A/N: Before anything, thank you everyone. I never would have expected as great a reaction to this tale as I have received. Over 50 followers, nearly the same amount of favorites. 3000 views and almost 750 viewers. 24 reviews. Thank you.
I have been busy with work and family so I have been unable to write any new chapters in over two weeks (Good thing I have many of these written in advance for just such a thing, no?). Thanks to the reaction you have all given me, I will give you the double posting that you all expect. So I will have another chapter on Sunday, then again on Thursday.
That said, One more chapter till S1E1! Then the fun and multiple little reveals will start happening everywhere! And flashbacks. And other things.
As I stated in Ch 0. This has always been a story that would revolve around Mato. So it will almost always be from her point of view. Nonetheless, I still need to build up the other characters though, give them backstories, etc. So starting from the next chapter, there will be more scenes that don't have Mato in them. To help build the people around her.
And this is for those who will bring this up. Yes, Mato's character is changing, this is for several reasons, encompassing but not limited to: Settling into her new life, in a new world, with a different culture. Going from fighting 20 hours of the day, to spending most of the day exploring, and reading to catch up to her new world. More companions than the ever silent and emotionally stagnant BRS. On that note, having Neo as a companion for almost a month now would change ANYONE's character. Seriously, it is worse than having Nora as a companion, since Nora only breaks people's legs, or thinks/talks about it. Neo actually goes out and hunts people when the mood hits her, and Mato joins her to pass the time, and prevent Neo from murdering her prey...
There was an issue when I posted the chapter that made it lose all the bold and italics. I have corrected it. So if this line is bold and italicized, please enjoy.
Anyway, enjoy!
City of Vale - 'The Mad Hatter's' restaurant
February 28th, 2014 - Early Afternoon
"Wow, you were right. This has to be the best cookies I have ever had… And it isn't even a bakery! Why? Could they be a secret organization that is trying to steal business from bakeries?"
"My thoughts have gone down that path as well a couple of times Ruby... Minus the whole secret organization bit, but it is best to drop it. I have been coming here almost every day for this entire month with Neo, and everyday they have a different menu. They were doing lobster, sweet tea, and baklava yesterday. Today apparently they are doing burgers, coffee, and cookies. It never follows any known patterns. But it is always good."
"Makes you wonder if the chef is in fact mad, and decides what to make that day depending on… his... hat?"
Mato gave Ruby a look that told her it was as likely as anything else. The place was relatively small, capable of hosting no more than thirty, maybe a couple more people. And it never seemed to have more than a couple of groups at any given time. Yet the prices were always fair, and sometimes had ridiculously extravagant dishes and decorations. The only thing that was certain, was that nothing was ever as it seems with this place. That and the owner probably had a lot of money.
'Also, I swear I have seen everyone in here. From politicians to hobos come in here… Isn't that a known hitman for that new gang in town? What were they called again? ...Bah, they can remind me after I bring him into the station later. They always have something of a color in the name anyway.'
"Well, setting that aside, what are we going to do today? With Qrow taking Neo to see Beacon's headmaster one last time to get all the papers and the like ready. And with I myself having just finished the latest set of history books. I merely need to go to Tukson's and buy the next set. Afterwards I technically have too much time till the evening celebration with Neo at Junior's club. You?"
"I actually had plans with Winter. Since school starts in a month, she wanted to get some more practice in, to make sure she got in."
Mato merely raised her eyebrow. "That girl survived out in the wilds with us for a month. No showers, no change of clothes unless they were torn or soaked in Grimm ichor. Feasting off the land. For Oum's sake, at one point we were set upon by a Goliath, and she reacted properly. There is nothing in Beacon's initiation that could match that Ruby."
"I know that. But if she doesn't make it, she won't have anywhere to escape to. So she really really wants to be sure."
Mato grimaced at that. Winter's situation was not a pretty one, so she could understand the poor girl's nerves were on end. Nonetheless… "I understand Ruby, but too much might hurt her as much as help. It is still one month away, so I am not telling you to stop, but make sure you get her to take breaks and just enjoy life." Mato grinned. "I think I have earned the right to say that and for people to listen to me."
Ruby nodded. "I know... I know, but making her understand that is hard. I don't know what to do sometimes. It is like she has this enormous pressure on her."
