(A/N this is not an update this is just a chapter fix. I would've done this sooner but I've been busy. Especially with work. I still question why we need to have a meeting to revise safety rules once a month when we never change anything! It just doesn't make any sense to me! Anyway this chapter is now fixed, and from now on I will not be writing at two in the morning just because I can't fall asleep. As you can see it doesn't make for a pretty chapter. Also if you read Adventures of Slayer Infinium one of my other stories… You'd see that I've finally caught on to the light inner voice problem. And as I said there it looked completely different while typing it. Anyways that's now fixed mostly… As for now back to the story.)
Slayer: Alright we're back and I've fully recovered! I'll be honest for some reason the last chapter was actually pretty hard to make. My guess is that I'm terrible with anything having to do with romance.
Bladedancer: I'll say… Anyway I've recovered from the beating I received thanks to you!
Slayer: Hey it was put in for good reasons don't worry.
Blake: That's what worries us. You always plan something to make our lives harder.
Shadow: That's not true. Well at least partially not true.
Haze: Looks who back in action!
Neos: Why is he here?
Slayer: Mwhaahaha!
Neos: ….
Haze: Can I do the disclaimer because we need to get this show on the road!
Slayer: Sure knock yourself out. HAHAHA!
Haze: Alright… Slayer Infinium doesn't own anything except reality building concepts and OCs. Everything else belongs to their respective owners.
Shadow: When is he going to stop laughing?
Slayer: (Still laughing manically)
Neos: Most likely when we all die in this chapter.
Blake: He wouldn't kill us off… Would he?
Zach: He's killed characters before why wouldn't he do it again? I mean do you remember Rena's older brother? He was only in two chapters and he made it seem like he was important. Then he just killed him off rather harshly.
Bladedancer: Best not to think of it. So without further ado…
Everyone/minus Slayer: Here's the story!
Slayer: Hahaha.
Shadow: Hmm.
"Dark inner voice/Hollow"
'Light inner voice/Zangetsu'
Thinking/talking to inner spirit
"Telepathic communication"
Chapter Seven: A history told
Seven years after Neos's arrival, Four years after Zach's first incident, Night of date
Location Beacon
Ichigo and Neos had just left the headmasters office. Glynda was looking at Ozpin in confusion because he had just agreed to let in the orange haired boy without any test or initiation. She trusted him but the boy was on the same team now as her adopted son. This caused her to worry, even more so when she spotted the very grave look on the headmasters face.
She cleared her throat before questioning him. "Headmaster why would you just let that boy in without any sort of test? We don't know if he's fully telling the truth or even if he'll be able to keep up with the other students." Ozpin closed his eyes for a second before taking another sip from his mug and gave a tired sigh before answering.
"The reason is simple… I do believe him fully, and we'll need him before long. As for if he'll keep up well… The look in his eyes tells me that he's a warrior. That he's fought much tougher and stronger opponents in the past." He opened his eyes and looked towards her. "Just trust me on this one I have a feeling something larger than us will happen. And we'll lose without his help." Goodwitch sighed while folding her arms.
"I'll trust in your judgment for now then."
Ozpin shook his head at her. "I know that you're worried about Neos. Personally I am to, but he's strong. Stronger than we were when we were his age. Zach is also at the same level, and I feel as though Ichigo is as well." Glynda looked down towards the floor.
"I know it's just…" She paused trying to find the right words before continuing. "It's just when he was younger I blamed him for what had happened that day. I hated him and blamed him for Summer's death. And he almost died because of it; I swore that I would always support him after that day and now…" Ozpin nodded his head in understanding.
"And now you feel as though he's going somewhere you can't follow." She nodded her head solemnly. Ozpin got up from his seat and put his hand on his oldest friends shoulder. She looked at him to see him smiling. "Do not worry; he's no longer the small dragon we found in the woods that day. He's yet to regain all his memories but he's still is very capable. And with his new friends he'll be able to conquer any obstacle that gets in his way." What Ozpin said lifted up her spirits as she gave a rare warm smile.
"You're probably right, as usual. But I still worry; he's good friends with Ms. Rose and Xiao long. What would happen if they find out what happened to Summer?" What Glynda said was something that was worrying Ozpin as well. With the way Neos is, he would probably blame himself for her death. As for the other two he really didn't know. He already knew that Yang wanted to beat him to a pulp for being so close to Ruby. In truth he wouldn't know what she'd do if she found out. As for Ruby well… She would need a few days to think it over but she would eventually decide not to blame him.
"To be honest I don't really know but for now it'd be best not to dwell on that. " Glynda reluctantly agreed before Ozpin continued. "Besides I'm more worried about what he and Zach would do when they discover all of the hidden cameras around the school. Seriously Zach already found at least forty percent of them. And he's already hacked into them and now he's able to see everything through his scroll. Which mind you he's already tweaked and customized to be untraceable except through the scrolls he's connected his to at the moment." Glynda sighed but gave a small laugh.
"That's what happens when you invite an ex-professional mercenary to a school like this Ozpin." If he heard her he didn't act like it instead he went on to talk about what else he's done.
"And don't get me started on the secret coffee farm he discovered. He went in and burned all of it!" Glynda started coughing when he mentioned that particular detail. "Are you alright Ms. Goodwitch?"
She recovered quickly. "Yes I'm fine but I think it's time to leave. It is rather late and I have classes tomorrow so… Goodbye." With that she quickly ran out of the office leaving a very confused Ozpin behind. Little did he know Zach had an accomplice for the coffee farm incident.
Hello I am a line break a pleasure to meet you.
Location sparring room.
Jaune was sent sprawling onto his back from another well placed kick from his opponent. Currently he was groaning in pain. How did I end up in this mess again? His opponent was none other than Zachary Tanner, boyfriend to Blake Belladonna and mentor to the Weiss Schnee. Now however he was also Jaune's mentor. Currently it is Tuesday a few weeks since Ichigo Kurosaki had joined and Zach and Blake had become an official thing. The current situation started a week ago when Zach pulled Jaune aside after classes were over and asked him for a spar. Thus leading up to today's events.
