AN: Sorry, it should have been out sooner. I just lost the chapter so I had to rewrite it. It's a lot different than before thus far. I don't think it turned out all that well. Nonetheless, here's a new chapter!
"Talking" -
(Thoughts/Thinking)
Grimm Form Speech
Attacks!
.
"This is the end of this charade..."
.
Enough of this mockery..
Grow? I have; I realised what was truly important
Heroism? Useless! It brings nothing but weakness!
The fact that that woman, that illusion had the gulls to say that I am unsatisfied!
I showed no reaction as I gazed upon the visage of Aston Arc in the mirror's reflection
An enormous grin overtook the Patriarch's face. How pathetic. Is the mirror supposed too say that I turned into my father?! I don't care...
Tell me, creature. What was wrong?
I was a child, not knowing anything.. I tried, I used to try so hard to achieve my dreams; all of that while being weak. And when I truly realised what to do, you know what I had then.,
Purpose
I have true purpose now…
Then why try and take it from me? To encourage me? To test me? Or are you trying to hold me back? Stopping me from taking the power that I want?
I touched the mirror softly, stoicism that I was so used to apparent on my face
I am not like him.. the man in the reflection, I am not like him!
My fist curled inwards, Grimm claws apparent
My glowing blue eyes stared emotionlessly at Ashton's smug, grinning face
I am not like him… I am my own self..
For a nanosecond I saw my own Grimm Form.. I was reminded of everything that happened..
.
BAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAMMMMMM!
.
"YOU MOCK ME?!"
.
My voice came out dark and guttural. Fully that of a Grimm
KILL IT! KILL IT! KILL IT! KILL IT! KILL IT! KILL IT! KILL IT! KILL IT! KILL IT! KILL IT! KILL IT! KILL IT! KILL IT! KILL IT! KILL IT!KILL IT! KILL IT! KILL IT! KILL IT! KILL IT!
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"SHOW YOURSELF, COWARD!"
.
My Grimm claws went straight through the mirror! With a grip strong enough to crush the strongest of metals I grabbed Ashton's face and launched him with enough force that he launched into the ground…
CRAAAAAAAAAASSSSSHHH!
SHATTER!
.
'Calm down' I repeated to myself, 'Calm down' 'Calm down' 'Calm down' soon, I did..
….
.
….
.
….
.
….
I left my Grimm Form, knowing I wasn't able to maintain it much longer. Better to save it for later. This place is a memory after all, not a dream, I could die if I'm not careful
"Show yourself….." - I murmured emotionlessly
I looked through the shattered mirror, noticing the different landscape
The landscape appeared to be nothing short of an expansive, seemingly everlasting landscape with a charcoal-like black ground amidst a glowing ocean blue horizon and the dark, dull white skies that had blurred faces watching with constant malice and hatred
Giving a calm glance towards Crocea Mors and the amulet, melancholy in my eyes; but I must make it show itself
Stepping through the shattered mirror, Imperium sheathed and held in my left hand, I noticed the fact that the moment I went straight through it everything behind me vanished
So, it's keeping me here. No way back..
Good
I raised an eyebrow at the fact that the illusion of the Arc Patriarch was melting into the ground
"Show yourself…
My Nightmare…"
I heard the sound of mud gurgling, it was quite unpleasant to hear… I know, surprising
Charcoal ground around me shifted, rumbling as mud leaked from it.
Black oily and veiny tendrils sparked all around me, forming a 'cage' of sorts. Amusing, to say the least
"There you are…" - My voice was calm, why should I feel something else? I know what's going on
Nightmare… to describe it as best as I can its form was that of a bizarre pool of black slime, plates made of Grimm bone and a number of skulls, human and Grimm, were partially submerged within it
Its height grew and grew, dwarfing mine by several meters. Its height was now the equivalent of a small tower
There was nothing humanoid about the creature, no features or limbs
"… Are you going to start now?" - I asked calmly
….
… Nothing, no response
Deciding to investigate it, I walked over to it. Slowly I brought my hand to the plates - "Hm, quite col-"
!?
a spear-like object will thrust out to eliminate whatever is in the way!
I twisted my body and dodged it easily enough. Another one came and I dodged it easily enough as well
I jumped back, eyebrow raised as I considered the thing - "So, you've got defensive mechanisms against me? Interesting…." - I continued - "So, is that all?"
I heard the sound of something gurgling, like mud coming through pipes
SLPLUR SLPLUR SPLUR
"...Not bad…" - My eyes gained an intense look, I knew my mouth formed a wicked smirk - (Yes… yes..)
Nightmare… to be formed out of my own thoughts and memories. Considering you came from me this should be interesting
The plates of Grimm bone formed a rhinoceros-like face with red eyes that stared at me with an intense focus
BZZZZZZZZZT!
Nightmare fired a thick laser, the size of a tower, straight ahead!
I Tricked out of the way, grey blur following behind me.
SCREEEEECH!
The laser went straight through every area, until it went out of my sight!
"..." - Decent, to say the least - "A distraction, hm?"
Good, it's all going according to plan
A black tendril curled around my leg. Just as I planned, just as I expected
I said nothing as the black liquid enveloped me
Black-black-black, nothing but disgusting black mud was all I could see
When I could finally see around me I saw a single crimson, glowing eye staring at me with intense focus
"What do you want?" - I questioned - "Now that we finally have the opportunity to speak to the other like this."
"..."
"Tch, precisely what I get for trying this tactic. Fine than, if you won't listen to me, I'll do it by myself.." - Was my cold statement
This is what 'negotiation' gets you
GURGLE!
From the corner of my I... I noticed it; The core… a crimson red core… It took the shape of a crimson sphere surrounded by aqua-blue shadowy mist
There, precisely what I expected
The core of Nightmare can be compared to the soul of a Human or Faunus; the core of something is vital for something to exist. To interfere with the core of Nightmare would make my plan much easier
However, I have to be careful, if I messed this up I would remove Nightmare from existence. Something that would be extremely damaging to myself and my plans
"Jaune!"
No.. not this again…
"Running away so suddenly! You gave your Grandma a heart attack!"
.
… There she stood again, blocking the way to the core. This unknown woman calling herself my 'grandma'. If that's so Aura must be quite the boon to have…
"... Get out of my way…" - I attempted to dismiss her…. it did not work, much to my dismay, she stayed there; she looked like a disappointed parent
.
"Don't leave me again, Jaune!"
.
"Get out of my way!" - I saw the core quickly fading
.
"My boy… after everything we've done together. You….you'd throw it away for this?"
She seemed like the saddest woman on the planet
.
I couldn't help but feel an agonizing regret, like a burning metal going straight through my guts
Why.. why couldn't I move?
I saw the core being hidden away by Nightmare
I walked forward, planning on pushing her to the side.
I did
With a harsh push she seemed shocked, hurt and enraged; but most of all disappointed
Right before my hand could reach it, the woman grabbed it and pulled me to her. Considering I was unprepared to this she succeeded
I tried to unsheath Imperium to stab her; noticing this she did something unexpected
She hugged me
"Jaune….."
Her voice quivered
.
I tore myself out of the embrace; this won't work on me! Never again! - "Get off of me…" - I sneered, disgust
.
"Jaune…. what made you this way?"
.
"Me! I made myself this way! No one else! That is the answer! Now leave me!" - I sneered darkly
.
"I see now…"
She murmured, tears striking her face
"You… you hate me, don't you?"
.
"No… I don't.." - I refuted, somehow…. I couldn't find it myself to hate her. Like she means something to me.
But why? Why for the life of me couldn't I remember?
Why-why-why-why-why?!
.
"So, are you going to do it again? Kill me?"
She questioned angrily, like her mood did a 180
"Leave it! After everything we've done together you snapped when I got ill? When I started losing my mind?! You coward! You're worse than any monster on the planet!"
.
"I…."
"I'm sorry…"
But… I can't stop now. Not after everything I've done..
"I won't stop… you know why? Huh? You know why, Nightmare?... BECAUSE POWER IS ALL THAT MATTERS! YOU KNOW WHAT I SAW WHEN I CAME BACK FROM THE 'DEAD'?! A BLASTED PARTY! A PARTY CELEBRATING MY 'DEATH!" - I roared, tired from all of this! - "THEY WERE HAPPY! NPR WAS DELIRIOUS WITH MY SUPPOSED DEMISE! THE ARC'S THREW PARTIES THAT LASTED FOR DAYS! THEY WERE HAPPY! TO OUM WITH THEM! I HATE THEM! I HATE EVERY SINGLE ONE OF THEM!"
.
The woman said nothing, her face oddly slack
.
Enough of this... I'm tired of it...
"Enough of the past. Enough of those voices. What happened happened. I will not revert into who I once was. I refuse to let the past bind me… I will do it all my way. Not the manner Jaune Arc would have done it.."
The past was the past. It happened and there's no use obsessing over it anymore. I'll settle it, I'll take back Crocea Mors and that Amulet.
And I don't care what happens to the world around me, I don't care who stands in my way.. I will achieve my goal!
.
The little boy, Jaune Arc, looked at me with an emotionless gaze as he held out the sword and amulet.
He spoke a simple set of words with a twisted smirk, fitting his now Grimmified Body
"You finally understand… You truly understand it all now.."
.
"...Might controls everything - and without strength, I cannot protect anything; let alone myself."
Power… more power….
