Chapter 2: Life in Midgar

[Location: In front of Aerith's house; Sector 5; Midgar Slums;]

[Planet: Gaia]

Ruby and Jaune were still standing in the same spot, both wearing the same shocked expressions from what they just heard.

Well, it wasn't every day they die, get revived, and then sent to another world to be saviors.

They were currently trying to cope with the cold hard truth that they will never return to Remnant or see their friends and families again.

It still felt like everything was a bad dream, and yet, here they were, in Midgar, given the task to save the planet.

Save the planet from who or what, they didn't know, but they were also asked to find her daughter the last Cetra and protect her, and if that was their mission, than they would see to the end.

Aerith, the lovely pink-themed florist they had met recently, just finished telling them that the Cetra was the original name given to the Ancients.

They obviously didn't know what that meant, and that brief amount information didn't give them much to go on. Even after hearing that many of the fairy tales from their world were true, the one Aerith told them takes the cake.

That wasn't all, the young florist figured out they weren't from this world and Ruby told her everything, which led to her revealing the truth. That Aerith was the last Ancient that they're supposed to find and protect.

Aerith smiled at the two teenagers shocked expressions. She just met them, but for some reason, she felt as if she had known for a long time.

Ruby was a bouncing ball of energy, happy and sweet, so Aerith knew that she'd get along with her easily. Jaune was the same, except he was a bit less energetic and slightly dorkier.

"Both of them have been through so much already," Aerith murmured with sorrow in her eyes. However, she didn't know that they gave her the abridged version and that the full story was even worse than what she imagined.

"Yet…they still have the strength to go on. To live in this world with only each other to rely on and to try to put their pasts behind them and move ahead. It takes a lot of courage," Aerith thought as her expression became softer.

She could tell they were hurting inside, away from their loved ones, from their home, and stranded in an unknown world unfamiliar to them. Now they were caught in this mess that still hasn't taken shape. The events that were to come have already been set in motion. The real question was, how long did they have?

It can take weeks months or years. The Ancient didn't know it, but she was clear that the future has been changed with the arrival of these two off-worlders.

The future she once saw was no longer set in stone. However, it was yet to be known if that was a good or bad thing.

"I'm very lucky to have two bodyguards. One is plenty but I get two, I'll take it," Aerith said as she patted her hands on their shoulders.

"Bodyguards?" blinked Jaune.

"Well, we are supposed to look after her as part of the whole save this world thingy," replied Ruby.

"You two have a lot to learn if you want to adjust to life in Midgar. Do you guys even know where you're going to be living?" Aerith asked with her now trademarked smile.

Both teenagers were scratching the back of their heads with expressions of shame on their faces.

Aerith told them there are inns places to stay but neither of them have Gil, so it's out of the question. The money from their world is pretty much worthless here.

"I don't think my mother will have a problem with letting you two stay for the night."

"Really?" Ruby smiled with stars shining in her eyes.

"You might be able to stay for a couple of days. Or at least until you guys find a job that will help you earn money to rent an apartment or an inn. Earning a living shouldn't be too hard as long as you know how to fight."

"Are you suggesting we become mercenaries?" Jaune asked before stood in thinking posture.

"Yeah, that makes sense. It's the most obvious choice for strays like us," Jaune titled his head. He knew there were mercenaries in Remnant, and that sometimes they got paid more than actual Huntsman. With this, they could solve their homeless problem was easy.

Aerith too was deep thought. She was having trouble deciding whether she should tell Elmyra the truth concerning these two.

Worse yet, how do you explain that they were sent to Midgar by her deceased biological mother to protect her?

Her adopted parent loves her very much, almost as if Aerith was her own child, but Elmyra knows about Shinra's motives. She was afraid her mother would think they were undercover agents or something.

Aerith hated keeping secrets from her adoptive mother, not to mention she has never lied a day in her life. The florist wouldn't even know is she was a decent liar or not, so it was better not to risk it.

The only thing she should do right now is to do the right thing. Aerith will just tell her mother and be done with this whole ordeal.

Besides, Elmyra would never turn down the chance to help some good people. No longer needing to think about it anymore, Aerith looked at her new companions and smiled.

Ruby and Jaune weren't just her bodyguards but her friends now too. The pink-themed florist had a feeling that she would forge a strong friendship with the teenagers in the future, so she was looking forward to getting to know more about them.

"Well, let's go inside and meet my mom," Aerith chuckled and sped up a bit.

The Arc and the Rose followed the young woman climbing the small wooden staircase as she opened one of the double doors of the front.

As soon as they entered, the Hunters from another world were in awe of their surroundings. The interior was as beautiful as the outside. There was a wooden dining table for three people, some flowers in a pot, another non holographic screen, a mirror among other decorations like paintings, and a lit chandelier above their heads.

An older woman looking to be in her mid-forties came down from the stairs and noticed the two Hunters standing beside her daughter. Elmyra had golden blond hair that was tied on a bun, and grey-blue eyes. She was wearing an apron, green blouse with short sleeves around the elbows, and long brown boots that stopped around a foot or so below her knees.

The two Huntsmen already knew that she wasn't Aerith's real mother since they met the real one in the shortly after dying. However, form observing the environment, they could tell that Elmyra had taken good care of the florist and treated the Cetra as if she were her own child.

"Sweetie, you're earlier than usual. No luck today?" Elmyra called out.

"It's one of those days, mom, but enough of that negativity. I want you to meet Ruby and Jaune, my new friends. New friends, this is Elmyra, my mom."

"Nice to meet you!" greeted the red cloak girl while shaking Elmyra's hands.

Jaune followed up and shook her hand before saying, "It's really nice to meet you. You raised one heck of a daughter. She's so kind and caring. Aerith has already done so much for us. Like treating us to some food-"

"No don't!" shouted the florist too late.

"Aerith!" Elmyra crossed her arms and gave a frown that showed she wasn't too happy, "You bought them food? Young lady, you know very well we shouldn't spend what little Gil we're making from our business."

"I didn't spend that much, honest, and they were so hungry I couldn't just let them starve," Aerith said in her defense.

Elmyra sighed while shaking her head and said, "Always thinking with your heart instead of your head. If they were that hungry, I could've made them something instead of you spending your hard earned wages. You should have brought them here sooner."

Jaune and Ruby chuckled nervously.

"Guess it was my fault for letting it slip," Jaune rubbed the back of his head.

Ruby nudged his foot with her boot before saying, "You think?"

The older woman took a long look at the two teenagers and thought, "They seem like nice people."

However, it surprised Elmyra to see a girl with silver eyes. She has never such eye color before.

The blond male had the appearance of a SOLDIER, but any thoughts she had that he could be one vanished when she noticed his eyes were normal. They didn't have the essence of Mako within them.

Elmyra was pretty sure that they weren't involved with Shinra or the Turks, and since they were in the clear, she thought that it was always nice that her daughter mad new friends.

"We're really sorry, Elmyra. We didn't mean to make your daughter buy us food," Ruby said with her best 'forgive me' puppy dog pout.

"That's right we promise we will pay the Gil back. Once we find a job, we'll let you know immediately," Jaune followed up.

"Quite the friends you have made," Elmyra smiled at the teenagers.

"Yeah" Aerith's expression changed, "There great, but mom… there's more you need to know. You better sit down for this one, it's a long story."

Elmyra took the tone in her daughter before nodding taking a seat. The pink-themed florist then told the two to sit as well since they were their guests.

After an hour the floral girl was able to tell her everything the teens told her all the way to the present time, including the part where her real mother was the one that sent them to this world as part of the will of the planet.

The older woman stood silent and in thought not expecting to hear something like this. Ruby and Jaune were waiting for the woman to start laughing or accuse her daughter of being a nut job.

No one would blame her for it either. It was ludicrous to believe such a crazy story, even they themselves still find it hard to believe, and they were the ones to experience it all.

Instead of doing what hey expected, Elmyra was still in thought, trying to process all of the information unloaded upon her.

"Here's hoping they don't have mental hospitals in Midgar or we might be joining the looney bin soon," Jaune commented earning a snicker from the silver-eyed petite.

"That's...Quite the tale. I never imagine it would be possible to have visitors from another world. But I suppose it's no stranger than listening to the voice of a planet," Elmyra said with a soft chuckle.

"You believe us?!" the Arc was shocked.

