Zoro was happy, he was content to live his life with his wife teaching at his sword school. Having achieved his dream he was happy to help raise the next generation of dreamers in this little village his crew had founded after getting the one piece and seeing all their dreams achieved. And so he did live his life happy all the way until the end for death comes for all of us eventually. When it came for Zoro you would think this would be the end for our favorite swordsman but that would be boring and Zoro was never boring.
When he died he was brought before death and unlike most people he was not quickly sorted into the afterlife no that would be boring and Zoro was never boring. Death presents to him two choices he can stay dead or he can becomes deaths champion. Death explains to him what being his champion would entail including going to other worlds where death has been made mad and setting things right. He is told that after he dies in each world he is sent to he would be presented this choice. He is told he can take one object from himself and one thing from the people on a list provided. When he asks what he gets in return he is told that everyone he ever loved or loves in the future would be guaranteed paradise after they have died. This is something he knows he must accept for some of his loved ones must be destined for damnation.
After accepting he is taken to a side room where he is given his first assignment. This assignment is the world of Remnant. There are two people that have been evading death for far to long. Their names are Salem and Ozma. He is explained that one reincarnates when he dies this wouldn't be a problem if he didn't retain everything from all his precious lives, while the other is a semi undead who creates monsters that plague the world. He is told she wishes for death but that it can not come to her because some asshole cursed her. After getting a basic rundown of the world he will heading to he is allowed to head to the "armory".
It's here that is told to choose what he wants to take from his life forward and after being assured that his skills and muscle memory would be there as would his memory he decides to ask for Wado Ichimori only to be told that that item has been selected by a different champion and he must choose another. So he decides to ask for Enma this he is granted. He then is presented a list of names he can choose either skills, abilities, weapons, or items from. This list features some unexpected names. The list was: Chopper, Nami, Kaidou, Jimbei, Robin.
From Robin he chooses her intelligence knowing he will need it in a new world. From Chopper he chooses his medical expertise as that's always handy. From Nami he chooses a sense of direction he will need to know where to head in this new world. Kaidou he takes his durability as strong as Zoro is he can always use more defense. Jimbei he takes his mastery of fishman karate hoping to never need it but wanting to be ready just in case. With these selections made he feels a surge of power through him and he is taken to yet another room. In here he is told that he will be keeping his name but that he will be dropped into this world at age 6 the same age he left his world behind. He would do this while retaining all of his scars as they where a part of his history and history can not simply be erased.
He wakes up to find himself in an orphanage on Patch. He is alone in the room with his sword. When he walks out he is greeted by the man who runs the orphanage. He explains that Zoro was found was found wandering around the forest with nothing but the clothes on his back and his sword. He was delivered here so that he could be watched while the authorities try to find his parents but that would be easier if they had a name for him. Zoro explains his parents are dead (easier this way he thinks) and that his name is Zoro and the sword is a family heirloom and he would like to keep it. Zoro is escorted to breakfast and after eating asks if there is anywhere he can train. He is informed that is impossible especially for someone so young. This makes Zoro mad but he contains his anger knowing it would be best to cooperate for now and leave that night.
After leaving that night much like his last lifetime he traveled the world looking for new fighters to challenge knowing he had to be stronger if he was ever going to defeat those he was sent to defeat. It is through these battles that he first meets Qrow and when Qrow mentions he is about the right age to go to Signal academy a feeder school for Beacon that Zoro's life changes. He gets more information from Qrow who as a teacher knows all about it and guarantees the kid a spot if he wants it. Zoro accepts knowing that Beacon was where Ozpin was and he would need to know more about this man if he was ever to challenge him. That is how Zoro ended up at Signal with two very strange sisters.
Zoro walks in to signal academy on the first day of school as far as anyone knows he is 13. Upon entering for orientation he quickly realizes he is the only student here with weapons. Not that this bothers him but he is aware of this. He decides to sit off to the side and watch the people coming in to determine if any are worth his time. Its while he is doing this that he is approached by a blonde who looks like she is wise beyond her years but trying to hide that fact.
Yang "Nice sword. Family heirloom or something?"
Zoro "or something. Thanks I work hard to keep it sharp."
Yang "I'm Yang by the way I live here in Patch. What about you? What about you where are you from?"
Zoro "My name is Zoro and I am from nowhere though I spent some time here in Patch growing up." He says this in a tone that says not to ask any further.
Yang "Nice to meet you Zoro, what brought you here? I am here because I like to fight and this is a legal way to do that."
Zoro smiles at that "One of the teachers here actually invited me himself after we fought"
Yang can't believe what she just heard fighting a teacher at his age he must be crazy or something "Any idea who it was? That's awesome we should spar some time I mean if your good enough to fight a teacher you must be good enough to fight me."
Zoro "Someone named Qrow or something like that not really sure. I suppose I could go for a spar or something sometime."
Yang can't believe what she just heard this guy fought uncle Qrow and came out with enough respect to be invited personally here. She will have to ask her uncle about this young man. At this orientation begins everyone is given their schedule and the addresses to the boarder they will be staying with if they are not local. Signal has no dorms you see so they ask people from the community to put up various students for either the whole time or term by term. It just so happens that Zoro is set to be rooming with the Xiao Longs.
After being dismissed Yang asks who he is staying with and when he tells her she says that is her family and she can show him the way if he wants. He agrees as he has no idea where anything here is. When they get there Yang asks when the rest of his stuff is set to arrive so they can go pick it up.
Zoro "Everything I own in this lifetime is here in this bag. I have no need of much."
Yang frowns when she hears that thinking this kid must have had it rough to only have a small bag of belongings but she doesn't comment. "Alright then don't be surprised if you leave here with more than just that bag."
Zoro smiles feeling for the first time in this life that warms that always came when he was with his captain. They go inside and find Tai and Ruby at the table eating cookies. When they hear the door open Ruby uses her semblance to rush over to Yang and give her a big hug and welcome her home. She then see's who is with her and she tries to hide herself in her cape. Tai walks over and greets them offering them cookies which Zoro accepts.
Tai takes them into the living room to go over rules seeing as how he usually gets girls this is his first time doing this.
Tai "Rule number 1 you can't go into the girls rooms. Rule 2 you have to have pants on at all times unless in the shower. Rule 3 if you hurt my daughters I will kill you. Do you have any problems with these rules?"
Zoro "No issues for me where will I be staying?"
Tai shows him to his bedroom explains the bathroom is down the hall and if he needs anything to go ahead and ask. Zoro thanks the man and asks where he could train sword body and mind. Tai takes him out back.
Tai "I don't know about mind but out here you should be able to train that sword of yours and most definitely the body this is where we train your welcome to join us anytime."
Zoro nods "I may take you up on that but I want to assess you before I commit to anything the last training partner I had it didn't work out well"
Tai "I can understand that not wanting to put yourself in a situation where you'll get hurt outside of school."
Zoro "You misunderstand we where to unevenly matched and I ended up hurting him though what he was doing with me I could not tell you. Seeing as he was a full huntsman and I was perhaps 10"
This catches everyone by surprise, he was training with a full huntsman at 10 and was so beyond them he hurt them.
Tai "Well that makes sense as well. New rule no sparring with my daughters without myself or Qrow present."
