Disclaimer: I will never own RWBY and the Tales of series because they will always belong to RoosterTeeth and Namco Bandai.
Italics are thoughts
Bold and Italics are flashbacks
**Communications through scrolls and other devices
Chapter 6 A New Destination
(Time skip: two months later after the heroes were sent to Remnant)
(Location: The Heart Oasis capital city of Vacuo Kingdom of Vacuo Sanus continent Remnant)
It was just another beautiful sunny day in the usual market place of the dessert city. Wait scratch that, true it was a beautiful day but lately after these months passed by the heat seems to have increased. Those resident of the dessert kingdom knew very well this season was the time of the heatwave that lasts around five months. Two down three to go.
It was a real scourge but to those of the market place didn't bothered them, it was another regular day of business. During these few months an addition has been made a certain twin swordsman has become successful and survive these hot and harsh conditions. Lloyd Irving has become from a poor Vacuo citizen into quite the famous celebrity. Well not exactly celebrity but he has been able to get used to living in this city.
After two months the twin swordsman was able to set up his own shop and start his own business. Even if he didn't remember how he was able to know but Lloyd has had a lack to craft things from wood and create accessories like necklaces and bracelets. So he went with the flow and decided to make his own shop art crafts and accessories. Though he was positive in mind, he was unsure if he'll be able to make a profit quickly.
Many of the market place veterans has spent years trying to sky rocket their business, anything to earn more then when they started. So the teen had a long way to go before he can make it big. However in two months he was able to make some impressive sales. His bracelets and necklaces sell well not to mention his wooden figurines have become the talk of the town.
Now at first Lloyd had no idea what carve for the figurines until he gave it shot with the first idea that popped in his head. So he started with carving the headmaster of Shade Academy and shortly he followed with students of said school. He honestly it wasn't going to be a big sale but it slowly brought the attention of the consumers. Good thing many huntsmen and huntresses in training from Shade would travel to the market place every now and then so he was able to have some inspiration.
Then he decided to add something new to the wood craft list. The twin swordsman bought a book about the creatures of Grimm and after days of seeing what they looked like he went to the next addition of crafting Grimm. The wooden figurines of the creatures made quite a buzz in the dessert city soon they started selling like hot cakes.
The wooden Grimm became his signature sensation and people would recognize him as the" Grimm Craftsman". Lloyd really didn't care what kind of silly titles they would called him as long as he continues to make money from his fair business. The reason he needed to buy a book of Grimm because in this region it was impossible for the creatures to come. The kingdom of Vacuo didn't had a need to have guards or huntsmen patrolling for attacks of Grimm.
Because of the intense heat they would never bothered coming here even if there was a large amount of negative emotions to attract them. The majority of those that graduated from Shade Academy would obviously leave Vacuo and travel somewhere else where their services would be require. Maybe that was the reason his figurines sell a lot, the citizens have never lay eyes on a Grimm before.
In the old days they only had to worried about attacks from invaders that came from the near by villages, especially from Vale since it was located across the sea. That was before they were attacked and they had to learn the hard way about surviving. So the fact nobody here has ever seen a Grimm gave him the edge to sell so many of the wooden Grimm. But in all honesty Lloyd knew very well he would have never had a successful business if it wasn't for the clandestine matches or the underground fighting ring.
His alter ego the Crimson Avenger has gotten more famous than his wooden Grimm figurines. In two months he has had a stunning winning streak still keeping his title as the number one contender to fight the champion. Even if it was wrong because they were illegal matches it was the only reason why he has a business today and why he has a scroll too.
But even as successful as he was now Lloyd had a feeling something was amiss. His forgotten memories was an issue but that wasn't the reason that he was bothered. Its like he was feeling down about something he couldn't explain why. He had everything he needs, a successful business, enough lien to sustain him, a scroll he was making it big in Vacuo and yet he felt like there was something more he wanted to do with his life.
When he first woke up in this city he was empty not remembering anything from his past he didn't know what to do he was basically a stranger in a strange land. Now that he has assure of way to live his life in a better way he felt like he wanted more for him. Or maybe it was this town, he didn't felt safe here. That could be it when you were at the market place you were needed to have like twenty eyes on the front and on the back of your head.
The market place was filled with all kinds of thieves and each had their own ways to distract you so they can make their move on you. In two months since he started his business Lloyd has seen them all in action. The quiet one, he doesn't say a word he's so quiet you never noticed he passed you by until you realized your money's gone.
The bold one who will supposedly" accidentally" bumped on you, apologized and leave with your wallet without looking back. The clever one he's usually the thief who is very talkative and easy to hang with but its all a deception so he can take the perfect chance to rob from you. That was just the types that were the most common around here. It was a good thing the twin swordsman hasn't been robbed yet and he hoped he never becomes a victim.
But it wasn't just your lien you had to look after from getting stolen. The thieves will steal anything that has value to them so aside from money, anything else that has caught their eyes that they can probably sell cheaper than the sellers themselves, they will take it. They will steal the very products the merchants are selling and anything of good value in them so Lloyd came prepare for the situation.
First he will ALWAYS leave his wallet hidden in his room back at the inn, second he will also hide his material blade and leave it back at the room too and finally third, he will ALWAYS covered his right hand. The last thing the twin swordsman wanted was for his exsphere to get stolen. The exsphere itself had that value and appearance that if a thief sees it they will see it as a very expensive jewel. He would be damned if he let them take something as valuable as the exsphere.
Now Lloyd knew his exsphere was the reason why he was stronger, faster and he could jump higher than normal people would. But there was something else that was telling him the small round sphere in his right hand was more than something to give him strength. The young swordsman kept checking around the crowd while show casing his art crafts and accessories keeping an eye from anyone suspicious.
Sadly the thieves were the last of his worries because even the merchant themselves can steal from you if you're not careful enough. If your business is more successful than theirs they can hate you and steal from you out of envy. Maybe that was the reason why he hated the market place, many of the merchants were greedy and selfish. Of course they will be upset if someone else business was more popular than their own. But it didn't gave them the right to steal from you because they envy the success of your business.
Of all the merchants Lloyd thought Amad was among the good and honest people. In two months he made a good friend of the owner of the rug store. The older man was happy he was able to opened his own business after working hard for the position. If he considers winning match after match in the underground fighting ring as hard work, since it was illegal to begin with.