"V̶e̴r̴y̴ ̶w̶e̷l̷l̸ ̸t̴h̸e̷n̵"
"Heh, so.. you do speak…"
"Y̢̲͇̝̖͍̘͖̲̗͉̒͂͒̊͊̀̐͋͛͋̕͢͡͠ͅo̡̢͈͔͙̦͖̤̮͖̮͍̱̭̘̙̳͇̦̠̻̙̦͐̐̎̅̓͋̄́̂̒̀̑̌̌͆͋̒̒̾̀̿͘͢͟͝͞͝ų̺̫̺͙̞̞͚̩͍̹̭̦̻͆̉̌͂̾̐͂͐̊̀̀̒̊͛̚͢͢͡͞ͅ ̧̢͇͇̖̭͉̩̥͇̗̗͎̭̜͉̼̩͓̩̥̰̣̦̼͈̿͑̓͒͋́̓̃̏̾̐̓͒͒͊̕̕͘̕̕͞͠͞͠͡͡͠ͅa͔͓̻̝̓̅̀͝n̫̻͕̍͋͛͢͝d̮͔̮̞̤͕͕̫̳̫̄̅̆͑́̿̓͘̕͡͞ͅ ̨̡̛͓͓̣͔̗̜̹̞̣̰̭͙̮̘͓͇̦̫̹̼̦̪̜̓̐̎̇̓̐̏͒͆͗̍͂̓̈́͛̂̓͋̒͗̏̏̕̕͜͟͞͞I̛̯̖̻͈̲͌͆̑͐̉̎͟͟ ̡̳̗̲̯͉̥̙̟̩̓̓̓́̽̇̑̂̿̚͟͡á̡̢̛̹̥̘̥̫̪̰̰͒̿́͐̾̉̆̿̔̐̕͟͢͟͟͠ŗ̜̺̺̻̙̰̲͎͙̙̺̺̤̜̠̹̮͓̭̫͙̓̿̒̌̆́̓̾̽̿̍́̀̄̈̈̈̿̍̀͗̾̚͟é̡̩̭͕͖̰̝̺̫̗̯̞͇̻̙̯͎͑̿́͗͑́̈́̄͌͊̉̊̓̒̓̚̕̕͢͢ ̨̟̻͉̟̬͉͇͉͗̈͑̌̀̀̽̏́̕͟͜͜͡͝͡ͅo̜̳̰̣͕͎͎̙̓̂͌̇̄̿̐̅̓͘͘͜͟͢n̢̨̨̛̖̻̪̗̗̗͙̤̖͖̹̟̙̤͓̖̠̲̼̓̈́̿͋̄̉̂̎́̒́́̑̃̉̊̎̕̕͢͝͞͝͞ͅę͖̩̱̳̳̙̫̺̗̳̪͖̥̯͂̏̒̈́́͒̂̒̒̌̑̓͆̕͘͠ͅ"
.
.
Within my hand I held it, the core of Nightmare.
"I know that…"
The core; whether I snatched it discreetly or it appeared in my hand… I'll leave that to your imagination
"Your… core. Soul. Whatever this is, it allows you to live within my being…" - I held out the core to Nightmare - "It's fostered from my own thoughts and mind. Right? Without it you'd die…."
Staring at the glowing crimson eyes I held my hand out, Nightmare's core within his reach…. - "You recognize your own creator, don't you?"
STAB!
A sharp, gargantuan spear entered my guts
I spoke with blood coming from my mouth - "These feelings… the human heart… the heart is the cause of that. These emotions tormenting me… I must rid myself of that weakness…."
The woman was gone now, having vanished without my notice
.
"T͊̏͟͟h͍͌e ė̯̖͞m͚̊ot͓̜̤͌̄̅̂ͅi̬̠͛̀ǫ̙̤͔̆̓͗͠ns̗͔͋̌̚͟ ̫̗̋̅t̡͎̠̾̇̿͢͞h̟̠̮̎̂̕ȧ̭t̥̯̺̓͐͡ ͖͡r̯̮̻̳̈́̔͋͞é͎̰̞̱͊͋̒s̬͗i̙͍̦̾͆͘͟͡ď͇e͖̗̠̊̈́͑̿͢ ͎̭̲̪̦͑̎͑̀͞ŵ̨i̼̹͋͠t͕̬̮͔̂̍͋͠ḧ͖i͍͌n̬̳͓̦͈͒͛͒͝͞ ̬̥̀̑t̫͙̾̽ḥ̭͔͐̓̓e̡̐ ̠͍̒̉́͜͢͝h̭̹̠͑̽͒̕͢ṵ͍͇͙͗̒̌̒mä̱́n ̺͔͇͖̐̊̄̂͒ͅh̻̓e̼̱͊̒ä̳r̯̮͚̆͊̾t͔̆ ̹͡ȋ̪s̝̭̿́ t̬̞͍͎̦̊̑̊͋͡ẖ̡̘̮̟̎̀̉̈́͞ĕ͎͕̞͍̓̾̄̚ͅ ̡̠̭̱͚̉͗̉͗̕s̠͎͔̞̟̾̓̀̅͊o̞͌uŗ̛͉͓͓͌̔̚͘͟c͎̼̣̫̉̍̅̕e̖̟̋̚ ̩̘̬̤̏́̈́͝ô̖̰͖͒́f̘̫̹̭̙̔̏͌̒͑ w̺̪̟͒̈͂̽͢e̢̝̩̠̞̽͛̈̂̚a̛͚̣̻̬͂͆͠k̛̤̖̂͌͢n̨̯̦͌͗̔͜͡é͓͡ͅs̯̩̬̣̀͌̚͢͞͡s͍̮͂͊̈́̐͜ͅ"
.
Nightmare's black mud surrounded me; until all I saw was a single, glowing crimson orb
.
GURGLE GURGLE GURGLE GURGLE
The black mud entered my body!
.
I saw nothing but black mud, it felt like my very being was being destroyed and rebuilt!
.
"I must discard it! The feeble human heart that makes me as a weakling!"
.
What made me strong? Not my heart. But the Grimm within me. The superhuman feats I perform? My power? Not from my humanity… It's all thanks to my Grimm heritage I became strong..
But these emotions.. those nightmares. They all stemmed from my Humanity
And thus;
.
"It is unneeded!"
.
.
"Jaune! Jaune! Wake up damnit!" - A voice exclaimed with worry,
Blue orbs with small black splotches opened. Jaune sat straight up, looking at his surroundings with no emotion.
"I….Where am I?"
Griffith's odd eyes narrowed at Jaune, the bird flying close to him - "What happened?!"
"Keep quiet" - Jaune stated stoically - "I was merely… dealing with an issue of mine."
"I.. see," - Griffith noticed something within Jaune's blue orbs; the black splotches on them looking odd - "Something you wanna share?"
"No." - His tone was that of finality and monotone
"..Okay," - Griffith murmured, - "Though, your clothes are kinda ruined, a bit."
Jaune raised an eyebrow, looking at the cuts and dirt in his clothes. Odd. - "How had this happened?"
"You started grunting and talking when you took your little nap. Then you started babbling like a crazy person while you clawed at yourself! I even saw some of your organs. And to top it all of, it for a good twenty minutes before you woke!" -Griffith explained!
"..He..'" - Jaune did not smirk, merely having his stoic expression on; he remembered what Nightmare had done to him. - "Did I now?"
.
Tens of roots bound themselves to his body, they shone darkly; burning into his flesh
His eyes only showed the whites, though they were reddening
"AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHH!"
A roar of agony came out from his throat!
His skin started turning paler. Blood leaking from his mouth as his veins glowed and unnaturally bulged out.
The torture reappeared in his mind…
.
(I see… I have quite the way to go…) - Jaune thoughts were similar to that of a robot - "This… this isn't nearly enough of what I need.. "
"More.. I need more power…."
Jaune murmured, his eyes showing a frightening intensity. Madness and obsession intertwined so close they almost became one. Why not? After all, power is the measure of a man in his eyes..
"...Let's go, Griffith." - Jaune stated, his voice and expression returning to its former stoicness in less than a nanosecond.
Griffith, seeing the rapid change in expression quickly decided to agree - "Sure, Jaune. To Blakey first?"
"No, to a tailor. I must first repair my attire; perhaps even make a few changes…" - Jaune stated monotonously
.
.
Blake Belladonna entered the shifty, though uneven, stone building. She had hidden herself by going from alleyway to shadow and shadow to alleyway.
She climbed upon a muddy roof and eyed it. The building she was living in; The outside of the flatlet is surrounded by scaffolding from previous failed projects. The main entrance was sealed, and thus the only known alternative is through a window located in the middle of the half finished, abandoned and falling apart flatlet.
Elegantly, like a ninja, she climbed in the abandoned building.
The interior of the flatlet is primarily formed of brick and wood. The upstairs living quarters consisted of a large workshop, which Blake used to repair and upgrade her equipment. The downstairs living quarters mainly consisted of a bed, washing bowl, and basic kitchen setup, located on the right, alongside a table and a chair. Her books were set neatly on the table.
"Well, took you long enough!" - A voice taunted, one not of Jaune.
Immediately she turned around to the source of the sound, Gambol Shroud drawn in an instant. Thinking that the Faunus Hunters had found out about here she fired immediately!
Bang!
The sound of something hard deflecting the bullet was heard!
She noticed Jaune sitting in her chair, that weird bird of his. The bird in question was sending her a look that said 'really?'