"Aerith would never lie to me. She's that good of a person, and I'm sure she's already told you she's an Ancient. She must trust you two a lot, but I guess it's to be expected if you two were sent here by her mother, even if she barely knows you both," Elmyra said with a gentle smile that resembled Aerith's.

"I want to help them get used to living in Sector 5. They have so much to learn about this world," Aerith replied with an excited expression.

"Thanks Aerith," smiled Ruby as she gave her a hug.

"Ooh…" Aerith was a little surprised before she closed her eyes and hugged back.

"Yeah, Ruby's a hugger," Jaune said with a grin on his face.

"If that's what you want, Aerith, I won't argue. Besides, if I told you no, you probably still help them without my permission anyway," Elmyra chuckled a bit.

Aerith giggled at her mother's comment because she knew that she right about her. "So, now that my mom knows about you two, I will tell you guys everything you need to know…Well, at least the most important stuff."

So now it was Aerith's turn to give a lesson about their world. She told the two teenagers about the planet Gaia, the Life Stream, Mako, Materia, how the Ancients use to control the Mako to create life and nature, and then came the story of the meteor that crashed on the Ancient's Promised Land two thousand years ago. It wiped out the majority of life, but some survived and continued to evolve into the beings they are today.

Aerith then proceeded to explain how the world changed and became more technologically advanced thanks to the Shinra Electric Power Company finding the way to harness the power of Mako to generate electricity for the people of Midgar.

It was a lot of information but necessary for them to know. Getting this history lesson was mandatory since they were visitors from another world. Ruby and Jaune were listening to every word she was saying with curious expressions.

The two didn't even notice that this was probably the most attention they've ever given to someone. Not even to Oobleck or Port whenever they were teaching or giving one of their speeches. It was a lot, but they did their best. When the pink-themed florist finished, they stood in thought looking at each other.

Remembering the words of the Ancient in the Promise Land, they focused on the fact that this world is on the brink of extinction. However, based on Aerith's explanation, it can be interpreted that it was probably already dying, and had been for a while now.

"Does it have to do with the Mako being extracted by the Shinra Company?" Jaune thought before coming to the conclusion that there could be a possible connection.

However, at the moment, there was too much to think about. What Aerith told them was really complicated. Definitely something they will have to get used to.

"So Midgar is the way it is thanks to this Shinra Company?" asked Ruby.

"It's the power of Mako that makes everything possible. From providing power, fuel, energy they would even use it on people. Midgar relies on Mako and the reactors that provide the electrical output."

"It kind of reminds me of Dust," Ruby tilted her head as she pondered what the differences were.

"They use that Mako stuff on people? You mentioned something about them being called soldiers, right? What's that about?" Jaune asked full of curiosity.

"Yes. They are an elite unit of strong fighters that work for Shinra exceeding in combat. Their bodies are infused with Mako, improving their strength, magic, and durability by several times a normal human's capabilities," Elmyra commented.

"And the Materia? Anyone can cast magic with them?" Ruby gushed since this was the part that she was really interested in. She used to think that only the four Maidens could have that kind of power, but if Aerith was being truthful, and Ruby believed that she was, that meant that even they could wield the forces of nature without Dust.

"Everything you told us sounds amazing and crazy at the same time. We'll do our best to adapt to this world. I still can't believe we can use magic, and to think, I thought Remnant's legends were insane," Jaune laughed happily for the first time in a while. He could get stronger, strong enough to protect what mattered most.

Jaune's eyes drifted to the Red Reaper's face before she looked back with a gentle smile that for some reason made Jaune's heart thump.

"Then how do we use these?!" the reaper took her summoning Materia.

"I've been wondering the same thing" Jaune followed up.

"Hmm...Usually summoning works like any other type of Materia. You just use it but these...They're dormant," said Aerith with a knowing expression.

"Dormant?" The Hunters said in unison.

"Summoning Materia brings out powerful creatures to aid you in battle, and the Materias are almost always active. But you have to wait a little while before they can be used. On top of that, after you use them, they'll help out and will disappear when the danger passes, or when you chose to dismiss them. After that, you will have to wait a while if you want to summon them again. Both of the Materia you have are dormant, you have to awaken them in order to use their power. To do that...the only thing I can think of is that you two will have to fight. When you're in combat or in a dire situation, the summons can sense it. I also don't know how long you will have to fight, sooo…sorry," Aerith put her hands together and gave a sympathetic bow.

"That's okay, it's no biggie. You told us enough," the silver eyed Huntress said. She was so eager to summon the creature that lies dormant within the small sphere. She almost couldn't take the suspense.

"I guess it wouldn't be fun if it was too easy" Jaune said before he gave a soft chuckle.

"I hope you guys understood everything and are able to make a living here with my lackluster explanation," Aerith said while tapping her head and sticking out her tongue.

"Seriously, it's all good. We know more than we did yesterday, and we'll learn more tomorrow," Jaune waved his hands in front of his face

"Ooh! I know what to do! If it's okay with you guys, I would like to give you a tour of Sector 5. There are many things you've missed on the way to my house," Aerith announced as she cheerfully clapped her hands in front of her face.

"That will be so cool. Thanks a lot, Aerith!" Ruby hugged her again. It was clear that the Huntress with two different hair colors already saw the young florist as a great friend.

"You're still doing so much for us Aerith. You have no idea how much this means to us," Jaune followed up while choking back his tears.

"Actually, Jaune…I have a little teensy-weensy suggestion for you," Aerith said while pinching her index finger and thumb together.

"Why do I feel like it's not something I want to hear?" Jaune scratched his head.

"You need to change that hair," Aerith chuckled before running her hand though the field of bananas.

"What's wrong with my hair?" Jaune asked. He sounded hurt as he gently removed her hand from his head.

"It makes you look like...well…how to say this…it just doesn't fit your cute face," Aerith announced, trying to use gentler words.

"More like it makes you look like a flaming dork that's obsessed with bananas," clarified Elmyra.

"MOM!" Aerith shouted with an embarrassed expression, "I was trying to be nice."

"You got to be blunt in situations like this, honey," Elmyra followed up.

"No way! I mean…I was told this hair style really works for me," Jaune commented while remembering those thirsty moms back in Mantle, that and Nora told him he looks good as well.

"Yeah, about that…you look like some set your hair on fire or planted bananas on your scalp," Ruby said while poking her fingers together.

"How can you say that to me, Ruby?! You told me I look great!" Jaune said with a shocked expression while turning to face the red cloak petite.

"Sorry, I lied. I only said that because I didn't want to hurt Nora's feelings, I know she was the one who cut it…" Ruby smiled nervously.

"Fine, I'll change it before we go," Jaune said while he hung his head down in shame and thought, "Great just when I believed I was descent enough to attract the attention of the ladies…so much for being cool like Neptune."

"Follow me, I'll give you a proper hair style," said the mother of the house.

"You should go. Mom is very good at giving haircuts, she has a lot of experience. After all, a lot of people in the slums come to her for help," The florist smiled and nudged her head over towards the sink.

"Okay" the Arc relented as he walked with Elmyra to the kitchen.

Both girls were staring as his slumped over form before they shared a laugh.

"This is turning out to be a fun day," Aerith thought as she stifled her chuckles.

"Aww…That was kind of mean. Now I feel bad," Ruby pouted.

"It's better to be honest than to lie about that. He really doesn't look good with that haircut."

"My friend Nora thought it was a good idea to give him something new just to get the attention of the girls. I think he pulled it off, back in our world at least."

"He won't here. Well...some girls might go for that thing, but it just looks like it was done haphazardly. Like they didn't think about what they were cutting and just went nuts."

"That's Nora, she was always kind of…chaotic," Ruby chuckled.

"Don't worry, when my mom is done with him, he'll be able to attract more than a few ladies," Aerith boasted both her mother's skill and her ability to spot a hottie.

Ruby just shrugged her shoulders. She didn't really know too much about that courting stuff. The whole guy/girl thing wasn't her forte. So Ruby was pretty clueless when it came to liking someone and romantic feelings, especially her own.

She didn't even notice that Aerith was staring at her with a suggestive smile.

"What is it about these two being together-together that makes me feel so happy? Well, happier than usual…" Aerith chuckled mentally.


After leaving the house, the florist led the two back to the slums. Jaune's hair style changed back to his usual cut he wore at Beacon, but much shorter and kind of spikey.