"Ruby, Beacon's headmaster has all but granted a fifte- I mean sixteen year old girl early admission, a granny in the body of a seventeen year old, who I might add didn't know Remnant existed till about two months ago, admission, and is at this moment finishing up the paperwork to give admission to a known sociopathic mute, who goes around as a contract mercenary, with a history of having been hired by some of the apparently worst scum around. All of this was because the people in question have the skills needed to kill Grimm, survive, and the mindset to put others before themselves… Except Neo… I am working on her, but in her case, it is mostly because of her skill, and the fact that I have her leashed at the moment. Possibly also because it is better to have her on our side than let one of our enemies hire her. ANYWAY! Winter has already done just that. Get that across, and you might get a foothold to work your magic. Otherwise, just keep on being you. You will win her heart soon enough."
"Maaaatoooo! I am NOT going after her heart!"
"That blush on your face says otherwis- OKAY! I give! Don't pull out Crescent Rose here! I like this restaurant too much! … Sheesh, you would think I could throw some jokes around." Ruby's glare was answer enough. "Okay, fine. I know, and I mean it, that you aren't after her. Nonetheless, the rest of my answer still stands."
"...I will try my best."
"That is all anyone would ask of you. But you don't have to try your best Ruby, just be you. It will be enough." Mato gave Ruby one of her full smiles. They weren't as big as most people's, but that was merely to avoid having her fangs so openly exposed. Yes, BRS hadn't thought to remove or even out her canines when she was adjusting the body to this world… Just one of the many little 'gifts' Mato had discovered that really didn't make sense, unless one recalled that her savior wasn't a walking paragon of common sense, or vocal communication... 'It is funny how similar Neo is to us if you describe us with loose terms like that.' "Now go. I still have a couple more burgers to order to fully enjoy today's menu. Then I will get some to go for Qrow and Neo. So go enjoy your training, and I will see you tomorrow."
"...Tomorrow?"
"I am taking Neo and Qrow to a club. I don't know about Qrow, but so far, from experience, Neo is going to keep me up all night with her antics. So yes, I will see you tomorrow more than likely."
Ruby merely shook her head as she rose from the chair and headed towards the exit.
'So what do I want to order next. The triple mushroom swiss burger with grilled cheese sandwiches for buns. Or the Bacon Melt Tower. A burger which consists of only bacon, beef, and provolone cheese…'
As she called the waiter over, she thanked the fact that her new body would never grow fat, or develop health issues, regardless of the absurd amounts of calories or food she consumed.
City of Vale - Vale Airport - Beacon Transit Pads
February 28th, 2014 - Evening
Mato stood there waiting for the Bullhead that was carrying Qrow and Neo from Beacon. She had received a message from Neo, telling her that they were on the way back. But the mischievous girl had refrained from giving Mato the answer to the big question. Not that Mato was truly worried, Qrow was the biggest obstacle from her perspective, having actually met Ozpin once already at his request. So she was quite certain with the outcome.
That didn't mean that Neo's actions didn't rub her the wrong way, and that Mato would have been fidgeting a bit, if she hadn't had a body that would never require such movements, and a mind that could repress any thoughts on going through with it.
'Please stand back from landing pad C, Please stand back from landing pad C. The flight from Beacon will be landing shortly.'
'Finally.' It was surprising how much Mato had changed in the last two months on Remnant. She still only needed four hours of sleep to be fully rested, and awoke immediately like before. But unlike her days long gone, it was with a sense of peace and excitement. Everyday since she had come here had been exciting. From a Grimm army of beowulfs. Trekking through the wilderness teeming with all kinds of monsters. Exploring as much of the city as she could. Meeting Neo, and the subsequent events the little girl had pulled her into.
Mato chuckled at the thoughts of her multi-colored partner. Neo was insane. Literally. She had three base personalities reflected in her three eye colors, that worked in tandem with each other in her mind, creating six total personalities if one wanted to psychoanalyze it. Add to that her muteness. And that she had three semblances thanks to said split personalities. Even Qrow had been absolutely astounded and stumped with that one. He found it harder to believe, than the fact that Mato was actually a 97 year old nigh immortal from another world.
'Please stand clear of landing pad C. Please stand clear of landing pad C. The passengers will be departing shortly.'
With that Mato got up and started heading towards the Bullhead that had arrived amidst her thoughts. Ready to go party with Neo and Qrow.
City of Vale - Junior's Club
February 28th, 2014 - Evening
"..."
"Yeah, those are my thoughts exactly Neo."
"I still don't see how you all can understand her so well. Although I can see Ozpin understanding her, that is mostly because I don't believe there is anything that Ozpin CAN'T do. How is it that you have such complete understanding of what Neo says… without her saying anything?"
"..."
