Arc II: The Knight Life
Chapter 17: The Knight Life
Beacon Academy lay quietly still under predawn, starlit skies, the horizon beginning to glow with a particularly warm shade of orange. A crisp breeze blew lightly through the campus, not too chilly but just enough to make wearing a sweater convincing. Faint chirps trilled throughout the campus from one or two early birds, seeking to get their worm with a joke that would've made Yang undeniably happy.
Such good cheer would not last forever - if at all, as Teams RWBY and JNPR half stood, half shivered and closely huddled in front of a pair of Bullheads. Ren found himself standing still and ramrod straight, his mind long retreated to comfier thoughts. He couldn't help but note the various sleepy looks amongst the others, however; Nora was leaning on Magnhild with a terrific zombie impression while Pyrrha fought to keep her eyes open. Jaune looked the most alert out of all of them, probably because tiredness seemed little in the face of impending death-by-airsickness.
At least their sister team was wide awake, though that may have had something to do with the fact that Professor - sorry, Doctor Oobleck just finished briefing them and ran off to their Bullhead at a speed that put Ruby's Semblance to shame.
Yang groaned, planting an arm and leaning on her partner's shoulder. "It's not yet bright and so very early. What time is it again?"
Blake checked her scroll and momentarily winced at the brightness of the screen before toning it down. "Four fifty-three."
The eight of them collectively sighed.
"Ugh. It's not even dawn and the earliest we've ever been up at Signal was for a camping trip at, like, six."
"Knowing you, I'm honestly quite impressed we were able to wake you up considering it's not even noon."
The blonde weakly threw an arm in Weiss' direction. "Oh shut it, you. Why are we doing this again?"
"Because we are embarking on a mission," Weiss replied, completely missing the sarcasm in her tired state. "We should at least be able to get some rest during the flight to Mountain Glenn. With the Kanalet Mountains it's at least an hour or two to fly across. If anything, by the time we land the sun should already be up."
"Ah. I see you are a person of culture," Ren idly noted. Now that she mentioned it, he wondered just how fast he'd fall back asleep once on the Bullhead. Maybe they could unpack their sleeping gear and snooze off in comfortable warmth? He yawned, though a small smile also threatened to come out at such a pleasant thought.
"Oh sweet, then we can have breakfast once we're there!"
He instinctively adjusted his rucksack, filled with several days' worth of food, clothing and dust. Since being assigned their mission a couple of weeks ago, the amount of schoolwork lessened - at least the theoretical based lessons - in favour of increased, mandated sparring between teams and each other. The remainder focused more on the essentials of fieldcraft and other practicals, no doubt meant to help them rough it out in the wilds beyonds the kingdom. Conservative use of supplies and packing smart were of utmost importance, with his team and RWBY having gone to Vale several days prior to stock up extra snacks and other necessities beyond the basics issued by Beacon.
Of course, the cooking utensils and pancake mix amongst other non-ration non-perishables had to be in his bag. After being offered a sample by Nora, Jaune clamored just as loudly, though Pyrrha was less animated and also on board with the idea of having a little taste of home. Though he'd never admit it out loud, knowing Jaune and Pyrrha liked his cooking as well sent a small, pleased feeling coursing through his heart, enough to keep him warm for the moment.
Speaking of getting ahead, he turned with the rest at the sound of several others approaching; Ozpin and Glynda Goodwitch led the small oncoming party, followed by who he recalled as Penny - one of Ruby's friends - alongside a pretty young woman who greatly resembled Weiss and a gruff, lanky man who looked just as tired as they were.
"Winter!" the heiress yelled in surprise with a wide smile of uncharacteristic delight, all traces of fatigue gone as she dashed forward to meet her sister. "I'm so happy to see you! How are you doing? What business do you have here? And how long are you staying - oh, um. Ahem," she suddenly stopped and composed herself as Winter raised an eyebrow, trying and failing to wipe the happiness evident on her face. Your presence honours us."
"Well. Classified and classified."
"Okay, well you're going to love it here! I know you travel a lot, but so much of Beacon is different from Atlas! The government and school are completely separate! Can you believe it!?"
"I'm more than familiar with how this kingdom handles its bureaucracy. That is not why I came. I have also come to ensure the...welfare of my family."
"Oh, right," Weiss replied, taking the hint and mellowing in composure.
To her credit, Winter relaxed her stern expression the slightest bit, though her posture was perfectly rigid. "I'm asking how you've been, Weiss. Are you eating properly? Have you taken up any hobbies? Are you making new friends?"
"Yes, Winter. Those four are Team JNPR, and with me here is Blake, Yang and my partner, Ruby. Everyone, this is my sister. She is a huntsman and member of Atlas' special forces," Weiss returned with a smaller, gentler smile, pointing a thumb to her aforementioned members respectively gave back a nod, salute and little wave.
Winter glanced around to them all before settling on her partner. "I see. So this is the leader you wrote of. How appropriately...underwhelming."
Ruby stood with a smile and polite silence that quickly disappeared the moment she realized that Winter's full attention was focused on her. "Oh! Uh...thank you?"
"Hmm. Greetings, Ruby Rose. I trust you will look after my sister in the field."