Zoro "Does Qrow frequent here he was a fun fight I would like to fight him again? I can accept that rule."
Tai "You fought Qrow already that would explain why you got roomed with me. He is the kids Uncle and stays here most nights during the school year."
Zoro "Yeah it was how I got into Signal in the first place, he basically dragged me here and enrolled me. That's good to know."
They go back inside and have a nice evening together getting to know each other. More Zoro learning about them as he is like trying to get water from a rock when he doesn't want to talk.
That next morning Zoro gets up with the sun as is his custom and makes his way to the training yard to begin his daily training regime. This body is no where near as strong as he was at his peak but knowing what he knows now he believes he can be even stronger. He begins by chopping down one of the bigger trees in the yard and begins his workout. After a few hours he notices he has company he had kept his Haki attuned for Grimm but not people. He puts the tree down wipes his brow with his shirt and stares at everyone with a curious gaze.
Zoro "what are you staring for?"
Yang "How long have you been out here? We are staring because we went to wake you for breakfast and couldn't find you only for you to be out here benching a tree like it was nothing."
Zoro "I don't know since I got up this morning about the same time as the sun I guess. Yeah I forgot to ask if you had weights yesterday so I improvised though it's a touch light so I had to increase reps to make up for it."
Tai can't believe what he just heard that tree weighs 1000 pounds and its to light this boy must be crazy. "breakfast is ready come inside and eat."
They retreat inside for pancakes. While they are eating Ruby can't seem to take her eyes off his sword not because its complex but rather because its simple and beautiful. Zoro notices this and issues a stern warning to Ruby.
Zoro "This sword is cursed if it deems you unworthy it will drain all your life essence and leave you a dry husk. Even if it finds you worthy it is overzealous when it cuts unless you tame it it will cut far more than you intend. So please little one I ask you do not touch this sword I have seen it take far to many people I do not wish it to take you as well."
Everyone hears this and the reaction is mixed. Ruby is terrified and tries to hide under her hood hoping that he won't see her. Yang is angry that he would say such things to her sister. Tai is angry because he doesn't believe Zoro and thinks he is making it up to scare his girls.
Tai "Remember our rules Zoro no hurting my girls, that includes fancy stories about cursed swords that kill people." He is not doing a great job of hiding his anger
Zoro "Your rules are why I mentioned it at all. Would you like to follow me outside and I can show you what I mean?"
Tai thinks this is a grand idea if for no other reason than to perhaps set Ruby's worries at ease. They go out back.
Zoro "I will pull the sword without exerting my full will upon it. Watch for I will only do this once it does not feel good." He grabs his sword and as soon as it comes out of its sheath his arms turns black and begins loosing muscle definition and mass. Once he is satisfied they have seen the effects he excerpts full control and his arm is restored.
Tai "got it no one touches that sword rule 5. Rule 6 it never leaves your side am I clear on that?"
Zoro "I can abide those rules for now someday your daughters might prove worthy of the sword though and if that happens they will be safe."
After breakfast and that explanation Yang and Zoro get ready for class. They head out together and Yang normally one to talk your ear off is oddly quite this suited Zoro just fine as he prefers the quite. About half way to school Yang stops and turns to look at Zoro
Yang "How did you become so strong at your age?" she asks this almost afraid of the answer but at the same time needing to hear it.
Zoro "I decided once when I was young that I was going to be the best, I am not there yet but I will be one day and so to that end I have to be more than simply human I must become invincible. So I train every day all day and I push myself beyond my limits."
Yang goes quite for a spell processing what he just said. "Do you believe I could become invincible as well?" she asks in a lower tone just above a whisper
Zoro hears it "That I don't know you need conviction but more than that you need something to focus on something that you alone are willing to give everything for. If you have that then you can become more than just a person and you will have began the path towards invincibility."
Yang has a lot to think about and so they finish their walk in silence. When they get to school they have combat class first so they walk to where they will be having that. When they get there they see a bunch of students already sitting chatting. The teacher calls for everyone to quite down so they can begin. They are paired off based off of the fighting style of their choice. This of course means that Yang and Zoro are not paired up.
Zoro gets this kid who looks like he has never held a sword before while Yang gets a supremely confident kid. Zoro knows his fight will be over fast and so decides to watch Yangs as she interests him. When instructed the fights begin and as Zoro expected he dispatches his foe in one move all without having to even look at him. Yang's fight is going well she is going blow for blow with her opponent though he can tell her opponent will win eventually as she lacks stamina. His prediction comes true not 5 minutes later as Yang ends up loosing.
The teacher after watching all the spars begins to breakdown each fight. He begins with Zoro, your form is unique I have never seen someone use that style before but you use it well and you have the utmost confidence in it. I would like to see you in a prolonged fight to better judge where we can improve you. He runs through the rest of the students before finally getting to Yang. You fight like your father I can see his influence in your style, you let your emotions guide you to much though remember to keep your head and fight smart, you cant win every fight by simply punching through it. Yang takes the feedback and is immediately self conscious as these are the same things she has been told her whole life.
The rest of the day progresses and after school on their way home Zoro asks her a simple question that could change everything. "Do you want me to help train you?"
Yang has to think about this "Why are you offering it to me? Is it because of what the teacher said because if it is I don't need charity." She replies gruffly
Zoro "What he said was right but no my offer is not because of what he said but rather because of what I saw and the fact that we are living together it simply makes sense."
Yang "Well in that case that does make sense I will have to take you up on your offer."
Zoro "If you want when we get back we can spar I will only use hand to hand and I'll see what I can teach you."
Yang "That would be wonderful. The only teacher I have ever had is my dad and well he only knows how to do one thing."
When they arrive home they grab a bite to eat and the Yang changes so they can go spar. She tells her dad and sister about the plan while Zoro takes his sword and looks for somewhere to store it where it wont be disturbed during the spar. He eventually decides that he will ask Tai to hold and or watch it while he and Yang spar. When he sees everyone walking out the back door he waits until everyone is there before walking up to Tai.
Zoro "I know we have a rule about me having the sword at all times but it would be best if when me and Yang are sparring I do not have it so that I do not so much as think about using it. As such I would ask that you be in charge of it while we are sparring. So long as it is not drawn it will not effect you."
Tai is at first startled by this ask but understands the logic of it and agrees.
Zoro and Yang take their places opposite each other and the fight begins. Zoro quickly decides that he wants this to drag on for as long as he can so he plays defense only striking when he no other choice but never letting her make contact within his guard. This goes on until Yang simply can't stay on her feet any more and collapses from exhaustion after about an hour. Zoro helps her up and congratulates her on taking her first step towards becoming better.
They all go inside and have dinner and after dinner they stay up and talk some more Zoro is opening up somewhat with these people though still keeps his secrets.
That next morning Zoro wakes up and heads back to the backyard to do his weight training. After about an hour or so he looks up see that he is not alone but Yang is there and she looks determined but a bit confused as to where to start. Upon seeing this Zoro smiles.
He walks over to Yang "You look like you are a bit confused. Do you want me to direct you where to start?"
Yang nods and so Zoro directs over to the pile of rocks he set aside. He walks her through the next section of training he is doing and has her simply join in with him. She initially tries the same amount of weight he is using only to realize she can barely carry the weight let alone do anything with it. They continue on in relative silence Zoro only talking when he has something new to explain or to correct her. After they finish up its off to breakfast and then class.
