Chapter 2 - Inner Demons

The ballroom was full of all the first years, most already changed into sleepwear and getting ready for bed. Near the staircase Ruby and Yang found their place to sleep and set out their sleeping bags. Lying down Ruby grabbed a red journal from her bag and began writing. She only got a few moments of peace before Yang lied down next to her saying, "it's like a big slumber party."

Ruby just ignored her and kept writing. Leaning over Yang asked, "So what are you writing?"

"A letter to my friends back at Signal, I promised to tell them all about Becan and how it's going."

"Aww."

Throwing a pillow at her Ruby said, "I didn't get to bring my friends with me, it's weird not knowing anyone here."

Leaning over Yang asked, "What about Jaune? He seems nice."

"Yeah, well I think Weiss counts as a negative friend so that's back to zero."

Looking around Yang said, "Well what about Ichigo, why don't you go talk to him again?"

A small blush began to kreep onto Ruby's cheeks and she said, "No, I don't really think he likes talking to people."

Wrapping an arm around her Yang grinned, "You serious, you're the only person I've seen him talk to. You have to count him as a friend, if not I will."

Shoving her off Ruby just rolled her eyes. Looking off she noticed a girl in a black nightgown sitting by a small candle. You could just make out her black hair as she was reading a book. Seeing this Yang asked, "You know her?"

"I saw her earlier before Ozpin's speech. She was there when I, ya know exploded."

Standing up Yang grabbed Ruby's hand and started dragging her towards the girl. When they were close enough Yang offered a wave and said, "Hello."

Looking up from her book the girl noticed the two and quickly returned to reading. "I believe you two meet earlier?"

Looking back up from her book again she looked at Ruby and asked, 'Are you the one that exploded earlier?"

Ruby just nodded and said, "Yeah that was me. You can call me crater, you can just call me Ruby."

Leaning over Yang whispered, "What are you doing?"

"I don't know, help me."

Turning back to the girl she had already returned to her book. Not knowing what else to say Yang asked, "So, what's your name?"

Not even looking up from her book she said, "I'm Blake."

With that Yang was turning to walk away when Ruby asked, "So what are you reading?"

"It's a book about a man with two souls, both fighting for control."

Ruby just smiled, "I love books, Yang used to read to me every night. Those stories are what made me want to become a Huntress."

Blake just chuckled, "I understand what you mean, but the world isn't a fairytale. There isn't always a happy ending."

"Well that's what Huntsman are for, to make the world a better place."

Wrapping Ruby into a hug Yang said, "Oh, I'm so proud of you."

"Stop, stop, stop."

Punching her Ruby fell back onto the ground and the two started wrestling with each other on the ground. Watching Blake just rolled her eyes, but smiled as the two kept going.

From across the room a girl all dressed in white walked up and yelled, "What is going on here? Don't you know some of us are trying to sleep!"

Breaking apart once everyone realized who they where all three of them said, "Not you again."

Making his way down the stairs Ichigo was still wearing his normal clothes with Zangetsu strapped to his back. Looking over the sea of new students he noticed the small group of girls yelling. Seeing Yang and Ruby he just shook his head, 'Guess their making friends huh.'

Making his way over Ichigo called out, "Hey, Ruby? Yang?"

The four girls all froze and looked over at Ichigo. Jumping in front of everyone the white haired girl introduced herself, "Hi, I"m Weiss Schnee. It's nice to meet you."

Offering a small nod Ichigo said, "You definitely look a lot like your sister, it's nice to meet you." Turning his attention back towards Ruby and Yang he asked, "You guys doing okay?"

Crossing her arms Yang said, "Yeah I'm fine." Putting an arm on Ruby's shoulder she pushed her forwards and said, "I think Ruby was wanting to talk with you though?"

Ruby just went ridged and stared up at him, from behind her Yang whispered, "What are you doing?"

Putting a hand on his shoulder Weiss turned Ichigo towards her and asked, "How do you know my sister, just who are you?"

"I guess I never did introduce myself, I'm Ichigo Kurosaki."

Stepping back Weiss said, "I'm sorry, I didn't know."

Looking at Ichigo Yang asked, "Why is princess acting so weird hearing your name?"

Standing up next to her Black said, "Because his name carries through all of Remnant, He's a prodigy. It was said that all four Kingdoms personally invited him to their school's. When his name popped onto the radar he was only a teen and he was completing missions like a trained huntsman. There hasn't been someone that talented in Remnants history for a long time."