"Get up Jaune! You can definantly do better than that!" Jaune groaned in pain and slowly got up from the floor using his sword for support.
"Remind me again how you talked me into this?" Zach gave out a humorous laugh.
"You make it sound as if I'm giving you a choice in this! Sorry but right now you're the weakest of us. So that means it's up to me to make a man out of you!" (A/N go ahead and play that song if you want to.) Jaune got upset at hearing how he was the weakest.
"So what I need help!?" Zach brought his left hand to his chin in mock thought.
"Yep! So come on at me!" Jaune charged at Zach who easily parried all of his sword swings before jumping back a ways. "Think of it like this… While fighting me you can get stronger without asking me for help. I don't even have to give you advice, just try and adapt and fight. As for now…" Zach stopped talking as he rushed Jaune with his sword held in a reversed grip. Thinking quickly Jaune held up his shield and successfully blocked the swing from Zach. This earned him a grin from the ex-mercenary.
"Very good, see Jaune you're getting stronger. However…" With that Zach backed up and kicked the bottom of Jaune's shield knocking him off balance while Zach jumped up and kicked him in the chest. This sent him flying back once more.
In the stands watching the spar were a few people. There was the rest of team Mercenary, Ruby, Weiss, Blake who had Rosa on her lap, and the rest of team JNPR. Currently Weiss was trying to memorize every detail about Zach's fighting style so she would have an advantage over him in a fight. Ruby was there sitting next to Neos, they weren't really paying attention to the match instead they were talking about random things. Ichigo was watching the match with interest. While team (J)NPR were watching the spar, worried about their team leader. Although even they had to admit Jaune was indeed improving with Zach's help. Pyrrha however just wished that Zach would go a little bit easier on him.
She ended up wincing when Zach punched Jaune in the face after he dodged a sword swing. Zach clapped his hands gaining everyone's attention.
"Alright that's enough for now. Good work Jaune you definantly are improving so just keep it up." Zach walked over to Jaune who was rubbing his jaw with his left hand. Zach offered his right hand to Jaune who accepted it.
"Was that last punch really necessary?"
Zach grinned at Jaune before answering. "Yes it was, it helps keep you on your toes and adds some level of unpredictability. Besides nothing is broken so why are you complaining?" Jaune only grumbled before walking off to his team. When they regrouped they waved at everyone before leaving. Zach used his shadows to quickly get himself up into the stands. He rubbed his palms together before turning towards everyone who was left.
"So guys what do you want to do now?" Everyone looked at each other; it seemed as though no one had an idea about what to do next.
Ichigo shrugged his shoulders. "Beats me, it seems like none of us have the slightest idea." Everyone nodded in agreement.
Zach thought for a moment before giving out an idea. "Well if we have nothing to do let's just go do our class work and study. Besides I would rather keep my perfect marks than let them drop. And Ichigo still needs to be caught up on a few things." Zach didn't mention that Ichigo needed to be taught a lot of things since he's from another dimension. But still everyone nodded in agreement. Smiling Zach turned to Blake.
"Hey Blake want to meet up in the library in an hour? That way we have time to clean up and everything."
Blake smile back to him. "Sure! I'll meet you there." Turning around she left while waving at them, she was also followed by Weiss who did the same thing. Turning to the rest of the group Zach asked what they were going to do.
Ichigo answered first. "Well I'm going to head back to our room and get to work. I still need to study up on history more as well. Not to mention everything on dust in general." Zach nodded his head before turning to Ruby. She was fidgeting while looking at Neos. She ended up speaking before he could ask her what was wrong.
"Hey Neos would you like to help me study as well?" Her face quickly turned red and she threw her hands up in front of her while waving them. "I mean you don't have to I just thought it'd be nice." Ruby stopped waving her hands to poke the tips of her index fingers together. Neos and Zach looked at each other. They knew two things, one Neos would love to help her, and two Yang would kill him if she found them together. Neos weighed his options and decided it was well worth the risk to spend time with the red cloaked girl.
So giving a big smile he looked back at her. "Sure Ruby I would love to! Let's get ready and get our stuff. In about an hour we can meet up in the mess hall." Ruby beamed with glee as she heard his answer. Quickly she kissed his cheek and then sped off using her semblance.
She also spoke some words. "Great meet you there bye!" Of course that was said so fast they were barely able to understand her. Neos however didn't mind and was rubbing the place where she kissed him. Ichigo and Zach looked at each other before shrugging and leaving the dazed dragon behind.
Hi did you miss me? I'm still a line break by the way.
Outside sparring room
Zach stretched a bit before turning his attention towards Ichigo. "Well I'm going to shadow walk my way over to our room so I can get ready. I'll see you later; take care not to get lost."
Ichigo gave a wave to his new friend. "Yeah see ya later." With that Zach disappeared into the shadows.
His hollow spoke up right after. "I so wish we could do that! Think about all the things we could do with it!" He was soon answered by Zangetsu.
'Indeed even I would have to say it would have its uses.' Ichigo absently nodded his head before giving his own opinion.
Yeah I agree however we still have Sonido, shunpo, and blink so I think we're go on speed techniques. His inner spirits mumbled their agreement and he made his way back to his room. Along the way he heard a few voices. Five to be exact, four sounded male and one sounded female. His scowl deepened when he heard the guys laughing while the girl was pleading to be left alone. Using shunpo he quickly ran to their location. He became quite angry at what he saw. Now suffice it to say Ichigo never liked bullies, and those who did bully him would often live to regret that mistake. As in he would beat them to a bloody pulp. Later in life people would mostly stop because of that. But there were still a few idiots that challenged him to a fight.
Recently back in his world he and his friend and student council president Uryu Ishida beat up and entire gang in front of the school. Okay so his boss showed up and beat up the rest in a few seconds but they still got a few of them. Then afterword's he was pretty much kidnapped by his boss so she could get him to work. Back to the matter at hand, arriving he saw four boys picking on a long brown haired girl with long rabbit ears. The one he assumed led the group was currently pulling on her ears.
"Stop that hurts!" The boys however ignored her and just laughed.