Jaune looked a bit different as he sat there, reading with his sheathed katana in one hand and the reading material in the other. Attire wise and physically he had changed a lot since Beacon; Jaune had fair, yet very pale skin.. something she knew he didn't have when they met at Torchwick's. He had a slightly worn face, but it did not harm his handsome features, it simply made him look older than what she knew he was. He had blackish-dark blonde, slicked back hair, which put emphasis on the stoic expression on his face. The emotion he showed was the same as a brick wall.
His dull, deep blue eyes had small black splotches.
Jaune wore a long, grey buttoned black coat with three separated coattails. A grey serpentine pattern ran around the collar, with a snakes head hanging over the coat's left shoulder, and its tail slinking down the right, all the way to the bottom of the coat. A grey lining runs across the edges of the coat, and a tree with expanding roots formed a pattern that decorated the inner lining. Each cuff of the coat also had five grey buttoned straps with grey lining; the coat now also featured identical straps on each shoulder, decorated with silver buttons instead of grey.
Underneath the coat Jaune now wore a black sleeveless zippered-turtleneck, and above the turtleneck was a charcoal grey, sleeveless formal vest and over the vest was a charcoal grey ascot tie. He wore black pants and black boots covered by teal gaiters with several straps.
From shoulder to elbow was a visible pattern/logo that intersected with itself, it resembled thin roots of a tree criss-crossing into one another. Ending with two sharp ends. The pattern was somewhat jagged, somehow making it look sinister
Jaune was much taller than her. His voice, height, attire and most predominantly his demeanor made him very sinister and intimidating.
Closing a… comic book? She couldn't tell as he put it away.
"An interesting place you have, Blake." - Jaune stated in monotone, - "Tucked away somewhere abandoned. Though quite cliche.."
"Cliché! You tell me!?" - The bird stated upon Jaune's shoulder - "Look at her! Hiding in plain sight!"
"Hmm," - Jaune hummed monotonously.
"Jaune… you got here fast." - Blake said - "And the bird..talks?"
"He is unique like that...:" - Jaune responded.
"'Course I'm unique! I'm me, after all!" - Griffith voiced with pride!
Blake smiled, the excitement in the bird's voice was infectious! Looking at Jaune, eyes meeting she saw… nothing. No emotion. Odd part was that it almost seemed.. natural for him now.
"So, you were going to talk about…?" - Jaune stated monotonously.
"The Faunus Hunters," - Blake said the name with distaste, amber eyes gained a genuine hatred - "That disgusting group is remorseless, cruel, and fanatical members of organization committed to the persecution and eradication of Faunus."
"So, is this order based on something?" - Jaune questioned stoically. - "How was it created?"
"They are related to a religion that was formed in four years with help of the Mistralian government to counter the rising power of Faunus." - Blake quickly explained.
"Last time I read about the placesWhite Fang Extremist behavior were being exhibited. The actions had gotten many people killed," - Jaune stated stoically - "That had been going on for around.. eight years, if I remember correctly." - Jaune continued, unwilling to admit his memories were fuzzy to Blake, or whether he was doing something else?... - "Don't you think that could have influenced the organization to its genocidal ways?"
"Maybe," - Blake murmured quietly, - "But that doesn't condone genocide! Regardless if the White Fang targeted Mistral the most.."
Both Jaune and Griffith could tell Blake was hiding something much bigger
The edges of Jaune's lips tugged upwards - "I did not say I condone genocide," - Jaune stated - "But enough of that. You said you were trying to atone for something. Are you trying to help the Faunus escape the town?"
"You got that right," - Blake said - "I… I need to help them!" - She vowed - "My people… my kind being killed like this. I won't allow it anymore! We were so close to equality and I won't let some arrogant, racist of a minister kill of the Faunus species!" - She sneered.
"Welp than, Jaune, we've got our work cut out for us!" - Griffith stated with something that resembled an excited grin, though something much sinister was behind it. - "You got a plan, kitty?"
Jaune looked at Blake with a raised eyebrow, curious to know her plan - "I would like to know more about this plan you might have."
"The docks are shut down and the Faunus Hunters are preventing anyone from leaving, Faunus that are found killed, burned, drowned. But before all they are mostly torture their victims." - She explained with animosity. - "So… I'm going to get a boat, a boat big enough for all the survivors to get on and then we'll discreetly leave. But in order to do that I need several things; documents to fool the Hunters that we're a cargo ship, along with some forged orders for them not to search the ship."
"Do you even have a ship?" - Jaune deadpanned.
"That's what I'm working on!" - Blake snapped!
No reaction. Just an intense stare.
"S-sorry. It… It's just been the stress that's getting to me.." - Blake said apologetically. Could she help it? She was so busy and stressed out for the last couple of months!
"..." - Blake looked at Jaune's face, seeing nothing but stone-cold stoicism.
"I'm working with Torchwick in order to get everything I need for my plan. I've already managed to pay him enough to get a place underground where I can hide my Brothers and Sisters. But I still have some bigger problems to take care of." - She told him honestly.
Griffith and Jaune had both listened intently, making their own thoughts and plans.
"Than, I would like to be of assistance in this matter." - Jaune said honestly, hiding his sinister plans - (Yes… this could be very useful..)
Griffith just stared at Jaune in astonishment, not knowing why he'd want to help this Kitty-Woman. - (HELP HER?! WHAT DO WE GET FROM THIS?) - His thoughts were over exaggerated as always.
"You.. you want to help me?" - She was astonished, that's for sure. - (But… he helped me without hesitation in Beacon, so even if he looks and talks different, I don't think he's changed all that much.)
Poor Blake, Jaune wasn't planning on helping her out of kindness. He had plans for her after all…
Jaune had changed, the trip in his 'memory world' and talking to Nightmare had done that. Turning him from a cold man obsessed with power and his past. He had become a stoic, uncaring, selfish man obsessively chasing one thing,
Power.
Though the change might have seemed small, Jaune's personality had changed due to that
"Sure, Kittykat, we'll help!" - Griffith exclaimed, Jaune gave her a robotic nod of agreement.
She allowed a small smile to play upon her lips, Jaune was a good friend. A really good friend.
(Foolish girl.) - Were Jaune's thoughts, - (Too easy… Too trusting of me..) - Really, it was Blake's own fault for thinking Jaune remained the same as she remembered. People change, after all.
"So, the bird. Is it some kinda parrot?" - Blake asked, allowing some emotion to slip into her monotone voice.
"PARROT?!" - Griffith roared! - "ME? A parrot?! Are you kidding me right now?!"
Blake recoiled, shocked at the outraged voice of, what she presumed to be, Jaune's pet bird.
"Hear that, Jaune? Me, just a parrot! Me?!" - Griffith asked Jaune while the sentient bird ranted.
Jaune, as usual, responded with his stoic voice as he answered without emotion, - "Blake, he is no simple bird. That is all. I would like for there to be no more question about him."
"Okay, Jaune." - She tried to revert back to her inexpressive expression, but failed. - "So, I've got a meeting with Torchwick in a two days. You coming with?"
"Sure we will, Kittycat!" - Griffith said with a voice that sounded much like sarcasm, was it? - "How about it raining gold? That seems possible too, right?"
"..." - Now Blake was confused, - (Why is it so offended?)
"Now, Blake, I would prefer to speak of something else." - Jaune spoke stoically.
"What about?" - An elegant eyebrow was raised on her face, she was curious. That's for sure.
"Earlier, at the hideout of Torchwick, he spoke of you and I harming his.. 'business'. I would prefer it if you would clarify this." - Was the stoic reply.
"What do you mean?" - Blake questioned Jaune, - "You know what we did, don't you?"
…
"I…sustained an injury at my skull, somewhat harming my brain. I merely have some issues with my memory due to this." - Jaune explained monotonously, - (I hate this.. I hate having to tell this.) - But she'd question him, be suspicious of him if he didn't give an explanation.
And he couldn't have that, could he?
"Are you okay?!" - She questioned worriedly, - (How? Did someone do this to him? How'd it happen?)
Griffith's eyes widened in shock, the bird was worried for his partner - (What?!) - The bird familiar's eyes narrowed and than widened ever so small - (That scar on the left side of his forehead. It was so faded I couldn't even see it till now! It looks like someone stabbed him through his skull!)
"Yes. I am fine…" - A half truth, but part of the truth nonetheless. He had a huge suspicion about what caused that trip to the 'memory world'.
Blake took a couple of steps forward, approaching him - "Are you sure? We can talk-"
"I prefer not to speak of it." - Jaune stated monotonously, - "But, I would prefer to have my question answered."
The more he knew, the better.
"Okay. To start off there isn't much to say… I was in some trouble with the White Fang. You saw that and followed me. After that we helped each other, we became.. friends?" - She seemed unsure of it, though a twinkle of something else was in her amber orbs. Desire, perhaps? - "There isn't much else to say besides the fact that we worked together for a couple of months before you… weren't around anymore…" - Blake seemed saddened by the fact, Jaune's thoughts though?
"Hm? And he helped you out of the kindness of his heart?" - Griffith voiced sarcastically. He didn't mean to come across as mean. But Jaune was quite a selfish man, though it was quite good that Jaune considered Griffith his ally.
Blake shrugged at the bird. She'd seen some weird, almost paranormal things when in Beacon. And when working with the rest of her, now, disbanded team.
She wouldn't be lying if she said she missed them…
"I guess so? Point is," - She looked at Jaune, who returned the gaze with his unreadable stoic stare. - "I trust you, Jaune. We've fought together and treated each other like friends. Why wouldn't I?"
Although Jaune paid attention, his thoughts were the following. - (Why? Why would I help her without anything in return?!) - He gained nothing from it! What a fool he used to be!