This is how the first 6 months of life on Patch goes for Zoro. He wakes up begins training he is regularly joined by Yang, after that they do breakfast and then off to class. After they get home it's a quick snack and a change of clothes and chores then teaching Yang advanced hand to hand until dinner. After dinner the family hangs out for a bit before Zoro retires to his room to begin his mental work out while doing sword training.
At this point everyone has settled into a routine and Ruby is even opening up a bit to him still wont be around him alone but she at least don't hide away from him anymore. It's into this that Qrow comes stumbling in one morning. Qrow had been out drinking the night before and had finally stumbled to Tai's house around sun up only to see 2 figures out back training. He knows it can't be Yang or Ruby as they are the farthest things from morning people so it must be Tai and his house guest from school. He thinks nothing of it and stumbles his way to the couch and falls asleep. A few hours later he is woken up by Yang walking in and going to the kitchen to begin making breakfast she is followed closely by some guy he feels he should recognize. He is curious where Tai is if Yang is making breakfast Tai should be done training by now especially if it was him and that new kid.
Qrow gets up stretches quickly and walks into the kitchen. "Hey little lady I thought I saw your dad out back training is he not making breakfast?"
Yang "That was me and Zoro here out back my dad should be waking up soon but since we are up we just started making breakfast. Seemed like the right thing to do."
Qrow can't help but think back to when Yang used to have to cook and do everything around the house including take care of Tai and shakes his head. "If your dad knew you guys where going to be up training he should have gotten up and made breakfast for you girls. Do you guys want any help?" …."Zoro you said?" now he takes a real look at this man in the kitchen and suddenly everything clicks. "We fought to a draw and then I basically forced you to come here to signal right?"
Zoro "Well it was only a draw because I only had one sword with me if I had my normal compliment I would have won, but yes we fought and you made me come here. I assumed it was you who had me boarding here."
Yang "Yeah if you want to cut up some fruit that would be great."
Qrow begins cutting fruit. "Of course Yang anything I can do to help. Well Zoro when you get your full arsenal back we will have to fight again then. What where you guys doing outside that early anyway?"
Zoro and Yang smile at each other. Zoro says they where doing weight training with natural weights instead of machines. They where doing this to build up muscle strength and endurance. Qrow nods in understanding hoping that that is the only trait she got from Raven.
After breakfast they go to class and this is a big day the day everyones aura is unlocked and they begin to hunt for their semblance. After having their aura unlocked they are split into smaller groups with local huntsman assisting to try and have everyone get their semblance that day. Yang finds hers easy enough she has the ability to use her aura as a shield for those around her because she views herself as one who needs to protect those she loves. Zoro also finds his though he finds it rather ironic given it is the one thing he hasn't been able to actually do here.
After they have found their semblances they are all brought into a bigger classroom. The purpose of this is so they can meet with others they are comfortable with and discuss their semblance and what that means for them. They go around the room and finally it gets to Yang.
Yang "Well when I went searching I was found rather quickly by someone who seemed to have been looking for me as well. This person took me to a house that looked remarkably like my home. They left me by the door to go in and after going in I saw someone I hadn't seen in a very long time. Summer Rose, my sister's mom and the one who helped raise me. She said I had been doing a good job of keeping Ruby safe and now she wanted to give me something to help make it easier. She gave me the ability to create aura shields around those around me using my aura instead of theirs. She mentioned there is more to it than that but I would have to figure that out on my own."
Teacher "Well that's certainly a unique Semblance and as far as visions go that would fit with the semblance. I am looking forward to seeing how you use that and perhaps learning what she was talking about."
Yang "Thanks I am looking forward to it as well."
Teacher "Your turn Zoro. What did you see and what is your semblance?"
Zoro "My vision went quickly I was visited by Death and gave me the gift of devastation. He then laughed and asked if I thought I could really escape my past. I wont be using my semblance as it is far to devastating for a place like this."
Everyone goes quite at that unsure of what to do. A man claiming his semblance was given to him by death and that death laughed at him. That's not even getting into what he said about his semblance. Finally the teacher gets themselves together enough to talk to him.
Teacher "Well that's certainly something I have never heard of before. I would ask you to expand but I feel that's a conversation best done without other students present. I would ask that you come back tomorrow and talk to the head master."
Zoro nods his head understanding that it wasn't really a question.
That was the end of the day for the students after they talked in their groups of students about their semblances. Zoro and Yang are heading back and Zoro can tell she has questions much like he does about her.
Zoro "I can tell you have questions so how about this we do a one for one question trade as I have questions about what you said as well."
Yang "That sounds good, I'll go first, what do you mean when you said death visited you?"
Zoro "I am not avoiding the question just know I can't tell you everything. Death has visited me before it's why I recognized him. My turn If Summer was not your mother who was?"
Yang "Wow that's going to need to be revisited later. You don't pull any punches do you? It's not so much that Summer wasn't my mother as much as she didn't give birth to me but she did raise me, for a time anyway."
And so it goes the whole way back they go and trade questions finding more about each other they ever thought they would. Yang tells him all about Summer and Raven, about what happened to Tai and how he finally came back to himself a few years ago. Zoro tells all about his time here his travels and his goals.
This is how the rest of the year goes: They train in the morning go to school come home train in the evening in hand to hand. Sometimes Qrow joins them at the house never for more than a few days. By the end of the school year Ruby is actually talking to Zoro and has finally broken out of her shell.
The school year has finally finished and Zorois getting ready to leave for the summer. He has places he has visit and duals to do again. He tells them he will be back when school starts back up and not to worry about him he has found his way so far he can find his way forward again. He says his goodbyes and begins to leave.
His first stop is the bandit tribe Branwen. After hearing Yang's story about Raven he knew this was the Raven she had been talking about he felt a bit bad about not telling her he knew her mother and perhaps he will tell her next year. First though he has to talk to her and figure out why she left. They have a 6 year running get together where they spar and then the winner trains the looser for a week before they go their separate ways and meet up again the next year.
When he gets there he is let in without any hesitation not that it would have mattered they know they can't defeat Zoro as even Raven has been unable to that. When he walks in he is escorted to Raven's tent. They greet each other and Zoro mentions he has something he wants to talk to her about before they begin.
Zoro "I met your daughter Yang this year. I was recruited by Qrow to attend Signal and while there I stayed with Tai. I do have to ask why you left? Before you ask no she does not know I know you."
Raven "Honestly I never intended to leave especially not for as long as I did. I found out some truths about Ozpin and I had to step away and clear my head. Before I knew it a week had turned into a year turned into 12 years. Honestly at this point I don't think she needs me and if I where to go back would she even take me back?"
Zoro isn't really sure what to make of that. "What did you find out about Ozpin? She may not need you but she sure could use you."
Raven "He isn't the man everyone believes him to be. He is using his students to fight a war he can't win without giving them the information they need."
Zoro "How very interesting. Would you be alright if I told Yang I know you when I get back there?"
Raven hesitates for a second before nodding. "So do you want to fight tomorrow I know you have traveled far and the day is winding down we can begin in the morning."
Zoro agrees that is for the best. They have dinner and talk long into the night catching up.