The twin swordsman caught a glimpse of Amad friendly waving at him while he attending a customer and he waved back. Then he was busy because there were a couple of customers staring at his wooden Grimm figurines. Another busy day at the market place, another busy day at his shop and he wouldn't want it any other way. Still that lingering feeling was still present, that he didn't belong in this city.
As always Lloyd received them with a big smile trying to forget why he was feeling this way. Yet again more of his wooden Grimm were sold so quickly he will eventually have to make more before the week ends. Another customer came it was a woman looking around her mid thirties wearing a dark cloak with a long white dress.
Next to her stood a little boy and girl, the girl was wearing a similar dress to the woman and the boy was wearing a simple white shirt with brown shorts. The twin swordsman was able to tell they were from the lower class of social system. Their clothes were dirty and torn up and their sandals were worn out and the little boy's looked like they were broken.
"Excuse me sir can you spare me some lien?"
"I'm sorry mam, but I'm running a business not a charity" Lloyd tried his best not to sound cruel but it was the truth.
"You don't have to give me too much just a little, at least so I can buy some bread for my son and daughter. They haven't had anything to eat in weeks."
"I'm sorry mam I wish I could help you, I really want to. But I have my own business to run and my life to look after all" now he felt bad with himself he could at least give her some of his lien.
"Can you at least find it in your heart? I haven't had any luck in finding a job. No one would bother hiring a street rat from the slums, I have gone far to even sell my body for money."
"Okay" Lloyd couldn't believe what he heard feeling so bad for her" but I can't help you if your kids steal from me."
The woman gasped in shock thinking she heard wrong. But apparently he didn't fell for her trap. Lloyd has actually noticed the little boy and girl carefully leaving their mother side and entered his stand picking a few things that obviously didn't belong to them. The woman was now shedding tears if she was caught then she knew what was going to happen to her. She quickly took them behind wanting to protect them until the end she would make sure he didn't had them.
"If you're going to punish someone for stealing from you then punish me. I told them to do it they're just kids. If you want to cut someone's hands it should be me, please leave them out of this."
"Mam I'm not going to cut your hands, I don't like resolving to those extreme measures. First I would like for them to return what they stole."
"Go ahead you two, give back what you took."
The kids nodded as they showed the twin swordsman what they stole. The boy managed to take his lien bag and the girl has taken a wooden Beowulf figurine. Even if Lloyd saw them, he didn't really saw them taking the things giving a whole new meaning to the term" sleigh of hand".
"Well you can keep the Beowulf I don't have a problem with that" he smiled at the little girl before he took some lien from his bag" as for you mam here, I hope this will be enough."
When the woman took the lien her eyes widened has her mouth stood opened from complete shock" this...This is a thousand lien its too much...I can't accept this money."
"Mam just take it but I want you to promise me something. First buy some food for you and your kids, then buy some new clothes, then try to find a suitable job and then buy yourself a nice house."
"With all of this lien I might just do everything you said thank you very much. May Monty bless you I'm Josephine by the way. This is Gabin and this is Noelle" she pointed to her son then her daughter.
"Nice to meet you I'm Lloyd."
"Come along children we have a lot to do thank you again" Josephine gave a bow before she left.
"Thank you for the gift mister!" Noelle happily showed the wooden Beowulf.
The twin swordsman just smiled at the now happy family. At least that one poor family that won't have to live in the streets and poverty. If he was able to change someone's life for the better for giving so much lien, then it was worthy in the end.
(Time skip)
Sometime during the afternoon Lloyd decided to close his shop and go back to his room at the inn he's been staying for the last two months. The twin swordsman took a shower and changed to some comfortable clothes. A black shirt with brown pants no shoes he like being bare foot when he was in his room. He decided to continue doing some work on some unfinished figurines using his crafting knife getting seated in front of a small desk where he does his work.
Some of those works were an Ursai and a Boarbatusk he needed to make sure to get the face right especially the mask. It won't be easy making the tusks on the Boar species Grimm. Doing all of that it took a chunk of time for the swordsman and once he decided to leave it there he gazed at the corner of his desk and saw a map of Remnant. Lloyd smiled remembering he bought it because he was curious to know more about this world.
There were so many worlds and places to visit and he had no idea what were they'd like. Maybe he used to know but not anymore, not after losing his memories. His brown eyes widened in realization what if that was it the reason for his feeling like he didn't belong here? What if he needed to find for that perfect place where he can settle and live a happy life? He might have a successful life now but he still felt like he didn't belong here.
Lloyd stood in thought checking his wallet and his lien bag. Giving a nod he had enough lien so this could work if he plans it carefully. The twin swordsman heard a knock on the door he already knew who it was. Ever since he told him he was staying here he was constantly visiting him everyday. Lloyd gave a sigh getting up from the desk went to answer the door, opening there stood Sun smiling at him. He was right all along.
"Hi buddy!"
"Hey Sun, come in" Lloyd would never say no to the only friend he has made in the desert city.
"Ready for tonight?" he smiled entering the room.
"Tonight?"
"Don't tell me you forgot?" Sun stood shocked" dude, tonight's THE night. You're finally facing the champion Destructox!"
The twin swordsman blinked a couple of times before he gasped" oh crap the fight's tonight!? I thought it wouldn't be for another week."
"Nope I highlighted the date on my scroll and today's the day you're finally fighting him" the monkey faunus stood very excited" you just gotta win Lloyd think of all the lien you'll be winning if you beat him. Can't forget you'll become the new champion too."
"I think it will be more exciting for you assuming you're going to be betting a lot on the chances I win" the twin swordsman sweat dropped.
"That besides the point. But of course I'm going to bet on you buddy I just know you're going to win."
"Geez thanks a lot for the confidence. You should at least thank me for helping you get rich, but you haven't done that not even once."
"Sorry about that buddy, and what are you talking about being rich?"
"Come on Sun don't joke. Ever since I won my first match you've been winning a lot of lien, its obvious you're rich now right?"
The monkey faunus chuckled" nope I spend it all buying an endless supplies of bananas. You won't believe how many I bought, my crib was stacked there wasn't any space to put them all. So I basically ate half of them by now."