Shaking his head Ichigo said, "Thanks for the praise, but I don't deserve it. I'll take my leave, It was nice to see you Ruby, Yang."

Turning to walk away Weiss grabbed his arm and asked, "Why'd you decline my father's invitation to join the Atlesian military?"

Looking back Ichigo said, "I'm a Huntsman, my job is to protect the people. I can't do that when I'm being hidden behind an army of soldiers and being plobiterazed as it's face. While I don't have any bad blood with your family I don't agree with their thinking."

With that Ichigo made his way back towards the staircase and grabbed his bag that he left there. Taking the sleeping bag out from it he laid it on the ground and through a pillow down. Taking a pair of black sleep pants he laid them down. Lastly grabbing out a white shirt Ichigo leaned his backpack against the wall.

From behind him he heard Yang ask, "Ichigo, what's up?"

Turning around her and Ruby walked up and he just laughed. Grabbing Zangetsu from his back he leaned it against the wall and turned to them. "I'm okay, just still not used to it I guess."

Taking a seat on her sleeping bag Ruby asked, "It's weird when people know you when you don't know them isn't it."

Tossing his cloak to the side Ichigo sighed, "Yeah ever since I came here and started training and going on missions all I hear is how I'm special, different than anyone else. No one asks what I want they just want to know if I'll do what they want. That's why I'm still here, Ozpin is one of the only people that see me for who I am and not for what I can do."

Lying down Yang asked, "So what Weiss was saying was try?"

Offering a nod he said, "Yeah, a year or two ago her father, older sister and a man named James Ironwood came here. I had never heard of them before, but it was such a big deal to everyone else in the city that they were even here. Me and Ozpin sat down with them and talked for hours. They talked about how I'd make an amazing soldier and one day become a leader of sorts. They just wanted to make me their greatest weapon and I don't want that."

"I'm sorry about that Ichigo, it must have been pretty hard."

"It's okay, I'm still here so it couldn't have been that bad right?"

Undoing the buckle on his belt he pulled it off and let it lie with his cloak. As he took his shirt off Yang and Ruby both just sat their watching silently. Grabbing his extra shirt from the ground they could see the giant scar that covered most of his side and they both looked away. After he put his shirt on Ichigo quickly changed his pants before sitting down.

Looking at them Ichigo asked, "What's up?"

Yang just waved it off saying, "Nothing we just didn't expect you to change right here is all."

Rolling his eyes he said, "It's not like I haven't changed in front of people before, I live in a school ya know it happens."

Leaning back against the wall Ichigo said, "Tomorrow they'll decide who will be teammates. While the challenge changes slightly each year the thing that doesn't is the relic. All the first years will have to find some kind of relic and then Ozpin uses that to determine teams."

Leaning up Yang asked, "How do you know that Ichigo?"

"I've lived here for five years Yang, and I've helped form teams for the last three."

"Oh."

"Yeah, I don't know if I'll be doing it this year or not. You know them wanting me to be an actual student and all."

Closing his eyes for a minute Ichigo asked, "So who are you wanting out your guy's team?"

After not hearing an answer Ichigo opened his eyes to find both of them asleep. Yang face first into her pillow while Ruby was cuddling onto one of hers. 'How could they fall asleep so fast?' Getting up Ichigo went over and pulled their blankets up onto them.

Looking over the Ballroom one last time Ichigo found most everyone else was asleep as well and finally sat back down. Looking to Zangetsu he thought, 'This is seeming to be an interesting year.'

"It does seem to be doesn't it. Just don't get too caught up in the past Ichigo, the future is now."

'I know Zangetsu, I was just surprised that even people this young know who I am. It makes the whole friend thing pretty hard.'

"Well you already have three, so you aren't doing too bad there Ichigo."

'I guess anyway I'm gonna get some sleep Zangetsu, I'll talk with you later.'

"That would be best, just remember you can't keep putting him off for much longer. He is getting rather restless since the last time you fought."

Waking up Ichigo looked around and saw the sea of students around him. About half have already gotten up and were just talking or still lying down. In front of him Yang and Ruby were still asleep, he first lying on her back spread out under her blanket while the later was holding onto a pillow and mumbling to herself.