That next morning the whole tribe is gathered to watch hoping this years is longer than last years. They do notice Zoro only has one sword this year unlike last year and they are not sure what to make of that. Zoro and Raven begin their spar and quickly everyone realizes Zoro is still far beyond Raven and as such far beyond them as well. They do spar for a decent amount of time but that is only because Zoro doesn't end it. Raven understands this and takes this as a time to learn from a true master of the sword unlike any she has ever seen before. Finally after about an hour he decides to end it and disarms her and quickly puts her sword to her throat. Raven concedes and is given her sword back.
After the fight they have breakfast and discuss what exactly Raven would like to learn this week. Once that is decided they go out and begin to begin training. Once their week is over Raven uses her Semblance to send him to his next destination.
His next destination is Menagerie. When he gets there he immediately heads to the Belladona household. No one questions why a human is here Zoro has been around here for awhile and always was nice to everyone and has thus been accepted. When he arrives at the Belladona house he knocks on the door and it is answered by Ghira.
Zoro "Hello Ghira, Is blake available I was hoping to talk to my friend and spend some time with her."
Ghira gets a sad face "Well I am sorry to have to be the one to tell you this but Blake decided to stay with the new version of the white fang. We fought and we said some things we regret and I hope given time she regrets some of what she said as well. I can only hope she realizes they are wrong before its to late."
Zoro "I am sorry to hear that I rather enjoyed our talks and time together. I know she likely blocked your number but do you happen to have her scroll number?"
Ghira "I don't know what good that will do she left it here. She also left something that I believe you should have. I think she would want you to hold onto it for her." He takes Zoro inside and shows him to Blakes room. On the desk there is a box that Zoro recognizes.
Zoro "Is that? Is that what I left her?" Ghira nods and Zoro walks over to it. When he opens it he sees something he didn't think he would ever hold again. He grabs the small little thing that he had given Blake in order to keep her safe when he couldn't be there. To see she had left it behind it almost brought him to tears. When he lifts it out he see's there is a note under it.
Dear Zoro,
I hate to do this in a note but frankly if I did in person I would likely not ever get through it. I want to first thank you for being a good friend and showing me that even those who seem on the outside to be terrible people can in fact be the wonderful. I have followed my heart and stay in the White Fang. I know you always said violence should be a last resort and only for the protection of self or those you love but we have tried everything else and I don't see any results. I know you would say to give it time that change doesn't happen quickly but my family has been fighting this fight my whole life and nothing has changed. I decided to leave this behind as it was given to me to use for defense and I don't want to tarnish the memories we have together. I knew you would visit eventually and so I have left it for you. If we ever meet up again I hope its not when we are fighting. When you use it remember our good times and may it serve you as well as it did me. Don't worry I am not unarmed I did take Gambol Shroud, it's not the same but it will certainly do the job. Don't come looking for me to change my mind I will not be leaving and you will not be welcome no matter what I say on your behalf.
Blake
When he reads this he is heartbroken. A person he tried to help guide and train, a person he genuinely called a friend had betrayed everything he had taught her and everything her parents tried to teach her. He did his best to keep his tears in and he turned to Ghira and said he would taking what she left him. He handed him the note and went downstairs to sit on the couch.
Ghira followed him downstairs and went into the kitchen and grabbed the sake. He returns to the sitting room with the bottle and 2 glasses. "I know your hurting right now, we all are she didn't leave but 2 weeks ago. I figured you where going to be coming so I made sure to stock up on sake."
Zoro nods in appreciation. Taking a glass he pours them both a glass. "Where is Kali?"
Ghira smiles at that question. "She is actually with the council to try and set up an academy for huntsman. Obviously we can't get an academy like Beacon but we can certainly get something like Signal."
Zoro "That's awesome you could certainly use it. Even if they don't get widely accepted into the other academies they can at least become apprentices and protect Menagerie."
Ghira "That's the idea. We got it from you actually. When you came and showed the people here that people don't need to be reliant on the other kingdoms for defense. We can do it ourselves. When we saw that me and Kali signed up for some self defense training and now we are leading the charge for the academy."
Zoro "That's awesome I am glad you guys are taking your fate into your own hands. Even if the other kingdoms refuse to acknowledge you, you will be able to defend yourselves for a long time yet."
I suppose I should mention what Zoro actually looks like. He looks much like he does after the time skip only aged like at the start of the series. If that's confusing take the way he looks at the beginning and all the muscle and scar from his return post time skip and you'll have a basic idea. This is the way he has looked basically since he was 10 its why people treat him as an adult. The reason Qrow believed him to be 13 was he reminded him of Yang and Qrow has never been the most well observant person.
After his time in Menagerie it's time to head back to begin year 2 at signal. He returns a bit early so he can continue to develop his relationship with Yang and Ruby. When he returns he details some of his adventures leaving out the name of the first person he met and that his friend joined the violent White Fang.
Things pick up right away just like before he left only when he returned Ruby asked if she could train with them even though she isn't in Signal yet she does intend to go the next year. Zoro of course asks her father and sisters permission before accepting but does agree. This year progresses much like the first year. This year though they have advanced weapons training and intro to weapons crafting.
It's in second year combat class that everyone gets to see his new weapon. When he broke it out that first day no one was quite sure what to make of the small 2ft circular shaft. It wasn't until he turned it on that people began to realize what it was. A mechashift weapon it is a sword that can shift into a kusarigama. No one was sure why he would go from a sword to this weapon. When Yang asked about it he explained he is simply holding it for a friend of his until she returns for it.
When they get into intro to weapon crafting most of the students have these elaborate ideas they want to make but not Yang she is not really sure what to make. So she asks Zoro.
Zoro "If I was you based off of your enjoyment of close quarters combat and that semblance of yours I would use a kestis. It's like a hand wrap only it has spikes I would of course modify it so that the spikes extended up past my wrist."
Yang does some thinking "Can you help me design it so I can see if it is something I even would like before we go about actually making it?"
Zoro "Of course, in fact if you want to experiment with the base of the hand wraps I am thinking I actually have some in my bag at home."
Yang "That would be great you can show me to wrap them I take it"
Zoro "Of course. Its rather easy after you do it a few times."
So they design it and Yang experiments with the wraps that Zoro has ultimately Yang decides she likes the feel of it and decides to use 1.5in spikes on them. Once they are crafted Yang asks Zoro what he is making.
Zoro "Well I am making something crazy it's a sword, Iklwa, and a scythe."
Yang gives him a confused look before asking "So your replacing your sword and that awesome weapon your borrowing? Whats an Iklwa?"
Zoro "No I am not replacing either rather I will be using all in conjunction together I have trained in 3 sword style. To answer your other question it's a short spear that I can throw but is mostly used for getting inside of armor and around defenses sinking deep with its 2ft blade while giving me lots of room to use the back end as a blocker or as a blunt object."
Yang nods her head understanding the usefulness of such a weapon. "You can wield 3 swords at once? Where does the third one go in your foot or something?"
Zoro smiles "Perhaps if your lucky you will see. I have to find a worthy opponent to use it on."
So the second year goes by and by the end Yang has just about learned all she can of Fishman Karate not that she knows that is what it is called. While Ruby learned the basics she was far more interested in basic weapon proficiency and by the time he is ready to leave on his summer trip again Ruby is proficient with Zoro's new weapon though she wants something different for herself as she is smaller she wants a long range option. Not that she or Yang or really anyone knows that Zoro has the best ranged weapon of anyone in Remnant. It's time for him to go and before he goes he makes a call to Raven.
