Chapter 29
Dusk before Dawn
Week 9: Day 66
(Velvet's POV)
Still in Skyrim
This world is absolutely beautiful, in every sense of the word. The sun shining brightly in the sky, clouds whispering away as the wind blew, fresh scent of lavender over whelmed my senses. Sun begun it's slow down ward arc across the primitive yet beautiful sky. I couldn't help but smile as I gazed upon the breathtaking view. Elaia was in front of me trying to read me the book Johnathan got her. I was correcting her on a few words and phrases, but she was doing great for someone her age.
We stopped by a town for some directions. What was the name again. Gave them a good scare driving up in the vehicles. Few thought we were 'deadra', whatever they are. Can't be good if they ran like we were a Goliath on fire. It was a cute little town, several small farm steads packed the area, think I see an Inn or bar of sorts, few little girls running around and playing like children do, logging mill and wind mill close by. It was a cute little sight. Reminds me of my father's home town.
Ruby was who knows where right now. Jaune was attempting to help some girl farm leeks, he's trying to gain his confidence to ask Weiss out again once more when he gets back. It's a start by helping a farmstead girl with her crops, maybe she'll give him pointers. Coco's suggestion was don't try anything stupid. Like playing a gutiar and singing to her way off key. That should save him from a humiliating rejection. Oobleck was reading the book the Jarl got him in the Worthog, he seems quite interested in it. Johnathan was trying to get some direction to Markarth from the Inn owner. I was beside Elaia, helping her learn to read better. Cole was still asleep in his worthog. Found out that he talks in his sleep. He's muttering something or another about 'Superman needing a good ass kicking' and to 'Call Goku for help'. I don't even want to know with him anymore. Who is 'Superman' and 'Goku'?
"Okay, thank you sir." Johnathan thanked walking out of the Inn, holding his helmet under his armpit. Shaking his head and pinching his nose. I know that look, he has bad news. "Markarth is now a no go. Inn owner heard some rumors that the roads to the city have been effectively cut off by thousands of Forsworn, and we don't have the ammo in our guns to blast our way though. Cole's turret might but it's turning radius is too slow for that many of them. The Briar hearts can move quicker then it can turn. Plus they love to scatter in all directions when faced with overwhelming forces. Why didn't I remember that sooner."
"Now what?" I asked scratching Elaia behind her ears. Kind of cute how she purrs (A/N Do Khajiit purr? Could Blake while we're on the same topic? I tried finding any sort of evidence against or for it in the game, came up dry so I'm going with this till proven wrong. On that same note, what would happen if you gave a Khajiit or Blake catnip?). Like she is a kitten, well she kind of is in a sense. Wait, what is a Khajiit child called? I don't think Johnathan ever explained that to us. It's either kitten or cub, or child. I have no idea what the technical term is? I'll call her kitten for now, sounds the best in my opinion.
"I don't know. Can't go home without Cole wide awake. We're just going to have to find something to do till then." He replied leaning against the warthog. Throwing his helmet in the driver seat. "Let's see. What to do in Skyrim that won't get any of you killed or horrifically disfigured. We already went mammoth watching, doubt any of you want to go mudcrab hunting, more ruin or cave exploring maybe. Falmor might be an issue though in some. Don't want those slimy, blind, cave dwelling parasites anywhere near you . . ."
"You know this place a lot better then we do. I trust your judgement." I replied as Elaia's fuzzy tail brushed up against my leg. Kind of tickled as it passed, felt just like a cat's tail; only fluffier and a lot bigger. I am finding the links between Elaia and a big cat more commonly then I thought. Well she kind of does look like a Puma . . . panther. . . . eh same animal I think. Never did travel to the wilds of Minstrel to see either in person.
"Problem is, I can't think of anything here Elaia would like that is safe for her." He informed pinching his nose. "Not much she can do that is safe. Sightseeing is probally the best right now. But what is close by that we can drive to?"
"What about the Blue Palace. It's close by right? " Elaia asked innocently tilting her head to the side. I couldn't resist but to smile at that look. So innocent and so adorable. I wonder how my parents would react to her, Serena, and Johnathan? I haven't told them about me and Johnathan yet because I am scared of what Dad would do to him. He is a little overprotective of his children. With me being the only daughter, he is extra protective of me. Actively spoke up against me becoming a huntress, warning me of the dangers and risk it has. Few debates later, I won and he let me enter Beacon. How long has it been since I last talked to them . . . . four months? Three months I think? Before Johnathan showed up at least, so about three months give or take. I am in for a long rant when I get back. Dad might blow a fuse when he hears I've been to two different universes already. I know Dad would have a cow when he sees the nasty scar on my leg. That leg still feels funny after the Troodon bite, but at least they didn't have to amputate. I am grateful for that.
"Um. . . . I don't think you're ready for Solitude just yet. Maybe in a few years when I teach you some self defense. Personally I rather you visit the temple to Maridia right now, that is rather safe compared to the rest of Skyrim. I can get us there in half an hour max. Maybe an hour if Ruby got herself lost somewhere in town." He explained ruffling the fur on her head.
"I can help protect her. The guards might respect a 'mage' like me." I offered chipping in my two cents. "I wouldn't mind meeting a real queen. I wonder if she would like to answer some questions."
"Problem, I don't think I have enough weight in Solidude to get you anywhere close to her. In the city maybe not not near the queen. Plus the guards don't like me too much and they're kind of hesitant with magic. Their captain swears up and down that I am a deadra of some sort. If it were up to me, I'd have us stay in Whiterun and enjoy the scenery there. Nicer and safer." He responded hoisting Elaia into his arms. "But it is not up to me. We're here for the birthday girl. She picks where we go today if you're all willing to help watch her. So what will it be kitten; Blue Palace or more sight seeing till Cole wakes up from his nap?"
"Blue Palace, Blue Palace." She replied excitedly. I saw that one coming a mile away. She is dead set on seeing the Blue palace. I let out a light chuckle at the expected response and Johnathan let a defeated sigh escape from his lips.
"You're the birthday girl, if that is what you really want. I'll go find Ruby and Jaune, We'll head out in eight minutes at 1500. Stay with Velvet, she'll keep you safe. I can get us to Solitude in less then an hour easy." He ordered lightly kissing Elaia on her forehead and setting her back down. I can tell he really doesn't want to go back to solitude, why I don't know exactly. But he loves Elaia enough to push aside his discomfort to make her happy on her birthday. He continues to amaze me, I sure hope my parents like him. Mom is the easy one; I know she will love him, Elaia, and Serena on first contact. Dad might be trickier for Johnathan to gain his trust.
We were easily going at least sixty five down the road, may not seem like much, but with no doors and barely anything in the means of a seat belt, it felt like we were in a metal deathtrap. Who in their right mind designed this vehicle?! Didn't help that the roads were not flat or straight. Felt like we would roll over with every turn, almost did twice so far. Elaia's car seat was tied down heavily with duct tape and rope so she wouldn't bounce or fall out, giggling away asking him to go 'faster and faster'. Me, I was holding onto the vehicle's cage frame in a death grip. I can barely feel my hands right now, that is how tightly I was holding on!
"Slow down! You're going to kill us all!" Ruby screamed holding on to her seat for dear life. The loud rev of the engine flooded my ears as we flew down the cobble road, literally flying for a few seconds when we hit a small bump. Oobleck was not far behind us with his vehicle bouncing like crazy also. Poor Jaune wouldn't let go of his turret as he was thrown all over the place, holding on to the handles of it like it was his only lifeline, ready to barf at any second.