When asked what he and Elmyra chatted about when she was cutting and styling his hair, the blond responding by saying, "I don't want to talk about it!"

Elmyra gave him her honest advice. She told him to try and let it grow out, and that he'd look good with longer hair.

So, the Arc took it to heart. Besides, they were in new world, he had new hair style, so Jaune thought that he would do his best to remain positive.

The first part of the tour was a building near the path that leads to Aerith's house.

It was another nice wooden building as the young woman told them it's an orphanage home to many kids. It was also a school where they will receive some education to a certain degree.

Aerith wanted to introduce her new friends to Ms. Folia but it seems she was busy giving classes. They would have to come back another time since it would be rude to disturb her.

"Shame," Aerith said before thinking, "Well, there are still more places I can show them. Right, I should make sure they are familiar with the whole area."

The children's secret hideout was an easy find. Well, at least the front of it was. No grown-ups were allowed as stated by one the kids guarding the entrance.

The under-city station was where people take the train to get to the main city above the slums. The scrapyard where Ruby's eyes sparkled at all the different metals she had never seen before, the church where she first met them, the public cemetery, and lots of other places that took almost the whole day to tour.

When the sun started to set, Aerith smiled happily at her job well done as she thought, "That's about all I can show them, everywhere else has monsters roaming around."

Lastly, she took them to the shopping district. The items which caught the short teenager's attention were the Materia and weapon shop.

The shop signs alone made Ruby's eyes sparkle. She was beyond interested in the weapons in this world as well as the Materia that lets her cast freaking magic.

"Maybe I can come up with some ideas to give Crescent Rose and Crocea Mors an upgrade. Ooh, I should defiantly create Materia slots. Aerith said that Materia can be put on weapons and armor, giving the user the abilities to use magic. OOoh! It's going to be so cool!"

Her elated emotions quickly deflated as she realized that in order to do that, they needed Gil, and to earn money, they needed to get a job.

The red cloak girl was staring at the many types of weapons on display with twinkles of desire in her eyes.

She knew that they didn't have the money to purchase anything at the moment, but that couldn't stop her from thinking of buying parts and tools to maybe make something better than the models on the stands.

The possibilities were endless for the little red reaper. Her imagination was running wild as she hoped around from weapon to weapon, inspecting them to the best of her abilities.

Jaune just smiled at the girl while thinking, "She'll never change, always the weapon maniac, Rose."

Jaune was happy watching her make so many expressions. After what she's been through, it's better if she stays the same.

The harrowing experiences she went through is enough to traumatize anyone for the rest of their natural or unnatural born lives.

Though, it wasn't just Ruby. Jaune knew it wasn't going to be easy to be living in this world just the two of them, especially with the psychological baggage they were carrying around.

Without any of their friends from their world, they weren't sure how they could cope with the loss. However, they were given this second chance, so they weren't going to waste it.

First, they needed a job and to start rebuilding their life before moving on to the mission they were assigned.

"At least we found the person we need to protect. I rather like this lady. I think we're going to be good friends," Jaune said while nodding his head.

"Can't buy it, but nothing can stop a girl from window shopping, eh Ruby? So, what do you think of our world's weapons?" Aerith asked as she smiled at the silver eyed girl.

"Oh yeah, the weapons here look freaking awesome, and I wouldn't mind buying one of those rifles," Ruby replied as her entire face was pressed against the window display.

"You're only torturing yourself, Rubes. You know we don't have any Gil on us," said Jaune as he patted her shoulder with a sympathetic look.

"For now," Ruby smiled and tapped her fingers against each other while her hands made a pyramid.

"Well, if it makes you feel any better. I think I know what to do about our homeless situation. Since our skills revolve around being heroes, I figured that being a mercenary is a good idea. However, I thought that a merc who only fights won't make us very much. So, asides from fighting monsters, we could do all kinds of jobs. Like cleaning, painting, fixing houses, searching for missing people or animals, scavenging, planting seeds for flowers, all kinds of works that will help the people around us while filling our pockets."

"I get it, an Odd Jobs company. From slaying monsters to helping kittens out of the trees! I like the idea, Jaune," the red cloak girl said with a cheerful sway.

She was more excited about the scavenging part. Her mind couldn't help but drift to thinking that maybe she could find parts for weapons, there is a scrapyard here after all.

"Instead of plain old mercenaries, we'll be a Jack of all Trades. We'll do just about anything for a small amount of money, of course that's only if it doesn't go against our morals. It our prices have to be cheap at first since we're new in this business. But once we're well known, and have a good enough reputation, we can discuss increase in Gil for each job," Jaune said as he planned it all out.

"That seems like a good idea," said the florist with a radiant smile.

"I like it too. Good going brainy Jaune," Ruby chuckled.

"Sounds like a company I could invest in," The three turned to the owner of the new voice approaching them. It was an older woman looking in her late fifties to early sixties with white hair and dark eyes. She was wearing a semi-round hat with goggles and the usual attire the people of the slums would wear.

To be honest, she looked like someone who would be searching the trash in order to find food.

Jaune and Ruby knew this place was for the poor, but based on what she was wearing, they were starting to understand just how poor the people living in the Slums were. The Hunters now understood that the people here could barely sustain themselves with what little they have or on what they little they can earn.

That's why it will become their job to help them in exchange for some profit or reputation. The two Hunters didn't mind living in such a poor environment, as long as they had each other, they would do the best that they can do, and that's what counts.

"Sorry for eavesdropping but I couldn't help but like your idea. Name's Mireille as you can see from looking at me, I'm a scavenger of sorts. Anything of value I can get my hands on I will sell it for a fair price. I also like helping others if it's within my power. If you two want to officially make your job known to the slums, I don't mind hiring you. I could use a pair of extra hands in searching for all kinds of things. You know what they say? One man's trash is another man's treasure."

"I'm Jaune and this is Ruby. It's nice to meet you, Mireille. I guess you will be our first client," Jaune shook her hand without showing an ounce of disgust.

Seeing his attitude towards her poor attire and probably smell, she smiled and shook his hand before saying, "Glad to know. Our destination is the Sector 5 scrapyard. That's where I find the most valuable objects."

"This is going to be so cool!" Ruby bounced around.

"Well at least Ruby's looking forward to our first job," Jaune said before Aerith cut in.

"I should get going. I have to pick up flowers and try to sell them around the city. I'll see you two later. Good luck on your first job."

The two bid farewells to the young florist as they followed the older woman to the scrapyard.


The scrapyard earned its name due that fact it was a complete mess filled with lots and lots of garbage.

"Scrapyard, more like junkyard," Jaune thought as he looked around.

It could take them hours or days to find something of value or at the very least, something that it would catch their eye.

"It's like searching for a needle in haystack in this case, a needle in a mountain of garbage," Jaune sighed.

Mireille then told them to split up and take an area for themselves to scavenge through while she takes the northern section.

Jaune and Ruby both decided to take eastern section first, then they'd move to south, and lastly, they'll cover the west.

Ruby was more than eager to go looking around, and with her speed, she might actually find something.

"There has to be something that will help me forge weapon or better yet give my baby and Jaune's weapon a nice upgrade. But I should start by looking for metals that will make good tools."

She looked through piles and piles of trash, her Semblance going full force as dozens of random objects flying through the air.

"Hey, you getting it in my pile!" Jaune shouted.

"Sorry! I'm just to excited! I can't wait to start tinkering with this world's tech, imagine the upgrades, Jaune, imagine!"

"Well...There is nothing wrong with being well equipped," Jaune replied as he moved further away from the trash tornado.

It wouldn't hurt to be prepared, especially if they are to encounter monsters on a daily basis.

Aerith did warn them that there many of the creatures prowling in the outskirts of the slums, and sometimes they would occasionally appear near the residential areas, so they needed to be careful.

Jaune cracked his fingers before he said, "Well, better start searching before the day ends."

"Be careful if you encounter monsters. Sometimes small creepers will pop out from out of nowhere. I hope you two know your stuff and can handle them."

"We can handle ourselves fine don't you worry" smiled the red cloak girl.

"Good to know. I hear monsters are prowling around these parts, so if I do happen to run into some trouble, please try to look after this old woman."

"Then splitting up might not be such a good idea. If there are monsters here, we can't in good conscious leave you here on your own Mireille," Jaune said in all seriousness.

