RWBY: Ghost of Remnant Vol.1
Chapter 9: Desire or Corruption?
WARNING: I own none of these characters sides from my OC(s). All rights go to their respective owners and properties. The OCs Axel Saber and Luna Saber belongs to ShadowBladeKnight.
This is nothing more than, well a fanfic, a story made up by a fan for entertainment and knowledge.
Everything in this fic is not canon and is only meant to give the audience a new idea of the works of each of the franchises in this story.
So please support me, my work and have some fun. Now enjoy the story. ^w^
The night was progressing as the boat was making its way to Vale. Most of the passengers were fast asleep while a… 'stowaway' was resting against the exhaust of the boat. His hands gripped tightly against each other as he sleeps.
"You are a weak fool!"
"Weiss!"
"I WILL KILL YOU DAMN MONSTER!"
"Why makes him special to get that eyecon?"
He quickly woke up, breathing heavily as he looked around. He looked at his hands, staring at them before he clenched them in anger. "What makes him so special…" he growled. "He is only a weak fool… he doesn't deserve their power…" He knew that the Eyecons will lead to the answer to saving his little sister but with the Ghost in his way, it makes things somewhat easier but also an obstacle to gather 15 Eyecons of the Luminaries.
"I will get stronger…" he vowed. "I will get the Eyecons…"
He had more experience with the primary Damashii he has, unlike Cody's 'soul' that is in that Ore Eyecon he has. Not to mention, Cody's Ghost Driver is not in 'full potential' like his. Even more that he has been around with the Driver far longer than him. He went through pure hell, the pain, and horror which resulted with the Ghost Driver and the Specter Eyecon. However, unlike Cody's Ore having his soul inside it, the Specter Eyecon has a soul of strength, instead having his own soul in it.
But what made him surprised is how he was not only able to gain a new Eyecon, but that other one with the soul of that Wizard fellow in it. "Why does everyone trust him so much?" He questioned. "He's only a weakling…"
"Is that what you often think, old friend?"
Specter quickly got up as the smoke from the exhaust was fading in the sky. Standing there was a young man, around Specter's age, with short, wavy black hair that had blonde tips. He was wearing a sleeveless grey shirt over a darker grey short sleeve shirt. It was mostly hidden by the super long high quality scarf he had wrapped around his neck, the scarf being so long that it could serve as an improper sleeve for his right arm. He wore matching baggy gray pants, along with black boots. For accessories, he tied some gray rope to serve as a wristband, along with small white feathers for earrings.
"When was the last time we been 'friends'?" Specter spat venom. "Your people were the reason to the hell I've been through."
"But did it not help you get stronger?" The young man said as he walked to him. He placed his hand on Specter's shoulder before the latter swiped it away.
"You did nothing to help me back then. Nothing. Specter growled.
"You do remember who helped you two when we were all mere children?"
Specter quickly brought his first to the young man who blocked it. "And was taught a few things of combat from you."
The azure Rider moved his arm away, memories of his younger self training the person in front of him. Specter moved away, looking at the upcoming lights of Vale. "What do you want?" He demanded. But as he turned back to where this young man was, he saw that he already left the ship.
Specter scoffed before he leaned against the exhaust of the boat as his sights of Vale was getting closer. He looked at the two necklaces before putting them away. 'What are you up to Alan…'
Vale
Out near where the old ruins were, a few kids were able to sneak out there. So far, no Grimm in sight as one of the kids crawled up to one of the pillars. "Okay, you guys ready to explore some ruins?"
"You sure this is a good idea?" One asked.
"I'm sure of it."
He pulled down the pillar as a small knob was inside it. He twisted it clockwise twice before pushing it out then in. The ground shook as near by a set of stairs is made, going deeper into the area below. "This is going to be sick!"
They entered the secret stairway as they walked down a long hallway. As they did, pictures of odd tribal markings, paintings and symbols filled the walls. As if it was telling a story as they moved deeper into they came across a large sealed door. Several markings and talismans filled it, as if it was trying to keep something from going in….. Or out.
The door also had the image of a crab, shrimp, and scorpion.
"Why a shrimp and crab? Scorpion I get because of the Death Stalkers."
