#verte arc

[darksaiyangoku]

Fateverse Remnant/Arc Kingdom

Prologue

Fateverse Remnant - 202 Age of Kings - Kingdom of Rosaria

It was a quiet night in the Kingdom of Rosaria and a young boy with blonde hair was playing with a wooden sword in the forest. He was Jaune Arc of the House of Arc.

Jaune: Hiya!!! Ha! Take that! Agh! You will never defeat me!! Wah!

He swung his sword and whacked it against the tree trunk several times. He gripped his weapon tight and started to increase the speed. Pieces of bark started flying off the tree until with one haed thwack, the sword had broken. Suddenly, a large hand grabbed Jaune by the shoulder and he jumped in fright.

Jaune: Gaaaaah!!! *turns around* F-Father?

Jaune's father was Leon Arc. He resembled him many ways, though he had light green eyes compared to Jaune's dark blue. He wore a golden yellow tunic, with two white pauldrons on his shoulders and a blue cape dangling from his shoulder. Sheathed to his waist was an elaborate sword with a blue gemstone embedded in the pommel and a ring shaped crossguard.

Leon: *chuckles* I was wondering where you had run off to. Come inside, the King and Queen of Rosaria are about to enter.

Jaune: But you said that I had to practice my sword skills. It's the only way I can truly be a knight!

Leon: There are many ways to be a knight, my son. Also, I didn't say to practice every day *chuckles* Come on, let's get you inside.

Jaune: Aww, okay father.

[Rosaria Castle Hall]

Jaune stood awkwardly with his father, mother and three sisters; Rouge, Saphron and Verte. For what seemed like forever, there wasn't any sign of the Royal Family.

Jaune: Where are they?

Rouge: Just be patient. They'll be here shortly. Oh look!

Descending from the staircase was the Herald. In her hand, she held a roll of parchment.

Herald: *unrolls parchment* Presenting the Royal Majesties; King Taiyang XIao Long and Queen Summer Xiao Long. Presenting the Royal Highnesses, Princess Yang Xiao Long and Princess Ruby Xiao Long.

The room erupted with applause at the sight of the Royal Family as they walked down the stairs, waving and smiling. Jaune's eyes were wide as he saw the two sisters. They were beautiful. His cheeks flushed red, causing Verte to tease him. As Ruby and Yang continued walking, the younger princess accidentally stepped on her sister's dress, causing the two of them to trip. Without think, Jaune raced over towards the staircase and caught the two of them just in the nick of time. They both blinked at him and he blinked back.

Jaune: Uh... hello, Your Highnesses.

Ruby/Yang: H-Hello.

Taiyang: *ahem*

Jaune: Oh! Uh, I am so sorry! Your Majesty, I saw the Princesses fall and I-

Taiyang: *chuckles* It's quite alright, young man. I thank you.

Summer: It seems like we have a little hero. What's your name?

Jaune: M-My name is Jaune of House Arc. Youngest son and first son of the Arc Family, Your Majesty *bows*

Taiyang: Well it's nice to meet you, young Jaune. Thank you very much for saving our daughters. You have our family's gratitude.

Jaune: *chuckles and blushes* Y-You're welcome, Your Majesty.

Summer: Alright. Now, let us carry on with the party.

Once again, the hall erupted with applause. The party was in full swing, with the bards playing the Song of the Roses and everyone dancing. All except Jaune, Yang and Ruby, who snuck out to the family's courtyard. The three of them looked at the sky and gazed at fhe shattered moon.

Jaune: Wow... it looks so beautiful.

Ruby: I heard that a dragon broke it when he flew into the sky.

Yang: You read too many fairytales, Ruby. That didn't happen.

Ruby: Yes it did! *pouts*

Jaune: *giggles and looks up at moon*

Yang: What is it, Jaune?

Jaune: Say Ruby, Yang, do you ever have dreams of what you want to be when you're older?

Yang: All the time. I want to be the best fighter ever! *boxing stance*

Ruby: I wanr to be a hero! Save people from bad guys! Just like the ones in the fairytales!

Jaune: I want to be a knight just like my father. Fighting bad guys and saving princesses!

Yang: Well you already saved me and Ruby, so you're almost there. *giggles*

Jaune: *giggles back* I'd love to be a knight at your dad's Royal Court. It's the only one that hasn't been taken over by Vortigern. Eugh!

Yang: I'd love to give him a left hook right in the face! Pow!

Ruby: Alright then, I say we make a pact! On this night, we all vow to achieve our dreams! Jaune, Yang, place your hands in the middle!

The three children placed their hands in the middle and spoke their pact.

Yang: I, Princess Yang, promise to be the greatest fighter on Remnant.

Jaune: I, Jaune, promise to be an honourable knight in the Kingdom of Rosaria.

Ruby: I. Princess Ruby, promise to be a legendary hero and protect the people of Remnant.

Yang: *smirks* I now pronounce you two husband and wife!

Jaune: Wha? *blushes*

Ruby: *blushes* Yang! Stop it!

