- Location
- Florida
- Pronouns
- He
He got a bit of bri'ish blood in him, he now likes tea and whines a bit about people putting too much spice in thing.
Dust, Maidens and Oh my (RWBY/Celestial Grimoire SI)
- Thread starter Magus Explorator
- Start date
Darth Cooter
(Verified Lord of Cooters)(Dark Proprietor)(AP)
- Location
- error -loc root/users/dcooter not found
Next time Juane cooks summons breakfast... Full English Breakfast!
Now that is a proper banging breakfast that will clog the heart luv, god save Gregg's sausage rolls!Next time Juane cooks summons breakfast... Full English Breakfast!
Now is Jaune of past generation of English or current generation? Cause if it's current generation he'll need a puffer coat, a broccoli haircut and a bunch of aggression. The past generations generally matches the stereotypes more.
So, soon enough, Juane'll down t' the pub for a cold pie annacwarm beer
Eh, no bit'ta brown, no HP or Worcestershire sause, other that, that spreads shaping up nicelyNext time Juane cooks summons breakfast... Full English Breakfast!
- Location
- USA
Interesting story idea. It looks like the Grimoire powers will interface with his Aura, which I haven't seen before. Some questions, though:
Small injury barely registering makes sense, but a full TENTH of his reserves is far more than "barely registered". And if it takes that much for a scraped knee, he won't be able to do anything at all with a real injury. I thought Jaune's Aura is supposed to be potent and deep, not a tiny puddle that would be drained by almost anything.
How are his BLACK wings golden? Internal contradiction there.
Wait, what trees? I thought there was a big clearing around the town. And he was flying around, too. Was he flying through trees? Two minutes ago his flying was pretty rough! This part is very confusing and the picture you built up earlier doesn't match what's happening here.
What was it focusing on before? It's fighting one person!
Already?! I guess he really IS weak!
Uhh, he already channeled the LAST of it, so how is it "running low" when it's already empty?
I'll say that the spelling and grammar so far are very well done... but the internal inconsistencies in the story are offputting.
Is this supposed to mean something to a reader? It's just random words that have nothing to do with the ongoing story unless they're explained.
How does he know the name "Schnee"? He's been calling her "nepo-baby" in his head all along.
That... is already getting annoying to me as a reader, and doubtless to Jaune as a character. I hope it's fixed soon.
Maybe this is necessary for the story. Maybe not. But the constant digressions into ROB-scenes is kinda ruining the story for me. If every single time he gets a new power we have to have half of a chapter of some new, otherwise irrelevant super-powered being yammering at him while giving him new powers, I will probably drop the story pretty soon. It was fun once. MAYBE twice. But every time, with different entities each time, is just irritating.
... as is his sword getting all the powers rather than him. So far this story feels to me like a really cool idea diluted by some really bad implementation.
Small injury barely registering makes sense, but a full TENTH of his reserves is far more than "barely registered". And if it takes that much for a scraped knee, he won't be able to do anything at all with a real injury. I thought Jaune's Aura is supposed to be potent and deep, not a tiny puddle that would be drained by almost anything.
How are his BLACK wings golden? Internal contradiction there.
Wait, what trees? I thought there was a big clearing around the town. And he was flying around, too. Was he flying through trees? Two minutes ago his flying was pretty rough! This part is very confusing and the picture you built up earlier doesn't match what's happening here.
What was it focusing on before? It's fighting one person!
Already?! I guess he really IS weak!
Uhh, he already channeled the LAST of it, so how is it "running low" when it's already empty?
I'll say that the spelling and grammar so far are very well done... but the internal inconsistencies in the story are offputting.
Is this supposed to mean something to a reader? It's just random words that have nothing to do with the ongoing story unless they're explained.
How does he know the name "Schnee"? He's been calling her "nepo-baby" in his head all along.
That... is already getting annoying to me as a reader, and doubtless to Jaune as a character. I hope it's fixed soon.
Maybe this is necessary for the story. Maybe not. But the constant digressions into ROB-scenes is kinda ruining the story for me. If every single time he gets a new power we have to have half of a chapter of some new, otherwise irrelevant super-powered being yammering at him while giving him new powers, I will probably drop the story pretty soon. It was fun once. MAYBE twice. But every time, with different entities each time, is just irritating.
... as is his sword getting all the powers rather than him. So far this story feels to me like a really cool idea diluted by some really bad implementation.
Last edited:
- Location
- Florida
- Pronouns
- He
Probably, either it was that or something else, that plot point was decided before I started the go (and that was a little long time ago) and I have plans for Oscar, plans that him being ozpin body puppet would interrupt.
- Location
- USA
Did you word that right? His OATH is at his side? Did you mean his sword?
*sigh* And here I was hoping for something different and new, not same-old. It would've been interesting to have Jaune, Pyrrha, Yang, and Blake on a team, or something like that.
And I'm out. Thanks anyway, but this is not for me. Those digressions into void/tree space killed this for me. All they are is interruptions in the story that ruin the flow, which otherwise wasn't bad. Good luck, anyway.
Chapter 32
New
- Location
- Florida
- Pronouns
- He
"Are we there yet?" Nora asked, her voice carrying that unmistakable tone of playful impatience.
"Nope," I replied, keeping my eyes on the road ahead.
"Are you sure?" she pressed, leaning forward slightly from her spot in the back.
"Nora, you asked that ten minutes ago," Ren chimed in, his tone calm but with just a hint of exasperation.
"Yeah, and ten minutes ago, I thought we were closer!" she shot back, crossing her arms with a dramatic pout.
I chuckled, shaking my head. "We've still got a ways to go, Nora. We should reach Hallifax by tomorrow evening if everything goes smoothly."
Nora groaned and flopped back into her seat. "Tomorrow? That's forever away!"
"It's not that bad," Pyrrha said, smiling gently. "Think of it as more time to enjoy the journey."
"Enjoy the journey," Nora mimicked with a mock-serious tone before breaking into a grin. "I guess you're right. More time to bug Jaune!"
"Lucky me," I muttered, though I couldn't help but smile.
Ren, ever the voice of reason, leaned back in his seat. "We should take another day to get there, anyway. It's safer to pace ourselves, and it'll give everyone time to rest."
"Rest is overrated," Nora declared, stretching her arms out. "But fine, I guess I'll nap. Wake me up if we pass anything cool, like a giant Grimm or a pancake festival."
"Noted," I said, laughing.
As the van hummed along the quiet highway, the golden hues of the setting sun began to paint the horizon. The soft light filtered through the windows, casting warm, flickering patterns across the interior.
Nora had indeed drifted off, curled up in one of the bunks with Tigger sprawled lazily across her stomach. The little tiara someone had placed on him earlier was still there, slightly askew but strangely fitting.
Pyrrha sat near the back, quietly polishing her weapons. Every so often, she glanced out the window, her expression serene as she watched the world pass by.
Ren was in the passenger seat now, keeping an eye on the map and occasionally pointing out upcoming turns. He seemed more relaxed than usual, sipping his tea from a travel mug.
"Hey, Ren," I said, breaking the comfortable silence. "Got any of that tea left?"
He raised an eyebrow but passed me the thermos. "Sure. It's still warm."
I poured myself a small cup, the steam wafting up with a soothing herbal aroma. I took a sip and blinked in surprise.
"I'm still surprised how good this is, never liked straight tea"
Ren gave a small smile. "Maybe your power just gave you good taste."
I frowned slightly, swirling the tea in the cup. It tasted... brighter, somehow. Fresher.
"Maybe my aura thing is affecting my taste buds now," I muttered.
Ren shook his head, though there was a faint hint of pride in his expression. "I think it's just good tea."
As the van continued its steady pace, I glanced at the map Ren had been holding earlier. We were making good time, but the dirt roads leading to Hallifax would likely slow us down tomorrow.
"You know," I said, "we've been through a lot lately. Maybe when we get to Hallifax, we take a day to just... breathe. Explore a bit before moving on."
Pyrrha nodded thoughtfully. "That sounds like a good idea. It's been a while since we've had a moment to just enjoy ourselves."
Ren hummed in agreement. "Hallifax is supposed to have some interesting local food. That might be worth checking out."
"Sold," I said, grinning. "We'll make it a mini-vacation. Nora will love that."
From the back, Nora mumbled something unintelligible in her sleep, as if already dreaming about the pancakes or festivals she'd been hoping for.
The warm glow of the campfire flickered against the makeshift rock screen, casting dancing shadows across our little campsite. Pyrrha handed me the crackers, her fingers slightly sticky from the marshmallow remnants clinging to them.
"Thanks," I said, carefully balancing a toasted marshmallow between two chocolate-topped crackers. The heat from the marshmallow melted the chocolate just enough to ooze slightly, and I took a bite, savoring the gooey perfection.
Pyrrha leaned back on her hands, her hair catching the firelight in a way that made her look beautiful. She gave me a playful smirk as she licked a bit of melted chocolate off her thumb.
Ren sat nearby, his cup of tea in hand, quietly enjoying the scene. He had opted out of the s'mores, as usual, claiming they were too sweet for his taste. Instead, he'd prepared a small bowl of roasted nuts, which he occasionally shared with Tigger, who lounged lazily in his lap, dunno if cats can eat those, but him being magical and with aura, I wasn't really worried, and at worst I could heal him up.
Nora, of course, was in her element. She had a stack of s'mores piled high on a plate beside her, each one an architectural marvel of marshmallow and chocolate. She was halfway through her third when she pointed at the rock screen with a sticky finger.
"Jaune, are you sure this movie is good? It looks... old," she said, her mouth half-full.
"It's a classic," I insisted, gesturing at the screen. "Trust me, you'll love it. It's got action, adventure, and—"
"Romance?" Pyrrha cut in with a teasing grin.
I chuckled. "Maybe a little. But mostly explosions."
"Good enough for me!" Nora said, leaning back with a satisfied grin.
Ren adjusted the projector we'd set up—well, technically, it was Nora's scroll balanced on a few stacked rocks with a lens attachment we'd jury-rigged. The screen shimmered as the opening credits began to roll.
As the movie played, the sounds of laughter, cheers, and the occasional gasp filled the air. Pyrrha rested her head on my shoulder halfway through, and I wrapped an arm around her, pulling her closer.
"This is nice," she murmured softly, her voice almost lost under the crackle of the fire.
"Yeah," I agreed, glancing around at my team. For the first time in a while, everything felt... normal.