We are currently bouncing all over the road like a rubber duck in a tsunami. Frigid snow fell all around as we plowed straight though a freezing cold pelted against my jacket mercilessly. Everything that wasn't covered up was pretty much frozen at this point. Had to flaten my ears against my head and wear my hood up to keep them from freezing off. How can anything survive out here?! It's freezing, things wanting to kill us from the air, things wanting to kill us from land, things wanting to eat us from the water. I think it is easier to list what doesn't want to hurt us out here. We ran into a few bandits wearing fur earlier. They took one look at us and ran like their lives depended on it. I could honestly mistaken this place for Atlas for how cold and unforgiving it was.
"I drove these things though untold amounts of gunfire, explosions, away from Agent South on her period with a missile pod before and came out in mostly one piece. I know what the heck I'm doing. Just hold on tight." Johnathan responded as the vehicle bounced all over the road. I lost count on how many bumps we hit. Half of which I am sure were because of a rabbit or fox running in front of the vehicle. Poor things never stood a chance. Doubt this world has ever seen anything like this vehicle before. Elaia simply didn't care if we were in danger or not, she was laughing her furry butt off with every bump. I can see why her and Johnathan get along so well. "We're coming up on the solitude gates. Velvet, hold on to Elaia, the breaks on this thing work hard and fast." He warned. Hard and fast? What di he mean by . . . I had my question answered in the form of the whole vehicle jolting and the back tires squealing against the road. Ruby was vaulted from her seat and hit the windshield head first. I forced my eyes shut as the Hog skirted to the side, kicking up dirt and stone everywhere. The squeal of Oobleck's jeep echoed though out the mountain side as he came to a forced stop. The overwhelming stench of burnt rubber filled the air as did the sound of metal clanking.
Hesitantly I opened up one eye. Everything looked the same, I'm not dead yet. Countless red clad masked guards watched in awe at us. They looked exactly like the ones from Whiterun, but with red armor instead of orange, and a wolf head painted on their shields instead of a horse. Two behemoth iron gate doors in a massive stone wall, going as far as I can see one direction and up a mountain the other. The place is huge, way bigger then Whiterun. Well he did get us here alright, now what?
"Note to self; Never ride in the same car with Johnny when he is driving." She noted rubbing her swollen forehead. Elaia had her claws dug deep in her car seat, with scratch marks along the side. I wobbled as I tried to get up, still shaking as I took a few steps. Johnathan calmly killed the engine as one of the guards stepped forward.
"By the Gods, it's Him. The Bane of the Thalmor, savoir of the high queen, slayer of countless dragons, Thane of Whirerun, the one man Apocalypse; 'Agent Ohio'." He announced shell shocked as Johnathan jumped out of the car. "What forth do we have the pleasure of having you visit our grand city?"
"Good to know I haven't been forgotten yet. I was certain the Thalmor would have tried everything in their power to make people forget about me." He answered heading to the back of the car, carefully unstrapping Elaia from her seat and holding her in his arms. "I do hope there won't be any issue with my daughter and our friends from entering this fine city of yours. She has her heart dead set on visiting the Blue Palace, what kind of a father would I be if I couldn't grant her such a simple request on her birthday. Who can say no to those eyes. We don't want to break the cute little kid's heart now do we?" He asked in an innocent and calm tone, Elaia's tail swished nervously as the guards backed away from him with their swords out. Ruby groaned as she hopped out of the car next, wobbling a bit as she held on to the cage bar for support. I stepped out of the vehicle next, standing behind Johnathan as the Guards whispered among themselves. My hood was up so I doubt they were talking about me. Jaune rushed from his spot and went to the nearest patch of bushes, and there goes his breakfast.
"Quite a site to behold. An entire middle ages city built on the edge of a mountain. I can only imagine how long it took to complete. Life times I presume." Oobleck mused hopping out of his car. "Mister Gray, may I suggest next time you want to get somewhere quickly, don't automatically go full speed right out of the gate. Jaune can't handle the quick breaks on that vehicle."
"I'll remember that next time." Johnathan replied as the guards begun opening the massive gates. Wow that was quick, he must really have some weight to get us them to decide so quickly.
"The Cat may enter, because I've been in a good mood today. But if I hear so much as a peep of her causing any sort of trouble. I'll personally kick all your sorry hides out of my city. Understood?" One of the guards fearlessly declared walking up to Johnathan, looking him straight in his visor. Johnathan towered over him by at least a good foot, maybe two. I can't tell what either are thinking. I have no idea if a brawl is about to break out or if they're going to do nothing.
"Crystal clear sir." He replied spitting out sir like it was the worst curse word imaginable. Well with Johnathan's normal tone I am not all that surprised. Where could he have gotten such a colorful vocabulary from? Couldn't be from Freelancer, Rhode was in the same program and she doesn't swear nearly as much as he does. Wonder how they're doing back home?
(Rhode Island's POV)
Beacon Academy
"What do you mean 'Delta crashed'? What in the heck did you do to him?!" I yelled pulling on my curled brown hair. Penny was currently on my shoulder in AI form, acting like a scared kitten in a thunder storm. We finally caught up to Nora, but not before she had some fun with a gravity hammer in the Emerald forest. Why would Ozpin or Goodwitch let her keep it? It is obviously too dangerous for any student to use. Anyway, Penny popped up on my shoulder not too long ago saying Delta crashed. As in he won't move or even respond to anyone. Theta, Eta, and Iota went in to try to get him back online, a lot easier said then done. We can't exactly turn him on and off at will. They'll figure it out, they're three fragments of a 'smart' AI. They can't figure it out, then they'll have to wait for Mu to come back to try again.
I was in Alice's assigned dorm as we tried to figure out how to get Delta back. I'm the only other one here with experience on AI fragments, so she picked me. Serena was too busy trying to get Rosa away from Coco's dorm. The crazy raptor loves to chew on her boots. Azula huffed back to the dorm and fell asleep on her bed. That Raptor has been getting lazy lately. Ever since the Meta nearly killed her and took Rojo from her, she's been acting kind of strange. Feels weird with her not trying to kill someone.
The dorm wasn't too bad. Better then mine by a long shot, but that is to be expected with Alice now a combat teacher. Single sturdy green bed in the corner by a oak end table. Several bookshelves full of various items. I think one has a Elite's skull with a hole between the eye sockets. How she got it, I have no idea. Olive green painted walls on all sides, plain tile floor. Very simplistic in my opinion. Workbench with loads of tools in one corner, blueprints to her MJOLNIR armor taped to it. I assume for maintenance purposes, or to get it on and off manually. I know Johnathan has a hell of a time getting his armor on and of at Freelancer. It was actually York who came up with the idea for the detaching mechanisms for his armor. Or was it Utah? I can't remember. Alice sat in a armored chair as we assessed the situation. Her helmet was on her bed, leaving her pale skin for all to see. My helmet was still in my dorm, waiting for regular maintenance.
"I don't know why it happened, I just kissed him and he crashed." Penny confirmed flickering, eyes full of fear and confusion. "Are guys suppose to crash after you kiss them?"
"Mainly in the socially awkward and moronic ones." Tex replied from Alice's shoulder pad.
"How long till he comes back online? He can't stay in my head forever." Alice asked in a firm yet concerned tone.
"Could be hours, could be days. AI just don't crash like this. At least none that I've seen or been around." I answered as Tex held her head.
"Penny could try kissing him again. An electrical pulse can stop a heart, yet it can restart it. Could that work?" Alice asked.
"Possible but this is Delta we're talking about. Give him a math problem and he'll solve it with in seconds, give him a social or romantic problem and he becomes next to useless. That might make things worse." Tex answered.
"Well we can't just leave him like that. We got to try something." Penny responded. This is getting confusing. Well this is beyond my level of knowledge with AI. Maybe Serena knows what to do? I'll ask her if we can't a solution soon. Wonder what Ohio is up to in Skyrim? They've been gone for a few hours.
