RWBY Witcher Tales
—The Seventh Paladin—
It was a cool morning in the Kingdom of Céline and outside of a small cottage was a young, blonde-haired boy named Jaune Arc. In his hands, he he held a long stick and came face to face with his opponent; a crudely made dummy of rags and straw. Jaune circled the dummy and delivered several hacks and whacks to it.
Jaune was channeling every ounce of strength into each attack, smirking as he saw bits of straw fall to the ground. With a deep breath, he held the stick up high and smacked the "head" of the dummy with tremendous force, tearing it off.
Jaune: *pants*...maybe I overdid it a little. *chuckles*
The sound of trotting hooves alerted him to a nearby horse and cart. The driver, an elderly man named Barry, arrived on the road to pick up Jaune for work.
Barry: Still messin' around with that stick, young man?
Jaune: It's called 'training', Barry.
Barry: *chuckles* Oh Jaune, I thought you would've learned by now that your trainin' is worth dirt. No commoner in the history of Céline has ever rose to the rank of knight.
Jaune: *smiles* Then I'll be the first! Prince Carson is holding a competition to find worthy candidates and I'm gonna beat every single one of them!
Barry: *laughs* You'd have a better chance of findin' lost Elven treasures than beating a noble! Stop dawdlin' and get on the cart, you'll be late!
Jaune tossed the stick onto the dirt and jumped onto the cart. As Barry rode off, Jaune looked at the bright blue sky as he tried to cheer his spirits. No one ever took his ambition of being a knight seriously, as the only ones who were eligible were the children from the noble class. When he was younger, Jaune used to read fairy tales of simple folk who would accomplish great deeds, like fighting dragons, saving people and becoming heroes. He'd imagine himself in those stories and was desperate to show that they were possible. That a common boy could be something more.
Jaune: *whispers* Just you wait. I'll show all of you and become the greatest knight in all of Remnant!
[Kingdom of Céline - Claremont]
Claremont was a tailor shop located in the city of Céline, owned by Robert Claremont. He was a white-haired man of middle age, yet had the spirit of a youth. He could work on 10 or 15 clothes a day, and they would come out absolutely pristine! Jaune had been his apprentice since he was 10 years old and while he wasn't at Robert's skill level, he was showing good signs of improvement. Today was especially busy and Jaune was sweating from the workload. His eyes strained as he tried to focus on the last stitch of a green tunic.
Robert: Are you alright there, Jaune?
Jaune: Yep! Just gotta finish this... almost there... got it!
Jaune stood up and inspected the tunic, making sure everything looked good. It wasn't the fanciest of clothes but he was happy with his work and wanted to make sure the customer felt comfortable.
Robert: Not bad, my boy. I'm sure the customer will appreciate it. He'll be arriving today. Make sure you have your chin up, we have a lot more orders to complete.
Throughout the day, Jaune was hard at work measuring, cutting and sewing, nearly pricking his fingers a few times. One by one, the clothes were flying into the hands of satisfied customers. Soon, the last 5 minutes of work time was approaching and Robert was about to close up the shop. However, he was stopped when someone placed his foot between the door. Robert raised his eyebrow in confusion and remained calm as he tried to shoo the unruly stranger away.
Robert: *ahem* I'm sorry, but we are about to close now. You're free to visit on Monday morning, now please remove your foot from my door.
Stranger: I'm just here to collect my order. It won't take long at all. Please?
Robert: I- oh alright, but make it quick.
The stranger opened the door and stepped inside. Jaune's face turned pink as soon as he saw her. She had messy, white-blond hair and wore an ashen black leather corset, a tight green shirt, ripped black trousers and long, cream-coloured leather boots. On her back, she carried two shortswords, a bow and a quiver of arrows. Two features stuck out to Jaune the most; a pair of violet, cat-like eyes and a silver-coloured medallion in the shape of an eagle's head.
Jaune: *blushes* U-Uh um *ahem* D-Do you have y-your ticket, ma'am?
Stranger: Right here, darling. *shows ticket*
Jaune hurried to the back room and returned holding a crystal white sleeveless dress.
Jaune: I-I hope it's to your s-satisfaction, Mademoiselle.
The Stranger glanced at it and picked it up. She gave Jaune a satisfying smirk and bowed her head to him and Robert before departing. Jaune leaned over the counter, still smiling from ear to ear.
