A/N: What is up, everyone! I am so, so, so, so, sorry for the late update! Work and college have been kicking my ass and got me occupied with homework and such. I am using this opportunity to update one of my stories before I am put into a lot more work from college and my job. Also, I know some of you are wondering when I will update the story, The White Dragon of Fiore and Kamen Rider Eternal: Song of Eternity and it will be very soon. My brains need to develop ideas and to include that Fairy Tail is having a new season very soon. Also, I saw how some of you mentioned about the O-Driver CSM collection and yes, I will bring in those Combos into the story. I hope you all enjoyed the prologue and the first chapter. Just to let you all remember, I will be following the RWBY episodes.

NOTE: IF YOU HAVE NOT READ REMNANT OF DESIRES, READ IT BEFORE YOU START READING THIS STORY.

Henshin!

Third Person View

'Thought'

Greeed/Yummies


Hazel made his way to the White Fang base since Salem ordered him to. With the current tasks given, each member was assigned to, they know when to get it done for the Queen. When he finally made it to the base, he approached the base as some of the White Fang grunts took notice of him but recalled their orders in which they allowed him to pass through the doors.

The man glanced at the guards before he made it to the meeting room. Once in the room, he saw the leader of the faction, Adam Taurus, the only difference was the metal on his right arm, showing that he was wearing a special prosthetic.

"Hmph… Seems the OOO boy really did take your arm off." Hazel scoffed.

"Shut it."

"Maybe this will teach you, not to underestimate someone, Adam," Hazel noted.

Adam growled before he became silent for some odd reason. Hazel noticed Adam looking at something, making him turn his head to see a young man with neck-length blonde hair, slightly tanned skin and sported a toothy grin. He was wearing a yellow flannel shirt, black denim, and a baseball cap. He had a few accessories on him; a silver necklace and a few rings on his fingers.

"Who are you?" Hazel narrowed his eyes at the young man. He never detected his presence when he talked to Adam.

The young man chuckled before he glanced at Hazel. "Who am I?" He crowed. He moved away from the wall with a grin, his body became enveloped in a bright yellow light. The clinking of medals could be heard as they danced around him.

After the light died down, it reveals his true form. He was menacing, to say the least, his "hair" was nothing more than black tentacles sleeked back down to his shoulders. His head was feline in shape, with the ears to match where several small holes ran down his forehead before stopping by the bridge of his nose. His mouth was open as he sighed, revealing his sharp canines. Heavy black armor adorned his torso up to his shoulders, with small sharp spikes jutting out and lining every inch. Larger spikes protruded out of the top of his arms, with his "hands" now transformed into paw-like knuckles, his razor sharp claws gleaming from what little light entered the hall. A simple belt with a hole in the buckle hugged his waist snugly, while his legs were wrapped with light brown bandages.

This was Kazari, the Feline Greeed.

"The name's Kazari, currently in command since the bull boy is still recovering with the robotic arm of his."

Hazel's eyes widened, seeing the figure in front of him. He was in the face with one of the Greeed.

"Hhmm…" he hummed, beginning to circle the man. "What brings you here? You are not like that Cinder woman."

Hazel never expected to see this creature up close. From what he heard, they were Greeed, monsters formed from desires. They can never be killed unless by another Greeed or someone holding their power. He remained as calm as possible, keeping his guard up against the Feline Greeed.

"I was sent here to speak with Adam," He answered calmly.

"Oh? So Cinder is like you then, another pawn in a game?" He purred, circling him.

Inside his mind, Hazel was wondering how he knew that. He could see that behind those red 'eyes' was a creature who knew what to do, how to make things work and an observer who takes his time before he strikes. Almost like Salem.

"I always wondered who was calling the shots," he joked. "Cinder didn't seem the type to plan that event a year ago but if she was told how then it would make sense." He leaned in. "Isn't that right?"

"I admit, I'm impressed. But there is no need to learn further details." Hazel responded.

Kazari hummed in amusement. "Keeping things a secret huh?" He took a few steps forward, drawing himself closer to the man.

"More like, you don't deserve to know…" Hazel frowned. A claw extended, seeing Kazari's knuckles.

"I like to know more if I were to see things through, don't you?" He chuckled, the blades close to Hazel's neck. "I prefer to make it complete than empty."

"… I highly doubt your threats would do much to me." Hazel scoffed.

However inside, he felt intimidated by the Feline Greeed. He knew very well the Greeed are powerful since they have far more experience in combat along with their abilities. It was a mistake but he had to keep his composure.

Kazari held a devious glint in his 'eyes' as the blades receded and patted Hazel. "A pawn is always willing to protect their Queen. I can see that in your eyes. A desire to help the one to reach the end goal." He mused. "I would have killed you on the spot right now… but having more is better than less."

"I suggest you don't underestimate me, monster…." Hazel glared at him. As much as he wanted to, the gap between the two was high and Kazari had the upper hand in experience and power.

"Desires, desires. Ain't that right, Bull boy?"

Adam growled as he looked away, gripping his hand tighter as it began to bleed from it.

Kazari chuckled as he went into his human form. "Guess not, Taurus." He shrugged his shoulders, placing his hands in his pockets. "But may I remind you of what happened to your arm?"

Adam gritted his teeth at the old reminder. His right arm, the arm that allows him to hold his weapon was severed all because of OOO. The bastard who not only defeated him but was the result of the loss of his arm. He wasn't able to fight properly for months! Now his arm was replaced with a prosthetic.