Yang: *laughing while running inside*

Ruby: Get back here! *chases Yang* Mommy, Yang's bullying me!

Jaune laughed very hard. The princesses were a fun pair. He looked back at the moon and reached for it with his hand. Someday, he would honour his family's legacy. .

Fateverse Remnant - 216 Age of Kings - Kingdom of Vale

Jaune coughed a trail of blood as his chest was pierced by large, silver lance. In his hand was a silver and red sword, stabbing another knight in the chest. This knight had blue hair, crimson red eyes and wore silver armour. He was Arthur Azure, the King of Vale. The two of them slowly looked at each other. Tears fell from their face as they both realised what they had done.

Jaune/Arthur: I'm... sorry...

With their last ounces of strength, the two of them removed their weapons and collapsed to the floor in a pool of their own blood. Friends. Comrades. Brothers-in-arms. Turned enemies on the battlefield. The sky was black. Soot and embers slowly descended onto the blackened ground. Everything was burnt. The trees crumbled to ash, the ruins of castles toppled over and there countless bodies of dead warriors. The roars of a dragon shook the skies. A terrible thunder.

Standing in the center of what was left were two magicians. One had light skin, short silver hair, green eyes and torn and tattered green robes. The other had light skin, long, pale blonde hair, blue eyes and wore a dark blue dress and a crown with red gems embedded at its center. The green-robed magician took one step before toppling to the ground, panting. The blue dressed mage approached him and grabbed him by the hair.

???: Come on, Ozpin. Why don't you just admit defeat and join me? We are now at our full strength thanks to the Holy Grail. We have been blessed with a miracle.

Ozpin: *stares coldly* Miracle? How can you call all of this destruction and death a miracle, Salem?

Salem: Ozpin, we were about to be rendered powerless. The mana of this land was fading and I took action to prevent such a tragedy. And look what's happened. I have restored the Age of Gods. As for all the death? Sacrifices have to be made for the greater good. *leans down and picks a handful of ash* One day, a new form of humanity will be born from these remnants and they'll know nothing but gratitude. I will be everything to them. We will be everything to them.

Ozpin: No... don't you dare drag me into this. You're nothing but a monster!

Salem: *lowly chuckle* Says the half-spawn of an Incubus. Tell me, did you enjoy invading the dreams of men? Promising them all the riches of the world? Or what about that young boy? The one who pulled the Sword of Selection from the stone.

Opzin: Shut... up...

Salem: It must've given you such excitement to raise the perfect warrior, the perfect king, the perfect hero. All while denying him the chance to have a normal life. To ride horses just for the fun of it? To lay on the grass and gaze at the clouds? To dance to the tune of his favourite music? To fall in love and marry?

Ozpin: I said shut up!

Salem: Your meddling of this boy's life led him to his death and the downfall of Vale. Yet you brand me as a monster?

Ozpin: I will.. agh! stop you!

Salem: *laughs* How? Look at yourself. You're pitiful. Join me. I can heal you. Together, we can rule this land and even spread our influence further. We can be the New Gods of Remnant. *offers hand*

Ozpin: I... would much rather... burn in the depths of Hell itself...

Salem: *sighs* You always were stubborn. So be it. I'll grant you your wish and I will make sure you suffer every, agonising moment.

Salem reached her hand out in front of Ozpin and dark purple flame manifested in her palm. Ozpin, weakened and broken, closed his eyes and accepted his fate as the flames scorched him to a crisp. In his final moments, he wished he could do it all again. To select the right King and save Vale. To save all of Remnant.

Remnant - 730 AGW - Kingdom of Vale

Ozpin: AAAAAAAAAAAGH!!!!

Ozpin woke with a fright in the middle of the night, his papers flying everywhere across his office. He clutched his chest, his heart was racing.

Ozpin: That... couldn't have been a dream. A memory? From one of my past lives?

???: It's a vision, actually. But not from a past life. Rather, from an alternate present.

Ozpin turned around to see a youthful looking man wearing a hooded, white robe and black baggy trousers and simple black shoes. Ozpin blinked twice. Over millennia of reincarnations, he had encountered many oddities over Remnant. But this was truly something incredibly strange. How did this man get into his office? And how did he do so without him even noticing. What was even more strange was that Ozpin didn't feel threatened by him at all.

Ozpin: Who are you?

Merlin: You may call me Merlin. *bows* It's nice to meet you, Ozpin.

Ozpin: ...how do you know my name?

Merlin: Oh, I observe all the different universes in my dimension. I know everything there is to know about you, my friend. *smiles cheekily*

Ozpin: That's... very creepy.

Merlin: Don't judge me. I don't have much to do in my prison. I gotta entertain myself somehow.

Ozpin: You're imprisoned?

Merlin: *sighs* Yeah. I ended up crossing paths with a scornful woman and she trapped me in this evergrowing tower.

Ozpin: *winces* I'm sorry to hear that. Believe me, I have a scornful woman of my own.

Merlin: Small world. *chuckles*

Ozpin: So, why is that you've come here? More importantly, how is it that you're even here in the first place?