Seeing them Ichigo shook his head before standing up and getting ready. Changing back into his normal clothes he did the buckle over his chest before putting Zangetsu on his back. Heading up the stairs he disappeared in mid step creating a faint gust as he went.

Reappearing in front of Ozpin's office he nocked and went in. As he closed the door behind him Ozpin said, "You're up rather early Ichigo."

Walking over Ichigo said, "Well it's a bit weird sleeping in a room full of people. Doubt I would have been able to if I didn't sleep by the stairs."

"Well today shouldn't be too tiring for you. However, I can tell there is something on your mind or else you wouldn't be up this early, let alone dressed."

Letting out a sigh Ichigo ran a hand through his hair. Looking towards the window he said, "I don't know why but Zangetsu told me that thing is getting rather restless and lately has been lashing out a bit."

Standing up Ozpin asked, "Ichigo have you seen it since Zangetsu has said any of this?"

Shaking his head Ichigo said, "No, the last time I saw it was two years ago when I fought him for the first time."

Putting a hand on his shoulder Ozpin said, "You need to confront it again, it seems it is testing you for a chance to gain control. I don't want to see that happen to you ever again Ichigo."

Backing away Ichigo said, "I can't fight him again Ozpin." Taking a breath tears began to build up in his eye and he said, "When I fought him the first time it was a living nightmare. I know he won't let me use the mask this time either and that's the only reason I won last time!"

Wiping his eye Ichigo said, "I don't know what to do Ozpin."

"Ichigo you need to try and confront him it's the only thing you can do. If he really is beginning to try and gain control once again I won't be able to keep it under wraps this time. Talk with Zangetsu, he's the one that will know exactly what to do. I wish I could do more Ichigo, but I can't."

Walking to the window Ichigo looked out over the school, closing his eye he leaned against the window and said, "Fighting him is the only thing I've been scared to do for years and I still have nightmares about it."

The crack of the door opening made Ichigo stop talking and turn around. Seeing Goodwitch walk in he leaned up against the window seal as she walked to the desk. Looking from Ichigo to Ozpin she asked, "Are you two alright?"

Waving it of Ozpin said, "We were just discussing some personal things nothing to worry about. Now then are the students up and getting ready?"

"Yes the last of the students were sent to the locker rooms and have began getting ready for their test. They have ten more minutes until we head to the cliff."

Nodding Ozpin said, "Good, I can expect you there with the students in fifteen minutes then Miss Goodwitch."

"Yes of course, I'll leave you two to your discussion."

As she left Ozpin got back up and walked towards the door. Turning back he saw Ichigo still by the window looking towards the ground. "Ichigo we should start making our way to the cliff, we don't want the students to beat us there." Offering a nod Ichigo followed Ozpin out the door as they headed out of the school.

Making their way up the giant cliff that overlooked the vast Emerald forest, they continued their discussion.

Looking back to Ichigo Ozpin asked, "Why have you never mentioned how that fight changed you Ichigo?"

"You know I don't want to bring you into anything I think I can do on my own. I thought it was just another thing that would be in my past, something I'd never have to face again."

Offering a nod the two were silent the rest of the way to the top of the cliff. When they did make it Ichigo went straight to the edge and looked over the large forest. Sitting at the edge he let his legs hang off and scanned the area looking for Grimm.

Ten minutes passed until Goodwitch along with the first years made it up to the cliff and she quickly got everyone ready. In a long line facing the cliffside the students were aligned on their own silver square pedestals.

Ichigo was put on the far left of the group next to Jaune. Down the line of students was Ruby, Yang, and then several new students Ichigo had never seen before. Looking down the line the only people Ichigo recognized was Blake and then Weiss at the very end.

Turning back to Ozpin he said, "Today is the day of your initiation."

Stepping forwards Goodwitch said, "You will travel through the forest to a temple where you will retrieve an artifact and bring it back here."

Looking over the students she said, "There have been rumors of teams going around lately and this will put that to an end. You will be given partners today. The first person you make eye contact with once you land will be your partner for the next four years."

Looking down at the tablet she was holding she took a step back and let Ozpin speak. "If there aren't any questions then let's begin. Good luck and make sure to kill anything you come across."

Touching a few things on the tablet the pedestal Weiss was standing on flung up sending her flying over the forest. A couple seconds later the next student went flying and it continued down the line. Watching Jaune asked, "So what exactly is the strategy here?"

Watching the students Ozpin said, "You will be falling."