He stared at his metal arm, recalling his defeat. "I swear… when I see that human again, I will kill him," he swore with a growl.


Remnants of Desires: After the Fall


Chapter 2: Menagerie, Family, Parents

Our ship arrived and made port at the harbor. We all stepped off the ship and looked around. There were so many faunus. I saw people with various animal features like additional ears, horns and even tails. So, this was Blake's home.

"Welcome to Menagerie," Blake said.

"Woah… this place is…" I got out.

"Crowded…" Sun finished.

"Animal people!" Gamel cheered.

"They're called 'Faunus' Gamel. Fau-nus." Pyrrha patted his head.

Almost everywhere you look, there would be a Faunus or a group of them. It felt like some kind of convention and the crowd didn't help much.

"You know, it's cramped but it's not so bad," I observed.

"We try to make the best of it," Blake answered.

"Isn't Menagerie way bigger? I'm sure you could expand," Sun said ignorantly.

"Two-thirds of Menagerie is a desert with dangerous wildlife," Pyrrha said. Dr. Oobleck had taught them that during one of their classes back in the day.

"Kinda reminds me of the Outback back home," I noted.

"Outback?"

"Oh right, there's this continent called Australia that has the same situation with wildlife. The other part of the land being the Outback." I explained.

"Sounds like a danger hazard," Sun noted.

"Yeah, but people have a way of taming even the wildest environments."

"And it doesn't help, that this is still a reminder… A reminder that us Faunus are still second-class citizens…" Blake frowned as her cat ears dropped.

"Hey, if you ask me, this place already feels like home. It's a place where we can belong and not have people stare at us like freaks," Sun said.

"Agreed." Pyrrha nodded with a smile.

Ankh warned Gamel, "Don't use that as an excuse to show your true form."

"Aww…. I wanna stretch though!" Gamel whined.

"You can once we reach a better place to rest." Pyrrha patted him.

"So! Where's your house at?" Sun asked, "It is that one? Ohh! Or is it that tiny one? I like the paint job on it." Sun began to point around to different houses.

Blake pointed to the biggest house in town. It was a mansion. Sun gasped, eyes wide, as he held his face with a speechless expression.

Even I was surprised by the sight of the house in question. "Blake, you never told me your family was rich," I remarked.

"I…. wouldn't consider myself…. 'rich'..." Blake said with a soft blush before she walked on ahead, leading us down the path to her home.

When we finally made it to the home Blake mentioned and it literally looks like a mansion up close! Even Sun was gaping upon the close up of the place. Blake reached her hand out but was hesitant before lowering her hand for a moment.

"You okay, Blake?" I asked, seeing her worry and nervousness.

"It's just…. I haven't… really seen my parents in a while…" Blake admitted, her cat ears folded down upon her emotion.

I gently placed my hand on her shoulder. "We are here for you, okay?" I assured as the others except Ankh nodded in agreement.

"Ugh, just hurry up," Ankh said with irritation.

"Hey man. Give her a break already." Sun crossed his arms. "It's not like you have to deal with longtime reunions."

Ankh glared at Sun, the latter flinched and raised his hands in defense.

Blake reached for the handle before using it to tap the door loudly.

"Okay… that's kinda intimidating…" Sun pointed out.

We suddenly heard the door move a bit before it opened to reveal a woman who also has cat ears, a little taller than Blake's, on her head. She seemed older than us (Even older than Ankh's host) as well, as she was wearing a black traditional outfit with one sleeve having a gold trim, black hakama, and sandals with white socks. She even has a strong resemblance to Blake. The woman's eyes widened upon seeing Blake, causing her to open the door widely. "Blake…?"

"Hey… mom…" Blake said softly. Her mother stepped forward before the Huntress felt her mother's arms wrap around her, hugging Blake lovingly.

"My baby girl…" She said with a happy yet saddened expression.

Blake was surprised at first before a soft smile formed and returned the embrace. Seeing this made me happy to see her with her family again.

But… it also brought reminders of my family before their deaths….

She broke the hug, gently before she turned to us, "Oh my… you sure made quite a lot of friends." She smiled softly at us, "I'm so grateful that you all have helped my daughter out…"

"Kali? Who's at the door?" A booming voice rang out behind her.

I jumped a bit before Blake and her mother saw who it was. In the home was a tall, muscular man with black hair, a beard and yellow eyes, showing he too was a Faunus. He wears a dark violet jacket with his chest exposed, matching sash, beige pants, and black leather boots. So that must be Blake's dad…

I am so screwed.

A gut feeling told me he was one of the very protective types of dads.

He took notice of Blake, the feeling of seeing his daughter after so long.

"Blake…. You're home…" He said, surprised before a soft smile forms on his lips, "Welcome back…"

She smiled, before the two hugged, "Please, come in," Blake's mother offered.

"Yay!" Gamel cheered.


After the touching reunion for Blake and her parents, we all entered the mansion and we all sat down while Ankh and Gamel were by the wall as the rest of us were at the table, legs crossed. It kinda reminded me how some sat by the tables in Japan.

We told them of the recent events that happened in Vale as they were shocked by the news.

Blake's mother gently set the bowl down after we finished telling them the incident. "My word…. Even though Vale may not have been the best place, they didn't deserve such a fate…." Kali said with a frown. "We were both so worried."

"Please, I knew she would be fine!" Ghira said, crossing his arms with a chuckle.

"She's more than fine! She's a flipping ninja! You should see her moves!" Sun smiled.

"What do you mean by that?" Ghira turned to him with narrowed eyes.