Robert: I wouldn't get too attached with the likes of her, Jaune.
Jaune: Hm? Why not? She seemed nice.
Robert: If you knew the line of work she does, you'd stay far away from her as possible. But enough about that, you did very well today. *smiles* Good work. Here you go, *tosses purse* your month's pay.
Jaune's hands nearly fell to the floor as he caught the purse. It was quite heavy. He slowly opened the bag and his eyes gleamed. Inside were 150 silver lien coins.
Jaune: My god! M-Maître Robert, this is way too much. I-I can't accept-
Robert: *chuckles* It's perfectly fine. You've come a long way these past two years and I am proud to have you as my apprentice. You've earned this coin. Take it.
Jaune was in awe and rushed over to hug his Master. Bidding goodbye, he left the shop and strapped the purse on his belt. Jaune walked with a skip in his step, not caring about who looked at him. But the further he walked, his happiness started to fade. He stopped in the middle of the street as the image of the silver lien pieces burned into his memory. It was a lot of money and Jaune knew that if he kept improving, he could make enough for his family and support them alongside his two older sister's jobs. But what would that mean for his desire to be a knight? Should he just give up? Stick something more normal and safe?
Suddenly, Jaune was knocked over as a sharp pain hit his back. He stumbled across the floor and his purse tore from his belt, the silver flying everywhere.
Jaune looked up and glimpsed at his attackers. His eyes shrank as he recognised Cardin Winchester, son of the Bishop of Céline. Surrounding him were his friends, Dove Bronzewing, Skye Lark and Russel Thrush. Each of them bore an emblem of a golden cross that was crudely sewn onto their chests.
Cardin: Well, well, well. That's a lot of coin there, Arc. Now where would a commoner like you find such treasure?
Jaune: *pants* Agh... it's mine... I... earned from my job...
Cardin: *snorts* Why would a tailor waste his good fortune on someone like you? In fact, this *takes purse* should be donated to those who rightfully deserve it. The Eternal Fire thanks you for your contribution.
Jaune: Hey give that back!
Jaune sprang up and tried to grab his purse, only to be kicked in the stomach by Skye and Dove. He doubled over and fell to his knees and Cardin laughed sadistically.
Cardin: Oh give it up. You've been weak as a lamb ever since we were little and even if you could beat me, your ass would be sent straight to prison along with the rest of your family.
Skye and Dove held Jaune's arms while Cardin and Russel started punching and kicking him. He tried to escape, but the grip was too tight. His face and body stung with intense pain. Cardin was about to deliver the finishing blow when a hand gripped him tight and pulled him away.
Cardin: Hey! What do you think you're-
Cardin backed away in a rare moment of fear as he saw who interfered. Jaune gasped as he recognised the woman who purchased the dress from his shop.
Cardin: W-We need to run. Now!
Cardin: Do as I say! If we stay here, she'll place a curse on us!
Skye and Dove dropped Jaune to the ground and followed Cardin and Russel as they ran away screaming. Jaune coughed and wheezed, still feeling the injuries dealt to him. The Stranger offered her hand and lifted him back up.
Stranger: Are you okay, darling?
Jaune: Agh! A-A little. T-Thank you, Madamoiselle.
Stranger: It's no trouhle and please, call me Robyn.
Jaune: O-Oh. Well thank you, Robyn. I'm Jaune. Jaune Arc.
Robyn: Nice to meet you. Who were those boys ans what was their problem with you?
Jaune: Ugh, they're Cardin Winchester and his little gang called 'The Eternal Fire'. They like to cause trouble for all the kids here, but especially nonhumans. Lately, I've been their favourite target. Why? I have no idea.
Robyn: Kids can be pretty cruel. What's stopping you from fighting back?
Jaune: *sighs* Even if I wanted to, I'd just get into trouble. They're all sons of nobles and if I defend myself, I'll be the one blamed for everything.
Robyn: Hmmm, I see. Tell you what, why don't I get you cleaned up and give you a hot meal?
Robyn: *ruffles Jaune's hair* It's absolutely fine. After what you've been through, you could use some cheering up.
Inside Reynard Tavern, Robyn chuckled as she watched Jaune devour a plate of sausages and baked potatoes.
Robyn: You might want to slow down a little. You haven't even healed yet from the beating.
Jaune: *feeble laugh* Sorry. I guess I was a little hungry.
