Chapter 20: Haven Bound
Last Time Jason was recovering from being poisoned, but in his unconscious state, he had a vision of Salem and her creation, in response, Mura went to tell this to Ozpin and with information regarding Team JNPR's experience on their mission had deduced that Salem had taken Jason's blood.
Meanwhile, Mura was captured by Raven on the way back from Vale but was saved not to long after his capture, but when he arrived home, he told his students that his life would soon come to an end. What happens next now!
"You're going to die!?" Jason yelled.
"But that can change right nothings written in stone?" Jason asked.
"I can't say Jason but my visions only show me the events in the future that I will be alive to see I knew one day that my death will come and I can see no other visions beyond this one so it's highly likely that nothing can change my fate," Mura explained.
"But there has to be something we can do isn't there?" Evan questioned.
"Don't worry, my students. I still have lots of life still left in me, and I don't plan on dying anytime soon. Even so, I have lived a long life and have no regrets when I die." Mura comforted his two students.
Jason didn't want to believe it at first, but he felt the truth in Mura's words he was going to lose another person close to him, but this time at the very least he would be somewhat prepared, though he still wanted to do everything in his power to stop Mura from dying. Two weeks had passed since Mura's announcement, and everything had mostly gone back to normal though the weight of the announcement still lingered in the air.
Jason had spent most of his time either training, eating, hanging out with Evan and Mura as well as his other friends, or spending time alone with Neo. He didn't fully understand why she wanted to spend so much time alone with him, but he didn't mind he enjoyed being alone with Neo, though he didn't fully know why. Currently, he had accompanied her to a nearby village to help her pick out some new clothes, though he didn't know why she wanted his opinion on clothes.
Though the memory of his conversation with Mura kept playing in his head. So much that Jason almost didn't realize that Neo was talking to him. Snapping back to reality, Jason looked at the new pair of clothes Neo picked out.
"What do you think about this?" Neo questioned as she held up another set of clothes. These seemed similar to her original set though they exposed the shoulders.
"I think they look pretty good," Jason answered.
"That's what you've said about each one I've picked," Neo replied, giving Jason an annoyed look.
"Well, I think they all look good on you," Jason said, making Neo blush.
"Thanks, I guess, but which do you like the most?" Neo asked. Jason still didn't know why she cared for his opinion so much on this matter, but since he was here, he might as well give her an answer.
"I'd say the most recent one," Jason answered. Neo smiled as she put the other clothes back and purchased her new pair as they left the store. They walked around the village for a while, stopping by some shops and getting some food.
"This isn't too bad, I guess, but why does Neo want to do all this stuff?" Jason wondered. After another hour of walking around, they decided to get a full-on meal at a local tavern in the village.
"Now that I think about it, Evan did give me a funny look as if he thought something was up. Wait, he doesn't think we're on a date, does he?! But now that I think about it from what Evan told me, this is what people do on a date." Jason thought.
"No, that's not it. We're just two friends having fun." Jason concluded. As he and Neo finished their food, they paid and left contacting Kai to pick them up.
"Today was fun, though. I am still confused about why you wanted me to help you pick out clothes." Jason said as they waited.
"Well, if you weren't so dense, you'd figure it out." Neo teased.
"What's that supposed to mean?" Jason asked.
"Don't worry about it." Neo smiled. As he tried to wrap his head around what Neo said, Kai arrived and brought the two back to the top of the mountain.
"Thanks, Kai." Jason thanked.
"Whatever, see ya later, maggot," Kai replied as he left.
"Well, would you like me to walk you back to your room, Neo?" Jason asked.
"No, thanks, see ya later," Neo answered as she walked off.
"He still doesn't understand." Neo thought as she let out an inaudible sigh. Jason walked over to Mura's room to check up on him, but before he could knock, Evan exited the room and motioned him to be silent.
"He just fell asleep don't want to wake him," Evan whispered. Jason nodded, and the two walked away to converse with one another.
"So, how was your date?" Evan asked.
"It wasn't a date Neo just wanted my opinion on which clothes she should get," Jason replied.
"And why do you think she wanted your opinion?" Evan asked.
"Because I'm her friend, maybe her best friend now that I am thinking about it since she never had a friend save Torchwick," Jason answered.
"My friend, you have a lot to learn about romance." Evan teased, getting an elbow in the stomach from Jason.
"So, how's Mura?" Jason asked.
"He's fine. He's the same as he's always been if he's going to die of old age it doesn't show." Evan explained.
"That just leads further to death through battle, but what?" Jason wondered.
"Who knows, but it's not going to happen." Evan declared determined to not let his master's vision come true.
"Yeah, you're right, but for now, all we can do is wait until we find out what it is," Jason said as they split up to turn in for the night. As Jason entered his room, he thought on to his days as a child growing up with his mother and how she had died on a mission never to return home.