I elbowed Sun, causing him to realize he selected the wrong choice of words. He panicked as he began explaining to him exactly instead of saying things that others would think differently. Guess Sun does definitely remind me of Zack. Maybe that's why we got along so well when we first met.

"So, Blake? Why don't you tell us about this nice young man next to you?" Kali asked, pointing at me.

Oh boy...

"He's my boyfriend…" Blake answered with a blush dusting her cheek, her parents now looking at me.

I swallowed heavily upon seeing Blake's father as he stared at me with a stare that felt like he was staring right into my very soul. I mean, I am in front of Blake's parents for pete sake! I was nervous as hell! So this is how dad felt when he met mom's parents.

"I-It's nice to meet you both," I greeted nervously. "I'm Enrique Alderete."

Ghira remained quiet as he stared at me intensely. I felt extremely nervously, his state was bringing discomfort.

"Uh… d-did… I do something wrong?" I asked.

"It depends, Enrique…. Have you ever caused harm to my daughter?" He asked me.

"No way," I quickly waved my hands in panic.

"Then tell me… Why do I smell death on you?" He noted.

"It's… a long story…"

"I don't know if I feel comfortable with you dating my daughter." He admitted, crossing his arms.

"Dad, he is a good person," Blake defended.

"With what has happened, I don't think you can trust him, Blake." Ghira frowned.

I lowered my head slightly upon those words. That was a low blow… "Look, Mr. Belladonna, I understand that you are worried about her but I would never hurt Blake. I may be human but I care about her. She made me feel alive and I am happy to be with her."

"Oh, how sweet!" Kali smiled brightly before whispering to Blake, yet not quite quietly enough, "I like him…."

"Mom!" Blake blushed in embarrassment until we heard the front door sounding out, catching our attention.

"Darn it! I completely forgot about the meeting!" Ghira realized. He was about to slam his fist on the table but Kali stopped him.

"Ghira…"

"It's alright. It won't take long." He said before he stood up and walked off towards the front door.

"Is everything okay?" Blake asked her mom.

"Of course. Just someone who wanted to see your father." Kali reassured.

"Who?"

"The White Fang, of course."

"WHAT!?" My team and Sun all rose to our feet.

"Those psychos are here too?!" Sun got out.

We quickly rushed to the door while Gamel was oblivious to what was going on, still sitting by the wall. When my team and Sun made to the door we saw two other individuals that Ghira was talking to. In front of the doorway stood two Faunus. One looked to have jackal ears, while the other seemed to have a wolf's tail. They both were wearing red robes with white underclothes underneath.

"Dad!" Blake called out to him.

"Blake. What's wrong?" Ghira turned to her. The two individuals took notice of her.

"Miss Belladonna," The first person noticed.

"We had no idea you'd returned," the second one added on.

Blake looks at her father, "What are you doing talking to these people?"

"It's nothing Blake. Just something that needs to be taken care of." Ghira said.

"Mr. Belladonna, the White Fang are responsible for harming innocent lives!" I said, clenching my hands.

"What is he talking about?" Ghira looked at Blake.

"The White Fang…." Blake started, looking at us then to me before she turned back to her father, "The White Fang was there at the Fall of Beacon. They killed many innocent lives and released Grimm into the school… They went on a purge and killed many people… Humans and Faunus alike…."

Ghira's eyes widened before he frowned, turning his attention back to the two White Fang Emissaries, "Is this true?" He asked them.

"Sadly, Your Grace. It is…"

Blake frowned in disgust at the two. "Don't act like-"

"But believe us, the Vale branch does not speak for the White Fang. We came here to see if Chief Ghira would like to join our quest to locate and stop Adam Taurus." The Wolf Emissary said. "After all, he was once High Leader of the White Fang back in those days."

"The Adam bastard?" I growled at the mention of the Faunus.

"I take it you knew him?"

"Yeah, I knew Adam," I smiled. "I chopped off his arm."

This noticeably alarmed the two White Fang representatives, even Blake's father seemed surprised to hear this. Was Adam really that big of a deal?

"It was the choice I made and I don't regret it one bit… after what he has done, he deserved it."

"Rest assured, the punishment for Adam Taurus will not go unjust…." The Jackal Emissary said.

"And how can I be sure of that?" Ghira questioned.

They looked like they were about to say something, but they kept quiet, unable to answer.

"I think it's better if you leave..." Ghira said.

"As… you wish…" They bowed.

"And Miss Blake, it is sad to see you stop fighting the good fight. But we, nonetheless, believe that you have chosen wisely." The Jackal Emissary noted.

"Who said I'm done fighting?" She responded.

They were silent once more before bowing, "Well, should you feel like coming back to us, Sister IIyia would be delighted to hear that." The Wolf Emissary noted before they bowed and left the house.

I remarked as the two White Fang members left, "You know, the more I learn about the White Fang, the more I think it's a cult."

"It didn't use to be like this. We wanted to coexist with humans as equals," Ghira sighed.

This brought reminders of the history back on Earth. Although it was surprising to learn Blake's dad was the former leader of the White Fang. Now I know what Blake meant when she said she was 'born into it'.

Seeing the two members gone, Ghira firmly closes the door while his wife moves to stand closer to face him.

"So… those guys are creepy," Sun commented, causing Ghira to look at him.

"I don't like you," Ghira said to Sun. He then looked at me, "You, however, I'm reserving judgment for. But is it true that you cut off Adam's arm?"

"He cut off our friend's arm first. I was just returning the favor," I answered. "An eye for an eye as the saying goes."

