Chapter 26
Old friends and tales adventure
Week 9: Day 66
(Johnathan's POV)
"Alright, let's load 'em up and move 'em out!" I yelled as I tied the last box of supplies to the back of the troop transport Warthog. If what Cole tells me is right, we're in for quite a ride. We're going from somewhere in the Whiterun hold to Markarth. Why in the hell would he have the portal be so far away? Normally, that would be a few days ride by horse. But we have all terrain, four wheel drive vehicles. I give it a few hours. Over a few hundred miles it should be no problem. He did warn us that he'd need to take a 'happy nappy' when he gets there.
Courtyard was full of Atlesian soldiers and students. Few were curious on the cars I was loading up. I told them it was for a cross country road trip. They asked for what reason, I replied it is a birthday gift to my baby girl. Scared them off when I test fired the chain gun into the forest. Ten second burst at an Ursa, poor thing was cut in half and disemboweled. That and a small showcase of my strength. Had to lift the 'Hog up on its right wheels so Port could inspect the underside. It has his seal of approval and he also wants one now. I told him to bribe Cole or buy it off him.
We decided on a 'one person per team' limit for this small expedition. Ruby was nominated from team RWBY, their reason being 'she might enjoy the primal landscape' or Rhode told her about the sweet rolls. Oh lord the guards will love her. I was already warned by Yang that if Ruby doesn't come back in one piece, I will go missing and there will be no body for anyone to find. I am actually scared for my life, I do not want to know what she has planned for me if Ruby gets lost or hurt. Jaune from JNPR, their reason being 'he needs a confidence boost and to get out more', and because the only other option was Pyrrha, she politely declined saying she'll get the next trip. Ren and Nora can not be separated. I shudder to think on what Nora will do unsupervised. Probably the same as Caboose only with a deadlier weapon and more brains, and a lot more broken legs. Velvet from CFVY, don't think I need to explain their reason. Oobleck because we can use him as a scapegoat to the headmaster for the unscheduled field trip. Plus he would be good backup in case things go south quickly. I asked them to only pack what was 100% necessary for a day's trip. Serena triple checked the car seat for Elaia. She's worried about her niece, I understand, that's why I brought my swords and assault rifle with lots of ammo at my side. I know how dangerous Skyrim is, and I am prepared for it. Mu will be coming with us, just in case Nora gets any funny ideas. Last time she AI sat, Beacon was missing a huge chunk of it's pancake mix. I trust the hammer wielding maniac, but not with my AI fragment; not again. Also bringing Elaia's new weapon, gonna to show her how to work it while we're there. I'm being responsible and will only use blanks for now, at least till she gets a feel for the weapon. Going to teach her to respect the firearm and to never fear it. I teach her to respect the firearm, she won't shoot her eye out or anyone who isn't trying to hurt her. Best to start when she's young and likes to learn.
On a side note, we're going to have Jaune back on the gun and I'll tell him to 'spray and pray' if we run into trouble. I'm driving the troop transport Warthog, Oobleck has the one with a gun. Cole goes in the passenger seat for when he takes his nap. Ruby, Velvet, and Elaia go with me. Elaia in the back with Velvet, Ruby beside me up front. Reason being is that I trust Velvet to protect Elaia if shit hits the fan. Ruby might not be able to handle what Skyrim might throw at her, as long as she has her scythe she'll be fine. It's when she loses her scythe I'll begin to worry. According to Alice, Ruby is horrid in hand to hand combat. Ironically Ruby's sister is one of the best. I can Probably teach her a bit while we're there. And we're definitely going to have to make several bathroom and scenic stops on the way to Markarth, might as well make good use out of them.