"You're kidding?" Lloyd stood shocked" you're telling me you spent every single lien on nothing but bananas?!"
"What's wrong with that? Bananas are healthy and just so happen its my favorite snack. I will appreciate if you don't start hating on them."
"Why would I hate a fruit? I have eaten bananas too. Most of the times I hide them from you."
"And you've been doing a good job keeping them from me. But now that I have my big supply I won't have to try hard in stealing the bananas you buy."
"That makes me feel a whole lot better" the twin swordsman sweat dropped" but anyway now that you're here I guess I can tell you my plans for the future."
"Plans for the future?" the blond monkey faunus smiled" sounds nice dude, what are they? I'm all ears."
"This has been on my mind for a while. For some time I've been feeling like I don't belong here and I feel like there's more I can do. I don't regret taking your advice in participating int eh fights even if they're illegal but because of it I was able to opened my shop and buy my scroll. Its just, I'm going to say it I am bore of this place."
"Bore?" Sun didn't know how to answer that especially when he didn't saw it coming.
"Yeah I am bore of this city of this desert I am sick of everything! Sick of always getting sand of my face, on my hands, on my shoes on my whole body! And I am sick of this damn heat! It has increased in the few months and sometimes I feel like I'm suffocating. Then in the evenings its so freaking cold I have to sleep with ten blankets! I'm sick of this weather and I don't want to stay here anymore."
The swordsman sighed turning to the monkey faunus" I made up my mind. Once I beat Destructox I'll be leaving Vacuo."
"You're leaving!?" he stood shocked" you can't! What about when you beat the champion? You'll have to come back and defend the title. I should tell you now Lloyd if you choose to leave you'll have no choice but to forfeit the championship. You have to stay in Vacuo if you want to continue being the champ."
"I want to beat Destructox but that doesn't mean I want to be champion. I just want the winning prize. The more lien I have the better. Sorry Sun but I don't care of some title or a championship belt. I want to find a new place where I can open my shop, a better place with better weather and no sand. I know what I've been feeling is a sense of calling, to find the true place I can call home. One thing for sure, its definitely not here."
"If that's what you really want Lloyd" Sun smiled" then I won't stop you. You're my buddy and I'm suppose to support you in your choice. I do know Vacuo wont be the same without you."
"Thanks Sun" he smiled shaking the hand of the monkey faunus.
"Well I better go. I still haven't made my bets yet. See you at the arena buddy" he smiled before leaving the room.
Lloyd smiled as he gazed at the unfinished wooden figurines" I better finish these before preparing for my match."
The twin swordsman went back to the desk as his brown eyes fell on the map in the corner" if I'm leaving Vacuo, I better start thinking where in Remnant I should go?"
(Time skip)
The crowd was cheering loudly filling every single corner of the arena. They were all reacting louder than usual, but what reason would they have to act such? It was obvious that tonight's main event was special. Since its announcement people in the underground fighting ring hasn't stopped talking about it. It was considered to be the" greatest match in the history of underground fighting" the one match that will topple them all as the best, no one would be compared to this one.
The match consisted of two of the toughest fighters that have emerged in Vacuo. One the challenger who has become everyone's favorite rookie and has been undefeated since he made his debut two months ago. The other was the champion, undefeated and a fighting legend that no one can't take down. It was because of this reason the whole arena was packed, every seat was occupant.
Sun stood on his seat looking excited as everyone else. He has just made his bet, big lien in favor that Lloyd will win the match. Of course he wanted his friend to win not just for all the lien he would win but also because the twin swordsman deserves the victory. After seeing him take down countless of challengers to keep his title of number one contender he deserves to have the title of champion.
On another reason he was worried for Lloyd after all his opponent was Destructox the undefeated champion. Finally the crowd burst out cheering as they spotted the announcer of the match giving them a bow happy to be present for this great match. Of course the monkey faunus would also cheer the waiting was over it was time to begin this long awaited clash.
"Ladies and gentlemen! It is truly an honor to be here on this fine evening. I know you're all very excited, as do I. Tonight's match will be one to remember it will be one for the record books! Now let's say we get this fight started?!" he received a loud cheering" let's introduce the fighters that will be participating in this main event. First the challenger he's been slowly climbing the ladder to fame earning the title of number one contender with an impressive undefeated streak. Let's give it up for the rookie sensation the Crimson Avenger!"
The crowd cheered as the ring gates opened revealing the masked swordsman in red. Lloyd grinned behind the mask making his grand entrance jumping from the gate to the middle of the caged ring making the crowd explode with cheers. He unsheathed his material blade showing he was ready for the fight now all that he needed was his opponent.
Now that he thought about it he didn't know a thing about Destructox he didn't even saw him in the back. It made him wondered if the champion was here. Not that he was expecting to win by disqualification that's not what he wanted. The twin swordsman wanted to defeat him fair and square and it wasn't pride or anything. Everyone says he's very strong and he wanted to see it first hand and he was the real deal.
"And now!" the announcer heard the crowd cheering even louder if that was possible" the moment we've all been waiting for, the champion who has an undefeated streak since he first made his debut in the underground ring. No fighter can't take him down, the strong, the unstoppable here he is Destructox!"
The crowd exploded making Lloyd gasped not expecting that to happened. Suddenly the gates of the ring opened as the champion was making his entrance. The twin swordsman stood waiting when suddenly he heard a slight tremor that shook him a bit. The ground kept shaking and they were getting louder by the second. The crowd was now chanting the champion's name much the same they did with Lloyd whenever he was fought his opponents.
The man has entered the ring and the masked swordsman stood shocked if it wasn't because he was wearing his mask, his jaw would have hit the ground. What arrived at the ring was a man reaching an insane ten feet tall wearing yellow armor all over his body with a helmet that covered his face. His weapon of choice was a doubled bladed axe with a round shield. The crowd was still cheering and Lloyd looked like he was going to pee himself.
"You can't be serious...This is him? He's a freaking giant!"
Destructox walked to the center of the ring to meet his opponent. He had to looked way down due to his crazy height" so you're the number one contender I'm suppose to fight. I don't usually judge my opponents from their height but I do hope you're good. It's been a while since I have fought and my skills have gotten rusty, don't try to hold back."
"I'll give it my best" he gulped what has he gotten himself into.