At that, she stood a little taller and with more confidence. "Weiss is my partner. I won't let her down."
The specialist regarded her with narrowed eyes for several seconds before giving a subtle nod, only to be interrupted with an indignant and unladylike squawk as the man behind her pushed past with eyes dancing with mischief. "Oh my Gods, this isn't an inspection on one of Jimmy's obnoxious parades. Care to...chill, Ice Queen?"
This time, it was a different set of sisters which rushed forward to engulf the man with love. Weiss held back Winter from punching him, Yang smirked and gave finger guns in tribute to his terrible sense of humour while he stumbled back with a practiced motion to take full force the oncoming Ruby shaped projectile.
"Hey, old man! Long time no see!"
"Uncle Qroooowwww!"
Said uncle grinned, content to let Ruby hang off his outstretched arm while he gave the blonde a quick hug with the other.
"What's goin' on. Bright and early for your first mission, eh? Good to see both you kiddos."
"Ahh, it's so good to see you too!" Ruby exclaimed, "Did you miss me? Did you miss me!?"
Two long, full seconds of silence passed as he stared into her silver eyes with an impassive expression before breaking out into a shit eating grin and affectionately rubbing her head. "Nope."
Ren watched Ruby grin back and hop off, only to be glomped back by an equally happy Penny. He couldn't help but let a small, contented expression settle on his face; despite being polar opposites in temperament, there was something about having family see you off that was undoubtedly touching - on a milestone, no less. It was enough to help him push past the creeping memories of a destroyed Mistrali village and scared ginger girl desperately clinging to him for safety.
A groan of disgust shook him from his thoughts, however, as Winter glowered at the sight of Qrow taking a swig from a flask.
"Really? At this hour?"
"Hey, gotta start the day off right, Ice Queen. Don't they teach that in your handbook or whatever?"
"The Atlesian military does not recommend alcoholism as a nutritional plan. Despite what some of the soldiers otherwise seem to think," Winter sighed, looking away in disgust and whispering the last bit. "But then again, you were never one for the rules anyway, were you?"
"I prefer to be called a 'dashing rogue' myself. You know, full of mystery, action and all that charm that makes you curious for more," he replied, winking at the specialist and earning another glare.
"Qrow...are you drunk?"
"He's always drunk," Glynda cut in, earning Winter's attention and sharing a look of what could only be called camaraderie forged in the fires of life and death situations. They further cringed as they watched him gulp down another swig.
"Whatever concern you withhold from your liver, do spare some for their sanity and mine," Ozpin sighed. "Good morning, students. I trust you all packed your things and had a good night's rest?"
He joined in the mass nodding of heads amongst their teams. "Excellent. I shall be brief, then. As you are all aware, you each are about to set out on your very first mission. Keep in mind that this is no mere field trip or walk in the park; this here is but a glimpse of the path each of you have chosen to walk on," Ozpin intoned, taking out a thermos of coffee and taking a sip. "How you choose to fulfill your objectives is your choice, and you will be graded on both your success and strategies in solving any obstacles that arise. Most importantly, however, remember your conduct, as public perception reflects on you as students and on Beacon as a whole. Remember your training and follow any orders from the huntsman in charge."
Glynda Goodwitch stepped up beside him. "You will also each receive further briefings in addition to the details sent to your scrolls as you depart. Unless you already have been...?"
"Pro - ah, Doctor Oobleck already briefed us. Very quickly anyway," Ruby affirmed, glancing to their Bullhead behind them.
The deputy nodded. "I see. And Team JNPR?"
"Um, it said that our huntsman would be assigned to us the day we leave," Jaune piped up, glancing at his scroll. At that, Ozpin looked to Qrow, who sauntered over to them amidst a chorus of protests from Yang and Ruby.
"Come on! No fair!"
"You're a traitor. Traitor, I say!"
"Sorry kiddos," the huntsman shrugged, though he had the grace to look a little guilty. "This one's above my pay grade. Don't worry. One day."
Ozpin coughed and pointedly ignored the looks of betrayal from his nieces. "In any case, we bid you good luck. Stay safe and look after one another. Make us proud."
Ren turned with his team towards their Bullhead, taking a moment to wave at RWBY as they headed for a different landing pad. Piling in through a side door, he dropped his ruck and took a seat beside Nora; Qrow was the last to enter, taking a moment to loudly yawn and close the door behind him. Tossing his pack to the back of the aircraft, he signaled the pilot to start up and plunked down next to Jaune.
"You guys ready for your first grand adventure into the unknown?"
"Are we!?" Nora replied excitedly with a slightly raspy morning voice, pumping her arms. She looked and leaned against his shoulder with a grin, egging him on until he caved. Sighing, he weakly threw a fist in the air and cheered.
"I look forward to what our mission entails, Mr Qrow," Pyrrha came to his aid. "Although I'm curious as to what exactly other details Professor Goodwitch mentioned we'd be told about."
"Heh. I like your spirit. And don't sweat it, there's not much extra you need to know. Be good little kids, do your job well and all that," he waved her off. "What exactly did they tell you?"
"You mean you don't know what we're supposed to be doing?" Nora raised a suspicious eyebrow, which grew higher as the huntsman merely shrugged.