"We'll be back before tomorrow. Glynda, tell Ozpin that I'm taking a few students on a cultural field trip." Oobleck said to his scroll as he climbed to the driver side of the gunner warthog. The man knew how to dress for the expedition. Large safari hat, thermos on his back, long brown trench coat. He had a rather rugged locking travel pack on his back. Few notebook and pencils on the side pockets, small camera with them as well, pair of binoculars hanging from his neck. He's driving because I doubt anyone else in our group knows how to handle a car at high speeds, or has a license. "Why are there six pedals on this thing?" Okay, maybe I was wrong. But he's the only one in our group who has half an idea on how to drive. Doubt Ruby knows how yet. Jaune maybe, Velvet told me she's still learning. Maybe We'll switch drivers somewhere around Rorikstead, so Oobleck could get a small break. With who, I have no idea. Figure that out when I get there.
"Okay but if you're going to another universe with Johnathan, bring me back something, and please don't lose any of the students. We're already in deep water from the Elite attack." Goodwitch replied.
"Come on, let's go. I want to go see some magic and dragon screams and sweet rolls." Ruby replied excitedly. She was in a rather different outfit then I'm use to her wearing. I told her to prepare for cold weather, and she listened. Large winter red button down jacket and pants, her rose emblem on her pants leg just below her combat skirt. She refuses to leave her beloved combat skirt behind. Signature hooded cloak still on, she is definitely going to need that in Skyrim. On her back was a bright ruby red pack full of protein bars, bottles of water, and a few mags of ammo. Her sniper/scythe was on her back as she climbed into the passenger side of my 'hog. She finally got it fixed and she is practically begging to use it on something. Well she'll get plenty of opportunities to in Skyrim. Only a matter of if she's mentally able to take another life or not. Skyrim is a cruel place, kill or be killed. For her sake, I hope she'll make the right choice when the time comes.
"Slow down Ruby, no one is going to leave without us." Jaune replied climbing onto the turret. He was in his normal apparel. Apparently that is warm to him, I won't complain. His sword and shield on his side ready for the worst, smart man. He'll blend in pretty well in Skyrim, compared to the rest of us. His pack was a bit more worn down then the others. Mainly had a bunch of snack cakes, sodas, and a first aid kit. I'll be sure to stock up on health potions while we're in Whiterun, and say hi to Lydia. She does owe me a small favor being my housecarl in all. It's not that I don't trust their first aid skills, it's that I like to be instantly healed if we're going into a major fight. Though, would Aura and the healing potions mix or void each other. Like with magnets. Two positives or two negatives push away. Would the same case be said for Aura and other healing like powers in the multiverse? Only one way to find out.
"Well, at least we're not going alone." Velvet replied buckling Elaia in. Velvet's attire was completely different than I expected her to wear. Brown and yellow snow jacket with her stitched heart emblem on a patch. Brown fur hood to cover up her rabbit ears if need be, warm brown fur pants with her combat tote on her side. Brown and gold digital camera at the ready inside. Apparently she really loves photography. She even showed me a picture she took of me practicing with my energy swords. I'll was kind and told her it was great, I refuse to say anything else on it. My gentleman nature as her boyfriend forbids me from insulting her pictures in any way, shape, or form. Though the photo as mainly on the swords for some reason. I asked why and she told me it was a surprise. Brown and gold pack on her back full of essential items, (Food bars, bottles of water, folding shovel, tape recorder, extra dust crystals for her box). If it isn't going to be useful she didn't bring it. Everything is all set and packed. Elaia is buckled in, Cole in the passenger seat of turret warthog.
He's definitely also going to blend in well, his normal hoodie and track pants replaced with A blue and gray fur lined coat with a leather and iron cuirass, and two leather spaulders. He also wore leather pants with a pair of strange looking (possibly "Magicked") boots, they had a few metal plates on the toes, shins, and heel that glowed softly his stave and backpack strapped to the back of his seat. Everyone is prepped and prepared. Time to lay out the ground rules.