"I see then, Blake. Tell me when and where you're meeting Torchwick and I'll be there."
.
.
Jaune and Griffith stood upon a roof, the Human-Grimm Hybrid leaned against the watertower while reading a comic book. Jaune always had a love for comic books.
X-Ray & Vav, the issue he always carried with him since he was a child. The one that he had received from that woman oh so long ago. That was what he was reading.
As Jaune was reading it Griffith flew to him, - "So, Jaune, what's the plan. Why are we helping her?"
Jaune's face gained a smirk, - "Why not, Griffith? She'll be useful for our trip to Fortuna."
"Fortuna? Why by Ozma's impotent balls would you want to go there? Place is a shithole!" - Griffith complained, - "Stupid place, religious, cultic fanatics live there. All of them! I don't understand why Mandeline liked to go there all the time."
Jaune took his…. partner's words into consideration. - "Perhaps. But it has been a couple hundred years since you probably saw the outside."
"Felt more like a decade to me. Time Distortion. I fucking hate that feeling. At Least Mandeline got used to it. Me? Nope!" - Griffith said. But when he asked a question, a serious one. Jaune's face went oddly emotionless.
"Jaune, that wound. Do you really have issues with your memory?" - Griffith asked, slowly, seriously. The Bird Familiar was worried for Jaune if it was so... - "Or was it just some ploy to use Miss Kitty?"
"Hm?" - Jaune looked at Griffith curiously, - "A ploy? Well… I won't deny that I used that reason the manipulate her. There is no denying that. But, in regards if I do have memory problems…?" - He stated every word stoically. Perhaps he did? His father stabbed him through the skull after all, he saw some of his own brain on the ground..
Jaune knew memories weren't stored in just one part of the brain. Different types were stored across different, interconnected brain regions. For explicit memories, which were about events that happened to someone, as well as general facts and information (semantic). There were three important areas of the brain: the hippocampus, the neocortex and the amygdala. Implicit memories, for example motor memories relied on the basal ganglia and cerebellum. He also knew that short-term working memory relied most heavily on the prefrontal cortex.
Memories… well that was a difficult part to think about; when one talked about memories they were most likely talking about 'explicit memories'. Which were consciously recalled memories. Explicit memories can be episodic, meaning that they relate to experiences or 'episodes' in your life. Or, they were semantic, relating to facts or general knowledge.
Than, it was just a process of deduction. Luckily enough the Arc Patriarch, Ashton Arc, had only managed to semi-permanently harm the hippocampus, the neo-cortex and the amygdala. Those three parts were responsible for Explicit Memories.
Then, Jaune had simply deduced further which part was the most harmed; He could still process memories and turn short-term memories into long term ones. So the Hippocampus was fine… Besides the fact that he couldn't recognize Blake. But that was fine, Jaune didn't consider her enough of an important person that he had to remember.
Although nobody yet knows which role each neurotransmitter played in memory, it was widely accepted do that communication among neurons via neurotransmitters is critical for developing new memories. So that part was fine.
Honestly, Jaune could go on about how he figured it out. But to summarise it shortly; The cerebellum's job was to process procedural memories; the hippocampus was where new memories were encoded. Strong emotional experiences can trigger the release of neurotransmitters, as well as hormones, which strengthen memories, so that memory for an emotional event is usually stronger than memory for a non-emotional event. The amygdala helped determine what memories to store, and it played a part in determining where the memories are stored based on whether we have a strong or weak emotional response to the event.
So, only a small parts of his hippocampus, neo-cortex and amygdala were harmed. But no matter. Jaune still remembered much of his entire life, he thought. So it didn't matter all that much.
That woman in the 'Memory World', though? The moment Jaune saw her an emotional response was triggered. But still, Jaune couldn't remember her…
No matter. He remembered all that was important. At least he was quite sure he did
He honestly didn't know for sure
"Somewhat," - Jaune answered stoically, - "I remember all that is important. Now, leave me be! I have no desire to speak any further." - Jaune felt uncomfortable giving away this information. Griffith would be most useful on his side.
Jaune viewed Griffith as an item to be used, one that had the unfortunate side-effect of being able to think for itself. Though it would've been a lie if he said that he disliked the bird.
"But why help Blake?" - Griffith questioned curiously.
Jaune replied in a monotone voice, - "To get to Fortuna of course," - The Swordsman clarified, - "I am not going to swim there. It would be too far. And I have no interest in getting swallowed into the Leviathan…"
Leviathan… He had read about it in the library. A titanic whale-like creature that guarded the waters of Fortuna. Swallowing down any ships that came there without remorse.
Like Jaune would leave Mistral, go to another country and then book another ship ride to a place nobody thought existed. That would take months!
But manipulating Blake, getting onto that ship and making it sail towards his own desired destination..
That was his plan…
And if Blake stood in his way? Well, Jaune wouldn't waste his time trying to convince her..
This was the easiest plan to execute for him.
"But the Leviathan? What about that? Not afraid we're gonna get swallowed?" - Griffith questioned, - "Hope you've got a plan for that?"
"I'm not gonna swim under the ocean. Where there are Grimm that I cannot see." - It would be really bothersome and annoying. - "So, I will kill it…"
"But why not steal a boat?" - Griffith asked…
Because he didn't know how to steer a ship nor sail.
"None of your business..." - Jaune told Griffith with an edge in his voice. The Bird Familiar backed off. - "...Griffith, I require you to search and investigate The Faunus Hunters and Roman Torchwick… And one last thing; tell me of any other places of interest..."
"Sure, Jaune. I'll be back soon." - Griffith told Jaune before he flew off.
He watched as Griffith left off, going to fulfill Jaune's orders…
Jaune was still standing there, leaning against the watertower. He had already crafted his plans. Knowing what to do.
.
.
Winter and Noire Arc walked to their General's office. The dull white walls greeted both of them, though they were uncaring of the cold and dull look of their Atlas Base.
"Sooo..Uh, Winter. Have you?..." - Noire fumbled awkwardly, - "So, what're you up to?"
"Nothing that concerns you.." - Winter told the younger girl icily, dismissing her attempts at conversation - "Let us get on with our business…"
(Wow… I was just trying to liven up the place a bit,) - Noire thought, damn her awkwardness! Why was it so hard trying to talk to everyone! The only one that she got kinda along with was...Jaune…
Their footsteps echoed as they saw their General's door. Standing there Noire was about to tell Winter she should enter first.
Only to find her already having done that, pushing her to the side somewhat.
(Rude cunt…) - Noire thought with some animosity. She'd gone out of her way to be nice to the woman. Only to find that icy-behavior and arrogance so astoundingly off-putting. If she didn't fight the girl yet was because she was Ironwood's favorite.
Noire hated favoritism; her father had often done that to her. Choosing her other sisters over her. Though she knew she was part of a family of eight, though her father and mother said seven, dismissing Jaune as a part of the family, time between them all was spread very thin. Her mother and father being a loving parents to her and her sisters though.
Noire dismissed her thoughts, - (When will I make friends though? One is good enough…) - She was feeling very lonely.
Noire straightened up into a disciplined posture,
Mechanical sounds were heard as General Ironwood's mechanical doors opened up. What greeted them was standing up, hands on his desk as he gave both of them serious looks.
"Specialist. Arc. We have some urgent business to talk about" - Ironwood told them seriously, both women standing at attention. - "Approximately a month and a half ago, in Mistral, mass murder had occurred. A monastery and town massacred, no survivors."
Noire hid it, the unsettling feeling. Almost a year of being a specialist and this happens. Neato
Winter still had her icy facade up, though she was inwardly questioning why this mattered, - (It was Mistral, not Atlas. Why does this matter so much?) - She didn't consider it important.
Ironwood than continued, - "Only two people were there, seen leaving by individuals that passed by. An, and I quote, 'Dangerous looking swordsman and an old man wearing old monk's robes.'"
"So, the two of you must be curious why I've decided to tell you this, no?" - Ironwood asked rhetorically - "Because I have reason to believe that one of the two culprits is.. Jaune Arc." - The general had managed to restrain himself when he met the young man again, against his better judgement he left Jaune and his 'sister' Noire alone. Jaune having left and Noire coming back quite saddened.
But Jaune Arc was someone he truly hated. A selfish man that only focused on himself. Working with criminals while deceiving Ozpin and Ironwood. In his opinion Jaune Arc was someone who cared not for the wellbeing of others. Who cared not for the wellbeing of the world.
Jaune Arc disgusted James Ironwood with his selfishness.
Ironwood's eyes looked at the Specialist's with seriousness, noticing Noire's well-hidden shock at that. - "Jaune Arc is a criminal. One who left Beacon under circumstances I don't even know of. He worked together with Arthur Watts, serving as his assistant while in his school years. He stole and killed in Atlas Bases and even more so. And we finally found out where he is. We have proof now."
Finally, after this time. He had proof now. Something that lacked for all that time.
Winter responded with her usual cold demeanor, - "With all due respect sir; has this proof been checked? Along with that, if this 'Jaune Arc' is in Mistral, we cannot do arrest him for his crimes…"
Noire silently agreed, though shocked and unbelieving of those words that were said… - (Jaune wouldn't do that, would he? Sure, he's changed but….)
The General wasn't shocked at all at Winter's response, - "I do have proof. Definitive proof. Perhaps you'd like to see it?"
Pride oozed from his voice, as well as confidence.
Ironwood pressed a button on his desk, a small video clip started.