Ren fished out his scroll and thumbed through the mission file. "According to this, a team of archaeologists were supposed to study newly discovered ruins in the Akkala Forest. They went to scout it but a large pack of Grimm prevented them from checking more thoroughly. We're to search and destroy the pack, then secure the site for further study," he read off the details, looking up to see Qrow with a bemused expression.
"Huh. Alright, Oz, good enough, I guess..."
"Sir?"
Qrow looked back up, shaking his head. "Wha -? Don't call me that. That makes me feel like I'm twice my age. Mr Qrow or Mr Branwen works just fine," he replied, dodging the implied question. "Anyways, yeah, basically that. We're flying southeast for an hour or two before landing by one of the frontier villages close to the forest. We'll get a room for the night, eat up and then you guys go nuts. For now, feel free to rack out. Or not. I'm not your team leader. Speaking of which -"
"Jaune, are you okay?" Pyrrha loomed over the slightly hunched blonde, who had been silent up to this point so as to not trigger his gag reflex. Having prepared in advance, he withdrew a small paper bag from a side pocket of his ruck and tossed to him.
Qrow looked on in concern from a safe foot or so away. "There something I should know about...?"
"Let's just say we're in for the long haul," he sighed, reaching into the same pocket for a small can of air freshener. "Can we tell the pilot to fly faster?"
Their team leader evidently agreed as his eyes began to water, doubling over and sticking his face into the brown paper bag.
"Hrk..."
()===|=====+
Jaune took a gulp of water from his canteen as he sat on a rock, watching the Bullhead fly away. Winded from the ride, he had staggered out and almost fell face first onto the dirt path; upon taking his first breath outside he collapsed to his knees, nearly crying at the scent of fresh, untainted oxygen.
"Oh, thank the Brothers. I can breathe again. That was even worse than when I flew to Vale from home."
Qrow seemed to agree, laying flat on his back with, for once, a bottle of water instead of his usual flask. "Kid, is that your Semblance? That's gotta be your Semblance. Seriously, what the hell was that?"
"Something that you can never get fully used to," Ren quipped, standing from underneath the shade of a tree and pulling Nora up with him. A thoughtful look immediately then crossed his mind. "Although now that you mention it, if it can take out a full fledged huntsman maybe we can use it against the Grimm as well."
"I don't think I'd even get past the testing stage," Jaune replied, shooting the black haired boy a flat look. "That, and if we want to have any chance of being welcomed into town."
The five of them looked down the path towards their destination; much like what Qrow mentioned it was nothing more than a small town, a beacon of civilization in an expanse of wilderness nominally claimed by Vale. In fact, it was more akin to a lightly fortified village; a fair way down the hill they were on did the settlement lay, protected by a wooden palisade.
Now that the sun was up, however, perhaps what was most impressive was the largest expanse of forest they'd ever seen behind the town. It contrasted heavily with the path behind them, the road leading away from the town into various pastures, streams and smaller patches of woods. Instead, their route led them towards what was most likely the last repose before trekking into unfamiliar territory.
In other words, it was a beautiful sight.
"It's so pretty!" Nora agreed, taking a few pictures with her own scroll. "Ren, do you think when this is all over we can have a picnic here? Or maybe build a house here when we retire? The scenery is amazing!"
"I'm sure we'll have plenty of time out there soon," Pyrrha laughed, hefting her pack and securing her weapons.
"Heh. She has a point. But yeah, it looks nice, eh?" he smiled back to both of them. "Come on, let's go see what's up."
Grabbing their belongings they trekked down the slope, coming to the gates of the town. As they drew closer, however, Jaune couldn't help but notice the occasionally damaged palisade or how the gate guard, armed with nothing more than a simple spear appraised them with an eye that he recognized as sizing them as potential threats. A small reminder, perhaps, but one just enough to keep him grounded to Ozpin's words that this was more than just a walk in the forest.
"Morning," the guard grunted, a rough voice matching his dour expression. "What business have you in our village?"
Jaune stepped up and met his gaze. "We've come from Beacon. We're here about some archaeologists that went missing some time ago."
The guard raised an eyebrow, slightly tightening his grip on the shaft. "Archaeologists? Never heard about any comin' 'round recently..."
Qrow pushed past to stand besides Jaune. "That pack of Grimm wandering around close by the forest? Yeah, we're here for that. We're huntsmen."
"Hey, I remember you. Didn't you come by a while back during the Carnival of Ti -"
They watched with vague suspicion as he immediately leaned in to whisper in the guard's ear before withdrawing a small wad of lien and discreetly slipping it into the man's pockets.
Qrow stepped back as he chuckled, opening a door built to the side of the main gate. "Heh. Well, I'm sure you know your way around. At least the boys'll enjoy an extra drink or two. Welcome to Tarmin."
Jaune followed Qrow through the door, taking in the sight around them; the centre of the town was an empty, open patch of grass and dirt presumably for public gatherings as evidenced by a podium underneath a small clock tower. What looked like various vendors and market stalls were increasingly filling with activity to their left against a backdrop of warehouses and barns; some children and dogs ran around playing freely, while other adults worked in little backyard farms and chicken coops.
