Sangokuden x RWBY: Hunt of the Armored War Gods
Written By: GKoh
Chapter 5: Guests Part 1
War still raged on at Shoku and getting more intense as time passed by. Hence, all the villagers were being hastily evacuated.
"Everyone! Please remain calm and follow us!" Ryuubi shouted while trying to maintain her composure amidst this chaos. The pink-haired girl along with several others were given orders by Kanu to look after the villagers and monitor the evacuation while she, the generals and the rest of their forces head to confront the invaders.
Ryuubi couldn't believe this has happened. Today was supposed to be a time of celebration.
Then, one of the soldiers approached Ryuubi. Ryuubi responded to him, "Has everyone been evacuated?"
The guard replied, "No, we discovered a few villagers trapped under their houses. We need help to get them out."
Hearing this, Ryuubi turned to Gien. "Enya, you and I will help the soldiers in rescuing those trapped. Tanpopo, can you make sure you lead everyone to safety?"
"No problem," Batai saluted.
XXX
Following the soldier, Ryuubi and Gien arrived to where the villagers were trapped. Indeed, the two could see the houses had crumbled down to the ground. Panic sounds were heard underneath the houses proving that there were people trapped and the soldiers were trying their hardest to lift the heavy roofs and debris.
Without a moment of hesitation, the two females entered the scene and aid their fellows. When Gien came, everything went well in an instant. Her strength lifted the debris allowing soldiers to pull the citizens out of their destroyed homes.
Ryuubi tended to them and ensuring that they were okay. So far, everything was fine. Now all they needed to do was to escort these people away from the battle.
But just as they were about to, Ryuubi noticed something not far from where she was standing. Behind a gap between the houses, she noticed a dark blur passing by them.
Ryuubi blinked. She thought maybe it was just a hallucination but quickly rejected it. She was living in a world where gods and undead existed. That meant whatever she saw, it might be real.
"Enya, you take the wounded to safety," Ryuubi ordered Gien. Then she looked at the soldiers. "A few of you, follow me."
XXX
Unknown to the majority of the Shoku forces who defended their home, something had went passed their defenses and going deeper into the kingdom.
The figure resembled a humanoid salamander. His black body was thin and blood red tribal markings were present all over. Covering the monster's face was a skeletal mask and the most unusual about him was that his hair was on fire.
Everything went as planned. With the creatures called the Grimm confronting the army of Shoku and their Armored War Gods, this allowed the one who controlled the beasts the opportunity to enter the kingdom and complete his real objective. However, he must do it quick as the Grimm were being cut down in large numbers.
Finally, he arrived. In front of him was Shoku's large storage house.
This kaijin or Salamander smashed the doors of the storage house opened and entered. Inside the house, large shelves were lined. Many contained pottery, jewelry and more. The monster growled as he searched around.
"Where is it?" the figure hissed. He knocked a few of the stored goods out of the shelves in frustration. After exiting out of the first row, he head to the second row. There, he saw the second row of shelves had books much to his satisfaction. He also noticed there are large stack of books on the floor, yet to be placed on shelves.
He clawed his way through the stacked books. After finding nothing, he head to the shelves. After a short browsing, he stopped as he noticed one book in particular. It was thick and had attractive features on the cover. It was worth noting from the Salamander that he sensed magic within it.
"Finally, there you are." The Salamander Kaijin went to grab it but just as he was near contact, electricity burst out of the book, shocking him in the process.
BZZZTTT!
"Gah!" Salamander stepped back. He looked at his hand which was smoking. Then, he looked at the book with contempt. "You think that'll stop me."
The Salamander raged with his hair flaring up. Flames appeared on his hands next and the Salamander attempted to grab the book once more. The book once again sent out the electricity to defend itself.
It was an intense battle but the book's power began to crumble under the Salamander's. The Salamander intensified the flames on his hands and with one more push, the electricity dispersed.
The Salamander chuckled as he sensed the magic of the book was weakened. With that, he took the book from the shelf. He opened it and turned the pages until he came across one that piqued his interest.
Then, the kaijin sensed something. He leapt back avoiding a sword strike from a soldier of Shoku. More soldiers came to their comrade's aid.
"Halt!" Hearing a shout, Salamander turned his head a little and saw a few more soldiers behind him, wielding swords and spears. He wasn't threatened at all and snorted.
The soldiers advanced slowly to the monster but the monster had a trick up his sleeve. As they converged on him, he took something out of the book before turning the book hot red. Without looking back, he tossed the book to the soldiers from behind and then, the book exploded causing a huge cloud of smoke and blasting the soldiers away.
The soldiers were blinded by the smoke. The Salamander went for the attack. He kicked one soldier in the gut before grabbing another soldier and snapped his neck.
Two soldiers jumped in but were hit by the Salamander's fireball. Unknown to all, small sparks resulted from the fireball landed on the other shelves where it began to grow in strength.
One more soldier attempted to cut down the kaijin but the Salamander flipped him to the ground. Before the Salamander could kill him, his claws were blocked by a sword.
The Salamander jumped back and looked at his next opponent. It was Ryuubi.
Ryuubi analyzed the kaijin. While its color matched the creatures that attacked Shoku, there was no denying who he really was. "You're from the RinJyuKen Akugata."
"The RinJyuKen? Hah!" the Salamander scoffed. "Don't affiliate me with that pitiful group and their scumbag leader. I follow a stronger pack."
Ryuubi gripped her sword tightly. "In the name of Gaim-sama, I demand that you stop what you're doing."
Ryuubi may not have had years of training like many of her comrades, but she had been undergoing training from Nagata, the best swordsman of Shoku. It was time for her to put her skills to the test.
"Putting your life on the line to protect your property in the name of your lord. How disgustingly noble," the Salamander sneered.
Ryuubi went into a stance. Determination and resolve was reflected in her gaze. She then dashed forward and slashed at the Salamander. Much to his surprise, the blade glowed and he was slashed across the chest.
Normal weapons normally had no effect on a Rinrinshi. It would take considerable force to inflict any damage on their bodies. However, the weapon Ryuubi wield was no ordinary blade. It was known as the Dragon Claw Saber, a legendary weapon that was a reward from Heaven for her sacrifice of her family heirloom. He hissed out and in retaliation slashed at her with his claws. Ryuubi gasped and swiftly parried with her sword. Sparks erupted on contact as both combatants recoiled.
Ryuubi was in awe at her skill but she had no time to praise herself. She needed to handle this creature somehow. So far, her sword was capable of wounding it. Perhaps she would be able to defeat it.
The Salamander's sneer turned into a grin. "Surprising. One of you is actually able to harm me. I can see why you're such a legend someday. Though, are you ready to sacrifice the lives of your men for the sake of victory?"
Ryuubi turned her head and noticed a few of her soldiers were alive but they were injured. Seconds later, she noticed the air was getting thick. She looked around and saw the room was on fire.
Ryuubi had two choices: Continue to fight but sacrificed herself and her men or aid her men and fight another day.
Soldiers would leave one of their own if it meant to fulfill the mission but Ryuubi wasn't one of them. With that, Ryuubi lowered her sword and ran to aid the soldiers.
The Salamander RinJyuKen grinned at this before flaming debris crashed to the floor seconds later.
It was difficult but Ryuubi and her men managed to get out. The girl looked at her soldiers. She initially had nine accompanying her but only three were now left. A tragedy it was but at least these men were alive, thanks to Ryuubi.
"KAAWWW!"
Ryuubi heard a terrifying shriek. She looked up and saw a giant black and white bird. The flying beast descended down. Ryuubi thought it was about to attack them but she was wrong.
The creature flew past them. Ryuubi turned around and gasped. The roof of the storage room was smashed apart and coming out of the hole was the Salamander Rinrinshi who jumped and latched onto the giant bird's leg.
The bird continued to fly further away from Shoku. Once the land was no longer seen, the Salamander Rinrinshi looked at the prize he held. His mission was complete.
XXX
Moments ago after an intense battle, Armored War God Gaim had suddenly disappeared. Everyone witnessed in shock and panic frantically, believing a mysterious force had just taken their leader away like what happened at the Imperial Tournament.