"Adam's a skilled warrior. It would take significant skill to injure him like that. You're either very strong or very lucky."

"He's a bit of both, not to mention stubborn too," said Ankh. "I had to teach the idiot here how to fight."

"Hey!" I looked at Ankh with annoyance.

"He's not wrong, but he could've worded it a bit differently," Pyrrha added.

Not her too! Even Pyrrha had to agree with Ankh?!

"I tell it like it is. If my students are being idiots, I tell it to their face," Ankh scoffed.

"So you're a teacher at Beacon?" Khali asked.

The Bird Greeed's shoulders slumped with slight annoyance at the old memory. "More like forced," He grumbled.

"Professor Ankh was recruited under unusual circumstances," Pyrrha explained. They couldn't tell Blake's family that Ankh was really a sentient monster arm and currently possessing a comatose human.

"Then Blake must be an exceptional student," Khali smiled.

"Meh, she's passable," Ankh shrugged.

"Don't mind Ankh. He says that about everyone. That's a compliment coming from him," I said. "You will get used to it once you get to know him."

"It sounds like you two known each other longer than the others," said Ghira.

"Ankh and I were accepted in Beacon at around the same time. We even end up in the same dorm," I said.

"A teacher and a student rooming together? Sounds very unconventional."

"Considering I have him fight certain… enemies," Ankh explained. He didn't know if they should be aware of the Greeed knowing that they had full traits of animals.

Of course, Gamel chose that moment to blurt out. "We fight meanie Greeed!" He received a fist to the top of his head by Ankh.

"Greeed?" Kali blinked.

Ankh sighed irritably, "Stupid Gamel…" he looked at the two Faunus present. He raised his right arm, the limb changing to the Greeed arm while Gamel cheered before he too revealed his true form.

"Oh my…." Kali gasped.

"This… is something I've never seen before…" Ghira got out. "One who could be mistaken as a… special Faunus and the other having… a limb of a bird."

"It's who we are, Greeed, not Faunus," Ankh grumbled. "For 800 years."

"How… is that even possible?" Ghira questioned.

"I rather not tell you. Some parts of history are meant to stay secret from others. That's that."

"We understand." Ghira nodded, knowing not to pry any further.

Ankh then bopped Gamel's head again, causing the latter to fall to the ground. "And that's for blurting it out, you numbskull!"

"Waah! Pyrrha!" Gamel got up before running to her, crying from the blow.

Blake's parents looked at me, "You'll get used to it, sadly…"

"Indeed…" Ghira nodded.

"Well, I think we've had enough excitement for once… How about some food?" Kali offered.

"Sign me up!" Sun smiled.


As the afternoon came around, we were now eating dinner but I was still nervous like before. Why do you ask? Well, there is one reason why I was nervous.

Ghira was still staring at me, literally making me feel uneasy as I eat. His gaze felt like it was testing me, making sure I don't make a mistake.

"Hey… relax…" Blake smiled softly, placing her hand on mine to reassure me.

"Your dad has been staring at me for nearly 4 hours now, how can I?" I responded quietly.

"He's just processing what to think about you is all. Don't let him bother you." She smiled.

"Alright..." I sighed. "You know, I came to realize where you got your looks from, Blake."

Blake's mom was a beautiful woman, and I could tell that my girlfriend really took after her.

"So, Enrique, was it?" Kali asked my attention to her. I nodded. She giggled softly before smiling, "Thought of taking my daughter's hand in marriage yet?"

I choked on the next bite of the food while Blake blushed heavily at the question. "Mom!"

"What? It's an honest question." Kali said, "We were worried you wouldn't find someone, but here you are, with a boyfriend. And at times like this, marriage this early isn't that bad of an idea."

"I think it's a little too early for the two, Kali," Ghira said as he stared at me, causing me to swallow the food immediately upon noticing the stare. I swore I felt my stomach drop as well.

"Oh hush, we were the same age as them when we got married." She smiled at her husband. "Plus, weren't you the one who wanted to get married, more so than me?" She smirked at Ghira.

He coughed lightly as Kali giggled. "How long have you been with him, Blake?" She asked.

"A-A year," she said with a soft blush.

"My, my… I'm surprised you two haven't gone further than that." Kali smiled. "What can you tell us about yourself, Enrique?"

"W-Well… I was a normal person before I was given an opportunity to enroll at Beacon…" I started. "Before Beacon, I actually never attended a combat school."

"So, your parents must've been proud to learn they had a proud warrior as their son," Ghira noted.

I flinched before lowering my head upon hearing that. "They couldn't see…" They were confused until I continued. "My dad died when I was 11 and my mom and little sister… died in front of me when I was 14. Both on the same day my father died, 3 years apart. I was practically an orphan after their deaths."

Ghira and Kali looked at me with surprise but I could tell they didn't expect to hear about how I have been living my life on my own since that day. "Oh… I… didn't know. I'm truly sorry to bring up bad memories." Ghira apologized.

I shook my head with a small smile, "It's alright. At least I know they are watching over me from the great beyond."

"May…. I ask what were they like?" Kali requested softly, wanting to know more about my family to understand who I really am.

"My mom was a teacher for a normal school for kids," I answered. "She was the reason why I got interested in reading books, most being about history."

"Heh, she sounds like the one every other mother would want to befriend." Kali smiled.

I smiled upon the memories before I continued. "There's my little sister. Her name was Marie and she was someone who wanted to help people. She was there to cheer them up."

"I can see why she meant a lot to you." Kali nodded.