Zoro "Raven, I have decided to tell Yang I know you. She will likely want to come with me on my trip. I have given you a year to think about our talk. If she wants to come she will accompany me as she is my apprentice her and her sister."
Raven "I am hesitant to allow her to come but if she is your apprentice then as my daughter she will be welcome. Of course she will have to prove herself against an opponent of my choosing. You understand of course."
Zoro "If that is what it takes then yes that is fine."
Later that day with Zoro and Yang
Zoro "Yang I have been needing to tell you something for awhile now and I believe the time is right. I know your mother. When we met I did not know she was your mother but we have been sparring and training for a few years now. It wasn't until this last summer that I learned she was your mother."
Yang shocked by this "Why did you wait a whole year before telling me?"
Zoro "Before I left I gave her the chance to reach out to you and since she did not I decided it was no longer a secret I would be keeping."
Yang "I can understand that. Do you know why she left?"
Zoro "I do but that is a conversation you will have to have with her as it's not my story to tell."
Yang "Do you know when I will see her to ask her?"
Zoro "I actually do. I told her you might be accompanying me this year as I have taken you on as an apprentice. As such you and Ruby are both welcome to come along with me this summer. Just be aware that if you come with me she will have you fight a person of her choosing. I doubt it will be her as that would be a bad look if you where to beet her."
Yang "I will be joining you if Ruby wants to come as well. I can't leave her alone here all summer."
So they ask Ruby and of course she says yes its an adventure after all with her two favorite people. So that next morning they head out. When they get to the Branwen tribe they are allowed in of course. Raven approaches and as it is getting late invites them in for dinner before they have their fights in the morning.
Raven "I thought you said just you and my daughter where coming? Whats with the other girl?"
Zoro "That other girl is Yang's sister Summer's daughter Ruby. Yang and Ruby are both my apprentices and as such both travel with me. If you have an issue with that then I suppose I can end our arrangement."
Raven "No of course not I simply like to know who all comes in the camp. I am sure you can understand that. Summer's daughter raised by Tai and a sister to my Yang she must be strong especially with you training her."
Yang can't hold back any more "So mother, I have some questions. Chiefly why did you abandon me and dad?"
Raven gets a sad look on her face "That is a long story and some of the details you are not ready for. I will however tell you some of it. I never intened to be gone for as long as I have been, see I found some world shattering news about a mentor and a man I looked up to come to find out he isn't the man I thought.. I left to go clear my head I told Tai I would be gone for a few days a few weeks at most. Honestly that was the intention then a few weeks turned into a few months turned into a few years. After awhile I simply thought you where better off without me, that was a lie I told myself of course. I know it doesn't fix anything but I am sorry I missed you growing up."
Yang doesn't quite understand but she has to take the information she is given. "So now that you have seen me again are you going to stay in contact or is this kind of a one and done deal?"
Raven "I would love to stay in contact. I would love to come home but tribal law says I can't until such a time as someone in the tribe beats me in combat. To have us stay in contact you will have to win your fight tomorrow. This is not my rules but rather laws I am bound by. Even I can not defeat the entire tribe and if I tried to leave they would never stop hunting me."
Yang nods her head. At this point Zoro interrupts. "So if I where to join the tribe obviously I can defeat you and then you can leave and because I can defeat the entire tribe I could leave as well is that about right?"
Raven "I didn't think of that but yes I do believe that could work. The whole tribe fears you especially after that incident when we first met."
Zoro "Then lets do that tomorrow instead of our usual spar. That way Yang's result wont matter. Not that I don't have the utmost faith in Yang it's just best to be prepared."
That next morning the whole tribe can tell something is different. They are not sure what is different but clearly something is. When Zoro walks out he walks out like a man on a mission. What surprises everyone is that Raven does not come with him. Usually they leave together on their spars.
When Zoro walks out he loudly declares for all to hear "I am challenging Raven Branwen for control of this tribe. She has made me mad and therefor I believe she is no longer fit for command of this tribe. Seeing as I am not a member of this tribe I need someone to either deny my challenge or second it. Be aware the one who denies my challenge I will be challenging for placement in the tribe."
Everyone is shacking at that statement wondering what Raven has done to make Zoro so mad. Vernal is putting things together based off of what Raven has told her and now Zoro's proclamation. She decides to speak up "I will second your challenge Zoro. I may have faith in Raven's leadership but I can not stress that you have proven to be the better fighter and perhaps the better leader."
Raven walks out. "I have heard your challenge and answer it thus. If you win not only will I cede control of the tribe but I will leave and never return however if I win you will stay here and work for me."
Zoro "I can accept those terms. We will fight as we have for several years now under those same rules."
Raven "That is acceptable."
Everyone gathers to watch Yang and Ruby included. The duel begins and you can cut the tension with a knife. Even though Raven wants to return to Yang and Tai she also wants to beat Zoro. They begin and Raven goes on offense only to suddenly find herself being cut and stabbed all at once she didn't even see Zoro draw any of his weapons only to find herself being sliced by Enma and stabbed by his new weapon. Her aura breaks and she collapses bleeding from 2 non-lethal wounds. The whole camp goes silent at what they just watched. They all knew Zoro was the superior fighter but no one expected it to be that easy for the man, especially not Yang and Ruby who had never seen him take a fight serious enough to use multiple weapons.
Once the fight is decided Zoro declares for all to hear "As leader of this tribe I have decided that Raven will stay here for the day before departing in the morning. As she has been a worthy adversary over the years and has earned that."
The tribe has no real choice but to concede this. After that showing no one even dares to question anything he declares. Zoro has more to declare after seeing his declaration go unchallenged. "I declare we are no longer bandits but rather you are going to be the start of my army. We will now operate as extralegal. I want everyone to train up and make themselves better. I will be leaving with Raven as I have things I have to do including a score to settle with a certain crow. As such I will be sending you all to Menagerie. You will find a man by the name of Ghira I will let him know you are coming. He will put you to work training and teaching. They have much to learn and are strong to learn it. While there he is my proxy you will follow his commands as though they are mine. If you don't I will know and I will take retribution."
There is some grumbling amongst some members but most take it in stride. Vernal asks "So are you going to be training us then? What about the White Fang they don't like our kind especially not in Menagerie?" This is met by people mumbling agreement.
Zoro "That is easy the White Fang at least there militant wing is officially an enemy of the tribe. The idea behind sending you there is to help bridge the gap between our people so that we have the strongest for when we must fight. Don't get me wrong we will have to fight at some point perhaps sooner than I would like."
And so he now controls the Branwen tribe and has set Raven free to return to her daughter and husband. He has started to build up a fighting force what for he won't say only that it is always good to have allies. He contacts Ghira and lets him know he is sending people his way to help with the academy as well as the Grimm problem but that they will need his support. He also tells him that they are under his command. He does not mention the fight to come or that they have declared war on the militant White Fang.
Vernal asked if she could accompany them and continue her apprenticeship under Raven. Zoro looks to Raven and then to Yang both of who nod before he agrees on the condition that she train with him as well. This she can accept. With all of that accomplished Raven uses her semblance to take them to Zoro's next summer training spot. This year he does not go to Menagerie but rather to the great city of Mistral. When they get there they go and find a man named Opal he has been in hiding for many years now as he seems to know to much and has been hunted because of it.