"Point taken, then stay close to me and yell if you find anything worth of value,"

"Does that count monsters?" asked the young reaper.

"No, just draw your weapons and eliminate them. Annoying critters will disturb my scavenging once they appear. Though, you should know that certain parts of the monster are valuable. It's mainly their bones and claws since the Mako within them makes for good potion crafting materials. Monster Hide also makes good armor and durable clothing. Some monsters even have edible meat."

"That's good to know…" Jaune said as he started diving into the piles, looking for anything that could worth a Gill or two.

"I've haven't had to dissect any animals since we camped out. I can't say I'm looking forward to it," Ruby blanched as she recalled Jaune teacher her how to hunt and harvest live game.

"It wasn't that bad. You picked up the camp survival methods really well, Ruby," Jaune chuckled.

The Rose and Arc stayed close to the older woman while searching through the large mountain of scrap.

Ruby used Crescent Rose and her super speed to remove the junk.

It was a good move as Jaune did the same drawing Crocea Mors and stabbed into the pile of trash before throwing it behind him.

Mireille was taking her sweet time searching through the many piles. Pretty clear she's very experienced in the field.

While Mireille had some good finds, the Pair of Hunters found, tires, car pieces, lamps, windows, doors, more furniture, construction materials that were obviously old and worn out. Not exactly something that will get a good price for people that have a low income.

It was worse for Ruby, other than the pile of scrap metal she had going, she had yet to find any parts for weapons.

After Jaune found a rather nice coil that was at least 2% Mithril, a sudden sound caught their attention. From within the piles of junk, there was movement that forced some stray piece of trash to fall around them.

The teens readied their weapons seconds before they saw a couple of creatures leaping out from the junk pile.

"Found monsters!" Ruby shouted.

"Yep! Those are Monsters, definitely not Grimm," Jaune said as he raised his shield.

"Do your thing!" shouted the scavenger as she ignored the commotion and went on searching through the trash.

Around the Hunters were three Hedgehog Pie monsters running towards them with their pudgy legs. They were small and chubby looking monsters that had spikes all over their backs and head, lightly colored tummies, and flat grotesque faces with beady little yellow eyes.

Ruby didn't waste any time as she shot one on the head killing it instantly.

Jaune slashed one across the creature's stomach and face, cutting half of its body and leaving it on the verge of being ripped in two. Needless to say, it died rather quickly.

As for the last one, Ruby lined up her scope took the shot. The bullet left her chamber and traveled down the barrel in a burst of heat and fire. The bullet lodged itself inside the monster's cranium, killing the last one as quickly as the first.

"That's it? They were weaker than I thought they'd be," Jaune said as he wiped the blood off of his sword with a rag.

"We're done!" Ruby shouted.

"Nice job. Keep it up!" Mireille shouted back.

Ruby looked at the monster's bodies and then turned Jaune with a pout that could make a stone-cold killer cave in.

"Alright, I'll take care of the icky part. You're lucky I'm kind of curious if they are anything like an animal. Besides, learning its anatomy will make it easier to kill in the future." Jaune shook his head before going over to the older lady and asking, "You got any gloves and a knife I can borrow?"

Mireille nodded her head and went through her things before giving him a pair of large rubber gloves, an apron, and a very sharp dagger.

Jaune thanked her before he put the gloves and apron on before he pulled out a dagger that he borrowed from Mireille and cut into the creature's stomach.

"Hey, Mireille? Are these things edible?" Jaune asked.

"Yep! Why do you think they're called Hedgehog Pies? There a pretty good restaurant that can cook em up for us. They're pretty good, kind of like a cross between chicken and beef jerky. You just got to know that red blood means it's usually safe to eat," Mireille replied as she got back to work.

"Red blood good to eat. Other colors it's better to throw away. Good to know," Jaune hummed as he crouched down and inspected the corpse of the monster he nearly cut in half.

While he cut open the stomach and pulled the sack out, he examined the insides and cleaned it out with a bottle of water he also ended up borrowing from the elderly scavenger.

"Hmm…one heart, two lungs, but all of their organs are compacted in their tiny body. Just stabbing it once ought to be enough to kill them instantly. However, the hitting organs end up spoiling the edible meets. I'll have to be careful to hit the heart or the head only.

Jaune then quickly harvested the Hedgehog Pie and set aside the edibles with the crafting resources.

Mireille guided him through what was valuable and what could be thrown away, making Jaune's job much easier.

When he finished, he looked at Ruby's green face and said, "You get used to it after a while."

"I know…it took me forever to get used to red blood, but theirs is green and yellow. It just makes it…you know,"

"No, there blood is red, the green stuff the contents of their stomach and the yellow mustard color is from organs I nicked while trying to cut it out. We have to be careful not to hit them in the stomach if we're going to harvest them in the future. Also, you have to overcome that issue. Sometimes, I might not be around to do this, and we need the money, Ruby. So just think about it like this, doing this can let you buy more weapons because you can both exchange the parts for Gil and save money by eating the meat."

"Yeah, I can do it too…just not today," Ruby whistled and looked away from Jaune's disapproving stare.

They let out a soft chuckled before they went back searching. Every now and then, more of the red small creatures with spikes on their heads and back came out to fight.

Asides from Hedgehog Pies they encountered, the fought against a monster called a Wererat.

It was a medium size rat-like dog that had four paws with sharp claws, a slim hairless tail, razor sharp teeth, and lots of grey fur.

Ruby was startled by its appearance. To her, it looked more like a wolf-rat. Needless to say, she immediately cut it in two and caused a purplish-black spray of blood to get all over her stockings.

"Yuck, yuck, yuck! It's even more gross than those red thingies," Ruby said as she shook her hands and wiggled around in disgust.

"Why are you freaking out, I'm the one that has to cut it up!" Jaune joined her as he looked at the monster with a green face.

Before they knew it, hours went by, and they managed to slay several more monsters rather than finding anything of real value in the scrapyard.

Mireille had her sack filled, and from the looks of her cheerful expression, it seemed like she found what she was looking for.

Turning to the workers she hired, she saw that they just finished taking another pack of Wererats.

Sure, they didn't find anything worthwhile in the junk pile, but they got plenty of meat and bones to sell, and they did their job protecting her.

Thanks to the Hunters letting her do her job without being interrupted, Mireille managed to find quite the haul.

Grabbing the sack, she was ready to leave noticing the sun was almost down. It will get dark soon and this place will get a whole lot dangerous during the night. No way she will stay late and see what kind of monsters will come.

"That will be enough for today. I found quite the lot to earn a good amount. Time to head back."

"But I still haven't found anything of worth," said the blond with a disappointed gesture comprised of slumping his shoulder down and hanging his head.

"Hah! I have a whole pile of scrap metal ready to be melted down," Ruby puffed her chest out.

"You got Gil to pay for that? Cause I'm sure the metallurgist won't work for free?" Jaune lifted a brow.

"Well…we can sell the bones and meat…"

"You want to use what little funds we can get to melt metal, yeah, okay. I can put up with that," Jaune said with a very monotone voice.

"I think I can help with that. You did a job well done fending off the monsters and saving my hide. It was more of a bodyguard mission than scavenging. I will give you your pay as promised," Mireille pulled out a small pouch before taking the Gil coins from it.

"That's three hundred Gil, and an extra one hundred for your first time. A total of four hundred Gil. Not bad you two, you have earned yourself a returning client. Keep up the good work."

"Thanks a lot Mireille!" chirped Ruby happy that they finally have some money from this world.

"Come on, let's leave this place before dangerous monsters show up, load everything in the cart and I'll show you where to sell those monster parts."

"How much do you think we made," Jaune said as he looked at the field of dissected monsters.

"Hmm…let's see, the pelts, bones, the organs, and edible meat combined, I'd say you made 750 Gil," Mireille informed the two who smiled brightly.

"Did we just make 1.15K in one night?" Ruby giggled with joy.

"I guess being Hunters is another viable job for our up-and-coming mercenary business. Some monster extermination will do us good, not to mention keep us combat ready," Jaune chuckled.

"What should we call the business? Hmm...Jack of all trades makes JOAT...if we add on our last names, it would be...JOATAR, no, that's not a word...or maybe we should use JR Mercenary Business."

"So, it comes back to Team Junior. We could just use JOAT and make the J sound like a G," Jaune chuckled.