Fortunately, it was just a short while as their god returned to them, relieving them. But then came another surprise, appearing after their leader was a mysterious young girl and when Nagata saw her, he said one word that shook Kanu and the rest up.
"Mom?"
"EEEEHHHH!"
Everyone screamed in shock.
Kanu couldn't believe it. This young girl who wore a red cloak, came out of nowhere and fell on top on her beloved Nagata-sama was his mother.
She recalled him speaking to her about his mother. How she had died when he was young, leaving him to be raised by his aunt and uncle. Could this be some kind of miracle? If so, how come his mother appeared so young?
As for Ruby, she had the same reaction as them. When she heard the young man said 'mom', her face showed bewilderment. "Excuse me!"
"Hawawawa!" Komei panicked. Her mind began to unravel after hearing such a shocking revelation. "That's Gaim-sama's mother?!"
"Gaim-sama's mother…" Ren whispered in astonishment. Even she was taken aback at what she had heard. "...but so small."
"Nagata-niichan, is it really true?" asked Chouhi, who was surprisingly excited about what she heard. "Is that your mother?"
Then, Nagata's senses finally returned. He looked at everyone's expressions as a result of what he said. They were really confused right now. He scratched his head nervously while he spoke, "No. At least I think she isn't."
"Choose your words, man! Look at what you did to that poor girl." Iori pointed Nagata towards Ruby.
"This can't be. This can't be," Ruby stuttered non-stop. She was walking back and forth, trying to make sense of the situation. "This can't be. This can't be."
Honestly, she was supposed to go find Blake with her friends, only to come across the White Fang. Then, it got freakier as monsters in weird outfits showed up and started attacking everyone. Then, a guy in armor came and saved them before she ended up falling here just like during initiation. The only downside was that she couldn't see any of her friends and this guy had just called her 'mom'.
Then, Ruby stopped, telling herself, "I know. I must be dreaming or something. Yeah that's it, dreaming. All I need to do is pinch myself and I'll be back with Yang and the gang."
Ruby pinched herself, giving a cute 'ow' in the process. However, she opened her eyes and saw she was still where she was. "Okay, it's not a dream. Maybe it's…a prank!"
"A what?" said Bacho.
"Yeah, a prank and all of you are a part of it," Ruby pointed in accusation. "I bet Yang hired all of you. She did the same thing on my birthday once."
Ruby shouted around, "Okay Yang, you got me. That was a really good one. Come on out and show your cheeky smile."
As Ruby ran around trying to find her sister and shouting her name, everyone watched and sweatdropped at the same time.
"So, is anyone going to stop this?" Bacho asked the others.
"I'll do it," Nagata spoke. It was he, after all who started all this. Nagata slowly approached the girl. "Uhh...Mom...I mean Miss."
Ruby leapt away while raising her arms to defend herself. "Back off guy, who's actually an actor who I accidentally crashed on top with my rear, who has girls with pointy spears and then stare at me, touch my face and call me 'mom'. I am not a mommy. I have yet to have the urge to see a guy in that way and have yet gone on a date."
Ruby said all of that in less than ten seconds and somehow Nagata managed to understand all of it.
"Just slow down, calm down, and take deep breaths," Nagata instructed. Ruby was about to resume defending herself from the young man until the two teens' eyes met. At that moment, things were calming down.
Ruby's heart was beating slowly and she lowered her arms. What she was doing now was just staring at the boy. One moment Ruby was about to fight but when she and the boy were close, she was now feeling relaxed. Ruby couldn't explain it but there was something about the boy that she could trust. So, she closed her eyes and took deep breaths.
"Are you calm now?" Nagata inquired Ruby.
"Yeah, I am," Ruby answered. Nagata smiled. Meditation and breathing exercises were part of his basic training.
"So, you believe your sister hired us as actors to mess with you?" Nagata summarized.
"Well, of course. She likes to prank me all the time," Ruby answered.
"What was the last thing you remember before you crashed on top of me?" Nagata questioned.
Ruby's mind began to clear. She recalled, "Well, I remembered trying to save my friend from those pale-faced men dressed like martial artists."
"Okay," said Nagata.
Ruby resumed, "It didn't work out too well. Luckily the armored guy showed up and he was kicking serious butt on those robed people."
"And what happens after that?"
"Next thing that happened was a flash of light and I was here." Ruby finally remembered everything. That actually happened. Ruby stared at Nagata. "So, you're not an actor Yang hired to mess with me, right?"
"The only acting I've ever done was during my middle school play," Nagata told her. He recalled that day fondly. They did 'Journey to the West' and he played the Monkey King Son Goku. "Also I only met you just now."
"Just now?" said Ruby.
"Remember, you were fighting those pale-faced men dressed like martial artists." Nagata pointed something below him.
Ruby stared at Nagata and then at the belt he wore. It was the same belt as that armored warrior she had seen. Ruby connected the dots and made the connection.
"It was you," Ruby realized. "You're the guy in the orange armor."
Nagata nodded and introduced himself, "That's right and it's nice to meet you."
Nagata offered his hand and Ruby sheepishly shook on it. "Same as well."
"Is something wrong?"
"Wrong? No," Ruby said. "There is no wrong. It's the opposite exactly. It's stupendous, it's fantastic, it's mind blowing. Past few days were not so great because my friends were butting heads and one of them left after we found out she was Faunus. We went to search for her and try to get her back and eventually we did. I was happy but then not only did I find my friend, I also met you, the armored rider from my dreams which I had for a few weeks just for your information. I shouted and jumping high and Penny did the same to support me. Then, Yang came crashing…"
"Does anybody understand what she is saying?" Iori pleaded. He couldn't keep up. It was like watching television in fast forward.
"She reminds me a lot of Ryuubi," Chou'un quipped at Nagata. "When she learned that you're her favorite god, she went crazy and starts fawning over you."
Ruby halted and questioned Nagata, "God? Wait, you?"
"That's right." Bacho patted Nagata on the shoulder. "You're looking at our great leader, Armored War God Gaim-sama."
"You're a god!?" yelled Ruby. While Ruby knew she would encounter bizarre creatures such as the Grimm but a god was not something she expected to see. Her mind has just been blown.
"It's a title the people came up with. They see the armor, they hear about the Messenger of Heaven, and they made up the title. We all carry that title now," Nagata explained.
Ruby was taken aback. "We? You mean there's more of you?"
Nagata nodded. "Yeah, I'm the god known for the sword, there's one god with the hammer, another god with giant fists, and there's a god known for his big spear."
Iori coughed, "Innuendo."
Nagata threw a glare at his friend and added, "He's the one with the big guns."
"Double innuendo," Iori coughed again.
"Okay, I kinda getting the idea," Ruby understood. A bit at least as she got lost a bit at the middle. Then Ruby noticed something. She looked around at her surroundings and after that, she asked, "Where in part of Remnant am I?"
"What's Remnant?" Bacho asked.
Ruby was taken aback a second time. "Remnant, you know. The world that looked like a smear from a napkin, filled with obviously dark and sinister looking giant monsters and brave and dashing Huntsmen and Huntresses coming in to stop them."
Ruby looked to the group in bewilderment. "The world we're standing right now."
"Well, we call this world Earth and specifically you're in Ancient China," Nagata answered.
"You can't actually call it 'ancient', since it's the present time for us," Iori corrected.
"China?" Ruby placed her finger on her chin. "Is that part of a kingdom?"
"Well, it's not a kingdom. It used to be an empire but since the last dynasty fell to pieces it's now broken into separate kingdoms," Iori explained.
"That can't be." Ruby looked surprised. "The only safe human settlements are the four kingdoms: Vale, Vacuo, Atlas and Mistral."
"I hate to correct you but we have a lot more places than four kingdoms. Hundreds, thousands, even millions." Iori's words shocked Ruby. So far, she's been given more questions than answers. The people she met, one of them being a god, do not call the world Remnant but instead called it Earth. Apart from that, there are more kingdoms or settlements and based on their faces, they have never heard of the Grimm or Huntsmen. All of this just made her feel more of a stranger than before.