"Well is there a landing strategy or something?"

"You will use your own landing strategy."

Winking at Ruby, Yang put on her sunglasses and was sent flying.

Ruby pulled her weapon from her back it began to change. Extending into a giant scythe Ruby was sent flying with a smile on her face.

Before Jaune could ask anything else he was sent flying and his screams could be heard until he was out of view.

A few seconds passed and Ichigo wasn't sent flying like the others and he just looked to Ozpin. Without having to ask Ozpin explained, "I want you to avoid intervening in a fight unless you think it's absolutely necessary."

Rolling his eyes Ichigo asked, "So I'm not suppose to help any of them unless I think their going to die is that it?"

Nodding Ozpin said, "This is a test of their strength and skills not yours Ichigo. We need an example of their abilities to determine their placement. That brings me to what I was going to ask you."

"And what's that?"

"I wish for you to observe as many of the students as you can. I'm hoping this would be a good chance for you to start thinking of the students that will take you class."

"Really? You want me to observe them to determine which ones I think have potential. I could easily do that by watching the footage."

Shrugging his shoulders Ozpin said, "I'm just asking you to, if you don't want to then by all means don't. Well you should probably get down there. Just make sure they all make it back alright?"

Offering a nod I Ichigo was sent flying towards the forest like the rest of the students before him.

On the cliff Goodwitch asked, "Why did you send him so early this year? The last few years you waited until the first group had made it to the temple."

Looking down at the tablet in his hand it was a video of Ichigo landing into the dense forest. Unlike the other students he didn't use any method to slow himself he simply took the full force of the impact. Landing on the ground he created a large crater around him. Quickly getting up from it Ichigo looked directly at the camera offering a smirk and disappeared.

Looking up from the tablet Ozpin said, "I just have a feeling something big is going to happen this year. Also Ichigo needs some alone time to think things over and there's no better time for him then when he's hunting."

"Is he having problems with it again?"

Looking over the forest Ozpin closed his eyes and said, "This morning he talked with me. He said that Zangetsu told him that it was getting rather restless."

Putting a hand on Ozpin's shoulder Goodwitch asked, "Why would you let him out there then. If it takes over it'll kill all of the students."

Brushing her hand off he said, "There is more to think about than that. It surprised me at first but Ichigo told me he's scared to fight it again. He mentioned he's had nightmares of their first fight since it happened."

Taking a step back Goodwitch said, "I'm sorry I didn't know."

"Neither did I." Looking down he said, "All I ever wanted was for him to become great, as good as he had always hoped. I thought what Atlas offered would do that."

"No one could have known what would have happened Ozpin."

Gripping his cane tight Ozpin yelled, "Yet I let my son go under that knife. I let them put that monster inside of him. It's because of me he has those nightmares, It's my fault he doesn't know what to do."

"Ozpin."

"You weren't there this morning. You didn't see the pain in his eyes. I did this to him and when he talked about it this morning I didn't know what to do. He asked for my help and there isn't anything I can do. I wanted to tell him the truth right there, but what would that do?"

"I've made so many mistakes in my lifetime but this exceeded all of them." Looking back down at the screen he watched as several Beowolves lied dead around Ichigo and began to disintegrate. Wiping a tear from his eye he whispered, "I'm sorry Ichigo, I'm so sorry."

Making his way through the dense forest Ichigo kept scanning the area around him. He stopped when he heard a girl ask, "Is there still room on your team Jaune?"

Turning to his left Ichigo made his way towards the voice and breaking into a small clearings he found them. Juane was hanging from a tree from his shirt by a red and golden spear. Looking down at the base of the tree there was a girl looking up at him.

She was wearing a brown and golden metal chest piece. To match these she wore a set of both golden greaves and gauntlets. Lastly she was wearing a short red skirt with a cloth tail that ran to her knees.

Her long red hair was put up into a ponytail and a golden crown like hair piece wrapped around her head and under her bangs. She just waited for Jaune to answer and then she helped him down.

Brushing himself off Jaune said, "Thanks Pyrrha." Offering a smile he said, "I guess we're partners now then. We should head for that temple and get a relic."

"Yes it seems so, let's venture on." With that the two began their way towards the temple. Watching them leave Ichigo smirked and disappeared.

As he reappeared he looked around to get his barrings to find nothing but forest. Rolling his eyes he thought, 'Maybe I should just go to the temple and wait to see who gets there first.'