"The Goat? Channeling your inner Ozpin on that one, aren't you?" Ruby chuckled back.

"Greatest of all time, G.O.A.T and J.O.A.T Jack of all trades, it kind of rings,"

"We are not calling ourselves the Goat Mercenary Squad," Ruby laughed a bit as she thought of the cute animal.

However, her laughter was cut short by Jaune's stomach rumbling.

"Let's celebrate! Hey, we should try the Hedgehog Meat Pie Mireille talked about," Ruby felt her stomach growl as well.

"Right, let's sell this stuff and grab some grub...ooh, hey, we should invite Aerith! We can pay her back for that meal!" Jaune shouted while throwing his hands up. A bit of blood spilled from his sword and landed on his pants.

"Um…maybe we should take a shower and clean our clothes too. I'm not used to blood splatter," Ruby grunted. She didn't think that she'd ever miss the Grimm, but them turning into ash made clean up much easier.


As night hit Sector 5 Ruby and Jaune were able to see the slums in the dark for the first time. It was so bright with all of the lights from the power the Shinra Company is providing. They couldn't help but think of Atlas a bit.

After selling the goods and stopping by to invite Aerith and her mother out eat at the restaurant Mireille recommended.

While they ate, they discussed their first job with a similar fashion that resembled their lives a Beacon. Sitting around, eating with friends, talking about slaying monsters. Though the monsters of Gaia were certainly different that the ones they were used to.

Aerith was more than happy that they succeeded on their first job. Now that they had some Gil to spend. She suggested a renting a room at a nearby inn where it's clean and affordable.

"Just tell them I sent you and they'll give you a discount," Aerith winked.

Of course, they trusted Aerith's wisdom and went with her choice. Hours before the night ended, they walked her back home and bid farewell to the florist.

While they waved goodbye, they walked back on the path back towards the Slums chatting about their experiences.

The conclusion they came to, was that all around, it was a nice start thanks to them meeting the florist.

Arriving at the inn they went to reception desk and gave the necessary amount. It was 30 Gil the night, but after mentioning Aerith sent them, the Clerk smiled happily and said, "Alight, 20Gil and not a Gil cheaper."

That was more than good for the two teenagers. However, there was a small problem, all the rooms for vacant, except one. Meaning they will have to share the only available room.

The Arc stared at Ruby before turning away his face while his cheeks turned cheery red. Sharing the room with a girl wasn't his idea, he could only hope that Yang understands their circumstances and forgive him.

A universe apart and angry Yang still scares him witless.

While Jaune was freaking out, the silver-eyed girl didn't seem to be bothered. However, her stomach was filled with butterflies for reasons unknown.

Opening the door, the room was exactly as they were expecting. The room was bit worn down, but the amount of living space was good, and the room was well cleaned.

With his eyes drifting across the room, Jaune saw that it was as he originally thought, there was only one bed and one bathroom.

"It'll have to do," Jaune said as he looked around, trying to avoid staring at Ruby.

"At least until we earn more money to buy a condo or a place of our own," Ruby said as she sat against the table in the small space by the door.

The blond immediately blushed as he noticed her crossing her legs, her very fit legs.

Jaune gulped and shook his head before saying, "You take the bed. I'm not going to let you sleep on the floor."

Jaune was brought up to act like a real gentleman. His mother taught him to always be kind and think of other first. This also included letting the girls have the bed when they went on trips and stayed at hotels. Of course, with 7 sisters, he almost never got to sleep on the bed, so he was used to it.

Ruby didn't seem to have a problem with sharing the bed with Jaune but, it was small.

It wasn't exactly five-star hotel they were staying in, so it made sense for the bed to only fit one person. Ruby looked at Jaune and saw his red face. For a moment, she thought he was sick or something, but decided to accept his offer.

"Tomorrow you can sleep on the bed, and I'll take the take the floor," The red reaper announced before flopping her head on the pillow.

Jaune was against the idea. His morals aligned with letting Ruby take the bed until they can buy a place of their own with separate rooms.

Even though they've been through a lot together and have known each other for over two years, Jaune couldn't see Ruby as just another comrade. That alone felt weird to him because he didn't have this same issue with Pyrrha or Nora.

"Why am I freaking out over sleeping in the same room with Ruby? I should just calm down and take it easy. Yeah, it'll get easier…" Jaune thought as he laid a spare blanket on the ground and laid back.

Without their nightwear, they slept in what in their Hunter's gear, thought Jaune did take of his armor. It wasn't comfortable but it would have to do for now.

And with that, they turned off the light and closed their eyes.


The days have passed as Ruby and Jaune were quickly getting used to their new job. They have been mostly helping the people of Sector 5 with their daily problems and any other issues their strength or wit could solve.

However, it wasn't always about fighting monsters. It was like the Arc said before; they will become a Jack of all Trades rather than regular mercenaries.

The duo had basically done everything within their power to earn them a decent reputation. Cleaning, weapon maintenance, painting, helping the kids of the orphanage with their studies and reading to them, aiding with construction, and giving Chocobos a bath.

The last one was Ruby's favorite. She has come to grow fond of the big yellow birds, and desperately wanted one for her own. Jaune had it just as bad, but he handled himself better. They were so cute, and fun to ride on as well. Which was an experience they paid for instead of taking the Gil for the job, an experience they loved with all their hearts.

The animals were so intelligent and kind towards those that were kind to it. The Hunters couldn't help but fall in love with them.

Mireille had become a regular customer of theirs. She constantly hired the Hunters, so Ruby and Jaune ended up fighting their fair share of monster that in turn helped them earn a decent paycheck.

In just one week of intensive labor, they managed to earn quite a lot of Gil, and a positive yet small reputation within the slums.

For once in their lives, everything was going well for the two Hunters.

Days later, they had come to the conclusion that they didn't need to stay at the inn anymore. With all the Gil they saved up, they were able to buy a small one floor apartment in the middle of the district with two rooms.

So now, Jaune and Ruby were officially roommates. Even with the Gil they earned, the two Hunters didn't stop working, learning more about the world with customer that hired them,

After settling into their apartment, the Hunters resumed their jobs, taking care of the people in the Slums, collecting bounties from criminals, and hunting monsters. Since money was no longer an issue, the two sometimes found themselves taking the jobs for free.

The image of the Slums even improved. It looked a bit less run down, a lot of the broken parts of buildings were patched to the point they couldn't tell it was damaged in the first place, and the Slums overall was much cleaner than before.

Turns out, Ruby's super speed had great applications for construction.

For the silver eyed reaper, the best thing that happened yet was that she sent their weapons in the shop in secrecy. When they were on a day off, Ruby snagged Jaune's sword and shield before rushing to the weapon shop so they can receive a nice upgrade.

It was easy for her to convince Jaune. Ruby knew the Arc was fine with leaving his weapons in her care because he trusted his partner. It also helped that he was at the orphanage doing a few errands, making it the perfect time for Ruby to enact her plan.

She gave the perfect excuse to Jaune, saying that she needed to give her baby maintenance before offering to have his weapons touched up and polished. Of course, Jaune bought it, hook, line, and sinker.

Once she was finished with the upgrade, her eyes were shining from the sheer excitement and at how awesome she is. Ruby couldn't wait for her blond partner to arrive and see this.

"Ruby? I'm back!"

"He's here!" the girl freaked out he arrived earlier than anticipated.

Using her Semblance, she quickly hid both weapons under her bed. Typical hiding spot, but she didn't have the time to play master sleuth.

"Are you in your room? Is it okay for me come inside?" Jaune asked after knocking.

Ruby made sure she stood in front of the hidden weapons before she said, "Sure, you're always welcome inside, silly!"

Yang in another universe: THAT'S WHAT SHE SAID!

The blond entered the room and saw the red cloak girl giving him a big cheesy smile. For as long as he has known Ruby, he could tell when something was up with the girl, and at the moment, Jaune's Ruby-Senses were tingling, letting him know that something was up with the petite reaper.

The smile she was wearing was more than forced, and he had seen it a hundred times on the faces of his sisters. That was the smile of someone trying to hide something from him.

He came in here to get Crocea Mors back, and the thought of her doing something to it that would upset him never crossed his mind. However, she kept up that smile, and it was starting to bug him.

That's when he noticed something is missing, two things to be exact.