"Alright, let me go over a few ground rules before we even think of leaving this world." I explained holding up only one finger. "Rule number one; always stay in the group. If you want to venture out to explore a bit when we stop, bring a buddy but be back quickly. Skyrim is a dangerous place and will eat you alive if given the chance. Never go anywhere alone." I held up a second finger. "Rule number two; Listen to what I say, no hesitation. I know what to expect, I know what is dangerous and what is friendly over there. Cole also knows a little bit so if for some reason I'm not around you can ask him too. Looks can and will be very deceiving." I held up a third finger. "Rule number three; any loot you find you can keep, as long as no one else owns or claimed dibs on it. That includes but not limited to spell tomes, weapons, armor, gems of any type, books, anything as long as you're not stealing it. Currency in that world is gold, so we're all bum broke when we get there." I raised a fourth finger. "Rule number four; If anything attacks you first without a good reason, kill it. Don't show them any mercy because none will be returned. Bandit, kill it. Wild animal, kill it. Some jerk who insulted your mamma or family, do as you wish. I don't care. As long as you dispose of the evidence after words." I held up my last finger. "Rule number five, well more of a guideline then a rule; we take turns picking the music, I've got several CD cases full of different genres so we'll be good for a while." I announced hopping into the driver side of my 'Hog. "Everyone all set to go, no one has to pee, or get a drink, or eat something." Cole raised his hand.. "Good, Cole fire up the portal. Jaune, spray and pray if we come across anything hostile and try to hold on tight. Everyone else, try to at have fun. We got over a few hundred miles to cover and lots of sightseeing."
Cole rolled his eyes before focusing all his energy to force a connection again, he was probably joking about whatever he needed. After a brief moment, in front of my 'hog erupted into a multiverse portal as he groaned and nearly passed out on the passenger seat of his. No turning back now. We're going to be trapped for at least a day. I hit the gas as we passed through the portal. With that, our journey began.
(Third person POV)
Minutes earlier
"I can understand that travel between kingdoms has become increasingly difficult. With the White fang and weird 'instances' popping up all over the place." Ozpin said taking a sip of his coffee as he looked out the window. Below was Johnathan loading up his vehicles. Johnathan did warn Ozpin of this little trip, as long as Oobleck accompanied them, he allowed it. Oobleck was on the gunner vehicle inspecting it.
"Oz, you and I both know why I brought those men." Ironwood replied standing next to him. "The world as we know it is rapidly changing around us, and we're all struggling to catch up. First your Freelancers showing up, then a giant predatory animal rampages through downtown Vale, then Ohio's pets show up, and millions more after that. I'm getting reports all over of Remnant of portals erupting and spewing things out faster than my men can take care of . The most recent one had several giant fleshless people walking out of it, I had to order a massive fleet strike to kill all of them before they could cause too much damage. Even then they took out three ships before we finally killed them, plus half a town. I'm not even going to mention what came out before that. Winter has beyond grown tired of dealing with it all, had to task her with studying that sentient machine that came with Ohio to give her a change in pace; and her father demands an explanation as to why dozens of his most heavily guarded and prized dust shipping freighters are getting hijacked single handed by some growling maniac with a dome helmet. Plus the media is a pain to keep quiet on all this, the last thing we want is mass hysteria. I can't get a moment's peace without anything happening out there. Right now there is a portal in Mistral with living plants walking out of it killing some type of undead creatures we're calling 'zombies'. How do you explain that at all? We had to tell people it was a failed science experiment. Don't even get me started on what happened in Vaccuo last week. How the hell can an entire town go missing with the only angel statues left? My soldiers swear they change every time someone blinks or looks away."
"I assure you James, I'm already on top of the situation before it even began. I knew this would happen the minute mister Grey showed up. We just need to be patient. Everything will fall into place when the time is right." Ozpin informed putting his coffee cup down.
"We can't wait it out. This is happening now, and we're practically running around with our heads cut off. Whatever your plan is, we need to speed it now! Atlas can only do so much to stabilize this mess. The new Paladin models are too few and still in the prototype stage to be effective." Ironwood explained looking down at Johnathan's group as they began loading up in their vehicles. He's kind of interested as to why they need so many supplies if it's going to be a short trip. "We need their help Oz. We obviously know nothing on what we're facing now, or what has yet to come. So whatever tricks you still have left up your sleeves, I pray it's enough. Because we're running out of time and options before the queen makes her first move."