Breaking out into a run Ichigo started running in the direction of the temple with the hope of getting there first.

Throughout the forest the students began to form their pairs and head to the temple. Ozpin watched as the last group was formed and switched cameras to one that overlooked the clearing in front of the temple. Moving the camera around he stopped when he saw Ichigo break out of the tree line. In an instant Ichigo cleared the distance of the field and walked up to the temple.

An old stone temple that was beginning to crumble from its age, seeming to only be held together from the vines that wrapped around it. Stepping onto the stone floor Ichigo looked around to find several pedestals all with a chess piece on them. To his left the white pieces and to his right the black pieces rested.

Walking towards the center pedestal he grabbed a hold of a black pawn piece and looked it over. Looking over the rest of the pieces there wasn't any more pawns. 'Ozpin must have expected I'd pick this piece.' Shaking his head he tucked the pawn into his pocket and made his way to the back of the temple and climbed a tree to overlook the area.

Ichigo watched as a flew different pairs had come and gone none of them really working well or caring about the other. Breaking into the clearing Ichigo saw Yang and Blake make their way to the temple. 'They could work together, but I was honestly thinking Yang and Ruby would pair up.'

Ichigo watched as the two made their way to the temple and began looking over the area. Seeing the pieces Blake questioned, "Chess pieces?"

As Blake looked them over Yang grabbed one of the white knights and asked, "How about a cute little Ponny?"

Smirking Blake said, "Yeah, if that's it we should get moving."

As they got ready to leave a loud feminine yell ripped through the area and Ichigo looked around to find its source. Below Yang said, "Some girls in trouble."

As it died down the sound of Ruby yelling from above caused all of them to look above to see her falling. A few seconds later Jaune flew right into her and the two of them went flying straight into a tree. Ruby landing on one of the thick branches while Juane landed above her.

Falling down into the same branch he said, "Hey Ruby."

Standing up Ruby jumped off the tree and ran over to Yang. Ichigo just laughed when they jumped up and hugged each other. It was quickly broken up when another yell from above came.

Looking up Ichigo saw Weiss falling from a giant Nevermore. The giant black bird flew past the clearing and made its way around in a circle above them. Standing up he got ready to catch her before she hit the ground. However before he could Jaune jumped from the tree he was in and caught her.

They fell for a few feet before Jaune lost it and they began twirling. Landing on his stomach first Weiss landed right on top of him knocking the wind out of him.

Watching what could have been a good rescue turn into that Ichigo leaned back against the tree and laughed.

Jumping down to the ground Ichigo heard the sound of an explosion. Looking past everyone he saw a Grimm resembling a giant black bear fall to the ground. On its back an orange haired girl jumped off. Wearing a pink skirt with an interesting top. She wore what seemed to be black corset with a white shirt underneath that had a heart shaped hole just below her neck.

As she jumped off its back she looked it over and in a sad voice said, "Aww it's broken."

From the tree line a man with long black hair fell onto his knees panting. "Please never do that again Nora."

When he looked up Nora was already gone. As he looked for her she walked up to the chess pieces and grabbed one. Grabbing a white Rook she started singing, "I'm queen of the castle, I'm queen of the castle."

From the tree line the man yelled, "NORA!"

Letting the Rook fall back into her hand she said, "Coming Ren." And quickly made her way over to him.

As everything began to calm down Pyrrha ran out of the forest into the clearing with her weapon in hand and a golden shield in the other. A moment later a giant Deathstalker came crashing out of the trees. As it broke down several trees with its giant pincers it chased after her.

Running towards the group she was knocked towards them as the Deathstalker hit her with one of its pincers. As she stood up Yang said, "Great now we can all die together."

Transforming her weapon into her scythe Ruby charged towards the Grimm saying, "Not if I can help it."

Rushing forwards she held her scythe behind her and pulled a trigger firing one of her 50 caliber bullets from the head. Using the kick from the shot it propelled her forwards. Swinging her scythe down it hit the bone covered pincer and she was easily knocked backwards.

Letting her scythe fold back into its normal state she put it on her back and started running back towards the group.

Above the giant Nevermore flew back towards them. Stopping in mid air it flapped its wings and sent dozens of razor headed feathers rocketing towards Ruby. As she ran they began to hit The ground behind her and implant themselves several inches into the ground.