"Where are our weapons?" Jaune asked like a parent that caught his child playing with something that didn't belong to them.

She giggled innocently and said, "Now, don't freak out."

Ruby then took the weapons out from under her bed and presented them.

Jaune raised an eyebrow why would she put them there, unless she was hiding them from him, "That's weird, why she would do that?"

"I gave Crescent Rose some maintenance like I said I would, and I did polish Crocea Mors too. But…I added something cool, something you're going to like a lot."

"Okay, you have my attention" the blond smiled.

"Since we'll be living in this world from now on, we might as well use their resources to our advantage."

The Arc saw her scythe and noticed three holes near the back of the blade. Two of the slots were connected while one was by its own.

Jaune's eyes then blinked widely as the petite handed him his sword and shield.

At the base of the blade was a piece of silver to blend in with the color of the blade. It had two interconnected holes and one on the base of the pommel. As for the shield, the connected slots were above his family symbol.

Honestly, Jaune didn't know what to think or say, but the words still came out, "Um...Ruby, what are these for?"

"For the Materia, duh! Don't you remember what Aerith said? Materia can be equipped to weapons or armor, giving the user the ability to use the knowledge stored within them. Meaning we can cast magic."

"Right, so the slots on the weapons are actually technological in nature…but what about Materi-"

"Right here! I bought them a while back," the red cloak reaper interrupted by pulling out seven Materia spheres from her bag.

"Guess I spoke too soon," Jaune chuckled.

The blond knight looked at all of the Materia laid out before him. The spheres were green, so Jaune understood that they were elemental magic.

Aerith also told them about the colors of Materia and the abilities they possess during her long winded explanation about this world.

"You forgot to mention Materia can also be equipped to armor," Jaune commented while pointing at his chest plate.

"Drat, I knew I forgot something" she started looking at her outfit" too late to put any Materia slots in it, same for you."

"I'm sure we can buy new clothes that already have them."

"That's a great idea! Let's go!" Ruby shouted as she looked at his armor with a shine in her eyes.

"Not right now. We're supposed to help Aerith sell flowers at the city, remember? She should be arriving within the hour," Jaune informed as he covered his chest piece.

Ruby gave a nod as she gazed at the green Materia she bought before saying, "Well…now that you're here, we can discuss what kind of Materia we're going to set to our weapons."

"What about our summoning Materia?" Jaune asked.

"Didn't Aerith say they're dormant? If they're sleeping, we can't use their power, so we can't summon them. I think we should continue to hold on to them before equipping them."

"She also said fighting might help awake the summons," Jaune added.

"So which ones will you be equipping? The guy from the shop said that they're marked as the following, Fire, Ice, Lightning, Wind, Water, Poison and Restore."

"Hmm...I will go with Lightning, Ice, Poison and Restore. If that's okay with you," Jaune said as he picked up the Restoration Materia.

"That sounds good to me. I'll take the rest," Ruby aid as she put the fire, wind, and water Materia into Crescent Rose before they suddenly gave a quick glow.

Figuring that it must be a sign that it works and they're ready for use, Ruby was so excited and couldn't wait to test them.

Jaune did the same putting lightning and ice on the sword then poison and healing on the shield. The four spheres gave a quick glow, signaling their readiness to use.

Their weapons were ready and set.

"Ruby, Jaune I'm here!" Aerith called out from behind their apartment door.

"Right on time," Jaune said as he looked at the clock.

They sheathed their new equipped Materia weapons before leaving the reaper's room, and then quickly headed towards the front door with vibrant smiles on their face.

When they opened it, Aerith stood in front of the duo with her bright smile while holding three baskets filled with flowers of all kinds.

"Aerith!" Ruby shouted as she hugged her friend.

"Well, what's the plan, Pinky?" Jaune said as he crossed his arms and leaned against the door frame.

"You guys did promise to help me sell flowers on topside, so let's start with that," Aerith chuckled before Ruby let go.

"Sure, let's go. Wouldn't want to keep the good people of Midgar from getting the high-quality flowers they oh so deserve," followed the Arc.

"YAY, I've been wanting to go to the city for so long now," Ruby gushed as she ran in place.

"Well, walking would be too much, so need to take the train to get there. We're going to the station," Aerith said as she pumped her fists.

The trio walked the streets seeing people chattering, the birds were singing, and the kids playing.

Ruby and Jaune were actually very productive workers during the last week. With all the clean-ups, repairs, and odd jobs they've taken, the Slums has slowly been improving their appearance.

The duo of Hunters slowly got used to living in the slums. Even if it doesn't excel when it comes to appearance, it's the people and the maintenance the Mercenaries worked their butts off to complete made it a much livelier place to be and live in.

There was less crime, the houses were in better conditions, and they didn't have a single monster invasion since Ruby and Jaune started working.

However, the further they leave the urban area, the more likely it was for monsters to appear any given moment.

After hunting them for more than a week, the two heroes from another world learned that there will always be some creepy crawlies prowling about or hiding in wait for the right opportunity to attack.

Noises were heard as monsters have emerged from a large pile of junk.

A single Gorger appeared. It was a biological-type creature that looked like a strange worm-scorpion with teeth in a gaping mouth, scythe-like legs, and a scorpion stinger.

Next to it was a Smogger, a machine type monster that looked like a bunch of pipes that were fused together in a haphazardly manner.

Lastly, another biological type appeared, Venomantis; a gross looking half slug, half insect monster. It had scythe-like arms, fat slimy bellies, barbed narrow beaks, and a scorpion stinger at the end of its tail.

Ruby and Jaune grinned. This was the perfect chance to test out their new Materia. They drew their weapons and took the front guard while Aerith stood at their backs.

Both Hunters gave each other a smirk before they charged at their foes.

As soon as they engaged the creatures, they could feel a power within them that was different than their Auras.

Ruby continued to feel the knowledge from within the Materia telling them how to use it before she changed Crescent Rose to her rifle form and released a fire spell alongside the bullet. The bolt off fire slammed into the Gorger, killing it with a single bullet that ripped into its open maw and shot out the creature's backside.

"Looks like the worm thingy is weak against fire," Ruby said as she blew away the smoke from Crescent Rose's barrel.

Jaune used the Lightning Materia slotted in his sword to unleash a bolt of electricity on the Smogger. Since it's a machine, it was very weak against the lightning element, causing the bolt to make the creature malfunction and explode.

The Venomantis charged at the Arc, but before it could get within 3 feet of him, the monster was hit by a couple of rays of magic.

The silver eyed girl turned to see Aerith holding a long silver staff. The florist then moved her rod, causing it to release more rays of magic.

Aerith's attack slammed against the monster again, taking out the creature in an explosive mess of green guts and goo.

Both teenagers should have been surprised that they were able to cast magic on their first try, but it was actually the young florist that they once thought was defenseless, ended up surprising them the most.

"Guess I forgot to mention I can fight too, sorry" she smiled as she pressed a button on the staff, making it collapse into itself so that it could fit inside her flower basket.

"That's great, thanks for the assist," was all the Arc could say while giving her a thumbs up.

"You're…that…So coooool! I mean, we were cool too, but you shot lasers! Freaking lasers! How did it come out of a regular collapsible staff! What Materia did that? Is it tech from the staff? Or maybe a certain Materia combination?" followed the red reaper with her barrage of questions.

In response to Ruby boasting for her, the green-eyed florist only smiled even more. She didn't mind lending a hand to her friends, and the compliments weren't too bad either.


It took around an hour and a half for the trio to arrive to the heart of Midgar. The train ride was a comfortable experience for the pair of Hunters. At least this time, they didn't have to worry about being attacked by Grimm and separated.

As they passed through the tunnel of the city expressway, they noticed that the station was even bigger than the ones in the slums and the number of people walking about was in the hundreds.

They were in awe at the sight, tall buildings, elegant houses, fancy vehicles, five stars hotel and restaurants.

Jaune was wondering what it would cost to rent an apartment in this place while Ruby was thinking of the weapon shops they must have here.

This topside of Midgar reminded them of Atlas. There was similar high technology vehicles, appliances, and even similar holographic screens that existed everywhere in their world.

No matter where they went, there was one constant phrase that was on almost sign or broadcast. It was the sign of the Shinra Power Company. It was on billboards, commercials, public and personal transportation, and even on some buildings.

Jaune figured it was to be expected since the company is the reason Midgar has become this high-tech.