When they find him Zoro introduces everyone before asking if he has found anyone interesting lately. When Opal responds in the affirmative he knows Zoro will want to meet her so he calls for her. In walks someone he never thought he would lay eyes on again let alone in a world so far from his own.
Zoro upon seeing her gets up and gives her the biggest hug he can and just never wants to let go. Kuina is at first confused but then she remembers what that stranger who gave her the sword all those years ago said "Someone has been searching for you even if they refuse to admit it to themselves. When they find you they will recognize you and they will embrace you as a sister. When this happens you should consider following him" Remembering this she decides to accept this affection from this stranger who she has heard of but never met.
Zoro "I almost didn't recognize you being a bit older than I remember but I am glad I did. I thought for sure I would never see you again."
Everyone is confused both by his actions and now his statement. He see's this and decides he had best explain some things.
Zoro "I once knew someone very much like you she carried that exact sword in fact. She was my greatest rival when I was young I never managed to defeat her even after 2001 tries. Unfortunately she passed away before we could accomplish our goals. She was a wonderful swordmistress and an even better friend. When I saw you I simply could not help myself."
When he says that everything comes rushing back to her. All the spars the conversations everything. For her it's like they just finished their last spar but for Zoro it seems to have been a long time if his voice and eye are anything to judge from. "Can we step outside Zoro?"
Zoro nods and they go outside to be alone. "Why did you wish to step outside?"
Kuina "I don't know how long it has been for you but I woke up here a few weeks and found Opal. He has been good to me not as good as my father but the best I can hope for under the circumstances. When he found me I had no memories of my time with you or anything of our world. It wasn't until you hugged me that I remembered it all. It is taking time to put all the memories of two lives together but I am doing it. How long was I gone? How did you get here?"
Zoro "That makes me so happy to hear. I mean it sucks but I am so happy to hear it truly is you. After you died I took Wado Ichimoi and set off to achieve our goal. I did by the way and after that I had to do something else so I opened a dojo and taught until the day I died at a good old age. It was at this point I was offered a deal to help the family I found along the way and here I am. I have a mission here that I will tell you about later."
Kuina "So where you happy?"
Zoro "After I found my family I certainly was. I will have to tell you about them some time."
Kuina "I will enjoy that."
With that they go back inside and rejoin the group. After a few weeks there talking and training and generally being happy. Zoro and his group return after trading scroll numbers. When they make it back it is just about time to begin the next school year and Ruby's first.
When they all decide to return Raven brings up a good point perhaps it would be best if her and Vernal show up a day later while everyone is in school so she can try and explain everything to Tai. Yang while hesitant to let her mom out of her sight has to agree with the logic. When Zoro Ruby and Yang show back up they go inside only to see Tai right there waiting for them.
Tai "How did your adventure go? See anyone familiar?" he asks almost like he knows the answer already.
Yang "It was rather fun and yes I did. Turns out Zoro knows Raven and we where able to free her from her tribe like Qrow is."
Tai knew they had ventured to Ravens domain as Qrow had followed them but them freeing Raven that was news to him. "So what is she going to do now? It's not like she can still be a huntress."
Zoro "We had hoped to wait until tomorrow when she could explain this but we where hoping she and her ward could stay here. They would be under my protection and they would be my responsibility."
Tai is stunned by that "I suppose if she had a good reason I could consider it though I don't know where they would stay as we don't have any more room now that Qrow has moved in."
Yang and Ruby "Qrow has moved in! Why?"
Tai smiles at that reaction "Well the combat teacher at Signal had to retire so they asked Qrow if he could teach it and he accepted. As for why he is staying here well isn't it obvious he wants to be around you girls more"
They squeal with excitement as teenage girls are apt to do. Zoro looks at him man to man and says "I will simply move outside I don't sleep much anyway and it will make training easier. Besides I am used to sleeping outside."
Tai shakes his head but can't bring himself to say no. As mad as he has been at Raven all these years he can't say he isn't looking forward to seeing her. "Why don't you tell me how you and Raven met Zoro?"
Zoro explains how in his youth he wandered the world looking for worthy challenges and getting stronger. He explains how she tried to rob him but he defeated her after a brief flurry of blows. Then after he had earned her respect they had met up on occasion to fight and train together.
Tai smiles "That sounds like something Raven would have done. Tell her that she can come and talk to me and if I like what she has to say then she can stay."
Zoro nods and calls Raven. Shortly after he hangs up a portal opens up and Raven and Vernal walk out. Zoro takes the girls outside Vernal included so Raven and Tai can talk. After a time Raven comes out and tells them its all good and that they will be staying.
Once school starts back up we have combat class with Qrow.
Qrow "So we have a bunch of kids who think they know what combat is. Can anyone here tell me what it is like to be in combat?"
Zoro after waiting for anyone else to raise their hand and finding no one raises his hand.
Qrow "That doesn't surprise me at all Zoro. SO tell me what happened in the last real life and death fight you where in?"
Zoro "Well that's a tricky one I have to ask a clarifying question before I answer do you want the last one where I could have died or the last one fought to the death?"
Qrow "They should be the same but if they are not then the last one you could have died."
Zoro smiles "Well in the last fight where I could have died it was many years ago and frankly I'm surprised I didn't die in it. I was fighting a man who had never so much as been hurt but twice in his whole life. A man many considered to be a monster, who was considered unkillable. We fought and it was terrible I had to go all out and even then I barely managed to survive and wound him. He taught me many a thing that day he also gave me a great gift."
Qrow "that sounds about right. Those of you who have not experienced this hope and pray you never have to for if you do even the best trained among you might fall. Now who is ready for a lesson in what you will be learning in this class?"
Everyone but Zoro raises their hand and Qrow picks up on this but isn't surprised nor does he call it out.
Qrow "Well why don't we have a practical lesson on what I was just talking about? Zoro are you ready for our rematch?"
Zoro smiles at that "the real question is what happens when I win?"
This gets a lot of snickering and some angry glares from students. Who did Zoro think he was thinking he could beat the combat teacher.
Qrow is not shocked by the statement however "I take it then you have found replacements for what you where missing last time? To answer your question you get top marks and excused from the class for the year so you can do personal training."
Zoro nods his head "I have indeed. One is not mine to wield but I use it honor a friend. Those are acceptable prizes."
The rest of the class is shocked Qrow seems to have fought Zoro before and earned the mans respect. With that knowledge the room grows quite as Zoro walks down to the ring.
Qrow "I want them to see what real combat looks like so the rules are simple we fight until one of us surrenders. No ring out no aura depletion no first blood none of that fight to the near finish."
Zoro nods "I can agree to that just know it won't be me surrendering I didn't last time I wont this time."