"Fighters are you ready?!" yelled the announcer" then let the championship match...BEGIN!"
(Music: Beat the angel from the Tales of Symphonia soundtrack)
Destructox made the first move charging at the twin swordsman. Lloyd gasped reacting in time to dodged the powerful strike it was thanks to his exsphere that he was able to react faster. But he was shocked to think someone so big can move so fast. This guy was no ordinary opponent he was different from all the ones he has fought and defeated. It wasn't his size but the strength he possessed evading that attack the masked swordsman was able to understand why he's the champion and why he was undefeated.
Lloyd jumped and performed his air arte rising falcon but his attack was met by the tall warrior's shield. Judging from the shield that was going to be a big problem and from taking a closer look at his armor it was very thick. It was a strong type of armor that will protect the wearer from any kind of strong attacks. Meaning his artes won't be able to do much damage.
The twin swordsman was on the defensive dodging the fast attacks from the tall warrior. He was able to react in time but he was unable to attack. The teen was in thought thinking what will be the best strategy to attack. The shield was in the way and it looked like he knew how to use it. The armor was another disadvantage he had and from his size he will have to hit him way harder than normal.
Thanks to his exsphere he dodged all of his attacks knowing the perfect timing to react for evasion. But he needed to do something Destructox didn't looked like he was one of those fighters that will get tire from attacking too much. Brown eyes widened dodging another axe swing followed by a shield bash. The crowd was cheering for the champion chanting his name, that didn't helped Lloyd at all.
"Pretty impressive, you're quite the fast one. Normally all my opponents get hit with the first attack and you have managed to dodge over ten of my attacks. But evading isn't going to help you win."
"You're right" the masked swordsman smirked" I already know how to fight you."
It was simple. First Lloyd needed to destroy his shield since it was helping Destructox with his high defense not to mention he was also attacking with it. The second part wasn't going to be easy, somehow he needed to destroy his armor. Now although he has come up with a way to destroy the shield he still didn't had a clue how he was going to get rid of his armor. For now destroying the shield was his top priority so he hoped his plan would work.
Noticing the material it was wood with some iron it made him grinned. Wood can be crush if he knew how to attack it. The twin swordsman took a back step and use demon fang followed by double fang. The three ground shock waves heading straight at the tall champion but he used his shield to blocked them. That was exactly what Lloyd looks like his plan will work he just needed to make sure he continues to use it against his attacks.
The masked swordsman resumed using demon fang and double demon fang. Destructox blocked them again with the shield leaving for the teen to charged at him. He performed Psi Tempest making the champion to blocked the spinning air attack with his shield taking all the damage. Lloyd wasn't done he went again with Rising Falcon again the tall fighter blocked it with his shield but countered with an axe swing that strike the young swordsman.
He was sent to the ground the attack was so strong he was hurt bad. The crowd was still chanting Destructox's name expecting he was going to be the winner. Lloyd got back up but his body was aching he couldn't get hit by another attack or he might not make it. The giant man stood still waiting for him to recovered, his eyes went on the shield. The twin swordsman saw it, there were many dents on the shield his plan was working.
"It looks like the Crimson Avenger is having a problem trying to beat Destructox. This could very well be another victory for the reigning champion!" said the announcer while the crowd was still chanting the champ's name.
"Come on Lloyd you can beat him, show him your stronger than him" Sun was the only one cheering on him silently but he knew that wasn't going to be enough" come on Crimson Avenger beat the champion!"
"That's what I'm trying to do Sun" Lloyd got annoyed but happy he was cheering him on unlike the crowd who were in favor for the tall fighter.
Destructox charged with an axe swing but the masked swordsman dodged it getting an opening on the big man. Hoping he will block with the shield he went with sword rain, the Sword Rain Alpha and finish it up with Tempest Beast. To his relief the champion blocked the strong attacks creating more dents on the round gear. One more strong attack might actually do it and he knew exactly which one.
Evading more attacks from the giant he charged again as Destructox was ready to block any attacks raising the shield. The right chance was now and Lloyd used super sonic thrust hitting the shield. The force from the strong arte was immense that the shield was destroyed as the iron parts fell to the ground. The champion gasped from behind his helmet he really didn't saw that coming.
"What a shocking turn of events folks! Destructox has lost his shield. Looks like it wasn't strong enough to take all of the attacks from the Crimson Avenger!"
"Well this is unexpected" said the surprised champion" this is the first time I have my shield wrecked, very impressive."
"You rely too much on it I was hoping you would use it to defend against my attacks. But it wasn't strong enough to take them all" said the smirking swordsman.
"True so what now? I may not have my shield but I still have my weapon."
"Now comes the hard part. Trying to destroy that armor. I will have to hit him even harder than the shield."
Lloyd went with demon fang and double demon fang only this time the tall champion used his axe to block the attacks. His weapon was a complete different story that the shield it was made of pure steel not even his strongest artes will be able to make a dent on it. His focus was his armor now attacking a specific part of the body will do. It all depends if he can succeed and do it right so the twin swordsman went for the chest.
Because the head was out of his reach Destructox was ten feet tall he would never reach that high not even with help from his exsphere. The chest was the easiest way to go for a target. Destructox went for the offensive attacking in all kinds of directions that made it hard for the masked swordsman to evade. He barely dodged the last attack getting a cut on his chest.
"The Crimson Avenger seems he's in trouble, can he find a way to turn this match around in his favor!?"
"This does not look good for Lloyd. He seems tired but Destructox looks like he hasn't broken a sweat yet" Sun looked worried.
Another attack from the mighty champ which Lloyd dodged but something went wrong. The axe has suddenly got stuck on the ground and the tall fighter was having trouble removing it out. This was the chance for the twin swordsman to attack him with everything he's got. The swordsman charged using sword rain with sword rain alpha and demonic chaos, all attacks pointed at his chest.
The force from the artes sent Destructox back leaving the his weapon still stuck on the ground. Without his axe the chances of victory increased for the twin swordsman as he went all out performing artes with follow ups to create stronger combos. He kept the attacks on the chest area of his armor and by now he has created dents. The masked swordsman didn't realized his exsphere was glowing under the piece of cloth that was concealing it. The crowd was going wild seeing that the tide of victory has shifted and now they were chanting Lloyd's name.