Back to Skyrim
(Johnathan's POV)
Solitude my old frield; it's been too long since I last seen you. Elaia held up firm in my robotic arm, fleshy one close by my Energy sword should anyone try anything. I tensely walked the cobble streets of the massive city. Countless people wondering about, several children ran about playing games of tag, merchants shouting to be heard over the crowds. Everything I just how I remember it. . . . except nothing is on fire. I can practically smell the meed in the Winking Skeever from the front gate. Maybe I should pop in for a drink, Elaia loves it when the bards sing the song of her kind; Dragonborn comes. She loves that song. Me, Mu, or Serena sing it to her every night before she goes to bed. Helps her sleep hearing a familiar song from her world, mostly because I don't know any other song from this world.
"It's beautiful." Elaia mused as she gazed upon the busy street. Yes it is a pretty town . . . in it's own right. In my opinion, Vault 22 from the Fallout system is better. Beautiful scenery, easy to manage pests with the right tools, plus the food grows to monstrous sizes. I've seen a watermelon there bigger than Elaia. All though the mushroom spores did overtake everything . . . even the food. Figures, food was everywhere and not a single bite was edible.
"You guys can go off on your own if you want. I plan on spending some father-daughter time with Elaia. Just meet back at the front gate by 2130 hours." I ordered looking behind me, only a dust cloud of where Ruby stood was all that remained. Where did she go? If I know her by now, she is more then likely watching the town blacksmith make tools and armor. Or at the bakers buying as much sweet rolls as her loot can buy. Dear lord, what did I unleash on this poor town! Oobleck made his way to the apothecary, most likely for research on potions and how they're made. Jaune passed though the doors to the one clothing store I forget the name to. If I know him by now, most likely to buy something to impress Weiss with.
"What's in there?" Elaia asked pointing to my left.
"The 'Winking Skeever'. It's like a bar and a Inn mixed into one. Don't ask me why it's called that, I have no idea." I answered as Elaia clung to my head. Thank Mara for my helmet, other wise her claws would have cut into my skin by now. Quick glance around told me all I needed to know. Countless city fokes watching as I walked on by. Whether it is because of me personally, or Elaia being a Khajiit I have no idea. Don't want to know, as long as they keep their distance."You doing okay honey?" I asked Elaia. I could hear her tail swishing around nervously.
"They're all watching me Dad." She answered flattening her ears. Poor girl never does well with crowds, she hates all the attention. One of the many reasons why we got along so well in the beginning. She wouldn't leave my side when we first meet. I deeply remember her father thrusting her into my arms and begging me to take her as far away from the city as possible. I did go back to look for her family after the dragon was slayed, but only found the charred remains of their caravan and bodies. She became attached to me ever since. I'll be honest and admit I tried to take her to the orphanage in Riften at first. But after hearing all the kid's stories and seeing what their 'legal guardian', Grelga the kind (That bitch was ANYTHING but kind to those poor children), did to them I kind of snapped and insured she wouldn't hurt them again. I forget exactly what happened, but I remember my energy sword meeting her chest with a large sizzle, then her brain met my boot, then the rest is a big blur except for the cheering and mild screams. In my defense, she had it coming. I was just Karma's tool at the time. I do not react kindly to child abusers, rapists, and everything in between. Just another name to add to the long list of those slaughtered by my hand. A long, long list. I was merciful compared to what Mu wanted to do to her. For the fragment of mercy and humanity, that woman can come up with wicked and down right inhumane ways to kill someone. Forcing someone with earbuds super glued to their ears and tied to a chair to listen to nothing but boy band music is just plan evil. Doing nothing but listen to that bullshit till they die from who knows what . . I should have done that instead. Love to see the Dark brotherhood take me in my sleep or kill me. I won't be a easy target either way.
"Ignore them, they won't hurt you with me close by." I replied as I felt a set of fingers interlock with mine. Glanced over to my right to find Velvet beside me, smiling away with her hood up and hand in mine. I'll admit this . . . kind of feels nice. It is nice to have a small slice of normality once in a while. No crazy portal ruptures, no bullets or plasma bolts flying around me, nothing and no one wanting to kill me at this moment. Just peace and tranquility right now.
"Lead the way, my brave Freelancer." Velvet said lightly squeezing my hand. I smiled as we continued past the ramp to the blacksmith, where I saw Ruby talking to someone, slowing my pace to match Velvet's. Few people turned their head to look but none kept their gaze for long. Mu popped up on my HUD screen as Elaia's death grip on my helmet eased up.
"You three honestly look like a real family right now. Only thing missing is a lazy or hyper active pet." She commented, making Velvet blush like mad. It does feel that way to me. Holding my beautiful daughter in one hand, loving girlfriend holding my other hand affectionately, the three of us peacefully walking down the cobble paved street. Anyone could mistaken us as a loving family. I would easily mistaken it as well. As for the pet, what in the world does she think Rosa or Azula are? Chopped liver? Who needs a shotgun when you got two prehistoric guard dogs who will completely screw up any would be robber who dares break into their house.
"I know Mu, and I love it." I replied quietly as the main living quarters of the city came into view. Countless stone and wooden houses filled my field of view, a massive stone wall seperated the city from the outside world. Hawks flew over head as moss grew down from the roofs and arch ways of some places. It was just beautiful. I can hear metal on metal as guards practiced in their area not too far away. Countless human children ran around the streets. It honestly felt like a medieval kingdom city, in a way I suppose it is.
"Can you tell me about one of your adventures?" Elaia asked innocently. Oh she wants me to tell her a story about my job.. I can do that, I think I can remember quite a few safe for her age.
"Sure, what type you hoping to hear? I got some safe for you from the Marvel system, DC comics system, few from the Halo system, which one do you want to hear." I asked back.
"How you and Rhode first meet." She replied as her ears perked back up.
"Yeah, you haven't told me too many stories from your time at Freelancer. I'm curious how you two first met." Velvet joined in. How Rhode and I first met. Man it's been a while since I last thought of that. I do remember falling on top of South's tray of food after bursting though a portal, as well as enraging said Agent. . . . Then getting my first ass kicking out of many from the same pissed off Agent. Right off the bat she did not like me. Took me an hour at least to convince them I was only there to talk to the Director about something. The best reaction from my landing was from Idaho, Iowa, and the first Ohio. I came along after her. Till they dropped out I was called 'Buckeye' to ease the confusion. It stuck to a point. After the first Ohio dropped out, only South and CT called me by that name. Everyone called me 'Ohio' or 'Bucky'. I think the Director was looking for a reason to replace the triplets before I came along. Wonder what happened to them? I kind of liked the games they played. Idaho reminded me of myself, before the Multiverse changed me.
"My early days in Project Freelancer." I mused out loud with a sigh. How was I going to explain this one in terms she would understand. "Meet Rhode during meal time on day one of training. Nothing special there, except it was Taco Tuesday I think. Or was it Fish Friday? I forget exactly what day it was. The first few weeks of Freelancer was the worst. To everyone I was the newbie or 'Noob', sat alone during meal times at the mess for the most part. Just trying to get use to everything. Rhode Island was one of the nicest ones in the beginning. She was actually the one who taught me how to shoot. We were in the Cargo bay of the ship. I was doing some late night with some surplus ammo we picked up. Guess my swearing in frustration was enough to wake up Rhode . . ."
Mother of Invention
3 years ago
"Ohio, what are you doing up so late?" Rhode Island asked crouching down next to me in her nightwear consisting of a glittery purple night gown and pink fuzzy bunny slippers. Her hair was up in curlers, bag under her eyes told me she was tired.. I was knelt down in the ship's spare and partially empty cargo bay. Several caution cone target were set up down at the end, along with a million and one bullet dents on the wall. I can't seem to hit anything with this stupid rifle, I'm alright with a pistol but absolutely horrid with a rifle at anything over twenty yards. Don't even get me started on how bad a sniper I am.