Having enough Ichigo yelled out at them. "Hey! Just what do you think you're doing?!" Everyone turned to him to see his angry face. Although to most people they wouldn't be able to determine it from his usual one. Still the four picking on the girl turned to the orange haired teen, the one who was pulling the girls ears sneered at him.
"What do you care what we're doing? Are you some animal lover or something?"
Ichigo's eyes narrowed dangerously. "The only animals I see here are you and your cronies picking on someone different than you."
The guy folded his arm and growled a bit. "Do you not know who we are? We're team CRDL (Cardinal)! And you've just crossed us!"
"I really don't care but I'll give you one chance to leave before I kick your faces in." Team CRDL laughed at him and charged him. Cracking his neck Ichigo waited for them to get close to him. The shortest one was the first to reach him since he was the fastest. As such he was the first to be incapacitated; jumping up Ichigo kicked him in the face sending him sprawling onto the ground. When kicked there was also a crunching sound. And with the way the guy was clutching his face Ichigo more than likely broke his nose. Readying himself for the others they attacked him more fiercely now in an attempt to avenge their fallen comrade. What happened next was akin to a slaughter. Ichigo didn't even need to use any reiatsu or aura as it was called in this world. He straight up beat them with pure strength.
After picking themselves up from the beat down team CRDL ended up making one final threat.
"We went easy on you this time but don't let it go to your head!" Ichigo took a step forward as if to beat them more. This caused them to flee the scene. Sighing while rubbing the back of his head he turned to the rabbit eared girl.
"Sorry about that… Are you alright by the way the way they were pulling your ears seemed painful."
The girl nodded her head before speaking in a timid voice. "It hurts a little now but nothing to be too worried about. Thank you for helping me, no one's ever really done that before."
Ichigo shook his head. "No need to thank me I just don't like people like them. I'm Ichigo Kurosaki it's nice to meet you and you are?"
The girl smiled before introducing herself. "I'm Velvet Scarletina and thank you again for helping me."
Scratching his cheek with some embarrassment he tried to correct her. "I told you there's no need to thank me." She giggled at his actions which caused him to sigh. "Hey is this the first time those idiots have bothered you?"
Sadly she shook her head. "No but they mostly pick on me during lunch."
Ichigo looked at her. "What about your team? Do they do anything to help you?"
She looked nervously around before turning back to him to answer. "Yes but unfortunately I don't have the same lunch period as they do."
Ichigo nodded his head in understanding. "What lunch do you have then?"
She answered him hesitantly. "I have the first one with most of the first years."
"Oh are you a second year or something?" She nodded her head. This surprised him a bit since he would assume that a second year student would be able to defend herself from a group of upstart bullies. "If that's the case than why didn't you fight back against those jerks?"
She fidgeted a bit before answering him. "You see I don't want people to see all us faunus as the white fang. They're violent and brutal, so I don't fight back to prove we're not all like that."
Ichigo had to respect that decision. "Well I understand that." Thinking for a bit he came up with an idea. "Okay then if they're ever bothering you just let me know. I'll kick their buts for you. Also if you want you can sit with me and my friends at lunch. That way you don't have to worry about them bothering you."
She looked up and shook her hands. "Oh no I wouldn't want to impose on you like that!"
Ichigo laughed a bit. "Okay than how bout you help me study than in return? You see I've recently transferred here from outside the kingdom so any help would be very much welcomed."
She seemed to consider this before nodding her head. "Alright then I guess that's fine."
Ichigo gave a small smile at her. "Great thanks this means a lot. Now how bout I walk you to your dorm room? That way no one will bother you."
Her face became red a bit but she still nodded her head in consent.
"Smooth king, real smooth"
I have no idea what you're talking about. I'm just helping someone out is all.
"And the fact that she's a real cutie has nothing to do with it?"
I really hadn't noticed that until you said anything, so no it didn't have anything to do with it.
"Umm…"
Yes I realized as soon as I said it. Ignoring his hollows laughter he continued to walk Velvet to her room while just talking to each other in general.
Hi did you miss me? I'm still a line break by the way.
Team mercenary's room
Later that night everyone finally met up at their rooms and said good night to each other. However what they weren't expecting was a visitor. At first they didn't know what the strange gaping black vortex in their room was. It was just sort of there. Not knowing what to do with it Neos got out one of his fire dust bombs. Having really no idea what they were doing he chucked it at it. The bomb went into it and disappeared. They waited a bit, after a minute someone wearing a black cloak ran out of the vortex and fell on the floor face first. He looked quite burnt to, the figure was also groaning in pain.
After a bit longer the person finally spoke although he was still on the floor. "Alright who threw that bomb in there?" The others in the room looked at Neos who looked a bit embarrassed at what happened.
"Yeah… That was me, sorry about that. But we didn't really know what that thing you came out of was. Although in hindsight throwing a bomb into it was probably not a great idea to begin with."
The man sighed before picking himself up, while doing so he dusted off his clothes. Then he looked at the trio before introducing himself. "Well no permanent harm done, I'm Shadow the Darkwraith a pleasure to meet you all." The three quickly introduced themselves causing Shadow to sigh in relief. "Oh good I got the right dimension this time. No Hunter Infinium and no more awkward conversations about being in the wrong place and apologizing. Anyway I'm here for a couple of reasons but they all involve you three!"
Looking at each other Zach being the un-official team leader spoke to him first. "And just what might you need us for?" He spoke in a slightly hostile and warning tone.
Shadow however laughed at it. "Oh don't worry it's nothing malicious or dangerous. I'm here to offer you three weapons, armor, gadgets, and information."
Zach looked at him curiously. "And why would you do that? I mean why us specifically?"
Shadow put his hands behind his back and stood completely straight. "You see right now there is a war going on, a dimensional war to be precise. There are two sides… One the W.R.C. or world restoration corporation, they're led by a man named Jackson Grove or Jack of Doom if you're using his moniker. They are what you would call the good guys, and the side I'm backing." He paused to let the three absorb the information before continuing. "Then there is the W.D.O or world destruction order. They are the quote unquote bad guys. They plan on conquering all other dimensions to impose a forced rule on them. As to why this applies to you well… Two of you are from different dimensions, as such I've taken it upon myself to be a merchant for the W.R.C in order to help pay for war expenses." Despite the strange feeling they got from the guy they believed him.
