Hello Guys, I am back with a new chapter.
Before that let me answer some questions I got from the review section and also from my reviews.
PS: I have corrected Zach to Zack. I can't believe I had failed to notice that I actually got the spelling of his name wrong. Sorry about that.
1. I have received a question from the review and from two Pm's on how Zack's semblance works
This was supposed to be explained in a future chapter during an important battle. But I guess I can tell you how he can copy someone's semblance. Otherwise, you guys would think it as just plain and boring.
Now, I based his semblance based on his Limit Break 'The Digital Mind Wave' (DSW) from Crisis Core. Briefly the DSW basically works like this: There are 3 reels at the side that can be spun. Like that of a slot machine. According to the images obtained, he can achieve a status change. If the three reels show the image of the same character and Zack has enough points, he can use the Limit Break of that character. So here, he can use the limit breaks of characters and summons he met or defeated before. So, in brief it allows him to draw power from his past encounters.
Secondly, I have taken inspiration from Chrollo's ability from HxH. So, Zach's ability will be heavily influenced by how HxH works.
The name of his semblance is "Counterfeit".
Now here are the important steps, or rules as you may call it for him to successfully copy and store away someone's semblance:
Step 1: He has to see the semblance in action. Since he has the ability to sense aura, one of the semblance he copied earlier (That story would be told in detail in a future update), he can determine if someone has activated their semblance or not. Now, most importantly he should see what the semblance actually does. For e.g.: Take Pyrrha's semblance. It is different from someone like Ruby's semblance where you can easily see the effects of the semblance. Zack can understand if she has activated her semblance or not due the ability of his to sense aura, but unless he knows what her semblance does, he cannot copy it.
Step 2: When someone activates their semblance, he has to be within a distance of 2 metre radius around them for 3 seconds with "Counterfeit" activated i.e. during this contact period, the opponent's semblance has to remain activated. If they switch off their semblance before 3 seconds has elapsed, then he has to repeat step 2 again. Basically, what this step does is store a temporary data on the semblance on his body.
Step 3: On successful completion of step 2, the semblance will be recorded in his body. But he has to activate it within 10 minutes. If he doesn't activate it within the time frame, he has to go back to step 2. Because the data stored in his body will be lost. There is also another hurdle: After step 2, during the 10 min time frame, if he comes into contact with someone else's semblance i.e. any semblance other than the one he is trying to copy, then his copied data will be lost. He has to repeat step 2 again. But this won't work if the semblance that hits him is one he had already stored away before.
EG: Imagine, he completed upto step 2 for copying Ruby's semblance. During the 10 min time frame, he is attacked by Yang with her semblance. Then his data on Ruby's semblance stored in his body will be lost. So he has to repeat step 2. But if he already has Yang's semblance copied earlier, then it won't affect his imitation process.
Note that only being hit with a semblance cancels it. Other attacks do not affect it.
Step 4: He has to maintain the newly acquired semblance for 5 seconds for it to be permanently stored in his body. This also has to be completed within the 10 min time frame as specified in step has to only do this only once. After that he can use the semblance like his own. But if he fails to maintain it for the specified time before the 10 min time frame in step 3 has elapsed, he has to revert back to step 2.
After steps 1 to 4 have been successfully completed, he can use that semblance like his own whenever he wants.
So you see, it maybe OP but there are strict conditions for its activation. The reason I chose such an ability is because it gives me a lot of freedom to explore it. Unlike the three others, who use KI, chakra and magic, Zack uses aura itself. We all know how those formers work and there is little scope of integrating my imagination into it. But in the case of Zack, I can let lose my creativity on his ability.
You guys can clearly see the heavy HxH influence. I have always wanted to create a sort of HxH like ability and this gave me a perfect chance.
These rules are the sole reason, he has only copied 6 other semblances. I actually wanted to provide this info during a future battle. But I guess, its better you all know this beforehand.
Then there are a few major weaknesses for his semblance. Also, there is a catch to using two semblances at once. That unfortunately, I cannot explain to you guys now. Sorry, but you will have to wait for a future update to know what it is. Main reason I cannot spill the beans here is that it forms the core part of an important future battle. If I spill it here, then the beauty of that chapter will be lost.
So I hope that answers your inquiries about the Soldier's semblance.
2. Pairings
Pairings have not been decided. If you have any suggestions, feel free to PM me or leave in the review sections. Personally, I am not that much into romance and shipping and to be completely honest I had no plans of introducing pairings. But if you guys have any suggestions, then I will look into it.
DISCLAIMER: I DO NOT OWN DRAGON BALL Z, FAIRY TAIL, NARUTO, FINAL FANTASY 7 SERIES AND RWBY. THEY ALL BELONG TO THEIR RSPECTIVE OWNERS. I ONLY OWN THIS FANFICTIONAND MY OC'S.
x-x
If he could describe this airship ride to Beacon in one word, the Dragon King would call it HELL, The worst kind of hell. It took all he had to put up a normal outward appearance. Ever since he came to this world, his motion sickness had got worse. Although he had trained himself to prevent it from showing, it left him highly vulnerable. On top of that he was surrounded by humans and faunus which disgusted him. How he hated this? And what he hated the most right now was that annoying "Monkey" beside him. God only knew he had enough rage built up inside him to rip off his head.
"Zack. Don't go ruin the plan. We are supposed to stand someplace else." Itachi Uchiha was clearly annoyed at the antics of the former Soldier. This guy had made it a passion of his to get on the nerve of the Dragon Slayer who himself was holding back from exploding in rage. The only thing preventing from doing anything reckless back was his motion sickness. Itachi felt a shiver run down his spine when he thought of someone else trying to mock Acno right now.
"Sorry, caps couldn't help it. His face is just so funny" Zack tried his best to hold back the laughs that escaped him. Even then small muffled laughs somehow broke through.
"Zack, do you want to make me angry" The former soldier first class suddenly ceased his laughing when he felt the angry glare of the Uchiha beside him. He saw that his eyes now had turned red and that was never ever a good sign.
Zack gave a goofy smile as he slightly sweat dropped
"I am sorry again caps. Let's go now."
The ex-soldier sighed in relief when the eyes of the Uchiha returned back to its regular colour.
The saiyan was too concentrated on preventing Acno from going berserk and simply had his trademark son grin on his face. But behind that smile showed a tensed Gohan who felt that their little squabble was attracting a bit of attraction. Especially from the fairer sex.