As for Nagata, he was trying to figure out what was happening. Ruby believed that she was still in a world called Remnant. According to the girl, Remnant had monsters roaming about along with these Huntsmen and Huntresses and that there are only four settlements where humans lived. What Ruby had said contradicted with what he knows. Nagata correctly guessed the reason for humans living in only four kingdoms was due to these monsters Ruby mentioned but even with the monsters he knew of, humanity was still carrying on fine. It's as if Earth and Remnant were two separate beings with two different histories.
Then, it hit him. Separate and different. Remembering the first few days when he arrived here, Nagata once theorized that the Ancient China he was in was an alternate version of the one he knew. It didn't receive a lot of thought though until it became relevant again back at the museum. He was in another world and what was stopping him from thinking that there were more like here. Thinking about it, Nagata found the answer.
Nagata spoke back to Ruby, "Miss-"
Ruby replied, "Ruby. Ruby Rose."
"Ruby?" Nagata paused and blinked for a bit before shaking it off to continue. "I think the reason why we don't know about Remnant and you don't know about Earth is that maybe…" Nagata paused a bit, "they're two different places."
"What are you saying?" Ruby questioned.
Nagata replied, "They're parallel worlds and you are in our world."
Ruby was silent. The words sank into her like a boulder into the ocean. "A parallel world. You mean like from those sci-fi comics about a world similar but different from ours?"
"I believe so."
"You're joking, right? Right?" Ruby looked at Nagata's eyes. They showed no hesitation and no movement. He wasn't lying at all to her.
"How can I get back? My family and friends. They must be worried," Ruby gasped. "My team! They're still back at Remnant probably fighting those...whatever they are."
"Ruby, please calm down." Nagata calmed Ruby down. "I don't know what's going on but I think it's best right now that you should come with us. You're not in your world anymore and I think we need to talk."
As everyone tried to contemplate on the situation, meanwhile from the hills at a forest not far from Shoku was the presence of an individual whose armor having the design of a small dark red fruit. He had witnessed the attack on Shoku by the monsters of black and white. This was something that was needed to be reported to his compatriots.
XXX
Back at Shoku, the mood was not a good one. The attack by the dark beasts affected the kingdom. It wasn't the loss of homes or personal belongings that affected the people. It was the loss of one of their own. Many civilians and soldiers were killed during that battle and all of them had families. Nagata made sure to deliver the news to the families personally. They were grateful for his kind words and sympathy. He knew the pain of loss as well but they would move on, hopefully.
Then, Nagata move on to Ryuubi. He heard about what happened from Gien. Ryuubi witnessed the presence of a Rinrinshi within Shoku while everyone was battling the monsters.
A horde of monsters and a Rinrinshi, both present during the attack. This was no coincidence. No doubt they were working together. That would be dealt with later as he has more concerns on comforting Ryuubi. When Ryuubi spotted the Rinrinshi, she led a group of soldiers to find it. She succeeded. However, the Rinrinshi escaped but not before killing six of the soldiers she had with her.
Nagata arrived at the area where the wounded were taken. He finally saw Ryuubi who was watching the treatment on her three soldiers, who were severely injured by the Rinrinshi. Nagata walked up to her and asked, "How are they?"
"The doctors said they'll make a full recovery," said Ryuubi who remained staring at the wounded soldiers.
"That's good to hear."
"Not all of them made it, though. I wish I hadn't spotted that Rinrinshi," Ryuubi wept. "If I hadn't, maybe they would still be alive."
"Touka, you did what you thought was right," Nagata assured her.
"I lost many of my soldiers," Ryuubi admitted sadly.
"True but what you did after saved the rest." Then all of a sudden, Nagata hugged Ryuubi. Ryuubi was blushing red. She was never this close to her favorite Armored War God. "Touka, I swear to you that I'll find who's responsible for this and bring them to justice."
The men who served him were his responsibility. As they died in the line of duty, their deaths were not in vain. Nonetheless, their deaths needed to be avenged.
"You're so strong, Nagata-sama," Ryuubi smiled and hugged her idol.
"Only because I have a reason to be strong. People look to us for support. If we lose hope then they lose hope. That is why when we get knocked down, we pick ourselves up and keep going. True strength is about never quitting."
After saying those words, Nagata saw his ally wiping the tears off her face. She nodded to him as a sign saying that she was alright now. After that, Nagata showed his hand and Ryuubi took it.
XXX
At the main household, Ruby was sitting on a chair alone in Nagata's office. Her mind was pondering on what she had learned. She was no longer in Remnant but in a world similar to it. A parallel world. She never thought they existed but she was now in one. Looking at the terrain, they were way different from the pictures of books she read regarding her world. She really hoped that there was a way to get back to Remnant.
Then, Ruby heard the door opening and entering the room was Kanu who held a tray with a cup of tea.
"Alright, here you go," Kanu said.
"Thank you." Ruby took the tea of the tray. She instantly drank a bit, only to wince with her tongue out.
"I should have warned you that the tea was still hot."
"It's okay, fault on my part." Ruby tried to speak but her tongue was a little redder than usual.
Soon, the other generals of Shoku came in and to keep Ruby company. Ruby looked at them all. While many of them were older than her, there were a few who were within her age or younger than her. That fact she gathered eased her. At least there was one thing that was similar to her world.
"How are you feeling?" asked Kochu.
"Pretty good I guess. A little spooked but still good," Ruby half smiled. "I mean it's not every day that you find yourself wind up in an alternate universe."
"Nagata-sama had the same thought when he first arrived here," Kanu chuckled.
Ruby felt more at ease. The people here were kind. Then, Ruby noticed one of them were near her. She was one of the younger ones with blonde hair and brown beret.
"If it's not much to ask but what is that?" Komei questioned Ruby.
Ruby looked at where Komei was staring. The silver eyed girl grabbed it and presented it to them. "Oh, that's my weapon."
The generals were perplexed that the rectangular object was a weapon. Seeing their looks, Ruby showed it to them. The gears turned and the object converted itself into its scythe form, shocking its audience.
"It transformed!" Bacho yelled.
"Ladies, meet Crescent Rose," Ruby smugly proclaimed.
"SSSUGGEEEII!" Chouhi, Batai and Komei shouted with much enthusiasm. Their eyes were sparkling like stars.
"Amazing, to think there was such a weapon that can hide itself in plain sight." Kanu was very impressed. The weapon was on a different class compared to the Armored War Gods' arsenal.
"It's very common on my world," Ruby explained.
"Really?" Batai was surprised to hear that.
"I want one!" Chouhi wanted to have a weapon similar to Ruby's.
Next thing that happened was Riri who went up to the student of Beacon. "Onee-chan, can I touch your cape?"
"Sure." Ruby knew the correct word was cloak but since Riri was very young, she let it slide.
Riri touched the red clothing and was amazed on how soft it was. She held part of it and rubbed it in her face. Riri happily said, "Feels like I'm in my bed."
Kochu giggled seeing her daughter this way before picking her up.
"Nagata-sama really gave us a fright. When he said 'mom', my mouth went this big," Bacho commented.
"Fortunately, that misunderstanding was cleared up," Komei said.
Ruby heard and was blushing. That part really frightened her. She was also embarrassed because of her little outburst in response to it.
The next thing that happened was the door opening again.
"We're back," a voice attracted everyone and entering the office was Nagata and Ryuubi.
"Are you okay, Touka-oneechan?" Chouhi asked as she walked towards her sworn sister.
Ryuubi smiled and patted Chouhi's head. "Yes, I'm fine. It was thanks to Nagata-sama that I'm better."
After that, Kanu and Chouhi comforted their sworn sister. Ruby looked at them before looking at Nagata.
"Did you guys get into a fight?" Ruby asked. Ruby noticed the wreckage when she was escorted.
"Yeah, a costly one at that. A lot of good men were killed during the attack," Nagata sighed.
Ruby saw the sadness within his eyes and she responded, "I'm sorry."
"Thank you."