"And then there's my dad," I smiled. "He was someone I looked up to a lot when I was little. He liked to make jokes at times but he was also a soldier."

"For Atlas?" Ghira guessed, only for me to shake my head.

"Not like them but for a different group that is different than Atlas."

"Do tell?"

"My dad was a soldier for a group called the Marines. He taught me about fighting for a cause you believe in," I told Blake's father. "Even he knew what was right and what was wrong. He had to make difficult choices to protect others along with his comrades during combat. It's there saying, Semper Fi or in translation 'Always Faithful'. He may have been faithful to the military but my dad was faithful to his family and those close to him. To him, family comes first."

"I believe your father was one in a million. Someone who would always know what to do, and knows how to fix it." Ghira nodded, "I respect for what your father has done, even if I haven't met him."

I nodded, "They may be gone but I made a promise to myself and to my family that I will reach out and help everyone. To help people see that having more isn't the answer… I help them see that they should cherish with what they have instead of wanting more before they make the mistake that will change them…" I raised my head. "That's what I care about. To reach out and help them."

Upon hearing my little speech, Ghira offered a faint smile, "I believe your family would be proud of what you've done here, Enrique. I could see that behind those eyes of yours is someone who not only helps people but one who is selfless. Most would lash out at the world after an experience like that but you, you remained the same."

I nodded softly at his words. "T-Thanks Mr. Belladonna."

"But…. I'm still reserving my judgment on you…" He noted. "However… I at least know where you came from, and your morals. And I'm sure your parents and we would've gotten along very well." He smiled, patting my back although a bit harder than Yang's. It felt like the type of pat that says 'Try to hurt her and you will regret it'. Now that gave me chills at the image.

"R-Right…" I nodded nervously but in my mind, 'I'm so screwed…'

"Come now, Ghira, you're making him nervous," Kali said.

"Right, right." He chuckled, sitting back down with his wife.

I let out a breath of relief, for now at least. This was gonna take a long while for me to get used to.


As the night started, Blake's mother was kind enough to allow the rest of my team, Sun, and Gamel to use the guest bedrooms. But for me, I was stuck with Gamel, Sun, and Ankh in one room since Ghira said he doesn't trust me enough to be in the same room with Blake.

"Peachy weren't they?" Sun chuckled nervously.

"Shut up," Ankh said from the lower bunk. "I can't believe I am stuck with you, three morons."

"Hey, we aren't too keen on it either," Sun responded.

"Bed!" Gamel cheered from the upper bunk on Ankh's side as he tossed the pillow across the room before he was suddenly enveloped in blankets like a cocoon, rolling around on the bed he was on.

"Easy, big guy. Don't wanna break the bed now, do ya?" Sun said to him. "Speaking of which, you should have seen yourself, Enrique. You looked like you were gonna pass out when you met Blake's parents."

"It's not funny, Sun!" I said from the other lower bunk. "How did you think I feel when I met her parents?!"

"Hard to tell with the sweat." He joked, only to receive a pillow tossed to his face.

"The real problem though was this idiot." Ankh pointed to Gamel, "Thanks to him, we had to reveal ourselves to kitty cat's parents… I rather not have any more troubles, thank you very much."

"Look on the bright side, at least they didn't run away from you two like others would," Sun shrugged, only to receive another pillow thrown at his face.

"Why did we bring this idiot along with us, again?" Ankh groaned, pointing to Sun.

"He wanted to help us, remember?" I reminded.

"Couldn't we just leave him in the ocean?" Ankh scoffed.

"Hey come on, at least I helped you guys beat that Sea Dragon Grimm yesterday." Sun crossed his arms.

"The only time he's useful…" Ankh spat out, receiving two pillows to the face by Sun. Ankh's eye twitches before he growled and grabbed the pillow and tossed it with all his strength at the monkey Faunus.

"Don't you think we should calm down a bit?" I asked the two.

"Not until he keeps his mouth shut," Ankh pointed at him.

"Says the one who can't stop insulting people!" Sun responded.

"I'm merely stating the truth to you idiots," He huffed.

"Oh yeah? I heard you were acting all nice and lovey-dovey to the Sara girl." Sun countered.

"What did you say?" Ankh's arm twitched.

That's not good…

"S-Sun, I think you are taking it a bit too far," I gulped.

"Cause to me, it looks like you're in lo-" Ankh tackled him off the bunk as he pins Sun to the ground.

"Hahaha! Funny fight!" Gamel clapped happily.

Ankh's Greeed arm was present as flames were flickering in the feathers. "I dare you to say that one more time, Monkey," He threatened. "And I assure you, you won't look pretty after I'm through with you."

"Okay, okay!" The Monkey Faunus yelps. "I'll be quiet!"

Sun learned an important lesson: do not push the 'Sara button'.

Ankh glared at Sun for another minute before releasing his grip on him. The Bird Greeed made his way back to his bunk and turns away, his back facing us.

"Still… it is also surprising to hear that Blake's dad was once the leader of the White Fang." Sun noted.

"Hey, I was as surprised as you are," I agreed. "I guess we know what Blake meant when she said she was born into it."

"No kidding." The male Faunus stretched. "Well! I'm gonna get some shut-eye. See ya in the morning!" He turned around and allowed himself to sleep.

I watched the three fall asleep before I looked out the window, seeing the shattered moon lighting the night sky. "I wonder how Blake and Pyrrha are doing…?" I sighed to myself.


"Do you think my dad hates him?" Blake turned to Pyrrha.