"Huh. At least the place looks happy enough. Almost reminds me of back home."
That may be, but do not always take things at face value. And do be cautious as you complete your mission around Qrow. He may try to slip any information about you to Ozpin.
He turned to see Qrow eyeballing a pretty young lady walking by, who in turn huffed and looked away.
"Heh. She wants me."
"Yeah. Maybe I'll be safe if I try to lose him in a crowd of women."
"Welp, are any of you kids hungry?"
His hand shot up alongside the others.
"Thought so. This way."
They went east down a short dirt path into which was presumably a residential area if the various log cabins were any sign. At the centre of it all was a much larger and ornate one with a side building from which Jaune could see various rows of sparsely filled tables and benches. Plunking by the window, they were quickly approached by a waitress with dark red hair and fair blue eyes.
"Welcome to the Stock Pot Inn! My name is Anju. Anything I can get for drinks?"
Qrow raised his hand. "Yeah, just get us some water. We'll also be taking a room for the night upstairs."
Anju laid some menus down and rushed off to the bar where a larger man who reminded him of a younger Professor Port cleaned some glasses and eyed them curiously.
"Alright, blondie. Whaddya think?"
Jaune quickly rifled through one. "I think I'll take the sausage and eggs."
He heard Pyrrha and Nora snort as Qrow slapped a hand to his face. "I mean about the mission."
"Oh! Ah, sorry. Um, well, we are staying here overnight, right? I was thinking that maybe we could go around town and ask for information first. Anything about the surrounding area, the forest and Grimm sightings, you know."
Qrow grunted, quickly thanking the waitress for bringing the drinks and telling her to come back in a couple of minutes. "And how're you gonna do that?"
"Well, since there's four of us I guess we should split up to cover more ground. What do you guys think?"
Nora piped up, looking at her partner. "Ooh, me and Ren'll take the markets! Traders always talk about things they see on the road. Plus they probably have some cool stuff to sell!"
Qrow raised an eyebrow. "Huh. You've been out doing this before?"
Ren shrugged back. "Nora and I travelled together to Beacon from Mistral. You're bound to pick up a few things."
"Okay sweet," Jaune cut in before he could ask anymore questions. "Pyrrha, wanna do this side of town, then?"
"Sure. If I may ask, Mr Branwen, is there anything more to this side of town than just houses and the inn? Maybe some sort of library or mayoral office?"
"Mainly just houses," Qrow shrugged. "I doubt people would want you barging into their homes but the building beside this is the town guild. Village officials, CCT and all that. You'd probably want to check that out."
"And there we have it. If anything, we might even be done by lunch."
"Sounds good," came out instead. "We'll drop off our stuff in our room before heading out. What'll you be doing?"
The huntsman made to reply but it was at that moment Anju came back with pen and notepad in hand, ready to take their orders. As if on cue, his stomach rumbled loudly, all attention being drawn back to him and instead of asking Qrow to explain he chuckled and scratched the back of his head.
"Looks like I'll be taking those sausage and eggs now..."
()===|=====+
Ren sighed for what felt like the hundredth time as the merchant tried in vain to sell him some sort of mask shaped like a yellow fox. It was apparently one of many used in a celebration several weeks ago, and though he admittedly found himself interested, he schooled his expression to show no interest and instead politely, though firmly declined before he could be haggled any further. Truth be told, most of the vendors were like this; after a few questions of asking around, it turned out since traffic died down from other villages after the festival, they were left with an abundance of supply but with no demand to meet it.
Making his way down an aisle, he politely declined another merchant who called out from his stall before linking back up with Nora, engaged in an animated discussion with the one in front of her.
"Find anything?"
"So many!" Nora crowed, holding up what looked to be an iron talon attached to some sort of grip and trigger. "Apparently this is called a hookshot. Kids use them all the time to grab things from far away!"
"Right you are, missy!" the blue shirted, red vested and balding salesman replied. "Fine things, they are! Though if you want..."
He reached from underneath and withdrew an even larger one the size of both his hands. "This here's for the adults 'round here! Mighty helpful when doing all sorts of construction work and such. Seeing as you two fellas as young hunters, yes, maybe you can even surprise your enemy and pull them towards you!"
"Nora, I don't think -"
Two hundred lien slammed down on the counter, to which the merchant gleefully accepted and handed the interesting looking tool over. "Thank you kindly! See, I knew you hunter types ain't all so bad."
Nora smiled and stashed the device away. "Well, hey, I can't speak for everyone but some of us just want to help out and do our part, you know?"
"Aye. I've met my fair share of huntsmen shortchanging and holding others to ransom out there, but can't blame ya either. Both of youse got that look in your eye. Never would let a person down," he replied, his smile becoming more genial. "My uncle's cousin's nephew had that same look when he left home for Beacon a while back too. Guess you fellers just remind me of him. Tell you what, because you touched this old man's heart..."
He reached underneath once more and handed them a small coil of chain. "For replacing the hookshot's chain if it ever gets damaged. All I ask is you keep those Grimm out and keep all our families safe as payment."
"Ahh! Will do. Thank you so much!"