Even Tigger seemed to be enjoying himself, purring contentedly as Ren scratched behind his ears.
As the movie reached its climactic finale, Nora cheered loudly, nearly spilling her s'mores stack in the process. Pyrrha laughed, and even Ren cracked a rare smile.
When the credits rolled, we sat in comfortable silence for a moment, the fire crackling softly as the stars began to peek out overhead.
"Alright," Nora declared, standing up and stretching. "That was fun, but next time, I'm picking the movie. Something with more explosions!"
"More explosions than that?" I asked, raising an eyebrow.
"You'd be surprised," she said with a mischievous grin.
As we packed up for the night, I couldn't help but feel a warmth in my chest that had nothing to do with the campfire.
As the fire dwindled to glowing embers, we packed up the last of our little campsite. Pyrrha carefully tucked the leftover crackers and chocolate into a bag while Ren doused the fire with water, sending up a final hiss of steam into the cool night air.
"Alright, team," I said, stifling a yawn. "Time to hit the bunks. We've got a long stretch to Hallifax tomorrow."
Nora groaned dramatically, dragging her feet toward the van. "But I was just getting comfy out here!"
Ren gave her a pointed look as he picked up her bag. "You'll appreciate the van's warmth when the bugs come out."
"Fine," she huffed, stomping up the steps and into the van.
Inside, the space was cozy but well-organized. Tigger was already curled up on his little cot near the back, his tail twitching slightly as he dreamed. Ren and Nora claimed one of the bunks on the left side, with Nora sprawling out first and Ren squeezing in beside her with practiced ease.
"Watch your elbows, Nora," Ren muttered, shifting as she stretched out like a starfish.
"No promises," she said, grinning before pulling a blanket over herself.
Pyrrha and I climbed into the bunk opposite them. It was snug but comfortable, and I didn't mind the closeness. Pyrrha settled in first, her hair fanning out against the pillow, and I slid in beside her, careful not to jostle her too much.
"You good?" I asked, adjusting the blanket over us.
She smiled softly. "I'm perfect."
The van hummed gently around us, its systems quietly running as it recharged for the next day. The faint glow of the dashboard lights cast a soft ambiance across the space.
From the other bunk, Nora's voice broke the quiet. "Ren, stop hogging the blanket!"
"You're the one pulling it all to your side," Ren replied, his voice calm but tired.
"Am not!"
"Are too."
Pyrrha and I exchanged a look, trying not to laugh. I reached down to scratch Tigger behind the ears as he let out a sleepy purr.
"Goodnight, everyone," I said, settling in and closing my eyes.
"Goodnight, Jaune," Pyrrha murmured beside me, her voice soft and comforting.
"Night," Ren added, followed by a muffled, "Ow, Nora!"
"Oops," came Nora's unapologetic reply.
"We're here," Pyrrha announced, her voice clear and cheerful as she pulled the blanket off me.
I groaned, rubbing my eyes. "Already?"
Tigger, unfortunately, took the brunt of Pyrrha's enthusiasm. The blanket tumbled him off the bed with a startled "Meoow!" He landed on the floor, glaring up at us with the kind of disdain only a cat could muster.
"Sorry, buddy," I muttered, leaning down to give him a quick scratch behind the ears.
Ren was stirring in the opposite bunk, but Nora had him locked in a bear hug. He tried shifting slightly, but Nora's grip was ironclad even in her sleep.
I chuckled softly at the sight before turning my attention to the window. As I pulled back the curtain, I blinked at the view outside.
"Wow," I muttered.
The outpost was far more fortified than I'd expected. Wide concrete walls stretched around the perimeter, dotted with imposing turrets that looked fully operational. Militiamen patrolled the top of the walls, their armor gleaming under the early morning sun. A mix of old-world charm and modern practicality, the place exuded a sense of order and preparedness.
"For a little frontier outpost, this is… impressive," I said, still taking it in.
Pyrrha nodded, leaning beside me to look out the window. "They're well-prepared. It's good to see people taking security seriously out here."
Ren finally managed to pry himself free from Nora's embrace, gently easing her arms off him and sitting up. His hair was a little messy, but he looked alert as he joined us at the window.
"They've probably had to deal with their fair share of trouble," he said, his tone thoughtful.
"Yeah, but this?" I gestured to the walls. "This is practically a fortress."
Behind us, Nora yawned loudly and stretched, sitting up with a sleepy grin. "Fortress or not, I hope they've got breakfast."
"Priorities," Ren muttered, shaking his head but smiling faintly.
Pyrrha gave me a nudge. "Should we head out and introduce ourselves?"
"Yeah, let's see what this place is all about," I said, grabbing my jacket and heading toward the van door.
We stepped out of the van, the morning air crisp and fresh. The hum of activity from the outpost filled the space, a mixture of distant voices, the clink of metal, and the occasional bark of orders.
Tigger darted out first, tail held high as he sniffed around. The little guy seemed completely unfazed by the towering walls and armed guards.
The main gate loomed ahead, a thick slab of reinforced steel flanked by two watchtowers. As we approached, a guard at the top called down. "Halt! State your business!"
Pyrrha stepped forward, her posture calm but confident. "We're just travelers passing through. Looking for supplies and maybe a place to rest before continuing on."
The guard eyed us for a moment, then nodded. "Wait there."
A moment later, the gate creaked open just enough to let a figure step through. A woman in a plate carrier, her dark hair tied back in a ponytail, approached. She looked like she meant business, but there was a kindness in her eyes that put me at ease.
"Welcome to Hallifax Outpost," she said, her voice firm but not unkind. "I'm Captain Elara. We don't get many travelers this far north. What brings you here?"
I stepped forward this time. "We're on our way to Vytal. Figured this would be a good place to stock up and rest before heading into the wilderness."
Elara studied us for a moment, her gaze sharp but not accusatory. "Vytal, huh? That's a long way from here. You'll definitely want to be prepared." She gestured toward the gate. "Come on in. We'll see what we can do for you."
As we followed her inside, the full scope of the outpost came into view. The walls enclosed a bustling community, with buildings made of sturdy wood and stone. Market stalls lined one side of the main square, offering everything from fresh produce to weapons. Children played near a small fountain, their laughter a cheerful contrast to the otherwise utilitarian atmosphere.
"This place is amazing," Pyrrha said softly, her admiration evident.
"Built it up ourselves over the years," Elara said proudly. "We're not as big as the cities, but we've got everything we need to survive out here."
"Survive and thrive, it looks like," Ren added, nodding toward the market.
Nora, meanwhile, was already eyeing a stall selling baked goods. "Do you think they have bacon?" she whispered to me.
I laughed. "Maybe. Let's see what they've got."
Elara led us toward a central building that looked like a combination of a town hall and a command center. "You can park your van in the lot over there," she said, pointing to a cleared area near the wall. "We've got a bunkhouse if you'd rather sleep somewhere more comfortable tonight."
"Thanks," I said. "We appreciate it."
The bunkhouse was a simple but cozy setup. Wooden walls gave the place a rustic charm, and the faint smell of pine lingered in the air. Each bed had clean sheets, a thick blanket, and a small nightstand with a lantern. It wasn't luxury, but after days on the road, it felt like heaven.
Ren and Nora claimed one of the beds immediately, Nora flopping onto it with a dramatic sigh of contentment. Ren sat beside her, shaking his head but smiling softly. Pyrrha and I took the bed opposite them. I sat down, the mattress creaking slightly under my weight.
"Not bad," I said, leaning back against the wall.
Pyrrha nodded, her eyes scanning the room. "It's nice to have a roof over our heads for a change."
Tigger, the kitty explorer, leaped onto the top of Nora's bed and curled up, his tail flicking lazily.
After we dropped off our gear, we decided to explore the town and grab some breakfast. The market was alive with activity, vendors calling out their wares and townsfolk chatting as they went about their day.
We found a small café tucked into the corner of the square. The smell of fresh bread and sizzling bacon wafted through the air, drawing us in like moths to a flame.
The café owner, an older woman with a warm smile, greeted us. "Travelers, eh? Take a seat. I'll whip you up something special."
We settled at a wooden table near the window. Nora was practically bouncing in her seat, her eyes darting to the kitchen.
"Do you think they have brownies?" she whispered, her voice tinged with hope.
The owner returned with a tray laden with food: plates of fluffy pancakes, scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, and a basket of fresh bread. Nora's face lit up like a kid on their birthday.
"I love this town," she declared, diving into her plate.
Ren chuckled softly, pouring himself a cup of tea from a pot the owner had left on the table. "Let's not get too comfortable. We've still got a long way to go."
I took a bite of a little baguette, the bread toasted and buttery. "If every stop is like this, I might start enjoying this trip a little too much."
Pyrrha smiled, her hand resting lightly on mine. "It's nice to take a moment to breathe."
After breakfast, we wandered the market for a bit, picking up a few supplies: some extra food, a map of the area, and a set of replacement fuses for the van. By the time we returned to the bunkhouse, the sun was high in the sky, and the warmth of the day was starting to seep in.
We settled in for a nap, the soft hum of the town outside lulling us to sleep.
I woke to the sound of distant shouting. My eyes snapped open, and I sat up, the blanket pooling around my waist. Pyrrha stirred beside me, her brow furrowed.
"What's going on?" she murmured.
Ren and Nora were already up, Ren standing by the window, peering out into the street.
"There's some kind of commotion," he said, his voice calm but alert.
I climbed out of bed and joined him at the window. A small crowd was gathering near the center of town, their voices a mix of confusion and concern.
Tigger hopped down from his perch, stretching before padding over to Pyrrha. She scooped him up, her expression serious.
"Let's check it out," I said, grabbing my jacket.
As we stepped outside, the air felt heavier, charged with unease. We followed the murmurs of the crowd to the local inn, where a group of townsfolk and militia had gathered.
"What happened?" I asked a nearby guard.
The man turned to me, his face pale. "One of the huntsmen staying here… he's fallen into a coma. No one knows why."
The words sent a chill down my spine. Huntsmen didn't just collapse like that—not without a reason.
Pyrrha's grip on my arm tightened. "This isn't normal."
"No," I agreed, my mind racing. "It's not."
The crowd parted slightly, and I caught a glimpse of the huntsman being carried out on a stretcher, his face pale and still.
