Chapter 5: Journey to Site Beta
The weekend had finally arrived, and Jaune was eager to share his other world with his team. He couldn't hide his excitement as they gathered in their dorm room at Beacon Academy.
"Guys, what do you say we take a little trip this weekend?" Jaune grinned. "I want you to see what we've been working on and meet some of my servants."
Nora's eyes widened with excitement. "Seriously? Awesome! Let's go, let's go!"
Ren, ever the calm and composed one, nodded thoughtfully. "It's an opportunity to understand Jaune's new world better. Count me in."
Pyrrha smiled warmly. "We're with you, Jaune. Lead the way."
Thanks to BB's and Da Vinci's combined efforts, Jaune and his team's departure remained concealed. The journey to Site Beta was shrouded in secrecy, and soon, they found themselves at the hidden base nestled within the city of Mount Arcanus located at the base of the mountain.
Upon their arrival, Jaune and team JNPR were warmly welcomed by Jaune's servants Lancer Artoria and Ushiwakamaru, who acted as their guides during the visit.
"Welcome to Site Beta, noble members of team JNPR," Artoria greeted them. "I am Lancer Artoria, one of the heroic spirits summoned by Master Jaune."
"Welcome friends and teammates of my lord" declared Ushiwakamaru a grin adorning her face as she bowed low. Unintentionally flashing the members of Jaune's team as her outfit fluttered due to her movements.
Nora's eyes sparkled with excitement as she took in Site Beta. "This place is incredible! But why keep it hidden from everyone?"
"Secrecy is essential to protect our master from those who might seek to use his power for their own ends or disrupt Chaldea's mission," Artoria explained.
As the team explored the city of Mount Arcanus surrounding Site Beta, they were met with warm smiles and gratitude from the villagers. Jaune's servants had saved them from past threats and provided them with a new place to call home. "Jaune, thank you for everything you and Chaldea have done for us. We owe our lives to you," a villager expressed with heartfelt gratitude.
"It's my mission to protect humanity," Jaune humbly replied. "I am just glad we were able to help and I am sorry that we could not do more..."
Stopping at a bakery Jaune went inside and emerged with some fresh pastries which he quickly shared with his teammates.
"Wow, these are amazing!" Nora exclaimed, taking a bite of a buttery, flaky croissant. "What's the secret?"
Jaune chuckled, his eyes gleaming with nostalgia. "Actually, these are of French origin. My Servant Emiya taught the baker how to make them. They're a lot like something from my home, Arcadia."
"Really?" Pyrrha asked, intrigued. "You've never mentioned that before."
Jaune's smile turned reflective. "Yeah, there's something about the French culture that feels like home. In fact, my French servants have bonded quite well with me due to the similarities between France and Arcadia. Even if Napoleon is fond of giving me advice due to being the Prince of Arcadia. They often argue with the Knights of the Round Table about which group I really belong to."
"In the end, it was decided that both groups would have me as an honorary member."
"Wait a minute, you're actually a prince? That isn't just you being dramatic?" Nora questioned, her eyes wide with disbelief.
Jaune nodded, a sheepish smile on his face. "Yeah, Prince of Arcadia. I didn't want to make a big deal out of it, but I guess it's time you all knew."
"You've been holding out on us, Jaune!" Pyrrha teased, though her eyes were soft with understanding. "But seriously, that's incredible. Tell us more about Arcadia."
Jaune's face lit up as he began to describe his homeland. "Arcadia has always valued its privacy and kept itself isolated from the affairs of the other kingdoms. Mainly focusing on maintaining trade and good relations with the other kingdoms. It's a beautiful place, with lush forests, towering mountains, and crystal-clear lakes. We have a strong sense of tradition and a deep connection to our land."
"What about the military?" Ren asked, his curiosity piqued. "I've heard rumors about Arcadia's military force being a force to be reckoned with."
Jaune's expression turned serious. "Yes, the military of Arcadia is one of our proudest achievements. We've always believed in the importance of self-defense and preparedness. Our military is highly trained and equipped with the latest technology, but we also place particular focus on strategy, discipline, integration, as well as R&D. We've maintained a strong defensive posture, never seeking to expand or conquer."
"We have an Air Force, Army, and a Navy. With each branch also having dedicated special forces units."
Nora was practically bouncing in her seat. "So when do we get to visit this magical land of yours? I want to see it all!"
Jaune laughed, warmth in his eyes. "I was actually hoping to invite you all to Arcadia at the end of the semester. I'd love for you to meet my family and see the place I call home."
Nora giggled, "Getting back to our previous conversation, it's Jaune he has a charm all his own. Who wouldn't love him?"
"Sounds like you've made quite an impression on them," Ren remarked, enjoying the delicate pastry.
Their laughter was met with a soft smile from Artoria, who had been listening quietly. "Indeed, Master Jaune has a way of drawing people—and servants—closer."
Ushiwakamaru, standing nearby in her rather revealing outfit, simply grinned, "My lord is unique in that regard. It is an honor to serve him."
Pyrrha and Nora exchanged glances, both taking note of Ushiwakamaru's attire. Nora couldn't help but blurt out, "Ushiwakamaru, isn't that outfit a bit... drafty?"