Itachi adjusted the sleeves of his dress as he motioned Zack that it's time to leave.
"Gohan and Acno stick together. We will meet once we reach the school grounds." Itachi affirmed the plan once again as he and Zack walked towards the opposite side of their present location.
The ex-soldier picked up his pace to catch up with the Uchiha who had started without him.
"Look caps, there is another puke boy over here. Think he is also a Dragon Slayer." Zack remarked as the duo passed over a scrawny blonde who looked like he was just about to puke. Unlike the Dragon King, he did not do much to hide it.
"I have to say that joke was funny" Itachi chuckled to himself.
"Maybe he is the Blonde Dragon Slayer."
"Ok. Now you are pushing it." Itachi's laughter had all but died down as he showed he ceased to be amused.
"Sorry about that. Let's go someplace else before he decides to 'let it all out', you know." The former soldier gave a goofy smile as he hurriedly followed the Uchiha who did not even bother to listen to him finish.
X-X
Itachi actually admired and respected Zack and his optimism. Though he never told him to his face, he considered the former soldier first class as a real hero. Someone who anyone could look up to. The Uchiha liked having him around. He was the cheerful personality among them, always there to light up a dull moment, never holding a grudge against anyone. Zack had told him many times before that if it was for his comrades he would gladly lay down his life. What the Leaf shinobi respected the most about the Soldier was his ability to look ahead and never be tied down by his past. Someone who was never bound by vengeance. Zack somewhat reminded him a bit of a certain Blonde shinobi back in his world. Even though, the former soldier was hard to deal with at times, Itachi considered him like a little brother though they looked the same age. He staunchly believed he was someone he could always depend upon. He had this aura around him that attracted people towards him. Even Acnologia had started to change a bit due to his influence. But somewhere deep down he knew the Former Soldier hid the pain he felt.
Gohan reminded him of his best friend in the hidden leaf, Shisui Uchiha. That was the main reason, he trusted Gohan above everyone else. Gohan was like the embodiment of what he viewed as a true hero. Strong, down to earth, kind, merciful and selfless. If someone like him existed in his world, he would have been his idol. The Uchiha was well aware of the immense sadness the saiyan harboured in his heart. Though he never showed it, the Uchiha could see it well hidden behind his smiles. He could understand that pain. Unlike him, Gohan died with some regrets. Contrary to Itachi's view about him, the saiyan himself considered a failure. Someone who failed to carry on the legacy his father left behind. If Itachi did go out of his ways to cheer someone up, it would be for the saiyan hybrid.
But among them, Itachi still had quandary about Acnologia. Though the Uchiha never doubted his loyalty toward them, he opposed his ideals and beliefs. He knew that the three of them had his loyalty and affection only because he acknowledged them and considered them as his equals. Itachi could never understand the Dragon Slayer's view towards humans. The dragon slayer thought himself to be a God among insects. Human life was below insignificant to him. The sharingan user very well knew how vengeance born out of loss and hatred can change someone. In his past life, he had met several who stood for a good cause but changed when their hearts where taken over by hatred. Somewhere, the dragon slayer reminded him of his little brother, giving up everything for the sake of his hatred. So, he himself took upon that task to change the Black Dragon. He did not want someone he cared about go back to his old ways.
Itachi and Gohan had tried their best, but for someone who lived for centuries destroying anything that stood in his way was not going to alter his beliefs within few years. But he could notice some changes in the dragon slayer compared to how he was the first time they met. Itachi very well understood that Acnologia only agreed to accompany them for his selfish motives. But now he had changed. The Uchiha would trust him with his life but not with the life of someone outside their group. But he respected how the Black Dragon had grown to turn a blind eye to many things and had learned to be more patient.
Itachi never had any regrets when he left the world of the living. He had done all he could to protect his beloved brother. Everything he had done was for the sake of his precious home and his little brother. He forsaked his life and happiness for the people he cared about.
In this second life, he had met people who were like him. People who gave up their lives to protect what was important to them. He knew what they were. They were four different kinds of heroes. A true hero who was Zack, A real hero who believed he was a failure, Gohan, An unsung hero who would remain to be known as a villain, himself and A fallen hero who was consumed by hatred, Acnologia. Whoever they were, he Itachi Uchiha was proud to call them his comrades.
When he had first arrived in Remnant, he did not know what to make of it. He was devoid of purpose. Somewhere in him he feared that fate would play a cruel symphony on him again. But now, he knew what he had to do. He would live his life with his comrades. He would live the life, the cruelty of fate had denied him. Maybe experience the many joys this world had to offer.
As an obligation to whoever gave him a second chance, he would fight against the evil of this world. Together they would become heroes of Remnant. He made a promise to himself that he would not let this world suffer like his own world had suffered. And he intended to fulfil that promise.
X-X
"What are you smiling about Caps" Zack's words cut in breaking Itachi's train of thoughts.
Itachi was a bit startled at this.
"No nothing, just trying to think of a plan." He blurted out.
"Always the wise one, are we?" Zack made a comical face as he said this, which received a slight chuckle from the Uchiha.
"Anyhow, there are some girls over there giving me the looks. I was hoping you let me go and make friends with them." Zack's voice sounded like he was pleading but Itachi knew the Former Soldier was asking that only to get on his nerve a bit. It wasn't a big surprise and he was expecting something like this. Mainly because Acno was on the other end and Zack had no one to toy around with.
Itachi looked to where Zack was pointing to.
"You can't Zack. They are interested in me and not you. Anyone can guess that." Itachi had decided to play along.
Zack's face turned a bit red.
"Itachi, my friend. That was seriously funny. Ha Ha." He clearly felt a bit burnt from that counter. Itachi could easily understand that his friend did not expect him to retort that way. It was evident in him using his name. He always called him caps ever since he was made the leader back in Alsius. He called him by his name only when he lost his cool or when he was a bit perplexed.
"Between you and me, it is obvious as daylight who they would choose." Itachi decided to humour his friend. He wasn't the best in cracking jokes but unlike his previous life, this one afforded him the liberty to do so. Why waste your life tied down by the past?
Before Zack could respond with anything, the holoscreen previously showed a news report which Itachi had missed due to him being lost in thoughts, disappeared. A holographic form of a light blonde haired middle aged woman took its place. Itachi and Zack shifted their attentions towards the screen.