"Go Crimson Avenger take down the champion!" shouted Sun.
"Tiger Blade, Fierce Demon Fang, Tempest Beast!"
The force from all those artes combined were enough to break the armor from his chest. Lloyd's exsphere was still glowing and now the swordsman has entered over limit mode. His brown eyes focused on the target ready to finish this as he charged vanishing from sight performing quick attacks from all directions without stopping before appearing before him. His material blade were now glowing as he was about to unleash the final attack.
"I will give it my best, with everything I have, let's end this Nocturnal Onslaught!"
He vanished again performing the attack with both swords forming an "x" shape cut that sent the tall champion to the ground. Soon the rest of his armor crumbled from the powerful mystique arte. Silence fell in the entire arena the crowd was just too shocked to comprehend what they were seeing. The undefeated champion Destructox was on the ground knocked out with his armor half shattered and the Crimson Avenger was still standing panting slightly. Soon some of the crowd were murmuring that it was over, and that the challenger has won the match.
(End Music)
The announcer was the first to get rid of his shock grabbing his microphone" the match it's over folks! Destructox has been defeated we have a new champion ladies and gentlemen, the Crimson Avenger!"
The crowd exploded going wild cheering for the new champion. Lloyd chuckled as he walked to the downed fighter. Destructox was still awake but he had trouble getting back up. He removed his helmet showing his face to the twin swordsman. He seemed to be around his late thirties with long white hair and azure eyes.
"You did it, you beat me. Never thought that would be possible."
"You were very tough I have to tried ever harder with you. It wasn't easy taking down the champ."
"You proved your point, you're the best fighter."
"I wouldn't consider myself the best I just…." he was blushing under his mask.
"Come on kid you earned a pat on the back you deserve it. How about I lend you a little secret?"
Lloyd noting the tall man got on one keen ready to tell him his secret" I never had my aura unlock…."
"What? You're serious?" the twin swordsman was shocked.
"Nope I only train and train for years until I got very strong. Somehow I had the feeling you're the same."
"I guess…." though he knew his case was different because he didn't had aura according to how slow it takes for his wounds to heal compared to others.
"Then allow me to tell you my name and shake your hand, its Baron."
"Lloyd" smiled shaking his hand though his hand was ten times bigger than he's.
"Congratulations on your victory champion."
"Thanks and great match Aaron."
"Likewise."
(Time skip: the next day)
Lloyd has woken up early to packed all of his things including all of his works from his shop. Cleaning up his room from the inn was easy but it wasn't easy saying goodbye to Amad and everyone from the market street. He smiled remembering last night's match it was the best he has had since he entered in the underground ring. Destructox or Aaron was truly a strong opponent it frightened him that he never had his aura unlock.
It made him wondered if he had would he still had a chance? With his arua and even a semblance Lloyd thought he wouldn't had a chance. Giving a soft sigh as he stood at the harbor ready to board the ship that will leave Vacuo. Though he was happy to finally be leaving this desert behind he couldn't helped but feel bad. This was supposed to be his home, at least his home for two months.
The swordsman in red has packed everything on a big sack since there was no need to buy a suitcase. Its not like he had so many things to pack. Still the fresh memory of his victory last night in mind he wasn't expecting the people in the underground ring to hug him and say they were going to miss him. He never thought they will take his leave that bad.
There were rumors among them saying that they wanted him to defend his new title of champion in the upcoming brawl. But as he told Sun he wasn't interested in the championship belt but the winning prize money and he gladly quit on the title opening the door for another fighter to claim it. Lloyd followed the long line of people that were aboard the ship in a just a couple of minutes he will be leaving this kingdom.
"Lloyd!"
"I should it known he'll be coming" he rolled his eyes seeing Sun running to him.
"Dude what gives!? You were about to leave without saying goodbye to your best friend in the whole wide world."
"I'm still debating about that, I don't remember agreeing to being your best friend" he smirked.
"That was cold man you if it weren't for me you would have never gotten all that lien from winning all those matches."
"True but if it wasn't for me to participate in those matches you wouldn't have never won all that lien."
"That's true thanks to you I have so many bananas I can't count them" the monkey faunus grinned.
"Please tell me you didn't waste all the lien you won last night on bananas?"
"Nah I bought enough of them but I have save some lien for other things. Like going to Mistral, maybe attend Haven Academy and become a huntsman."
"You a huntsman? I know you told me you can fight but I find it hard for you to actually be one. Maybe you'll become a team leader."
"Tell you what? If I ever become leader of my own team, I will swallow a banana peel in front of you."
"Don't make bets you might lose" Lloyd gave a laugh.
"Seriously you think I will become leader? Honestly I don't see myself as leader material. I just hope we meet some day."
"Who knows? I don't know where I will go but cheer up we can still talk with our scrolls."
"That's true but it won't be the same" the monkey faunus smiled" bye Lloyd I hope we can meet again someday."
"Me too" the twin swordsman shook his hand as he broke it following the line of passengers.
"You better call me or text me!"
"I will!"
Lloyd swore if he cried he will never be able to live with himself. After all he was saying goodbye to a good friend who helped him get through this life and succeed in it. By now Sun was too far as he was climbing the ramp that will lead to the ship. This was it, there was no turning back now.
It was the ship and off to wherever he was going. After boarding the big ship he tried looking for anyone working with the crew. Maybe they can help him find out where the ship was heading. The swordsman in red saw an older man looking like he was in his early fifties with white beard and blue eyes. His uniform was enough to tell him that he was with the crew in fact, he looked like he was the captain of the ship.
"Excuse me sir?" he smiled approaching the man" you see I just bought my ticket and I've never travel by ship before. Can you be kind enough to tell me where the ship is heading?"
"Sure thing, our destination is Vale. But we'll be making a quick stop at Patch first."
"Patch?"
"It's a small island northwest of Vale. I suggest you get comfortable we'll be leaving shortly."
"Thank you."
Lloyd decided to go to the railing showing the perfect view of the harbor. This was it, the last time he will set sights at this place. Minutes later everyone was on board and crew members gave the call that they will be departing soon. The ship was moving and it started to get further away. The twin swordsman watched as slowly the harbor was leaving from view.