When the news came to him, he was devastated and refused to leave his house for a whole month before he went to find Kai. He had felt so powerless that he could do nothing to help her and that he didn't stop her from going on her mission, but over time he learned to move on. Since then, he has made many new friends and people that he could call his family, but he still didn't want to have someone else close to him die once again.
"Well, it's not going to happen this time, not if I have anything to say about it." Jason thought as he went to bed.
White Fang Headquarters...
Adam Taurus wiped the blood off of his blade as some of the members of the White Fang loyal to him took the body of Sienna Khan away. He with the help of Watts and Hazel, he broke into White Fang headquarters and assassinated Sienna Khan, making it look as if she was killed by a human who broke in.
"Looks like you were true to your word and helped me become high leader, so what now?" Adam questioned.
"In one week gather as much of the White Fang as you can with some explosives. Once you do, we will storm Haven Academy by surprise in the middle of the night during the break leaving it in ruins and destroying the CCT tower. I think that will send a message to humans everywhere." Watts explained.
"Sounds like a plan but I don't think they'll be as scared of us as they are of the people from the Battle of Gods did and speaking of the battle many will not follow me even though I am now the high leader they'll be too afraid of them," Adam commented.
"We'll make sure to attract a good amount of Grimm to help bring some fear into the people, and even if you don't have much support, it's the loyal ones who will fight the hardest." Watts Assured.
"Fine, but what will you both be doing?" Adam asked.
"We will be in Haven Academy taking care of some personal business. Don't worry, we will aid you as soon as it's done," Hazel answered.
"Alright, one last thing, what is your plan if one of those quote on quote gods come?" Adam asked.
"There is no need to worry. Our boss is currently making something that will take them out." Hazel explained.
"That's what you said last time, well you better be right, or this is the last I or anyone in the White Fang will be working with you," Adam stated as he took a seat on Sienna Khan's old throne. Hazel and Watts left Adam and the compound and only stopped when they were a reasonable distance away.
"Was it a good idea, Hazel giving the boy false hope about fighting those children, the mistress has yet to finish her work on this new creation of hers?" Watts asked.
"It was the only way he would agree Watts, plus with the news of Sienna Khan's death by a human more faunus will take arms," Hazel answered.
"But on the subject, what is your opinion on her new creation?" Hazel questioned.
"I would never question our mistress's decision though I am concerned about her almost obsession with this creature she is creating, it seems like it's eating away at the darkness around the Grimm lands since she brought it there. Grimm have been very slow to be created since it came." Watts answered.
"Whenever I see that cocoon it sends a cold shiver down my spine, I feel like whatever is growing in there is nothing that will benefit us or our mistress," Hazel explained.
"Yes, it is unsettling, but our mistress has been in control of the Grimm for hundreds of years this one shall be no different," Watts replied as they continued on to return to Salem.
Salem's Domain...
Salem stood still as she watched her creation convulse within its cocoon, which now was the size of the cave wall it was attached to. Behind her, Mercury, Emerald, and Tyrian stood with the first two disturbed at the sight of the cocoon. It pulsed with both power and life slowly growing with every passing second due it drawing power from the Grimm pools.
"It's magnificent, my mistress." Tyrian complimented.
"Yes but what else do you see, what do you all see when you look at it, be truthful?" Salem asked.
"I see the power to take out the kingdoms with ease to make sure no one questions your rule," Tyrian answered.
"I see a monster that will threaten anyone who stands in our way or its way." Mercury stuttered, frightened at what would come out of this cocoon.
"I…I see…" Emerald began. The very sight of the cocoon had made her blood turn cold as she was too frightened to speak.
"I see death." She finally uttered.
"Interesting," Salem replied as she turned to look at Emerald.
"I, for one, see possibility and beauty. With this, I shall take destiny into my own hands, and nothing will get in my way." Salem announced as she turned to look back onto her creation.
"When Watts and Hazel return you two shall accompany them to find the spring maiden, thanks to the virus still in the CCT in Vale, we've intercepted a message from Qrow Branwen with her possible location," Salem said getting their attention once more.
"What about me, mistress?" Tyrian asked.
"Patience Tyrian, your time will come once we storm Haven," Salem answered as she turned to leave the chamber.
Soon Tyrian and Mercury joined her, leaving Emerald alone with the Cocoon unable to move. She was afraid it felt just like the time when they were attacked by the Tuffle. That day she was frozen in fear, and because of that, Cinder died, but if she stays with Salem, she'll get her revenge. After being able to move once more, Emerald left the room, leaving the Cocoon by itself.
Menagerie...
Blake stood nervous in front of two large doors, how many years has it been since she had last been here, she didn't know, but she was here now. "It's okay. We're here for you." Yang encouraged.
Blake nodded, looking at Yang and her other two teammates behind her as she knocked on the door to her home in Menagerie. It was the break between semesters, and Blake had wanted to visit her parents in Menagerie to apologize for running away with the White Fang and to ask for advice.
"Be right there." Said a voice belonging to a woman from the other side of the door. The door swung open, revealing Blake's mother, Kali Belladonna, who stood shocked at the sight of her daughter.