It displayed the following; A young man that wore a black coat, holding a katana wet and dripping with blood. The Swordsman cleaned the blade Samurai-style. Around him were dead bodies, around seven. The bodies wore security gear.
The rest. The rest was too gruesome to describe. Just the Swordsman and the Old Monk massacring everyone.
Both Noire and Winter displayed no reaction, but their thoughts were the same - ((Who could do this!?))
Than, even with the crappy quality of the video, they saw the expression of the Swordsman. The one who did all that killing.
That murderous Swordsman had a stoic face on the entire time. At least the Monk showed some expression of cruel glee. But the Swordsman? No, no reaction. Even as he killed more than a hundred innocents.
Ironwood noticed their secret expressions of disgust and shock, he focused on the image. He zoomed in on the man right before every camera suddenly shattered, luckily they were able save the contents of it.
James Ironwood then showed a side-by-side of the swordsman and Jaune Arc when he was in Atlas.
"This.. is the proof…" - Ironwood stated, - (Considering he used to work for Arthur Watts, then it wouldn't be all that impossible for him to have a connection to Salem as well.)
Too bad none of them knew Jaune only worked for Arthur out of necessity. But now they have no connection…
"My orders are clear. I want both of you to go to Mistral. Find him and then bring him in.. No matter the cost." - Ironwood ordered them all steadily. His tone left no room for argument, - (It's time to get all my answers…) - He knew Jaune Arc was too strong for just any specialists. Who knows? Maybe he'd show some reluctance towards his sister, that would make him easier to catch
Noire was silent… Her mind doing loops. No.. She had to think this over..
"...I need some time to.. prepare, Sir." - Noire requested, for some strange reason the thought of Jaune doing that caused a tight knot to clench in her stomach.. She missed him. She missed Jaune.
But would he really kill so many people?
It hurt… It hurt her to think of him like that. Unlike most of her family she got along very well with him. Though she ignored the fact, back then at least, that most of her family didn't get along with him. Almost like they hated him for some reason. Differing interests, she thought.
Though that duel that Jaune had with father. Sadly she didn't get to see it. Though considering Jaune's less than capable swordsmanship she thought it was okay.. He probably just lost and left is all.
Sadly enough, though she did not know it yet, the duel was something much more evil and terrifying to Jaune back then. Having been thrown off of a cliff after their duel..
(Look at me now…) - She sighed, - (Jaune. Plea-… I hope you haven't done it all….)
.
.
Jaune grunted as he stood upon the rooftop sheathing Imperium. Having decided to practice some of his old attacks. Deciding to perfect them and create new variations.
Considering Imperium is a Dark-Forged O-Katana, which means it was created through evil means, it possessed a dark energy/power that was imbued into it during its creation, Jaune decided to experiment with it. Though Jaune suspected there might be more to the sword than he thought.
So, Jaune decided to do something fitting with his combat style; His fighting style and techniques are more deliberate and straight to the point than the flashy moves used by many huntsman and huntresses, along with their cheap tricks and dirty tactics.
To specify his fighting style and skill; Jaune was a lethal master swordsman that wielded Imperium with unrivalled speed and skill; his technique was based on Iaijutsu, a style of Mistralian Samurai swordsmanship which involved quick, precise and masterful draws from the sheathe, slicing the opponent, and removing blood from the sword before resheathing. Jaune's Iaijutsu was more powerful due to his natural Grimm powers, developing a personalized style he had not named yet. When Imperium was unsheathed, Jaune often used the sheath as a weapon, using it for blunt strikes or in a combination of attacks. To finish it off he still had his own code of honor. All of this embodied Jaune's discipline and style of combat.
But when he was in his Grimm Form? Everything about him was amplified...
Jaune got into position as he prepared to train once more. He got into the Iaijutsu position, the posture/position involved standing straight with only a light crouch, the tachi-ai.
With a forward dash at incredible speeds Jaune moved at speeds which made him a barely noticeable blur! He launched himself up with spiraling slashes!
Jaune displayed no emotion as he had completed it, the attack was meant for launching himself and his opponent up in the air so he can deal with them there!
Rising Star! That was what he decided to call it!
He landed on his feet. - (Imperium Combo C is coming along nicely…) - He thought. Having decided to practice that move. Not his favorite, but better more than less, after all. Now he could use it in battle.
He ran a hand through his hair, - "It's been some time, when will that Flying Chicken come back?"
Jaune heard a sound, wings flapping to be precise.
"So, I checked around!" - Griffith spoke as he landed himself on the nearby, almost falling apart railing. - "A couple places of interest, there are. A pretty big nightclub owned by some criminals. Couple hundred people are in that nightclub. Roman's doing nothing, just extorting and fucking around with some Multi-colored hair girl. Then there's those Faunus Hunter's. Bunch of wild bastards, that's what they are; I saw them torturing a couple of Faunus part of some 'Revolutionary Group'. Fuckin' laughable. But I know where they're all located."
Jaune said nothing, before he gained a sinister thought… - (Nightclub? Well. I need to test something. What an opportune moment… I still have two days until I have to see Blake after all..)
Griffith flew over to Jaune, making a place for himself on the Swordman's left shoulder.
"The nightclub, I require directions to it…" - Jaune stated in monotone, no emotion from his voice.
"Nightclub? Why go there? Just some random criminals there, nothin' special…" - Griffith questioned curiously.
Jaune spoke stoically - "I desire to try something out… A warning though, Griffith, many people could die. Whether innocent or guilty.." - He finished his warning.
"Eh, I don't care much for these people. So let's try it out!" - Griffith told him.
Jaune knew what he was about to do would be considered monstrous by many. But he was still going to do it, why?
Because he found it necessary to obtain knowledge that would lead to further power.. He was superior to those that had a human heart that made them feel.
Heh, power. That word again…
Jaune vowed that he would throw away his human heart for more power, his human heart always held him back. To feel those emotions of inferiority and weakness again, that he could not accept. No matter what. Jaune firmly believed that his weakness was connected to his human heart.
But, Jaune no longer had an inferiority complex, he had done away with that. Inferiority was the driving force behind many humans and faunus. Whether either of the species accepted this was up to the individual part of any of those species. People were motivated by inferiority that developed early on in their lives.
Feelings of inferiority can stem from many things. Physical inferiority, like not being born as strong as others… or emotional inferiority… Like not feeling loved..
Inferiority influences everyone's actions. No matter what they say. As people grow older, and are forced to leave these feelings unchecked. Or having those feelings of inferiority fostered by the actions of others.
There are many reasons for feelings of inferiority, like a lack of empathy from parents. Hatred from parental figures or physical and emotional abuse..
People who grow up abused and weak, for example, can grow up to be the most power hungry people of society. Or they can make sure no one else feels weak again.. To better the world, even.
Jaune was not striving for the betterment of the world.
Let them die for all he cared..
Everything in his mind added up. Jaune now strived for personal superiority, power. Jaune became obsessed with power. Why? to never feel weak again. To make something in his life important… So he would never feel the humiliation and emotionel of another beating from his parents. To never suffer again.
To Jaune, the human heart was a weakness. The human heart was the cause of all that trauma and pain he feels.
The child, skinny and weak looking, stood in the woods of his home. A blonde young girl right in front of him, same age as Jaune, if a little older. Both wielded their wooden swords. Jaune's hands shook from nervousness. His Father and Mother had forbid him from training, not wanting him around any of his sister's. He hoped they wouldn't be mad again… They always got mad at him..
"Are you ready, Jaune?"
Both children stood there, wooden swords at the ready!
"En Garde!"
KLAK!
The immediately landed in a blade lock, Jaune poorly holding his sword. But somehow managing to hold out.
"Since it's your special day, maybe I'll let you win!" - The young blonde girl told her brother with a teasing smile.
"Like I need any help!" - Jaune retorted, voice nervous.
"Hehehe!" - The blonde girl laughed cheerfully. Easily she overpowered Jaune!
The little boy landed on the ground, mud on his pants and clothes.
"Sorry, little brother. Maybe someday you'll be strong enough to gain Mom and Dad's notice." - The sister said almost mockingly. Children were cruel like that.
Jaune didn't like those words. They hurt more then he'd like to admit.
His family always picked on him. Always hurting him. Beating him up. Always saying he was a weakling…
Jaune stared at the extended hand of his sister. He stood up and quickly pushed her arm away, not intending to hurt her!
THUD!
She landed against a nearby tree, expensive and fine clothes tearing as her blood smirched against the tree!
Shocked and remorseful, he immediately went over to her, about to desperately apologize!
"You little brat!" - A furious voice growled at him, oh no… his mother is here… Jaune quivered in fear and shock because of her, - "What did you do?! Again you hurt someone!"
She harshly grabbed him, the child had tears in his eyes from fear..
His mother looked at him. His child like body frail and weak as she raised her hands again - "Me and your father had to suffer 'cause of you! I won't let you hurt your sister too!"
SMACK! SMACK! SMACK!
Nose leaking blood, eyes watering.
Terror. Helplessness.
He remembered it, his father's broadsword slicing into his stomach…
.
Blood leaked from him like a faucet leaking water. Laying on the ground he felt it again… that terrifying feeling… Being forced under his Father's boot again..
The only words he could fearfully mutter to himself?
With tears leaking from his eyes..
"I...I don't want to die…"
.
The fear for his life...
He thought he had the companionship to leave him be thanks to Beacon… What a lie…
Jaune was left alone again… Abandoned and thrown away…
He was powerless to stop himself from being hurt back then… Jaune was left alone without anyone to guide him..