Even though his reasons were rather lacking they decided to give him a chance. Speaking up Ichigo gave him a smirk. "Alright show us what you've got and we'll see if we want anything."
Doing a fist pump Shadow talked excitedly. "Alright! Now this makes four customers including that Deadpool guy." For some reason that name sounded familiar to Neos. In fact a lot of the names he just heard sounded familiar. He guessed that he was privy to all this information before losing his memories. His thoughts were interrupted by Shadow. "Alright tell me what you might be interested in and I'll show you what I have. And if you don't want anything I'll just show you interesting items. How does that sound?" They nodded their heads and thought for a bit.
Ichigo decided that he wanted three things. "Alright do you have and bracers, and shin guards? Also show me some of your rifles if you have them." Shadow nodded furiously while he took a giant bad out of a void pocket. Ruffling around a bit he pulled out two silver colored bracers. If Ichigo were to put them on they would reach a few inches below his elbows. Where the wrist exited was rounded and smooth to allow for comfort. While the backside of the bracers ended in a rounded point. The front was wear the straps were so he could put on and adjust the bracer. They were both covered in strange and detailed runes. Shadow handed them to Ichigo so he could try them on while he went back to rummaging in his bag. Ichigo put them on and found them perfect. Nodding his head at their weight and feel he turned back to Shadow who had pulled out matching greaves.
They were the same as the bracers in terms of design. They were also made so he could put them over his boots. Putting them on he was once again satisfied with their feel. So far Shadow had been giving them quality items. However now the hard part, Shadow had pulled out a couple of rifles. One was a .45-70 lever action rifle with circle sights, another was a bolt action .308 8X scoped rifle, and the last one was a .308 semi-automatic with a 6X scope. Each one however was compatible with dust rounds. He wanted a rifle since his shot-gun sword was for close range combat. And he figured that if he could save on Getsuga's by using a rifle it would help in the long run. But now he didn't really know which one to pick, they all seemed fairly decent. In the end Ichigo decided to go with the semi-automatic rifle. Shadow called the gun a PSG1, a military grade sniper rifle that didn't rely heavily on large rounds.
"Great that will be twenty thousand please." Oh right they forgot that they're paying for them.
Sighing Zach turned to Ichigo. "You're going to have to pay me back for this." Giving a nervous laugh Ichigo agreed while Zach paid for his purchase. That was when Zach started asking for things. "Okay let me see your silenced pistols, mine needs to be replaced." Nodding his head he dug around a bit and pulled out a few different pistols with silencers attached to them. He ended up choosing not one but two mk.23 dust round compatible pistols. To slightly offset the cost a bit he gave Shadow his old P99 pistol. The two types of guns were similar but the MK.23 was definantly the better gun. As for Neos he didn't really need any new gear. Instead he wanted information, more specifically information about himself.
"Here's something have you've ever heard of me before I came to this world?"
Shadow thought for a bit before answering. "Yeah I've heard of you a few different times. Talk of you being a hero and protégée of the Elder dragon Patriarch but that's pretty much it sorry it wasn't very useful."
Neos sighed after being told things he already knew about. "Yeah thanks anyway. So will you ever visit us again or is this a onetime thing?"
Shadow shrugged. "I don't see why not besides it'll be fun supplying you guys. Anyway if that's all I need to see if I can get some kid running around with a giant key to buy my wares." Another vortex opened up next to him. "See ya!" Stepping through it closed behind him.
Zach clapped his hands together. "So that was oddly strange yet helpful, but did any of you feel something off about him or was it just me?"
Ichigo nodded his head in confirmation. "Yeah I sensed it to; it was if he was lying to us the whole time. Yet I could tell he was telling the truth."
Neos gave his agreement. "I know what you mean there's just something about him which I don't like. All well at least you got some new things. As for now let's get to sleep, after all I rather not fall asleep during class. Who knows what my mom would do to me." They laughed while giving the idea their consent.
Hi did you miss me? I'm still a line break by the way.
Things went pretty normal the next day except for two things. One Yang found out about Ruby and Neos yesterday thanks to Nora who happened to find them while returning a book on sloths. And two Velvet hung out with them during lunch and the classes they had together. While that was all fine and dandy, Neos needed to use a couple more stealth-boys to run away from Yang. At this point Ruby was getting a little frustrated with her. But she knew Yang was just looking out for her and being the protective older sister. Though she and most others would say over protective. That night Ruby finally decided to talk to Yang about how she's been acting towards Neos. She decided to recruit Blake into this for emergency backup. After all she was going out with his partner.
Steeling herself she went up to started to talk to Yang inside of their room. "Yang I think we need to talk about something."
Yang looked up at her sister from her bed confused by her tone. "What's up Rubes? You sound serious did something happen?"
Looking over at Blake who motioned for her to continue Ruby took a deep breath. "In a way yes and in a way no… I just want to talk to you about something which has been going on for a while."
Yang looked at her younger sister. "Okay but if it's about school work then I can't help you. I'm probably the worst one here when it comes to that."
Sighing Ruby continued. "No Yang it's not about school work it's about…" Yang heard her mumble something under her breath.
She raised an eyebrow in confusion. "Um you want to run that by me again a little louder this time little sis?" Ruby mumbled a little louder. "Ahh one more time please?" Ruby looked at Blake for support.
"Go on Ruby if you feel you need to do this than you should." Yang at this point was getting kind of worried. Ruby usually wasn't like this, any other time if something was bothering her she would tell her without hesitation. However now she was stumbling with words and had Blake for morale support.
Her worry was shown in her voice. "Hey Ruby are you okay? You know you can talk to me if somethings wrong right?" This made Ruby bite her lower lip.
Then taking a deep breath she spoke again… Only this time it was at very high speeds that no one understood her. "IwanttotalkaboutmeandNeos'srelationshipandhowyoutreathim!" Though Blake knew what she was talking about she couldn't understand a word she said.
Yang wasn't better in that regard. "Umm… That was better but could you repeat that a tad bit slower?"