Bacho sighed. "Man, can't believe those RinJyuKen bastards attacked us on such a good day."
"Well they are evil bastards," Chou'un pointed out. "They'll take any chance to spread fear and suffering."
"Evil doesn't take a holiday," quoted Iori. Everyone nodded in agreement to that.
Kochu asked, "Was there any reason for this attack?"
Chou'un spoke, "Isn't it obvious? They were merely doing this to lower our morale. We had our guard down and they struck without warning."
"I don't think so," Nagata said. "I talked to Touka. She said the Rinrinshi that was there was in some sort of mission."
Ryuubi nodded. "It's true. While everyone was battling, the Rinrinshi was entering the storage house."
"Wait, didn't we have all the books we recovered from Rakuyo kept in there?" said Iori.
"Correct," Nagata replied. "And looks like they found what they wanted. The first thing we have to do is find out what they were searching for and once we find out what that is-"
"WE SMASH THEIR BUTTS!" Chouhi shouted, eager to deliver payback on those walking dead.
"But we need to know where they found those wolf-creatures. They weren't Inves, I'm sure of it," said Iori.
Ruby's eyes widened when she heard Iori mentioned 'wolf-creatures'. "Did you say 'wolf-creatures'?"
Iori answered Ruby, "Yes, we were attacked by a pack of them."
"What did they look like?"
"They walked on all fours but were built like humans. They were covered in black fur and had bone white masks on their faces," Iori described.
Having heard the information, Ruby spoke, "Those sound like Beowolves."
In an instant, everyone turned to Ruby with surprised looks. Chou'un inquired, "How do you know them?"
Ruby replied, "Because Beowolves come from Remnant. They are a species of Grimm."
"And you're sure?" Nagata wanted to confirm.
"Positive," Ruby confirmed.
Learning this fact, everyone looked at each other, either worried or confused.
"Okay let's recap what we know," Nagata summarized, "First, we were attacked by these wolf monsters and thanks to Ruby, we now know they are called Beowolves and they came from her world. Then somehow I ended up in Ruby's world and encountered the RinJyuKen there."
"Two parallel worlds have intersected with one another," Iori grimaced. "Sounds like a plot from Kamen Rider Decade."
"Decade?" Gien questioned.
"The Armored War God of Infinite Worlds," Nagata explained. "He had the power to travel to parallel and alternate worlds."
Bacho raised her hand. "Sorry to interrupt but I don't really understand what you two are talking about. Parallel worlds? Alternate worlds? What do they mean?"
"Right." Iori realized that none of them were proficient in these kinds of things. Thus, they need to be explained.
Iori drew a circle on a sheet of paper. "Alright, so this is our world. Now, imagine if there is another world similar yet different from ours here." He drew another circle. "And not just another world but a whole bunch of worlds." He drew several more circles.
"You're talking about the Multiverse," Nagata concluded.
"Yes, exactly," Iori nodded. "For example, let's say Chouhi was choosing between fried chicken and noodles. Well presumably in one world, she chose fried chicken but there is a chance that she chose the noodles and with that, an alternate world is created."
"Um…what?" Nobody understood him until Komei joined the conversation.
"I think I understand," said Komei. "An alternate world is the result of decisions that we chose or chose not. It's like a river. The river that goes straight represents our world but there are smaller streams that branched out of the main one. Those are the alternate worlds."
"Correct, that's the meaning of parallel worlds," Iori continued. "Now here's the problem we're facing. All these worlds exist at the same time but in different dimensions. These dimensions are separate yet inhabit the same space. Only a barrier sets them apart. However, right now, it seems a barrier that keeps two dimensions separate now has a hole, most likely thanks to the RinJyuKen Akugata. Because of that, anything from either world can slip in."
Komei resumed, "You're saying that it's like a sheet of paper has gotten holes and things are slipping in back and forth."
"Yeah, kinda. Except the barrier between worlds is made of much sturdier stuff," Iori answered.
"So, there are a lot of these alternate worlds?" Komei asked.
"According to Multiverse Theory, there are infinite Earths," Nagata answered.
"There may be one world where Emperor Han didn't die or a world where we chose a different side compared to ours," Iori answered. "In at least one, you're all men."
"MEN!?"
"Yeah. The male Kanu has a long beard instead of long hair," Iori stated.
Kanu dreaded the thought.
"So, how am I supposed to get home now?" Ruby inquired.
"We know someone who might be able to help," Nagata told her.
"You do?" Ruby's hopes were high after hearing this.
"Unfortunately, we don't know how to get into contact with him. He just shows up when something important happens." He was referring to Chosen. He was helpful, but extremely creepy and meeting him always got awkward. Oddly enough, Marcus wasn't weirded out by him. "In the meantime, maybe you should stay in Shoku."
"Okay," Ruby nodded.
It was starting to get dark. With all the excitement that had occurred in the day, barely anyone noticed when the sun set. Also, when Ruby had come to this world, it was nighttime in Remnant so the red-hooded girl let out a yawn. How long had she been up? She really couldn't tell.
"Are you tired?" Nagata asked.
"Yeah," Ruby answered. "It was night when my friends and I were fighting those creepy RinJyuKen guys." Remembering her friends, she added worriedly, "I sure hope they're alright."
"If they are as strong as you've described them, then they shouldn't have any problem," Nagata reassured her.
"We'll have a room prepared for you," Komei informed Ruby.
"Actually, that won't be necessary, Shuri," Nagata stated.
Komei tilted her head. "What do you mean, Nagata-sama?"
XXX
Later…
Usually, Kanu and Nagata would have slept in his room and have a joyous experience but tonight was a…special case. Their new guest would have a room arranged for her but Nagata declined it. Instead, the Blue King proposed an alternative.
"Ummm…is this really okay?" Ruby nervously said.
Tonight, their new guest, Ruby Rose would bunk with Kanu and Nagata. When he first said this plan, everyone was completely caught by surprise. Ryuubi and Kanu shrieked at a high pitch as this was the first time Nagata ever decided something like this. Ryofu even had her skin paled after hearing that.
Fortunately however, Nagata continued explaining that Kanu and Ruby would be sleeping on the bed while Nagata would sleep on a mattress on the floor. Although that eased the girls a bit but still the idea was not pleasing.
"It's okay," said Nagata who interestingly has his mattress near the side where Ruby was sleeping.
Ruby continued, "You know, I can just go to another room and sleep there. I don't really mind."
Nagata cheerfully calmed the girl. "It's fine Ruby. It's fine. Think of it as a sleepover."
"This is actually my first time staying in a room with a boy," Ruby muttered to herself. Although she did sleep at the Beacon ballroom where boys and girls mingled but this room was more compact compared to the ballroom.
Nagata turned his head and silently whispered, "But for me, it's like being with you again."
Ruby blinked and stared at Nagata. "Wait, what?"
By the time Ruby poked her head out, Nagata was already asleep. Too late to ask, Ruby decided to comply with Nagata.
At the other side of the bed, Kanu watched Ruby going to sleep. Unlike Ruby, Kanu knew what was going on and sadly, she knew what was going on. Her eyes were saddened and she had no smile as she muttered, "Nagata-sama."
After that, she slept and hoped that tomorrow would improve things.
XXX
World of Remnant
The land beyond the walls of the four kingdoms was still the same as ever. The peace, quiet and the huge presence of blood thirsty beasts. However, the mountain rubble did had a slight change which was the huge hole that was somewhere in the middle.
The hole was dark, dirty and deep. It extended miles from the surface and out of the tunnel, there lay the fortress. Despite the damages to the structure caused by the mountain's collapse, the fortress remained standing.
At the throne room of the fortress was where the Rinrinshi of Grim Claw stayed. After acquiring the jewel, Wendigo decided it was time to withdraw. Using the knowledge he absorbed from the White Fang stationed at Mountain Glenn, the dark lord of the Grim Claw lead his remaining forces to a hideout the White Fang used to basically store their weapons and vehicles. They found a Bullhead and used it to escape the kingdom. After dumping the Bullhead and let it be shredded by the Grimm, everything was easy from there.