The crowd buzzed with whispers as the stretcher was loaded into a waiting cart, bound for the town's small medical clinic. Pyrrha and I exchanged a glance, the unspoken agreement clear between us. This wasn't something we could ignore.
Ren folded his arms, his expression unreadable but focused. "We should find out more. If a huntsman is affected, it could mean trouble for the rest of the town."
Nora nodded vigorously, her earlier excitement replaced with a serious determination. "Yeah, no way we're letting something weird happen without figuring it out first."
We followed the cart to the clinic, where the town's doctor, a grizzled man with silver hair and a perpetually furrowed brow, was already waiting. He motioned for the stretcher to be brought inside, his hands moving deftly as he checked the huntsman's pulse and examined him.
"What's the diagnosis, Doc?" one of the militia guards asked.
The doctor shook his head, his face grim. "I've never seen anything like this. His vitals are stable, but it's like he's… disconnected. Completely unresponsive, but no signs of injury or illness."
"That's not reassuring," I muttered under my breath.
Pyrrha stepped forward. "Doctor, is there anything we can do to help?"
The man looked up, studying us for a moment before nodding. "If you're huntsmen, then yes. I could use an extra set of eyes to figure out what caused this. He was staying at the inn—his room might have clues."
"On it," I said, already heading for the door.
The innkeeper was waiting for us when we arrived, a nervous look on his face. He wrung his hands as he led us to the huntsman's room on the second floor.
"I didn't notice anything strange," he said, his voice trembling slightly. "He came in last night, seemed fine. Then this morning, he didn't come down for breakfast, so I sent someone to check on him. Found him like that."
The room was simple, with a neatly made bed, a small desk, and a travel bag resting in the corner. Ren immediately began examining the bag, while Nora checked the desk drawers. Pyrrha and I focused on the bed, looking for any signs of what might have happened.
"Nothing unusual here," Ren said, holding up a neatly folded set of spare clothes.
"Same here," Nora added, tossing aside a blank notebook.
I knelt by the bed, running my hand over the sheets. There was a faint residue—something slick and tar-like.
"Pyrrha, look at this," I said, holding my hand up to show her.
She leaned in, her brows furrowing. "What is that?"
Ren walked over, examining it closely. "No idea, it looks like Grimm ichor... but the room looks fine."
I wiped the residue onto a cloth and pocketed it. "We'll take this to the doctor. Maybe he can analyze it."
As we turned to leave, a sudden chill swept through the room, making the hair on the back of my neck stand up. Pyrrha's hand instinctively went to her weapon, and Ren and Nora tensed.
"Did anyone else feel that?" I asked, my voice low.
"Yeah," Nora said, her hammer already in her hands. "That wasn't normal."
The air grew heavy, oppressive, and for a moment, I thought I saw a shadow flicker across the wall—something unnatural, something watching us.
"Let's get out of here," Ren said, his voice steady but firm.
We didn't need to be told twice.
Back at the clinic, the doctor examined the residue under a magnifying lens. He frowned, his expression growing darker by the second.
"It looks like Grimm blood," he said finally. "But that's impossible."
"What do you mean?" I asked, frustration creeping into my voice.
The doctor shook his head. "It's Grimm blood, but that's the issue, It should have vaporized already. If you're planning to stay in town, I'd suggest being on high alert. This .... in my medical opinion, weird."
Pyrrha placed a reassuring hand on my shoulder. "We'll keep a eye out doctor."
I nodded, my resolve hardening. Whatever was happening here, we couldn't just walk away.
The town needed all the help it could get.
CP Bank:500cp
Perks earned this chapter : none
Milestone reached this chapter :
A nightmare in Hallifax street: Something wicked this way comes: 500 cp
"Nope," I replied, keeping my eyes on the road ahead.
"Are you sure?" she pressed, leaning forward slightly from her spot in the back.
"Nora, you asked that ten minutes ago," Ren chimed in, his tone calm but with just a hint of exasperation.
"Yeah, and ten minutes ago, I thought we were closer!" she shot back, crossing her arms with a dramatic pout.
I chuckled, shaking my head. "We've still got a ways to go, Nora. We should reach Hallifax by tomorrow evening if everything goes smoothly."
Nora groaned and flopped back into her seat. "Tomorrow? That's forever away!"
"It's not that bad," Pyrrha said, smiling gently. "Think of it as more time to enjoy the journey."
"Enjoy the journey," Nora mimicked with a mock-serious tone before breaking into a grin. "I guess you're right. More time to bug Jaune!"
"Lucky me," I muttered, though I couldn't help but smile.
Ren, ever the voice of reason, leaned back in his seat. "We should take another day to get there, anyway. It's safer to pace ourselves, and it'll give everyone time to rest."
"Rest is overrated," Nora declared, stretching her arms out. "But fine, I guess I'll nap. Wake me up if we pass anything cool, like a giant Grimm or a pancake festival."
"Noted," I said, laughing.
As the van hummed along the quiet highway, the golden hues of the setting sun began to paint the horizon. The soft light filtered through the windows, casting warm, flickering patterns across the interior.
Nora had indeed drifted off, curled up in one of the bunks with Tigger sprawled lazily across her stomach. The little tiara someone had placed on him earlier was still there, slightly askew but strangely fitting.
Pyrrha sat near the back, quietly polishing her weapons. Every so often, she glanced out the window, her expression serene as she watched the world pass by.
Ren was in the passenger seat now, keeping an eye on the map and occasionally pointing out upcoming turns. He seemed more relaxed than usual, sipping his tea from a travel mug.
"Hey, Ren," I said, breaking the comfortable silence. "Got any of that tea left?"
He raised an eyebrow but passed me the thermos. "Sure. It's still warm."
I poured myself a small cup, the steam wafting up with a soothing herbal aroma. I took a sip and blinked in surprise.
"I'm still surprised how good this is, never liked straight tea"
Ren gave a small smile. "Maybe your power just gave you good taste."
I frowned slightly, swirling the tea in the cup. It tasted... brighter, somehow. Fresher.
"Maybe my aura thing is affecting my taste buds now," I muttered.
Ren shook his head, though there was a faint hint of pride in his expression. "I think it's just good tea."
As the van continued its steady pace, I glanced at the map Ren had been holding earlier. We were making good time, but the dirt roads leading to Hallifax would likely slow us down tomorrow.
"You know," I said, "we've been through a lot lately. Maybe when we get to Hallifax, we take a day to just... breathe. Explore a bit before moving on."
Pyrrha nodded thoughtfully. "That sounds like a good idea. It's been a while since we've had a moment to just enjoy ourselves."
Ren hummed in agreement. "Hallifax is supposed to have some interesting local food. That might be worth checking out."
"Sold," I said, grinning. "We'll make it a mini-vacation. Nora will love that."
From the back, Nora mumbled something unintelligible in her sleep, as if already dreaming about the pancakes or festivals she'd been hoping for.
The warm glow of the campfire flickered against the makeshift rock screen, casting dancing shadows across our little campsite. Pyrrha handed me the crackers, her fingers slightly sticky from the marshmallow remnants clinging to them.
"Thanks," I said, carefully balancing a toasted marshmallow between two chocolate-topped crackers. The heat from the marshmallow melted the chocolate just enough to ooze slightly, and I took a bite, savoring the gooey perfection.
Pyrrha leaned back on her hands, her hair catching the firelight in a way that made her look beautiful. She gave me a playful smirk as she licked a bit of melted chocolate off her thumb.
Ren sat nearby, his cup of tea in hand, quietly enjoying the scene. He had opted out of the s'mores, as usual, claiming they were too sweet for his taste. Instead, he'd prepared a small bowl of roasted nuts, which he occasionally shared with Tigger, who lounged lazily in his lap, dunno if cats can eat those, but him being magical and with aura, I wasn't really worried, and at worst I could heal him up.
Nora, of course, was in her element. She had a stack of s'mores piled high on a plate beside her, each one an architectural marvel of marshmallow and chocolate. She was halfway through her third when she pointed at the rock screen with a sticky finger.
"Jaune, are you sure this movie is good? It looks... old," she said, her mouth half-full.
"It's a classic," I insisted, gesturing at the screen. "Trust me, you'll love it. It's got action, adventure, and—"
"Romance?" Pyrrha cut in with a teasing grin.
I chuckled. "Maybe a little. But mostly explosions."
"Good enough for me!" Nora said, leaning back with a satisfied grin.
Ren adjusted the projector we'd set up—well, technically, it was Nora's scroll balanced on a few stacked rocks with a lens attachment we'd jury-rigged. The screen shimmered as the opening credits began to roll.
As the movie played, the sounds of laughter, cheers, and the occasional gasp filled the air. Pyrrha rested her head on my shoulder halfway through, and I wrapped an arm around her, pulling her closer.
"This is nice," she murmured softly, her voice almost lost under the crackle of the fire.
"Yeah," I agreed, glancing around at my team. For the first time in a while, everything felt... normal.
Even Tigger seemed to be enjoying himself, purring contentedly as Ren scratched behind his ears.
As the movie reached its climactic finale, Nora cheered loudly, nearly spilling her s'mores stack in the process. Pyrrha laughed, and even Ren cracked a rare smile.
When the credits rolled, we sat in comfortable silence for a moment, the fire crackling softly as the stars began to peek out overhead.
"Alright," Nora declared, standing up and stretching. "That was fun, but next time, I'm picking the movie. Something with more explosions!"
"More explosions than that?" I asked, raising an eyebrow.
"You'd be surprised," she said with a mischievous grin.
As we packed up for the night, I couldn't help but feel a warmth in my chest that had nothing to do with the campfire.
As the fire dwindled to glowing embers, we packed up the last of our little campsite. Pyrrha carefully tucked the leftover crackers and chocolate into a bag while Ren doused the fire with water, sending up a final hiss of steam into the cool night air.
"Alright, team," I said, stifling a yawn. "Time to hit the bunks. We've got a long stretch to Hallifax tomorrow."
Nora groaned dramatically, dragging her feet toward the van. "But I was just getting comfy out here!"
Ren gave her a pointed look as he picked up her bag. "You'll appreciate the van's warmth when the bugs come out."
"Fine," she huffed, stomping up the steps and into the van.
Inside, the space was cozy but well-organized. Tigger was already curled up on his little cot near the back, his tail twitching slightly as he dreamed. Ren and Nora claimed one of the bunks on the left side, with Nora sprawling out first and Ren squeezing in beside her with practiced ease.