The man smiled. "Aye. I know y'all can take care of yourselves, but that forest ain't no place for jokes. There's foul demons and other goblins out there. More than just Grimm and probably worse. That's why no one ever wants to enter and instead take the extra effort to go over or around. Stay safe out there!"
Waving back, he followed Nora as they exited the market, sitting down on the patch of grass by the centre of town. "Well. That was probably the most useful thing we've gotten so far. Guess you haven't gotten rusty at negotiating at all, too."
"Hmm!" Nora agreed, examining the hookshot in earnest. "Sometimes you just gotta find out the right words to say. But how about you? Did you find anything?"
"Those that weren't as...generous as him," he replied, lying back on the grass and Nora following suit. "If they weren't selling, they either brushed me off or just said to stay away from the woods."
His partner gave a small, concerned smile, turning to her side and laying a hand on his shoulder. "Ren, is this about your -"
"No...no, don't worry about it," Ren smiled back. "If anything, this is why you negotiate. I merely listen and look out for the interesting things."
Nora grinned and booped his nose. "And what did you find, mister?"
"That most of them don't like us," he drawled, earning a small, almost vaguely disappointing sounding chuckle. "The village isn't too trusting of huntsmen, which makes sense for a frontier settlement. That and the fact that they all seemed more wary of the forest than normal."
Nora sat up and stretched. "Well, there is a lot of Grimm out there. Knowing how no one ever really lives in Akkala Forest too makes it all the more mysterious."
"Perhaps so," he sighed. "I can only wonder how Jaune and Pyrrha are doing now."
()===|=====+
"Oh, no, no, you don't understand. We're not here to -"
"Bah! That's what they all say," the village mayor scoffed from behind his desk. "Kill some Grimm, to be sure, then try to extort the poor townsfolk barely scratching out a living -"
"Mayor Mutoh, I -"
"- and then we'll be left with no means to support ourselves because you robbed us blind! How can we pay for another when the Grimm, or Brothers forbid those goblins from the woods come and the militia are overrun!? My carpenters are still repairing the walls from last week's attack! Kingdom's finest, are you?"
"Yeah, well they were either drunk or fucking off because we saw none of them there when we came. Some mayor you turned out to be!"
Anger began to surge within Jaune's heart but Pyrrha gently placed an arm on his, trusting to put her own PR skills to use. "Mayor Mutoh, I understand that you are genuinely worried about the safety of your people. Please rest assured that we have no intentions of taking advantage of your hospitality; any supplies we need will be purchased with lien. We have no desire of getting in your way too - only that we can learn more about the environment we'll be stepping into. Or bar that, the right direction to do so."
Mutoh's critical gaze swept to her, and Jaune watched her calmly meet it head on politely but firmly. After several seconds, the man's eyes glanced to his militia captain beside him, sharing a quick look before sighing in exasperation.
"Innocent, naive...bah, sod off. I suppose I can let you stay within the village for tonight, as you said. You still can't access the archives, however. If you want to earn our trust, then there's work to be done," he replied, waving an arm.
Jaune and Pyrrha shared a look. "What kind of work?"
"All sorts," he snorted and leaned back on his chair. "Walk around and ask the townsfolk if they need things done. Otherwise, the good captain here will tell you the rest that you need to know. If that's all, then go. Do your huntsman business and leave. Viscen?"
Said captain grunted, a tall and stout bear faunus with a simple iron chestplate, spear and hunting knife. Without a word they followed him outside, traveling a fair distance towards a gated exit. Signalling the sentries to let them through, they stood by the wall and stared at the disheveled dirt pathway that led down a slight slope, past an equally disheveled wooden bridge and into the thick of the bush.
"There's your forest," Captain Viscen gestured with his spear. "Miles and miles of trees, Grimm and more trees. Also, monsters of the non-Grimm kind. Oh, and did I say trees?"
Jaune nodded and shrugged. "I...uh...yeah. Lots of bad stuff out there."
Viscen grunted back. "Yeah. Look, kids, plain and simple. Much of an ass Mutoh may be, fat bastard's got a point. Huntsmen aren't taken too kindly around here, so you kids best lay low and cause no trouble."
"Forgive me, but...I don't see why," Pyrrha admitted, turning to face him. "I do not claim to be idealistic, but huntsmen are supposed to protect people, correct? Do some really take advantage of certain situations?"
"Correct. Save 'em from the Grimm, only to be devoured by poverty so that they can't pay another one when the next wave comes. Or by other huntsmen as well when they extort pay, or loot homes - nope. Not getting into that right now," he growled, taking a swig from a flask in a manner resembling Qrow. "Bottom line is, many of your lot are like knights from the olden times, looking all noble and prettied up, but in the end some are crueler than Grimm. Most we do is guard the townsfolk who fell the trees at the edge - not fight trained huntsmen. The people of this village - human and faunus - live peacefully without trouble because we know there are worse things to worry about. We take care of our own. Now, I can tell that none of you have that hard heart so I'll cut you some slack."
He pointed back towards the forest. "Akkala Forest is dangerous and wild. That dirt path you see down there eventually ends at a crossroads. Don't know about whatever gravedigger stuff y'all have to find but the ruins you speak of are most likely on the path goin' right," Viscen interrupted before grabbing his spear and beginning to head back. "Going left takes you out to more farm country, but anyone who goes right never returns. Further you head in, you start to feel all dizzy and disoriented. So you guys be careful and do your thing, just stay outta trouble while you're here."