"I AM that awesome Neo, but no. The reason I can understand her so well Qrow, is because of practice. A LOT of practice. With someone who not only stayed silent, but also showed no emotion. After getting to the level of reading her. Neo is like an open book. And it helps that unlike my old partner, she is an incredible chatterbox."
"..."
"Your right, that is off topic."
"..."
"..."
"...Okay fine. I guess I will point out the elephant in the room. Why is Junior's place in tatters? And most of his men lying unconscious in random piles?"
"No idea ladies, but maybe she can fill us in." Qrow pointed to a girl with long straight black hair, a white dress, and way too much make-up. Oh, and sharp bladed footwear. Who was slowly dragging a similar girl in red over to a slowly growing pile of sleeping bodies.
After a quick argument with the abrasive girl, and a full nelson from Mato when the girl assaulted them - Seriously, why does every new girl Mato meet tend to attack her? - Qrow was able to get an explanation out of her. Half-way through it, Qrow released an exasperated sigh and left the club, saying he was going to chase down the assaulter in question. A long haired blond with a fiery aura, and shotgun gauntlets…
'Shotgun gauntlets. I know my weapons are not exactly normal, but they have nothing on Ruby's and Qrow's sniper-scythes. And now a girl running around with shotguns attached to gauntlets… It is like fighting Strength all over again…"
By this point. Neo, Mato and Melanie, the girl with the white dress, had moved all the injured and unconscious over to a side of the club so they could be treated. None had anything bad though. A couple of strains and bad bruises at best. Actually, Melanie had more severe injuries than most others, yet had been the only one conscious when the trio had arrived.
After checking on everyone, and retrieving the unconscious Junior from outside. The three girls sat at the bar. A nice bottle of Jack Daniels in front of them, and a trio of unbroken shot glasses.
"Thank you for helping me move and check everyone. And I am sorry for having attacked you."
"..."
"Neo's right, don't worry about it. We came to celebrate, and that is what we are doing, with a new friend and a good bottle of alcohol." Mato reached out to the bottle and removed the cap before pouring each girl a glass.
Melanie just shook her head, accepting the glass and downing it in one go. Neo and Mato followed shortly after before Mato refilled the glasses.
"..."
"Damnit Neo, they already have to pay for repairs here. There is no way we are getting away from paying for the drinks by blaming it on the blonde."
"..."
"Yeah, if Qrow catches her, then I guess they wouldn't have to pay for repairs. But that still doesn't grant us the opportunity to drink free."
"..."
"I am not even going to deign that with a response."
"..." This time Neo put on a full pout, both eyes a soft pink.
A chuckle to her right pulled Mato's and Neo's gaze over to Melanie. "You two a comedy act?" At the questioning tilt of both the other girls heads, Melanie just sighed and continued. "I haven't heard her, Neo was it? I haven't heard her say a single word. You have been talking to yourself the entire time."
"..." Neo's pout became poutier… if that was a thing, or possible.
"Oh don't get like that Neo. Not everyone can understand you. And yes, I have been the only one to speak so far. But Neo has been my partner in this communication the entire time. Be a mute long enough, and you get very good at 'talking' through other means. And Neo is nearly a master of nonverbal communication. A bit more, and even people who aren't professionals like myself, will be able to understand her."
Melanie just sighed again and downed her glass, lifting it to Mato in request of another. Which Mato complied with happily. "Well whatever. And don't worry about the drink, it is on the house. Now tell me, what were you two celebrating before coming here?"
Neo's pout immediately shifted to a huge smile as she bounced up and down.
"Hahahaha, okay okay Neo, I got it. She just got accepted at Beacon, so she is going to be joining their ranks this year if she passes initiation. It had been a bit touch and go for a bit due to her circumstances."
"What, her muteness? Because that would cause problems I imagine."
"Nonono. Although it would cause problems in most cases, she is far too skilled to be stopped because of that."
"Then what? What could be worse than that?"
"..." Neo's smile, something crooked that should not belong on the face of such a cute and petite girl, along with one of her eyes shifting to white, was more than enough of an answer, but Mato still deigned to translate for the suddenly shivering girl.
"The fact that she is a mentally unbalanced sociopath with a criminal record long enough to make Roman Torchwick envious." Even Mato grinned at that, her fang showing a bit at how wide the grin truly was.
"..."
"Oh come on, I know he is a pushover Neo, but you have to understand that he is the most visible and known criminal around. Do you think she would have gotten the comparison if I said something like, Lt. Bane? Adam Taurus? Or maybe that Crimson woman who was with Roman last time? Plus, even you can't compare to that crazy fire witch."
"..."