No idea how it happened; but some how the bullet I fired bounced off the target plate, over North's head by an millimeter, bouncing down the hall, up a flight of stairs, into the bridge, shattered the Director's favorite coffee cup in his hands, before finally embedding itself in the wall. I don't know how that is even possible in the least, but I am no longer allowed to even breath near a sniper rifle for the next two months. I don't even want to know the odds of that happening again. York says I shouldn't play the lottery with that horrid of luck, while South was too busy laughing her armored ass off while I got mine chewed out.
It's been two weeks since the Director accepted my deal, and yet I am just as horrid as the day I started. I can't shoot, I can't fight, I can barely drive a warthog, a can't fly a Hornet worth a damn. Every try ends in pain, so much pain. The ships doctor has automatically set up a bed there just for me, that is how many times my ass has been to the infirmary in less then a month. Don't even get me STARTED on South's teaching methods.
"Just trying to get better at shooting." I replied firing off another shot from a DMR I 'borrowed' from the armory. Still missed it by an inch. I don't know what I am doing wrong. I am in a prone position, breathing controlled, rifle steady, barrel cleaned out before I started, all moving parts cleaned, sights are adjusted properly. I just can't find out what I am doing wrong.
"You're grip is all wrong. It's too tight and throwing off you're aim." Rhode informed squeezing up beside me, using her smaller hands to guide mine. Isn't this situation normally in reverse? It feels kind of weird having her chest pressed up against my back like this. "Loosen up a bit. Respect your rifle, don't be afraid. It's not killing machine, it's a tool. Just like a hammer or a saw is a tool for the workshop, you're firearm is your . . . . "
"I know all that, Carolina drilled that speech into my head day one." I responded aiming down the scope once more. "Just hard to learn when barely anyone is willing to help. South's 'lessons' don't help too much either. My ass still hurts from the medics removing all that lead."
"I can't say nothing for South. Her teaching method is . . . unique." She sheepishly admitted re-positioning my arms once more and backed up. "Now shoot again. Ease up on the trigger this time." She instructed. I listened and let off another round. This one knocked the cone on it's side. Well that was better then the last million times. "You're getting there Ohio. Can't expect to be a master marksmen after less then two weeks of training. Just keep practicing, you'll make it eventually."
(Reality)
" . . . I couldn't thank her enough for all her help. She was one of the few who pushed me enough to be better in the early days. When I felt like giving up she picked me by up, dusted me off, and forced me to keep going. She took her time training me where some of the others would neglect. Over time, I guess we just formed kind of a bond with one another. I trust her to watch my back and she trusts me to watch hers. We've proved it to each other time and time again. While we may have never made it on the leader board, but that never stopped us from kicking butt or having a good time." I remembered smiling from the memory. We were still walking down the street. Blue palace wasn't too far ahead, I would let Elaia down so she could run but I don't trust the guards.
"So did you and Rhode ever . . . you know . . . date? " Velvet asked.
"A true gentleman never kisses and tells. But I can confirm that we don't see each other in that light anymore. Me and her agree we're better off just as friends and siblings in arms. " I replied. "So Velvet, how are you liking Skyrim so far?"
(Ruby's POV)
It is official, I have died and gone to heaven. Everywhere I look there is a perfectly crafted weapon or armor piece. Some made of steel, some out of metals I never heard of. They had everything I could ever ask for and more. I am beyond tempted to start spending the stash of coins I found. Even more tempted to keep them till we get home. That much gold in my back pocket, Dad wouldn't have to worry about money issues ever again. Plus I could afford new parts for Cresent Rose. I'm thinking a nice waxing and cleaning would be in order when I get home. Maybe a new toy for Zwei.
Now that I think of it. I should listen to Alice and invest in a secondary weapon as well, just in case I ever lose my baby again. I've been watching the Blacksmith hammer away at a greenish blue short blade. Studying how he works with such an alien material. I've never seen a metal like that before. Wonder what it is? Could I use it to upgrade my baby?
"Intrested in my work I see young one." The Blacksmith obsirved dipping the blade in a bucket of water, the satifying sizzle of hot metal meeting water filled the air. The man was easily as well built as Port, yet dressed in simple blacksmith's clothing. He kind of reminds me of a shaved Port to be honest. "Not many younglings come by to watch me work."
"Just curious on what you were making. I've never seen a blade like that before, what is it made of?" I asked as he took the now mounded sword to the sharpening stone. It truly was a alien blade to me. Leaf shaped greenish blade with a golden hilt. To some, it was just a simple blade, to me it looked like a work of art. The blade was beautifully designed and crafted, looked beautiful yet deadly. There is no doubt that I want one. I could hang it over my bed as a decoration? Or I could use it as a secondary weapon . . . now that I think of it, I have no idea how to fight with a dagger. I'd get it for decoration. Who do I know of that fights with daggers? Maybe they can teach me. Can't be that hard right? It looks light enough.
"Just a simple Glass dagger, nothing too special about it. They sell quickly to those with the gold to buy one." He answered running the blade down the gringind wheel. "Hundred and fifty gold per blade if you were wondering. Not enchanted of course. They're not the easiest thing to make." Only a hundred and fifty for the blade, sounds a bit expensive but worth it in my mind. How often does someone from my world come across such craftsmanship. Not too often so I have to jump on this.
"Do you accept trade?" I asked slugging my backpack off. I know it is in here somewhere. Now where did I put that little beauty? It is somewhere in my cookie stashing pocket. One of these has to be it? Too green, too blue, too purple, bingo! Found it!
"That all depends, what do you think the blade is worth?" He asked as I held up a little red gem, no bigger then my eye, out of the pack. I knew I had one in there. In my hands I held my namesake gem. I don't mind parting with one, the others might miss their sister but I really want that dagger.
"Would this be good enough?" I asked handing him the gem. He looked at it questionable before pulling out a eye glass thingy. He hummed a bit as he looked at it closer. I picked out the ruby right? Of course I could have grabbed a garnet, they look so similar when mixed in a pouch together.
"Yeah, that is a real ruby. Clean cut and with no notable imperfections in the gem. Worth a pretty septim on it's own." He declared putting the blade down on his workbench. "So you want a Glass dagger. Come, step inside my shop and pick out the one you like the best. A well paying customer deserves to see all her options. I got some armor that might fit your small figure as well. Can't let a young lass buy a blade without offering some form of bodily protection to go with it." Wait, I had a flawless one in my pack this whole time! I am going to be filthy sticking rich when I get home! But what to do with all that money?
I'll figure it out when I get there. Right now I got a blade to buy, might need to ask Johnathan on how to fight with it. Because as it stands, I have no idea how to use it properly. Now that I think of it, some light weight armor wouldn't be a bad idea. If the multiverse is as hostile or dangerous as Johnathan suggests it is, it couldn't hurt to have a little extra protection on my side. The second I passed though the doors to his shop, I have found my own personal classical weapon filled paradise. I now know how Coco feels when she is cloths shopping. Silver eyes darted between the rows after rows of weapons of all sorts, and of all types of metal as well. How am I going to get all this home and where would I even put it? Well, one step at a time; Armor first. Can't wait to see Yang's face when she sees everything I brought home. I might require help getting all this back home.
"Do you have anything in red and black?"
(Jaune's POV)
I am kind of liking this place so far. Except for the dragon attack, that was painful, and the many times I nearly died getting here. That turret is horrid to hold on to when the driver is all over the road. I swear I nearly fell out nine times. Except for the near death experiences, this has shaped up to be a good trip. Beautiful landscape, not too many things want to kill me here, plus there isn't a Grimm for miles on end; Heck universes on end. I chalk this up as a good day.