Merlin: It's a special skill called Independent Manifestation. I am able to project myself into various worlds, like right now. What your seeing isn't the real me, but rather just a spiritual manifestation.

Ozpin: *circles around Merlin* Fascinating.

Merlin: Now, as for why I'm here, well... it's to save you. Or at least, a version of you. *snaps fingers*

Several glowing orbs appeared right in front of the two men, the largest of which was in the middle.

Merlin: What you see here is a representation of all the worlds in existence, branching from this one. *points to the center* Endless worlds with endless possibilities. Some are mindane and some are more fantastical. Imagine a Remnant where magic still thrived. Imagine a Remnant where superheroes were the primary protectors. Imagine a Remnant where multiple Gods ruled it with iron fists. This is the multiverse.

Ozpin's eyes were wide in shock. He had read theories proposed by multiple academics and even lighthearted discussions. But the fact that he was actually seeing it with his own eyes was unbelievable. This couldn't be real.

Merlin: Many of thses universes share some commonalities, one of them being the conflict between you and the witch, Salem. Your victory is assured in almost every world. However, this one is not so lucky. *grabs orb*This world is known as Remnant 531, or as I like to call it 'Fateverse Remnant'. Through clairvoyance, I have forseen Salem's victory. It's... barbaric, to say the least. She kills you and burns down all of Remnant. *sighs* That's not a world that I want to see exist. One ruled by evil.

Ozpin: *clenches fist* Salem will win?

Merlin: Not if we can prevent it. With my help, we'll be able to alter this world's fate. I have a plan. It's unorthodox, but it will get the job done. Will you join me?

Ozpin: I can't allow for Salem to win, no matter what universe. Her depravity and hatred have no limits. I will do it.

Merlin: *smiles* Thank you, Ozpin. I promise, you won't regret this. Together, we will save this world.

[darksaiyangoku]

RWBY/Swords of Fate: Arc Kingdom

Chapter 2: The Beowolf Hunt

Team JNPR gathered together inside the basement to meet up with General Ironwood, Dr. Roman and Dr. Merlin.

Dr. Merlin: So then, it seems that you've decided to accept this mission of great importance.

Jaune: We have. If Remnant's at risk of destruction, then we're here to save it, regardless of whether it's our Remnant or someone else's.

Dr. Merlin: *smiles*I'm glad to hear that. It seems we've made the right decision in chossing you. James will explain how this is all going to work.

James: Once you step inside these coffins, you will be put to sleep. Through the control room upstairs, we will begin the process. Once the co-ordinates of the alternate Remnant are set, we will begin the transferring of the conciousness.

Dr. Merlin: You will also be able to see, hear, touch, taste and smell whatever your counterpart does. This world is not like yours, so you will need to adapt in order to survive.

Dr. Roman: I will be monitoring your vital signs throughout this mission. If I feel as though there might be any risk of you all dying, then we'll send you back here

Jaune: *gulps* G-Good to know, *nervous chuckle*

Nora: *raises hand* Can I ask you something, Dr. Merlin? What is with these suits you've given us?

Before they had accepted, Team JNPR were told to changes from their Combat Gear into white tunics and black trousers. Nora grimaced at this.

Dr. Merlin: These are called Mystic Codes. They allow for mana to flow through your body in order to make the transfer work more efficiently. This way, your body won't fall apart when the transfer occurs.

Nora: Ah, I see. Neat... but do they have to look so boring?

Dr. Roman: Boring? I find them to be quite stylish!

James: Ugh, can we please get down to the business at hand? Team JNPR, get inside the Coffins. We will begin the transfer now.

Team JNPR followed the General's orders and they each entered the Coffins. Jaune immidiately began to feel claustrophobic as soon as the lid closed. He could feel his breath start to weaken. But he clenched his fist as tried to bear with it. The General, Doctors, his Team and the alternate Remnant were counting on him. He had to stay strong. Trying to relax his muscles, Jaune closed his eyes as the Coffin put him to sleep.

[Control Room]

James monitored the Doctors as they made the preparations on the machines.

Dr. Roman: Vital signs look good. Body temperature is consistent with each other, no signs of any lacerations or internal bleeding.

James: Good. Merlin, have you set the co-ordinates yet?

Dr. Merlin: Doing so as we speak. *inputs the co-ordinates*

The co-ordinates were as followed, Remnant: Universe 531, Desination: Kingdom of Vale, Year: 6th January 212. Beginning Universe Transfer now! *types furiously*

Once the code was typed in, Merlin pushed the green button on his left. Suddenly, the Coffins began to glow in different colours; gold for Jaune, red for Pyrrha and bright pink for Ren and Nora. The lights began to rise up and dance around the room before they finally hit the hologram of Remnant 531. It was complete. However, James was far from happy.

Dr. Merlin: *stretches* Well I'd say that was a resounding success.

James: Indeed. Good job, gentleman.

Dr. Roman: Do you think sending them two years early was the best idea?