"Hello and welcome to Beacon" she greeted. "My name is Glynda Goodwitch. You are among a privileged few who have received the honour of being selected to attend this prestigious academy. Our world is expe…"
"If all the teachers looked like this, I won't mind attending this school. This could be fun." Zack mused breaking Itachi's attention from the screen.
Itachi grinned at that statement before opening his mouth to utter a reply. But decided against it when he realized the decency level of what he was going to say. NO, he wasn't going to stoop that low.
By this time the holograph had faded away. The aerial view of the city of Vale now took its place.
The Uchiha could very well guess what the next lines were. He was a prodigy of the hidden leaf and the best in his academy back home. He had enough school experience for guesswork. Most probably, she would have told about honing skills, knowledge and all those things. In a way he believed these things were necessary but should not take up prime importance. Nothing could teach you better than experience. The faster kids were exposed to the real world, the better hunters they would become.
X-X
Gohan couldn't hear anything Glynda said beyond the first two lines. Acno beside him did not like the tone of her voice and was making some threatening remarks about that. But his motion sickness made the remarks rather comical and non-understandable. The dragon king's arms were wrapped around his belly and his head would constantly shift positions. All he could decipher was lowly human, bossy, order. The saiyan had no intention to come up with a logical conclusion and find out what he was trying to say. He knew it wasn't anything good.
"What's wrong with your friend here?" Gohan turned to his side to see a girl about their age with short orange air. She wore a black and white shirt with a heart shaped opening in front.
From her face, the saiyan hybrid theorized that she was a hyper one. Her face showed a bit of concern when she inquired about the dragon slayer.
Gohan gave her a greeting smile.
"He just cannot handle transportation. That's all." The saiyan answered while also glancing at his friend who was starting to get annoyed.
The teenager's face took an expression of being nauseated.
"Does that mean he's gonna puke here. Gross. Get away from me." The girl made a gesture with her hands to the dragon king to stay away.
Gohan had to hold Acno firmly by his elbow to prevent him from lunging at the girl.
"Miss, I really hope you don't annoy him. Things get really bad when he is annoyed." The saiyan tried to plead his cause. Gohan's facial expression literally meant Please run away before things go haywire. He was profusely sweating as the tick marks on the Slayer's face started getting bigger with each passing moment. He did not expect Acnologia to have enough patience or mercy to let a mockery to his face pass.
"Nora, don't go around annoying people." Gohan shifted his attention towards the noise to see a teenager with long black hair that had some strands coloured pink. He wore a long sleeve green coloured shirt and white pants. From what he could understand, this guy was basically like the babysitter of the hyper active girl. To Gohan, he was the saviour who could prevent a major disaster.
"Sorry about that. She can be a bit hard to deal with at times." The black haired teenager apologized bowing slightly as he said so.
"It's okay. No harm done." Gohan scratched the back of his head while he mused to himself "That was close." He could hear Acno gritting his teeth loud and clear.
"I'm sorry Ren."
The girl so called Nora then turned to face the saiyan with a smile on her face and extended her hand to him. 'Hi. I am Nora Valkyrie and this is my friend Ren" She gestured to the teenager beside her.
"What are your names?'
The saiyan hybrid smiled in reply and shook her hand. "I am Son Gohan and this here is my friend Acnologia."
"Did you say Acnologia?" The teenager named Ren somewhat retorted in excitement.
"Yes I did. Is there any problem?" Gohan could somewhat connect what was going to happen. He seriously hoped, his hypothesis was wrong. The last thing he needed was people trying to start up a conversation with his blue haired friend.
"You said you are Gohan right? That means you guys are from Alsius"
"Yes, we are." The saiyan could feel where this was going.
"It's a pleasure to meet you. I have heard about you guys." Ren extended out his hand to Gohan and the saiyan accepted the hand shake.
"I have heard how you took down a harbinger on your own. That was pretty amazing." He added as he now extended his hand to the Dragon King.
Gohan inwardly face palmed. The awkwardness on his face growing bigger as Acnologia was gave a menacing stare to the teen and then to Gohan.
"You have to excuse him. But my friend here is not much of a social person" Gohan intervened before anything could transpire. His facial expression basically begged them to stay away.
"Oh I see." Ren took back his hand. "Anyway, it was great to see you." He wasn't an idiot. He could somewhat guess what the saiyan was implying
"So you guys have come to join Beacon?" The hyper active Nora interjected.
"Well, that's a long story. I'll tell you sometime later. Bye. It was great meeting you." Gohan blurted out hurriedly before he literally dragged an Acnologia who had his fists clenched, away from the scene.
"That blue haired guy was weird." Nora turned to Ren. She was a bit taken back by the reply. How was joining Beacon going to be a long story? A simple yes or no was enough, wasn't it? On second thought that question was foolish. Why else would they be here if not to join Beacon?
"I too think so." "But from what I heard he is crazy strong and has no qualms about breaking the bones of whoever he fights." Ren understood the girl beside him was oblivious to the intense hatred Acnologia was giving off. That's why Gohan was too much interested in breaking the conversation and moving away. Just thinking about it sent shivers down his spine.
"OO scary." The girl put up an act of being scared. "I believe that was the longest sentence you said today Ren"
The raven haired teen simply sighed to himself admitting defeat. "No use in explaining things to her."
X-X
When the airship had finally landed, it meant sweet relief to the Dragon King. He had half a mind to kiss the ground and scream "Sweet Land.". But neither his pride nor the intended plan let him do so. They were supposed to meet at some distance away from all the hustle to have a small briefing from Itachi.
"Gohan, I understand the need of the plan. But why the hell do we have to wear this ridiculous dress?" The saiyan hybrid was the only person the Dragon King addressed with his first name. It showed he acknowledged Gohan's strength to be far greater than his own. Itachi was simply called Uchiha, unless in rare circumstances when he used his first name. While he never even bothered to call Zack by his name. Monkey and idiot took that place and in certain circumstances he added pea brain to that.
"It might seem ridiculous to you. But honestly, these are normal dresses, for teenagers our age." Gohan had a wry expression on him. Seriously, he could never understand Acno's weird dressing sense.
All four of them wore hooded jackets. Nothing strange about that. Itachi's was blue, Zack's was purple, his own was orange and Acnologia had on a black one.