Yelling for her Yang started running towards her. As several feathers crashed down in front of her path Yang slid to a stop. She watched as a feather caught Ruby's cape and pinned her down.

As several feathers circled her, Ruby turned around to see the Deathstalker running straight at her. Tugging at her cap she tried to free herself but to no avail.

As the Deathstalker reached her it brought back its golden stinger ready to kill her. Bringing it down everything slowed for Ruby, she watched as the giant stinger was just feet away and in a flash someone was before her. All she could hear was the clash of metal and when she opened her eyes she saw Ichigo's black cloak flapping in the wind.

Looking up she saw Ichigo holding off the stinger with his giant blade and in one swift motion he pushed it to the side and in a quick swing cut it straight off. As it landed next to them he brought his blade up and a faint blue glow gathered around it before he swung it down killing the giant Grimm.

As the faint glow began to fade from Zangetsu Ichigo put it back on his back and turned around. Pulling the giant feather from the ground he held a hand out to help Ruby up.

She just sat there staring at him until Yang wrapped her up in a hug yelling her name. Holding onto her sister Yang said, "Thank you so much Ichigo."

Kneeling down Ichigo reached out and put a hand on Ruby's chin, raising her head up he asked, "Are you alright Ruby?"

Offering a small nod she smiled and said, "Yeah I think I'm okay, thank you."

"It's no problem Ruby I couldn't let just let it happen."

Walking up Weiss said in a soft voice, "That was really cool Ichigo."

Turning to look at her she was starring off and Ichigo just said, "Thanks, Weiss." Looking to the rest of the group he said, "Now then you guys should probably grab your relics if you haven't already."

As everyone made their way over Jaune and Pyrrha grabbed the second white Rook while Ruby and Weiss grabbed the second white knight. With everyone having a piece Ichigo said, "Let's head back we got what we came here for."

Turning to walk back towards the cliff everyone just watched him. Jaune asked, "How did he do that. It was incredible."

His question went ignored and the group started walking after Ichigo. Ruby ran up to him and called out, "Wait up Ichigo."

Watching her run after him Yang smiled and stopped for a second. Stopping next to her Blake asked, "What's up?"

Yang just shook her head and said, "Nothing." Before they kept walking after them.

When they reached the edge of the clearing the cry of the Nevermore ripped through the sky. Ichigo quickly looked up and saw the giant bird flying around them. Watching it fly far out and make a quick turn towards them Ichigo yelled, "Everyone get into the trees."

Pushing Ruby behind him Ichigo asked, "Please stay here Ruby."

As everyone else found their way into the trees Ichigo walked out further into the clearing. Grabbing Zangetsu from his back the cloth began to unwind and disappear. Holding the blade to his side Ichigo watched as the giant bird began to dive towards him.

Shaking his head Ichigo thought, 'I'm not going all out but I need to do this much Goodwitch. Rather not drag this out any more than its needs to."

Swinging the giant blade behind him Ichigo held it there with one hand as the blue aura began to gather around it once again. It slowly turned into a torrent of blue energy coming off the blade and as the Nevermore was closing in Ichigo swung Zangetsu forwards with great force. As he did he said, "Getsuga Tenshou."

Following that phrase all the aura built up around the blade was sent out towards the Grimm in a giant crescent shaped arc. Cutting through the ground and once it made contact the Grimm cried out. As the arc cut through the Grimm it exploded engulfing it completely. It only lasted a few seconds before dissipating and the Grimm was gone.

Turning around Ichigo was meet with the eight students all asking, "What was that?"

Resting Zangetsu on his back Ichigo said, "Using Aura in an offensive sense, everyone can do it just to different levels." walking past them he headed towards the cliff. Everyone just watched him still wondering what just happened. Running after him Ruby caught up to him and walked next to him. Looking down Ichigo cracked a smile when he saw her. Looking off she said, "Thanks for saving me earlier."

"It's no problem Ruby."

As they kept walking Yang yelled, "Hold his hand Ruby!"

Knocking on Ozpin's door Ichigo walked in to find both Ozpin and Goodwitch already talking. Looking up Ozpin motioned for him to join them. "I'm glad you decided to come Ichigo, we've already gotten everything settled. Why don't you join us on our way to auditorium."

The three walked silently to the auditorium and split up once getting there. Ichigo walking into the stands where the rest of the students were sitting while Ozpin and Goodwitch walked onto the stage.