James: If we had sent them during the event of the Holy Grail, they'd struggle. We're sending them into an unfamiliar world. If they're going to accomplish the mission, they need to adapt to their surroundings. *sighs* May the gods guide them well.

—6th January 212 Second Age, Fateverse Remnant - Kingdom of Vale, Charlemagne—

[Arc House, Malbec Town]

Jaune: Gah! *pants furiously*

Jaune felt like his lungs were on fire and fell to his knees. He could see that something had changed since he entered the Coffin. His hands were cold from the sensation of snow. In his right hand, he was holding a wooden sword. Looking around, he found himself outside of a medium-sized, stone bricked house. The roof was blanketed over a thick layer of snow. Standing next to him were 3 older girls. One had bright blonde hair, just like his, but with golden-amber eyes and wore a red, long sleeved tunic and brown trousers. One had dark blonde hair and blue eyes like his, wearing a yellow short sleeved dress and another had a streak of green in her dark orange hair and also had blue eyes, wearing a dark green, short-sleeved tunic and white trousers. Jaune blinked twice in disbelief. They were his sisters; Rouge, Saphron and Verte.

Rouge: Jaune?! What happened??? *runs to him*

Saphron: Are you okay?

Jaune: *grunts* Um... I guess? *

Verté: *sighs* We told you that practicing out in the cold was a ridiculous idea. Come on inside. Noir and Blanc are cooking dinner.

Jaune: Wait, what? Since when were those two able to cook anything?

Verté: ...they've been cooking our meals since 3 years ago. You and Rouge were the ones who taught them. Are you sure you didn't hit your head?

Jaune: I-

Rouge: Just help him up, Verte. Come on.

Jaune dropped the wooden sword onto the ground while his sisters helped him back up. He shivered as the snow stuck to his knees.

Saphron: By the way, have any of you seen where Noir and Blanc have gone?

Verte: Oh they came back a while ago. They're in the kitchen cooking dinner.

Rouge: *eyes gleaming* Is it lamb stew again?

Verte: *smiles* Yep!

The four of them entered inside and Rouge took Jaune to the fireplace. She tossed a red Dust crystal onto a pile of wood and it ignited immediately. Jaune stretched out his hands and felt the warmth touch his skin.

Jaune: Mmmm, this feels nice.

Rouge: Make sure you don't fall asleep before dinner. You don't wanna miss out on the stew. *chuckles*

Jaune looked at the living room and was surprised. It looked pretty good. There were two benches place next to the fireplace opposite each other and a large bookshelf in the corner. Above the fireplace hung the portrait of a man in white armour and bearing the Arc emblem on his chest plate. On his left hand side, he carried a rather unfamiliar sword. It had a blue sheath that matched its handle and a cobalt gem embedded in the pommel. Its crossguard was a pale gold and surrounded by a ring. Upon closer inspection, Jaune noticed that he looked a lot like his father.

After 20 minutes of warming up, he was called by Verte to come into the kitchen. Jaune arrived to see Noir and Blanc carrying the pot over to the table. A large puff of steam escaped as soon as the two of them took off the lid. Everyone's eyes sparkled with hunger. The mouth-watering meat, crunchy carrots, hearty leaks and fluffy potatoes were swimming in a sea of delicious stew. Jaune wasted no time and dashed to the table.

Blanc: *giggles* Well someone's hungry!

Noir: He better be, we worked hard on this.

Jaune: Mmmmm!!! *munching and slurping* Guys, this is incredible!

Noir/Blanc: Thanks! *beams*

Rouge: So Jaune, tomorrow you'll be returning to Beacon. Have you packed everything you needed to?

Jaune nearly dropped his spoon. He just got here, he had no idea whether or not anything was packed. More importantly, he didn't even know which room he slept in. He had to think quickly to try and avoid any suspicion.

Jaune: Ummm, well... yes?

Rouge: Good to hear. *smiles and headpats him*

Jaune: Agh, Rouge, come on! I'm not a kid anymore.

Noir: Awwww, big brother's blushing!

Blanc: He likes it!

Jaune: I do not! *blushes* Hmph.

For the rest of dinner, Jaune tried his best not to speak, resulting in an awkward atmosphere. Even though they were his brothers and sisters, he was starting realise how different they were back on his Remnant. He also noticed how old fashioned this house really was. There was no sign of a TV, computer, scrollphone, fridge, or any kind of electrial appliance aside from the lights. He knew this was a different universe, but it was becoming clearer that Jaune was in a completely different time period as well. The more he thought about it, the more his head started to spin. After dinner was over, Jaune decided to go to bed early and stumbled his way up the staircase adjacent to the kitchen.

[Jaune's bedroom]

Jaune lay in his bed and stared at the ceiling. As soon as he got here, he had more questions than answers. His siblings didn't appear to be of any help and looked at him like he was crazy. He looked at around at his room and noticed it was much barer compared to the one in his Remnant. On the desk, he saw vials of dark blue Dust, along with some green, yellow and red. Next to them was his sword, Crocea Mors, sheathed in white and laying atop his shield.