It took some time to force the Dragon King into wearing these so called ridiculous dress. If he had gone around wearing his regular attire, it was sure to be the centre of attention of everyone present. The last thing they needed was someone to mock him while on ground. He didn't want to fathom what all mess that would cause.
Acnologia just scoffed at this comment. "Whatever let's just go"
X-X
Contrary to Itachi's plans Zack had walked got out of the airship ahead of him leaving the Uchiha behind in the crowd. The former soldier wanted to take in all of what lay in front of him. Being here reminded him of his training days at Shinra. He actually did not mind attending school again if it was not for the studying part.
This took him back to the time he was a kid. After hearing the exploits of Sephiroth in the war, he decided to join Shinra to become a soldier. All he ever wanted was to become a hero, that's all he dreamt about.
At the age of 13, he left Gongaga without telling his parents, and joined the Shinra's military. He could recollect the joy he felt on the day Angeal had recommended him to be First Class. But, everything did not go as he had expected. In the end he has to kill his mentor, Angeal. His close friend, Sephiroth. He was made into an experiment for four years by the very organization, he was so loyal to.
He had to kill Genesis after trying his hardest to save him, watch the Director as well as the Angeal clone both die right in front of him. After all this, he finds a letter saying Aerith has sent him 89 letters and waited for his return for four year.
Any other person would have gone mad from hatred, but not him. He only believed in walking forward. Life was just too short to waste on hatred and revenge. And he wasn't the type to bear grudges.
At that time, only one thing occupied his mind. Go back to his Aerith and start a new life with her and his best friend by his side.
Acnologia had once told him he had been foolish to carry Cloud with him. But, he had his honour and he would never abandon a friend. Even when he was hunted by the very organization he dedicated his life to, he pressed on towards Midgar with his best friend who was in a catatonic state.
When they were surrounded by Shinra troops, he perceived that he had little chance of survival. Yet he fought, he fought to protect his best friend while somewhere in him a faint ray of hope lingered that he would make it alive to Aerith.
In his dying breath, he passed on the sword Angeal had handed on over to him to Cloud. With the last gasps of air, he asked Cloud to carry on his legacy.
He did not have any regrets of what he had done. In his heart, he believed he died a hero.
When he received a second chance at life in this world of Remnant, all he wanted was to carry on the remainder of his dreams. Become a Hero of this world. He felt lucky to have met his comrades. Itachi and Gohan, he admired and respected them more than anything. They reminded him of the heroes he used to read about in legends.
Acnologia was different. But Zack cared about him. The primary reason he so annoyed the dragon slayer was to break through his rough exterior and make him see the world in a different light. He could never hate anybody. He saw only the positive side to things. Even against Shinra, somewhere he was thankful or the chance they had given him to fulfil his dreams.
Right here, starting this day, he would be taking a major stride to accomplish his dreams. He wasn't going to be tied by the past. He was going to fight a never ending battle against his chief rival, The Future.
"Wow, that's a cool sword" A voice came behind him severing the former Soldier's thoughts.
He turned to see a fair skinned young girl with silver eyes and black, neck-length, choppy hair that gradated to dark red at the tips. She wore a long sleeved thick black blouse with a high collar and red trim on the sleeves, a black waist cincher with red lacing up the front, and a black skirt with red trim.
"Cute" Zack mused to himself.
"She's a beauty, isn't she? I crafted her myself." Zack hoisted his blade from his back and swinged it around. His blade was an exact replica of the Buster sword Angeal bestowed upon him. The only difference was that the handle now was of a deep purple colour.
"Really." The girl couldn't hide her excitement.
Without any delay, she pulled out her weapon which was a ridiculously large scythe for a short girl.
"This is my baby, crescent rose. I also crafted it myself. Awesome right. Other than a scythe, it's also a customizable sniper rifle. And..." she wouldn't just stop. Zack pretended like he was listening and even put up a face showing interest.
"She's cute and energetic." He thought. "And obviously obsessed with weapons."
"So, what does your sword do?" She finally came to a halt.
Zack understood the question. Almost every weapon in Remnant was of the hybrid type. The girl's was not any different.
"It's just a sword. And a very big one at that." He elaborated..
"Just a sword! You mean it's not a grenade launcher or gun or anything else?"
"Nope. Just a big and heavy sword."
Ruby Rose was a bit dismayed. She was expecting his sword to have some sort of cool feature to it. But nothing.
"So, what's your sword named?" A tinge of disappointment echoed in her voice.
"I call her Honour."
Ruby Rose folded her arms.
"Honour. That's a strange name and sort of lame." She flouted.
Zack was a bit irked at the tone of her remark.
"It actually means a lot to me. Do not mock it. That name is in remembrance of my beloved mentor." Zack's voice took on a more serious note and he was a bit loud.
"Oh! I see." The girl felt she had somehow offended him calling the name strange. Her cheerful smile started to fade. Zack noticed this. He did not mean to incur such a reaction on her and began to regret the harshness in his voice.
The ex-soldier rested his blade on his shoulders and thought of something that would rectify the current turn of events.
"So, do you want to hold my sword?' Zack asked, bringing back the cheerfulness and the former level of excitement back to her face.
Ruby Rose was overjoyed. She really loved weapons and this guy was actually letting her hold his. "Really, you'll let me hold it?"
"Sure, I don't see any harm in doing so"
Zack lowered Honour to the ground letting the tip rest on it while holding out the handle to her.
But no matter how much effort she put in, she was only able to barely lift it off the ground
"This is one heavy sword. How are you able to wield something this heavy?"
"Well I am pretty strong. Anyway, stronger than you" He then lifted the sword with his right hand and put in back on its sheath.
Ruby Rose puffed her cheeks and placed her hands on her hips to show her displeasure at that remark. Zack realized what he did and scratched the back of his head.
"So, your weapon. It's pretty big for someone your size. Who taught you to wield it?' The former soldier continued not wanting things to end on a sour note. He sort of wished he hadn't told that last sentence earlier making fun of her strength.
"It was my uncle Qrow who taught me how to use it. Before that, I was completely hopeless."
"Qrow!" That name shifted Zack's attention away from her and into his own thoughts.
"Now it makes sense. He too had a similar weapon. So that means, he is her uncle. Great, I meet a cute girl and she turns out to be the niece of a guy we pissed off long ago."