Up here, many people have jobs and apparently, wealthy incomes. The difference between the slums and what they were seeing now was like day and night.

It didn't take them long to figure out that they were where the middle and upper class resides.

Jaune started thinking what Aerith told them in their history lesson of this world. The Shinra Company managed to control the power of Mako into electrical energy, and by tapping into the wells of power beneath the earth, they can provide electrical power throughout all of the communities in this massive city.

It was impressive to the Arc, but when he thought more on the subject, he realized that the same Mako that comes from the planet was nothing more than just a part of the Life Stream.

"If the reactors keep taking Mako nonstop, then isn't there a possibility that it might ran out someday. If that's true, then the planet really is dying. It just like Aerith's mother said, this world is on the brink of destruction and Shinra are the ones who will bring it to its eventual end."

"Jaune are you okay?" Ruby asked as she saw him deep in thought.

"If Mako isn't an infinite supply of energy, then the death of the planet is inevitable. Yes, this has to be it, this is the reason why Ruby and I were sent here. We have to save the planet from the company along with protecting the florist, also known as the last Cetra," The blond snapped back from his thoughts by the silver eyed girl when she literally snapped her fingers in front of his face.

"Hey, vomit boy! Anyone in there?"

Jaune frowned and said, "You said you wouldn't call me that anymore," Jaune huffed.

"Vomit boy?" Aerith grinned, extremely interested in the story behind the nick name.

"He puked on my sister's boots before we ever even introduced ourselves," Ruby chuckled.

"I used to get air-sick…I haven't had much issue with it since my Training in Atlas…I can still remember Ironwood's methods to get over it," Jaune said as he thought of him being repeatedly thrown out of a Bullhead.

"That's kind of funny," Aerith chuckled, "But doesn't Vomit Knight fit his current appearance better."

"Oh my gosh, yes!" Ruby laughed.

"Ruby, no!" Jaune cried.

"Ruby, yes!" Ruby continued to laugh harder at the blonde's expense.

As upset as he was, Jaune was actually kind of glad to see Ruby laughing like this again. It finally felt like they were setting down roots in this world.

"Well, we're here," Aerith said as she reached a central hub for foot traffic.

"Right, let's get to work!" Jaune said as he pumped his fists, "And never mention Vomit Boy or Knight, or any other iteration of the phrase."

"Alright, but you weren't responding to anything else. What were you thinking about?" Ruby asked with a set of curious silver eyes.

"I was thinking of our future. You might be better at short term plan, we're about even with coming up with plans on the fly, and you know I'm better at the long term stuff," Jaune lifted a brow.

Ruby whistled and smiled before saying, "Thanks for all the hard work Vomit Knight, but we have work to do!"

"Ruby!" Jaune huffed as she ran off giggling.

Aerith chuckled as well before telling them a few tips on how to earn Gil, "First, to go to the corners where foot traffic is highest, but make sure not to go too far away from each other. Then, approach people when they get close to you and give them a smile."

The Hunters nodded their heads and wrote down notes as Aerith continued speaking, "Use kind words and praise their appearances to try and convince them that they should be interested in buying a flower because it improver their already spectacular looks, and lastly, really nail this one in, a flower cost 10 Gil, and that it's a really cheap price. Make sure to highlight the cheap part."

"What are the prime targets?" Ruby asked as she looked up from the note pad.

"Usually our biggest buyers are those with their loved ones, or when they have special someone, and they haven't revealed their feelings yet, so if you spot them, try to take advantage of that. Now get out there and earn me some money!"

Both teens nodded in understanding as they took a basket each.

We've been doing a great so far with their other jobs let's see if we have what it takes to be top florists," Jaune chuckled.

"Ruby Rose, master florist, coming at ya!" Ruby followed up.

While the two Hunters hit the streets and corners, they kept seeing the people with their highly expensive clothing walking by.

They offered their most sincere smile showing them the basket flowers and using all of Aerith's tips, but it didn't work. They were being ignored, and it wasn't just chance either, it happened more than ten times.

Jaune looked back at the pink-themed florist and though Aerith made it look easy. She has already managed to sell another flower to an older gentlemen without even trying.

They hadn't had any luck thus far, but they were doing their best to at least sell one or two flowers at a cheaper price. Seriously, they were trying to be very generous.

*Greetings citizens of Midgar.*

The blond and silver eyed girl turned to see one of the holographic screens showing a man in his late thirties with dark blond hair, eyes, a blond goatee, and was wearing a dark pinstripe suit with a red tie.

*We in Shinra are always looking out for each and every one of you. Our vision remains the same and has remained the same for the past hundred years, to provide you with the best in latest technology and better welfare, to continue bringing better ways to live, better safety, better transportation, and a better roof over your head. With Mako energy by our side we're heading into a brighter future. Never forget you are the reason we work so hard. Remember the Shinra Electric Power Company is here by the people, for the people. Let's keep going forward and resume making your dreams a reality!*

That was a very inspiring speech. This guy was very good with his words. If Jaune didn't know any better, he would have believed in him and what Shinra stands for.

But it they knew that wasn't the case.

Jaune was beginning to understand just what they were up against. This biggest problem they would have to face was majority of the people and supporters the power company had. Worse off, there was barely anyone against it or understood what Mako really was.

However, it was good to know that they weren't alone in their endeavors. Aerith informed them about a rebel group that is constantly going against Shinra and fighting for the planet. They call themselves Avalanche, and apparently, they're not fond of the company.

Avalanche claimed that the repetitive usage of Mako would kill the planet eventually, and Shinra was doing was speeding by unfathomable proportions.

That's how Ruby and Jaune saw it too. If they were sent here to save this world, then they will have to put a stop to this company somehow.

"Easier said than done when Shinra has so many people defending them," Jaune mumbled. He has been giving this situation a lot of thought, and he was starting to wonder if they should seek this rebel group to seek out a partnership.

Jaune wasn't sure what Ruby's thoughts were on all of this, because he still hasn't talk to her about the topic that was causing him so much hassle.


The time passed, and Jaune stayed in his head through most of the job. However, it looked like Ruby was selling flowers just as well like Aerith.

The petite reaper was giving the sad puppy face instead of a pretty smile, and it was working great too. There was no way he'd be able to compete with that. So, Jaune kept on walking around and offering smiles to the people that passed him by.

A couple of hours later, the green-eyed florist called the two back and said that they have done enough for the day.

The Arc was shocked that the red cloak girl's basket was almost empty with only six flowers left. Aerith had around twelve left, and as for the blond, he didn't want to look at his basket because he didn't sell a single one.

After they were done with work, the young Ancient decided to take the teens on a small tour through the upper city before it got too dark to explore.

It was their first time here, so Aerith wanted to show them the best places.

Ruby almost leaped in joy, she was already dying to see the weapon shops as she mumbled, "They must have high quality types, the real deal."

"And today's winner is...Ruby! Who sold twenty flowers for a total of 200 Gil!" cheered Aerith while holding the Red Reaper's arm in the air.

"I can't help it if I was blessed with the cutest and saddest puppy eyes ever!" the reaper said proudly.

"And my wallet thanks you for being born with such a gift," Aerith said as she high fived Ruby.

Jaune rolled his eyes, though he couldn't help but admit that it was true. He bet Yang or her dad would fall victim by them. As for himself, he'd say that he's resistant thanks to seven sisters pulling the same stunt whenever they wanted something from him, but there was something special about Ruby's pout, not even Jaune could say no to that face.

And thus began the tale of the two shopping maniacs and the master mule Jaune Arc.

By the time they got back to Sector 5, it was already dark. They had seen enough in the upper city, and it was truly the place for the rich and wealthy to live.

Too bad he didn't do well getting third place, Ruby got a free ice cream while he got to watch her eat it.

Jaune was tired from walking so much. Several times he caught himself staring at the expensive hotels and inns up there. He was constantly dreaming about sleeping on the soft beds and all the room service while he lugged around all their purchased items.

Still, he wouldn't replace his and Ruby's apartment for anything. It meant more to them since they both bought it with their hard earned Gil.

Jaune came to the conclusion that his home is in the slums with Ruby, not some fancy city.

His thoughts returned to the fact that he shouldn't ignore all the people that live there, "They're happy and it's all thanks to the Shinra Company. If we take them on, we'll become the enemies of everyone on the upper plates. Heck, we might piss off everyone in Midgar."