Ever since, Wendigo spent his time sitting on his throne and staring at the jewel he held on to his right hand. Based on what could be expressions on his face, he was displeased at it.
BOOM!
Ranha was passing the time trying out the weapons of this world. All of these tools were the spoils of war after the Grim Claw wiped out the White Fang who were at Glenn.
"These weapons are most fascinating." Ranha stared in awe at the guitar/shotgun weapon she held. She never thought mankind could have advanced this far and developed quite a colorful creativity as well. "Hey Alako, before I hang these beauties up as trophies, would you want some fun with them?"
"No, I'm good," said Alako who was wearing bloodied glasses. Something he picked up from a dead Huntsman.
"What are you doing?" asked Ranha who saw Alako writing on a book of sorts.
"I was doing this crossword puzzle these humans have made."
"Crossword puzzles?" Ranha scoffed. "Why are you wasting time with something so trivial?"
Alako replied, "A few of us enjoy trivial things. Gives us a hobby."
"Your hobby should be killing our enemies!"
"If you say so," Alako shrugged. "Anyway, what's a seven letter word for 'a person who is most unpleasant'?"
"Greetings my fellow killers. Your beloved Manda has returned!"
Then, a loud voice was heard. Everyone turned to the entrance and saw the Salamander Rinrinshi named Manda entering the room.
The sight of him caused Ranha to roll her eyes and turned to Alako.
"'Dirtbag'," she supplied.
"Oh, thank you Ranha." Alako proceeded to write it down.
"Manda!" Manda turned to the source of the dark voice, Wendigo.
Manda immediately went and knelt before Wendigo. "Wendigo-sama."
Wendigo spoke, "Judging by your mood, am I correct to assume that you've accomplished your mission?"
The Salamander Rinrinshi grinned. "I did my lord."
He revealed it. It looked like the handle for a sword. It was dark red in color and the pommel had a design of a majestic bird with black oval shaped eyes, a crest and a sharp beak. The handle gave the idea that the 'bird' has quite a long neck. The guard had the design of wings along with crafted feather like designs. Most intriguing about the guard was that at the middle of it there was a part missing.
Manda threw the part towards his master who grabbed it with his other hand. Wendigo was satisfied. At last, another piece was in their possession. Wendigo continued asking, "Where is Hu?"
Manda sighed. "Still observing the new generation from the world we left long ago."
Most fortunate that a way to return to their original world was possible. Wendigo and his followers remembered well. They assaulted the Capital of Rakuyo with the purpose of eliminating the Emperor and his Seal of Heaven. The battle against them was of epic proportions but sadly it was a short one when the Seal of Heaven delivered a powerful strike at them.
The battle was about to end but Wendigo would not let that. Before the blast could completely destroy them, Wendigo sent himself and his Grim Claw away from the battle and ended up in a strange new world.
That victory proved to be a hollow one however as with no means to return, they were stranded and were left to rot in this world for centuries. It seemed karma has finally caught up with them or so it thought.
Who would've thought that greedy men who discovered their fortress a year ago turned out to be their saviors? Wendigo had already made sure to repay Roman Torchwick for his 'assistance'.
Ranha entered the conversation. She asked Manda, "Where are all the beasts that were left under you and Hu's command?"
Manda answered, "I used the wolves to attack Shoku. They were annihilated which was not surprising. Our more impressive creatures however went rogue."
"So, they're loose!" Ranha shouted. "If those beasts were to ever make contact to a nearby settlement, they will attract unwanted attention."
Manda angrily retorted, "We already had it when that piece set foot on a kingdom ruled by an Armored War God and let me remind you that controlling these Grimm is not an easy task. Eventually, few of them would have break away from us."
Ranha scoffed while Manda looked around. He then asked, "Where's Varkaad?"
"Dead," Alako said while his eyes glued onto the crossword book.
Manda was surprised and then lowered his head as if mourning. "Such a shame."
Seconds later, he laughed. "Not. Good riddance of that wimp. I can't believe good magic was wasted on him."
Ranha turned her head away and whispered to herself, "He's not the only one good magic was wasted on."
"I heard that, Ranha," Manda scowled. "How did Varkaad died anyway? Let me guess, it was one of the inhabitants?"
Alako answered his comrade, "The one from the kingdom you just attacked, the Armored War God of the Ultimate Sword."
Manda stepped back. "What? How is that possible?"
"Apparently, he had help," Wendigo replied to his subordinate. After saying that, he looked at the jewel. He growled and tightened his grasp on it.
"Then, we have to attack now," Manda suggested.
"And what? Get ourselves destroyed," Ranha countered. "Can't you think of anything other than charging blind into a battlefield?"
"At least I'm thinking of something you sea whore!" Manda mocked.
Ranha retaliated, "Amphibious asswipe."
Manda's hair flared up. "That's it. You're dead."
Ranha pointed her sword at her comrade. "Bring it."
"ENOUGH!" Wendigo's shout echoed throughout the room causing everyone frozen in silence. "You should channel that anger against our enemies. Not at yourselves!"
"This hag suggests we should stand around and do nothing," Manda accused. "If I'm correct, that Armored War God may have contacted the rest of his brothers. We need to strike first. We still have our Rinrinshi puppets to support us."
Ranha snarled, "And the Armored War Gods have an army that outnumbered us 10 to 1 along with weapons that would wipe us out."
"I'm sorry, am I detecting fear from you two?" Wendigo mockingly asked, silencing the two Rinrinshi.
"Remember how this group was formed? Our world was a primitive one. The people there were simple but when they cannot fully comprehend something that was of the unknown, they either worshiped it like a god or destroy it like it was a demon. You know what that means. They were paranoid and they were afraid. And that's where we came in. When we see the unknown, we do not fear it. We embraced it and mold it to our use." The sinister kaijin lord chuckled. "That was our clear goal and thanks to it, we survived long even after being betrayed by Dai Shi."
Wendigo growled mad when he remembered that person. "The nerve of him. So in short, you two should not be afraid. The Armored War Gods are powerful but the problem is how long they will last which in due time we'll find out. Do I make myself clear?"
"Yes, Wendigo-sama," Ranha and Manda bowed before Wendigo.
"Fortunately for the both of you, I already formulated a plan which starts right now." Wendigo got up and barked his orders, "You two will return to our world and assist Hu. Alako, you're with me. We are going to enlist the most experienced of the beasts."
Manda replied, "But Wendigo-sama, it took us months to control a pack of young Beowolves and some of them showed slight resistance. How can you secure those?"
Wendigo turned his head and gave a nasty glare, frightening the Rinrinshi. "Why do you think I had all of you retrieving the Forge?"
Manda stepped away until Wendigo continued, "And Manda, I take it you took precautions on erasing any leads?"
Manda replied to Wendigo, "I did my lord. I took the initiative of burning the archives."
"Were they completely destroyed?"
"With how much fire was blazing, I have no doubt."
"Pray that it is true or I'll grill you." Wendigo's eyes gave a dark red glow. It was his way of expressing anger. With that, Manda gulped in fright. The worst punishment for failure was to become Wendigo's next meal and have your skills assimilated by him.
Wendigo then stared at the two items he held. His and his comrades' abilities in controlling these Grimm were most useful but there were limits. Now that he had these two artifacts, he wondered.
Wendigo placed the gem at the center of the guard. That was the guard's missing piece. In an instant they were combined, they began to flash and an aura was making presence around it.
The Wendigo looked at his prizes and was at awe. "The power, yesssss. I think I'm going to enjoy this."
XXX
World of Sangokuden
When morning came, Nagata rose up early. It was his turn to cook breakfast. With so many mouths to feed, he needed to get everything ready.
As a lord, he should leave menial duties such as cooking to the castle's servants. That was why they had maids to do things like cleaning. It was a large building and needed many people working around the clock to make it look presentable.
As the homebase of the Blue King, the castle needed to appear mighty and clean. It was a symbol of hope and also a symbol of how Shoku had risen up from a single village to become the kingdom it was now today.
He looked to the bed occupied by Kanu and Ruby and smiled. It reminded him of the time he once slept with his parents after a terrible nightmare.