Making his way to center stage Ozpin tapped on the microphone gaining the attention of all the students. "With your initiation over it's time for your teams to be formed."

Giving the mic to Goodwitch she said, "These teams will be formed from two pairs based on what relics you brought back."

As they went through the teams they'd say all their names and one of them would be appointed as leader.

Sitting in the back Ichigo watched for about an hour until the last of the teams were being formed.

On stage Ozpin said, "The four students who brought back the white Rook pieces. Jaune Arc, Nora Valkyrie, Pyrrha Nikos and Lie Ren. You will be known as team JNPR lead by Jaune Arc."

The surprise throughout the auditorium was obvious, but Jaune was at a loss for words. 'Why would they pick me?' Pyrrha gave him a push on the shoulder and he fell over causing her to help him up saying, "I'm sorry Jaune." While she helped him Nora and Ren just laughed.

As team JNPR made their way off stage Ozpin took the mic once again. "Now for the team that brought back the white knight pieces."

"Ruby Rose, Weiss Schnee, Blake Belladonna, and lastly Yang Xiao Long. From now on you'll be know as team RWBY, lead by Ruby Rose."

Hearing this Ichigo looked up and watched as Yang wrapped her arms around her sister in a death hug. Looking to Ozpin he just offered a small nod to Ichigo before looking away. Leaning back against the wall Ichigo thought, 'He actually agreed with me this year.'

Breaking him out of thought Ozpin got back on the mic and said, "Now for the last team. For the first time in history I'd like to welcome our first one person team. Bringing back the black pawn piece Ichigo Kurosaki."

Shaking his head Ichigo made his way up to the stage. As he walked through the aisles several people reached out for either a high five or to grab him. The entire time he was heading to the stage people were calling out a variety of things, but the cries of some girls were the loudest.

Ichigo just ignored it all and quietly made his way up the stairs to the stage. Walking over to Ozpin he shook Ichigo's hand and said, "They seem rather excited."

Rolling his eyes Ichigo said, "Don't you have to finish your speech?"

Turning back to the mic Ozpin said. "This is a first in Becan history and something that won't be forgotten. Ichigo Kurosaki will make up the first ever one person team known as team I."

Stepping back from the mic the crowd cheered. Once they settled down Ozpin continued, "With the last team formed there is one last announcement to be made. Keeping in with this trend of firsts Ichigo is also going to be the first student teacher here at Becan. Now then I'll hand it off to him for a few words."

Stepping back next to Goodwitch he motioned for Ichigo. Shaking his head Ichigo walked to the mic. "Well I don't really know what to say wasn't told I'd be speaking so this probably won't be very good."

Looking over the crowd Ichigo stopped when he saw Ruby watching him. Once she noticed him she offered a smile. "Okay then this is going to be new and more of a test run this year. I'm going to holding a class on survival and living outside of the Kingdoms. Since this is my first time ever doing something like this it's a small class and I've been watching over everyone to determine who will be a part of this class."

Taking a pause Ichigo looked over the students. "The members of both team RWBY and team JNPR will be the eight students I wish to take my class."

Looking down over the two teams Ichigo said, "You may decline the invitation if you'd like there are no requirement for you to take this class. If you don't wish to please speak up now so I can pick other students."

Waiting a minute without a response Ichigo said, "Very well I will contact both of your team leaders and give them the details. That's all I have to say so I'll give it back to Professor Ozpin."

Switching places Ozpin finished up his speech and dismissed the students. As the large group of students left both team RWBY and JNPR stayed behind.

"It seems they have some questions for you." Ozpin said before him and Goodwitch too their leave.

Taking a seat at the edge of the stage Ichigo asked, "So what's on your mind?"

Standing up Ruby joined him sitting on the edge of the stage and asked, "Why are you having to do so much? You have to be a student, now a teacher and you've been a huntsman for years."

Ichigo just shrugged his shoulders, "It's hard to say. Ozpin just asked me to and that's enough for me."

"So Ozpin is pretty important to you huh?"

"Yeah, he's been there through a lot and helped me whenever I've needed it."

Looking back to the rest of them Ichigo said, "I have some things I need to do so I'll see ya all tomorrow at class."

"How do you know we have the same classes?" Ren asked.

Standing up Ichigo helped Ruby up and said, "There isn't anything that goes on in this school that me and Ozpin don't know about. Also I helped make the schedules so yeah."