Jaune: Well at least some things never change. *chuckles* I bet Ren, Nora and Pyrrha are having a much easier time than I am. *sighs* Agh. Why didn't Merlin tell us that we going back to the Dark Ages? It would've been helpful!

As he contemplated on whether this mission was even worth pursuing, Jaune heard a loud scream.

Jaune: What the-?

He walked to the desk and opened the window. The scream became louder, followed by snarls and howls.

Jaune: Grimm...

Taking his sword and shield, he hurried downstairs and burst open the door to the outside. Bracing the cold, he ran into the direction of the chaos.

[Vin Village]

Shadowy black wolves growled and snarled at the villagers. Atop their faces were bone-like masks and their eyes were a burning red. Men and women tried their hardest to fight back against the pack, but they were too strong. The beasts fought back and slashed at the people as if they were defenceless lambs. Many tried to run, but they weren't fast enough.

From within a small shrubbery, Jaune could see the attacks unfold. Grabbing his sword, he drew it and ran. With a mighty yell, he slashed at one of the beasts and chopped its arm clean off. It screeched in pain. Taking his sheath, he pushed a small button and it changed into a shield, with the emblem of the Arc Family at the front. The rest of the grimm set their sights on Jaune and surrounded him.

Jaune: Try and get as far away from here as you can. I'll hold them off.

Villager: Are you crazy? There's 7 beowolves there!

Jaune: I've handled these creatures before. I've got enough Dust with me. Just do what I say and get everyone to safety as quick as you can!

Villager: Alright. Good luck. *runs*

Jaune: *deep breath* Okay Jaune, it's just like back home.

Two beowolves lunged at him, baring their sharp claws and fangs. Immidiately, Jaune blocked them with his shield. His feet dragged against the snow as he was pushed back slightly. Raising his sword, he struck at one of them.

Jaune: Hah!!

He managed to land a scratch on its chest. The other beowolf tried to attack Jaune, but he dodged just in time.

Jaune: *grins* Yaah!

He thrusted his sword into its chest and yelled out in pain. Suddenly, Jaune noticed 3 of the beowolves running away from the village.

Jaune: Oh no you don't! *pushes beowolf with shield*

Before he could catch up to them, someone dropped down in front of the beowolves, armed with a black and red-bladed scythe. They wore a bright red cloak and their face was obscured with a hood. In a single stroke, they slew the 3 beowolves. Jaune was impressed.

???: Behind you!

Jaune: *turns around* Woah!

He narrowly avoided being scratched by a stray beowolf, losing his footing and falling to the floor. Instantly, the cloaked warrior dashed towards the grimm at top speed and blocked an incoming attack. Pushing the grimm back, they decapitated it with their scythe. Jaune shook his head and stood up. Gripping his sword as tight as possible, he and the cloaked warrior stood back to back was they were surrounded by the remaining 3 beowolves.

???: When I say 'now', we strike. Got it?

Jaune: Uh... yeah. G-Got it.

The beowolves slowly moved closer, growling. Jaune could feel his spine tingling.

???: Now! Sah!!! *slices beowolf*

Jaune: Hah! *stabs beowolf*

Jaune/???: YAAAAH!!! *chops beowolf in half*

The threat was over and the grimm crumbled into ash. Jaune turned to the cloaked warrior.

Jaune: *smiles* Thanks for the help.

???: *takes off hood* No problem, Jaune.

Jaune felt a wave of happiness as soon as the warrior unhooded herself. She had dark red hair, with bright red highlights and gleaming silver eyes. He felt stupid that he didn't recognise that it was Ruby earlier. He didn't stop to think about it and rushed towards her. He wrapped his arms around Ruby in a loving hug.

Jaune: I'm so glad to see you!

Ruby: Um... *nervous laughter and blushes* I'm glad to see you too. Is everything okay?

Jaune: Oh! *breaks hug*Uh, yeah. I-I'm fine. I-It's just nice to have help, hehe.

Jaune needed to remind himself that he had to be careful. This wasn't his world and his friends and family weren't exactly like they usually were either.

Jaune: Anyway, *ahem* how did you find out about the beowolf attack anyway?

Ruby: Oh, I heard about from a tavern at Malbec. Mom is not gonna be too happy when she finds out I've left. *nervous chuckle*

Jaune was surprised to hear Ruby mention her mom being upset. So she was alive in this universe, it seemed. Jaune shook his head to compose himself.

Jaune: I heard about the attack before I was gonna go to bed. I rushed here as fast as I could.

Ruby: Good thinking. Though you could've thrown on a coat at least, *chuckles* I gotta say, you've gotten much better since you started back at Beacon. I guess all those lessons with Mr Taurus have finally paid off.

Jaune: Mr... who?

Ruby: Mr Taurus You know, the combat instructor?

Jaune: Huh? I thought our combat instructor was Miss Goodwitch.

Ruby: ...

Jaune: What?

Ruby: Are you sure you're feeling okay?

Jaune: *groans* Man, everyone's been asking me that today. Don't worry about me, Ruby. I'm fine. How about we check up on the villagers instead? See if they need any medical attention.