Watching him leave, he sat back down on the grass beside the path, overlooking the vast forest tomorrow. "That went well enough."
"It could've been worse, I suppose," Pyrrha admitted, taking a seat beside him. "It's still painful to hear, though."
Jaune looked to her. "Yeah. I mean I guess it's a bit naive to expect everything's peachy out here, but to really hear that some huntsmen stoop down to that level's kinda sickening. Makes sense why they don't trust us outside the city."
She crossed her legs. "At least they're kind enough to offer us a chance to earn it. If this is the general consensus amongst other villages then I assume they wouldn't be as kind. That and how Captain Viscen helped us as well."
Hearing a pair of footsteps behind them, they turned around to find their other teammates catching up.
"Hey! You guys find anything?"
Ren silently turned to Nora, who immediately flashed a grin and withdrew her hookshot. Jaune made to ask her what it was, but with a metallic clang it immediately shot out, catching the grip of Crocea Mors and essentially stealing it from its sheath.
"Wha - hey!"
"Cool, isn't it?" Ren sighed with a subtle smile as the ginger girl raised it in the air and cheered like a victorious conqueror. "Got it from the market. Apparently this is an adult version of the children's toy meant to help with various handyman type jobs."
Pyrrha giggled as Jaune took his sword back from a smug looking Nora. "Some toys these kids have. Any information about the forest or the ruins, though?"
"Avoid it at all costs," Nora replied. "The trader we were talking to mentioned that there was more than just Grimm in the forest. Nothing about the ruins, and no one else would help when we asked."
"Then it really just leaves us the archives," Jaune sighed, running a hand through the back of his head. "The captain of the guards told us essentially the same, while the mayor's refusing to let us see the town records. At least for now."
Ren raised an eyebrow. "In exchange for...?"
"Cheap manual labour," Pyrrha supplied. "The mayor said we had to earn trust by helping out the townsfolk with whatever they need, and then he'll let us into the archives after."
"I suppose that makes sense," he replied, rubbing his chin.
"Seems getting into their good books is the only choice we've got," Jaune agreed. "Well, we are staying for the night so we have time."
His stomach rumbled loudly, eliciting a sigh and forcing him to check his scroll. "And it's also noon. We can let Qrow know what's up, eat lunch and spend the afternoon helping around. Does that work for you guys?"
"Sounds good to me."
"Sure."
"Okay, fearless leader!"
With a nod, Jaune and the others began walking back to the tavern. For their first mission, it seemed to be going smoothly; despite an uncomfortable journey on the way to Tarmin, things were relatively straightforward. Sure, some extra workload on top of their original mission to get more of the information they needed, but plans didn't always survive once set in motion, much less against an enemy. A part of him wondered if much of the simplicity came from how this was meant for first years; then again, it'd make sense that they wouldn't throw freshmen on fourth year missions where they might as well be full on huntsmen.
"Hey Link, was it always like this when you were the Hero as well?"
All the time, his mentor grunted. Not so much in my original life, but in every reincarnation after. It has always been part of the adventure, as you also get to accomplish other things along the way.
"Huh. Anything memorable?"
Each life was unique, though I assume it is because we lack the other half of Courage that I can only remember the others as if distant memories. But you are not the first incarnation to have smaller tasks within the overall quest. In the life where I sailed the open seas, I collected figurines to help keep my mind occupied on break.
"Never pegged you for a collector."
He had the vague image that Link was rubbing his mental chin. "If I was still alive and had everything I collected throughout reincarnations I could open perhaps a museum or curiosity shop to sell them. In fact, devices like the hookshot Nora bought existed in past lives as well."
"Huh. Well, food for thought," Jaune said under his breath as he opened the door to the inn.
()===|=====+
"That. Was. So. Good!" Jaune cried as he finished what was once a sixteen ounce medium rare sirloin, topped with homemade béarnaise sauce and a side of mashed potatoes. Qrow watched with amusement how the others had quickly wolfed down their dinners, and at just the right time the server came by to take their plates and drop off his latest order: a tankard of Valean Moon straight from draught. He smiled at how even the remotest places in the kingdom had access to the good stuff.
"Ahh, that hits the spot. You sure know the quickest way to a man's heart."
Anju chuckled. "Thanks. You should never skimp on quality. Knowing your job, I'm sure it helps to have a little taste of home wherever you go."
"Heh, you got that right. What's to say I can't have a good impression of this place too?"
Her smile turned the slightest bit flirtatious to match his own. "Oh, I don't know. Being a huntsman and all, I'm sure you've found more interesting things around than someplace boring like here. That," she leaned down to whisper in his ear, "and the fact that someone else already...planted their flag."
Qrow's eyes went wide and held his hands up. "O-oh. Uh, sorry. I didn't mean to -"
"Haha! Don't worry. He is still my fiancé after all, and is very much a keeper. Nice try though! Just bad luck on your part," she winked, holding up a ringless hand before taking their empty plates. "If it's any consolation, father and I heard how you all were helping people around despite how much the locals distrust huntsmen. Consider all your drinks on the house as thanks."