After he says this he grabs out his weapons. Enma, blakes, and his spear sword scythe all ready. Enma in his mouth because it doesn't shift blakes in his left and his new one in his right in it's scythe mode. When Qrow see's this he can't help but chuckle a bit and shake his head at the man with a sword in his mouth. Everyone but Blake in the room chuckles as well but refrain from laughing when they remember Zoro can beat any of them with any weapon in under 90 seconds so he must have a point. Qrow pulls his weapon out and they begin fighting. Qrow assumes that since Zoro has his aura unlocked he will use some sort of semblance so he was surprised when he made contact and no aura flashed but his scythe much like last time simply didn't do anything. This was the opening Zoro needed as he launches the strongest attack he dares. He catches Qrow cleaand delivers a serious of devastating blows faster than anyone had seen him move. Suddenly Qrow is on the ground aura broken and bleeding from a dozen cuts. He looks up at Zoro "Very nice I yield. Youll have to tell me some time how your body is so strong."
Zoro "Perhaps some day I will. For now though I have training to go assist Raven with."
At the mention of Raven's name Qrow looks absolutely stunned. "Class dismissed your homework figure out how to beat Zoro due by the end of the year."
After everyone but Yang leaves he walks over to Zoro "What did you mean when you said you had training with Raven to assist with?"
Zoro "Raven Branwen has left the Branwen tribe and returned to Tai and Yang. She came with a young women about Yang's age named Vernal Raven is training her and I am training Raven so I guess I am training Vernal as well. Also they are staying with Tai."
Qrow isn't sure what to make of this never did he think he would get his sister back from those people. He can't help but wonder why she left but he knows he must talk to her about it. After class that day Ruby comes home happy as can be she is finally in combat school so why would she not be. Just like the year previous Zoro Yang and her go to train in the back yard only this year they are joined by Raven and Vernal and after a time Qrow as well.
This is how the next two years went. Tai and Raven eventually get back together. Qrow and Raven heal their relationship. Ozpin shows up from time to time making Zoro Vernal and Raven mad but they decide against saying anything directly to the man. Ultimately Yang Zoro and Vernal are all accepted into Beacon. Ozpin is looking for any excuse he can to let Ruby in early as well as he believes she would make a wonderful pawn just like her uncle and mother where. At some point no one is really certain when Yang and Ruby decide that Vernal and Zoro are family now and won't take no for an answer. Their reasoning if Vernal is Raven's apprentice and Raven is Yang's mother then Vernal must be family, Zoro they just kind of adopted after finding out he had no family of his own.
On Menagerie the tribe is growing. They are accepting both Faunus and non faunus really anyone with no where else to go. They are helping the fledgling combat school get off the ground. The first class is getting ready to graduate. It's only 4 kids but hey its 4 kids. Ghira is still looking for Blake to return though some days he looses hope. It's part of why he decided to become headmaster of the combat school. While he himself is not thrilled with combat he knows the necessity of it. He is treating those kids much like he would Blake partially because they remind of her partially because he wants them to be better. He is helping the tribe because he see's everything the White Fang could and should have been and is taking his lessons learned there and using them here.
A month before the start of Beacons year Yang Ruby Zoro and Vernal are all in the city all on different errands. Ruby is getting more Dust rounds for her awesome weapon. Yang is at the arcade with Vernal playing all manor of games. Zoro is at the Blacksmith picking up some special presents. When Zoro is done he heads back to pick up Ruby before they go get Yang and Vernal. Right as he turns the corner he see's ruby throwing a person who looks at first like Roman Torchwick out the window but his Haki tells him that it's not him but rather someone familiar. He does see Roman though and he see's Ruby go after him. He knows Ruby can handle Roman I mean she can handle Qrow. He walks over to the empty space where fake Roman was a second ago. "Neo show yourself I know its you no sense in hiding from me."
Neo drops her semblance and shows herself to Zoro. Shocked he remembered her after all this time.
Zoro "Stay there I want to talk to you. What are you doing with Roman and whats with the crazy hair and the umbrella?"
When she reaches for her scroll he begins to get mad not at her but that she seemingly can't verbally answer anymore. She types out that Roman basically kidnapped her dyed her hair this way makes her dress this way and use this stupid Umbrella as a weapon instead of the awesome weapon he gave her. She also explains that to ensure compliance he burned her vocal cords so she can't talk anymore. This only serves to make Zoro see red. That someone would torture a child like that. He takes out enma tells her to stay there he is going to go deal with Roman and he will return and she can come stay with him and his friends and perhaps he can recover her voice.
He walks over to where The fight just concluded only to find Roman in custody and Glynda there talking to Ruby. He knows this isn't good she just gave Ozpin the opening he needed to get her into Beacon early. He walks over to Glynda. "Miss Goodwitch I must ask that I and my friend accompany Ruby anywhere she goes from here and sit in on all interrogations as she is a minor."
Glynda "That can be arranged though interrogation is a strong word. I was mearly going to ask her to the station to help resolve some things we saw here."
Zoro nods his head "Good I will be right back with my friend then we can go." He walks over to Neo explains the situation. Neo is at first hesitant but then she remembers Zoro's power and that was 10 years ago he had to be stronger now. She also remembers the promise he made her when he gave her a present before he had to leave.
They walk over Neo choosing to glamour herself into better clothes and her natural hair color. When they get to the station they are all put into a room together. Ruby is introduced to Neo. Ruby explains what happened in the dust store and how she caught Roman. When in walks Ozpin with a plate of cookies.
Ozpin "I see young Ruby you have been keeping good company. Would you like a cookie?"
Ruby takes the cookies before Ozpin continues.
Ozpin "Based off of your test scores and tonight I would like to formally invite you to Beacon Academy early. I know its unusual but it has happened before and will happen in the future."
Ruby looks at Zoro almost asking if she should accept. Zoro speaks up "Can I talk to you outside Ozpin?"
Ozpin nods and they head outside.
Zoro "I know why you want Ruby in early. I have known you wanted her in ever since you first visited. That said I can make sure not do you not get her now but you never get her and loose several other students as well along the way. I will however look the other way on your reasoning if you accept a few terms I have."
Ozpin "Who do you think you are to demand anything from me? I have no idea what you are talking about."
Zoro "Her silver eyes, the fact she is Summer's daughter. The fact that you see her as manipulatable. As for who I am I am the man who destroyed the Branwen tribe, The man who bested Qrow in 30 seconds, it has been said I can not be hurt. I am the master of the three sword style and the greatest swordsman Remnant has ever had. If you wish to make an enemy of me know that I have powerful friends."
Ozpin is not used to being talked to this way nor is he used to people knowing his plans. "I remember reading your application. Now what terms do you have?"
Zoro "They are fairly simple really. My friend in there with me she will be attending Beacon as well. You will hire Raven as a combat or survival teacher she would be good in both. I get to pick my team. I get a dedicated training room for me and my chosen apprentices."
Ozpin "Your friend assuming she passes initiation will be allowed in. Assigning your own team I don't see why not within reason, you can not pick Ruby or Yang, the training area that's fine it will be yours. Raven teaching that will be a hard sell. I will have to work to make that happen but I do believe I can do that. Though I wish I had more time."
Zoro "Then Ruby graciously accepts your offer to attend Beacon academy. We will see you at initiation."
Zoro takes Ruby out and the three of them head to Tai's house. Once they get there no one is surprised when Zoro brings home another friend but they are when he takes her into the living room and begins rooting around in his bag. No one had seem him ever take anything but weapons out of it so why was he doing that in the living room. When he pulls out two vial's they are even more surprised.
Zoro "Now Neo drink this one and Rub this one your throat. If I am correct and I usually am this will fix all the damage done by Roman."