Ruby: Hmmm, okay Jaune. We'll talk again later.

Ruby walked near the gate, where the villagers were gathered. Many of them thanked her and tried to give her gifts, much to Ruby's embarrassment. Jaune took one step and immidiately doubled over in searing pain. His head felt like it was being dragged across the ground. Suddenly, several images flashed in his mind. One of them was of a tall, spiky red-haired man with bronze eyes and black horns. Jaune was horrified as he recognised just who he was.

Jaune: *frantic gasping* No... A-Adam?! What the hell?! What the hell is going on?!

Jaune heard footsteps trudge along the snow and slowly looked up. It was Ozpin, dessed in black and green robes, lacking his trademark glasses and held a long, thin staff with an emerald on top of it.

Ozpin: Hello Jaune.

Jaune: O-Ozpin. *coughs*

Ozpin: Steady there. It's time you and I had a little chat.

Jaune: What about-?

Ozpin: I'll explain to Miss Rose about the situation later. In the meantime, I suggest you come with me. Your journey through the multiverse must've taken a toll on you.

Jaune: ...how did you know?

Ozpin: *smirks* Merlin sent me a little message.

[darksaiyangoku]

RWBY/Swords of Fate: Arc Kingdom

Chapter 1: The Beowolf Hunt

Fairy tales. Myths. Legends. Stories with ever evolving characters and events. Many share a common source and many diverge from their original tellings. No two versions of one story are ever exactly the same. This is one such a story. A young man desired to cherish and protect. He never imagined that he would be the one to pull the legendary sword from the stone. In this tale, you will witness the trials and tribulations that shaped him from a simple huntsmen to the King of Vale. So begins the path to a new era of Remnant; the Arc Kingdom.

5th January, 734 AC

Jaune: *swinging his sword* Ha! Yah! Fwooo!!!

Rogue: Gh! *chops firewood* Gah!

Saphron: Verte! Have you seen where Noir and Blanc have gone?

Verte: They're in the kitchen. They're gonna be the ones cooking dinner tonight.

Rouge: *eyes gleaming* Is it lamb stew again?

Verte: *smiles* Yep!

Saphron: Alright! Come inside, Jaune!

Jaune: You three go on ahead. Let me finish practicing out here.

Saphron: Oh come on! All you ever do is practice. A little break isn't going to kill you.

Rouge: If he wants to freeze to death, let him. More stew for us.

Verte: And I get his room!

Jaune: Wha- hey! Get back here! *runs inside*

An hour had passed and Noir and Blanc carried the pot over to the table. A large puff of steam escaped as soon as the two of them took off the lid. Everyone's eyes sparkled with hunger. The mouthwatering meat, crunchy carrots, hearty leaks and fluffy potatoes were swimming in a sea of delicious stew. They wasted no time in digging into the meal.

Jaune: Mmmmm!!! Guys, this is incredible!

Noir/Blanc: Thanks! *beams*

Rouge: So Jaune, tomorrow you'll be returning to Beacon. Have you packed everything you needed to.

Jaune: Mmhmm. My weapons, spare clothes, Dust and all of my books. I'm all set.

Rouge: Good to hear. *smiles and headpats him*

Jaune: Rouge, come on! I'm not a kid anymore.

Noir: Awwww, big brother's blushing!

Blanc: He likes it!

Jaune: Ack! I do not! *blushes* Hmph.

Two hours had passed and Rogue, Saphron and Verte were getting ready for bed. Jaune, meanwhile, popped outside. Near the house was a small gravestone. He knelt to it and clasped his hands together.

Jaune: I'll be heading to Beacon again soon, master. *chuckles* I can't believe that it's already been 4 months. You should've seen me in the Initiation, I was terrible. *laughs* But somehow, I managed to impress the headmaster and now I have a team of my own. We're called JNPR, like the berries. *touches the ground* I've written to Shirou as well, and I've made sure he's okay. He's taken up a part time appretinceship as a blacksmith in the Kingdom of Mistral, says he's working on forging two exceptional swords. Anyway, goodnight.

Jaune rose up from the snow and shivered. The cold really hurt his knees. As he was about to open the door, he heard a loud scream.

Jaune: What the-?

The scream became louder, followed by snarls and howls.

Jaune: Grimm...

Jaune burst open the door and rushed to his bedroom. Taking his father's sword and shield, he hurried outside and ran into the direction of the chaos.

[Vin Village]

Shadowy black wolves growled and snarled at the villagers. Atop their faces were bone-like masks and their eyes were a burning red. Men and women tried their hardest to fight back against the pack, but they were too strong. The beasts fought back and slashed at the people as if they were defenceless lambs. Many tried to run, but they weren't fast enough.

From within a small shrubbery, Jaune could see the attacks unfold. Grabbing his sword, he drew it and ran. With a mighty yell, he slashed at one of the beasts and chopped its arm clean off. It screeched in pain. Taking his sheath, he pushed a small button and it changed into a shield, with the emblem of the Arc Family at the front. The rest of the grimm set their sights on Jaune and surrounded him.