"Hello, are you listening? Mr em..?"
"Yes I am listening. It's just that I recollected hearing the name Qrow somewhere."
"You must have. He is a cool hunter and..."
"Crap!" Zack's mental senses tingled "Schnee alert"
"What the hell is a Schnee doing here?"
"Don't want her to see me. The younger one's got a bigger mouth and ego than the older one. Come on Zack, pull out."
The ex-soldier took a look around him and noticed Itachi standing near the entrance
"Sorry, scythe girl. I have to go now." Zack bid his adieu and turned towards the direction of Itachi who was patiently waiting for him.
"Wait. You didn't tell me your name." Ruby shouted in the back ground. But Zack was too immersed in the task of escape that he failed to hear her. All Ruby Rose saw was him vanishing away in the blink of an eye.
Ruby Rose felt a tinge of disappointment at his sudden departure. She had actually met a nice person to talk to. She let out a sigh and turned around, accidently colliding with the younger Shnee who had walked up behind her.
Zack gave a sly grin to Itachi who refused to look at him for a while.
After a brief moment of awkward silence Itachi shot a glance at his friend. "SO Zack. Done with your important conversation." Itachi's voice was laced with anger and sarcasm. He purposefully let Zack seep in the atmosphere as he was aware of the memories that it might invoke in him. But what he did not agree upon, was him wasting time talking to some random girl.
"Sorry about that caps. She started it and…"
"Did she remind you of Aerith, Zack?"
"Caps, how did you know?" Zack's eyes sparkled and his tone emitted an aura of surprise.
"It's actually really easy. Every cute girl you meet always reminds you of Aerith. So don't pretend to act surprised with my deduction."
Zack gave a sheepish grin as he scratched his head. "Caps, that was harsh." He realized how sarcastic Itachi was being.
Itachi smiled slightly at this. "Whatever, let's get going. Don't want to keep the others waiting."
X-X
"We have some pretty interesting students this year professor Ozpin." Glynda remarked while she went through a few transcripts she held in her hands.
"What is your opinion about them, professor?"
"Well, I have to agree Glynda. There are certainly a few interesting hopefuls this year." The headmaster of Beacon, Ozpin was in clear agreement with his associate. He held his coffee mug in his right hand while he gazed out through the window monitoring the new recruits who were now at the academy grounds.
"We have Pyrrha Nikos and also a certain Blake Belladonna. They seem to be among the best present. That is, if you leave out those four."
Ozpin turned towards his associate.
"I didn't expect them to show up at Beacon. James will be really crossed when he finds out his prodigies have decided to join Beacon." Ozpin added while he sipped on his coffee. The expression on his face, showed that they piqued his interest.
"We better not tell Ironwood anything until after the initiation."
Glynda continued after a brief pause. "But to show up now after disappearing for a year?"
Ozpin put down his coffee mug.
"Do you have any qualms about them attending Beacon, Glynda?" Ozpin questioned his second in command.
"I do not mind the other three but Mr. Acnologia has quite a bad reputation at Alsius. They had turned a blind eye to him only because he was highly gifted in combat. Other than that he barely passed in his academics. No to mention he has a history of attacking a professor. On top of that there is that incident with Qrow."
"I have heard about that. But he took out a Harbinger after that, didn't he?" "I personally think he knocked out the teacher to prevent him from harm."
Ozpin paused briefly before he sighed "Then Qrow is a different matter. I have to say I am surprised myself that one of them managed to severely injure Qrow. But from eye witness reports, Qrow started it. You know how he is when he is drunk?"
"I guess you could say so." Glynda's face showed she was far from satisfied with the explanation.
Ozpin deduced the doubts that clouded her mind. "Glynda dear, don't be so surprised. How often is it you see huntsmen in training take out an ss class grimm that even veteran huntsmen fail to. They clearly overlooked the incident. Who would let go of a prodigy from their hands?"
"I just hope that he doesn't end up causing much trouble. It seems he only listens to his teammates. If he snaps, they won't be able to restrain him. He is far stronger than the rest. Maybe Zack can keep up with him among the others." Glynda sighed.
Ozpin took another sip from his mug. "Don't assume things like that Glynda. I have watched some of their previous fights. It is obvious both Mr. Uchiha and Mr. Gohan are hiding their true strength. I have never seen a match in which they were even remotely expended. We have to remember that Itachi Uchiha was the one who easily beat Qrow, a veteran huntsman with vast experience."
"You don't say professor Ozpin? So according to you, Itachi Uchiha and Son Gohan may be stronger than Acnologia?" Glynda was taken aback. The tone of Ozpin's tone implied he was completely sure of his deduction.
"But is it okay to deduce that just from some previous matches?"
"It's not just the matches. Acnologia's records clearly shows he is highly arrogant and a big narcissist. If he respects them, it must mean he acknowledges their strength. They might have been childhood friends but you don't respect someone's strength unless they are stronger or equal in power to you."
"That seems plausible." Glynda Goodwitch did not notice to think about it like that. Now, it made sense to her.
"Let's see how things shape up." Ozpin added before Glynda could reply. The headmaster's countenance clearly showing how much interested he was in them.
"There are many things you are hiding aren't you team Izanagi?" Ozpin contemplated to himself while took another sip from his cup.
X-X
"Hey, Zack, Itachi. Over here." The familiar voice of the saiyan hybrid directed the duo's attention to where they were standing.
The initial plan was to discuss further on the plan while meeting at a secluded location. But it turns out that all student hopefuls had to assemble at the auditorium for further instructions and they did not want to be late. Itachi knew Gohan might have already figured it out and reached there. So he and Zack had decided to go straight to the auditorium.
"You took your time reaching here Uchiha, monkey brain" The dragon king voiced his displeasure while looking at Itachi when he said Uchiha and Zack when he said Monkey.
"Sorry about that" Itachi spoke "Zack here took his time conversing with some girl he met"
"As expected. He would do something foolish." Acnologia scoffed. Why wasn't he allowed to break some bones when Zack could flirt with human girls?
"Hey, tribal man. Talking with girls is not considered foolish. It's actually the normal thing to do as far as normal men are considered. Unlike you, who is an overgrown gecko in a teenager's body" The former soldier was a bit annoyed.
Acnologia did not take lightly to this comment. Itachi and Gohan had to hold them both back before they went at each other.