"Watch your elbows, Nora," Ren muttered, shifting as she stretched out like a starfish.
"No promises," she said, grinning before pulling a blanket over herself.
Pyrrha and I climbed into the bunk opposite them. It was snug but comfortable, and I didn't mind the closeness. Pyrrha settled in first, her hair fanning out against the pillow, and I slid in beside her, careful not to jostle her too much.
"You good?" I asked, adjusting the blanket over us.
She smiled softly. "I'm perfect."
The van hummed gently around us, its systems quietly running as it recharged for the next day. The faint glow of the dashboard lights cast a soft ambiance across the space.
From the other bunk, Nora's voice broke the quiet. "Ren, stop hogging the blanket!"
"You're the one pulling it all to your side," Ren replied, his voice calm but tired.
"Am not!"
"Are too."
Pyrrha and I exchanged a look, trying not to laugh. I reached down to scratch Tigger behind the ears as he let out a sleepy purr.
"Goodnight, everyone," I said, settling in and closing my eyes.
"Goodnight, Jaune," Pyrrha murmured beside me, her voice soft and comforting.
"Night," Ren added, followed by a muffled, "Ow, Nora!"
"Oops," came Nora's unapologetic reply.
"We're here," Pyrrha announced, her voice clear and cheerful as she pulled the blanket off me.
I groaned, rubbing my eyes. "Already?"
Tigger, unfortunately, took the brunt of Pyrrha's enthusiasm. The blanket tumbled him off the bed with a startled "Meoow!" He landed on the floor, glaring up at us with the kind of disdain only a cat could muster.
"Sorry, buddy," I muttered, leaning down to give him a quick scratch behind the ears.
Ren was stirring in the opposite bunk, but Nora had him locked in a bear hug. He tried shifting slightly, but Nora's grip was ironclad even in her sleep.
I chuckled softly at the sight before turning my attention to the window. As I pulled back the curtain, I blinked at the view outside.
"Wow," I muttered.
The outpost was far more fortified than I'd expected. Wide concrete walls stretched around the perimeter, dotted with imposing turrets that looked fully operational. Militiamen patrolled the top of the walls, their armor gleaming under the early morning sun. A mix of old-world charm and modern practicality, the place exuded a sense of order and preparedness.
"For a little frontier outpost, this is… impressive," I said, still taking it in.
Pyrrha nodded, leaning beside me to look out the window. "They're well-prepared. It's good to see people taking security seriously out here."
Ren finally managed to pry himself free from Nora's embrace, gently easing her arms off him and sitting up. His hair was a little messy, but he looked alert as he joined us at the window.
"They've probably had to deal with their fair share of trouble," he said, his tone thoughtful.
"Yeah, but this?" I gestured to the walls. "This is practically a fortress."
Behind us, Nora yawned loudly and stretched, sitting up with a sleepy grin. "Fortress or not, I hope they've got breakfast."
"Priorities," Ren muttered, shaking his head but smiling faintly.
Pyrrha gave me a nudge. "Should we head out and introduce ourselves?"
"Yeah, let's see what this place is all about," I said, grabbing my jacket and heading toward the van door.
We stepped out of the van, the morning air crisp and fresh. The hum of activity from the outpost filled the space, a mixture of distant voices, the clink of metal, and the occasional bark of orders.
Tigger darted out first, tail held high as he sniffed around. The little guy seemed completely unfazed by the towering walls and armed guards.
The main gate loomed ahead, a thick slab of reinforced steel flanked by two watchtowers. As we approached, a guard at the top called down. "Halt! State your business!"
Pyrrha stepped forward, her posture calm but confident. "We're just travelers passing through. Looking for supplies and maybe a place to rest before continuing on."
The guard eyed us for a moment, then nodded. "Wait there."
A moment later, the gate creaked open just enough to let a figure step through. A woman in a plate carrier, her dark hair tied back in a ponytail, approached. She looked like she meant business, but there was a kindness in her eyes that put me at ease.
"Welcome to Hallifax Outpost," she said, her voice firm but not unkind. "I'm Captain Elara. We don't get many travelers this far north. What brings you here?"
I stepped forward this time. "We're on our way to Vytal. Figured this would be a good place to stock up and rest before heading into the wilderness."
Elara studied us for a moment, her gaze sharp but not accusatory. "Vytal, huh? That's a long way from here. You'll definitely want to be prepared." She gestured toward the gate. "Come on in. We'll see what we can do for you."
As we followed her inside, the full scope of the outpost came into view. The walls enclosed a bustling community, with buildings made of sturdy wood and stone. Market stalls lined one side of the main square, offering everything from fresh produce to weapons. Children played near a small fountain, their laughter a cheerful contrast to the otherwise utilitarian atmosphere.
"This place is amazing," Pyrrha said softly, her admiration evident.
"Built it up ourselves over the years," Elara said proudly. "We're not as big as the cities, but we've got everything we need to survive out here."
"Survive and thrive, it looks like," Ren added, nodding toward the market.
Nora, meanwhile, was already eyeing a stall selling baked goods. "Do you think they have bacon?" she whispered to me.
I laughed. "Maybe. Let's see what they've got."
Elara led us toward a central building that looked like a combination of a town hall and a command center. "You can park your van in the lot over there," she said, pointing to a cleared area near the wall. "We've got a bunkhouse if you'd rather sleep somewhere more comfortable tonight."
"Thanks," I said. "We appreciate it."
The bunkhouse was a simple but cozy setup. Wooden walls gave the place a rustic charm, and the faint smell of pine lingered in the air. Each bed had clean sheets, a thick blanket, and a small nightstand with a lantern. It wasn't luxury, but after days on the road, it felt like heaven.
Ren and Nora claimed one of the beds immediately, Nora flopping onto it with a dramatic sigh of contentment. Ren sat beside her, shaking his head but smiling softly. Pyrrha and I took the bed opposite them. I sat down, the mattress creaking slightly under my weight.
"Not bad," I said, leaning back against the wall.
Pyrrha nodded, her eyes scanning the room. "It's nice to have a roof over our heads for a change."
Tigger, the kitty explorer, leaped onto the top of Nora's bed and curled up, his tail flicking lazily.
After we dropped off our gear, we decided to explore the town and grab some breakfast. The market was alive with activity, vendors calling out their wares and townsfolk chatting as they went about their day.
We found a small café tucked into the corner of the square. The smell of fresh bread and sizzling bacon wafted through the air, drawing us in like moths to a flame.
The café owner, an older woman with a warm smile, greeted us. "Travelers, eh? Take a seat. I'll whip you up something special."
We settled at a wooden table near the window. Nora was practically bouncing in her seat, her eyes darting to the kitchen.
"Do you think they have brownies?" she whispered, her voice tinged with hope.
The owner returned with a tray laden with food: plates of fluffy pancakes, scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, and a basket of fresh bread. Nora's face lit up like a kid on their birthday.
"I love this town," she declared, diving into her plate.
Ren chuckled softly, pouring himself a cup of tea from a pot the owner had left on the table. "Let's not get too comfortable. We've still got a long way to go."
I took a bite of a little baguette, the bread toasted and buttery. "If every stop is like this, I might start enjoying this trip a little too much."
Pyrrha smiled, her hand resting lightly on mine. "It's nice to take a moment to breathe."
After breakfast, we wandered the market for a bit, picking up a few supplies: some extra food, a map of the area, and a set of replacement fuses for the van. By the time we returned to the bunkhouse, the sun was high in the sky, and the warmth of the day was starting to seep in.
We settled in for a nap, the soft hum of the town outside lulling us to sleep.
I woke to the sound of distant shouting. My eyes snapped open, and I sat up, the blanket pooling around my waist. Pyrrha stirred beside me, her brow furrowed.
"What's going on?" she murmured.
Ren and Nora were already up, Ren standing by the window, peering out into the street.
"There's some kind of commotion," he said, his voice calm but alert.
I climbed out of bed and joined him at the window. A small crowd was gathering near the center of town, their voices a mix of confusion and concern.
Tigger hopped down from his perch, stretching before padding over to Pyrrha. She scooped him up, her expression serious.
"Let's check it out," I said, grabbing my jacket.
As we stepped outside, the air felt heavier, charged with unease. We followed the murmurs of the crowd to the local inn, where a group of townsfolk and militia had gathered.
"What happened?" I asked a nearby guard.
The man turned to me, his face pale. "One of the huntsmen staying here… he's fallen into a coma. No one knows why."
The words sent a chill down my spine. Huntsmen didn't just collapse like that—not without a reason.
Pyrrha's grip on my arm tightened. "This isn't normal."
"No," I agreed, my mind racing. "It's not."
The crowd parted slightly, and I caught a glimpse of the huntsman being carried out on a stretcher, his face pale and still.
The crowd buzzed with whispers as the stretcher was loaded into a waiting cart, bound for the town's small medical clinic. Pyrrha and I exchanged a glance, the unspoken agreement clear between us. This wasn't something we could ignore.
Ren folded his arms, his expression unreadable but focused. "We should find out more. If a huntsman is affected, it could mean trouble for the rest of the town."
Nora nodded vigorously, her earlier excitement replaced with a serious determination. "Yeah, no way we're letting something weird happen without figuring it out first."
We followed the cart to the clinic, where the town's doctor, a grizzled man with silver hair and a perpetually furrowed brow, was already waiting. He motioned for the stretcher to be brought inside, his hands moving deftly as he checked the huntsman's pulse and examined him.
"What's the diagnosis, Doc?" one of the militia guards asked.
The doctor shook his head, his face grim. "I've never seen anything like this. His vitals are stable, but it's like he's… disconnected. Completely unresponsive, but no signs of injury or illness."
"That's not reassuring," I muttered under my breath.
Pyrrha stepped forward. "Doctor, is there anything we can do to help?"
The man looked up, studying us for a moment before nodding. "If you're huntsmen, then yes. I could use an extra set of eyes to figure out what caused this. He was staying at the inn—his room might have clues."
"On it," I said, already heading for the door.
The innkeeper was waiting for us when we arrived, a nervous look on his face. He wrung his hands as he led us to the huntsman's room on the second floor.
"I didn't notice anything strange," he said, his voice trembling slightly. "He came in last night, seemed fine. Then this morning, he didn't come down for breakfast, so I sent someone to check on him. Found him like that."