It was because of his human heart, those emotions that he felt back then were all it's fault… So he had to get rid of the human heart he possessed…
.
.
Owned by some criminals, it was a large nightclub that accommodated massive scores of boisterous people, including some Faunus Hunters, though the Faunus Hunters spended most of their free time in a whore-house. Jaune also noticed that the place was there for debauchery. Many of the employees are females dressed in revealing lingerie, complete with their own 'sexy' costumes, and there were many locations in the club with women dancing on poles. A bouncer at the door prevented access to those who aren't on a particular guest list.
Jaune and Griffith easily went past him.
Featured prominently is its dance floor of glowing tiles, with couches and tables for patrons to sit at. A tower of speakers in either corner of the main stage blast out techno-music accompanied by flashing lights. A balcony above the main stage is where the people in charge can be seen most often, overseeing the affairs of the club's crowd.
Jaune leaned against a wall in a corner, his appearance not gaining much attention. Good. - "Griffith," - Jaune said to his bird ally - "Lock the doors, all of them…"
"Okay, Swordboy!" - Griffith teased Jaune, he then flew away.
"I think Griffith can lock some doors, at least…." - Jaune murmured - "Nonetheless, I should get started.."
Jaune casually walked to a random location in the back, - "It should work…"
.
.
It was quite some time since Jaune and Griffith had entered, but the party was just getting started, it was just around 2 am, after all.
Hundreds of people were in the nightclub, partying and drinking. Mostly teens or young adults. Some were just people in a midlife crisis, spending all of their money on liquor and women.
Music was playing loudly, people were making out or just messing about.
Until the music suddenly stopped..
"Hey! Why the music go out?!" Some random teenagers questioned with a scream, others just gave off annoyed grunts. Upset at having their fun put at a halt.
The DJ gave an apology, stating 'We'll fix everything!'
Flap! Flap!
The sounds of wings flapping caught everyone off guard. Attention was gathered to it immediately
"Sorry to put the show on halt, kiddos." - A...A bird spoke?! -"Bet all of you are our new guinea pigs!"
"What the Dust is going on?!" Some people muttered.
CREEEEK! CRAAAK! BAAAM!
The Bird flew to an armed man's shoulder, the man was stoic-faced while looking sinister - "So it did work… Interesting…"
The Swordsman felt his power growing already..
"So! It was you who cut it off!" - Some random fool stomped over to him, - "Fix the shit right no-!"
Slash!
He was cut off, quite literally. No one saw the Swordsman unsheath his weapon. Shocked, some of the guards pulled out their pistols. Only to get killed as well! One slice, eight dead.
"What poor reception." - Jaune muttered in monotone, - "Now, don't struggle…"
Some people looked out the window, only to notice the entire outside had changed! Like they weren't even in Mistral.
An endless lake of blood, with massive statues of Grimm, supposedly the True Grimm, sunken in it. Abysses, which are made from blood, can move freely in it. Though the Abysses couldn't get into the building for some reason! All of this had replaced the outside!
One girl muttered fearfully, - "W-Where are we?" - Tears pooled out of her eyes. She was deadly afraid
At this point everyone thought Jaune was responsible, Griffith then proceeded to throw a quip as he noticed Jaune's experiment - "Sorry everyone," - Was said sarcastically - "But welcome to Grimm Express! If you look on the outside you can see the beautiful look of Netherworld!"
"People. If you are religious, pray to your deity. If you have a god to question, do it now. I do not hold any grudges nor hatred against you. Now, be prepared to die" - Jaune spoke to them in a calm, almost casual voice.
(So, I can open gateways to the Grimm World. But the only downside is that it is an incredibly weak link.) - Jaune thought to himself. - (The library was very useful after all…)
There was something completely terrifying about the Swordsman and his stoic and dark demeanor.
The cowardly and weak ones hid behind those they thought could protect them. Faunus Hunters, Criminals and the other ones with guts surrounded him.
The tension was thick, each breath of the dangerous swordsman jabbed them all like a blade. - "Griffith, kill the weak ones… I'll deal with the stronger ones"
"...En Garde.." - Jaune held out his sword vertically, partially unsheathing it with a flick of his thumb.
Jaune vanished!
Slash!
He reappeared behind all of them. Re-Sheathing his sword behind his back.
And Jaune did this all without any actual effort…
They all dropped dead, heads cut off and their limbs cut off. Their guts and entrails easily seen. Blood splatter across the ground, coating it like paint. fifty dead with one visible slash.
"Yes…" - Jaune murmured sinisterly, satisfied at this now confirmed knowledge - "I know it for sure now."
"Aren't you being a little overconfident, kiddo?" - A female voice said. The familiar white cloud and tanto were there again. Along with that porcelain mask with black camo paint.
That same white cloaked assassin from Atlas was here again, why? He wondered.
"You again.." - Jaune stated monotonously, displaying no reaction.
"Yeah. Me again. Told you I had plans, but you?..." - Her voice was almost warm and motherly, underlined with cruelty and sadistic enjoyment as she looked at the corpses, both guilty and innocent, around her. It reminded Jaune of his birth mother, though he was unbothered by the resemblance now. - "Naughty boy… Making this place a nexus for the Grimm World, why?"
"..." - The Grimm-Hybrid's face was stoic and unreadable. Yet confident and completely self-assured about what was about to happen. And who would prove victorious.
"Nonetheless. I can't let that happen. Not now…" - She murmured, before turning her face to Jaune's stoic one, - "Now what did you just say again? En Garde?"
All of a sudden Griffith flew back to Jaune, - "I killed some of them, other ones were like hogs, I tell you! Always running away!"
"Need your birdy to help you fight, Jauney?" - The Assassin questioned all too cheerily, - "You too much of a baby? Daddy didn't teach you how to use a sword all that well? Aww, or did brainstabbing make you all the more stupid?"
"Is that the best you can come up with? Do something about that poor vocabulary of yours." - Jaune was completely and utterly unbothered by her statements.
Jaune stood in his own personalized stance, while the Assassin took her own. Griffith was there, closeby and ready to help if Jaune wanted some help.
"Griffith...I require you to do something else for now...Kill anyone who's trying to escape. And keep the Abyss Grimm out of here." - Jaune ordered Griffith.
.
.
The tension between the descendant of Salem and the cloaked assassin was palpable.
The assassin smirked underneath her mask, - (He's gotten stronger since Atlas.)
Jaune displayed no reaction.. No emotion..
The battle erupted without warning!
The tanto clashed with Jaune's sharp katana! Slashing and cutting at each other! Yet not landing hits on one another yet! It was clear they were just testing the waters.
Both had light weapons, Jaune had his katana and also Beowulf stored away, ready for summoning. And the Assassin had her tanto, a light weapon as well.
Their blades became so fast they became, no, not even a blur. No one could track that speed.
Both easily dodged one another's weapons! Jaune simple maneuvered his body slightly, while the assassin did flamboyant and show-offy.
The Assassin spotted an opening and lunged!
"You swing too slow.."
Jaune remarked casually, but allowing no emotion to seep from his voice as he countered with a casual attack. One that was faster than the world's fastest car.
The Assassin quickly dodged in an elegant manner befitting of a show-off, - "Thought I wouldn't learn?" - She countered with a flurry of slashes from her tanto!
Jaune easily parried and deflected them. - "Too slow." - Was the cold remark as he Tricked out of sight. Ten times faster than he could before.
Jaune reappeared at the woman's left side! He dashed forward, the speed was immeasurably fast!
The Swordsman was now in front of her! Launching both of them up with his Rising Sun!
"You wretch!" - Jaune sneered, annoyance finally showing.
"Ugh!" She grunted, before recovering and then meeting hundreds of vicious cuts! Imperium Combo C!
Both went back into their exchange! Jaune resheathed his weapon and simply lunged at her!
Slash! Cut! Slash! Clang!
Jaune beat the Assassin at the draw! Both figuratively and literally! He was going hell for leather to kill her! And in two shakes of a lamb's tail he managed to land another series of cuts - "You're as slow as molasses!" - He insulted her!
"Hehe, boy! I know you're very quick. That counts in bed too?" - The Assassin teased!
Jaune felt that the nexus to the Grimm World was getting stronger, good.
"What's on your mind, Jauney?"
"Just thinking about your defeated carcass. I won't let you live, assassin…"
"Eh? Why the hatred for assassins?"
They had a back and forth going for a bit. Jaune smirked, eyes lazed with coldness as he lunged at her again. Quickly overpowering her with his, now, sheathed katana.
"Like that blade of yours, mine is forged with materials from the Grimm World as well.."
"Interesting…"
The assassin pulled off a maneuver that she had pulled in Atlas
"I've seen that before, useless!"
Jaune kicked her with inhuman force, strengthened through unknown means.
"What happened?" - She questioned, ribs broken but Aura healing it at an unnatural pace - "You're physical strength isn't supposed to be that strong!"
"Hehehe…" - Jaune chuckled ominously, - "You don't understand, do you? Besides, what do you even want? Didn't your boss tell you anything?"
The assassin gave no confirmation nor did she deny.
"Here...I'll show you..