"Don't give me that. Her fighting style is incredibly difficult for your own. Even when you got nearby, you could barely pressure her for a few seconds before she turned the tables around and had you distanced and on the defensive again. If I hadn't interfered, you would have lost that match and you know it."
"..."
"Yeah yeah. just finish your drink and we will go hunt for some White Fang bases and hope she is in one of them. Then we can have definite proof."
"...Ummm." Both girls turned towards their new forgotten friend. "I thought you guys were celebrating... " Both girls nodded. "So why are you guys going out to look for the White Fang?"
"Well, one of their bosses is this powerful dust mage that Neo fought a couple weeks ago in one of our nightly adventures. And she wants to prove to me that she could have beaten her, so we are going to see if we get lucky tonight and find her. Plus, although I have nothing against Faunus, terrorizing a terrorist organization is one of the sweetest and most ironic pastimes of Neo's. And I agree that they are incredibly fun to troll."
Melanie just stared at the duo with an unreadable expression. Before sighing, "...Do you have room for one more? After a night like this, I could use something to expel my frustrations."
"Aren't you injured?"
"My aura has healed most of it already. Mine is quite good at healing, it is why I was the first one up as well."
Mato turned to Neo and raised an eyebrow, of which Neo returned with a small grin attached.
Mato and Neo proceeded to down their shots. "Okay then, tonight we go terrorist trolling! Let us go out to hunt my Birds of Prey!" Pumping her first in the air, she stood up, only to stop at Neo's snicker.
"..."
"Screw you Neo."
City of Vale - Boar's Inn
March 1st, 2014 - Early Morning
"Okay, so why is it that you need Melanie to stay with you, AND try to get her into Beacon?"
"Well, as I said, we decided to go out hunting for the fire witch that Neo and I faced last time in an attempt to settle a bet. And Melanie needed to release some steam. Well, we didn't find her, but we did find a criminal organization's base that we assaulted. Buuuuut. It turns out that this particular base was captained by someone who recognized Melanie… And he got away. So Junior, Melanie's boss, who also happens to be a minor mob boss and information gatherer, has kinda kicked her out to protect everyone else in his gang from her actions. He even made it so that everyone believes that the blonde from last night and Melanie apparently worked TOGETHER to smash the club."
"..."
"Oh yeah, I have been meaning to ask that, but who is that blonde sleeping in Ruby's bed?"
Qrow looked over at the slob who had stolen Ruby's bed for the night. "That is Yang Xiao Long. Ruby's older sister… And the one who smashed up Junior's club last night."
"...wow, coincidences are strong in this one. Well, at least it won't be hard to sell Junior's story."
"..."
"Screw you Neo."
A/N: Yup, I barely touched Yellow, but why would I? It is already animated. So for those of you who expected me to write it in detail, or alter it, I am sorry. Hopefully altering the EFFECTS of said event is enough to curb your anger. After Ruby met Yang outside Junior's club, they left to a restaurant, which Qrow tracked them down too, and then Yang slept over at their inn room.
So there we have it. For all those smarties out there, I needed to introduce three more characters if I was going to have Mato have her own team, I had no plans to have a five man team, or get rid of Jaune to make room for Mato.
So new additions to Beacon it was, and we now have them. Kuroi Mato, Neopolitan, Melanie Malachite, and Winter. Now, this does NOT mean they are in a team together. I have twelve other possible teammates for Kuroi. (Team RWBY, JNPR, CRDL for those who are most assuredly going to ask.) And I stated in Ch 0, this will NOT be cannon. So those teams may or may not be as they are in said cannon.
Worry not though. The next two chapters will have our heroine show up at Beacon, and go through the initiation for as well. So you will have your teams in two more chapters!
Also, I will stop jumping ahead in the story as of the next chapter. So expect one day to be spanned by multiple chapters now instead.
Side note, I have gotten permission from CushionySiren3, to use characters from his stories 'The (Un)Forgettable Team TAPE' and 'Frozen Heart' in my own tale. They will NOT be used frequently, no EVER have a point of view in this story. They have their own story after all. I will merely be using them to substitute the faceless shadows in the background with ACTUAL people. That includes First, Second, Third and Fourth year teams. As well as some of the professors. So now all of you have even more reason to jump over to his profile and read them. Particularly TAPE… it needs more love. It deserves it too.
Oh, and please do leave Reviews or send me some PMs as per usual. Actually, for how awesome it is to have as many views and follows as it has had, (Which again are WAY beyond what I expected.) I have less than half of that as reviews. The reviews and PMs are what make my day the most, reading what you all think.