Jaune: *mouthful* Sho waz za dreff fo?
Jaune: *gulps* I meant to ask what the dress was for? Are you going to Prince Charles' banquet?
Robyn: Oh I wish. No, I have a mission to take care of that involves me looking my best.
Robyn: *chuckles* Nothing to worry yourself with. *ruffles his hair*
Jaune: Hmph. *small pout*
Robyn: So tell me, Jaune, what's it like working for a renowned tailor like Robert Claremont? He doesn't let just anyone work for him.
Jaune: Well he and my father used to go to the same school when they were children and, on my 12th birthday, it was decided that I'd become his apprentice as a favour. I wasn't sure at first, but I grew to like it. We get to meet so many interesting customers. Some of them local and some of them from other parts of Remnanf.
Robyn: That's wonderful to hear. I bet your family must be proud.
Jaune: Yeah I guess, but... being a tailor isn't really what I dream of.
Jaune: I want to be a knight. A hero to defend my kingdom! Riding on horseback in shining armour! Brandising a sword at my side! Earning the glory of the kingdom!
Robyn: So you want fame and fortune? Not very chivalrous.
Jaune: Hey, it isn't about that! I just... I wanna prove to everyone that a commoner can be jusf as worthy as a noble to don armour. *clenches fist* That blood and status don't determine success.
Robyn: Hmmmm, I see. That does sound admirable and I do agree with you. Blood and status mean absolutely nothing. It's a flawed system designed to cause mistrust and anger among us all. *taps table* But first thing's first, do you even know how to use a sword?
Jaune: Um, I do practice a lot every morning before I go to work. I don't have a waster, but I use a stick.
Robyn: And do you practice with anyone at all?
Jaune: *shakes head* The things I know about sword fighting were from old books. The stances, the techniques, everything.
Robyn; I won't lie to you, you won't have a chance at joining the knights.
Jaune: ...o-oh. *hangs head*
Robyn; Which is why I'll train you myself.
Jaune: *looks up* What? Really?
Robyn: Of course. If you are serious about this and willing to put in the work, then I'll train you.
Jaune: Thank you so much! *grins*
Robyn: *raises hand* Don't expect this to be an easy ride, however. It will be gruelling. You will be beaten, bruised and bloodied almost daily. We'll treat our sparring sessions as real fights. Can you handle that?
Jaune: *nods head* Yes Robyn! I won't let you down!
Robyn; *smiles* Good. We'll start tomorrow. *leaves table* Bonne nuit.
Jaune waved goodbye as she left the tavern. His eyes sparkled with elation. For the first time in his life, someone didn't mock his ambition and was actually going out of their way to help him achieve it. He smiled again and made a vow not to let Robyn down.
Jaune yelled out as he was forced to the ground from Robyn's waster. His face, arms and legs were covered with bright red bruises and his lungs were burning fiercely. Robyn stood over him playing with her waster.
Robyn: I think it's time we took a break.
Jaune: *wheezing* No... I... can still... carry... on...
Robyn: Jaune, we're stopping here. You're tiring yourself out and that's dangerous. Your enemies will take advantage of that and kill you. So let's take a break.
Jaune and Robyn sat by a tree and she pulled out a small, glass bottle filled with light blue liquid. She gently poured some of it over Jaune's wounds, making him grit his teeth as it stung.
Robyn: I know it hurts, but you have to bear it. This medicine will help and you'll be fighting fit in no time.
Jaune: What is this thing?
Robyn: It's called Sunshine. It's a mild form of potion designed for healing.
Jaune: *winces*This is mild?
Robyn: Compared to the other potions I have. If you took those, you'd be in big trouble.
Jaune: *chuckles* I have to say, you're much nicer compared to what everyone says about Witchers.
Robyn: *raises eyebrow* I don't seem to recall mentioning I was a Witcher.
Jaune: Well you're not exactly hiding it. Aside from your eyes, your medallion is giveaway.
Robyn: *laughs* I suppose I haven't done a good job of blending in. I am curious that you never mentioned anything until now, though.
Jaune: That's because I wanted to see if any of the rumours were true and so far, you're not living up to them at all. You saved from Cardin, bought me a hot meal and are even going out of your way to train me. I'd say you're a good person.
Robyn: *smiles* You're a kind boy, Jaune. Never lose that. How are your wounds?
Jaune: They should be healing up soon.