When Neo does as she was told she feels ice and then fire and then a soothing sensation. Then suddenly she feels as though everything is right in the world again. She opens her mouth to speak before remembering what Roman did but decides to have faith in Zoro anyway and so she thanks him and speaks for the first time in 6 years.
That next morning Zoro after training asks all the ladies to gather around as he has presents for them. He walks over to his sleeping area and pulls out a bundle. When he returns he sets the bundle of the ground and begins to unwrap it.
He takes out the first item and it's a sword he walks over to Raven with it "This is for you I know how much you liked Enma and if you are to really be a swordswoman you need a real sword not just Omen."
He takes out the second item and walks over to Vernal "You are beginning classes at beacon and as such you will need a weapon that is uniquely yours. I know you have been experimenting with different weapons but you finally settled on something recently. I gift to you Fury. It should serve you well." (Deer horned knives that can become chakram and can be infused with dust along the bevel)
He takes out the third weapon and walks over to Yang "I know you are happy with your weapon that we built but as you have graduated so then should your weapon. I know it's not one you built but I worked on it and am gifting it to you. It's almost identical to your current guantlets but I thought a small surprise would be helpful especially as you encounter bigger threats so these can also put out 6in claws from the top of the knuckle so you can straight up stab something without having to just hit it." (Kestus with Tekko-Kagi claws. It also mechashifts into a bracelet for each wrist.)
Finally he walks over to Ruby "I feel bad I don't actually have a weapon for you. What I do have though is something I hope you enjoy all the same though." He hands her a bundle of metal when she gives him a strange look he simply smiles and tells her to unravel it. When she does she is even more confused as is everyone around. "Ruby you where it as a base for your combat attire over your undershirt but under your outer. It's dust infused chainmail. Basically you can have it act either as a defense or due to your semblance as a wonderful last resort bomb. Also it will take any dust that is used against you and store it in itself for later usage." When he says this everyone stares some in jealousy others in awe that such a thing could be constructed.
Zoro "I hope you choose to use these gifts but even if you don't they are yours. You have all achieved great things since I have known you and I am excited for the future with you. Now lets hurry up and get ready we have to leave for beacon soon."
On the bullhead on the way to Beacon they all kind of are staying together outside of Raven who is with the other staff. They see someone throwing up and other people talking amongst themselves recognizing some and not others. When they land they all exit the Bullhead and begin making their way towards the auditorium. Once they get off the ship Yang heads to talk to her friends from Signal while Vernal and Zoro decide to try and get Ruby to socialize more as she has never been the best at it. They do this by telling Ruby they are going to leave her here and go get situated in the auditorium and she is to meet back up with them after having talked to at least 3 people.
Ruby is not happy about this not that it changes anything. Ruby is standing there not sure of what to do when suddenly she is hit from behind. She turns around and begins to stare daggers at the person behind her.
Weiss "What do you think your doing stopping in the middle of the walkway like that. Do you have any idea of the damage you have caused? I am carrying around enough dust to level the school and as we all know its not the most stable of things."
Ruby scowling at her not that it seems to have any effect on her "I'll have you know I was stopped to think about something with plenty of room on either side of me to walk around yet you decide to walk into me with as you said enough dust to destroy the school. That sounds like you need to get your head out of your ass and start paying attention to whats around you before you hurt yourself or others."
Weiss is a bit shocked by this having never been talked to this way by anyone. "Do you have any idea who you are talking to little girl? How did you even get in here anyway I doubt your qualified since you don't look to be more than 12" She puts on a smug look like take that girl
Ruby "I have no idea who you are nor do I really care. As far as my qualifications for getting in Ozpin himself asked for me to attend and moved me forward due to my combat prowess having trained under some of the best fighters in the world."
It's at this point that someone else chimes in "That's Weiss Schnee heiress of the SDC, a company that is notorious for there human rights abuses of both faunus and non faunus."
They both look over and Weiss's anger is now directed at this newcomer.
Weiss "What do you mean human rights abuses? We have never done anything of the sort ask Atlas or any of the countless judges that have thrown out the lawsuits over the years. Just because people get hurt in mines doesn't mean we are abusing them."
The new person simply shakes their head and wanders off. Ruby uses this as a good opportunity to sneak away as well. It's then that she see's someone sitting alone on a bench. She thinks to herself 2 down one to go and walks over and sits next to them.
Ruby "Hi my name is Ruby. I just got started here and everyone I came with abandoned me. Whats your name?"
He looks over surprised that someone is actually talking to him "My name is Juanne Arc. I just started here as well. I don't really know anyone here but I am hoping that changes soon. I'm sorry your people abandoned you any idea why?"
Ruby "Thanks yeah one of my sisters went to check in on her friends while my brother and other sister and his friend all decided I needed to meet new people so they left me to fend for myself. It's alright thought I suppose I should know people outside of family."
He smiles "Yeah family is good at forcing us to do things like that. Aren't we supposed to head to the auditorium or something for a speech?"
They head over to the auditorium just talking and getting to know each other. When they get there Ruby is flagged down by her family as they have a seat for her. "It was nice meeting you Juanne you should come meet everyone at some point."
Juanne "Thanks I think I will take you up on that."
Once Ruby gets over to everyone Yang begins her interrogation of Ruby to see who she met and if any of them are worth meeting herself. Ruby talks about meeting Weiss and horrible she is and then talking to someone else who saved her and allowed her to sneak away, then she talks about meeting Juanne and how nice he is though kind of lonely and lacking self confidence. They all find this fascinating except for Neo who could care less as she is not really invested in anyone here except for Zoro.
After Ozpin gives his speech and Glynda tells them they will be staying in here tonight so they can familiarize themselves with each other they set up their little area before asking Ruby to go show them who all she met. Before they can even get going though Weiss walks over and gets very angry with Ruby.
Weiss "Well if it isn't miss oblivious. I have news for you if you where really trained by the best in the world which I doubt then who where they?"
Ruby goes to speak but before she can Zoro puts his hand on her shoulder to steady here before he speaks up "If you ever insult my sister again I will end you. Now based off what she said of your guys interaction it was clearly your fault and as such I demand you apologize to her. As for who trained her why that matters to you I don't know but if you just know it was a man who can not be defeated."
Weiss gets indignant at that "Apologize to a child never especially when it was not my fault. Of course her trainer would say that they must be a fool everyone can be defeated even if it is simply by greater numbers and firepower."
Zoro "Think what you will but don't call someone a fool who you have never met. If you will not apologize then I do believe your presence is no longer wanted leave before we make you leave."
Weiss harumps and turns and leaves. Ruby turns around "I could have handled that."
Zoro "I know you could have but as a big brother it is my job to defend you especially against someone like that. Now why don't we go meet this Juanne guy."
They all head over except for Neo who decides to get some early sleep. Juanne see's this group of people heading his way and begins to get nervous but then he see's Ruby at the head of it and remembers she wanted him to meet her people and so he relaxes.
They come over say hi and introduce themselves and after talking for awhile decide to all go to bed.
If your interested this is going to be the story without Blake leaving the White Fang. At least her not leaving before Beacon. She may still leave after Beacon falls or something. Also if you wish to support me and get some decent rewards I have started a page under the same username. kjtrack