He managed a smile and nodded in thanks as she walked away, putting his face in his hands.
"Ugh. More than you realize. More than you realize..."
Nora sympathetically placed a hand on his shoulder. "Don't worry, Mr Qrow. I know how it feels. I'm sure you won't be a bachelor forever. The right person will notice you eventually," she remarked, shooting an evil look towards Ren who took it with nothing more than a raised eyebrow.
"And now it has to be kids twice as young as me that come in my hour of need...where hast thou gone, oh pride and confidence?"
Qrow raised his head up and took a gulp of cold beer. "Ahem. Anyway, let's worry about what you kids got. Was all that work worth it?"
Jaune groaned as he stretched. "I feel like my arms are gonna fall off. It was so hot, and the construction workers were doing jack all! Took me and the few good ones forever to finish the work for today!"
"Oh...yes. Quite. What a sight...to...see..." Pyrrha whispered under her breath as her face turned an interesting shade of red, as if remembering a very tantalizing memory. "Um, yes. The guards we trained with the captain improved quite a bit by the end."
"And the cakes were so good!" Nora cheered. "Some of the bakers needed help carrying supplies and stuff. We made all sorts of treats - it was so fun! A lot of them were those really sweet old granny types, too!"
Qrow turned to the last man on the team, who merely sighed while Nora cackled all the more.
"Heh...bunny ears...so cute..."
"Okay, fair enough. And did they let you into the archives?"
Their faces turned a little bit more serious, each of them instinctively leaning in despite the fact that they sat at the back of the inn - the very back, at the same table he sat when staking out Arthur and Tyrian - amidst a busy, noisy dining hall. Only an odd looking man sat in the same area a table or two down, and despite his purple outfit and the rather sizable pack beside his table he seemed to be minding his own business.
"Yes. What was helpful lacked specifics," Ren admitted with a frown. "But there was enough. Some accounts from those who tried to enter the forest reported a general sense of disorientation, and a few got lost fairly easily. This goes all the way back even to the time of the Great War eighty years ago."
"Ah, so Viscen was telling the truth."
Ren nodded at Jaune. "Here's where it gets more interesting. A hundred years ago, the last king of Vale commissioned an expedition, part of which consisted of people from this village, and only one or two survived. Before they died, they mentioned seeing ruins along the way, almost completely unrecognizable from both decay and their...uniqueness in origin."
Qrow raised an eyebrow, a sinking feeling burrowing itself further in his gut. "Did they describe what it looked like?"
"Only that it wasn't Valean. If I had to speculate, maybe they were of the kingdoms prior? Perhaps Calatian or Akkalan. After all, the forest was named for them."
Jaune chuckled. "Heh. Maybe we'll get to fight some ancient mummies from the past or something. If anything, at least we've confirmed the direction we gotta go. Though it does make me wonder how they were recently discovered in the first place, if no one ever really goes in there..."
Qrow waved a hand to catch their attention before they could further question the official objective Ozpin set. "Alright, alright. Good work. If that's all, you're all free to chill for the rest of the night. Just don't be stupid and stay up too late. Early morning tomorrow and all that," he grunted, signalling the waitress to come over. Telling them to go ahead, Team JNPR headed for a staircase while he paid for their dinner with an official Beacon credit card and ordered another beer.
Despite the decent work the students did (and free drinks!) he couldn't get rid of that sinking, nagging feeling deep within his gut. Though discovering the truth behind the ruins was indeed part of the mission, both of them knew that it wouldn't go down well if they found out that they were essentially glorified bait. The Headmaster was suspicious of a link between what he discovered along with Arthur and Tyrian's actions, enough so that having to be plucked from spying on the movements of Salem's agents to shadow this spoke waves of importance. There was a reason Ozpin called him one of Vale's best huntsmen, and definitely his most trusted; he must've had his reasons for not choosing others who were on par with him.
Much like the team leader's father.
The Arcs were known in older times as a family of powerful warriors since even before the Great War. He vaguely remembered how another one of Jaune's ancestors slew a Drake - a smaller cousin to the Wyvern - when it attacked his home village. That being said, any loyalty Richter Arc had to Ozpin died alongside a significant chunk of his humanity at Mountain Glenn. He could still remember when news of the tragedy broke out during the start of his Team STRQ years, and how damaged the remnants of Beacon's finest teams looked like when they returned. It was perhaps some small apology and a sign of Ozpin's equally broken humanity that he did not choose JNPR to go there, though it still worried him that Ruby and Yang's team was sent instead.
"Ugh. Not much I can do but protest, even if they're, like, the best team in first year..."
At least they were with Oobleck - for all his quirks the man really was one of stronger huntsmen Beacon employed. Perhaps not at his level but more than enough to give him a run for his money; that and without the presence of his Semblance should at least ensure RWBY's mission went ahead smoothly. He sighed and finished his drink at the thought before leaving a couple bills of lien on the table and heading towards the stairs.
()===|=====+
It was all interesting. So very interesting.