I was looking around a dress shop for Weiss's gift. There is bound to be something here that will impress her. Flirting doesn't work, acts of bravery don't work, funny jokes don't work. If something here doesn't work, then I give up. Main pain is finding the right dress for her. All the ones here either are too large for her height, not her color, or too expensive for my budget. The farm girl gave me hundred gold coins as payment, from the price tags I see it is not enough. Ruby did hand me a few of the gems she found to spend. Could they be enough for something here? Maybe a necklace would be a better idea. Easier to carry, easier to surprise her with, plus I can't go wrong with a good necklace. Every girl like jewelry right? Well that is what my sisters have always told me.
The building I was in wasn't too big. About twice as big as my team's dorm, large counter with dozens of shelves full of jewelry of all sorts. Necklaces, earrings, rings, circlets, everything I can think of. Bored looking yellow skinned girl at the counter, tapping her fingers on the wood while I shopped.
"Anything in particular you're looking for, or are you just killing time?" She asked dully and bored.
"Looking for something to impress a girl I like." I answered hovering around the jewelry case.
"Get her a necklace then. All women like jewelry." She replied still drumming her finger tips on the wood.
"Okay, How much is that one?"
"Silver amethyst ring of minor archery, Five hundred gold."
"How about that one?"
"Gold ruby necklace of fire resistance. Six hundred gold."
"Or that one?"
"Gold diamond necklace of major magic resistance. Two thousand gold. They're arranged from cheapest to most expensive." Well crap. Doubt I got enough gold for any of that. Even with Ruby's help I can't afford it. Well maybe the ring but I think everyone would get the wrong idea in their head. Wait a second. . . . I found it. Something that would match Weiss perfectly. The blue gems to match her eyes, silver band to fit her normal outfit.
"How much for that one?" I asked.
"Silver and moonstone circlet, I'll be merciful and charge you only two hundred. Only because it's been there a few months and is taking up inventory space." The shop owner replied still annoyed. It's perfect, she can wear it as a crown or princess tiara. Plus it is beautiful and with in my price range. If this doesn't get me a date, or even a kiss, nothing I can throw her way will. Heck, I'll be happy with a smile or at least a chance. All though would it be too big or too small or her head? If anything it looks too big, well she'll grow into it. We're still young, still got room to grow and change.
"Do you accept gems?"
(Johnathan's POV)
Hours later
"Well, we saw the Blue Palace. Guard wouldn't let us in because the Queen had an important meeting, but we saw the outside. Anything else you want to do while we're here?" Velvet asked as we headed toward the front gate. Well we saw the building, I don't get why she wanted to see that place? Nothing particularly special about it's design compared to the rest of the city. Stone walls, moss hanging from the blue tile roof. Fair sized court yard with a guard posted right before the front door. Sun was finally beginning to set, fringed air cooled down even more as night began to settle in. All the buildings went dark except for the bar/inn, it was still lit with the sounds of drunken nords chanting away with the Bards. We're defiantly in the wacky part of Skyrim alright.
We spent the better part of our time just exploring the city. Sat down on a bench and had just talked with one another. Velvet was beginning to grow tired, Elaia is ready to pass out in my arms, and I was still wide awake. Wonder where Ruby and Jaune are? I can see Oobleck chatting with one of the locals, what he is saying I have no idea. I swear to Talos the man talks faster then Ruby can run. Velvet was beside me, holding my human hand as I kept Elaia up with my robotic one. I had my helmet hanging on my belt at the moment. Mu was silently documenting everything around us, it kept her happy and away from the closed minded Nords. I shutter as to what they would do if they saw Mu on my shoulder.
"Can you sing me a song?" Elaia asked yawning as she rested her head on my shoulders. "Dragonborn comes please. I like that song." How did I guess she would ask for that one; I had to sing it to her enough times at bedtime to have it memorized, well the English part anyway. Still have no idea what the dragon part of it says. I never got around to learn it, never needed to.
"I don't know that one. Never heard of it. Sorry." Velvet replied sheepishly.
"I know it. Fairly easy song to memorize." I replied clearing my throat.
"Our hero, our hero
Claims a warrior's heart
I tell you,I tell you,
The Dragonborn comes.
With a voice wielding power
of the ancient Nord art.
Believe, Believe
The Dragonborn comes
It's an end to the evil
of all Skyrim's foes
Beware, Beware
The Dragonborn comes
For the darkness has passed
and the legend yet grows
You'll know, You'll know
The Dragonborn comes.
And the rest I can never remember. It's in another language."
With that, Elaia fell right to sleep on my shoulder. Velvet just smiled as she watched the two moons of Nirn rise in the waning sky. I couldn't help but smile as well. This trip has been worth it. Everyone is still in one piece and alive, they all got stuff to remember it by, and got priceless memories from another world. I don't think we'll be seeing Oobleck too much when we get home, if the countless amount of books and scrolls in his backpack were anything to go by.
"Thank you Johnathan, for taking us on this trip." She thanked leaning her head on my free arm.
"Thank Cole when you see him, he is the one who brought us here. He should be awake by now" I replied. As if Maridia was listening to my every word, walking out of the Winking Skever was none other then Cole. Wide awake and with a rather large bottle of mead in his hand. How long has he been up . . . . by the looks of his eyes and how many bottles I know he can drink before being kicked out of a inn. I'd say he's been up for a few hours, four at least. Never did find out which one of us would win a drinking contest. Forget shots we drank straight from the bottles, and they weren't tiny ones either. We got up to fifty nine before we both passed out. Who drank the 60th one we'll never know. Mostly because I we both can't remember everything that happened. I do remember waking up with the mother of all headaches. That I can never forget.
"Eh screw you all. I'll make my own tavern somewhere; with Blackjack, and hookers! You know what, forget the Blackjack! Awe screw the whole thing now that I think of it. I'll go to New Vegas in the Fallout universes instead. Their liquor is so good you'll swear it is radioactive." He yelled taking a nice long drink of mead. "Oh hey Johnny! How's Skyrim been treating you. I've just been here, hanging with a few old buddies, recharging the micro machine things in my blood with some Black Briar mead. I almost forgot that Skyrim makes real strong alcohol. That stuff will put some hair on your chest assuming it doesn't kill you first."
"How many drinks have you had tonight?" I answered in a low voice.
"Lost count an hour ago. Somewhere in the low twenties I think. Jerks kicked me out for knocking out some asshat. He had it coming, no one insults my girl and gets away with it." He replied casually sitting on one of the barrels. "So what did I miss while I was snoozing? Why aren't we in Markarth? And where is Rose and Arc?"
"Road to Markarth was much worse then we originally thought, so we went here instead. Ran into a dragon in Whiterun, we killed it and headed off. Aside from that, a whole bunch of site seeing and minor pit stops for bathroom breaks. As for the other two, I have no idea where they are." I replied softly as to not wake up the sleeping bundle of fur on my shoulder. He nodded understandably and took another drink. A metallic crash and a Ruby sounding 'Uff' caught our attention. She was trying to walk with a backpack full of various weapons. Just from the outside I can see orcish battle axes, steel swords, a glass dagger, even an elven shield. She was huffing and puffing as she struggled to carry the grand assortment of sharp things. Now that she is closer and I got a better look at her, is she wearing armor?! As in actual armor that can protect her ass in a real fight! On her wrists was red and black tinted Elven bracers, her hood was over a similar tinted leather chest piece. She managed to walk her way beside us and wobbling a bit, as if she were off balance. How much did she buy?! How did she even afford all of that is a better question to ask.
"In life, there are a great many things I will regret." She began as she collapsed in a exhausted heap, face first into the ground. "This will not be one of them. I regret nothing!" She declared as she pointed to the heavens in defiance, right before she collapsed again.
"Out of curiosity, what are you planning on doing with all that weaponry? And how are you planning on getting to the warthogs?" I asked.
"Wall decoration mostly. I think a nice green axe or blueish green sword would look good over a fireplace back home." Her muffled reply was from under the mass of metal and cloth. "As for getting it to the cars, I thought I could carry it all. Boy was oh so very wrong. Once again, I still regret nothing."