"Blake?!" Kali questioned, not believing what she saw.
"Hi, Mom." Blake greeted soon receiving a hug from her mother.
"I'm so happy to see you!" Kali exclaimed as Blake returned her mother's hug.
"You should have told me you were coming. I would have prepared for you." Kali said as she turned and noticed Blake's teammates.
"Oh, and you brought guests now I feel just embarrassed." Kali gasped, giving a little laugh.
"Hi there." Ruby greeted, giving a small wave.
"Mom, this is my team from school they wanted to come with me when I returned." Blake introduced her team.
"It's a pleasure to meet all of you, come in!" Kali insisted as she let them into her home.
"Ghira come here there are some people here to see you!" Kali announced. The group heard heavy footsteps from deeper inside the house as a large man came from around a corner.
"I don't have much time who has come, Kal…" But before he could finish, Ghira laid eyes on his daughter and rushed over to embrace her in a hug.
"I'm so happy to see you!" Ghira exclaimed.
"That's what Mom said." Blake teased. Ghira canceled all of his meetings and sat down with Blake and her teammates to talk about how things have been since they last met.
"So you left the White Fang and enrolled at Beacon. You weren't hurt during the Battle of Gods, were you?" Ghira asked as Kali brought tea for everyone.
"Is that seriously what everyone's calling that fight?" Blake questioned.
"To answer your question, dad, I was hurt a little, for we actually participated in that fight though it was under the stadium away from the cameras, but thanks to everyone being together, I was fine," Blake explained. Ghira was shocked to hear that his own daughter took part in such a fight but was happy that she was okay.
"I see that's good to hear, thank you all for helping my daughter." Ghira thanked bowing a little to the rest of Team RWBY.
"It's no problem. She's our friend, and friends are always there to have each other's backs." Yang replied.
"I'm glad to see my daughter making friends, even human ones, and a Schnee no offense miss." Ghira voiced.
"None taken, I understand I hate how my family has treated the faunus personally," Weiss replied.
"Are you sure you okay Blake they seemed really strong?" Kali asked.
"Yes, like I said I wasn't alone, I had help from my friends," Blake answered.
"Yeah, in the end, we kicked their butts!" Ruby exclaimed.
"Well, I wouldn't say that it was very close." Blake thought.
"If you participated in the fight, there does that mean you know the people who were broadcasted?" Ghira asked.
"Yes, we're very good friends to the people who defeated the man who took over the Vytal Festival," Blake answered.
"Really, what are they like with that much power?" Ghira questioned.
"They're just like any other person, Dad, nothing too special except for their powers," Blake answered.
"Really, it's hard to imagine people with that kind of power being just normal," Ghira commented.
"Right, but in reality, they weren't gods but…people," Ruby replied, not wanting to reveal Jason's alien origins.
"So, what brings you home after so long?" Kali asked.
"Well, it's been a while, and I wanted to…to apologize for leaving and not talking to you guys when I stayed with the White Fang." Blake stuttered. Ghira and Kali looked surprised at what Blake had said, and both smiled and held onto Blake's hand.
"There's nothing to be sorry about, dear. We never blamed or hated you for leaving us, and we were always proud of you and still are." Kali reassured her daughter.
"See nothing to worry about just like we said," Yang commented, patting Blake in the back.
"There was also another reason I came here to talk to you both," Blake stated.
"What is it dear?" Kali asked.
"It's about the White Fang, though lately, they've been laying low. But they were planning an attack on Vale before the Vytal Festival, and I don't think they'll stop completely, and I just want to do something about it," Blake explained.
"Well, personally, I can't say what to do, dear I haven't interacted much with the White Fang since I stepped down only speaking with them during key times like that stunt they tried to pull in Vale." Ghira began.
"But I'd say try to speak some sense into faunus everywhere to reject the violence led by the White Fang and try to live in peace with the humans like you have Blake," Ghira suggested.
Blake was happy with that answer and gave her father a smile in response. Suddenly Ghira's scroll went off as he looked at who was calling. He excused himself real quick to take the call. While he was gone, Blake and the rest of Team RWBY recounted their time at Beacon and Haven to Kali, who was deeply interested in what they had to tell. When Ghira did return, he had a grave expression on his face having received some serious news.
"Is something wrong, Dad?" Blake asked.
"I just got word that Sienna Khan was assassinated by a human," Ghira answered as he returned to the room.
"What, but who would do that?" Blake asked.
"We don't know the assailant is said to have escaped and at large," Ghira said.
"Wait, who is Sienna Khan?" Ruby asked.
"Sienna Khan is the high leader of the White Fang who took over after I stepped down," Ghira explained.
"But if she's dead, who's the high leader?" Blake questioned.
"Adam Taurus," Ghira answered.
"What!" Blake shouted.
"Is something wrong, dear?" Kali asked, concerned by her daughter's sudden outburst.