Though he was glad he was finally away he will missed parts of the desert capital city. Its people, the friends he made, the excitement and how much lien he earned that got him a scroll and a successful business. But that was all in the past it was time to look at the present and focus on the future. It was time to go to a new place and forge his new life there.
"Goodbye Vacuo…."
(Time skip)
Lloyd has taken a look at the clock from his scroll, it has been an hour since the ship left the kingdom of Vacuo. According to a crew member he talked to earlier they should be shortly arriving at Patch island. Since the island was the closest to Vacuo. After passing the small island the kingdom of Vale wouldn't be that far. Closing the communication device the twin swordsman gazed at the beautiful view ahead.
The sun was a mixed colored of orange, red and yellow accurate colors meaning it was around the afternoon. For his first time traveling by ship he has enjoyed the journey pretty much, it was a unique experience. A smile spread his lips when he was able to spot something in the far distance. An island and he already knew that was Patch the swordsman couldn't contain his excitement.
The breeze hit his face and the smell of the sea hit his nostrils. He already loved this, weather there was no crazy heat, there was no desert and best of all, there was NO sand. This was something he could definitely get used to the perfect weather he has been looking for. And maybe, this was the perfect place to live and set up his shop. As the island came to a closer view Lloyd spotted the harbor and not many people around.
It was a small island so he guessed there weren't going to be that many people living in it. The shipped finally reached the harbor setting anchor and his anticipating was growing dying to take a look at his new home. Because this was only a quick stop only a very few climbed down the ramp touching feet at the small harbor. Lloyd stood for a while gazing around before he decided to explore further seeing a village not too far.
"I have a strong feeling I'm going to like living here."
Ruby Rose was feeling great today second that, she was feeling awesome. This day was more beautiful than the usual one she has lived. Not just her first year in Signal Academy started so good she even made a great impression among her teachers. The fifteen year old has shown great skill when it comes to building weapons after she built her scythe and sniper rifle whom she has called Crescent Rose.
Also her weapon got a complement from her uncle Qrow who was a teacher at the battle Academy calling her baby "a great scythe" she was wanted to giggled to no end, guess her weapon was that wicked and cool.
The red cloaked petite was being accompanied by her older sister Yang and her father Taiyang. They have recently left Signal for the day and they were currently on their way home walking through the small village Patch. Their house was isolated from the village but it wasn't that far, just a couple of minutes on foot will do to get there.
She giggled again catching the attention of the blond brawler next to her" what's the big hype sis?"
"My baby Crescent Rose. It wasn't long ago I built her I'm so proud of her, I rule."
"It is an impressive weapon. I remember some of your classmates were calling you the genius weapon master. Oh I'm so proud of you!" Yang smirked giving the girl a quick hug.
"Stop it!" she blushed from the embarrassment.
"I'm also impressed you were able to built something so big and dangerous" Taiyang added his thoughts" of course I shouldn't expect any less of my baby girl."
"That's not all. uncle Qrow has been training me as soon as I finished building her. I have gotten better since then because I honestly sucked."
"Everyone has to start somewhere. Nobody was born knowing how to fight" replied the blond haired man.
"I can't wait to graduate already" Yang added smiling" just a few more weeks and its goodbye Signal" her lilac eyes widened noticing Ruby has gotten all quiet she needed to change the topic and fast" anyway dad, can you let me go to Vale later?"
"You've been awfully going there a lot" the blond man raised an eyebrow at his daughter" is there any specific reason why?"
"I met a boy" she smiled thinking of a certain brawler.
"Oh are your friends going too?" Taiyang hoped she wouldn't be alone with this boy.
"Nope its just me and him."
"So its a date?"
"Dad don't give me that look its not what you think. He's my friend we're on the friendship terms. We get along just fine and I like hanging out with him, there's nothing wrong with two friends spending time together right?"
"No there's nothing wrong with it I don't mind. Until he decides to hit on you and start claiming you're his girlfriend."
"Trust me dad he's nothing like that. He's not like those hormonal jerks that only think of the "s" word. He's the complete opposite."
"There's no such thing as a teenage boy with a clean mind."
"He's a complete do gooder he would think twice before putting his hands on me. Actually he told he would never make me angry because he's scared when I'm in a bad mood" she smiled thinking of him.
"The kind and sweet type are the most dangerous of the bunch I know all about them. They pretend to be complete gentlemen with you until you fall victim to them, they're the opposite."
"You don't even know him I told you he's nothing like that. Why do you always have to assume the worst in the boys I show interest?"
"Because I have seen it before sweetie they're all the same. Sorry to say this to you but you're not going to Vale period."
"What?" her eyes turned red" you can't do that!"
"Yes I can because last I checked you live in my house. My house, my rules and as long you live under my roof you will obey my rules!"
"Well maybe I don't want to live under your roof anymore!" she glared at him.
"You want to leave? Fine go ahead I won't stop you, when we get home you will pack your things and you will get the hell out of my house!" Taiyang followed his daughter with a similar glare."
"I will do just that thank you very much!"
"Fine!"
"Fine!"
Ruby sighed at her sister and father she wasn't scared or shocked because this wasn't the first time this has happened. It was always the same they will start glaring daggers at each other like they wanted to kill each other and then they will shrug it off laughing like nothing happened. And she was right as Yang and Taiyang were laughing the whole thing like they weren't bothered by it.
Even with the people they passed by they weren't bothered they already knew what kind of man was Taiyang anyway. The silver eyed girl has taken her baby that was strapped on her back folding it revealing to be the large red, black and silver scythe she has built. By now her father and sister were getting along just fine everything that took place just a few minutes ago was now water under the bridge. The hype was back as she remembered when she showed her moves in one of her classes.
"You guys should have seen me at combat class I was like boom and zoom, then I fired on the hologram targets boom boom and then I went so fast like this!"
"Ruby wait!" Taiyang got worried seeing the red cloaked girl using her semblance going too fast.
Then both blonds heard a loud crash coming from not too far away. They gasped running towards where the silver eyed petite using her semblance. When they arrived they saw Ruby knocked on the ground looking like she was seeing stars while around her there was a mess of things they've never seen before. Wooden figurines along with some necklaces and bracelets and even clothes.