"Well that solves where Red went. Now where the hell is Blondie?" Cole asked scratching his head. "Red Riding Hood, any idea where Blondie is at?"
"Clothing store last I saw him. I don't know how long ago that was. Maybe two or three hours ago. " She replied attempting to push herself up, but ended up back where she started in seconds. Once again, how much did she buy? "Just give me a minute to rest up. I'll make it back to the cars. . . . Eventually." Well this will teach her a valuable survival lesson. Don't pack more then you can carry. The door to Radiant Raiment chimed open, with a rather happy Jaune walking out. Happily whistling a song before he noticed all of us here.
"What did I miss?" He asked.
Later in the wilds of Skyrim
"Weird seeing a complete moon in the sky at night, never mind two complete ones." Ruby noted beside me as we casually drove down the road. Headlights pierced though the cover of night. Elaia was in the back fast asleep, Oobleck's vehicle not too far behind us. We really don't have a set place to go to right now. Cole was maning the turret this time, to give poor Jaune a break. Ruby had her bag of weapons in the back with Velvet and Elaia. Got a short list of the stuff she bought, which includes but not limited to; an ebony sword, glass dagger, orcish battle axe, I think she said a dwarven mace, steel crossbow, and elvish axes. That woman can't control herself around weapons.
"If complete moons weird you out, then you'll be in deep trouble with my line of work. Broken or shattered moons are actually pretty rare in the Multiverse outside your region. One out of every ten, maybe twenty regions has either a shattered moon or multiple celestial bodies orbiting their world. Reach from Halo universes has two moons, Nirn from Elder scrolls universes has two moons as you can see, Pandora from Avatar has a few I think as well as a few rings. Cole don't correct me if I'm wrong. The stunning effect kind of dulls after a while. How they get shattered, I can't say. I never stick around long enough to find out why." I informed with my eyes locked on the terrain ahead.
"You know, there's just one thing I can't figure out about you're line of work." Velvet noted from the back seats.
"What's that?" I asked.
"In your words, the multiverse is a collection of universes created from pieces of fiction sprouting to life. And the words around them are created when people from you're universe desire more or better versions of it. And they're all generally carbon copies of the main universe with some differences." She informed
"In extreme Layman's terms yes. Little more complicated then that, but essentially yes." I replied.
"Why would you need to explore so many worlds in person when you can just look them up on the internet? It would be safer, probably a whole lot better in the long run." She asked.
"I must condor with young Scarlatina. The way I'm informed on how MERC does it's operations, by yours and Serena's word, is kind of questionable in some areas. Much like the Schnee dust company in some ways." Oobleck added over the radio. If I had a dollar every time I heard that question, I'd have a enough money to buy my own universe.
"Not that simple, actually it's pretty complicated so I'll simplify it to save time. Yes I could just do some nerdy research on the Core-verse itself, but that is not the main point of me risking my hide over trivial bits of data. MERC is more interested in the sub-verses. The ones that won't destabilize the fragile nature of the Multiverse. They want it because they're the main ones that sprout natural portals to our world all the time. For instance, the Bramuta Triangle is a hot zone for temporary portals. Ones that come and go within a matter of minutes to anywhere and everywhere. What I'm told by the big boss, which I am calling complete BS on, is that they're more interested in 'Global security' or wanting to help humanity in some bullshit way to line their pockets. I just do my job to protect my family from their grimy hands.
"My line of work is mainly to document and record everything I can about that world from the ground. The stuff Wikipedia can't tell you or even the most hardcore nerd of that genre. The things that would mean the difference between leaving it alone, trying to establish a kind of trade system between worlds, or marking it as too dangerous for anything." I explained.
"So wait, why would do they trade? If they're from the main universe, wouldn't that mean every resource they have can also be found elsewhere in the multiverse? And are extremely limited when trading on that big of a scale?" Velvet asked.
"That is well beyond my $6.95 an hour pay grade to answer. Every question like that I ask MERC, they deduct it from my already non existent paycheck. I don't deal with the trade, that is a whole other department where the line between good and bad is beyond blurred. MERC is divided into three departments. The explorers, the tech nerds, and the paper pushers. Mine and Serena's departments are equal, but the paper pusher's are a lot higher up them us. All because they know how to work people. I deal with the manual stuff like atmosphere readings, multiverse mapping, ect. Serena deals with the tech like portal projector maintenance, software and hardware crap, making sure I don't screw anything up on my end. The paper pushers deal with everything else like figuring out the trade system, dealing with other politicians, basically the boring stuff I can never bring myself to do." I explained.
"What about the Event line? I remember Serena mentioning that." Ruby asked.
"Think of it as a set line where certain events are suppose to happen and will happen in a particular universe. Let's say Yang had her arm sliced off as a hypothetical example. Normally one would think that they could change it if given the chance. If it is a major point on the Event line, it will happen. May not be right away, could take a few years. But one way or another, it will happen. Sometimes the effect could snowball and become worse, like losing her legs as well her arm. Another example is if you and Jaune get together, as more then just friends. No matter what me or anyone else outside your universe tries, you two will fall in love and 'hook up' as it were. It is basically a set in stone series of events that will happen. Theorized to be key for the stability of some universes." I answered remembering the crash course I had to take on the Event lines. "Now I have heard rumor, that it is possible to give an Event line the middle finger, and change it to your favor. I myself have never done so, nor do I know how. Heard it is extremely rare and hard to do, but possible and dangerous. It's something MERC has been keeping an eye on since it first started."
Ruby hummed accepting the answer. I think I pleased her curious mind. The multiverse is a interesting topic to talk about, especially when one works with it every day of their lives. I had to learn some of those topics the hard way. Mainly with the Event line. I tried my best to save CT, but ended up getting her killed in an even worse way. Instead of Tex laying the killing blow, I accidentally did instead. Turns out I accidentally hit her into the back of a fallen tomahawk and severed her spinal cord from the bottom of the rib cage down, as well as ruptured several major and vital organs with said punch. Bioscan told me I ruptured her liver, kidneys, spleen, left lung, and severely damaged her heart. In short terms, I made her death a whole lot more painful then it needed to be. I was too deep in shock to notice the leader kicking me into Tex and Carolina. Man were they pissed that day. Carolina wouldn't talk to me for three weeks and Tex wasn't as merciful.
She talked the Director into throwing all the blame on me. I ended up cleaning the ships latrine with a moldy toothbrush, used dental floss, and outdated floor cleaner. Rhode helped but even then it took hours. That was until Maine used it right after we were just done. Let me make one thing clear right now. He is not human, no human can make something that smells so horrific and foul. Saying it smelled like shit wouldn't come anywhere close. I'll put it this way, mustard gas would be a more humane way to die compared to what Maine produced. South passed out from just a single whiff. That alone says enough. We needed our helmet filters for damn sure there. Bright side, Rhode and I bonded more. Bad side is not in any way anyone would want to. If she is able to stick beside me though THAT, there is very little that will make that woman give up on someone! If that isn't a best friend then I don't know what is.
"What was that sound?" Velvet asked. I quickly shook myself free from my train of thought. Man I really need to stop zoning out. Going to get me killed one of these days.
"Velvet what do you hear?" I asked listening to the world around me. I couldn't pick up much over the Hog's engine. Normal wind blowing by, water running from a near by river, distant sound of multiple roars . . . wait a second. Tell me my hearing is off but do I hear roars, as in more then one!
"Hate to be the barrer of bad news, but I think we might want to leave for home soon. Seems like the local winged inhabitant really want us dead." Oobleck observed over the short wave radio as Jaune's turret started going off. Quick glance to the sky behind me was all I needed to see. Flying though the skies was not one, not two, but at least TWENTY freaking dragons of various shapes and sizes. One we can take easy, two at once maybe with a little trouble. Three or four would be cutting it close. But twenty! I know we got the ammo for it in Jaune's turret, but I'm not even stupid enough to fight twenty at once. Not without sufficient back up or support.