"I hope so too James." Ozpin stated as a portal erupted in front of the vehicles. "But we need to have faith. As headmasters, we're only as good as our students. We can only prepare them for so much, after that it's up to them to decide how to use their teachings."
"But do you honestly expect our children to fight in a war?" With that, Ironwood left as Penny's new shell followed shortly. Ozpin closed his eyes as the elevator begun to close. They were in a tough jam and he knew it. Johnathan was the first to hit the gas and gun through it. Oobleck's followed shortly behind. Ozpin silently bid them safe travels as the portal collapsed behind them. The rest is up to Monty. He opened his eyes and said only six words. Six words that echoed through out his office as the elevator descended down.
"I pray they never have to."
(Johnathan's POV)
My 'hog shot through the portal at blazing speeds as I hit the brakes and skid to a stop before I hit a bolder, we had less space to run then I thought from out of the portal. What use to be a clear courtyard was now the wide open tundra plains of Whiterun. Yellow grass nearly as tall as my tires, small running river on my left side, large castle like structure of Whiterun in the distance to my right. Boulders littered the ground around us as birds chirped in the wind. Looking up I could see the two moons of Nirn beginning to set in the crisp pink sky, darkness was being pushed back by the heavenly lights above. Behind me shot Oobleck and Jaune's 'hog at speeds to rival my own. Oobleck hit his brakes and skid right next to me. Great timing dude.
"You guys may be nauseous, that is completely normal. Mild headaches and temporary blindness are normal a well, they'll go away in a bit. Blacking out will occur if you jump through several portals in a single day. Please, use this time to recover a bit. You need to throw up, do it in a bush." I informed turning on the exterior lights. Jaune almost immediately jumped down from his turret and ran to the treeline, trying to hold on to his lunch and failing. That did not take him long.
"This is fascinating, already we're seeing an extraordinary phenomenon. Two moons caught in a planetary gravitational pull, aurora lights flashing above us as we speak, and we're in a valley between two mountain ranges. I have to document this for future reference." Oobleck informed pulling out his notebook and scribbling something or another in it while sitting on a rock.
"Yeah, it's fascinating. Wake me up if and when something happens." Cole replied pulling some type of pillow out of his backpack and hooked it on the back of his seat. "Unless it's life or death, or we run into a dragon, don't wake me. Or we run into bandits as well, I haven't kicked butt in a while. First one who does and it's not for any of the above, is walking home." With that, he collapsed in his seat and began snoring. Wow that was fast, even for him. Then again he did force a portal connection to another world. I'll have to thank him for this when he wakes up. Think I'll get him a few bottles of Black-Briar mead. I know how much he loves that stuff. Maybe a few bottles of the reserved stuff, he sure loves his alcohol.
"Take your time teach. I think Jaune may need a minute or two." I replied hopping out of my 'Hog to try to get my bearings. Let me see here. Whiterun hold is in view, Road shouldn't be too far from here. As long as we follow the road or the caravan, we should be fine. Should stop into Whiterun to ask for a map, Hope Lydia isn't too pissed at me for leaving her alone here. Save Whiterun from a dragon and the Jarl knights me and gives me a housecarl, who held my crap more than she fought. I mainly told her to watch Elaia while I did all the fighting. Couldn't hurt to drop in and say hi. Hope she remembers me. It's been what . . . two years? Three years? I can't remember how time affects this place. Thing it's a day here equals an hour back home. Or was it a minute? Excruciatingly difficult to find out without a reference point or Serena at her terminal.
"It feels so different here." Ruby stated hopping out of the back of my 'Hog. "Back on Remnant I felt more at home and at peace, here I don't know what I'm feeling. Difficult for me to explain." She said holding her gut looking at the ground with sorrow in her eyes. I know what she has, seen it more times then I can count.
"Homesickness. I know the feeling oh too well. I do crap like this for a living. You'll get use to it after a while. " I replied taking my helmet off and breathing in the fresh, clean air this place has. Smelled heavily of lavender and icy cool moss that grows everywhere. I looked to my side to find Jaune regaining his composure as he leaned on his 'Hog. Elaia was playing a fun game of I spy with Velvet. What ever keeps her happy. "We got two options people. We can visit Whiterun real quick for some sight seeing, or we can head out to Markarth now to cover ground sooner than later."