On the other side of the petite stood another person on the ground looking the same way. It was obvious the young reaper has crashed on him because she was going too fast. Taiyang knelt next to his daughter while Yang went to check on the brown haired boy in read with two sheathed swords. The blond brawler made a mental note that he was cute, though not as cute as Jude in her personal opinion.
"What did I tell you about using your semblance when we're in the village young lady?" Taiyang sighed helping the silver eyed girl up" to prevent accidents like this."
"S...S...Sorry…."
"Hey you okay?" the blond brawler helped the teen in red on his feet.
"Ugh my head...What hit me?"
"That will be my little sister" she smiled while Ruby composed herself walking to him.
"I'm really sorry about this I didn't mean to bumped into you like that please forgive me" the red cloaked petite gave an apologetic bow.
"It's okay I mean it was an accident right?"
"Yeah there are times when I use my semblance that its hard to control where I'm going. I didn't saw you in the last second and I crashed on you, sorry again."
"No problem. You must have been real fast I didn't noticed you until I was on the ground."
"I'm sorry about my daughter she can be hyperactive most of the time. Are you all right? You're not hurt?" asked Taiyang.
"I'm okay" the teen in red chuckled" this wasn't exactly the kind of welcome I was expecting."
"Welcome? You're not from around here?" asked the blond man.
"I just got here by ship from Vacuo I'm Lloyd, nice to meet you."
"Taiyang Xiao Long nice to meet you and these two are my daughters, Yang and the speedster that crashed on you Ruby."
"Dad!" whined the red cloak petite.
"Nice to meet you Lloyd. Didn't mean for my little sister to" crash" your party" Yang gave a laugh while her sister face palmed and father just rolled his eyes.
"What party?" Lloyd stood confused.
"Oh you got to be kidding me, another person with a bad humor to understand puns just great" the blond brawler groaned remembering Jude was the same he didn't understood her puns.
"Ignoring my sister now" Ruby smiled at the teen in red but something has immediately caught her attention staring at his weapon" are those swords yours? Can I see them please?"
"Yeah they are, they're called material blade I know not much for originality."
"Let me see! Let me see!" the silver eyed girl was now in weapon fanatic mode.
The twin swordsman chuckled unsheathing his weapon. Ruby's eyes were wide like dinner plates gazing at the sword looking like a flame and the other as it was made of ice. A fire sword and an ice sword that was an awesome combination. She was in awe at their form she was even afraid to touch them, what if she gets burn from touching them? Fire burn and ice burn that didn't sounded nice.
But Lloyd cleared those thoughts as he let her touch the swords making her smiled. Good thing they weren't hot and cold they felt regular swords and maybe she was bit disappointed but still meeting new weapons was even better than meeting new friends, at least to her.
"So cool! What they do transform into? Two hand guns? Two mini Uzi's?" she watched him modeled the blades for her.
"Sorry but they're just regular swords" sweat dropped the swordsman in red.
"Oh okay! Most people don't appreciate the classics anymore but the classics are cool too."
"I will always like the classics" he smiled liking her attitude of weapon fanatic.
"So Lloyd, what's all of this?" Yang started picking up his things and saw some of the wooden figurines" these are nice where did you bought them?"
"I didn't bought them I made them" he said proudly.
"You made them?" the brawler was surprised" they looked very good and original. I've never met anyone who can craft Grimm out of wood" Yang then chuckled after saying the word" wood" but it wasn't missed by Taiyang who sighed at her action.
"Thanks!"
"What about these?" the blond man pointed to the necklaces and bracelets.
"I made them too. I used to run a shop back in Vacuo before I left. I was sicked of the desert, the heat, the sand it just wasn't for me. So I decided to move in here which is way better."
"Vacuo is said to be the toughest region to live in from the rest of the kingdoms, can't blame you for leaving" replied Taiyang.
"Do you have any place to spend the night?" asked Ruby.
"I'm going start building my shop which it will also be my place, so I'm okay."
"That sounds like its going to take you a while" spoke Yang.
"I guess it will take me a while to build everything. But I'm okay I have plenty of lien to go around."
"Don't you have any relatives living here?" followed Taiyang.
"I don't know about that" Lloyd's comment took the girls and their father back" I never knew my family, I got used to being on my own" he knew it was a lie it was only two months and a few weeks when he woke up in Vacuo.
"That's terrible I'm sorry…." the silver eyed reaper felt bad for him.
"Don't feel bad what counts I'm making my own life and I have a feeling this place will be the perfect beginning for me. Mr. Taiyang sir do you know if there's an inn here?"
"Yeah there's a small inn around the corner. Just take this path, go straight and take a left turn you should be able to see it. In fact its right next to Signal Academy where I work."
"And where we go to attend as battle school students" smiled Ruby.
"Oh so its a school for huntsmen and huntresses that's pretty cool" the twin swordsman gave a smile wondering if he has a chance going there.
"Here let us help you pick those things" the blond brawler offered as and her little sister started picking all the things that fell off the swordsman's bag when Ruby bumped on him.
"You guys don't have to bother yourselves its my stuff after all."
"But it was me the one who made dropped all of it so I should be the one picking it all up" said the silver eyed petite.
"Say dad?" Yang turned to the blond man with a smile" why don't we invite Lloyd for dinner?"
"Please!" Ruby finished picking everything that belonged to the swordsman in red as he also helped" I think its a great idea."
"Well I don't know, this came out nowhere honestly" Taiyang felt a little hesitant after all, they just met the teen but they didn't knew him that well to become a guest at their home.
"I don't want to be a bother to you guys. I'm sure the inn where I'll be staying has food."
"You're not a bother Lloyd" the red cloaked girl pouted at him" don't think of yourself like that I think it will be awesome if you join us. You should definitely taste dad's curry, its not too spicy its perfect."
"Come on dad say yes" Yang started poking at the blond man.
"Okay okay that's enough you two. You have convinced me, well Lloyd what do you say? Would you like to join us for dinner?"
"I…." the swordsman in red paused when he saw Ruby giving him the sad puppy eyes, it was impossible to say no" sure, that will be great."
"Yay!" cheered the silver eyed petite.
(Time skip)
Lloyd was surprised to find out Taiyang and his daughters lived in an isolated house not too far from the local Patch village. But it was pretty home with a nice view over the village and some of the green life surrounding it. When they arrived Yang and Ruby volunteered to give him a tour of their home while their father started making dinner. The sun was starting to set by the time they arrived to the household.