Robyn: Excellent! Although since you know I'm a Witcher, I'm going to take this up a notch. *taps waster in her hand*
Jaune: Ehehe, you're joking... right?
For many days and nights, Jaune trained hard. His body had seen a slight growth in height and muscle, he was more agile and his technique was more focused. Today was the last day of summer and many of the citizens were invited to Prince Charles' castle for a banquet. No matter their social status, everyone eas welcome be they peasant or noble. The Arc Family gathered with everyone in the courtyard and clapped along as Noir and Blanc, the youngest twins, joined the dance circle.
Saphron: Whooo!!! Go Noir!
Rouge: Show them how it's done, Blanc!
Verte: Hey Jaune, why don't you join in? Who knows, you meet even find a lucky lady. *winks*
Jaune: Wha- Verte! *blushes* Th-That's not why I'm here!
Rouge: Yeah, yeah, you're here for the swordfighting contest. Try to lighten up a little, we're just having fun.
As the morning turned to evening, the main event was about to be begin. Arriving in the courtyard was the young man himself, Prince Charles of Celiné. He had ashen black hair with a large, cyan streak at the front, emerald green eyes and wore a long, white linen tunic that stunned the crowd. Beside him was his best friend and leader of his Six Paladins, Orlando Lima. He was tall and green-haired, with brown eyes and wore lightweight green armour. Charles turned around to see his audience as they bowed to him. After a few minutes of speeches, it was time for contest to commence. However, this was no ordinary contest, as Charles had made an interesting addition to the rules. The winner would be offered an official membership into the Paladins. Within the crowd, Jaune soon became nervous. There was no way he could compete with the other swordsmen, he had only trained for six months. One by one, many of the compeitors had been defeated and standing victorious was his old enemy; Cardin. Jaune was about to turn away until his brothers blacked his path.
Blanc: Come on, big brother! Go!
Noir: Yeah! You got this!
Jaune: Hold on, I- gwagh!
Jaune was pushed into the centre where he came face to face with Cardin, who laughed mockingly..
Cardin: Oh this is too perfect! The Eternal Fire has blessed me with victory if he sent you as my challenger.
Jaune: L-Listen Cardin, I-
Cardin: Don't worry, Arc. I'll make this quick as to not humilate you. Haaaaah!!! *runs*
Cardin raised his waster high into the air and tried a downwad slash. Without even thinking, Jaune parried the incoming attack and elbowed him in the chest, staggering him. For a moment, Cardin was in shock but quickly regained is composure as he resumed his attacks. Jaune dodged each one with graceful agility and thwacked him from behind. The crowd gaped in excitement and intrigue, as did Charles and Orlando. Cardin, however, was gerting angrier and carelessly thrashed around. Jaune blocked and countered each strike and landed several blows across Cardin's stomach, arms, shins and his face. Cardin reached his limit and yelled as tried to thrust, only to be kicked to the ground as Jaune disarmed him. He couldn't believe it. He had lost. Jaune put his waster back in its sheath and bowed his head to the Prince.
Charles: *claps* Marvellous! Absolutely marvellous!
Jaune: Thank you, Your Highness.
Charles: What's your name?
Jaune: It's Jaune. Fourth child of the Arc family and the first son.
Charles: Hm. I don't think I've heard of the Arc family before.
Jaune: *chuckles nervously*We're not exactly famous. We're a common family with jobs like servers or tailors.
Orlando: And yet your technique with a sword was impressive. You must have had an excellent teacher.
Jaune: You could say that.
Charles: *smiles* Well now since there's no more challengers, I declare Jaune Arc as the winner!
Jaune: Excuse me?! Y-You mean I get to be one of your Paladins?
Cardin: What?! *gets up* Your Highness, I demand that he be disqualified from this contest! He had no right to join this contest in the first place! He's not of noble blood!
Orlando: Now, now settle down. The contest was open for everyone to compete in. Status doesn't matter at all.
Charles: And Jaune won fair and square. As such, he will be a squire for the Paladins. *turns to Jaune* Do you accept?
Jaune: *bows* Yes, Your Highness!
The room erupted with applause and Jaune's face turned rose red with embarrassment. But the loudest shouts and claps came from his family. He had done them proud. Amidst the cheering was a violet-eyed woman in a hooded cloak, smiling proudly. History was made that day; the day when the Seventh Paladin had arrived.