The two were in Blake's own room as Pyrrha was in a sleeping bag she had. Blake too was nervous from earlier since she introduced her lover to her parents.

"I'm sure he doesn't hate him, Blake," Pyrrha assured. "Your dad did say he was reserving his judgment on him."

"You don't understand... " Blake frowned, resting her head on her knees. "My dad can be overprotective at times..."

"What about… him?" She asked, trying to not bring up bad memories.

"I never told them…" Blake admitted, "And I rather forget him forever…."

"Blake, I'm sure your father would approve of Enrique. I mean, he has done so much for us."

"Yes but…. Dad can be a bit… harsh…" She sighed.

"Well, your mom doesn't seem to mind him," Pyrrha smiled.

"True…" Blake smiled softly. "Although it was a little surprising when she mentioned marriage…" The memory of it now caused her to blush heavily from that, unsure what to say about what her mother said. "I-I don't know why she would think of that. I-I mean…"

"You two are technically adults," the redhead pointed out, referring to their current age. "It obvious she knows that you two went that far and is giving you her support."

"But… marriage?" The kunoichi felt her cheeks burn red, steam rising out of her head. "I-It's too soon…"

"You two have been together for a year now, right?."

"Y-Yes…" She nodded.

"And you two have been spending a lot of time together before and after the incident?" Pyrrha pressed on.

"We barely left each other's side… Though we do get some fresh air on our own. But we've never stayed apart for so long," Blake admitted.

Pyrrha smiled, "See? You two have spent so much time together and you both love each other to the point you stay by each other's side, never staying apart for so long. Don't you think you two should go to that step?"

"I'm…. scared…." She admitted. "I'm scared to go that far, especially due to Adam chasing us… And should Enrique lose… I don't know what I would do anymore…."

Pyrrha gently places her hand on her friend's shoulder, "As long as we are there for him, he will make it through, Blake." She assured her teammate.

"How? How do we know we won't lose him?" Blake turned to her, a worried and scared look on her face.

"Blake, you remember when he defeated Gara?" She nodded. "It's because you helped him become who he is now. He isn't a voidless person since the day you gave him a reason to live."

"I-I…. I just don't want him or you guys to get hurt because of me…" She said, "Seeing those White Fang members, it brought back too much pain for what Adam did….. And I don't want him to ever be able to force me back into that world…"

"He won't, we promise." The redhead vowed.

Blake looked at Pyrrha, seeing the truth in her eyes as she takes a deep breath, as she then smiles and nods, "Thank you Pyrrha…. Guess… his hold on me is still as strong as when I left them…"

"Just remember that Enrique will be there for you, okay?"

"Right," She smiled, hugging her friend once more before bed, as Pyrrha was first to fall asleep. Blake looks out the window, seeing the shattered moon before she rested her head on the pillow, thinking over her words.


Meanwhile, in the other part of the home, Kali and Ghira were both getting ready for bed.

"I'm glad our daughter made friends," said Kali. "And they seem like a good bunch."

"A bunch of weirdoes if you ask me," Ghira remarked.

"Well, they do have their quirks," Kali said kindly. "Especially that young man our daughter is dating."

"I guess she still lives by our philosophy to live as equals with humans," Ghira smiled.

They were aware of the history between Humans and Faunus, despite the discrimination, there have been some relationships known to form between the two races. The proof of the equality being shown in front of the two.

A human and a Faunus in love with each other.

"He surprised me when he said he chopped off Adam's arm. Adam was always one of the strongest, that's how he managed to lead his group unopposed."

Just his name left a sour taste in his mouth. He knew how Adam is… it was unsettling, even hearing what the White Fang has done. However, to learn that someone finally showed him defeat, it showed that there was someone willing to stand up and fight him.

Speaking of which, he needed to see how his daughter is doing. "I'm gonna go check on Blake." He said until Kali saw the real reason to why he wanted to check on their daughter

"Ghira..."

"I know she's not a little girl anymore, but she's still our daughter and you know how teenagers are."

"They are young adults now," She pointed out.

"True, but she is still my daughter." He argued with a smirk before leaving the room. Kali could only let out a sigh upon hearing his response.


I was twisting and turning in bed, finding myself unable to sleep. I groaned softly before sitting up and looked at the other three who were fast asleep. Ankh was snoring loudly, Gamel was wrapped in blankets like a cocoon and giggling quietly in his sleep, and Sun was sleeping while his monkey tail was swaying left and right as he sleeps.

I was the only one in the room who hasn't fallen asleep. "Great…" I muttered.

Maybe some fresh air wouldn't hurt for once. I used to do it back in my world whenever I needed some time to myself to clear my head.

Getting out of bed, I reached for my coat and boots before putting them on. I left the room and made my way outside. Once outside, I felt the cool air brushing against me, the familiar feeling of how it was back home.

I looked at my surroundings, searching for a place to relax until I notice the rooftop. It seemed good enough place to clear my head. Using my Semblance, I allowed ice to form steps that I carefully landed on before landing on the rooftop while the ice evaporated into mist.

I sat down, beginning to gaze at the stars in the night sky. Coming to Menagerie… was a nice change for once. It felt so peaceful here, almost making me forget what was happening outside of this land.

Not to mention, not having to fight for a bit… it felt relaxing.

I reached into my pocket before pulling out the O-Driver. I know I only use it to combat any Yummies we come across or large Grimm like that Geist and Sea Dragon Grimm but it sure has been a while since I actually use it for other fights...

"Enrique? I didn't realize you were up."

I look back to see Blake wearing her sleepwear.