The servant laughed while going over to hug Jaune, "Perhaps, but it's comfortable and doesn't restrict my movements during battle. Besides I believe that my master enjoys the view it provides. Do you not agree, Master?"
Jaune blushed slightly, trying to divert the topic, "Uh, well, it's very efficient in combat, I suppose."
Pyrrha chuckled, her eyes sparkling with teasing mischief. "Jaune I didn't know you were that kind of guy. I wonder what you think of me in my outfit?
"Pyrrha!" Jaune stammered, his face turning a shade redder.
The rest of the day was filled with exploration and camaraderie. The team and the servants visited the city's landmarks, sharing stories and laughter. Ushiwakamaru regaled them with tales of ancient Japan, while Artoria provided insights into the legendary Camelot. The servants' wisdom and experience added depth to JNPR's understanding of the world and themselves.
At one point, they found themselves at a beautiful park overlooking Mount Arcanus. The serene landscape served as a backdrop for a moment of reflection.
"It's amazing how two worlds can be so connected and yet so different," Ren mused, looking out at the mountain.
"Yes," Artoria agreed, her voice soft. "But it's the connections that make them beautiful. Master Jaune, your ability to bridge these worlds has brought hope and strength to many."
Jaune looked at his team, his friends, and his loyal servants. His heart swelled with gratitude and purpose. "We're all part of something bigger. Together, we can make a difference."
The day drew to a close with a feast hosted by the villagers in honor of JNPR and Jaune's servants. The air was filled with joy, music, and a sense of unity that transcended realms and legends.
As they prepared to leave, Nora looked at Jaune, her eyes shining with affection. "Jaune, thank you for sharing this with us. Your other world is amazing, but it's your big heart that makes it special."
He smiled, touched by her words. "No, thank you all. You make both my worlds complete."
With that, they departed from Site Beta, their bonds deepened and their resolve strengthened. They were more than a team; they were a family. The lessons learned, the friendships forged, and the connection between two worlds were all part of a journey that they were only beginning to understand.
The echoes of laughter and the warmth of shared memories lingered in the air, a testament to a day that was about more than just exploration. It was about finding common ground, embracing differences, and discovering the power of unity in the face of the unknown. It was a day that would forever remain etched in their hearts, a symbol of what they could achieve together.
Back in their dorm room, Jaune looked at his friends, his eyes filled with appreciation. "I hope you guys enjoyed today as much as I did. It meant a lot to me to share that part of my life with you."
"We loved it, Jaune," Pyrrha assured him, her smile warm and genuine. "It's clear how much they all care for you."
"Yeah!" Nora chimed in, bouncing on her bed. "And those pastries were so good! Can we go back just for those?"
Jaune laughed, glad to see Nora's unending enthusiasm. "Sure, Nora. Anytime you want."
Ren, ever thoughtful, looked at Jaune with a contemplative expression. "You know, Jaune, what struck me the most was how well you fit in both worlds. You're a leader here at Beacon and a Master at Chaldea. It's like you're meant to bridge the gap between them."
Jaune's face turned serious, and he looked down, lost in thought. "I never asked for any of this, but somehow it feels right. Like it's my destiny."
His words hung in the air, filled with gravity and truth. They all felt it—the sense that Jaune was on a path uniquely his, guided by something greater.
Pyrrha reached over and placed a reassuring hand on his shoulder. "We believe in you, Jaune. Whatever comes next, we'll face it together."
The sincerity in her voice touched Jaune, and he looked up, his eyes filled with determination. "Thank you, Pyrrha, all of you. We're a team, and nothing will change that."
The room fell into a comfortable silence as they each settled into their thoughts, the weight of the day's revelations settling around them. As the night wore on, they found themselves drifting into slumber, the echoes of Site Beta and the voices of the heroic spirits a comforting lull in their dreams.
Meanwhile, back at Site Beta, the servants who had spent the day with JNPR were gathered, reflecting on the visit. Artoria and Ushiwakamaru stood side by side, their faces thoughtful.
"He has grown much since we first met him," Artoria observed, her voice filled with pride. "Master Jaune has found his path."
Ushiwakamaru nodded, her eyes sparkling with admiration. "Indeed, my lord is strong and wise. His friends are loyal, and they draw strength from one another."
"They are an admirable team," Artoria agreed. "But the path ahead is fraught with danger. Our Master will need all the strength he can muster."
"And we will be there to support him," Ushiwakamaru declared, her voice filled with resolve.
They looked out at the horizon, the darkness of the night a stark contrast to the bright day they had shared with JNPR. The future was uncertain, filled with unknown challenges and threats. But they knew one thing for sure—Jaune was ready, and they would stand by him, no matter what awaited them.
As the night deepened, a sense of anticipation settled over Site Beta. Something was stirring, and the winds of change were beginning to blow. The journey had only just begun, and the story of Jaune, his team, and his servants was far from over.
The road ahead was long, but they would walk it together, their hearts filled with hope and determination.
For now, though, all was calm. The city of Mount Arcanus slept, the echoes of the day's laughter and warmth a distant memory. But the bonds forged and the lessons learned would carry them forward, a beacon of light guiding them into the unknown.
A.N. Any thoughts or suggestions about how to improve this chapter would be welcome. Thank you for reading my overly caffeinated ramblings. I hope you get the servants you roll for.