While the twin swordsman was paying attention to the tour he met Zwei who was the family dog. The pet was small in black fur and white on his chest and tummy with brown eyes, he was cute and adorable taking a liking to the teen in red. After the tour they decided to play some video games since Taiyang was still cooking. Lloyd had a lot of fun playing a fighting game on the sister's game system. Though the blond girl has owned him badly in it.
Finally their father finished with the curry and everyone gathered on the table of the kitchen. Lloyd was given the honor to be the first person to taste the curry. As soon as it hit his mouth his taste bud kicked in and it was delicious. Like Ruby said it wasn't that spicy, the spicy level was even making it very edible to eat. Now he has never eaten curry before but he would never want to eat it if it was so spicy it would burn his tongue.
Apparently the girls like it and he would agreed with them to be a great dish. They have all enjoyed it and before he realized he has ordered seconds with the girls. It wasn't that long when the large pot Taiyang brought to the table filled with the curry ended up empty. The swordsman in red leaned on his seat holding a big belly, proof that the food was delicious.
"I can't eat another bite. That curry was amazing Mr. Xiao Long."
"Glad you like it but don't call me Mr. Xiao Long. Taiyang is just fine or you can call me Tai."
"See I told you dad's curry is the best" Ruby smiled also full from eating twice.
"You should have never doubted our dad's cooking skills" followed Yang.
"Listen you guys" Lloyd smiled getting up from the seat" I want to thank you for everything, you already gave a great welcome at Patch I would never forget."
"We're more sorry that my little sister gave you a bad welcome with her running over you."
"Yang!" whined the red cloaked girl" I'm really sorry about that Lloyd."
"You already apologized plenty of times Ruby, I said its okay."
"I'm glad you chose to stay here then going to Vale. Patch may be small but its people are nice and the place is peaceful" said Taiyang.
"I don't regret it. I knew there was something about this island that made me want to live here and make it my new home" the twin swordsman opened his scroll checking the time" looks like it will getting late soon, I better get going to the inn."
"Ahh do you have to go so soon?" Ruby didn't sounded happy.
"I don't want to over stay my welcome. Besides, I need to wake up early if I want to built my shop and place."
"Glad to have you Lloyd. You know if you feel like coming back don't hesitate you're always be welcome in our home."
Lloyd smiled picking his packed bag as he went to the front door. He gave them one final salute before leaving. Ruby walked outside seeing the teen in red getting further away. Her silver eyes were on his retreating figure. To think she will make a friend under such circumstances. As the petite kept staring and by now he was already gone Yang was behind her with her father not too far.
A grin has formed on the brawler's lips an opportunity like this never comes it was too good to be true. This has never happened before but apparently today, it has happened. There was no way she was going to waste this chance without teasing her, the possibilities were endless. Taiyang looked at her as she was crazy, her own father was very good at reading her.
"Is it really possible?"
"What?" Ruby turned to her older sister.
"There's something going on with you sis. I couldn't help but notice when you were watching Lloyd leave how deeply you were staring at him as he walked away."
"What are you talking about?"
"Yang that's enough its getting late, time for bed" said Taiyang.
"I just can't believe my baby sister has finally developed her first crush" she was still grinning.
"What!? No way I don't like Lloyd that way! I just met him."
"That's how crushes are born, just by meeting someone for the first time. It can either be at first sight or just from talking to him for a couple of minutes. Crushes are inevitable sis you can only deny it for so long before you realize its true."
"You're wrong!" the silver eyed petite had her cheeks a little red" dad do something!"
"I said time for bed girls, come on tomorrow is another day of school."
"Okay sure" Yang kept her grin as she entered inside following her sister" Ruby and Lloyd sitting on a tree-"
"YANG!"
To be continued
-Finally done though I'm not in a good mood I'm having problems installing the McAfee antivirus I've been at it for two days and I still can't find a solution to the problem. To make matters worse now my itunes program is having problems too something about a missing dll file damn it I have to install everything again (EDIT) I fixed the itunes problem thank goodness that's one pain in the ass problem out of the way.
-Also I am sick at what's been happening lately when it comes to the cover image art of this story. It keeps disappearing and I have already uploaded it in the story settings for like 20 freaking times but it keeps disappearing WHY?! Is it copyright shit? Or is the site itself that is having problems. I hope whatever it is it gets fix soon because I am so pissed right now.
-Anyway calming down a little I decided to create a new mystique arte for Lloyd" Nocturnal Onslaught" but don't worry he still has his original mystique arte from the Symphonia game that he uses the eternal sword. I felt like adding another mystique arte for him, after all one isn't enough especially when it comes to Hubert he has five freaking mystique artes lol.
-Also I am happy to know I'm going back to writing about Yuri I like writing about him especially with the upcoming chapter (not saying anything).
-On another topic I am so sad to know actress Carrie Fisher has passed away at the age of 60 OMG Princess Leia say it ain't so. RIP Carrie Fisher may the force be with you.
-SPOILERS for volume 4 episode 7- Qrow vs Trian BEST fight so far in the volume nuff said. Though I have a strong feeling Qrow has been poisoned before Ruby cut off his stinger tail. Happy to know he's finally going to tell her and the rest of RNJR about the four maidens and Salem its about time they know who they're up against I honestly didn't like Ozpin keeping everyone in the dark. Also I'm going to call it Raven is going to show up and save Qrow. As for Oscar holy crap he has become such an important character in the plot of the story with having Ozpin's spirit in him all of his knowledge in him. I have a feeling Oscar is going to become the new Ozpin I already love his character.
Another character I have come to love is none other than Weiss after her SOB father slapped her and stripped her off her tittle as heiress giving it to her douche bag brother it goes to show you how much her character has change since volume 1 or rather how much she has grown up. Anyone can tell that she cherished the memories she made when she was in Beacon and that she was actually happy there with so many friends she made it makes me think that deep down Weiss wanted two things in her life, freedom and friends. But being in her home she's feeling miserable. Now she's going to train to master her summoning technique and then I have a feeling Ironwood and Winter are going to help her in leaving her prison home.
-As always thank you very much for the favs, follows and reviews I really appreciate it.
Next time: Hunter's Law