"Oh, hey Blake," I smiled upon seeing my girlfriend. "I just wanted to get fresh air to clear my head since I couldn't sleep."

She sat down next to me as the both of us look at the stars. "Couldn't sleep either?" she assumed.

I shook my head, "Yeah…. Guess the same as you?" I asked her as she nodded to me.

As the both of us were staring at the stars, I decided to start a conversation.

"Your parents are nice," I smiled.

"Sorry about my dad… I guess after being gone for so long, he must have been worried and became protective," said the kunoichi.

"I-It's alright," I assured. "I mean, I can understand your dad being worried after what has been going on along with myself being Human."

"Truth be told, dad cares for humans, just as much as any Faunus." She admitted. "So… what do you think of Menagerie?"

"It's a nice place, to be honest. Seeing your home, I can almost forget that there's a war coming out there…" I responded, seeing the buildings from here. "It… has been a while since I have seen something peaceful…"

"True…" she responded, having the same feeling.

"Hey Blake," She turned to me. "I'm glad you got to see your parents again."

A small smile graced her lips before noticing my expression. "Are you okay?"

I looked away for a moment before I let out a soft sigh. "Seeing you three… it brought up memories of my family…" I responded. "I know my family is watching me from the great beyond but… I still miss them…"

"Enrique…"

"Even when I saw them when I broke free from that Greeedification… it still hurts…" I lowered my head. "It hurts that even with the smallest amount of time of seeing them… they vanished from my life again…"

"Don't think they are gone forever, Enrique," she whispered as she hugged me. "You got a chance to see them. Isn't that what counts?" I turned my head to her. "They helped you break free. They helped you see that you have a desire. If it wasn't for them… I wouldn't have been able to see you again…"

"Blake…"

"And no matter what, I'm sure they're proud of you and happy to see you succeed…." She smiles softly.

I return the embrace, giving a small nod in response. "I… I guess you're right about that…" I responded.

"Of course I am." she smiled, "I am your girlfriend after all." She kissed my cheek.

I chuckled softly before realizing something. "Aren't you afraid your dad will catch us up here?" I asked nervously.

"It adds a thrill, don't you think?" She responded with a small yet sly grin.

I chuckled, "Never pegged you to be a naughty kitty."

"Shouldn't you two be asleep?" A familiar voice asked, causing the both of us to jump a bit before we look down at the balcony and saw Ghira, his arms crossed.

"Dad!"

"M-Mr. Belladonna!"

"So, sneaking out of the house at night, huh?" Ghira asked, glaring at us (more specifically me).

"Sorry, sir! I couldn't sleep," I apologized. "So I thought going outside would clear my head after what has been going on."

"I see," Ghira nodded. He looked me in the eye. It was like he was trying to see if I was lying or not. After what felt like minutes, "Alright. But you two should go back to your rooms."

"Y-Yes, sir," I quickly nodded before using my Semblance to make my way down to the ground. Upon landing on the ground, I let out a breath of relief. Her dad sure can be scary…

I looked up at the moon once more, thinking of how Ruby and the others are doing. Not once I forgot about them… I am still worried about them…


The young Rider wasn't the only one looking at the shattered moon. In another location, red petals were flowing in the wind as a female figure was staring at the moon. Sporting a white high-neck décolletage blouse. Her outfit retains the black and red skirt from her default clothing, but her waist cincher has been replaced with an overbust corset. A black belt bordered in red holds the magnetic clip for a weapon and its ammunition. She also has brown straps on her blouse that allow her to wear a small brown backpack.

In lieu of her full black stockings, she was wearing thigh-high stockings reaching to a few inches below the hem of her skirt, decorated by an image of a long-stemmed rose. Her red-soled black boots contain four straps and buckles apiece and may be slightly taller than her previous boots.

Her cloak has a singular clip on the right shoulder in the shape of an emblem, replacing the cross-shaped clips. Both the cloak and the stockings show tears from hard wear, somewhat similar to someone's cape. Her hair has also grown slightly longer, maintaining the color gradation from black at the roots to red at the tips.

In her holster was a red rectangular weapon that looked capable of mecha-shifting.

The hood lowers due to the wind, revealing her silver eyes. This was Ruby Rose, who is now 16 years old.

It has been a year since Beacon fell… but she never forgot what happened… but it also gave her the motivation to stop those responsible for their actions.

She stared at the moon, remembering those words that echoed in her mind when she became unconscious on that day.

'It's gonna be okay Ruby…' the familiar male voice echoed in her mind.

She never forgot her first friend at Beacon. She was also worried about her teammates, even her own sister. All those questions wander in her head. The scythe wielder could only ponder of what is happening since a full year has passed since Beacon fell. But now, she was heading to Mistral with Nora, Jaune, and Ren to find any leads to stop those like Cinder. Like Kazari.

She looked over her shoulder to see the remnants of Team JNPR fast asleep before she reached into her pocket and pulled out her Scroll. She pressed a few keys before she found some old videos and pictures she kept of her time at Beacon.

A soft smile on her face formed on her face as she looks through the several pictures she took of everyone, from the first day of school, to right before the Single's Match of the Vytal Festival. Each one was precious to her and she hoped those days could return.

She misses those days… As she continues to look at each one, she noticed one video she never got the chance to watch. She noticed it was sent to her on the first day the Single Round began. Guess she forgot to watch it.

She pressed the key before the video began to play. The video showed the young Multi-King having trouble with the camera at first before he finally got it right.