"How could they make Adam leader he'll just make the White Fang even more violent," Blake stated. The tension was high in the Belladonna household as Blake explained Adam's increased violent nature before she left the White Fang.
"This is troubling I will take a deeper look into it, for the meantime while I would love for you to stay news will travel fast about her death in Menagerie, and the people won't take kindly to any humans who are here," Ghira said as he looked at the other members of Team RWBY.
Just like Ghira had said, the people of Menagerie were not happy about the news of Sienna Khan's death and began to take to the streets. To avoid any confrontation, Team RWBY snuck through Menagerie safely, returning to the ship they came on.
"Well, that is the worst way to end a reunion," Yang complained as the ship departed.
"What does this mean that this Adam is now high leader of the White Fang, do you think they'll start doing what they did in Vale but somewhere else?" Ruby asked.
"I don't know but what I do know is that this is anything but good, ever since Vale, when we stopped that attack before it could even start the White Fang, have been quiet, but if Adam is in charge they're going to become much more violent more so than ever before," Blake explained.
"But will they act on anything ever since the, and I can't believe I'm calling it this, Battle of Gods things have been quiet but not just for the White Fang crime in many kingdoms has gone down over fear of Jason and the others?" Weiss questioned.
"That's true. I doubt that if Adam does try anything, he won't get much support due to the fear, but I'm sure he'll have something." Blake explained.
"One thing I do know is that I need to find a way to make sure the faunus don't try to follow in the footsteps of the White Fang if they become even more violent," Blake said.
"What should we do?" Yang asked.
"We should warn Ozpin and some of the other higher-ups just in case the White Fang does plan an attack somewhere," Ruby said.
"Let's head back to Haven to contact Ozpin," Yang suggested. The entire team was in agreement very cautious about what the future could hold for them.
Vale...
Ozpin stood still deep in thought as he contemplated the news he just received from Team RWBY. Though there was no evidence that the White Fang was planning anything, he knew something was in the works if they were aligned with Salem.
Qrow found out that his sister was possibly in possession of the spring maiden, and he knew it wouldn't be long before Salem found this out as well. This would mean that Salem's next target would most definitely be Haven, as Qrow predicted if she were to get her hands on the spring maiden.
"If she is going to attack Haven now would be the time since the students are away on break, barely anyone would be in her way to stop her. If this is the case, I should make sure that I have people strong enough for anything Salem sends to Haven." Ozpin thought.
Ozpin took out his scroll from his pocket and dialed up Qrow. "What's up, Oz do you have any new updates?" Qrow asked.
"In a sense, I believe you were right, and Salem is going to attack Haven soon, so I want you to ask Mura and his students to go to Haven to help just in case and assist Teams RWBY and JNPR in their training," Ozpin explained.
"Alright, I'll do it, but afterward, we need to make a plan on getting the spring maiden from Raven," Qrow explained.
"I understand, thank you, Qrow," Ozpin replied as he hung up. Once he hung up, he felt that once again, something bigger than Salem was looming over the horizon, he just hoped that the feeling was wrong.
Kai's Mountain...
"Simple attacks aren't going to work. You're going to need to change it up a bit." Jason advised as he dodged attacks from Neo's Hush left and right.
In response, Neo once again jabbed at Jason with Hush though he easily dodged the attack this time she opened Hush taking him by surprise. Knocking him back, Neo took the opening to land several more blows on Jason until he readjusted and put some distance between him and her. Jason stood straight, wiping a small bit of blood from his mouth and looked at Neo, who had a smug smile on her face.
"How's that for changing it up?" Neo asked sarcastically. Jason smiled and laughed with Neo, soon joining in though her laugh was much quieter.
"Alright, I think we can stop for today and get some rest," Jason said.
"Really, I can still keep going," Neo replied.
"I know, but rest is also an important part of the training, you need to let your body adjust and rest or else you're just torturing your body by training too much," Jason explained. Neo nodded and understood what Jason meant, and the two regrouped with the others who were also finishing their training.
"While I am always up for training, do you think we need to continue doing it so often I mean at this point I think we're the strongest people on the planet who knows even stronger than this Salem chick." Evan pointed out.
"Well, you never know what may happen, so we should always be prepared, plus just because we have Ki and she doesn't is in no way mean that she's weaker, don't forget she's up to something," Jason advised.
"Oh, right, I forgot about that, guess you're right," Evan replied.
"Plus, there is always someone stronger than you out there, so don't ever think you've hit your prime," Mura explained as he approached the group with Qrow Branwen.
"Hey, there kids, how's it been?" Qrow greeted as he and Mura joined the group.
"Hello, again, Qrow." Amber returned the greeting.
"Is something going on, not that you wouldn't visit otherwise, but usually from what Ozpin said you are out looking out for any sign of Salem's forces?" Jason asked.
"That's actually why he is here," Mura answered.
"Oz and I have reason to believe that Salem and her forces are planning to attack Haven soon, and they're probably going to use the White Fang for their purposes," Qrow explained.