Something quickly came to Zack's mind. He calmed himself down and broke off Itachi's arms which were wrapped around his chest.
"Yes, by the way, before I forget, I have to tell you guys this. I was waiting till all of us were together."
The rest three of them leaned in to listen to what he had to say. Itachi was more curious out of the three. What was it that he couldn't tell him earlier?
"That girl I spoke to earlier was Qrow's niece. And I also saw the younger Schnee girl here." Zack had a serious demeanour as he spoke.
"And…" Gohan was the first one to break a short period of silence that followed.
"And what?" the former soldier first class was confused.
"Oh! I see. That's bad." Itachi was the first one to understand what Zack said earlier was his so called important information. The other two looked at Itachi, then at each other's faces and then back again to Itachi. Now, they realised what it was.
"So, how is that bad news?" Acnologia was not amused at all. He had expected something bigger. Now he felt a blow on his pride for acting so curious to some stupid information that was of no concern to him. What did it matter? Qrow was drunk and he pissed them off some time ago. They retaliated as they saw fit. Did this guy actually mean that, this so called niece would try to avenge him? He would blast her away, if she even tried.
Zack figured out that the three of them had no clue on how that was bad news. Itachi had just put up a pretence of being concerned. Gohan tried his best to put up an act but he was horrible when it came to lying. Acnologia was straight forward as usual.
"So you guys seriously don't understand how that is bad news?" Zack was far from beguiled.
Gohan and Itachi had on a deadpanned expression while Acno looked like someone was trying to pick a fight with him.
"You guys are hopeless. Listen, the Schnee knows what my semblance is. So that means my secret's out. Then, Qrow's niece was cute. Since we pissed him off, I can't have a normal conversation with her."
The Uchiha and the saiyan hybrid sweat dropped while Acno had a cheeky grin.
"So what you meant by that is you can no longer go around stealing, and not flirt with some girl. I have to admit only a pea brained idiot like you would call it bad news." The dragon king expressed his disdain much to the annoyance of the former soldier.
Gohan had half a mind to say "Burnt" but held back on seeing the ex-soldier grit his teeth in aggravation.
"Don't call it stealing you asshole. It's my ability. Sorry, I don't have any hocus pocus with me unlike you." Zack was clearly irritated. Mainly because the others actually did not care about his so called ordeal. He wasn't an idiot, who couldn't realize Itachi's and Gohan's pretence. But what pissed him off most was Acnologia saying it straight to his face. In all honesty, Zack was initially overjoyed when he got valuable information as he described it. That joy was now blown back in his face.
"Did you call my Dragon Slayer magic, hocus pocus you monkey thrash." You don't insult magic. The dragon King does not take lightly to it whether its friend or foes.
This sudden outburst started attracting the attention of many students who were close by. Since it was the first day, the entire auditorium was pretty noisy, so not everyone paid heed to the noise. But those nearby who did was pretty much expecting a fight to break out soon. And it would have broken out too, if it was not for the other two who held them back.
"I'll … keep this brief" Luckily for the saiyan and the Uchiha, a man with white hair and who wore a green scarf had walked upto the microphone in the hall.
The attention of everyone present turned to the man. Everyone except Zack and Acno, both of them still giving threatening glances to each other.
"That is Ozpin" Itachi nudged Gohan gaining his notice. The saiyan hybrid, shook his head to indicate he understood, but did not say anything as he did not want to miss out what the man was about to say.
The headmaster of Beacon paused briefly to ensure that his words sunk in.
"You have travelled here today in search of knowledge. To hone your craft and acquire new skills and when you have finished, you plan to dedicate your life for the protection of the people. Ozpin went one his voice unchanging in pitch and without intonation. This made it harder to guess what he really felt.
"But all I see…"
"Who is this bossy lowlife? He is annoying as hell." Acnologia's voice which rose from the crowd made everyone present shift their attention to the source of it. The Dragon King actually did not say it aloud. But in the auditorium where there was complete silence except for the voice of Ozpin which broke through it, his voice laced with arrogance was clearly audible to all who were at the venue.
Now, the Dragon Slayer found himself, the centre of attention. The various stares he was getting actually made him feel embarrassed. He felt like his pride had been blown to bits. Gohan and Itachi put out awkward words of apology slightly bowing their heads time to time to everyone while Zack was laughing up a riot.
Fortunately, for the students, before the Dragon King was about to lose it, Ozpin overlooked the incident and continued "Let me finish what I left off. All I see among you ..."
Itachi Uchiha was now sure that Ozpin had done a thorough background check on them. He could easily guess that the Headmaster was expecting something like this from Acno.
Itachi shot a glance towards Gohan and confirmed that the saiyan hybrid too guessed likewise.
"It is upto you to make the first step." Ozpin concluded. Gohan noticed that the headmaster gave them a stare as he finished. A stare that indicated he was sort of interested in them.
"You notice that Itachi" Gohan turned towards the Uchiha who nodded in the affirmative.
"You will gather in the ballroom tonight." Glynda took over after Ozpin had left. "Your initiation will be tomorrow. Be ready. You are dismissed for now."
The crowd of students started leaving the auditorium and made their way to the ballroom. After a few while only Itachi, Gohan, Acnologia, Zack and a few students remained.
Itachi scanned the area around him.
"What the hell was that for Acno?" He blared with his eyes glowing red.
The Black Dragon looked away with an expression indicating 'He was asking for it'.
"Well what's done is done. Let's just be happy that nothing bad happened." Gohan tried to calm down his friend. The Uchiha's anger failed to subside from his effort.
"That human scum was acting all high and mighty. You should be thankful I did not end him there." Acnologia shot back.
This was like adding fuel to the fire. Itachi rarely got angry and even when he did, he calmed down almost immediately. But now, he was clearly pissed off. Zack and Gohan held him by his arms when he threatened to take a kunai out of his pouch. Acnologia kept looking away from the scene.
"This guy is beyond help." Itachi simply sighed finally giving up. "Whatever let's just go to the ballroom." The captain of Izanagi felt it was just hopeless to continue on with the matter.
The Uchiha motioned at Zack and Gohan to follow him and began to walk away not giving any form of acknowledgement to Acnologia.
Zack put his arm over the Dragon King's shoulder pretending to drag him along as he began to follow Itachi. Gohan face palmed before he too moved towards the ballroom.