'Well… it has been a long while since I ever done a recording like this…' the screen showed Enrique as he chuckled softly. 'But I guess after all that went down after being free of that Greeedification, I thought it was a good time to do this. To start… I wanted to say thanks to you guys for all the help you have given me. Showing me that I am not alone…' she could see the smile he was showing. 'Getting to know you guys was one of those moments I didn't want to forget. It made me happy.'

'Enrique! You better hurry up or you are gonna be late for that stupid tournament.' Ankh called out nearby.

'Coming!' He called out to the Bird Greeed, 'Anyways… I'm glad I met you all, and I'm glad I came here to start a new life…. You guys will always be my family no matter what. And thank you for that. To Yang, your puns are kinda bad, no offense.'

Hearing this made Ruby giggle.

'To Weiss, you may be kinda cruel to some people but you seem to have a soft side to others even to Zwei. To Jaune, you may have some things to learn through that dense head of yours but I know you can make it through any challenges ahead. To Pyrrha, you should help out Jaune so he can get better with his skills. To Ren, try and make sure Nora doesn't eat all the cake Kougami sends. I still wonder how in the world she can eat a whole cake in one bite. To Nora, try and not be hyperactive whenever you eat that cake Kougami sends.'

Ruby smiled softly upon hearing his words.

'To Blake, meeting you was something I never want to forget. You helped me find my Lost Feeling. If it wasn't for you, I wouldn't have been able to realize my feelings for you. And to Ruby...'

Ruby stared at the video upon hearing her name.

'Ruby, you may act like a kid despite your age but I know you still have that dream of being a huntress. Never give up on that dream, I know that someday you will be that Huntress you always dreamt of becoming. Ozpin may be right, fate has a way for others. You may be a young teenager but you are also a leader to your team.'

Hearing this cause tears to well up in her eyes.

'Since the day I met you, I realized that you remind me of my little sister.' In the video, she saw him grab his locket and opened it to show the image of the little girl. Her eyes widen upon seeing the image of his little sister for the first time. Marie almost looks like her when she was little, only with long dark brown hair and dark brown color eyes.

'Heh, maybe it is one of the reasons why we got along so well,' Enrique chuckled as he stared at the locket, 'But… even without the resemblance, and besides being the leader of RWBY, I still found you as a good friend.' As she listened, her tears finally escape from her eyes, "So… I believe you can do this, and become the best Huntress out there. So, no matter what trials await you, don't give into them and keep pushing until you finally reach your goal. Just remember to reach out to your dream and never give up. I'm cheering for you.' He smiled before the recording finally ended.

Ruby wiped her tears away as she looked back up at the night sky, 'Don't worry, Enrique…. I will. I'll find those responsible for what happened, and make them pay. Then... We'll come back and become the best team and friends of Huntsman and Huntresses around.' Ruby said in her thoughts with a now positive outlook.

"Oh, now he tells me!"

Ruby blinked before she turned her head to see Nora already eating the cake Kougami gave her before they began their travel, as she groans from the late information. She too has changed a bit since Beacon fell. She retains her gloves and white top, though the heart cut-out on the top now has a diagonal cut through it. Over the shirt, she wears a zippered blue-black bomber jacket with a damaged print of her emblem visible on the back and pink stripes along the sleeves. The pink bands of the jacket tighten on her upper arms. Her skirt is slightly longer with pleats that create some flair and two wide belt loops at the waist for her matching belt. She wears knee-high pink socks just visible above her calf-length boots, which are white with pink laces.

"You're awake?" She blinked.

"Why wouldn't I be when I know I have all of this cake to eat?" She responded rhetorically.

Ruby sweatdropped before she said, "I… think you should take his advice about eating the cake."

"Come on, Mr. Kougami makes the best cake out there!" The orange-haired huntress pouted.

"You don't need that much sugar this late at night…" Ruby pointed out.

"Fine," she placed the cake in a box then placed the box in a bag. "I'm surprised you kept that recording though Ruby."

"It's just a reminder for me…. A reminder of the good times, and what we'll get back once this mission is complete." Ruby admitted, "I can't let go of this, it's my treasure."

Nora smiled softly, "I'm sure you teammates are alright, including Enrique. We know he won't give up."

Ruby nodded with confidence, "And neither will we."


CURRENT MEDALS:

Blazing: Taka (x2), Kujaku (x1), Condor (x1)

Scorching: Lion (x1), Tora (x2), Cheetah (x1)

Strongest: Kuwagata (x1), Kamakiri (x1), Batta (x1)

Legendary: Kobura (x1), Kame (x1), Wani (x1)

Water: Shachi (x1), Tako (x1), Unagi (x1)

Gravity: Sai (x3), Gorilla (x1), Zou (x2)

Invincible: Ptera (x1), Tricera (x1), Tyranno (x1)

Ultimate King: Super Taka (x1), Super Tora (x1), Super Batta (x1)


(NEXT TIME)

"You will sleep… your deepest desire will be granted through sleep…" It said once again before it grabbed my helmet, its arm glowing before I suddenly felt… tired…

"Henshin!" She announced.

"What are you doing?" A voice asked.

Next Time: Dreams, Proto-Birth, A New Resolve


A/N: Well folks, that is it for this chapter to the story! It seems our Rider has finally met Blake's parents and to say the least, is nervous about them. Not to mention, what Kazari has planned for Adam. What will happen next? And how will things go for the group in Menagerie? We will have to find out in the next chapter everyone. Plus, I started on making the cover for this story so look forward to it. Don't forget to favorite, follow, and review. Stay in the shadows, everyone!