"What makes you guys think that?" Elias asked.
"For one apparently, the old leader of the White Fang was killed by a human, and the new leader just so happens to be more prone to violence than the previous one. According to Blake, he was near Vale just before the White Fang started criminal activity there." Qrow began.
"That makes sense back during my time with my brothers, we did find out that the White Fang was in league with some of Salem's pawns until Silas killed the leader," Elias commented.
"That just further solidifies my worries about all of this after speaking with Mura here. I confirmed the spring maiden's identity as my sister Raven." Qrow continued.
"Raven…was she the one who tried to threaten Mura for the power of Ki?" Damian asked.
"She did what?!" Qrow questioned angered at the actions of his sister.
"Oh yes, I guess I forgot to tell you that," Mura smiled as Qrow rubbed his forehead.
"Regardless, yes, that was her, and she is the only one who can unlock the vault containing the Relic of Knowledge, so Salem will be going to tempt her into joining her cause," Qrow explained.
"Okay, so you want our help then right?" Evan asked.
"Exactly, Ozpin wants you all to stay at Haven over the next month to help protect against any attacks that may occur on it and assist in training your friends," Qrow answered.
"Well, if it's to stop someone who wants to kill us all, then count me in," Damian replied. "Same here." Alex agreed.
"I think it's safe to say that we're all willing to help." Evan clarified.
"Yeah!" Everyone agreed save Jason, who stared at the ground.
"What's wrong, man, don't you want to help?" Evan asked concerned that his friend was for once, not volunteering to help.
"I do want to help but…I…I don't want what happened at Beacon to happen again," Jason answered.
"The Tuffles they attacked because of me to kill me, and now Vale is in ruins, and many people have died because of it," Jason explained.
"But that wasn't your fault besides they're gone now, save Elias, but he's on our side, and the odds of something catastrophic like that happening again is very low," Evan said to comfort him.
"Yeah, besides, we're stronger now, so we won't let something like that happen again." Elias agreed.
"I understand you blame yourself for what happened in Vale kid, but know that you can't stop everything you just got to keep moving forward even if your luck is bad," Qrow affirmed.
"He's right, plus I've always wanted to see the capital, so if I'm going, I'm taking you with me even if I have to drag you." Neo asserted.
"Alright, I'll go, but still, I'm worried about going." Jason reluctantly agreed.
"Come on, what's the worst that could happen?" Damian asked.
"Well, we never found out if those alien scouts were sent on orders or not what if reinforcements come?" Jason pointed out.
"Well yeah, but it's been a month since then you'd think they'd done something by now," Evan argued.
"Aliens?" Qrow inquired.
"It's nothing to worry about. We already informed Ozpin about it." Mura explained.
"Let me guess he didn't tell James?" Qrow questioned.
"No, while James is a good man, he is too quick to action and would most likely overreact and do something that would cause the people of Remnant to panic," Mura answered.
"Yeah, that does sound like something Ironwood would do, especially with those new toys of his." Qrow agreed.
"Alright, guess we're going to Haven, but we're going to need to get things ready before then," Jason said.
"Alright, I'm going to head over to Haven to tell the others see you later," Qrow replied as he left the mountain. Everyone then separated and went to prepare to go to Haven Academy, save Jason, who stared into the sky. Neo went to his side and got his attention to talk.
"You okay, or do I have to drag you like I said I would?" Neo asked.
"Don't worry, I'm fine, just thinking," Jason answered.
"Thinking about what?" Neo questioned.
"Just everything, I guess, ever since the Vytal Festival, I haven't even stepped foot in one of the kingdom capitals, nor have I tried to." Jason began.
"I don't know why nothing is stopping me from doing so, but maybe I'm afraid of what people will think of me or what may happen if I do go. In my entire life, I only ever been inside a kingdom capital twice once during the Mistral Annual Tournament and second when I was in Beacon, but I stayed longer in Vale." Jason began.
"Because of that, it was attacked by the Tuffles, and a lot of people died. Overall I'm afraid of history repeating itself." Jason explained. Once he finished, Neo took out her Hush and smacked him on the head.
"OW! What was that for?" Jason asked, rubbing the part of his head where Neo had hit him.
"Will you stop doing that you're making this whole thing depressing and no one wants to see that! I get it you blame yourself for everything that happened, but you need to remember that the real ones at fault were those Tuffle guys, not you!" Neo scolded.
"Plus, I'm still going, and I already know that your friends over there are just going to stare at me due to their lack of trust in me, and I'd rather have you stand up for me than your pervert friend or one of the others," Neo added.
"Sorry." Jason apologized.
"Thanks, I think I needed that, and if you need someone to lean on if my friends bother you that much, you can always come to me." Jason thanked as he went to go to get ready.
Haven Academy...
"They're coming here?!" Ruby asked, getting up into her uncle's face.
"That's right. They're coming over for extra precaution for anything Salem may send our way here." Qrow explained.
"I just can't believe the White Fang would ally themselves with such people," Blake said in slight denial.