Taking one last breath Rwby repeated herself at normal speeds. "I said I want to talk about me and Neos's relationship and how you treat him." You know there was a man who once said… "Understanding doesn't always equal happiness." In the case of Yang that was quite true in this current situation.
Narrowing her eyes she stared at Ruby who gulped at the look. "And what about it Ruby?" Her voice sounded leveled and calm but her face told a different emotion.
Ruby steeled her resolve and began to speak once more. "Listen I know you care about me and that you want to protect me but you need to know when to back off. I really like Neos and you keep threatening him."
Yang knew she was right but reason gives way to madness as they say. "I see so now you're just turning against me eh?!"
Ruby looked surprised. "What? No! I'm not turning against you or going to stop being with you. I just want you to let me be with the one I like."
"Humph! Personally I don't see why you even like the guy."
That was when Blake spoke up. "Actually Zach, Neos, and Ichigo are amazing people. If I wasn't already in love with Zach I might've fallen for the other two. But I'm perfectly happy with my own boyfriend."
Yang snapped at her. "Oh who asked you?!"
Ruby stomped her foot. "Yang! Neos really is an amazing person. He's strong, kind, funny, handsome, brave, and he likes weapons! I mean he's made a few different awesome weapons and he keeps them in that pipboy. Oh how would I love to have one myself." At this point both girls looked at her with deadpanned looks as she started fangirling over his equipment. Blake coughed to get her attention back to the subject.
Embarrassed she got back on topic. "Oh sorry about that. Anyway Yang I'm going to go out with him whether you want me to or not. But I would rather have your support with this." Here was the knee jerker. Yang knew that she had two choices… One still try and boycott this relationship and risk pushing Ruby away, OR! Try and support her sister through an important stage in her life.
Ruby seeing her face of indecisiveness laid out her last cards and hoped for the best. "And besides Yang I never said anything about the guys you went out with, even when I didn't like some of them."
Yang was pretty much forced to relent to that little fact. So sighing she finally agreed. "Okay you win I'll stop threatening Neos and help you. However no kissing in front of me, and if he hurts you I'm going to rip him apart understand?!" Both Ruby and Blake seriously doubted that Yang could seriously harm the dragon knight. But with them being the only students outside team mercenary to know about his true status… They decided to just let Yang have her way for now.
So Ruby just smiled instead and gave Yang a big hug. "Thanks sis! This means a lot to me!" Yang just smiled and returned the hug. However that was when things turned sour. Suddenly the lights turned off in the room.
"Umm… Were we expecting a power outage today?" Ruby and Blake just looked at Yang. "What?!" Sighing they both shook their heads before Ruby took out an emergency flashlight and clicked it on. Waving it around a bit she almost dropped it when she shined it on someone wearing a brown hooded trench coat. His face was covered by a Kabuki mask. His coat was opened showing a red leather shirt with chain mail underneath. He also wore black pants stuffed into red long boots. Around his waist was a brown red buckled belt. On his hands were full red leather gloves. On his back was a wooden stock rifle, what kind however they couldn't really tell in the dark. On his left side was a strange glass like sword. Its handle was ten inches long while the blade if it could be called that was a two inch around four foot long rod. He himself was about six foot five. Not overly tall but he still easily towered over them.
When he spoke it wasn't with his mouth instead they heard his voice in their minds. It had a certain echo to it, and it sounded serious and gruff but had calmness to it. The girls had never heard anything like it.
"Yes I've finally found you! But I can tell that you might be wondering what is going on at this moment. However I'm on a tight schedule and can't explain everything right now. Oh and don't try calling for help I've disabled all forms of communication here. Even the bond you have with Mr. Tanner won't work here Ms. Belladonna." That scared Blake, and at first she didn't want to believe him but she couldn't feel Zach's presence anymore. So she had to assume this man, no this thing was telling the truth. Ruby and Blake started backing up to try and reach their weapons while Yang just activated hers. Getting into a fighting stance she charged at the intruder. Punching out with her right fist while also firing a shotgun shell she hoped to hit him squarely in the face. However she was shocked that her opponent just grabbed her hand catching all the shotgun pellets as well. Normally any normal person would avoid trying to catch something like that. Unless they really wanted holes in their hands that is.
However this didn't even faze him as he pulled her towards him and kneed her hard in the stomach. She coughed out spit and blood at the force of the impact. The stranger let go of her and watched as she clutched her stomach in pain. What was even more surprising was that she didn't feel her aura go down at all from the blow. It was if he somehow bypassed her aura defense. Something that shouldn't be possible with just kneeing someone. Looking up at the man wearing the mask she heard his voice again.
"I bet you're wondering how I was able to bypass your reiatsu shield. Or aura shield as you call it. It's actually quite simple; you've only practiced using it to block other aura attacks, and different physical attacks. So in truth you don't have the knowledge to defend yourself against mental attacks. Or psionic attacks if that makes more sense. You see I'm a Psion as such I can block all your attacks with ease with my mind, but none of you can block mine if I hit you. It would be as though you never had aura to begin with." Yang's eyes widened in fear as he said that, sure there were people who had mental abilities as a semblance… But this was the first time she ever heard of a Psion. A person who just used their mind to attack? That wasn't good whatsoever especially when said attacks can bypass aura.
The stranger looked up and jumped back as Blake slashed at him with her katana. This confused Yang a bit because if what he said was true that attack shouldn't have even hurt him if it connected. Yet he still jumped backwards why? She growled at the fact that his face was hidden. It would help if she could see his expressions. Looking to her side she saw Ruby with crescent rose out.
Ruby offered Yang her hand in which she accepted gratefully. "Are you okay Yang? That hit from before looked rather painful."
Yang nodded her head before answering. "Yeah but I'm okay now, but watch out his attacks can bypass aura completely." The two girls looked surprised at this but nodded their heads. Then they once again heard his voice.
"Do we really have to fight? I just need Ms. Rose and Belladonna to come with me. We truly don't have to fight right now. I do have a schedule to keep."
Blake narrowed her eyes at him. "And why do you want me and Ruby?" He just shrugged before answering.