He took a sip of his mead as he watched the knight walk up the stairs and out of sight. Was he even a knight? Judging by his sword, he was indeed some sort of warrior, but social attire was amongst a plethora of things that so drastically changed. The maps he had were no longer accurate, and the languages of the past long forgotten. Darkness fogged his memory since the last time he walked the world, knowing not why he found himself around once more.
One thing was for sure, though - the world felt dead. He could feel the smallest, residual fragments within the multicoloured sand-like particles he watched others use as some sort of fuel, but he used his own magic sparingly to learn the modern tongue and nothing else. Even from the very ground beneath him he could feel almost nothing left.
That is until he ran into him.
Oh, how he was thrilled to run into the child of destiny once again! Hylian he may no longer be, but he could never forget the aura of the hero's spirit and the fragment of the power he carried, even if it felt peculiarly diminished. Curiosity, hope and purpose warred within him, his innocent smile already tugging further up the edges.
After all, whenever there is a meeting, a parting is sure to follow. But it seemed this one need not last forever as the will of the old gods decreed he play a role once more.
How very...interesting.
Finishing the rest of his drink, he placed the mug down softly and let out a small, quiet chuckle.
/AN\
Welcome back all to A Descendant of Legends!
Halfway while finishing the editing the power went out, and were it not for a lamp I have that can run on battery I might've shit my pants in the dark. If this chapter was horror themed though then I think it would've been a welcome boost of inspiration. At least the beer in the fridge was still cold, lol. Helps that his chapter was relatively fun to write too now that Arc II's endgame has been set in motion.
To address a common question: I know this answer will disappoint many, but I would rather not reveal the identity of the next Incarnation of Wisdom right now. It could be Salem, it may not be, but what is for sure is that the Queen of the Grimm will definitely be in the story. Not gonna write her out when she has so much significance, especially in canon.
Once again, thanks all for sticking around! Constructive criticism and feedback are always welcome. Hope to see y'all at the next chapter!
MeraHunt: Haha yup! Helps keeps consistency as this takes place much, much after BOTW as well. And that's the challenge for him, isn't it? Finding a time and way to reveal the truth when the window for opportunity is growing thin. It all remains to be seen. Thanks, and hope to see you next time!
ZenithTempest: Ah, well unfortunately I'd rather keep some secrets close to my chest for now. As much as I'd like to answer directly, all will be revealed in time. What I can say for sure though is that Link was referring to how Zelda was the mortal reincarnation of Hylia once she gave up her divinity pre Skyward Sword. Hope it clears that up! Thanks, and hope to see you next time.
Dragon lord Syed 101: Thanks! Though they were by no means perfect, I've appreciated the genuineness to Team JNPR as they progressed in canon – something that I wanted to keep in their development here as well. One can hope they hold firm as Jaune's secrets come spilling forth, and it may be sooner than he thinks as well. Again, thanks and hope to see you soon!
Hashirama 1710: The truth of the next incarnation remains to be seen. Not much more I can say beyond that…hope to see you next time!
Spartastic 4: Definitely. There's a lot of potential with either direction, and it's something that'll be fleshed out as time goes by. At least there's still plenty of opportunity for both to do something about it, but then again that's just like in canon – especially with Pyrrha. We shall definitely see what path they take, just like as to how I'd like to build more depth to the CMEN crew + Roman. Though I can appreciate characters with simple goals, there's always potential to build upon. Perhaps its in a similar vein as to why some were upset at the nature of Calamity Ganon in BOTW. In any case thank you, and hope to see you again soon!
Kyle Preston Ross: Agreed, hopefully in BOTW 2 Zelda can actively participate in a much more helpful manner. Unfortunately I'd rather not reveal some things right now, but I do see your point – a lot of potential for interesting dynamics, especially as off the top of my head, the last time Link fought Zelda was technically not even her, merely Ganondorf possessing her corpse. Otherwise thank you! Glad to hear it. Hope to see you soon!
dragonbornthesam: Ah unfortunately I must remain tight lipped on the identity of the Incarnation of Wisdom. That being said, what is definitely for sure is that the events of the past before Salem and Ozma were dark and brutal – and in time, Jaune will learn the fate of his destined partner. Cheers and hope to see you next time!
Paradoxreader: Arkos is definitely one of my favourite ships as well. So painful was Jaune's obliviousness in canon that I toned that down a little bit here, but I think the best part is the potential that it can have on the team dynamic as a whole. Such was explored more in this chapter, and there's more to come to emphasize familial traits as well. And yes – Jaune has only half of Courage as the other lays with Dark Link. Thanks, and hope to see you soon!
Roy 4: 1.) Thank you! Glad to hear it. The Legend of Zelda is and will forever be my favourite video game series.
2.) Yes! They're coming in ones and twos for now, but rest assured that I will take full advantage of the various monsters the series has to offer.
3.) He is keeping it for now, but not for long, if at all. Time's almost out for him to take initiative in disclosing it. And, well, perhaps the greatest rewards are the ones you worked the hardest to prove yourself worthy in earning, even if you are fated to receive it.
4.) I believe this chapter answers your last question ;) As to specifics, Fierce Deity Mask / Link is personally for me a kickass character…but things are always on the table, some more likely than others.
Cheers, and hope to see you next time!
The Legend of Zelda and RWBY are the respective properties of Nintendo and Rooster Teeth.