Dragon's Crown it's a great game. And I know the plot is short but that's why I have decided to add villains to make it a little longer and expand the world.
*ASTARTE don't know but like I always say you never know what the future has in store.
*RustKnight there always have to be an annoying character in anime and games. It can't be help. But don't worry I have plans for Rickey and other characters that have rarely appear in the story.
-Just a heads up tomorrow evening I will be releasing the next chapter of the Journey to Redemption. Almost to the end of v6 but it will be one to remember.
-As always thank you very much for the favs, follows and reviews I really appreciate it.
Next time: The Forgotten Sanctuary