"Ruby has herself to blame for becoming involved. And she can blame everyone else for being ignorant about what is happening out there in Reality. As for you… Well suffice it to say you can blame your blood. And also not being informed about what's happening out there. You see things are starting to heat up and we need our capable fighters soon. In order to do that we must use… Unorthodox methods to get them where we need them to be."
Yang scoffed at him. "Can you believe this guy? Talking about fighters and reality he sounds pretty crazy to me. Right guys? Guys?" Yang looked between Ruby and Blake who both had faces of recognition. They remembered what Ichigo, and Neos had told them concerning their origins.
"No it's not exactly what you're thinking but you two are close. Just not close enough. Somehow he mentally sighed. In truth I was told to not harm you if I didn't have to, especially you Blake but really you're not giving me much of a choice here. So I think I'll end this little farce." With that he moved at fast speeds and hit Yang in the sternum. Yelling in pain she wasn't able to dodge the side kick he sent her. Flying backwards from the force of the kick she hit the wall hard enough to make an impression in it. She then promptly fell forward onto her face falling unconscious. Yelling out to their partner/sister, Blake and Ruby turned towards the man with anger in their eyes. Using her semblance Ruby got behind the man and she swung her scythe at him. However like Yang's punch he just caught the blade. However before he could repeat what he did to Yang on Ruby Blake tried to slash him across the back with Gambol shroud.
Once again he jumped away from the attack. This confused the two and made Blake ask him what's up. "I don't get it… Why are you dodging my blows but just using your hand to block the others?"
"Sigh… Well that is something you'll just have to find out later because like I said I have a schedule to keep. And the longer I cut you off from the Voidspawn the sooner he'll barge in here worried… Oh crap I wasn't supposed to tell you about that yet."
"Voidspawn? Zach's a dragon faunus, so what are you talking about?"
"Sorry I've said too much already… Anyways I think I'll just end this here and now." He then pulled out his strange sword. Then he brought it up in front of him and it suddenly had a glowing glass like blade about four inches wide and four and a half feet long. "This you see is a Psi blade. Only a few metals can withstand being hit with this and I doubt your weapons are made from those materials. And since you can't use your aura to enhance your weapons I'll just cut through them like butter." What he said was true although Blake was willing to try something.
"Ruby I think he's telling the truth but only for your weapon. Remember Zach and Neos have been showing us how to enhance our weapons with aura. And so far he's been dodging mine this whole time."
Ruby nodded her head in understanding. "I understand I'll draw him in with my speed while you go in for the finish."
Blake smiled at her younger leader. "Yeah alright but remember one hit and you're down for the count, and one slash and your weapons busted." Ruby nodded her head with a look of determination. Looking back at their opponent Ruby charged forward while Blake hung back for a bit before joining in. Despite charging at him Ruby stopped a few feet from him just as his sword sailed in front of her. Still using her semblance she started running around him using her maximum speed. This left after images which she used to disorientate him. Blake jumped forward and Ruby stopped to jump back. Allowing the black haired girl a big opening for attack or at least what they thought was an opening. The man quickly side stepped her attack pulled his leg back to kick her. However Ruby showed up and took a swing at him with her crescent rose.
However he seemed to anticipate this and instead of kicking Blake, he quickly turned around and not only cut the scythes blade in half but also the pole itself. Full of shock and anguish at her loss Ruby wasn't able to dodge the punch, kick, punch combo from the man. Having no way to negate the blows force, she was made to bear the full brunt of the blows. As such she landed on her back unconscious. Blake was the only one left, now even angrier yelled out in fury and attacked him again this time alone. The man only laughed in her head. Charging forward she swung both her katana and sheathe blade at him. However he just easily dodged them.
Blake one again heard his voice in her head. "You know this is rather pointless… Although I now know you're trying to buy some time. But I must say no one will make it in time."
She growled in anger before yelling at him. "Oh yeah! I'll just take you out myself then!" The man sighed in her mind again before he disappeared. Blake blinked and tried to find. Then suddenly he appeared in front of her. Surprised she instinctively took a few steps back. This ended up saving her when his weapon flashed where she used to be. However Blake's weapons were destroyed in the process. Blake jumped back a few feet and looked at her now broken weapon. She was both sad and angry at its lost. She made that weapon herself along with Adam's help. One of the few reminders of a time where he wasn't a monster. Looking back at the man she blinked when he was in front of her again.
He swung his blade down at her; she managed to dodge the blow and started speaking again. "You know you keep saying that you'll end this fight. And yet… You keep missing me with slow swings. What are you planning really?"
Again another sigh yet he still answered her. "You're a bit too clever for your own good. But let me tell you something interesting. Have you ever heard of the phrase curiosity killed the cat?"
She looked at him confused but still answered. "Yes… What about it?"
He laughed a bit before answering. "Well you see curiosity never killed the cat, it was actually stupidity! Curiosity was blamed. That is the whole point here. By taking you and Rose team Mercenary will stupidly follow us. But they will still be curious about what this whole situation is about. You see if we invited them over normally they'd just come because they were curious and they would plan accordingly. However with two hostages they'd just blindly run in to save them. However we need to talk to you about some things as well but that'll have to wait until after they passed their test." Blake was about to question him further when he disappeared from sight again. It was only thanks to pure instinct that she managed to dodge a slash from behind.
A bit angry at his speed she sneered at him. "You missed once again it seems."
"Did "?" His question caught her off guard. But before she could ask him what he meant she felt a large amount of pain come from her left arm. Yelling out in pain she grabbed it. Looking at it she saw there was now a deep bloody cut going down the length of it. She looked back up again towards the man. This time however she was finally scared.
Hi did you miss me? I'm still a line break by the way.
Zach was worried he knew that Blake said that she would close the bond as she and Ruby discuss things over with Yang. But he couldn't shake the feeling as if something was wrong. It's been an hour since she and Ruby left and so far Yang hasn't come out to kill Neos so he had to assume that was well and good. But I just can't shake this feeling that somethings wrong. Ahh who knows maybe I'm just paranoid.