"Trip is being cut short. Cole get that portal up now!" I ordered slamming the gas pedal, swerving to avoid a blast of ice breath. Ruby held on for dear life as I slammed on the gas and swerved back and forth to throw off the Dragon's aim. I'm not worried about waking Elaia up at this point. I'm more interested in keeping her alive. Plus she is a heavy sleeper at this point. A nuclear bomb going off won't wake her up, yet someone so much as mentioning sweets will snap her out of the deepest food induced coma. Velvet is back there to keep her calm, I'd hate to be the one to explain this to her.
"One second Johnny, need to remember which RWBY universe they came from. That region is kind of clustered." He said.
"American anime sector zero six, region two two, universe one nine eight one! Get us the hell out of here!" I yelled As Another dragon swooped down and laid a line of fire right beside my vehicle. "Break off and join up back home. We can't take them all at once. Try to stop them from clustering up on us. Close the portal is we take too long. Ruby, fire at will. Try keeping them off out back for as long as you can." I ordered. Couldn't hear what she said, but the noticeable sound of Crescent Rose going off in gun form is all I needed to hear right now.
"Any idea why so many have decided to grow a pair and attack all at once? This isn't normal dragon behavior here." Cole asked over the radio as the sound of Jaune's turret blasting away filled the air around us.
"I have a Dragonborn in the back seat. A child at that no less. You tell me why they would attack a group with their biggest enemy in it. You got three guesses." I responded swerved right to avoid the winds of a Blood Dragon fire breath dive bomb. I drew my pistol and off loaded a few rounds into it's sorry hide as it flew off. They did shit but at least he knows we're not going down without a fight. I banked a hard left to avoid slamming into the body of another dragon. Ruby wanted no time before releasing a high powered round into it's head. How do I know it was high powered, because the thing now is missing an eye and has a new hole on the other side of it's head.
"One more second . . . just a little more . . GOT IT! Portal up!" Cole yelled as a blue portal erupted right in front of me. I barely had time to slam on the breaks before speeding inside. The rich night time atmosphere Skyrim usually gave off quickly changed to the sunny courtyard at Beacon. I spun the wheel as hard as I could to the left. The tires squealed and groaned as they strained to stop the massive beast from seventy plus miles and hour. Students ran out of the way as we skirted sideways across the yard. Before finally slamming the entire left side of the vehicle into the side of the school due to lack of space needed to stop safely. The Hog was practically embedded in the wall as two right wheels were hanging in the air. Damn it that hurts.
"Everyone alright?" I asked. The vehicle groaned as we slammed back on all four wheels. Ruby's airbag went off and we lost the young reaper in a massive cloud of white. She moaned in pain as she pushed the mass of cloth out of her face.
"You're never driving us anywhere again. EVER!" Ruby noted as she fell outside to the ground, kissing it like it was going to leave her.
"You okay back there honey?" I asked looking back behind me. Velvet was on the floor holding her head in agony. While Elaia gigged her head off.
"Let's do that again." She declared.
"NO!" Ruby and Velvet yelled in unison as several students ran up to see how we were doing.
"Wait a second. . . . where's the others? They were right behind us." Ruby asked looking around. I shut my mouth and looked around Oobleck's car should have followed shortly. They should be here by now. Time difference between universes isn't that much. What is taking them so long.
(Cole's POV)
Well this is just fan-freaking-tastic. We're surrounded on all possible sides by Dragons, or are they Wyvrens? I can never tell. Blondie was busy blasting away on his turret, Coffee man was at the wheel trying to dodge and avoid the endless torment of fire and ice. In simple terms, we're in the middle of a rapidly growing shit storm filled to the brim with surprises. Oh how I love Skyrim. Why did I suggest we come here in the first place. . . oh right. Birthday gift. Now I remember.
"We're not going to last much longer out here." Coffee man noted as the car bounced up and down from the uneven terrain. Oh yeah, torture my poor suspension why don't you. It's just a fifty thousand credit vehicle. It's beyond easy and cheap to fix.
"Who has some meat they'd like to throw to distract the sharks while we make a run for it?" I joked as we narrowly avoided a ice attack from one of said sharks. I can't fight these things. It would be twenty powerful badass dragons vs one insane dimension jumper. Not too good of odds if I do say so myself. I'd win but I like keeping my ass in one piece. Had it bit off ninety too many times. We've been trying for the past ten minutes to get back but we're cut off by a well placed fire or ice carpet bomb. Damn these things are cleaver.
"We just need something or someone to distract them right?" Jaune asked from his turret blasting away.
"Yeah but it's just a joke. None of us have anything they'll be interested in. aside from our charred hides." I replied smacking a Dragon with the blunt end of my Boe staff as it tried to chop down on us. "NO! Bad dragon! This is not a snack. No treats for you!"
"Could you do me a small favor them." He asked as I smacked another one, or was it the same one? They all look the same so I can't tell.
"What is that?" I asked as something landed on my lap. Right off the bat I noticed two things. One was the sword and shield/sheath combo the boy carries, then a large bag. Tell me this kid isn't planning on doing what I think he's doing.
"Promise me you'll give Crocea Mors back to my family, and tell everyone that I'm sorry." He asked stepping on the back guard rail out the turret nest.
"Kid don't!" I yelled trying to grab on to him. But I was too late, he had already jumped off the back of the turret and rolled across the ground, blazing sword one hand, red energy one in the other. My portal wasn't too far in front of us. Oobleck tried to turn around but the turn was too tight and we were going too fast. The Dragons broke off from our car just in time as we slammed into the portal, but not before giving us a fare well fire blast as the portal closed shut.
We blasted off in a plethora of flames. The left two tires squealed across the ground as the right two dangled high up in the air, I clenched onto the 'OH SHIT' bar as we went in for a tumble. My poor car vaulted in the air from the front end slamming into a fountan, spinning in mid air over the heads of several Atlas students before we slammed right back to the ground hard. Finally stopped tumbling when we slammed into the side of a rather large tree, warping the frame of my beloved vehicle around the seemingly indestructible piece of nature, turret landed not too far from us with the barrels sticking in the ground bent. Thank the maker I installed airbags in these things. Oobleck was the first to get out. He tumbled out in a coughing fit. Several people ran to our help. Goodwitch was the faster of the bunch as she helped him up. I got out by my own means, climbing over the seat and wobbling in the court yard.
"GOD MOTHER FUCKING DAMN IT! She's totaled!" I swore over looking my precious baby. No way in hell I cam fix this. Not even going to list what is damaged. Shorter list would be what is salvageable. "Son of a bitch! I still had three more payments left on her. FUCK!"
"What happened over there? Where's Mister Arc?" Goodwitch asked uncharacteristically concerned. Oobleck held onto her for support as he got up. Obviously still in shock from everything.
"You know the Wyvrn nest we took out in Vacuo all those years ago? S class Grimm, only for the highest ranked hunters and huntresses?" He asked coughing. Goodwitch nodded. "We had like twenty of something similar right behind us. We were well beyond over run and forced to come back early."
"Where's Jaune?" Pyrrha asked rushing over to us. Johnny and the gang weren't far behind. How are we going to explain this one. He ain't dead yet, I know that for a fact.
"Jaune. . . well you see about Mister Arc . . . well he kind of . ." Oobleck sputtered avoiding certain words. Oh for the love of pete.
"In understandable words. Jaune is still in Skyrim." I bluntly explained. "We couldn't get back without one of the dragons blocking the way, so he jumped off the turret to distract them."
"You mean Jaune's . . .?" Pyrrha asked.