"I vote we head to Whiterun for an updated map of the providence. I doubt you memorized all of Skyrim." Mu replied popping up on my shoulder. You'd be surprised Mu, I got a good idea where the main points of interest are at. Let's see; Solitude is northwest of here, Winterhold north, Riften east, Markarth to the west. Just follow the signs and we'll be fine. Now the bandits are a different story, that is why a short burst into their group would keep them away. If they don't listen, full auto and no mercy. They won't give me any, why should I give them any.
"I second that motion. Town sounds nice right now. Maybe something to calm my stomach." Jaune said raising his hand. I looked behind me to find Velvet and Elaia doing the same thing. Oobleck and Ruby raised their hands in favor of it as well. Six against one, I'm out voted. Guess we're visiting Whiterun first.
"The group has decided. Back in the 'Hogs guys. We're moving out." I ordered throwing my helmet back on and hopping back in mine. Oobleck closed his book and hopped back into his 'hog. Ruby and Jaune quickly got into their spots as we headed off. I was in front leading the way down the worn brick road. Oobleck's 'hog in my mirrors, Jaune holding the gun in a death grip. Maybe I should swap him and Oobleck out, Jaune nor Ruby look like the type who can handle the thought of taking another person's life. Though in my travels I've learned that sometimes it is necessary to do so. Got to do what is needed to survive, even if it means taking your attacker's life. Do I regret anything, at first I did but now I don't feel a thing. After seeing so many die or get hurt beside me, something inside snapped. Stuff like that doesn't faze me anymore. I went from a lovable idiot, like Jaune or Caboose, to the man I am today. Drastic change if someone asks me.
Before my augmentation, before Freelancer, before everything; I was an innocent minded child. No idea how cruel the world could be, no idea on how dangerous life is, and extremely weak. I was a twig with noodles for limbs and the butt end of many jokes back in regular school. If only those morons could see me now. I've changed in more ways than one over the past four years. More than anyone could think possible. I don't regret a thing I've done in my short life. I only wish that I was stronger, both physically and mentally, a lot sooner than later. Maybe then I wouldn't have so much guilt on my mind when I go to sleep.
"How do you do it Johnathan?" Ruby asked. "How do you handle being away from home or anywhere familiar? Knowing that most your friends and family are so far away and can't help you if you get yourself into trouble?"
"In my line of work . . . I learned to savor every moment I can get with my family and at home. You never know if you'll see them again. So you'll want their last memory of you to be a good one." I answered tightening my grip on the leather steering wheel. "When I step through those portals Ruby, I don't know what could on the other side. Could be a nice meadow filled with flowers and talking horses, or it could be literally be the fiery pits of hell filled to the brim with ravenous demons. I've learned to trust that Serena knows what she's doing, and to save my sorry hide if I do get in trouble."
"What's that over there?" Velvet asked pointing in front to our left. Quick glance told me everything. Large herd of twenty or so brown woolly elephant looking beings reached the river to our left, using their large trunks to suck up the water to spit back in their mouth. Their Giant herdsmen curiously watched our vehicles as we passed by on our way toward Whiterun. Oobleck's 'hog trailed behind me, with Jaune aiming his gun nervously at the enormous creatures. Ruby and Elaia looked memorized by the graceful creatures as they drank from the river. Velvet sat there taking pictures with her camera as one of the gigantic creatures raised it's trunk and bellowed at us. I really love this world.
"Mammoths, generally peaceful animals. Though they are extremely territorial. Their herders are Giants. They won't mess with you unless you attack their mammoths or seem like a threat to them." I informed swerving a bit to the right to give them a wider berth. I know they can keep up with me if they wanted us dead. Sure we can shoot them, but they're not hurting anyone right now. So there is no need to mindlessly kill them.