Currently he, Weiss, Neos, Ichigo, and Velvet were in the library studying. Or at least that was the official reason. The actual reason was the Blake and Ruby told him and Weiss to get Neos to an out of the way place just in case Yang went nuts. Of course Ichigo and Velvet were already here studying so it made their job easier. He stopped thinking about it when he felt a hand on his shoulder.
Apparently Weiss noticed his worried look. "Are you alright? You seem a little… Tense." Was that the right word? He didn't know but he appreciated the gesture from his oldest friend nonetheless.
He gave her a smile before answering. "I'm alright I'm just a bit worried is all. It has been a while since they told us to get Neos out of the line of fire. I guess I've grown used to Blake's constant presence."
Weiss smiled at him. "Don't worry I'm sure they're fine. As for why it's taking so long this is an important subject! So don't worry too much."
Zach sighed but nodded his head anyway. "I guess your right I just hope…" He stopped talking while his eyes went wide. Briefly he could feel an enormous amount of fear coming from his bond with Blake. That was followed by pain before it disappeared again.
Getting up quickly he picked up his sword before giving a shout. "Blake!" Startling everyone else he shadowed walked out of there going off to team RWBY's room. Worried everyone dropped what they were doing and ran after him. When Zach arrived outside the room he gave a few loud knocks just to be sure they were in trouble. Hearing nothing he kicked down the door with a shadow enhanced kick. With the door now broken off its hinges he was able to see the inside of the room. There were bullet holes, slash marks, and burned areas. He knew there was definantly a fight in here. That was when he saw a man in a grey coat. However what truly made him mad was when he saw Ruby being carried underneath his right arm and Blake being carried over his left shoulder. He became rather furious when he saw her left arm dripping with blood.
He yelled out to the man. "Let them GO!"
The man turned towards him revealing the mask he wore. Than he spoke to his mind which made him feel strange. "Ah it seems as though I didn't leave in time. But maybe this will work better."
"I said let them go now!" His voice was practically dripping in anger.
However the man just laughed. "Well it's nice to see that you got a fire inside kid. But this is how it works if you ever want to see these girls again than you'll show up with just your team. Where you'll show up only you will know, and before you ask you already know how you will know. As for now…" The man quickly threw a small orb on the ground which exploded into thick smoke. Zach realized he threw down a smoke bomb. After it cleared he saw the man was gone and he quickly ran to the opened window. Looking out he growled when there wasn't any sight of them. Yelling out in frustration he punched a wall making a hole in it. That was when the others showed up. They were all shocked at the state of the room. The floor, ceiling, walls, and even the beds were all heavily damaged. That was when Yang began to stir from her position against the wall.
Quickly running over to her Zach checked to make sure she was okay before speaking. "Yang are you alright?"
With a pained groan she answered him. "I think so…"
Zach nodded his head while Neos approached them. "Do you remember what happened here?"
She looked at him before answering. "Yeah we were attacked by someone who called himself a Psion. Apparently he was ordered to come here and take Blake and Ruby. I didn't exactly find out why because he knocked me out first." She looked down in shame. "I wasn't able to do anything; he bypassed my aura shield and took me out real quick. He even grabbed my hand while I was firing my weapon! And it didn't even phase him one bit!"
Everyone became worried about that detail. In a world where people use auras to fight… Having someone who's able to bypass that is really quite bad.
Zach shook his head. "Do you know why he was able to do what he did?"
Yang though for a bit before answering. "Yeah he said something about our aura's not being trained to block mental or psionic attacks. Something like that at least. He also called aura reiatsu for some reason." Zach and Neos both turned to Ichigo who just looked shocked before turning back to Yang since she wasn't done talking. "It was strange though when me and Ruby attacked him he blocked it with his arm or hand. But he kept dodging all of Blake's attacks."
Zach narrowed his eyes when hearing that. "Do you know why that was?"
She shook her head. "No sorry but he took me out before I could find out."
Zach nodded and stood up and addressed everyone. "And he told me that he wanted team mercenary to come to him alone when he reveals his location." He shook his head. "This is most obviously a trap. One in which we can't afford not to trigger if we want to save Blake and Ruby."
Weiss shouted out in alarm. "You can't do that! You'll be killed! Before we do anything we should inform Ozpin and ask him what to do first."
"I'm afraid he's correct Ms. Schnee." They all turned around in surprise to see Ozpin and Glynda standing in the door way with concerned looks.
Neos spoke to them first. "So you heard all that then?"
Glynda nodded her solemnly before speaking. "Yes we did I'm sorry for what's happened. However I don't think you three should go it's too dangerous."
"Mother they're in danger! Who knows what will happen if we don't do what he says!" Ozpin nodded his head.
"I agree with that assessment. At best they could find this man, and then broadcast their location to us. That way we could send back up to help them."
Glynda pursed her lips. "I still don't like this but it seems the best choice."
"It won't work." Everyone turned to Yang while Zach nodded in agreement.
"What do you mean it won't work?" Glynda was worried even more so now.
"When we fought he said he cut off all communications in the area making it so we couldn't contact anyone for help. He was even able to cut off the strange bond Blake has with Zach."
Zach then spoke up. "This is why I'll know where they are. Right now he's blocking her but I know where to follow as soon as he lifts whatever is blocking it."
"Yeah and it doesn't help that he freaking talks through his mind! He'll know if we're bringing more than the desired people."
Neos sighed. "Well I guess that's it then. At least I can fight him with my abilities that don't use aura." Looking around he frowned when he saw a broken Crescent Rose and Gambol Shroud.
That was when his adoptive mother yelled out in anger. "Again I won't allow you to go!" Everyone turned to Glynda while Neos had an exasperated look on his face.
"Mother this is the only way to rescue them! I won't just sit here while they're in danger!"
"And I won't lose you like Summer!" That made Neos stop to look at her in confusion.
"Who's Summer? Wait don't tell me that…" Yang picked up where he left off.
"Do you mean Summer as in Summer Rose? Ruby's mother?" She looked nervous now while also worried.
"I… Ozpin?" She looked at Ozpin to see what she should do. He only sighed and put a hand on her shoulder.
"It's about time that they know Glynda." She took a deep breath before answering him.