"Don't worry, Blake, we'll make sure to set them right like your dad said we need to show the faunus that the White Fang is wrong!" Yang assured. Blake smiled happy for the sentiment her partner gave her.
"You know, even though we've faced stronger foes like the Tuffles, I'm still nervous about an assault happening here," Jaune commented.
"Well, as long as we work together, we'll be fine right. I mean, it worked when we beat those Tuffles, and we're much stronger now than we were then!" Nora exclaimed.
"She's right as long as we're together we'll be fine." Pyrrha agreed as she grabbed Jaune's hand.
"Plus, Team JADE will be here along with others just as strong there is nothing to worry about," Weiss added.
"Don't get overconfident kids just because we have people who could most likely level a kingdom single-handedly doesn't mean everything will be smooth sailing. Anything can happen in battle, and strength doesn't decide the battle." Qrow warned.
"Do you know when this attack may happen?" Ren asked.
"No idea it could happen at any point over the break, so be vigilant," Qrow answered.
"Well I should go I need to make sure we have other allies and huntsman that we can have present in case of an attack does happen," Qrow explained as he left the room.
"Wow, it seems like we're getting some action after all that doesn't involve Grimm." Yang smiled, cracking her left hand's knuckles.
"I wonder when Team JADE and the others get here, I want to put their strength to the test!" Nora exclaimed.
"It would be nice to see them after so long," Pyrrha added.
"Like we said, they're doing great, but I'm sure they still got a couple of stories to tell," Yang replied.
"You think Jason's okay the last we heard from Ozpin he was poisoned?" Ren asked.
"I'm sure he's fine. After all, he's a fighter." Weiss said.
"Yeah, Weiss is right. Besides, I think we would have been informed if his condition worsened." Yang agreed. Soon they heard the telltale sound of Kai's teleportation technique from out the window and looked out to see Team JADE and Co in the courtyard.
"They're here!" Ruby exclaimed as she used her semblance to dart out the window and in front of her friends.
"Welcome to Haven, everyone!" Ruby welcomed. Not too long after, they were joined by the rest of their friends. Everyone was eager to see each other again after so long.
"How have you all been?" Pyrrha asked.
"We've been pretty good how's everything over here?" Jason asked.
"Fine, not much has changed since we last met you guys," Yang answered.
"That's good to hear," Evan replied.
"This place looks a lot emptier in terms of space used compared to Beacon," Damian commented.
"I guess each academy suits its own needs and purposes," Elias suggested.
"So how are you feeling Jason we heard you got poisoned after the whole Jiyu Game incident?" Ruby asked.
"I'm fine. I managed to recover after a couple of days." Jason explained.
"Though you did give us a scare for a while, but Neo did take care of you, so you were in good hands," Evan added.
"Neo?" Team JNPR asked until they noticed Neo's presence behind Jason. While Team JNPR never met Neo personally, they were told about her by Team RWBY, and before they could take out their weapons, Jason defended her.
"Wait before you do anything, she's on our side now and a friend," Jason explained.
"Did you guys not tell them?" Alex asked.
"It's not a very pleasant story on our end," Yang complained.
"Can you at least give her a chance?" Damian asked.
"We will, but it's going to be hard to earn our trust," Weiss answered.
"Wasn't that hard with Elias." Evan pointed out.
"Well, he technically helped us save the world by stopping his brothers," Blake argued.
"Alright, well, just try to keep an open mind, okay," Evan suggested as they began to enter Haven.
As they continued talking and catching up with one another, the members of Teams RWBY and JNPR couldn't help but glance at Neo to make sure she didn't do anything against them. Getting annoyed, Neo walked up to Jason and grabbed onto his hand, noticing this he held onto hers to comfort her.
"Huh, are they dating?" Nora asked.
"No, but they totally like each other," Evan answered.
"Don't listen to him. He's just looking into something that's not there." Damian commented.
"You're just saying that because you bet on it not happening," Evan replied.
"So?" Damian asked.
"Wait, you guys placed bets I want in!" Nora said.
"So how are you, Mura?" Jaune asked.
"I'm doing fine, Jaune how's your training going?" Mura questioned.
"It's good, but I still haven't found my semblance," Jaune answered.
"Well, just give it time I'm sure that when it's needed most, your semblance will appear." Mura comforted Jaune, putting a hand on his shoulder.
"You sound like Pyrrha," Jaune replied.
"So would you guys like us to give you all a tour?" Ruby asked.
"Sure, but when do we start the training?" Jason asked.
"Training what training?" Yang questioned.
"Qrow said we were to help you all in your training," Evan answered.
"I guess he must have forgotten to tell us." Pyrrha sighed.
"Well, it can wait until after the tour!" Ruby exclaimed as she led Team JADE and Co through Haven and with the aid of her team and Team JNPR gave a thorough tour to them.
"Wow, when looking at this place from the outside, you wouldn't think that it's this big," Jason commented.