Jaune: Try and get as far away from here as you can. I'll hold them off.

Villager: Are you crazy? There's 7 beowolves there!

Jaune: I've handled these creatures before. I've got enough Dust with me. Just do what I say and get everyone to safety as quick as you can!

Villager: Alright. Good luck. *runs*

Jaune: *deep breath* Okay Jaune, just remember your training.

Two beowolves lunged at him, baring their sharp claws and fangs. Immidiately, Jaune blocked them with his shield. His feet dragged against the snow as he was pushed back slightly. Raising his sword, he struck at one of them.

Jaune: Hah!!

He managed to land a scratch on its chest. The other beowolf tried to attack Jaune, but he dodged just in time.

Jaune: *grins* Yaah!

He thrusted his sword into its chest and yelled out in pain. Suddenly, Jaune noticed 3 of the beowolves running away from the village.

Jaune: Oh no you don't! *pushes beowolf with shield*

Before he could catch up to them, someone dropped down in front of the beowolves, armed with a scythe. They wore a bright red cloak and their face was obscured with a hood. In a single stroke, they slew the 3 beowolves. Jaune was impressed.

???: Behind you!

Jaune: *turns around* Woah!

He narrowly avoided being scratched by a stray beowolf, losing his footing and falling to the floor. Instantly, the cloaked warrior dashed towards the grimm at top speed and blocked an incoming attack. Pushing the grimm back, they decapitated it with their scythe. Jaune shook his head and stood up. Gripping his sword as tight as possible, he and the cloaked warrior stood back to back was they were surrounded by the remaining 3 beowolves.

???: When I say 'now', we strike. Got it?

Jaune: Yeah.

The beowolves slowly moved closer, growling. Jaune could feel his spine tingling.

???: Now! Sah!!! *slices beowolf*

Jaune: Hah! *stabs beowolf*

Jaune/???: YAAAAH!!! *chops beowolf in half*

The threat was over and the grimm crumbled into ash. Jaune turned to the cloaked warrior.

Jaune: *smiles* Thanks for the help, Ruby.

Ruby: *takes off hood* No problem, Jaune.

Jaune: How come you didn't tell me that you were in Charlemagne?

Ruby: *nervous laughter* Sorry about that, it kind slipped my mind. I was at a tavern with mom and dad when I heard about the attack.

Jaune: Huh. I heard about the attack before I was gonna go to bed.

Ruby: I gotta say, you did look a little rusty. Have you been slacking off.

Jaune: Wha? No! I just... *shifts eyes* haven't fought any grimm in a while.

Ruby: Yep, that's a given. *chuckles* I'm looking forward to going back to Beacon tomrrow.

Jaune: Me too! It'll be great to see our friends again. *sighs* Though I'm not looking forward to seeing CRDL.

Ruby: You still upset about the sparring match?

Jaune: I can handle losing a sparring match. But breaking my sword was crossing the line! Anyway, um, I never thanked you for helping me back then.

Ruby: There's no need to worry about it. After all, what are best friends for? *smiles*

Jaune: Yeah, that's true. *chuckles* Still, you're amazing.

Ruby: Thanks Jaune.

Jaune: Anyway, we should check on the villagers. See if they're okay.

Ruby: Yeah *nods*

The two of them walked near the gate, where the villagers were gathered. Many of them thanked Jaune and Ruby and tried to give them gifts, much to their embarrassment. From afar, the wizard Ozpin was watching them.

Ozpin: And so it begins. *smokes pipe*

[Castle Vale]

In the throne room, King Vortigern sneered at the black crystal ball next to him.

Vortigern: You musn't worry so much.

Crystal ball: You made a dangerous mistake, Your Majesty. Making a deal with Ozpin? Are you trying to incur my wrath?

Vortigern: He won't win.

Crystal ball: How can you be certain?

Vortigern: Because I saw to it personally. Uther doesn't have any living heirs. Without him, the bloodline has ended. That sword will remain in the stone for eternity.

Crystal ball: What of Ozpin, then?

Vortigern: I'll see to his demise myself. After all, *eyes turn draconic* you blessed me with this power. He doesn't stand a chance.

[darksaiyangoku]

RWBY Christmas Tales

The Dragon King

For Kina and Borvak.

Jaune licked his lips as Rouge pulled out the the salmon from the oven. He, Saphron, Verte, Noir, Blanc and their parents, Lucien and Grace hummed delightfully as the rich aroma danced on their nostrils.

Rouge: *grabs a large knife and fork* Alright everyone, let's dig in. *carves the salmon*

The Arc Family devoured their breakfast swifty, leaving behind clean plates. Rouge's eyes were wide in shock and embarrasment.

Rouge: Animals... my family are complete animals...

Lucien: Sorry about that, sweetheart. *wipes his mouth* We just love your cooking so much.

Blanc/Noir: Yeah!

Rouge: Just behave yourselves at the Christmas Banquet today.