"...Yang..." Ruby murmured.
Nagata frowned sympathetically. Like himself, Ruby was displaced and in a different world, separated from those she loved. While he and the other Armored War Gods had made peace with their decision to remain in this world, he swore he would find a way to return Ruby to hers so she could reunite with her loved ones.
XXX
A new day has arrived. Nagata prepared a smorgasbord for his friends. It was a traditional Japanese breakfast consisting of rice and miso soup. Side dishes consisted of tamagoyaki and broiled fish. A pretty modest breakfast but nobody complained as his cooking was always delicious.
Everyone's responses were electrifying with Bacho and Chouhi stuffing their faces nonstop.
Ruby looked at the food she held with her chopsticks. "Wow, this is good."
"Isn't it?" Chouhi smiled. "Nagata-niichan makes the best food."
"Nagata-sama is a very talented cook," added Kanu.
"Indeed," agreed Chou'un. "Back when we were traveling together, we needed work to cover our expenses. Fortunately, Nagata-sama's culinary expertise allowed us to afford comfortable lodgings."
"You did all the cooking, didn't you?" Ruby asked Nagata.
"No offense to the other girls, but at the time I was the only one with actual culinary skills," Nagata responded.
The girls would be waitresses in whatever restaurant or inn they ended up staying at while Nagata always ended up cooking in the back. Kanu had been reluctant as she deemed a lord like him shouldn't lower himself to doing menial tasks, but he refused to let them do all the work and pull his own weight.
It was for this reason that Kanu wanted to improve her own cooking skills. She wanted to make something delicious for her beloved lord.
"Is it okay if I order something specific?" Ruby waved her hands nervously. "If it's okay with you I mean."
"Relax, I'm cool with it," Nagata smiled before turning serious. "Alright, Kanu, Bacho, Chou'un, Iori and Kochu will survey the outside areas and ensure that none of the creatures are still here. The rest of you will stay and protect Shoku."
"Understood," everyone agreed.
"What would you be doing then?" inquired Iori.
"I've decided to give our guest, Ruby a tour around Shoku," replied Nagata.
While Ruby didn't seem to mind, the others were suspiciously looking at either her or Nagata.
XXX
Nagata and Ruby were walking down the hallway. It was at this point, Ruby observed the interior. She didn't do that much since she was more worried about a way to get back to Remnant. While the main house was not as grand like the castles in the fairy tales but it was still quite attractive.
"Where are we going?"
Nagata replied, "Ren didn't come for breakfast. So, I decided to bring it to her."
"That's very generous of you. I always thought kings had more important duties like paperwork."
Nagata grumbled, "I hate paperwork."
Nagata stopped and so did Ruby. "Ah, there we are. This is where she was since morning."
There was Ryofu, the silent yet monstrously strong beauty among Nagata's generals. She was sitting in the garden, surrounded by her pets. The dogs and cats got along with no trouble and there was even a bird perched on her shoulder.
Ruby squealed, "Puppies and kitties!"
The moment the two entered the garden, the dogs and cats ran up to them and tackled them like a great flood.
Ruby popped up of the literal pile of animals. She didn't mind it, though. She liked animals.
"Gaim-sama, here," said Ryofu as she approached the pair that her pets had 'assaulted'.
"Yeah, I'm here to give you your breakfast," said Nagata.
Ryofu blushed. "Thank you."
Ruby hugged one of the animals. "Awww, this one reminds me of Zwei."
Nagata heard Ruby said Zwei. At his original world, Nagata owned a dog named Zweiss.
"Is Zwei your dog?" Nagata asked.
Ruby replied, "Yeah, best Corgi ever!"
More puppies and kittens head towards Ruby. Even though she loved weaponry but Ruby was still young at heart and when she sees a cute little critter, her heart just melts.
Ruby was doing baby talk with the dog that was wearing a red scarf, "Tell me, what's your name little doggie?"
Ryofu took part and answered the silver eyed girl's question, "Sekito."
Ruby turned to Ryofu who said again, "Sekito."
Ruby then realized, "Oh, that's his name?"
Ryofu nodded and pick up another puppy. "This one's name Appa."
The young woman then introduced more of the animals, "Momo, Naga, Pabu, Flopsie, Bosco..."
Ryofu continued introducing her animals while Ruby was getting enthralled. Nagata couldn't help but smile.
"...Dug, Ha, Kuna, Mata and Ta."
After hearing all of their names, Ruby squealed and was jumping about. "Those are definitely cute names. You're a great name giver."
"Thank you," Ryofu bowed her head.
"Can't believe you have so many cute animals," said Ruby.
"Many of them lost their owners during war while some were merely abandoned. All of them have no homes. So, I took them all in and raise them," said Ryofu as she played patty cake with a kitten. "Gaim-sama came and gave us a home when our home burnt down."
Ruby looked to Nagata with a gaze of admiration. He opened his home to anyone in need.
Nagata chuckled. "Well, I couldn't resist leaving cute animals and cute girls with no home."
The last part caught Ryofu's attention and she blushed.
"Sometimes we hang out with the animals," Nagata added.
"Or train," said Ryofu. "But it's mostly the former."
Then in an instant, Ryofu stood beside Nagata and locked her arm with his.
Nagata scratched his head nervously. "Anyway, that's all for now. See you later, Ren. Come Ruby."
"Okay," Ruby nodded but before she did, she saw Ryofu was near her for some reason.
Ruby asked, "Uh, is there something wrong?"
Ryofu replied, "You're happy and Gaim-sama's happy."
All of a sudden, Ryofu's entire face began to glitter with her eyes sparkling like stars while giving a thumbs-up to Ruby. "Does this mean I win?"
"Uh, what?" Ruby didn't get it.
"Ruby, let's go."
The call from the Armored War God brought Ruby back. "Coming. Sorry, Ryofu."
"Call me Ren."
"Okay, Ren, I'll talk to you later." Ruby waved her hand and left.
"Bye." Ryofu waved to the smaller girl. From what she could see, it seemed the plan had worked. Probably a few more tries, Nagata will be her groom.
Ruby was about to catch up with Nagata. The Huntress wondered about Ryofu. What did the young woman meant did she win when Ruby herself and Nagata were both happy. The way Ryofu said, it made it sound like that she and Nagata had some kind of relationship. Ruby just met the guy yesterday. She was pretty sure that there was no relationship between her and Nagata. Maybe she'll talk to her again after whatever places Nagata wanted to show her.
"Mom?"
Ruby blinked for a bit.
'Why did that word pop up?' she thought.
Ruby finally caught up to Nagata. Nagata looked at the girl's face. "Is something the matter?"
"No, it's fine," replied Ruby. "So, where to now?"
"Oh, I have a few things in mind," Nagata said.
XXX
"You cannot defeat me Armored War God! I wear the cloak of nothingness, meaning you cannot see me," said a cloaked monster who surrounded a masked warrior.
The masked warrior countered, "Foolish monster. Even with your cloak of nothingness, I, the Armored War God of the Ultimate Sword shall not be hindered."
"You hear that. Gaim-sama is not afraid. Cheer him on. Cheer for our Gaim-sama," announced by the narrator, Ryuubi.
"Yeah!"
"Boo! Ugly monster! Boo!"
"Gaim-sama! Kick the monster on the ankles!"
The children cheered as they watched their god fighting a kaijin. Well, an actor posing as their god to be exact. This was after all a play.
The children were not the only ones here as Nagata and Ruby were also present. Having exited out of the main house, Nagata lead Ruby to a theater where a play was being carried out.
"You even have your own play?"
"Well, the being of unknown origin that mysteriously crashed landed onto a strange new world is pretty popular," Nagata quipped while staring at something of a fourth wall.
Ruby gave a small laugh. She watched the play continuing.
Nagata looked down and watched the play. He saw Ryuubi was acting as the narrator. He was glad that Ryuubi was doing fine despite what happened yesterday. Amongst the crowd of children was Riri and Gien with the latter mostly watching Ryuubi rather than the play.
"What's this?" announced Ryuubi.