"Yes, but this place seems much more cultural than Beacon." Elias pointed out.
"So, how do you guys like Haven?" Ruby asked.
"It's nice though Beacon was nicer," Evan answered.
"Yeah, we like Beacon better too, but this place is also really good." Blake agreed.
"Well, there is still the combat arena, and since we're going to be training together, we saved that for last," Yang said.
"Alright, now we're getting somewhere!" Jason exclaimed as they entered the combat arena. The arena was bigger than Beacons but held fewer seats for spectating.
"Wow, not bad." Jason complimented.
"So while we're here mind showing us how strong you guys got?" Nora asked, eager to see the progress of Team JADE.
"Sure, I don't see why not though I can't really power up to full power, or else it will cause some quakes," Jason replied.
"You cause quakes when you power up?!" Weiss asked, shocked at what the boy said.
"Oh, now you have to show us!" Nora exclaimed.
"Yeah, I want to see it too. You never showed us the last time we saw each other." Ruby agreed. Jason, Evan, and Elias huddled up real quick to talk about whether or not they should do it.
"Okay, do you think it's safe to power up here?" Jason asked.
"Can't say I took a look at the structure of this building, and if we do power up here, it won't bring it down, but it will cause some cracks in the structure," Elias answered.
"Well, what if we go outside and do it, or will it cause damage to all the surrounding buildings?" Evan asked.
"I think we would be safe in the courtyard," Elias answered.
"Okay, courtyard, it is." Jason decided as they separated.
"Okay, so if we are to go anywhere near full power, we need to go outside in the courtyard and not here," Jason said.
"Alright!" Ruby and Nora shouted as they exited the building.
"Okay, who's first?" Yang asked.
"I'll go first." Evan volunteered. He stepped forward, getting a little distance from everyone until he was satisfied.
"Alright, here we go!" Evan declared. Evan let out a loud yell as he powered up with his body being surrounded by a white aura, causing the ground to shake and wind to blow at high speeds until he was at full power.
"Wow, even though I can't sense energy, I can tell you are super strong," Pyrrha commented.
"Yeah, from what Elias said, I have a power level of 220,123." Evan boasted.
"Power level, I think I remember hearing talk about that back at Beacon what is a power level?" Weiss asked.
"In the universe, many people have knowledge and control of Ki, and devices have been made to measure a person's strength with it. One of which is installed within me by Talon though it has its limits due to not many being over a certain strength, so if one is too strong, it breaks," Elias explained.
"So for Jason and also me since I can't measure my own power, we don't have a full reading on our power levels, though I assume we are relatively the same," Elias added.
"Wow, really, what's my power level?" Nora asked.
"Can't tell sorry the measurement needs Ki to pick up on to measure your power level," Elias answered.
"Aw man," Nora complained.
"Alright, who's next, then Jason or Elias?!" Ruby asked.
"I'll go next." Elias volunteered and proceeded to power up like Evan though this time, the ground shook more violently, and the wind picked up more speed, almost knocking everyone off their feet.
"Wow, that's a big difference." Yang gasped.
"Yeah, I try not to think about it and continue training to close the gap," Evan commented.
"Well, now it's Jason's turn!" Nora said as Jason took his position.
"Alright, so just to let you know without my Primal State, my power level is at 425,530," Jason stated as he began to take on his Primal State.
His hair stood up slightly and became spiky as his eyes turned yellow with red trim under his eyes, and aura became a dark orange. During his transformation, the ground beneath him began to crack, and everyone, save those on Team JADE and Co, fell onto the ground due to the high winds it created until everything settled down when Jason finished.
"Happy?" Jason asked with a big smile on his face.
"Yep, that was awesome!" Ruby exclaimed.
"Oh yeah, now that's something you don't see every day." Nora agreed as Jason powered back down.
Branwen Tribe Camp...
Raven sat alone in her tent for the tribe was currently packing up camp and preparing to move to a new location as they always did to avoid being detected by Salem. Ever since her failure in obtaining the power held by those children, she had secluded herself from the tribe ashamed at her failure and trying to make up of a plan in case running away wasn't good enough. Suddenly Vernal burst through the entrance of her tent, looking like she was in a panic.
"I asked to not be disturbed, Vernal," Raven growled.
"I know ma'am, but we have visitors demanding your presence, and it seems they work for…her," Vernal explained. Raven's eyes widened how did they find them did they know she was the spring maiden or just suspect that she had the Spring Maiden.
"I'll be right out," Raven said as she picked up her mask and put it on. She exited the tent and saw four people surrounded by her tribe, three men and one girl.
"Hello, Ms. Branwen it is a pleasure to make your acquaintance I am Arthur Watts." Watts introduced himself.
"What business do you have here I assume that it's on orders of Salem?" Raven asked.
"Straight to the point, I see we are here for the Spring Maiden," Watts answered.
"You do have her do you not?" Watts questioned.