"You're right they deserve to know."
Yang was starting to look panicked. "Deserve to know what?! What aren't you telling us?!"
"We were on the last mission Summer Rose ever took. It was also the same day we found Neos, ED'E, and Raze'thur." looking at both Yang's and Neos's shocked faces they recounted the events that transpired that day. By the end of it Neos was up against the wall covering his eyes.
"It's all my fault… It's my fault…" Peeking out from behind his hand he looked at his adoptive mother with dead eyes. "Why didn't you tell me when I actually met Ruby?"
"Oh… Neos it's because we knew you'd act like this! It isn't your fault that she died."
"Hahaha" His laugh was hallow which made Glynda worry even more. "Really it's not my fault that Ruby grew up without her mother? That's funny…"
"Neos…"
"NO! If I never showed up that day Ruby would still have an important piece of her life! I… I love her and now I don't think I'll ever be able to look her in the eye again… Knowing that it was my fault that her mother died." Yang who was quiet at that point grabbed Neos by the front of his coat and punched in the face while still holding onto him. Neos ended up spitting out some blood before just looking at Yang sadly.
"Do what you want I'll probably deserve more…" Everyone was about to step in to stop her but Zach spoke up.
"Don't interfere! This needs to be done, trust me." Ichigo nodded his head in agreement he himself understood since he had the same thing happen to him with his human friends when they found out about him. Zach's words made the others back off reluctantly. Yang's face was seething in anger and pulled her fist back Neos just stood there dejectedly. But what happened next surprised everyone but Zach. Instead of punching him Yang let go of his coat and gave him a hug.
Neos had the biggest look of surprise however. "B-but why? I-I don't understand? Don't you blame me?" He was stuttering with his words.
However Yang had a clam and understanding voice. "If it was about me then yes I would." She pulled back while still holding his shoulders. She looked at him directly in the eyes. "However this isn't about me. This is about Ruby, and I know that she wouldn't blame you. So I won't either, especially now that I understand just how much you truly care for her." She let go of his shoulders to hold his hands. "Besides I'll be counting on you to save her and protect her from now on."
"But I!..."
"Nope no buts, I promise you if you tell her this she'll say she doesn't blame you either. And in that case if you truly believe you're at fault than protect her until you finally kick the bucket." Surprised Neos stood there for a few moments before doing something unexpected. He punched himself in the face and held it there for a few moments. When he lowered it his eyes were once again that of a determined dragon.
"Alright then I swear to you on my draconic soul I'll protect her." Yang smiled and gave him a thumbs up.
"That's the Neos we all know and love!" He nodded his head while turning to his adoptive mother.
"Mother I'm sorry but you heard me I'm going and I'm going to make things right." She looked down with some tears coming from her eyes. Neos seeing this embraced her in a tight hug.
"I just don't want to lose you."
Rubbing her back he answered her. "I know and I promise I'm not dying here." They let go while Glynda wiped the tears out of her eyes and gave him a smile.
"Alright then I suppose I don't have a choice but you come back alright?"
"But of course! Besides I find the aspect of death not really appealing right now. I'll be fine, besides I'll have Ichigo and Zach with me!" At this Zach gave a smile.
"Yep with the three of us but mostly me, I doubt we'll be able to lose." Everyone gave a small laugh at his joke. And that was when Weiss spoke up to Zach.
"Well I guess I can't stop you then. Just come back with Blake and the dolt. I still need to make myself the best teammate ever. And beat you in a fight." Zach only nodded at her before she motioned for him to get closer to her. "Tell me did you know Yang would react that way?" Her answer to her whisperings was a cocky smirk.
"Sorry but that's a secret." She just sighed and shook her head however she was still smiling. Velvet felt quite out of place but decided to say a few things to Ichigo.
"Umm I would also like you to come back safely Ichigo." Ichigo smiled at the brown haired girl and gently rubbed her head. To her it felt quite nice, definantly better than having Cardin pull on her ears.
"Yeah don't worry I promise to come back, and I never break my promises." Everyone now satisfied with their promises they stepped out of their way as they walked out the door and waved on last time. Becoming more serious the trio went and grabbed all their stuff from their room and took off to get on the soonest ship to Vale. After all they had a lot of work cut out for them.
Slayer: Here we are once again! At this point we'll be deviating even more from canon. As for why the kidnapper was afraid of Blake's attacks you'll just have to see. But trust me all will become clear as time moves on. But as a hint the reason sort of has something to do with the power system I put in place in the original TOTDG. This will be rewritten eventually, which is actually why I haven't gotten rid of Bladedancer yet. But as for this chapter Shadow the dark guard's mascot showed up finally in story.
Shadow: Wow you've turned me into a merchant. Oh well I'm back in business again!
Slayer: You were in an omake for the Adventures story I made though.
Shadow: Yeah but this is the main series so this is more important to me.
Haze: Yep quite interesting yet I'm more of wondering who that dashing Psion was.
Bladedancer: Oh come on everyone can tell that it's you! Plus if people read the last story they'd know that you disappeared from the W.R.C during the end of the story. Even though you weren't really in the story despite yourself being an admiral!
Haze: Fine be that way!
Blake: I've realized why you were laughing in the author's box at the top there.
Slayer: Yep all hail my genius! Also as a side note more than likely Ichigo will be paired with Velvet. (looks at readers) You can only blame yourselves since no one voted. Well correction three voted… all for Velvet. And I sincerely thank you for that.
Ichigo: Don't we get a say in this?
Slayer: Nope! Just like how Blake didn't get a say in if she got teleported to an alternate dimension in my other story! Also I'll probably be taking down the pairing poll soon for a different one.
Yang: Oh yeah didn't me and the Courier blow up your house with C-4?
Courier: Yep that was funny! Oh I can't wait for more of that story since it's all about me! Although blowing up your house was still awesome!
Yang: Yeah! (Fists bumps with Courier)
Slayer: (Sighs) Hence why we're in the Lucky 38. This time I'm making the house blast proof. Anyway like, review, the usual. Please do review though! I need them badly! Anyway this has been Slayer Infinium signing off!