WHACK!
"GAH!" yelled the monster who dropped to the floor in pain after being hit in the head by the actor playing Gaim.
"He did it! Gaim-sama did it!" Ryuubi shouted.
The children all cheered.
"Thank you for coming and for showing support to Gaim-sama and speaking of Gaim-sama, here he is." Ryuubi pointed the children to Nagata.
The children ran towards him.
"Gaim-sama! Gaim-sama!"
"Come on, play with us!"
"Show us your armor!"
Nagata chuckled at their assignment as Ruby observed. As a child, and even now, she was a fan of heroes. These kids were not so different.
"Kids, I can't play right now. I'm showing our new friend around," Nagata explained, referring to Ruby. The children's eyes were on Ruby instantly.
"Hi, kids," Ruby waved awkwardly.
"That's Red-oneechan," Riri pointed out. Hearing what Riri said, the children then swarm over Ruby.
"Wah! Riri said was true. Your cloak is nice."
"Show us that big box that changes into a big sword."
"Are you an Armored War God like Gaim-sama?"
"If it's true, that makes you an Armored War Goddess."
"Uh, well..." Ruby was getting pretty popular but sadly her awkwardness around people was keeping her back.
As Nagata watched this unfold, he suddenly felt his sleeve being tugged. He saw it was a young girl who was pulling.
"Gaim-sama!" said the young girl.
Nagata replied, "Yes?"
"I miss my daddy."
Nagata showed surprise in his face before showing gloom on it. "I see."
"Mommy said that he went to Heaven. We cannot see him because we're not old enough." Then, the girl pulled out a letter. "But Gaim-sama is from Heaven. Can you give this to my daddy?"
Nagata took the letter and read the contents before looking at the girl's face. There were tears on the letter. He didn't like to see young girls cry. With that, Nagata's response was to smile and pat the girl on the head.
He said to the girl, "Alright, I'll give this to your father."
"Really?"
"Yes." After saying that, Nagata received a hug from the girl and Nagata gave one in return. "Better?" The girl nodded and Nagata said, "Good. Now get out and have fun."
After the children left, the relieved Ruby went to Nagata. "What did you and that little girl talk about?"
Nagata answered, "Her father was one of the soldiers that served under me and was one of the victims that were lost when the Grimm attack," Nagata sighed. "She asked me to give this letter to him."
Ruby saddened after hearing it and said, "It's hard taking that kind of burden."
"Yeah. Her father and the others died serving Shoku and me. They died to protect this kingdom in my name. So, I have to take responsibility for their deaths and make sure they didn't die in vain."
"Leadership isn't all that glamorous, is it?" Ruby asked.
Nagata sadly replied, "It never really is. When you win, you receive glory. However, in a war, there is always a price you need to pay. You need to send your soldiers out, knowing they may not survive."
"Anyway, moving on." Nagata took a deep breath and moved on. "There's another place I want to take you.
XXX
"There we are," Nagata said. When they arrived, Ruby saw many scarecrows were set up all over the area in front of her and all of them had bullseyes painted on them.
"Oh, a gun course," Ruby said excitedly.
Nagata explained to Ruby, "I asked a few of the villagers to let me take a bunch of their worn down scarecrows. It may not be fancy like those in our worlds but it'll do."
Nagata picked up a bow and arrow. Nagata readied himself. He pulled the arrow. The target within sight, Nagata released the arrow and fired. Unfortunately, it hit a rock instead.
"Shoot," Nagata cursed himself.
Then after that…
BANG!
One of the scarecrows was blasted apart. Nagata looked to his side and saw it was Ruby who was responsible as the barrel of her Crescent Rose was smoking.
"Wow, that's a really cool weapon you have there," Nagata admitted.
"Yup, Crescent Rose is my sweet baby," Ruby smiled.
Nagata blinked. "Your baby?"
Ruby explained, "I built her myself."
"Wow. Now that is impressive."
"Not as impressive as a magic belt that materializes armor using locks," she countered.
"Well, I didn't build my gear. You must be a whiz with weapons if you made a scy-fle," he complimented.
"Scy-fle?" she asked, cocking an eyebrow.
"Scythe and rifle hybrid. A scy-fle," he explained.
"Just call her Crescent Rose. Scy-fle just sounds weird."
"OK," Nagata continued. "Can I try it?"
"Sure," Ruby said and she handed her weapon to Nagata.
Nagata now felt the Crescent Rose. Surprisingly, it was very light. He pointed the Crescent Rose at a scarecrow. Nagata readied himself in case the weapon had a powerful recoil. Focusing and saw a good point, Nagata fired.
BANG!
Nagata missed as he pouted. "My aim's terrible."
Ruby noticed Nagata's hands were shaking a little. "Didn't you use that gun/sword thing?"
"I did but I was more effective with it when I'm in the armor." He was more of a melee fighter and he rarely used his Musou Saber's gun during combat, only using it when he needed to make some space between him and his opponents. He even preferred using the Sonic Arrow as a melee weapon more than the long-ranged one. As for Kachidoki Arms, he mainly used the Kachidoki Bata as makeshift battle staffs and he used the DJ Gun for multiple opponents where accuracy wasn't an issue. He used the High Pitch machine gun fire to mow down multiple enemies and with its shooting rate he never missed gunning any of them down. He also preferred using the Taiken Mode.
"I can teach you if you want."
"Really?" Nagata asked Ruby. "You can?"
"Sure, let me come over here," Ruby nodded as she walked up to Nagata. Then, she grabbed a hold of his arms. Ruby leaned closer and her front was in contact with Nagata's back. "Make sure you level your arms when you want to aim."
Normally, Ruby would be flustered to the max right now when she was close with people that were not of her family. However as she had said before, Nagata was an exception. The only thing Ruby could described about Nagata that explained this was that he had this Aura around him that felt familiar.
As for Nagata, he was blushing from Ruby being very close to him but it was unlike those that signified the person was feeling awkward or embarrassed. No, Nagata was feeling warm. He had a smile that went along with the reds on his cheeks.
Ruby moved Nagata's hands and when she saw it was ready, she yelled, "Fire."
BANG!
"See, that wasn't so hard," said Ruby as she let go of Nagata. Nagata stared at the now charred scarecrow.
Nagata flexed his fingers. After the first and second time, Nagata really felt the power within Ruby's weapon but more importantly the strength within Ruby for being able to wield such a weapon. "You really are strong."
"And not just strong." Ruby disappeared for a moment much to Nagata's shock until she reappeared behind him. "I'm also superfast which comes in most handy when dodging the bad guys."
Nagata asked, "Is your world that dangerous?"
"Well not as dangerous as it was before." Ruby gave a sad smile. She looked up at the sky as she tells her tale, "Back then, we were heavily squeezed from both sides. One side was our own kind and the other, the Creatures of Grimm that have existed since as long as humans have been around."
"That must be rough."
Ruby nodded. "It was but thankfully, we discovered Dust and the ability to harness Aura, giving us a chance to defend ourselves from the Grimm. We've had wars but after that, we are now living in a time of peace."
"Must be nice," Nagata replied.
"So what about you?" Ruby asked Nagata. "What's your world like?"
"The world I come from is pretty modern and we're mostly at peace. However, wars still take place and people can't get along all the time," Nagata answered. "As for this world, we are living in a time of war. We enjoy a brief moments of peace but ever since the Imperial Government collapsed, smaller factions and the other kingdoms have been trying to gain power by absorbing the surrounding territories that used to belong to the empire."
"Guess your worlds and mine aren't so different."
"Yeah." Nagata turned away from Ruby and lowered his head. The more he spent time with her, the more the precious memories of his old days were returning. However, when he saw that little girl who gave him that letter for her father and the talks about war, it was also bringing back the bad ones. The most significant was the event that took his parents away from him. Nagata must ensure that doesn't happen.
"Gaim-sama!"
Nagata lifted his head and saw a soldier heading towards him and Ruby. "We've completed pulling out all the debris out of the storage house. It's safe to enter."
"Good." Nagata's face turned serious. Now to find some clues.