"So we have been found out, but they don't know that it's me." Raven thought as she motioned for Vernal. Vernal stepped forward just as they planned and pretend to be the Spring Maiden to lead suspicion away from Raven.
"So, this is the Spring Maiden?" Mercury questioned.
"That's right, got a problem with that?" Vernal asked.
"No, you just don't seem the maiden type," Mercury replied.
"Yes, that she doesn't care to give us a demonstration?" Watts asked. Vernal looked at Raven, who gave her a nod, and she lifted her arms, and soon the sky darkened, and clouds surrounded them with thunder brewing around the area.
"Guess she's the real deal," Hazel commented.
"I guess so," Watts replied, but he had some doubts.
"Now, what do you want with her?" Raven asked.
"We simply wish only to borrow her, you see in one week we plan on storming Haven and wish to use the spring maiden to obtain the relic of knowledge," Watts explained.
"We will only use her for that after we get what we want, we will let you all go free," Hazel added. Raven contemplated their offer, she would never in a million years join Salem's forces, but if what they said was true, she could use this opportunity to remove themselves from the picture of Salem's plans.
"I could finally stop running from her, and nothing will bother the tribe again." Raven thought.
"But there are still those children. If I do this and they catch wind of it, they'll come after us instead." Raven further thought.
"We'll do it on two conditions." Raven began.
"Please do tell." Watts insisted.
"That once we finish this, Salem will leave us alone forever, and you take out those people from the Battle of Gods," Raven demanded.
"It's done. We were going to take care of them eventually anyway," Watts replied.
"In one week we will take you with us to our attack on Haven during the break and take the relic, see you then," Hazel stated as the group turned to leave.
"Should we follow them?" Vernal asked.
"No, leave them be," Raven ordered as she reentered her tent and took off her mask.
"That was easier than I thought it was going to be," Watts commented.
"Yes, easier than convincing Adam of fighting with us." Hazel agreed. As the two of them walked on ahead, Mercury and Emerald stayed further behind to talk.
"You're quieter than usual what's wrong with you?" Mercury asked.
"I just want this to be over so I can get back to avenging Cinder's death." Emerald hissed.
"Why do you care so much it's not like she cared about either of us if one of us had died she wouldn't have batted an eye," Mercury replied.
"Don't say that she cared for us. She was there for us." Emerald shot.
"You're just fooling yourself. We were just her pawns. The only reason I even joined her was because it gave me something to do, and it seemed like fun, we were disposable to her." Mercury stated.
"That's not true if it was then why are you even here?" Emerald asked.
"Same reason I joined up with Cinder but not revenge that could never be obtained, and I would never do it for someone who never actually cared about us only our skills," Mercury answered.
"Fine, then I'll avenge her on my own," Emerald replied as she pushed past him.
Outskirts of Remnant's Solar System...
"Lord Cooler, we will arrive at the planet known as Remnant in one week," Salza reported.
"Perfect, and you have confirmed that the Saiyan is still on the planet, correct?" Cooler asked.
"Yes, my lord, we have been monitoring the planet ever since we made course for it, and there have been no ships entering or leaving the planet," Salza answered.
"Perfect." Cooler smiled.
"Now, what of the Super Saiyan on the planet called Earth?" Cooler questioned.
"He too has not left his planet, and it seems as if Prince Vegeta has also taken refuge on that planet, meaning all the confirmed alive Saiyans are accounted for," Salza reported.
"Good and there hasn't been any more Saiyans discovered right because if anymore survived the destruction of Planet Vegeta, I'll be even angrier at my Father and Frieza's failure than I already am?" Cooler asked.
"No, sir, we thought we saw something on Planet Vampa, but no intelligent life can survive on that planet, so we ceased our search," Salza answered.
"Good now, leave me. I wish to be alone." Cooler ordered.
"Yes, Lord Cooler," Salza replied, leaving the room. Cooler stared into the endless expanse of space as his ship moved towards Remnant in deep thought, his anger and hatred over Frieza still fresh as it has always been in his mind.
"Soon, I will prove to everyone that I am the strongest in the universe." Cooler stated as he took a sip from his wine.
Two evils are approaching, and our heroes are preparing for battle beginning to train as Team JADE arrives at Haven. Will our heroes be strong enough to defeat the forces that are heading their way? One week remains until good and evil collide find out what happens Next Time!
Author's Note:
Another chapter done I hope you guys enjoyed it, now quickly to ease any confusion on power level readings I know you don't need Ki to measure power levels, like the farmer with the shotgun, for example, I just used that as an excuse so as to not have to think of a proper power level for Teams RWBY and JNPR that would actually make sense plus after this arc, I'm not even going to quote any characters power level.
Secondly, I tried a new way of making paragraphs, and I hoped you like it. If not, I will put it back to normal, but if so, I will format it like this from now on and edit the previous chapters to be like this. Finally, I would like to announce I will make a small spin-off series to this story where it has several what if one-shots don't know exactly when I will make it, but at some point, towards the end of this or the next arc it will come. Till next time!