My Grimm-Form…"
In less than a nanosecond Jaune had transformed. A scaly, grey Grimm now stood there, resembling something very reptilian and piranha like; his coat had transformed into a coat of pronounced scales that was made up from two layers; the coat and waistcoat. The coat had three separated coat tails that had subtle white veins. Rather than have his ribs exposed, Jaune had his chest covered by scales that resembled his waistcoat, though there were some ribs that can be seen. Imperium's sheath was fused to his wrist, it resembled the sheath of a kriss, a traditional dagger. As for the outer coat, it's made up of two pairs rather than just one. You could also see of Jaune's snake pattern transition into his Grimm Form on his right shoulder. When it came to his head, it resembled that of a pyranha's. With the mouth consisting of sharp teeth that also resembled that of a pyranha. His cheeks were also covered by the coat, giving more protection for his face. As for the horns that were pointed upwards, they resemble the helmet of a samurai. Though the horns weren't all that pointy or sharp.
All in all; just seeing it made people want to just jump out of their skin and run away. The power and intimidation factors were off the charts!
Jaune's razor-sharp, piranha like teeth, cracked a wicked smirk.
"We're in your world now, right?"
"̢̾Y͇̑ě͙s̳̆.̪̂..Ţ̀h̺͂é̠ ̯̕G͍̈́r̝̄im̢̒m̺̿ Wò̺r̘̀l̟̃d̩̓ ͈͒ị́ŝ̰ ̬̿t͖̋a̯͠k͌͢in͉̏g̭̏ o͍͑v̜͒ẹ͆ř͢ ͕͒t̠̀he ͕̎e̝̋ǹ͉t̘̃i̖͛ř͕e̻͂ ̢̒plã̞c̱͘e̢̍.̳̓ ͍̑But͖͞ ̮͋t̩̆h̦̾i̳͂s plac̟͆e ̬̂ĭ̠s ̢͞a ̪͝c̩̃anc̙͞e͉̍r̘̓oṷ͊s̤͠ b͖̌lî͖g̦̈h͙̓t͉̐ ̲͊f̰͆o̪͘r̹̒ ̳͞ŷ̬o̼͌ur̠̒ ̺̿k̡͐i͖͋nd. ͍̍Ą͒f̜͒t̹̋é̥r ͇̄alĺ͎,̪͑ ẙ̺o͓͝u̙͆ ̼̕fee͙̽l̥̐ ̥́t̢̑hȃ̙t͙́ st͌͢in̬̚gi͗͜ng ͖̊iṇ̃ ̦͡ŷ͎ou͙̎r̦̎ ͎͗st͚̓oma̞͘c̘͝h̢͌."͔͡ - His voice was distorted and low, the semitones lower than what should be possible. - ""̞̍B̧̍ẻ͉c͘͢a̱͒u̻̕ş̚ẽ͕ ͈̇Ĭ̙'̭͊m̆͟ ͙̄h̬̀ạ̋l̹͡f̝̊ ̫̚Ǵ͟r̫̄i̦͆m̪̾m̨̀,̨̉ ̟̇I͍͝ ̖̇c̹̔ä̱ṉ̌ ̺́a͑ͅc̍͢c̩̉ḙ͠s̜̈ ͍̔ṯ͑ḧ͈́ȩ̛ ̡͐p̘͋o̳͑w͓̍e̓͜r̮͝ ̳͛o̬̍f̡̈́ ̣̉t͈̃h͂͢é̟ ̎͟Ǵ̱ŕ͜i̫͂m̒ͅm̭̆ ̱͂W̙͞ò̫r̲̅l̻̀ḋ̫.̨̄"̝̚" - His voice was as stoic as it was prideful. Laced with cruelty as well as dark glee - ͓̍"But͉̓ ̝͂th͖̕e ̣͘T́͢r̜͑ụ̇e̡͑ ͙͡G̻͋rim̙͆m a̓͜r̹͘ẽ̟ w̡͠e̮͂ak̤̿ené͕d̳̃ ̤͑whe͙͗n ͚̀t͍́hȅ̹y ̫͞s͈̈́t̜̑ŗ͑a͇̚y ̼̐away ͉͑f͚̈́r̳̈o̰̽m̭͌ it. B̡̓ut si̳͐n̛͚ce͇̋ I'̻͝m ̖͛h̭̔a͓̽ḻ͛f hu͎̍m̝͗an̻͡, not fully Grimm, I o͔͋nly ̰́get str͇̔ḛ̄n͉̆g̯͂theǹ͢ed by ̼͞th̰̐e Grȉ̩m̯͆m̖̿ ̬̆W̌ͅorľ̢d.̊͢ ͂͜Ń̤ot̩̀ ̨̀weakene͖̾d̰͗."
Jaune disappeared!
"Shit." - She muttered, Jaune was so fast she literally saw nothing!
BAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAMMMMMMMMMM!
Jaune had appeared above her, tip of the blade pointed downwards! The moment he stuck it into the ground!
STJLING!
Solar Flare!
Grey energy erupted like a volcano! Hundreds of slashes appearing all around them! Cutting every bit of the location!
Jaune disappeared again! Once more over her head, his katana glowing grey!
He slashed downward with a devastating overhead strike!
HelmSplitter!
He disappeared again! Jaune attacked with speed close to Mach 1 even!
Rapid Slash!
Grey energy came from the hundreds of slashes!
Rapid Slash! Rapid Slash! Rapid Slash! Rapid Slash! Rapid Slash! Rapid Slash!
Jaune smirked cruelly as he suddenly stopped!
The stench of guts from the people around them was sickening….
"I can see through your method, Jauney!"
Phah!
Jaune's mind started turning rabid! Like that of an animal's
"̴T̷h̶i̷s̷ ̷i̴s̵ ̵t̸h̴e̴ ̶p̶o̷w̵e̶r̵ ̴o̶f̵ ̶a̸ ̷d̶e̸s̶c̶e̵n̶d̸a̷n̵t̷ ̸o̷f̸ ̴S̸a̷l̸e̸m̴.̶ ̴M̸y̶ ̶p̷o̸w̸e̶r̷!̶"̴
"Really? Are you so willing to throw away your humanity like that? You know that the longer you use that for, the more it'll devour your humanity..."
Jaune appeared right in front of the Assassin! She never saw him coming! He held out his clawed hand!
Bam!
With a devastating palm strike Jaune launched the woman onto the balcony! The force caused her ribs to shatter!
"Blargh!" - Blood leaked from under her mask!
Jaune was now right in front of her weak, pathetic and heaving form. In his opinion, to be honest. Now, time to see what's under her mask!
Dull blue, Grimm eyes watched with dark anticipation as the hand was removing the mask. He saw a shine of black hair, with a tint of red. A face paler than most women, middle-aged if he assumed correctly, evidenced by the age lines.
And a pair of… Eyes just like-
She spat blood, eyes full of hatred as her every being indicated the promise of revenge…
Jaune saw the eyes glow a bit, before then..
A BRIGHT FLASH OF LIGHT HIT HIM!
BLAAAAAAAAAASSSST!
"G̮ͤ̏ͬṞ̪͖͉G͕̼̪H͊͐!" - Jaune recoiled, a sudden stinging sensation catching him of guard.. - (What was that? )
The woman evaporated like a drop of water against a raging fire.
She was gone… She just wasn't there anymore, - "Everyone's dead. We killed them. Now, how do we go back? Killing all those Grimm is a bitch, including those kiddos."
Jaune looked at the place where the woman had vanished into thin air, most likely a teleportation semblance. Or something else, perhaps? But she was gone…
The wench had escaped him! That coward had fled! - "S̾ͅh̳̺͖͐̃̚e ̮̌w̡̧̠̻̽́̀͘í̳̥̫̐͌l̹̐̕͢l̬̔ ͕̘̓̒p̘͆a̤̋y ͔͂f͓̼̔͂ỡ̳͍r ẗ͇͖͘ḧ̰́a͖͠t.̨͍̭̼͑̆̐̈́.̱̎̚͜.̘̀̍͟ ͔̟̀͛̾ͅs͌ͅọ̹̓͟͡͝o̬̭͖̾̍̑n͔͈̫̎͒͝er̢̡̛̦̅͘͜͝ ̡͕̖̹̍͗̇͋ó̲̘́͢͠r ̺̲͒̄ḻ̰͉͌̄͆̈͜ạ͖̑̌ţ̧̢͑̾͡ë͇͈̣̠́̍̀͝ṙ̪…"
Cowards.. All of them.. Fleeing from battle..
The humanoid Grimm looked at Griffith, looking like a calm, yet rabid animal. In a nanosecond Jaune had reverted back to his Human Self.
Jaune took a small breath, - "Hm, I know for sure now.." - He murmured, then he gestured to Griffith; the bird then flew to Jaune, perching himself on his left shoulder, - "Let's go."
He looked at the surrounding are, time to remove the nexus. He did not desire a gateway to the Grimm World for ever, after all.
.
.
Jaune sat with Griffith, the Swordsman had closed down the nexus; the library was very useful for it's knowledge after all, - (Just a shame it was a pathetically weak link.)
Both the bird and Swordsman looked down, both being on a building - "So, Faunus Hunters are going crazy. But about the 'experiment', did you think it went well."
"It was adequate, though somewhat disappointing that that cowardly woman left."
"How many people did you think we kill."
"Together? Around three hundred, civilians and those with fighting capabilities."
"What do you wanna do now?"
"Let's head back to Belladonna's residence, I doubt she would mind."
The bird nodded from Jaune's shoulder, both disappearing a nanosecond later.
.
.
It was raining now; the street they were on was a shortcut to Blake's residence, nearby was a pub named "Crims and Pub". It was connected with two other streets, but they all got blocked up by rubble. The street was, strangely enough, bordering on being destroyed with trash on the ground, almost every wall is sprayed in graffiti and there are chunks of rubble over the place. There were a lot of flat rooftops, which served as a great way of striking from the sky.