XXX
It was time to investigate the ruins of the storage room. The Rinrinshi also known as the Salamander Rinrinshi took something from there and they need to find out what that was.
Out of everyone, Komei was the most devastated. She had grand plans to read those sacred books but fate has taken that right from her. Komei held the ashes and her eyes showed tears comically.
"These poor books. Never again would they be read." Komei was a scholar at heart and thus the lost chance to gain new knowledge from the books was a huge blow to her. They had worked hard to recover them but they had ended up like the ones that had burnt in Rakuyo.
Nagata felt sad for the young girl. When this was over, he'll figure something to cheer Komei up.
"Nagata-sama!" Ryuubi's voice attracted him. Nagata went to her. Ryuubi knew it was hard losing her men but that won't stop her. What she can do now was to help on finding the Rinrinshi responsible for this and bring him to justice. This was why she was helping in the investigation.
Ryuubi pointed. "This was where the Rinrinshi was. He was holding a book and when we got close to him, he threw it and blew it up."
Nagata looked around. According to Ryuubi and the surviving soldiers, the Salamander Rinrinshi was surrounded. The monster retaliated by first throwing the book at the soldiers that were behind him before going on the offensive.
Nagata thought about it. Although it should be completely destroyed, Nagata believed that some part of it may still be intact. If it was, then it would solve this mystery.
But so far nothing. All he saw were ashes, concrete and wood. He was about to move on until finally, he noticed something. Under the piles of wood, he noticed a tiny light underneath.
Curious, he went to it. He pulled the debris away and swept away the piles until he found it.
"What's this?" Nagata whispered. He stared at the object he just took. It was just a cover of a book but it was glowing gold.
In his experience, book covers didn't glow. If a book cover glowed, it wasn't normal, unless it was covered in glow in the dark paint. It was then he saw something that really caught his interest.
At each corner of the cover, there were pictures which Nagata recognized: The Azure Dragon, the Vermillion Bird, the White Tiger and the Black Turtle. At the center of the cover, there was a fifth picture and it depicted the Yellow Dragon.
Nagata didn't ponder long as all of a sudden the book started to shake. Nagata tried to hold it tight but it was futile and he dropped it to the floor. Then, the cover gave off a burst of light.
"Whoa."
XXX
Yesterday
Meanwhile, the rest of Ruby's friends were having adventures of their own.
"What the blarg?"
When Yang opened her eyes, she saw herself looking up at trees and even more trees. Stars surrounded her head as she started to recover. Shaking herself to make the stars go away, she stood up and dusted off her clothes.
"Now where am I?"
The last thing she remembered was the fight at the abandoned factory before some huge burst of light engulfed her and everyone else.
"I'm guessing I'm not in Vale anymore," she commented. Yang had traveled a lot around Vale. She was very observant of her surroundings and the environment she was currently at did not match what she saw in Vale. It did remind her of the Emerald Forest, though.
Not the type of girl to wait around, Yang began to move. She didn't know where she was going. She was hoping to find a path that would lead her towards civilization. That way, she could at least find out where she was.
She got an idea and took out her Scroll. She could call the others. When she activated it, she frowned as she saw that there was no signal. That made the Scroll as about as useful as a brick. Frowning, she put away her device and kept moving.
If Yang knew where she was, she would know that bandits and thieves would hide in forests like this. They would wait for unwary travelers who would be foolish enough to pass through here.
Unfortunately, she received confirmation. The moment they saw the blonde bombshell, they immediately came out of hiding.
Yang saw the bandits come out of the bushes, wielding their swords. She frowned. Judging by their clothes, she was sure she's not in Vale anymore. Also, she could smell them from where they stood. Clearly they needed a bath. She didn't like the way they looked at her. She recognized it well. It was a gaze a predator had when they found a prey.
There were three of them and they were all leering at her. The one in front licked his lips as he leered lecherously at Yang. After all, she was quite beautiful with nice curves and a big bust. She had looks that were irresistible. Yang knew she had good looks and took advantage of them often. Of course, her looks could also lead to all kinds of trouble.
"Alright, girly. Hand over your bracelets," the lead bandit demanded.
"You want my bracelets?" Yang frowned. They were referring to her precious Ember Celica.
"That's right. If you do then we'll be gentle with you." Yang knew what he was implying.
"Gentle, huh?" Yang smirked. "OK, you can have my bracelets. Just come over." She grinned saucily at them and the bandits approached. They just could not resist coming closer.
It appeared that they did not recognize a honey trap when they saw one. As soon as the lead bandit reached towards her, Yang's Ember Celica mecha-shifted into their gauntlet form and she quickly let the bandit have a violent haymaker right in the face. He never saw it coming as his eyes bugged out comically before he was thrown backwards and crashed straight into the nearest tree, causing him to be knocked out.
The two remaining bandits gawked at what had happened then back at Yang. One of the two tried to swing his sword at Yang but she blocked it with her right gauntlet and then punched him several times in the stomach. The last punch caused her to fire her Dust rounds straight into him and he was propelled straight into another tree, causing it to break in half before it fell with him.
The last of the bandit trio turned to Yang and dropped his weapon. He immediately knelt and begged, "I'm sorry! I'm so sorry! Please forgive me! I was just following orders!"
Yang gripped him by his shoulder and lifted him up before she reached down with her other hand and grabbed his junk. He let out a yelp and whined as she started to twist his balls in her hand.
"How about you tell me what I need to know right now so I don't turn you into a woman?" Yang threatened while smiling sweetly. The bandit's face was red and he was sweating bullets as Yang continued to apply pressure. He let out a loud wail of agony and fright.
XXX
Hunt of the Armored War Gods Bios:
Kazuto Kenshin (AU counterpart of Kirito/Kazuto Kirigaya from Sword Art Online): Kazuto Kenshin is the biological father of Ushio Kenshin. He works as a game designer and he was responsible for the creation of games such as 'Pandora' and 'Era of the Silver Wings'. All games were unanimously praised for their unique gameplay from both reviewers and fans. When not doing work, he returns home and spends quality time with his beloved wife and children or hangs out with his friends at a bar. Kenshin and Kazuto have a great relationship. The two spent quality time by either going fishing or when Kazuto bring his games home, the two played together. Prior to his son's departure to his field trip to the museum, Kazuto was working on an MMO (Massive Multiplayer Online) that he believed would revolutionize the gaming world. His alias is Soos Garvey.
Asuna Kenshin (AU counterpart of Asuna Yūuki from Sword Art Online): Asuna Kenshin is the biological mother of Ushio Kenshin. She is co-owner alongside her partner and best friend, Yuuki of a popular cosplay shop called Mother's Rosario. The outfits at the shop were a mix of old and modern and customers came by hundreds or thousands when it was the holidays. Asuna created the shop after been inspired by the World Costume Festival she witnessed during her and Kazuto's honeymoon at the Philippines. Interestingly, the majority of the costumes' themes at the time were focused on the medieval times. Despite the heavy workload, Asuna would always make time to care for her three children. She is strict towards Ushio, mostly due to his frustrating personality but Asuna loves her son nonetheless and Kenshin understands that well to try improving himself.
Yui Kenshin (AU counterpart of Yui from Sword Art Online): Yui Kenshin is the sister of Ushio Kenshin and eldest child of the Kenshin family with Ushio being the youngest. Yui is a young woman who inherited her father's black hair and eyes and her mother's beauty. She is intelligent but can be childish at times. She displays a curious personality but can be reckless on occasions. The one trait that cannot be questioned however was her strong love and loyalty towards her family. Pros over the cons, many considered Yui a Yamato Nadeshiko, the ideal Japanese woman. She is currently studying abroad focusing particularly on subjects regarding technology but Yui would make time to visit her family. Yui and Kenshin have a close bond with Kenshin always defending his sister from any man or woman who would try to seduce her.
XXX
GKoh: Initially it was supposed to be just one chapter detailing all our girls from RWBY dealing with their newfound predicament but when more scenes are added and some deep thinking, it was better the chapter be split. We see how Ruby and Yang are doing. Now we will go to our other lovely heroines.