"Are they dangerous?" Oobleck asked through the short range radio. Maximum range is about ten miles if I remember right.
"Only when provoked. Give them a wide berth and you should be fine. Also, tell Jaune to keep the gun pointed at something else, preferably not at my 'Hog or the behemoths that can squash us like bugs. Last thing we need is him to have slippery fingers and shoot at them." I replied clicking the button on the side on my helmet. So far so good, nothing attacked us yet. Quick glance around the skies and not a dragon in sight. In front of us the city gate came into view, with some scared looking stable owners to boot. "We're closing in on the city. Velvet cover up your ears please, I don't know how the local Nords are when it comes to Faunus. If they do ask what you are, say you're a Breton. Trust me big time on this one. Elaia, you're with Jaune and Oobleck. I don't trust the guards too much. Ruby, don't hurt anyone. Oobleck, please watch the cars. We're only going in to say Hi to someone and for a map. Mu, you already know what to do."
(Velvet's POV)
Few minutes later
I don't know what to say, this world is breathtaking. City with stone walls high enough to be a fortress, Enormous graceful creatures grazing in the fields, two complete moons without a single crack in sight. I don't know what to say. I got nothing to compare this place to. Johnathan parked the cars by the stables, said it would be easier to explain to the sable owner than the guards. The air was chilly but lucky I got my winter gear, happy Coco talked me into these.
This city was simply amazing. A little prehistoric compared to what I'm used to, but amazing nevertheless. The houses were beautifully made and looked ready to withstand the elements, roads made of stone with people walking down and guards wandering about on patrol. Children playing friendly games as the adults worked. Wood could be heard splitting under the weight of an axe. For some reason I hear someone rambling on about 'the glory and love of Talos' and he sounds a bit annoying. I'd never tell anyone that, but he sounds a bit annoying.
"Wow. That is one . . . BIG . . Scythe. How did a kid like you come across something like that?" One of the iron masked guards said as Ruby walked in front of me with her precious scythe over her shoulder for all to see. Johnathan was in front, leading out group with his helmet off. I trailed behind Ruby with my hood up and ears flattened. Oobleck volunteered to stay behind as he observed the mammoth herd through his binoculars. Jaune was chosen for babysitting Elaia. According to Johnathan, Khajiit are not allowed in the cities for some reason. He trusts Oobleck and Jaune to protect her while he gets an updated map of the provenance. Said it wouldn't take long and that he knows someone here who can help, an old friend if I heard right.
"I made it myself but my Uncle Qrow taught me how." Ruby proudly proclaimed.
"Whatever helps you sleep at night kid. Just don't hurt anyone with it, or I'll have to haul you off to the Dragonsreach dungeon. Rather not have to do that." He warned before spotting Johnathan. "By the Nine, if it isn't one of the men who knocked the Thalmor off their high horse! I'd recognize that arm anywhere."
"Yep. One in the same." Johnathan replied.
"You know they've been combing Skyrim for you and your friend for years now. Something about 'settling a score', put a pretty hefty bounty on your head; two hundred thousand gold and climbing with each passing month. They really want your head on a pike." the Guard informed. Two hundred thousand gold! I don't need to do any math to know that is a lot of money! What did he do to have them put such a massive bounty on his head?
"Those bastards started it. I don't let rapists and murderers get away with what they've done. I'll be more then happy to take them down another notch. Just tell me where they are." He replied crossing his arms. Okay that makes since now that I think of it. The guard chuckled a bit as he pat Johnathan's shoulder.
"Hey. what happens between you and them is none of my business. Us hold guards like our lives and know better then to attack a one-man-army without good reason. If they ask me again, I'll say I never saw you here. You have all our respect for standing up to those cowards." The guard replied walking away.
"What happened between you and the Thalmor?" Ruby asked backing up from him a bit. I probably don't want to know. That is in the past, best to leave it in the past. He obviously doesn't want to revisit that particular moment.