The room was simple, with a neatly made bed, a small desk, and a travel bag resting in the corner. Ren immediately began examining the bag, while Nora checked the desk drawers. Pyrrha and I focused on the bed, looking for any signs of what might have happened.
"Nothing unusual here," Ren said, holding up a neatly folded set of spare clothes.
"Same here," Nora added, tossing aside a blank notebook.
I knelt by the bed, running my hand over the sheets. There was a faint residue—something slick and tar-like.
"Pyrrha, look at this," I said, holding my hand up to show her.
She leaned in, her brows furrowing. "What is that?"
Ren walked over, examining it closely. "No idea, it looks like Grimm ichor... but the room looks fine."
I wiped the residue onto a cloth and pocketed it. "We'll take this to the doctor. Maybe he can analyze it."
As we turned to leave, a sudden chill swept through the room, making the hair on the back of my neck stand up. Pyrrha's hand instinctively went to her weapon, and Ren and Nora tensed.
"Did anyone else feel that?" I asked, my voice low.
"Yeah," Nora said, her hammer already in her hands. "That wasn't normal."
The air grew heavy, oppressive, and for a moment, I thought I saw a shadow flicker across the wall—something unnatural, something watching us.
"Let's get out of here," Ren said, his voice steady but firm.
We didn't need to be told twice.
Back at the clinic, the doctor examined the residue under a magnifying lens. He frowned, his expression growing darker by the second.
"It looks like Grimm blood," he said finally. "But that's impossible."
"What do you mean?" I asked, frustration creeping into my voice.
The doctor shook his head. "It's Grimm blood, but that's the issue, It should have vaporized already. If you're planning to stay in town, I'd suggest being on high alert. This .... in my medical opinion, weird."
Pyrrha placed a reassuring hand on my shoulder. "We'll keep a eye out doctor."
I nodded, my resolve hardening. Whatever was happening here, we couldn't just walk away.
The town needed all the help it could get.
CP Bank:500cp
Perks earned this chapter : none
Milestone reached this chapter :
A nightmare in Hallifax street: Something wicked this way comes: 500 cp
- Location
- Florida
- Pronouns
- He
He does that next chapter, though with the reveal was a good time to cut the chapter lol, maybe I should have included that in this one and not the other
There's those ghost Grimm right? Probably what's in his room. Wonder how it got inside. Depending on the timing, might have even hitched a ride from their van?
Might have something to do with how well off the place is, though? Either the leader doing something fishy or the increased security leading to increased sneakiness from the Grimm.
Might have something to do with how well off the place is, though? Either the leader doing something fishy or the increased security leading to increased sneakiness from the Grimm.
Chapter 33
New
- Location
- Florida
- Pronouns
- He
The following morning, the tension in the town had grown even thicker. Whispers of fear replaced the usual chatter, and the nervous glances exchanged between townsfolk told us everything we needed to know—another victim had fallen into a coma.
This time, it wasn't a huntsman. It was a civilian woman.
We arrived at the clinic to find a small crowd gathered outside, their faces a mixture of worry and frustration. The doctor was on the porch, doing his best to calm them down.
"I assure you, we're doing everything possible," he said, his voice strained. "This isn't contagious, but we need to be cautious. Please, return to your homes."
The crowd reluctantly dispersed, though their unease lingered in the air.
Inside the clinic, the atmosphere was even heavier. The woman lay on a cot, her breathing shallow and uneven. Unlike the huntsman from the day before, her condition was far worse. Without aura to support her, she looked like she was wasting away—her skin pale and her features gaunt, as if something were draining the life out of her.
The doctor glanced up as we entered, relief flashing across his face. "You're here. Good. This is getting worse by the hour."
"What's her condition?" Pyrrha asked, her tone steady but laced with concern.
The doctor gestured to the woman. "She's alive, but just barely. Without aura, whatever is affecting her is progressing much faster. It's like her body is shutting down, piece by piece."
I stepped closer, staring at her frail form. "What could do this? It's not poison, right? You ruled that out?"
The doctor nodded. "It's not poison, and it's not any disease I've seen. But there's something... off about her. It's as if her body is fighting against something we can't detect."
Ren crossed his arms, his sharp eyes scanning the room. "It's not random," he said, his voice calm but firm. "Something is targeting these people. There's a pattern here—we just haven't figured it out yet."
Nora's usual cheer was absent, replaced by a rare seriousness. "So what? It picks one person a night and just… sucks the life out of them? How do we stop it?"
"We need more information," Pyrrha said. "Doctor, did anyone see or hear anything unusual before this happened?"
The doctor frowned, thinking. "Her husband mentioned she woke up in the middle of the night. She said she felt like she was being watched. He thought it was just a nightmare, but when he woke up, she was like this."
"Watched…" I repeated, my stomach twisting. The word echoed in my mind, reminding me of the strange presence we'd felt back at the inn.
Pyrrha looked at me, her expression serious. "If it's choosing people, then it's still out there. Watching. Waiting."
I nodded, the weight of the situation pressing down on me. "We need to figure out what links the victims. Huntsmen and civilians don't usually have much in common."
Nora tapped her hammer against her shoulder, her jaw tight. "Whatever it is, when we find it, I'm smashing it."
"Carefully," Ren said, his tone measured. "We don't know what we're dealing with. If it can take down a huntsman and leave someone like this…" He gestured to the woman. "We can't afford to underestimate it."
I sighed, running a hand through my hair. "Alright, let's retrace her steps from yesterday. Maybe we'll find something the doctor missed."
Her husband guided us through the places she'd visited the day before. A small marketplace, a well where she'd drawn water, and her home on the edge of town.
None of it stood out. Everything seemed so… ordinary.
Back at the bunkhouse that evening, we sat in a circle, trying to piece together the clues.
"There's nothing linking the victims," Pyrrha said, frustration creeping into her voice. "The huntsman and the woman didn't even know each other."
"They don't have to," Ren said. "It's not about who they are—it's about what they have. Maybe it's something in their aura, or something that makes them vulnerable."
Nora groaned, flopping back onto the bunk she shared with Ren. "Great. So we're fighting some invisible thing that picks people at random and leaves no clues. How are we supposed to stop that?"
"We'll figure it out," I said, though I wasn't sure if I believed it. "We just need to keep our eyes open."
That night, as the town settled into an uneasy silence, I found myself staring at the ceiling of the bunkhouse, unable to sleep.
Then, just as I was starting to drift off, a commotion outside jolted me awake. Shouts echoed through the streets, followed by the sound of hurried footsteps.
I sat up, my heart racing. Pyrrha stirred beside me, her hand instinctively reaching for her weapon.
"What's going on?" she asked, her voice low.
Ren and Nora were already up, Ren slipping out of bed with practiced quiet while Nora grabbed her hammer.
"I don't know," I said, pulling on my boots. "But we're about to find out."
We stepped outside to find a group of townsfolk gathered near the clinic, their faces pale with fear.
Another person had fallen into a coma. This time, it was a young man.
And unlike the huntsman or the woman, he didn't look like he'd survive the night.
The clinic was packed with worried townsfolk, their murmurs blending into a low, anxious hum. The young man lay on the same cot where the civilian woman had been earlier, his condition even worse. His skin was pale and clammy, his breaths shallow, and his aura—if he even had any—was nonexistent.
I stepped forward, my heart pounding. I had to try.
The doctor looked up as I approached, his face lined with exhaustion. "young man, you can't—"
"I have to," I interrupted, my voice firm. "I might not be able to wake him up, but I can at least stabilize him. Give him a fighting chance."
Pyrrha placed a reassuring hand on my shoulder. "We're with you."
I nodded and knelt beside the cot, placing my hands gently on the young man's chest. Taking a deep breath, I closed my eyes and focused on the flow of my aura.
My hands began to glow with a soft blue light, the warmth spreading from my palms to his body. Avalon, my sheath, pulsed faintly at my side, amplifying the energy.
I could feel the faint spark of life within him, flickering like a candle in a storm. I poured my aura into him, carefully "topping off" what was left of his reserves. The blue glow brightened, and for a moment, his breathing steadied, his color improving slightly.
But no matter how much I tried, he didn't wake up.
I pulled back, my hands trembling and sweat beading on my forehead. "I… I can't wake him up," I said, frustration and guilt tightening my chest. "It's like something's holding him down, keeping him from coming back."
The doctor placed a hand on my shoulder. "You've done more than anyone else could, young man. His condition is stable for now, thanks to you."
Pyrrha knelt beside me, her voice soft. "You did everything you could. This isn't your fault."
"I know," I said, though it didn't make me feel any better. "But if we don't figure out what's causing this soon…" I trailed off, glancing at the young man.
Ren stepped forward, his expression unreadable. "We need to consider the possibility that this isn't something natural. Whatever's doing this—it's targeting people deliberately."
Nora crossed her arms, her hammer resting against her shoulder. "So what, we've got some kind of ghost picking people off one by one? How do we even fight that?"
"It's not a ghost," Ren said, his voice calm but firm. "But it might be something just as dangerous."
"Like what?" I asked, standing and wiping my hands on my pants.
Ren hesitated, his eyes narrowing in thought. "A Grimm."
The room fell silent.
"A Grimm that can do… this?" Pyrrha asked, gesturing to the unconscious man.
Ren nodded slowly. "There are reports. Grimm that attack the mind instead of the body. They're rare, but they exist. If this is one of them…"
"Then we're dealing with something we can't see or predict," I finished, the weight of the realization settling over me.
The doctor cleared his throat, drawing our attention. "If it is a Grimm, how do you plan to find it? Let alone stop it?"
I looked at my team, each of them wearing the same determined expression. "We'll figure it out," I said. "We don't have a choice."
As we left the clinic, the townsfolk parted to let us through, their eyes filled with a mix of hope and desperation.
I didn't have the heart to tell them I wasn't sure if we could save them. But I knew one thing for certain—we weren't giving up.
"So, from our research, the young man and the woman were in the same place—right here," I said, tapping a spot on the map of the town we'd stapled to the wall. It was a small plaza near the market district, surrounded by homes and shops.
"The old temple on the hill, however," I continued, bringing my hand to the side of the map, "is where the huntsman was found. But he wasn't anywhere near the plaza. He's been doing missions outside the town all week, only stopping by the inn to sleep."
Pyrrha crossed her arms, studying the map intently. "That doesn't add up. If it's a Grimm targeting people in specific locations, why would it attack someone who's barely been in town?"