Jaune: Don't worry, big sister. You won't hear a peep out of us. We'll be as good as gold.

Verte: Dibs on the last salmon! *goes to grab it*

Saphron: No way! It's mine!

Jaune: Give it here!

Blanc: No fair, I want it!

Noir: Shut up and give it to me!

Rouge: *groans in annoyance*

[Kingdom of Vale- Vale Castle Courtyard]

The Arc Family arrived in the Vale Courtyard and saw that everyone was playing in the snow, even the knights. Noir and Blanc raced towards the commotion and hastily made their snowballs to join in. The older siblings chuckled in amusement, with Jaune fighting the urge to join in.

Saphron: Go ahead, Jaune. *smiles*

Jaune: Yes! *runs up and get hits by snowball* Ow! Blanc!

Blanc: It wasn't me! Noir did it!

Noir: Did not!

Blanc: Did too!

Jaune: I know a way to settle this. *grabs snowballs* Run for cover!

Everyone cheered and laughed as they pelted each other with snowballs. Rouge, meanwhile, tried to hide. She didn't want to get her new dress wet. Once the fight was over, the people were invited inside for a lavish Christmas Banquet. The tables were laid out with some of the most exquiste spreads; roast beef, roast pork, roast chicken, roast turkey, roast goose, roast pheasant, sausages, bacon, mashed potatoes, leek and potato stew, carrot and parsnip soup, caramalised onions, grilled fish, potato croquettes, a cheeseboard, cherry pies, mince pies, stollen, strudels, crepéa and figgy pudding. Jaune couldn't believe his eyes. All of this was ready to be feasted on by knights and peasants alike. As everyone enjoyed their meals heartily, the King, George Draco, sat beside his advisor, the mage Ozma.

Ozma: *leans in* Your Majesty, now that everyone is here, I believe it is time to make the announcement.

George: *nods head and rises* Attention, everyone.

The guests all turned to the King at once.

George: Welcome one and all to this joyous occassion. I wish you all a very Merry Christmas. I am grateful to receive the wonderful gifts that you have left me and my loyal knights. But now, I have a gift for you. *raises arms* This very castle.

The crowd murmered to each other in surprise. King George was often referred to as "The Generous One", but to give away his entire castle sounded too much. Even Jaune's family was confused by this arrangement. King George smiled and raised his hand to calm the audience.

George: Let me explain. For 20 years, I have ruled this land and I have watched Vale blossom from a rough and frail land into a wonderful kingdom. But as a mortal, my life is finite. Eventually, I will no longer walk among you and, as I have no heir, you will be left without a ruler.

Ozma: *walks to the center* In the centre of the courtyard stands a relic from the Conjunction of the Spheres; a sword known as Caliburn. It is lunged within a stone and, whomever is worthy, shall inherit the Kingdom of Vale.

Jaune couldn't believe his ears. Inheriting a kingdom just for pulling a out a sword? He couldn't help but smile at the ludicrousy of it all. The guests, meanwhile, chatted amongst themselves in a mix of excitement and concern. Magic wasn't trusted, some outright feared it and to let magic decide the fate of Vale was rather dangerous. But the alternative could power a struggle and eventually a civil war. No one should have to fight their own brothers and sisters for a throne. After the feast, everyone gathered outside to gaze at the sword in the stone. It was a gleaming, silver blade with a silver crossguard modelled after dragon wings, dark blue handle and a sapphire embedded into the pommel. One by one, several people stepped up to face the challenge of Ozma, from peasants to barons, lords, ladies and even the knights. But none could do so much as move it, let alone pull it out. Jaune felt his tunic being dragged by his brothers as they pulled him towards the altar.

Jaune: Wha- hey! What are you two doing?

Blanc: Come on, big brother! You have a go!

Noir: Yeah, you can do it!

Jaune: Hehe, boys, no one else could do this. I don't think-

Blanc/Noir: Pleeeeeeease??

Jaune: *chuckles* Alright, alright.

Jaune grabbed the handle with both of his hands and took a deep breath. He placed his foot on the stone and pulled as hard as he could. Just like the others, however, he top struggled and his face turned red from the straining. In the end, he gave up and returned to his family.

Blanc: Awww.

Noir: Unlucky.

Jaune: It's okay, boys. *chuckles* At least I tried.

It didn't seem like anyone would be able to lift the sword out after all and people were starting to grow weary. At the sky became dark, the courtyard shrank as many of the guests had decided to go home. One young, blue-haired boy, however, stared at the sword with intrigue. He walked up to it and grabbed a hold of the handle. Suddenly, the sapphire started to glow and, with gentle force, the boy pulled it out effortlessly. Everyone's eyes nearly popped from their sockets. This young boy, who seemed to have gone unnoticed throughout the day, had successfully won the Kingdom of Vale. The boy stood back, bewildered at the sight of everyone bowing down, including the Arc Family and the King himself. Ozma stepped forward and smiled.

Blue-haired boy: W-What's going on?

Ozma: You are next in line to rule as King. We have finally found an heir! *bows down* All hail, Prince Arthur Azure!