"Caps is seriously pissed." The Ex-soldier jibed in the ear of the dragon king.
Acnologia's face showed he somewhat regretted what he had done. He did not mind pissing off Ozpin but it bothered him that Itachi was disappointed.
X-X
"Now two of you don't start any trouble got it."
The ex-soldier and the dragon king nodded in unison. It was unlike Acnologia, but the small amount of regret he now possessed made him loosen his pride for a moment.
"On second thought, Gohan you stay here with Acno. Zack come with me." Itachi's tone had an authoritarian demeanour. That coupled with his anger resurfacing made even the saiyan hybrid flinch at his instructions.
Zack wasn't in agreement with the plan. "Caps, I want to stay here. I am too tired." He pleaded but it fell on deaf ears.
Itachi looked him in the eye with his sharingan glaring. Any opposition Zack might have had melted away after this. Even Acnologia felt a bit intimidated.
"Now, let's go." He motioned to Zack. "And Gohan, please make sure this Dragon does not do anything stupid." Itachi slightly grit his teeth when he said Dragon.
"Leave it to me Itachi." Gohan retorted. He looked back at Acnologia who looked away when he met his gaze. Gohan slightly sweat dropped. The situation was slightly awkward.
Zack slightly elbowed Itachi in the ribs to gain his attention.
"Caps you were right" gaining his attention, he motioned him towards a few girls on the other side. Itachi facepalmed at this. He did not expect this. The Uchiha procrastinated that he was going to make him issue an apology.
"Whatever let's go. Acno sorry about that." Itachi blurted out before leaving with Zack.
"I haven't fallen so low as to need your pity, Uchiha." Acnologia replied in his usual arrogant tone. "By the way, get us something to eat when you return."
Itachi waved back in return while Zack gave him a thumbs up.
"Well, to be honest nothing went according to plan except the initiation being tomorrow." Gohan chuckled earning a small grin from the dragon king.
"Yo guys. Nice to meet you. Man, you really killed the mood with that" a blonde teen came up to the duo.
Gohan back while Acno laid back on his sleeping bag not bothering to engage in a conversation.
"Nice to meet you too err"
"Arc, Jaune Arc." He answered excitedly.
Nice to meet you Jaune Arc, I am Gohan, Son Gohan." The saiyan hybrid extended his hand towards the blonde teen.
"Your friend over there is Acnologia, right?" Jaune Arc motioned to the Dragon Slayer who laid in his sleeping bag with his eyes closed pretending to be asleep.
"Yes. I guess he is pretty popular. Huh." Gohan scratched the back of his head. He wasn't that surprised people recognized the Dragon Slayer. His long blue hair was a give-away to who he was. Combined with his reputation, he was well known in Remnant among the hunter hopefuls. But this reputation also deferred many from approaching him casually, except certain bold ones.
Jaune Arc glanced over to Acnologia and assumed he was sound asleep.
"Well, I haven't seen him before. Only heard about him." "He's got a pretty bad attitude hasn't he?" Jaune remarked recklessly.
Acnologia clearly heard this. The senses of a Dragon was not one to be underestimated. The dragon slayer opened his left eye and shot a threatening stare at the blonde who felt his heart was going to explode. The look itself made him shake in his boots.
"Please don't annoy him. It gets pretty bad when he gets annoyed." Gohan motioned to the blonde to shush. He then gave a pleading look to Acno to overlook that. The Dragon King simply went back to his initial pretence of sleeping.
"Sorry about that. It just came out." Jaune Arc tried his best to issue an apology.
"Don't sweat on it. Just make sure you don't say anything like this in front of him in the future." The saiyan hybrid replied with a goofy smile.
"Can I ask you guys, why you are here at Beacon and not at the Atlas academy?"
Gohan paused for a moment trying to come up with a lie.
"Well, we just thought Beacon was the best. So it made sense to join Beacon. We spent a year travelling around to improve ourselves. And then decided to attend Beacon." To an experienced eye, Gohan's lie would have been laid bare. But Jaune Arc did not have any experience nor did he view the reason with a discerning eye. So even Gohan who was horrible at lying succeeded in deceiving the blonde.
The only thing that stood out as far as Jaune was concerned was that Gohan told him things he did not inquire about. He started to feel a bit uneasy around them. After Acno's death stare, he had lost all the confidence he had on earlier.
"Anyway, it was nice meeting you Gohan. We'll see tomorrow for the initiation. Please tell your friend I said sorry." The blonde waved goodbye as he walked away. Gohan could see that the blonde was sweating a bit from the strange encounter.
What struck out the most about him was that he was really weak compared to the others. Gohan had earlier sensed the power levels of everyone present. He deducted Ozpin and Glynda to be the strongest among the crowd. While certain students also stood out. While this guy practically emitted no aura signature. The saiyan hybrid couldn't understand why. Maybe he was really good at hiding his strength or actually really weak.
X-X
Itachi Uchiha had a well thought out plan that he communicated to his comrades before they arrived at Beacon. He predicted things would go smoothly as he had envisioned. Due to several reasons, that plan had failed in its execution stage. But what he did not expect at all was having a face to face conversation with the Headmaster of Beacon, Ozpin at the grounds of the academy.
"So Mr. Uchiha, I have to say I am a bit surprised you decided to join Beacon." Ozpin commented. Itachi could notice that this man was cunning and highly experienced. His words nor his body language gave out anything regarding his intentions. He was now sure of one fact, he had gravely underestimated the man.
'Well professor Ozpin, Beacon is the best among the bunch. Me and my friends felt that we should attend only the best academy." Itachi lied straight to Ozpin's face. He was an experienced Shinobi who was once a member of both the Anbu and the Akatsuki. Hiding his intentions and his true emotions was child's play to him.
Ozpin simply gave a friendly smile at the comment. "Of course, it is your choice to choose whichever academy you want."
"But might I add, James would be really mad at me when he hears his best prodigies ended up here at Beacon." The headmaster of Beacon chuckled.
Itachi gave a light grin in reply simultaneously looking over to Zack for a brief moment. The ex-soldier was given instructions to keep his semblance activated to sense aura in case they ran into something like this.
"In all due respect Professor Ozpin, we have not yet undergone the initiation, so isn't it too early to say we have joined Beacon?"