Ren nodded, his brow furrowed. "It suggests two possibilities. Either it's not bound to a specific area, or it's not choosing victims based on proximity alone."
Nora leaned back in her chair, tapping her chin thoughtfully. "So, what? It's got a hit list or something? Picking people at random?"
"Not random," I said, shaking my head. "There has to be a connection.
Something linking these people together. We just haven't found it yet."
Pyrrha stepped closer to the map, her finger tracing a line between the plaza and the inn. "What about timing? Did the attacks happen at the same time of day?"
I glanced at the notes we'd jotted down. "Roughly, yeah. Late evening, just after sunset."
"That's something, at least," Ren said. "If it's active during a specific window, we might be able to narrow down its movements."
"But that still doesn't explain the huntsman," Pyrrha pointed out. "Why go after someone who's barely in town? And why attack someone with aura first, then a civilian? It feels… inconsistent."
"Maybe it's testing its limits?" Nora suggested. "Like, seeing how much it can drain from different types of people?"
The room fell silent as we all considered the possibility.
"Whatever the reason," I said finally, "we need to figure out how to track it down before it strikes again. If it is a Grimm, it's not going to stop on its own."
Ren nodded. "Agreed. But we'll need more information. Something to help us predict its next move."
"Then we start digging," Pyrrha said, determination in her voice. "We talk to anyone who might have seen something. Cross-reference their stories. There has to be a pattern here."
"And if there isn't?" Nora asked, her tone uncharacteristically serious.
"Then we make one," I said firmly. "We'll set a trap."
Pyrrha and I made our way south, following the dirt path toward the creek. The air was crisp, and the soft babble of water grew louder as we neared the area where the huntsman's mission had taken place. According to the town records, his job was to clear out a pack of Ursas spotted in the vicinity.
The forest around us was dense, the canopy above casting flickering shadows across the ground. Pyrrha walked a few steps ahead, her hand resting on the hilt of her weapon, her gaze sweeping the area.
"Keep your eyes open," she said quietly. "If there were Ursas here, there might be other Grimm lurking around."
"Got it," I replied, gripping Crocea Mors tightly.
We reached the creek, a narrow stream of clear water winding its way through the forest. The signs of battle were immediately apparent: deep gouges in the nearby trees, patches of disturbed earth, and faint traces of glittering dust residue scattered across the ground.
Pyrrha knelt by the water's edge, examining the ground. "This looks like the aftermath of a fight. The huntsman must have engaged the pack here."
I crouched beside her, pointing to a section of bark where a burn mark glimmered faintly. "Looks like he used Dust rounds in the fight. This residue must be from his weapon."
I scanned the area, following the flow of the creek with my eyes. "If he was hurt, maybe he tried to retreat along the water. It'd be an easy path to follow back to town."
Pyrrha nodded. "That's a reasonable assumption. Let's see where it leads."
We followed the creek upstream, the sound of running water guiding our steps. The forest grew denser, the air damp and heavy. After a while, the creek began to narrow, its flow slowing as the terrain became more uneven.
Then we spotted it: a rusted metal pipe protruding from the side of a hill, water trickling from its mouth into the creek. The pipe was large enough for a person to crawl through, its edges coated with grime and moss.
Pyrrha tilted her head, studying the pipe. "That's part of the city's sewer system. It must drain into the creek."
I frowned, stepping closer. "But why would a sewer pipe lead all the way out here, this far from the town?"
"Old infrastructure, maybe? Or an overflow system," Pyrrha suggested. "Either way, it's worth noting."
I peered into the dark opening of the pipe, the faint smell of decay wafting out. "If the huntsman came this way, maybe he tried to use the pipe for cover. Or... something else came out of it."
Pyrrha's expression grew serious. "We should report this to Ren and Nora. If this is connected to what's happening in town, we need to know what's inside that pipe."
"Agreed," I said, stepping back from the pipe. "Let's head back and regroup."
As we began the trek back to town, my thoughts lingered on Ren and Nora. They had gone to scout the old temple on the hill, searching for any clues that might explain the strange comas plaguing the town. I hoped their search had been more fruitful than ours, though the ominous discovery of the pipe left an uneasy feeling in my gut.
Back at the bunkhouse, Pyrrha and I found Ren and Nora waiting for us. Ren was seated at the small table, sipping tea, while Nora leaned against the wall, flipping a pancake in her hand like a frisbee.
"You're back!" Nora said cheerfully, tossing the pancake into the air and catching it on her plate. "Find anything cool?"
Pyrrha and I exchanged a glance before I spoke. "We followed the creek and found signs of a fight—likely where the huntsman encountered the Ursas. But the strange part is where the creek led us."
I unfolded the map on the table, tracing my finger along the creek's path. "It goes upstream to an old sewer pipe, big enough for something—or someone—to crawl through. It's out of place this far from town."
Ren frowned, setting his tea down. "A sewer pipe? Did you go inside?"
I shook my head. "No, we thought it'd be better to regroup first. But it feels... off. If the pipe connects to the town's sewer system, it might explain how whatever's causing this is getting around."
Pyrrha nodded. "What about you two? Did you find anything at the temple?"
Ren sighed. "The temple was abandoned, as expected. The furniture was a mess, benches, and chairs spread all over the place ."
"And some creepy vibes," Nora added, spinning her fork dramatically. "It's like the whole place was holding its breath, waiting for something to happen."
"Between the temple and the pipe, it's clear we're dealing with something that can move around unnoticed," I said, leaning on the table. "We should check the sewer pipe first thing tomorrow. If it's connected to the town's systems, it might lead us to the source."
"Agreed," Ren said. "We'll need to be cautious, though. Whatever's causing this has already taken down a huntsman and two civilians."
Nora grinned, cracking her knuckles. "Don't worry. If it shows up, I'll smash it into next week."
Pyrrha smiled at her enthusiasm, though her expression remained serious. "Let's get some rest. We'll need to be sharp for tomorrow."
We all agreed and settled into our bunks. Ren and Nora shared one, as usual, with Nora curling up like a contented cat. Pyrrha and I shared the other, Tigger nestled in his cot nearby. The room fell quiet as we drifted off to sleep, the soft hum of the town outside lulling us into slumber.
The next morning, I woke to sunlight streaming through the small window. Pyrrha stirred beside me, stretching gracefully before sitting up. Tigger was already awake, pawing at the edge of the cot.
Ren was up as well, sipping tea by the window. But something was off. Nora hadn't moved.
"Nora?" Ren called softly, setting his cup down and walking over to her bunk. She didn't respond.
He gently shook her shoulder. "Nora, wake up."
Still nothing.
I sat up, my heart sinking. "What's wrong?"
Ren's voice wavered. "She's not waking up."
Pyrrha was at his side in an instant, checking Nora's pulse and breathing. "She's alive, but... her aura feels weak. Like it's being drained."
My stomach churned. "No. Not her too."
Ren's hands trembled as he brushed Nora's hair from her face. "She was fine last night. She was fine."
I stood, grabbing Avalon from where it rested against the wall. "We need to figure this out. Fast. Whatever's doing this, it's getting closer. And now it's targeting us."
Pyrrha placed a comforting hand on Ren's shoulder. "We'll find a way to help her. But we need to act now."
Ren nodded, his jaw tightening as he stood. "Then we start with that sewer pipe. Whatever's behind this... it won't take another person."
We trudged deeper into the sewer pipe, the damp air clinging to our skin and the sound of trickling water echoing around us. Pyrrha took the lead, her shield at the ready, followed by me, and Ren bringing up the rear. The faint light from Pyrrha's torch flickered against the walls, casting long, shifting shadows.
Suddenly, the world around me faded. The damp, grimy sewer was gone, replaced by the familiar sight of the land of pink flowers. Only this time, it was different.
A village had sprung up amidst the endless blossoms. Little creatures made of crystal and paper bustled about, tending to their wooden homes built atop the spinning obelisks. Bridges of wood and rope connected the elevated houses, creating a patchwork of pathways that hung gracefully above the flowers. It was like stepping into a dream within a dream.
One of the paper creatures approached me, its stubby arms flailing as it made a series of high-pitched noises. It tugged at me—or at least tried to, its delicate paper hands failing to move me an inch.
"Hey, little guy," I said, crouching down. "I'm kinda busy right now. Can this wait?"
It didn't seem to understand, or maybe it didn't care. It kept gesturing frantically, its stubby arms pointing toward the heart of the village.
My aura instinctively reached for Avalon, but nothing happened. No glow, no pull. Just silence.
With a sigh, I relented. "Alright, alright. Lead the way."
The paper creature bounced excitedly and scampered off, motioning for me to follow. As we moved through the village, more of the crystal and paper beings emerged, waving and chattering in their strange, musical tones. I waved back absently, my focus split between them and the gnawing urgency in the back of my mind.
Nora needed us. I couldn't stay here long.
At the village center stood a massive statue—massive for them, at least. It depicted a knight, proud and imposing, with a rabbit-like creature with horns perched by his side. Beneath the knight's feet was the crushed form of what looked like a Grimm, its twisted shape captured in exquisite detail.
The little paper figure waved its arms wildly, clearly excited. It hopped up and down, pointing at the statue and then at me.
Before I could make sense of it, the tree in the distance began to glow. Its light washed over the village, and in a flash, I was back.
Golden light filled the tunnel, illuminating the sewer walls in a warm, radiant glow. Pyrrha and Ren turned to me, their expressions a mix of surprise and concern.
"Jaune, what just happened?" Pyrrha asked, lowering her shield slightly.
I looked down at my hand, where the source of the light was unmistakable. Beneath my gauntlet, a glowing triangle had appeared, etched into my skin. Its brilliance was steady, Lighting up the sewers with its light .
"Oh" I said, my voice shaky. "The triforce... really?" I whispered to myself.
Ren stepped closer, his brows furrowed. "That light...what does it do?"
I flex my fingers. The glow didn't fade. "a buff to make me better... with some implications, but nothing bad."
Pyrrha studied the mark intently. "It looks incomplete, the positioning seems odd?"
Ren nodded solemnly. "Then let's keep moving. The light might spook the Grimm, so let's head out now."
With renewed determination, we pressed on into the depths of the sewer, the golden light guiding our way.