"He's not dead yet., but he's lost to the horrors of Skyrim now." I sleepily replied holding up his weapon and bag. Tumbling out of the bag was a lone piece of jewelry. A silvery Circlet, one with only a single name etched into the inside band. Weiss Schnee. "I believe he wanted to give that to Ice queen." with that, I passed out from a combination of three things. Exhaustion; both mental and physical. All that mead finally kicking, and coming down from an extreme adrenaline high. Damn I love yet hate Skyrim.
Jaune's POV
(A/N What, you thought I was going to leave it like this. I'm an asshole, not a monster. I'll let you all know Jaune's fate instead of being forced to guess.)
"Alright world! Do your fucking worst! Because I just did mine!" I roared holding both swords out in defiance to the onslaught before me. This has got to be the stupidest thing I have ever thought of, but it needed done. Somone needed to distract these beasts. Piping hot tears ran down my cheeks as the torment of scales, bone, and teeth circled around me. Blowing my ear drums out with a deafening roar. I kept my feet firm and held strong. So this is how I go down. Hopelessly out numbered, far from home, all alone, more then likely going to be a painful and horrific death now that I think of it. Just how I always pictured my end going. But at least my sacrifice means my friends will live to see another day. I'm not going to sugar coat it. I'm terrified right now. Not because of what will happen if I lose, but if I win. I'm trapped here with no where to go, no one to run to. Now I know how Johnathan felt when he worked for MERC. Who in their right mind would willingly relive this feeling over and over again? It's absolute hell!
One hand, the sword that nearly killed me last month. Kept it originally to remind me of how close to death I came, now I see how ironic it is. Using the very weapon that nearly killed me to protect myself. In my other hand, the sword the Whiterun Jarl gave me. No idea how it works, nor do I know how to duel wield. But I am about to find out real quick if I want to survive the next five minutes.
The first one barreled in forward me. Thanks to Pyrrha's additional training, I was able to dodge it and get a slice in with the flaming sword. The second one shouted a line of fire where I was not even a second ago. I turn quickly and clipped a bit off it's tail. The third one laid down a thick line of ice inches away from me. I turned and was able to get the energy blade though it's head as it passed, right on time to be set on fire by a fourth one.
I'll keep the description brief and say I now have a new found respect for the fire department. My Aura kept the worst of the fire from killing me, but it did nothing about the pain. Like a massive rug burn running all though my body. I shielded my eyes and slashed wildly. I think I hit something if the tell tale pained roar and blood splattering on me was anything to go by. I moved my arm to see that I did hit something. That something was the eye of a seriously ticked off Dragon looking right at me. It's lone amber eye was staring directly at me with burning hatred, right before it launched me back with a Shout. I tumbled over the ground and lost my fire sword in the process. I was barely up before another one grabbed me by my shoulders an flew off. Talons sinking into my skin, yet still not breaking though my Aura. I groaned in pain as I looked down. Nothing but yellow grass and rocks. Even if I had full Aura, the fall will still hurt like there is no tomorrow. Well from my point of view right now, I might not live to even see tomorrow. The flocks of dragons screeched fire and bellowed ice into the air around me. I was frantically swinging my remaining blade at what ever dragon got too close. Got a few nicks on their heads, but not enough to kill one. I think I'm going to be sick.
"Well Jaune, you did always say you wanted to go sky diving. Figured it would be after I cured my motion sickness." I told myself as my demented host decided this was a good spot to let go of me. I wildly swing my limbs as I fell though the air, closing my eyes so I don't gets a bug stuck in my eye. Barely able to hear my own screams, two thoughts came to my mind right then and there.
1. If I somehow survive this, and somehow make it back home in one piece. I'm kissing Pyrrha for trying to hard to train me right. Probably won't matter in the next three seconds.
2. I'M GOING TO FREAKING DIE!
I regret a lot of things looking back on my life. I regret not trying harder in class. I regret not doing something about Cardin early on. I regret not seeing Pyrrha's advances earlier. But at this very moment, the biggest things I regret is, not coming up a landing strategy by now. This is the second time I've been hurled though the air this year. I seriously need to figure one out by now.
I peaked one eye open to see what I was going to land on. Small inn like structure directly below me. With any luck I'll land on the beds. I know I'm not that lucky. Knowing my luck I'll fall right into the fire pit. Into someone's soup to be a kick in the teeth. Not even five hundred feet below me. I closed my eyes and prepared for the inevitable death that will follow. I pray to Monty it will be quick.
(Third person POV)
Inn directly under Jaune.
*Insert evil laugh here*
"One room please." A soft female voice asked. In front of the counter was a young Breton woman, no older then twenty winters. Clean blonde hair flowed past her shoulders, with pink flowers decorated in it. Worn leather armor held on barely by theads. Sky blue eyes shouldered the weight of endless nights of no sleep. Mirai was tired, hungry, and desprite for a place to rest her weary feet. She'd been traveling for three days straight. Camping gear long past destroyed. Seperated from her only friend. She has been forced to find her own way home to Markarth. Lot easier said then done with the Forsworn blocking every known route into the city.
"Sure thing. It's yours for the day." The old inn owner said taking the small sum of gold from the young girl, showing her to her temporary room. Wasn't anything fancy by any stretch of the imagination. Two simple straw beds, chest to hold her belongings in, dresser to set her lone dagger on to. Not much but what would one expect for ten gold a day. "Just ask if you need anything." the old woman informed closing the door behind her. First thing the young Breton did was kick off boots and collaspse on the rough bedding. She had been though one hell of a fight to get here. Her Magicia levels were low, body felt like it would break with the slightest breeze, and her feet needed a rest.
"Almost home Mirai, just another day's trip." She told herself unslugging her worn out pack. "I got enough supplied to hold me over till then. As long as nothing major happens between then and now, I should be fine." She quickly ate those words when the roof over the spare bed shattered and something landed though the same bed.
"OW! MY EVERYTHING HURTS!" Jaune yelled at the top of his lungs.
Hold the pitchforks and torches! Don't kill me yet angry mob! I warned you someone would be lost to Skyrim, and let's face it. Jaune would make that sacrifice given the chance. He was willing to go up to help Pyrrha fight a Fall Madien. (Season 3 Spoilers) Had it not been for Pyrrha shoving him in a locker and shooting him off to safety, I have no doubt he would have jumped in front of the arrow that wounded Pyrrha. So is he gone for good. I can confirm he will be back. When is a entirely different story. I have had a Skyrim story in mind for Jaune. This will give me the chance to write it when I finish the ones I am working on now. Sorry Arkos Shippers, your ship has sunk. Now time to answer a few reviews.
Guest: Nice joke. Gave me a good laugh
Warwolf82: I agree it is sad for Maine. I am pretty much working with a Blank slate Pre-Freelancer wise. Will he get with Neo, I won't say when but you'll be laughing on how.
Le MAO XVII: Easter egga are from all around the multiverse. Not just in one genre or series. As for your OC, I'll consider it. Got a long while before this is over. I can confirm I am ending this at season 3. Season 4 and up I might dive into, but not in this story. Sequal maybe if the demand is high enough then.
CHUCHDIEES: (Spoilers much) I'll do that next time he shows up.
WetworkzNinja: sending the file over now. Doc manages is acting up on my end so a few words may be misspelled or out of place. Don't ask me why, I don't know. Part of the reason this took so long.
Dspenddragon125: I agree with that statment. While the Spartan IV's may have better armor. The III's have better training and the II's have better training, augmentation and nearly thirty years more combate experience intheir augmented bodies then the IV's. Both their armor may be inferior to the IV's but in the end; fancy armor won't stop an ass kicking by the Master Chief or Lucy-B091. Enough said about both.
That's it for tonight. I'm heading to bed. Sending this off to my Beta reader. Good luck and have fun with this nightmare.
~Dgreen20
(Insert Beta notes here)