"Long and complicated story made short. They raped and killed my friend after we arrived here, so in return I killed . . . . a few dozen of them as revenge, I think. I forget the exact number, anyways. I got captured, tortured, and escaped. Not exactly my proudest moment but in my defense, they started it." He explained walking up to a house. "I wonder if Lydia even remembers me." He whispered knocking on the wooden door.
"It's barely daybreak outside. Who in Oblivion is at the door." I heard someone swear. "I'm sorry but the owner isn't home at this time. Please come back some other time." A sweet female voice informed without even opening the door.
"Actually he is right outside, the dumbass just forgot the key in his other armored pants and is hoping the Housecarl will be merciful enough to let him back in." Johnathan replied smirking. As soon as he finished his sentence, the door flew open and before us stood a middle aged woman looking at Johnathan wide eyes. Dirty brown hair and eyes. Little taller then I am, midnight black knight armor. Wicked sharp sword at her side. Her eyes were filled with many emotions. Joy, relief, just happiness in general.
"My Thane, you have returned. Please all of you, come inside and sit down. I'm sure you're all weary and hungry from your travels." She said opening the door and rushed us in. I'll admit, it is well decorated. Central hearth with a pot hanging over it on a spit, few herbs hanging from the rafters on racks. Two weapon rack off to my right, filled with midnight black weapons of all sort. Bows, maces, axes, swords, only one that seemed out of place was a sleek purple sharpshooter with pink needles sticking out the sides. No idea what it is, probably better off not knowing. Bookshelves filled to the brim with worn out books, cupboards with various types of food and spices on it's shelves. Pair of chairs by the hearth. "What shall I cook up for you and your companions. Venison stew? Horker loaf? Cabbage stew?" Cabbage stew sounds really good right now.
"Few red apples would be nice for my friends. But let me introduce you all to each other first." Johnathan replied as Ruby stared mesmerized at the sharpshooter. "Lydia, these are my friends Velvet Scarlatina and Ruby Rose. Velvet and Ruby, this is my Housecarl Lydia. Welcome to one of my homes away from home."
"What's a Housecarl?" Ruby asked scratching her head as Lydia handed an apple to Ruby, which she hesitantly took.
"A Housecarl is a title bestowed on the bodyguard of someone important by the Jarl, or rulers of the hold. By tradition and honor, she is sworn to protect me and all I own with her very life. Not really needed if you ask me but nice to know she always had my back. I mainly had her watch over Elaia and haul extra stuff during the short three months I was here." Johnathan explained resting his helmet on the table as he sat down. "Been so long since I've been here, I've forgotten how comfortable this chair was."
"So wait, you own this house? And have a bodyguard to house sit while you're away?" I asked pulling back my hood. Lydia looked a bit taken back by my ears, but Johnathan quickly interrupted her before she could do anything.
"Lydia, she's my girlfriend. Please, show her the same respect you'd show Ruby here or any of my friends." Johnathan pleaded. "Technically Lydia owns the house since it's in her name. I just paid for it with money I collected from bounties and bandit raids. That was a fun time. Lydia, Remember the Renguard assassins from Swindler's Den, the ones sent to kill Saadia or whatever her name is."
"I remember perfectly. If memory serves, I was protecting Elaia the whole time while you took all seven on at the same time. Imagine their surprise when you pulled your special swords out on them and sliced their leader down the middle. I swear one of them soiled his armor." Lydia replied laughing a bit handing my an apple. I smiled and thanked her as Johnathan chuckled a bit.
"Yeah. To be fair I am pretty intimidating. Did we ever figure out who was right? The mercs told me one side, the girl told me another. Went for the girl's side because I really hate the Thalmor and she gave me enough gold to remodel the bedroom before hand." He asked.
"I never really looked into it. I go to the Inn every now and again to talk to old friends. She gives me a free drink while I'm there. Says she's grateful we saved her life." Lydia replied sitting in the chair next to him. Ruby and I pulled up chairs from beside the bookcases and begun munching on our apples.
"She still works there? I figured she would have left town by now." He mused. "Back to why we're here. We need a map, is my old one still here somewhere?"