CP Bank:100 cp
Perks earned this chapter :
400cp: Triforce of Courage (Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess) [Source]
You have been blessed by Farore, one of the three Goddesses and the creator of life. In addition to the great bravery you now possess- which allows you to fearlessly face terrifying monsters- you are also at the peak of physical fitness for your race and are naturally talented with weapons and adventuring tools, mastering basic techniques as soon as you pick them up and learning more advanced skills quickly. When the land is shrouded in Twilight, you'll be able to keep a physical body by taking on the form of a powerful wolf; post-Jump you'll be able to do this at will, and you resist similar body or mind altering magics much more easily. Finally, you possess one-third of the legendary Triforce- an omnipotent power left behind by the goddesses after they created the world. Although its power is greatly diminished on its own, bringing all three pieces of the Triforce together will grant unimaginable power.
Milestone reached this chapter :None
This time, it wasn't a huntsman. It was a civilian woman.
We arrived at the clinic to find a small crowd gathered outside, their faces a mixture of worry and frustration. The doctor was on the porch, doing his best to calm them down.
"I assure you, we're doing everything possible," he said, his voice strained. "This isn't contagious, but we need to be cautious. Please, return to your homes."
The crowd reluctantly dispersed, though their unease lingered in the air.
Inside the clinic, the atmosphere was even heavier. The woman lay on a cot, her breathing shallow and uneven. Unlike the huntsman from the day before, her condition was far worse. Without aura to support her, she looked like she was wasting away—her skin pale and her features gaunt, as if something were draining the life out of her.
The doctor glanced up as we entered, relief flashing across his face. "You're here. Good. This is getting worse by the hour."
"What's her condition?" Pyrrha asked, her tone steady but laced with concern.
The doctor gestured to the woman. "She's alive, but just barely. Without aura, whatever is affecting her is progressing much faster. It's like her body is shutting down, piece by piece."
I stepped closer, staring at her frail form. "What could do this? It's not poison, right? You ruled that out?"
The doctor nodded. "It's not poison, and it's not any disease I've seen. But there's something... off about her. It's as if her body is fighting against something we can't detect."
Ren crossed his arms, his sharp eyes scanning the room. "It's not random," he said, his voice calm but firm. "Something is targeting these people. There's a pattern here—we just haven't figured it out yet."
Nora's usual cheer was absent, replaced by a rare seriousness. "So what? It picks one person a night and just… sucks the life out of them? How do we stop it?"
"We need more information," Pyrrha said. "Doctor, did anyone see or hear anything unusual before this happened?"
The doctor frowned, thinking. "Her husband mentioned she woke up in the middle of the night. She said she felt like she was being watched. He thought it was just a nightmare, but when he woke up, she was like this."
"Watched…" I repeated, my stomach twisting. The word echoed in my mind, reminding me of the strange presence we'd felt back at the inn.
Pyrrha looked at me, her expression serious. "If it's choosing people, then it's still out there. Watching. Waiting."
I nodded, the weight of the situation pressing down on me. "We need to figure out what links the victims. Huntsmen and civilians don't usually have much in common."
Nora tapped her hammer against her shoulder, her jaw tight. "Whatever it is, when we find it, I'm smashing it."
"Carefully," Ren said, his tone measured. "We don't know what we're dealing with. If it can take down a huntsman and leave someone like this…" He gestured to the woman. "We can't afford to underestimate it."
I sighed, running a hand through my hair. "Alright, let's retrace her steps from yesterday. Maybe we'll find something the doctor missed."
Her husband guided us through the places she'd visited the day before. A small marketplace, a well where she'd drawn water, and her home on the edge of town.
None of it stood out. Everything seemed so… ordinary.
Back at the bunkhouse that evening, we sat in a circle, trying to piece together the clues.
"There's nothing linking the victims," Pyrrha said, frustration creeping into her voice. "The huntsman and the woman didn't even know each other."
"They don't have to," Ren said. "It's not about who they are—it's about what they have. Maybe it's something in their aura, or something that makes them vulnerable."
Nora groaned, flopping back onto the bunk she shared with Ren. "Great. So we're fighting some invisible thing that picks people at random and leaves no clues. How are we supposed to stop that?"
"We'll figure it out," I said, though I wasn't sure if I believed it. "We just need to keep our eyes open."
That night, as the town settled into an uneasy silence, I found myself staring at the ceiling of the bunkhouse, unable to sleep.
Then, just as I was starting to drift off, a commotion outside jolted me awake. Shouts echoed through the streets, followed by the sound of hurried footsteps.
I sat up, my heart racing. Pyrrha stirred beside me, her hand instinctively reaching for her weapon.
"What's going on?" she asked, her voice low.
Ren and Nora were already up, Ren slipping out of bed with practiced quiet while Nora grabbed her hammer.
"I don't know," I said, pulling on my boots. "But we're about to find out."
We stepped outside to find a group of townsfolk gathered near the clinic, their faces pale with fear.
Another person had fallen into a coma. This time, it was a young man.
And unlike the huntsman or the woman, he didn't look like he'd survive the night.
The clinic was packed with worried townsfolk, their murmurs blending into a low, anxious hum. The young man lay on the same cot where the civilian woman had been earlier, his condition even worse. His skin was pale and clammy, his breaths shallow, and his aura—if he even had any—was nonexistent.
I stepped forward, my heart pounding. I had to try.
The doctor looked up as I approached, his face lined with exhaustion. "young man, you can't—"
"I have to," I interrupted, my voice firm. "I might not be able to wake him up, but I can at least stabilize him. Give him a fighting chance."
Pyrrha placed a reassuring hand on my shoulder. "We're with you."
I nodded and knelt beside the cot, placing my hands gently on the young man's chest. Taking a deep breath, I closed my eyes and focused on the flow of my aura.
My hands began to glow with a soft blue light, the warmth spreading from my palms to his body. Avalon, my sheath, pulsed faintly at my side, amplifying the energy.
I could feel the faint spark of life within him, flickering like a candle in a storm. I poured my aura into him, carefully "topping off" what was left of his reserves. The blue glow brightened, and for a moment, his breathing steadied, his color improving slightly.
But no matter how much I tried, he didn't wake up.
I pulled back, my hands trembling and sweat beading on my forehead. "I… I can't wake him up," I said, frustration and guilt tightening my chest. "It's like something's holding him down, keeping him from coming back."
The doctor placed a hand on my shoulder. "You've done more than anyone else could, young man. His condition is stable for now, thanks to you."
Pyrrha knelt beside me, her voice soft. "You did everything you could. This isn't your fault."
"I know," I said, though it didn't make me feel any better. "But if we don't figure out what's causing this soon…" I trailed off, glancing at the young man.
Ren stepped forward, his expression unreadable. "We need to consider the possibility that this isn't something natural. Whatever's doing this—it's targeting people deliberately."
Nora crossed her arms, her hammer resting against her shoulder. "So what, we've got some kind of ghost picking people off one by one? How do we even fight that?"
"It's not a ghost," Ren said, his voice calm but firm. "But it might be something just as dangerous."
"Like what?" I asked, standing and wiping my hands on my pants.
Ren hesitated, his eyes narrowing in thought. "A Grimm."
The room fell silent.
"A Grimm that can do… this?" Pyrrha asked, gesturing to the unconscious man.
Ren nodded slowly. "There are reports. Grimm that attack the mind instead of the body. They're rare, but they exist. If this is one of them…"
"Then we're dealing with something we can't see or predict," I finished, the weight of the realization settling over me.
The doctor cleared his throat, drawing our attention. "If it is a Grimm, how do you plan to find it? Let alone stop it?"
I looked at my team, each of them wearing the same determined expression. "We'll figure it out," I said. "We don't have a choice."
As we left the clinic, the townsfolk parted to let us through, their eyes filled with a mix of hope and desperation.
I didn't have the heart to tell them I wasn't sure if we could save them. But I knew one thing for certain—we weren't giving up.
"So, from our research, the young man and the woman were in the same place—right here," I said, tapping a spot on the map of the town we'd stapled to the wall. It was a small plaza near the market district, surrounded by homes and shops.
"The old temple on the hill, however," I continued, bringing my hand to the side of the map, "is where the huntsman was found. But he wasn't anywhere near the plaza. He's been doing missions outside the town all week, only stopping by the inn to sleep."
Pyrrha crossed her arms, studying the map intently. "That doesn't add up. If it's a Grimm targeting people in specific locations, why would it attack someone who's barely been in town?"
Ren nodded, his brow furrowed. "It suggests two possibilities. Either it's not bound to a specific area, or it's not choosing victims based on proximity alone."
Nora leaned back in her chair, tapping her chin thoughtfully. "So, what? It's got a hit list or something? Picking people at random?"
"Not random," I said, shaking my head. "There has to be a connection.
Something linking these people together. We just haven't found it yet."
Pyrrha stepped closer to the map, her finger tracing a line between the plaza and the inn. "What about timing? Did the attacks happen at the same time of day?"
I glanced at the notes we'd jotted down. "Roughly, yeah. Late evening, just after sunset."
"That's something, at least," Ren said. "If it's active during a specific window, we might be able to narrow down its movements."
"But that still doesn't explain the huntsman," Pyrrha pointed out. "Why go after someone who's barely in town? And why attack someone with aura first, then a civilian? It feels… inconsistent."
"Maybe it's testing its limits?" Nora suggested. "Like, seeing how much it can drain from different types of people?"
The room fell silent as we all considered the possibility.
"Whatever the reason," I said finally, "we need to figure out how to track it down before it strikes again. If it is a Grimm, it's not going to stop on its own."
Ren nodded. "Agreed. But we'll need more information. Something to help us predict its next move."
"Then we start digging," Pyrrha said, determination in her voice. "We talk to anyone who might have seen something. Cross-reference their stories. There has to be a pattern here."
"And if there isn't?" Nora asked, her tone uncharacteristically serious.
"Then we make one," I said firmly. "We'll set a trap."
Pyrrha and I made our way south, following the dirt path toward the creek. The air was crisp, and the soft babble of water grew louder as we neared the area where the huntsman's mission had taken place. According to the town records, his job was to clear out a pack of Ursas spotted in the vicinity.
The forest around us was dense, the canopy above casting flickering shadows across the ground. Pyrrha walked a few steps ahead, her hand resting on the hilt of her weapon, her gaze sweeping the area.
"Keep your eyes open," she said quietly. "If there were Ursas here, there might be other Grimm lurking around."
"Got it," I replied, gripping Crocea Mors tightly.