Ozpin gave out a slight laugh as he brought his coffee mug to his lips. "You are right Mr. Uchiha. It is still too early to say. But I wish you all the best."
Itachi Uchiha had more than enough experience with all kinds of people. He could infer Ozpin was not putting up a façade. He might have his doubts but he was a caring individual deep down who never intended malice. These queries he possessed must stem from his concern for his students and maybe for a greater cause. But this man knew a lot of things about this world that was hidden from the public eye.
Itachi was now convinced about Ozpin. He might be the one person they can trust to act accordingly in this world. All these years they never met anyone who they could trust aside from themselves.
"Well, it's time for us to get going professor. It was a pleasure to meet you." Itachi voiced as he prepared to leave.
"The pleasure was all mine Mr. Uchiha. And please do not end up causing a lot of unwanted destruction here. Glynda already has a lot to put up with." Ozpin added while he took a sip from his mug.
"Nothing of the sorts would happen. I promise you that." Itachi shot back a bit surprised why such a request was put forward.
"And please refrain from repeating what happened with old Qrow."
This statement made the Uchiha stop in his tracks. Even Zack who had been silent throughout the entirety of the conversation gave out an exclamation of surprise.
Itachi glanced at Zack briefly before looking upto Ozpin "This Qrow is he an associate of yours, professor?"
"As a matter of fact he is Mr. Uchiha. Actually, he is a very close and important associate of mine."
Itachi now understood why the headmaster of Beacon viewed them with such scrutiny. He should have held back his rage at that time. The Uchiha grit his teeth in frustration. Qrow had seen him use the sussano'o. It was clearly understandable, Ozpin doubting their real strength.
Itachi's face took a more serious demeanour. "To be frank professor, your associate was drunk and he initiated the confrontation."
Ozpin again took a sip from his mug while his eyes showed he was smiling. "It's clearly understandable. Old Qrow really is nasty when he is drunk. But still you Mr. Uchiha gave him quote a brutal beating. Let me say, very few huntsmen I know can do something like that to an experienced hunter like Qrow."
The tone of Ozpin's voice slightly shook the Uchiha. He began to wonder if he made a mistake coming here. But now it was too late. If they left now, it would only add more fuel to the fire.
Itachi faked a smile "Please convey my apologies to him professor." Itachi slightly bowed his head. Zack too repeated the gesture.
"Now if you'll excuse us. The others are waiting." Itachi slightly bowed again as he and Zack walked away.
"Quite an interesting bunch they are." Ozpin mused to himself as he continued sipping from his mug. "It seems they are not a bad lot. Just four teenagers trying to find their way in the world."
"But still, they are hiding something."
"Looks like things are shaping upto be an interesting year."
X-X
The walk back to the ballroom was slow and incredibly dull. Zack purposefully kept his mouth shut during the conversation between Itachi and Ozpin as he did not want to blurt out something inappropriate. The ex-soldier continued to maintain his silence seeing that Itachi was lost deep in thoughts. Anyone could guess that the Uchiha was pondering about the next step now that most of his initial assumptions were proven wrong.
Confirming his guess, Itachi was in truth pondering about everything that had transpired. It was no use now to run away. It would just arouse more suspicion. He knew they needed a strong ally in this world and Ozpin fit the bill perfectly. But the man was more cunning and cautious than he imagined. He seemed pretty trustworthy and if he had to guess, Ozpin too appeared on the lookout for powerful allies. Maybe in time, he could enclose further details to the man, only after he made sure the man was completely trustworthy.
The duo had reached their destination by the time Itachi came to a conclusion.
Acno appeared to be dozing while Gohan was busy doing something on his scroll. Seeing them approach, the saiyan hybrid looked up and waved to them.
"Guess what, G-man. We ran into Ozpin a while ago." Zack said as he threw a bag containing eatables to an Acnologia who now chose to wake up when he sensed their presence.
The Dragon King did not like the way he handled that but he was really hungry to be bothered about it. When he became a dragon, he was unable to taste normal food and had since forgotten about its taste. Now, in his human form, it all came back to him. One thing, he did not try to hide was his appetite which was second only to Gohan's.
Gohan himself took a pack of chips out of the bag.
"So, Itachi how did it go?" He asked the Uchiha as he tore open the packet.
"Let me just say, I seriously underestimated the man." Itachi responded while he seated himself on the floor.
He then began to explain what he thought about the situation to the others.
A moment of silence prevailed after Itachi concluded.
"So, I guess the plan to remain low was a failure." Gohan was the first to break the silence.
Itachi gave a sigh of disappointment. "But I don't think we are in any trouble. We just have to gain his trust."
"I told you earlier that this plan was doomed to fail. And the most important fact was because you beat up that scythe wielding human. See, I am not the one to blame, am I?" Acno flashed a cocky grin.
"Well, let bygones be bygones. We just have to do our best. To be honest, I myself was not much in agreement about laying low. After all that had come to pass, I believe we deserve to enjoy a bit." Gohan's conclusion earned a nod of approval from both Itachi and Acnologia.
"And Zack" The saiyan hybrid turned to the ex-soldier. "Why are you so silent? It's highly unlike you."
"He is a bit disappointed that no one here recognized him, especially the women folk." Itachi was the one to answer.
Zack paused fiddling with the burger in his hand.
"Hey, I am not disappointed. Don't go assuming things. As a matter of fact, no one recognized any of you big shots." Zack reposted holding up his burger up high while crushing it to a pulp.
"Yes, we can see how not disappointed you are." Itachi chuckled.
"Actually Zack." Gohan cut in.
"There were actually many people who recognized Acno and came up to meet him." He added while he placed a hand on the Dragon King's shoulder earning a haughty smirk from the latter.
The expression on Zack's face was priceless. He was devastated.
After failing at his effort for a counter, he just curled up in his sleeping bag and pretended to doze off.
Gohan and Itachi had a good laugh. Even Acno couldn't help but produce a smile at his antics.
The Uchiha let out a yawn as he too sunk back on his sleeping bag. "Ok guys, I'm going off to sleep. Good night."
"Good Night Itachi" Gohan replied as he fell back on his makeshift bed.
The Dragon King gave a nod and continued to devour his food. Tomorrow's initiation sort of bothered him. In all honesty, he desperately hoped they would end up on the same team. He actually missed them when they were not around.
X-X
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