Giving a quick glance at the silver eyed girl, he sighed while thinking that he really needed to talk to her.

Jaune kept trying to think about how to bring the up topic, "When we get home, I'll speak with her about all this. If the planet is dying, then it's up to us to do something about it. The easiest way to do that is spread awareness and try to end the Shinra Company."

Aerith mistook his long silence for him being depressed. So, to perk the resident knight up, she smiled and said, "Don't feel bad Jaune, you did your best, and that's what really counts."

"I don't think I'm cut out to be a florist. I didn't even sell a single one."

"They prefer girls over guys" Ruby giggled.

"That's one of the reasons," Jaune lifted his brow.

"It doesn't matter. You both did great and I'm happy you helped me. So, thank you very much," Aerith said happily.

As they were well along their way to escorting Aerith to her house, they discovered that there was someone standing in their way.

He was tall man in his early thirties, bald, wearing shades and earrings, and had a goatee that almost reached to his ears. The mysterious man was wearing a black suit, black leather gloves and black business shoes.

"Looks like he was waiting for someone," Jaune thought before Aerith reacted seeing him.

"I guessed it wouldn't be long before one of them will show up," Aerith waved her hand at Rude.

Jaune and Ruby thought the guy looked out of place, like he belongs in the topside or a richer district. His clothes were a dead giveaway.

"Just what is a guy like that doing here?" Ruby wondered when the pink-themed florist stopped them and signaled for them to do the same.

"It's a little late to be here, don't you think so, Rude?" Aerith questioned the Turk.

Both teenagers suddenly thought, "So, she does she know him."

"Sorry, just keeping an eye on you. It's part of our monthly visit," Rude said with a blunt tone.

"You could have done it in the morning. Don't tell me Reno's slacking off," Aerith smiled gently before giving a chuckle.

"Something like that," Rude muttered while adjusting his shades.

"It's the middle of the night…" Ruby commented.

"I know, right? He probably thinks it makes him look cool, I had a sunglasses phase when I was kid," Jaune followed up.

"I know what you mean, I used to steal my sister's aviators and wear them inside the house all the time," Ruby giggled.

"Snort…Well, as you can see… snicker…I'm okay and I'm tired after a hard day's work. Hehe…I'm heading to my house now," Aerith said while tried to hold back her laughs.

"And these two?" the man in the suit pointed to the people accompanying her. He tried to hide it, and would never admit it, but he was a bit embarrassed by their comments.

"They're my friends. They were helping me sell flowers. Is there a problem?"

"No, not at all," Rude said with another simple and direct tone to his voice.

"Let me introduce you to them, this is Jaune, and this is Ruby." Aerith said as she patted her friends on the shoulders.

"Nice to meet you sir," the Arc kept a straight face as he held out his hand for him to shake. However, he was ignored.

"Are you Aerith's dad?" asked the silver eyed girl to bail out her buddy.

The florist burst out laughing while Rude cleared his throat. Not wanting to comment on that, he thought, "Do I really look that old?"

"Ruby has such a great sense of humor, isn't she great?" Aerith gave the petite a quick hug.

"I'll be on my way then," Rude started leaving.

"Would you like a cup of tea now that you're here? We're not that far from my house" offered the young woman.

"That's all right. Maybe next time," the Turk in the suit excused himself before walking off towards the slums.

"Who was that guy?" asked Jaune waiting that he was out of sight.

"His name is Rude. You can call him sort of a friend," Aerith said with a perplexed expression.

"I thought he could have been your dad. My bad," Ruby stuck her tongue out and hit her head.

"It's fine! You made me laugh, so I don't mind," Aerith said as she chuckled again.

"What was he doing here?" asked the blond.

"Like he said, Rude is keeping an eye on me," Aerith said as she started walking down the path towards her house.

"Why?" Ruby asked with a worried expression.

"He's a member of the Turks, they work for Shinra," Aerith confessed as she looked at the stars above her.

"Wait, does that mean they know you're an Ancient?" Jaune was shocked.

"Yes. I'm supposed to go with them willingly for some reason. However, it's pretty clear to see that I have no intention of going along with them or helping Shinra with anything," Aerith smiled, but for the first time since they met her, they could see a look of sorrow on her face.

"I don't get it. Wouldn't it be better if they kidnap you?" asked Ruby.

"If you want, we can beat that guy up if he comes back again," Jaune said while Ruby nodded her head in agreement.

"Heheh! Thanks, but I'll pass on the offer. I'll give you the details about the Turks later. Well...I'll be on my way now. See you tomorrow, and thanks for all the help today!" Aerith ran off. The Hunters from another world could tell by her body language that she was happy again.

"Should we be worried? They know the truth about her?" Ruby asked.

"I think we should worry. But at least this gives us better reason to stay by her side all the time," Jaune looked back at the Turk walking ahead of them.


Ruby stood sleeping soundly until something came at her going beyond just fast.

The being covered in shadow grabbed her by the throat and started pushing her to the wall of her room.

Silver eyed widened in horror as she was staring at the person choking her with her Grimm arm. It was Cinder Fall, alive and well.

The villain was grinning with a sadistic expression while her visible eye had the golden flame of the Fall Maiden.

Ruby tried to break free, but the woman's strength was too much for her. There was no contest, Cinder completely overpowered her. The silver eyed girl couldn't even scream for help.

Thinking quickly, she used her semblance, escaping in a puff of rose petals, but received a sword to the back the moment she rematerialized.

The petite fell to the ground as the Maiden's blade has pierced her skin, staining the floor with blood. The poor girl was trembling as she thought, "It's happening again. I'm going to die."

Hearing the evil chuckling of the woman while she stretched her Grimm arm and grabbed hold of her, was too much for the petite reaper to listen to.

Ruby was now in tears, and all she could think was that she wished she had her weapon.

Staring into the fiery eyes of the mad woman, Cinder began to speak, "You will never get rid of me. I will always find you, and Jaune will be next."

"NO!"

Ruby woke up with startle, her face filled with sweat. Her red sleeveless shirt and long black night pants was soaked with perspiration.

Ruby took large gulps of air while gazing at her room.

"There's no one here…what a horrible dream," Ruby said as tears started to fill her eyes.

"RUBY!"

The red reaper jumped as she heard Jaune's voice shouting out from the other side of the wall.

Ruby's eyes widened as she saw her room suddenly being flooded with the same ghost that surrounded them in the curch. The hooded spirits were back, circling all over her room, and creeping her the fuck out.

The door slammed opened as the Arc arrived in his pajamas. He was wearing tight fitting white shirt with blue boxer briefs.

Without worrying for his own safety, Jaune went straight to the petite reaper's aid. He embraced her trying to protect her from the ghosts while thinking about what they were and what they wanted with them.

However, instead of being attacked, or possessed, the specters were still circling around them harmlessly. It was the same pattern they saw in church.

"JUST LEAVE US ALONE!" Jaune shouted as his Aura flared up.

As if they were obeying him, the hooded ghosts vanished in an instant, leaving them alone in the room...in their nightwear…hugging each other.

Ruby was sobbing while the blond was holding her tight.

The Ruby he used to know would never cry like this. Ever since they came here, she's become even more emotional. However, Jaune understood just as well as she did. Death changes a person.

He patted her back and said, "Just let it out,"

Ruby did. She cried and cried until there was nothing left in her body to cry anymore.

"There was no need to put on a tough front. Besides, crying makes people stronger. It's how they handle their situations and move on," Jaune said as his fingers traced the back of her head, running it through the reaper's black and red locks.

The Huntress lost herself in Jaune's warmth, wrapping her arms around the Arc while she cried into his firm chest.

Sadly, Ruby felt like pouting when he broke the hug and stared at her tear covered face.

Jaune dried them with his hands while taking a better look at the petite.

"It's okay, they're gone…." Jaune said with a gentle smile.

"I dreamed...Cinder…."

"Shhh...It's all right she's not real. and I'm right here with you." Jaune held her close again.

"It felt so real I….hic…"

"We'll get stronger, so strong that not even Cinder can stop us. I promise you." Jaune said as he felt her looking up at him.

"Together?" Ruby asked as her tear-filled eyes locked on to his baby blues.

"Together."


So, that's chapter 2. Working on 3 right now. Let me know what you think in the review section.