As both Jaune and Griffith went to Blake's place of residence, the bird had begun to start a conversation, - "How are you doing?"
"Adequate."
Griffith chuckled, - "You sure? I mean, in your sleep you had a nightmare, a pretty bad one at that, and we just killed a couple hundred people. You sure you okay?"
Jaune was as stoic as ever, - "Hm? Why wouldn't I be?" - He sounded calm, while the voice was he said it in was monotone.
"Well, most kids freak out, puke or somethin' like that when they kill. But you? You showed no reaction."
Jaune understood, so he explained stoically - "So what if I kill them now? They will all die, no matter what. If not today then another day. If they wanted to live they should not have been so powerless. Perhaps then they would be able to stop me."
Entering the alleyway behind Blake's place, they both entered her residence.
Both noticed the eerie silence.
"Hm, Jaune, what are you doing here so late? I thought we were gonna meet tomorrow?"
The Cat Faunus was dressed in the attire Jaune saw her last; though with black bags under her eyes.
Jaune's face displayed nothing as he was about to respond.
.
.
"Sit still, Taurus, I can't help you if you don't stay seated." - A cheeky voice stated.
The bull Faunus sneered - "Then hurry it up!" - Hatred oozed from his voice
Garus was a short, pale-skinned bordering on grey, man of unknown age. His eyes were orange, and he had a light-black goatee. His equally black hair was more of a mop. He wore a lab coat/suit with a neat front and sleeves, with the ruffles uniquely styled as two intersecting swords. He wore white gloves with rings on them, and sneakers.
Adam Taurus sat in his chair, left arm missing, now nothing more than a stump. Scowl on his face as he wore an armored version of his usual attired. Nothing much, just padded here and there.
Taurus scowled and brooded, something that was usual if you knew him for more than a second.
Both Garus and Taurus were in a room that resembled that of a hospital's. Though a bit more old fashioned in style. The floor, walls and ceiling were incredibly grey and clean. All of the equipment sterile too.
Some surgical equipment was neatly at Garus' side. Laying within arms reach.
Adam grunted as Garus cleaned the stump from its last bit of filth.
"So, Buddy, how long did it take for you to get here?" - Garus asked, curious as to know the answer - "It's been a couple of months. Did fighting with one arm not work out for you all that much?"
Adam snarled animalistically - "Do not mock me!"
Garus raised an eyebrow - "Okayyy. But in all seriousness. Do you wanna stay here in an awkward silence or actually talk?"
"..."
"The robot arm was a shitty choice, to be honest, though I can. Should've just come to us, we've already struck a deal; helping you out again isn't somethin' horrible."
"Tch!" - The Bull Faunus scoffed - "Get on with it already! I don't have all week!"
"Did you get it?" - His voice was suddenly serious, deadly serious - "The artifacts? I need them.."
"Some," - Adam reluctantly admitted, hating the fact that that blonde swordsman stopped him - "But not all."
"... Fine…" - The manner in which it was said conveyed the animosity that was suddenly there - "Better talk to Azul about this. Or perhaps someone else. I don't think that his sacred being will take well to you failing." - He shrugged - "Maybe the deal would be off?"
No. Adam Taurus would not allow that to happen. Everything this Religious Military Organization had were vital in his plans. He'd use these Humans and than dispose of them. But for now… He'd have to play his cards correctly
Too bad not everything would plan out as he envisioned within his mind
Taurus was immediately alarmed as a old man suddenly entered the room, carrying himself with a grace and kindness one would find in a priest; Azul was an elderly man in his fifties that wore warriors robes. However, his body was somewhat fit and lean; looking more like that of a thief's than anything else.
"Hello, Adam" - The old man's' voice was calm and polite, Adam had never been more alarmed than before - "I already know of the fact that you failed….
Taurus. You remember our deal...right?"
The man's voice carried a dangerous edge, incredibly dangerous edge
The White Fang lieutenant scowled - "Yes," - Adam growled out - "I do."
"Hmm, and you failed.. why?" - Garus asked mockingly - "Really! Tell them that a edgy swordsman kicked your ass. Took your arm. Than you almost got the rest of the things we needed stolen by the Invincible Girl and her BFF group!"
That taunting little shit!
"Is that so?" - The question was calm
"It won't happen again!" - Adam vowed with hatred! - "I'll get those damned things!"
"... I see, so that best be done, soon. Otherwise the 'Ascension Ceremony' will not become available for you, nor your brethren." - Those words were said casually, but with a serious undertone
The Ascension Ceremony…
Adam gritted his teeth, - "I will get the rest that's required.."
"Hmm, see to it, Taurus." - Was calmly ordered of him
This, it felt like he was under the thumb of that whore Cinder again!
But that man, Jaune, the name made him insane, hatred flowing through his very being!
Humans; The species Adam Taurus hated so damn much almost compared to the hatred he had for that man. Fighting that swordsman had made him so weak… but to cut off his arm… Adam hated him for that but, why? Why did his hands shake, his legs quiver at the thought of that cold and stoic face. That man had pummeled Adam into so much humiliation and shame…
That cold face was so reminiscent of that time
The brand came closer and closer to his eye, he quivered in fear.
No… No! Please! Stop!
His hands shook, - (Damn him! Damn him!)
He wanted revenge, desperately. He wanted to kill Jaune for making him feel so weak. So inferior!
That man had killed his men and cut off his arm. As if Adam was nothing but a toddler to him. As if he was Nothing compared to Jaune.
He refused to ever feel so inferior ever again...
"Now, Taurus, I must take my leave. Rest assured, the next time you do not keep up your end of the deal…" - It was left in the air, but Adam understood the threat.
Azul left the room, - (It's good to know that the Faunus knows he cannot stand up against us... Against the Order of The Sword.)
The Order of The Sword had thousands of members in Fortuna, quite a lot, while also managing to stay hidden, while the White Fang only had hundreds. And as a plus The Order had an substantial research division. The research division developed anti-Grimm weapons. But also explored magic field, a field that only their current Ruler can use along with her Rival. Magic is a field that only three known people, to the Order at least, can use. They use this knowledge to create a great many things, among many other uses. As can be expected from the name, the Order's weapon of choice are swords. Weird, right? There were quite a lot of swords designed by Garus, the Order's very own head doctor and scientist that was keeping the position until Arthur would return.
Azul went through the building, the location he was heading to was secret. He came outside and went to a small bridge. The bridge extended from the building out over the ocean to a suspended platform held upwards by unknown means.
[Azul, there you are….]
Upon hearing the voice Azul immediately took a knee - "Mistress," - His voice was worshipful - "Adam Taurus had failed in his task, he failed to take the necessary items from the train.."
She appeared as three glowing crimson orbs/eyes filled with power. The True Leader of the Order appeared to them in her avatar
[Disappointing… And how will you make sure we get the items? Everything must have arrived at Ozma's group]
"I will make sure that everything will arrive in our hands, rest assured." - Azul vowed, his voice was confident and resolute
[I see..] - Her voice left off - [But besides that, I have another task for you. There is a young woman in Mistral that has gained my notice. You must retrieve her and bring her to me..]
"Do you know what she might look like?"
[She has dark, bronze-ish gold like blond hair, most likely braided. Fair, yet tan skin. Dark, olive green eyes. Carrying a classic 'princess' like beauty you could find in fairy tales. She wears a dark orange dress with a corset over it, the corset's decorated with moss green ribbons. Her sleeves go down to her elbows, ending just above them. She also had brown, knee length boots on. She has several bracelets on as well.]
"It will be done…"
She cracked a small smile in her throne room, her avatar having done it's work…
As if she would actually keep that small group she made as her first choice, phah! Cinder failed and ran away! Hazel lost along with Tyrian! And Arthur was busy in Vale so he couldn't get back any time soon.
The idea to create this order came from her, so it didn't matter what she would do with it, right?
But, nonetheless, she knew her plans shall come to fruition.. her true plans
Her eyes narrowed as she felt that presence for less than a nanosecond.. One so similar to hers. Though incredibly far away.. It had only gotten stronger than the last time she felt it...
Nonetheless - "Soon," - She murmured - "Soon Ozma shall die… I will have my daughter back...The True Grimm shall return."
And Salem shall rule…
.
AN:
There was a lot more I wanted to write, but it wouldn't have fit in the chapter. Besides, The Edge was strong with Jaune.. Sheesh, I should've written less edge. But I dunno any other way it could've played out on my end
Whadda ya think about the new Glitchy/Grimm text hate it? Love it? Should I make it like this again? Lemme know?
I semi-like Biology. So I went to some sites and researched the brain a bit. So you might just see some crap you once got in school. A lot of text crap was in this. Not my proudest chapter, but I think it's decent enough. Hopefully it's not boring.
Jaune's a ruthless bastard, selfish but with reasons. Stoic and uncaring to the point of being ruthless...
If you wanna see some DMC Psychology check out Champion Analysis' videos about Vergil, Dante and Nero Psychology. Trust me, the guy is good.
Sorry for the lack of action lately. Just haven't been feeling it.
The Arc's hate Jaune for a reason. But that won't be revealed yet
One last thing. Mandeline and Ruby will be back next chapter. And some time soon there should be a Ruby interlude. Showing how Jaune lost the amulet from Ruby's perspective during their Beacon Days. And later on how Jaune was betrayed and how NPR really were to him.
The backstory and interludes for the characters will be revealed when I think it's relevant to be revealed.
As always, PM me if you've got any questions