"Yeah, it's upstairs in your dresser. Let me go get it for you." She replied getting up and heading up the ladder. Johnathan chuckled a bit as he looked back at me and Ruby, who were a bit confused.
"Let's just say I spent a lot of time in this universe. Made some allies and saved a few dozen people in the process." He explained. "While she's looking for the map, who wants a house tour?"
(Jaune's POV)
"Fascinating. Those Giants, seem to have found a way to tame mammoths and herd them." Oobleck mused taking pictures of the elephant looking animals in the distance and writing notes. I was bored drawing pictures in the dirt with Elaia. Johnathan trusts me to watch his daughter, and I'm not going to let him down. Keeping her entertained is a different story. He said he was only going to be a few minutes. We've been waiting here for almost half an hour while Oobleck studies the animals here.
"This one looks like a bunny." Elaia said pointing to the picture she just drew.
"Very nice Elaia." I replied with my usual uneasy smile. She's not bad once you get to know her. She reminds me of my sisters back home. All seven of them. She's adorable and loves to have fun, yet has more to her then meets the eye. I'm still trying to figure out how she can shout like that. Could it be her semblance? A part of her semblance? I'll ask Johnathan when he gets back.
"I love it here in Skyrim. The cold air makes me feel at home." She replied smiling away as the one dude snored from our cars. Not sure why they have me on the gunner spot. I was horrible last time, I shot everything except what I needed to. I was brought out of my train of thought when an ear piercing roar cut through the air.
"What was that?" I asked looking all around.
"Umm . . . I think we need to inform the local law enforcement of a small problem. Maybe the army or someone." Oobleck replied putting his camera away.
"Why what's wrong?" I asked again. He didn't answer as he just pointed to the sky, up by the mountain. Flying down was possibly the scariest thing I've ever seen. Absolutely massive in size, bronze colored scales, arrow tip shaped tail, dozens of bony bumps along it's back. Two monstrous gold colored wings, clawed legs, and a nasty looking horned head. And it was flying straight for town. "What in Monty's name is that thing?"
That's a wrap people. The adventure in Skyrim begins. I bring in everyone's favorite Housecarl, Lydia! Well my favorite at least. Before people ask what armor she is wearing. She is in ebony armor. Only midnight black armor I know of in the base game. Yes wetworkz there will be a dragon attack, but what type of dragon you'll have to figure out. It's not Skyrim without dragons. Now to reply to reviews.
Warwolf82- I won't spoil who is getting lost to Skyrim, but you're close. Will they be lost by taking a wrong turn, or a selfless act of bravery? I won't tell. I was thinking of
TheMAO17- I assure you, it will be fun. As for the plans I have for the metal gear. Well, let's just say two of season 3's biggest badass relatives will make an appearance for it. Let's face it, doubt RWBY could handle a metal gear like they did the Paladin. Took Snake and Fox together to bring the damn thing down, (Spoilers) with one of the two sacrificing themselves in the process. Two highly trained spies to take out a machine made for war. As for your OC. You can submit it if you want, I'll consider it. I already got several to add in. All OC's will make it into the story. I got a special plan for them. Out of curiosity, why do you ship Maine and Neo? Only reason I can think of is because they're both scary, psychotic mutes. Though Maine is the scariest fuck mute in the galaxy, maybe even the multiverse now that he has a metal gear at his disposal. Imagine Deadpool having an army of just his children, he'd be unstoppable! Well even more unstoppable.
That's it for the reviews. Added a few hints as to what is to come. Multiverse has lots of potential. I plan to unleash as much as I can onto this young world. I am a evil author, very evil and insane. Happy Easter, and see you all next chapter.
~Dgreen20
Cole: Don't let anyone else know, but the reason I "like" alcohol so much, is because the nanomites in my bloodstream that allow me to regenerate my body actually keep me from getting drunk. So do you know what that means? I get to drunkenly slur and yell gibberish and swear at people with an excuse! And it's a wonderful thing let me tell you. It's great for getting out your stress. And you can let people know how you actually feel about them with the excuse of "I was drunk". It's awesome!