We reached the creek, a narrow stream of clear water winding its way through the forest. The signs of battle were immediately apparent: deep gouges in the nearby trees, patches of disturbed earth, and faint traces of glittering dust residue scattered across the ground.
Pyrrha knelt by the water's edge, examining the ground. "This looks like the aftermath of a fight. The huntsman must have engaged the pack here."
I crouched beside her, pointing to a section of bark where a burn mark glimmered faintly. "Looks like he used Dust rounds in the fight. This residue must be from his weapon."
I scanned the area, following the flow of the creek with my eyes. "If he was hurt, maybe he tried to retreat along the water. It'd be an easy path to follow back to town."
Pyrrha nodded. "That's a reasonable assumption. Let's see where it leads."
We followed the creek upstream, the sound of running water guiding our steps. The forest grew denser, the air damp and heavy. After a while, the creek began to narrow, its flow slowing as the terrain became more uneven.
Then we spotted it: a rusted metal pipe protruding from the side of a hill, water trickling from its mouth into the creek. The pipe was large enough for a person to crawl through, its edges coated with grime and moss.
Pyrrha tilted her head, studying the pipe. "That's part of the city's sewer system. It must drain into the creek."
I frowned, stepping closer. "But why would a sewer pipe lead all the way out here, this far from the town?"
"Old infrastructure, maybe? Or an overflow system," Pyrrha suggested. "Either way, it's worth noting."
I peered into the dark opening of the pipe, the faint smell of decay wafting out. "If the huntsman came this way, maybe he tried to use the pipe for cover. Or... something else came out of it."
Pyrrha's expression grew serious. "We should report this to Ren and Nora. If this is connected to what's happening in town, we need to know what's inside that pipe."
"Agreed," I said, stepping back from the pipe. "Let's head back and regroup."
As we began the trek back to town, my thoughts lingered on Ren and Nora. They had gone to scout the old temple on the hill, searching for any clues that might explain the strange comas plaguing the town. I hoped their search had been more fruitful than ours, though the ominous discovery of the pipe left an uneasy feeling in my gut.
Back at the bunkhouse, Pyrrha and I found Ren and Nora waiting for us. Ren was seated at the small table, sipping tea, while Nora leaned against the wall, flipping a pancake in her hand like a frisbee.
"You're back!" Nora said cheerfully, tossing the pancake into the air and catching it on her plate. "Find anything cool?"
Pyrrha and I exchanged a glance before I spoke. "We followed the creek and found signs of a fight—likely where the huntsman encountered the Ursas. But the strange part is where the creek led us."
I unfolded the map on the table, tracing my finger along the creek's path. "It goes upstream to an old sewer pipe, big enough for something—or someone—to crawl through. It's out of place this far from town."
Ren frowned, setting his tea down. "A sewer pipe? Did you go inside?"
I shook my head. "No, we thought it'd be better to regroup first. But it feels... off. If the pipe connects to the town's sewer system, it might explain how whatever's causing this is getting around."
Pyrrha nodded. "What about you two? Did you find anything at the temple?"
Ren sighed. "The temple was abandoned, as expected. The furniture was a mess, benches, and chairs spread all over the place ."
"And some creepy vibes," Nora added, spinning her fork dramatically. "It's like the whole place was holding its breath, waiting for something to happen."
"Between the temple and the pipe, it's clear we're dealing with something that can move around unnoticed," I said, leaning on the table. "We should check the sewer pipe first thing tomorrow. If it's connected to the town's systems, it might lead us to the source."
"Agreed," Ren said. "We'll need to be cautious, though. Whatever's causing this has already taken down a huntsman and two civilians."
Nora grinned, cracking her knuckles. "Don't worry. If it shows up, I'll smash it into next week."
Pyrrha smiled at her enthusiasm, though her expression remained serious. "Let's get some rest. We'll need to be sharp for tomorrow."
We all agreed and settled into our bunks. Ren and Nora shared one, as usual, with Nora curling up like a contented cat. Pyrrha and I shared the other, Tigger nestled in his cot nearby. The room fell quiet as we drifted off to sleep, the soft hum of the town outside lulling us into slumber.
The next morning, I woke to sunlight streaming through the small window. Pyrrha stirred beside me, stretching gracefully before sitting up. Tigger was already awake, pawing at the edge of the cot.
Ren was up as well, sipping tea by the window. But something was off. Nora hadn't moved.
"Nora?" Ren called softly, setting his cup down and walking over to her bunk. She didn't respond.
He gently shook her shoulder. "Nora, wake up."
Still nothing.
I sat up, my heart sinking. "What's wrong?"
Ren's voice wavered. "She's not waking up."
Pyrrha was at his side in an instant, checking Nora's pulse and breathing. "She's alive, but... her aura feels weak. Like it's being drained."
My stomach churned. "No. Not her too."
Ren's hands trembled as he brushed Nora's hair from her face. "She was fine last night. She was fine."
I stood, grabbing Avalon from where it rested against the wall. "We need to figure this out. Fast. Whatever's doing this, it's getting closer. And now it's targeting us."
Pyrrha placed a comforting hand on Ren's shoulder. "We'll find a way to help her. But we need to act now."
Ren nodded, his jaw tightening as he stood. "Then we start with that sewer pipe. Whatever's behind this... it won't take another person."
We trudged deeper into the sewer pipe, the damp air clinging to our skin and the sound of trickling water echoing around us. Pyrrha took the lead, her shield at the ready, followed by me, and Ren bringing up the rear. The faint light from Pyrrha's torch flickered against the walls, casting long, shifting shadows.
Suddenly, the world around me faded. The damp, grimy sewer was gone, replaced by the familiar sight of the land of pink flowers. Only this time, it was different.
A village had sprung up amidst the endless blossoms. Little creatures made of crystal and paper bustled about, tending to their wooden homes built atop the spinning obelisks. Bridges of wood and rope connected the elevated houses, creating a patchwork of pathways that hung gracefully above the flowers. It was like stepping into a dream within a dream.
One of the paper creatures approached me, its stubby arms flailing as it made a series of high-pitched noises. It tugged at me—or at least tried to, its delicate paper hands failing to move me an inch.
"Hey, little guy," I said, crouching down. "I'm kinda busy right now. Can this wait?"
It didn't seem to understand, or maybe it didn't care. It kept gesturing frantically, its stubby arms pointing toward the heart of the village.
My aura instinctively reached for Avalon, but nothing happened. No glow, no pull. Just silence.
With a sigh, I relented. "Alright, alright. Lead the way."
The paper creature bounced excitedly and scampered off, motioning for me to follow. As we moved through the village, more of the crystal and paper beings emerged, waving and chattering in their strange, musical tones. I waved back absently, my focus split between them and the gnawing urgency in the back of my mind.
Nora needed us. I couldn't stay here long.
At the village center stood a massive statue—massive for them, at least. It depicted a knight, proud and imposing, with a rabbit-like creature with horns perched by his side. Beneath the knight's feet was the crushed form of what looked like a Grimm, its twisted shape captured in exquisite detail.
The little paper figure waved its arms wildly, clearly excited. It hopped up and down, pointing at the statue and then at me.
Before I could make sense of it, the tree in the distance began to glow. Its light washed over the village, and in a flash, I was back.
Golden light filled the tunnel, illuminating the sewer walls in a warm, radiant glow. Pyrrha and Ren turned to me, their expressions a mix of surprise and concern.
"Jaune, what just happened?" Pyrrha asked, lowering her shield slightly.
I looked down at my hand, where the source of the light was unmistakable. Beneath my gauntlet, a glowing triangle had appeared, etched into my skin. Its brilliance was steady, Lighting up the sewers with its light .
"Oh" I said, my voice shaky. "The triforce... really?" I whispered to myself.
Ren stepped closer, his brows furrowed. "That light...what does it do?"
I flex my fingers. The glow didn't fade. "a buff to make me better... with some implications, but nothing bad."
Pyrrha studied the mark intently. "It looks incomplete, the positioning seems odd?"
Ren nodded solemnly. "Then let's keep moving. The light might spook the Grimm, so let's head out now."
With renewed determination, we pressed on into the depths of the sewer, the golden light guiding our way.
CP Bank:100 cp
Perks earned this chapter :
400cp: Triforce of Courage (Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess) [Source]
You have been blessed by Farore, one of the three Goddesses and the creator of life. In addition to the great bravery you now possess- which allows you to fearlessly face terrifying monsters- you are also at the peak of physical fitness for your race and are naturally talented with weapons and adventuring tools, mastering basic techniques as soon as you pick them up and learning more advanced skills quickly. When the land is shrouded in Twilight, you'll be able to keep a physical body by taking on the form of a powerful wolf; post-Jump you'll be able to do this at will, and you resist similar body or mind altering magics much more easily. Finally, you possess one-third of the legendary Triforce- an omnipotent power left behind by the goddesses after they created the world. Although its power is greatly diminished on its own, bringing all three pieces of the Triforce together will grant unimaginable power.
Milestone reached this chapter :None
- Pronouns
- He/Him
To be honest, I never liked the concept of the Nightmare Grimm. It's a Grimm that can infest people and once it does that person slowly dies, and the only way to stop it is one person with an oddly specific Semblance? It never really seemed to fit with the rest of the Grimm presented in the show and I feel like it was created solely to be the plot device of a "Journey into the Mind" episode.
Oh shit the sisters are about to come to Rwby now
- Location
- Florida
- Pronouns
- He
It is super op, as you either need to kill it inside your mind or having a op semblance to pull a inception.
I thought of a way to get them out, hopefully you guys like it.
Honestly that would be a great outcome especially if the goddess Hylia comes too. Just imagine four loving goddesses on par or stronger than the brothers and not bogged down by a connection to the planet like Gaia and Alaya.
Are you one of the two brother? Because that how they would react to other gods finding the mess they made.
Is that how it works? Honest question, because I always figured it was just like a green lantern kinda thing. Ya know "Hal Jordan, you have the ability to overcome great fear," kinda thing except with the Triforce. "Ganondorf, you have the ability to wield great power." Like that, and that the goddesses aren't actually involved at all
I'd argue that between Din and Demise, Demise has a far greater influence on Ganondorf. And that Din doesn't appreciate her chosen having the curse. If he behaved the way he does on his own terms and of his own free will rather than being twisted to his hatred, I think Din would be okay with it. But Demise doing it? No, I don't think Din would appreciate that at all. And yet, nobody in the series embodies Power better.