Offering a wave Ichigo made his way out of the auditorium and headed toward his room. Once he was in the hallway he disappeared covering the distance to his room in an instant.

Over the years Ichigo had personalized his room and changed it several times over the years. For now it is mostly a red and white theme. In the center of the room was a full size bed with a red blanket covering it. On either side of the bed where a night stand with a lamp on the right one and a journal with a black cover on the other.

Two doors lined the left side of the room. One leading to a small walk in closet while the other lead to a bathroom.

Lastly on the right there was a small bookshelf and a chair tucked into the corner, along the wall was a giant sword rack that he used to rest Zangetsu on.

Placing Zangetsu onto the rack Ichigo walked to the closet and grabbed a change of clothes. Changing into a white shirt and a pair of red workout shorts he grabbed a towel from the bathroom. Laying it over his neck he left and headed down the hall.

At the end of the hall was a double door that lead to a workout room. A variety of equipment from a bench press to ellipticals were in the room. Sitting on a bike Ichigo laid his towel over one of the handlebars and began petaling.

After about an hour of riding the door opened and Ozpin walked in. Turning to look Ichigo caught the water bottle Ozpin tossed to him. Saying, "Thanks." Ichigo downed the water and wiped away the sweat on his forehead with the towel.

"You know this place will start having more people in it don't you."

"Yeah I do, I'll just have to start coming in later at night, maybe after ten or eleven."

Sighing Ozpin turned around and headed to the door, "Don't stay here too late classes start in the morning."

"I know Ozpin. I already did my cardio I just have to finish up with some weights."

"Don't over due it Ichigo, I'll see you in the morning."

As he left Ichigo quietly said, "Goodnight Dad."

Finally finishing around 11 Ichigo almost instantly passed out after laying down. As he slept Zangetsu began to let off a faint blue glow lighting up his room.

Opening his eyes Ichigo was lying down on one of the giant skyscrapers that scatter his inner world. Looking around Ichigo called out for Zangetsu only to here no answer.

Standing up he looked over the area and there was nothing but the endless sea of skyscrapers. As he looked over the edge the black void was moving almost like it was alive. Wrapping itself around the skyscrapers it began to work its way up them. As Ichigo watched something pushed him forwards and he fell down into the void.

Once he touched that emptiness his vision went blank and his muscles went ridged. Finally hitting something solid Ichigo's body stopped.

As his vision cleared Ichigo looked around to find himself inside a black box. As he watched the walls began to move. Standing up Ichigo watched the far wall as two red eyes pierced through the darkness. As the two lights began to get brighter a loud monstrous roar ripped through Ichigo's eardrums.

Reaching back Ichigo grabbed ahold of Zangetsu and his body loosened up slightly. From the blackness two white horns emerged followed by a white skull. It resembled a humans except for the wolf like fangs it had for teeth. As the beast's eyes locked onto Ichigo it opened its mouth and a small trail of steam came from it.

Pulling Zangetsu from his back Ichigo tried to keep his body from shaking as the beast's eyes stared into his.

As it completely walked out of the darkness it watched Ichigo intently. It's long black fur that covered most of its body was hard to tell apart from the surroundings. If it wasn't for the white bone that was its head, horns and legs it would be impossible to see.

As it walked on all four its wolf like claws dug into the ground with each step. Putting its head down it snarled and more steam began to come from its mouth. Holding Zangetsu out in front of him Ichigo stared into the beast's eyes. Letting out one more roar the beast ran straight at him.

Looking down into the darkness Zangetsu said, "I'm sorry Ichigo but this is the only way I could get you to fight it. I know this will be hard, but you can win once again, you must win."

Well there's another chapter down, with several more to go. Sorry for the wait, but I had to finish up another story and been kinda busy. I should be able to get updates out every two weeks I think. I'm going to say expect updates every other Thursday for now.

I know that this chapter is probably a bit confusing because of how much new stuff I brought in, but everything is going to be explained in due time. Just know I have a lot of plans for the future and while this story will follow canon for the most part I'm going to add in a lot of new stuff as well.

Anyway hope you enjoyed and let me know what you think.

Lastly this is just a warning for the next chapter. It's going to have a lot more mature themes and be a bit dark for a good portion of it. A.K.A Ichigo's nightmares are going to be shown some light.