"Eh who cares!" Said the one leading as he reached into his pocket and brought out a Dust Grenade. "Glad dad didn't see me taking this from his store." He chuckled.
He aimed his arm at the door before throwing it, creating an explosion. A cloud of dust filled the area as the kids coughed before it slowly subside. The door was broken as they slowly made their ways into the tomb. They looked around and saw was looks to be rows of input torches but in the center was a statue.
Its body was black like the Grimm but humanoid. It's legs were like an exoskeleton of a shrimp as extrusions were on its shins. The chest and arms were that of a crab: it's right claw being a massive pincer while the other being clawed hand with four fingers. Crab legs pops out of its back with the shell acting as solid armor with the edges curving sideways, but it had a resemblance of a female breastplate.. Its head was the most disturbing feature. A large scorpion acting as a headdress but the pincers was covering the eyes, acting like visors with the stinger being an upward ponytail.
"Woah…. This is so cool!" The leader shouted as he rushed up to the body, looking at its features slowly.
"This could have been a shrine to a Grimm back in the past!"
"But… what's with this body? Is it.. A mummy? Or an armor set?" One of them asked, also walking around the tomb.
"Don't know but it was meant to be some stair for this tomb then it must mean something."
One of them wanted to move the tomb's top. "Hey help me move this!"
The other kid who wasn't doing anything nodded as they grabbed the top of the tomb and moved it to the side, it was hard and very taxing, but they were able to move it out of the way. Inside were three medals with different animals on them, a red hawk, a yellow tiger, and a green grasshoppers. But there were three black medals with the same animals as was on the door, and a literal ton of silver medals with an 'X' on them.
"Woah this is the mother load!" One of them said.
"Are these even worth anything?" One of the other ones asked, concerned on their value.
"Their made of silver, what do you think?"
One of the other kids picked up the black scorpion medal. "But these? Who would want a black medal with a lousy bug on it?"
"Wait don't those match the ones on the door?"
Before they can answer, the black medals glowed with a black light, floating out of its grasp. The silver coins flew around the black medals before they all were floating around the room.
"W-What's going on?!" The leader asked as the kids huddled together, starting to get scared from this phenomenon.
The medals flew into the statue as it was literally absorbing them. The three Black medals flew into each part of the body, a black light pulsing through it.
Everything was quiet until they saw the leg extrusions on its back and thighs move. They all flinched as the arms slowly began to move up as the legs moved forward slightly. The head tilted around as its eyes glowed for a moment.
"You…. I sense… desire in you… Shall I.. grant it?" the statue asked in a female voice as it lifted up a few medals at them.
It tossed it to them as slots appeared on their foreheads. A black void appeared on their backs as black 'mummies' stumbled out before getting on their feet.
The kids were now shaking in fear before they made a run for it, leaving the mummies with the now living statue.
"Let's satisfy more desires now, shall we?" It said to the three mummies. However she suddenly felt a major source.
A very strong and delicious desire indeed. A black glow covered the statue as a female stood there. She licked her lips as she turned towards the entrance to her tomb. "Now… that is more like it…"
What she didn't know was the three colored Medals flew away into the forest and created its own armored entity. "I'm…. alive?" It said softly as it looked at its hands before looking back up into the sky.
(Insert opening song - This Will Be The Day - RWBY Vol.1 Opening)
The start first starts off with a guitar strumming a bit before the lyrics start.
[They see you as small and helpless. They see you as just a child]
The screen shifts to Cody sitting upon a rooftop in the middle of the night. He sits their as he looks at the Ore Eyecon in his hand.
[Surprise when they find out that a warrior will soon run wild]
Something then goes amiss as Cody quickly looks up to see a fire outbreak near by. He then smirks as he jumps off of the roof.
[Prepare for your greatest moments. Prepare for your finest hour.]
The title card then appears as it shines a bit before shifting down after Cody.
[The dream that you've always dreamed is, Suddenly about to flower]
As Cody runs through the road, he passes by a single rose in a pot, a snowflake in a store, a cat in an alley way, and finally a single ember flicker from a window of an occupied house.
[We are lightning]
Once he reaches the area, four shadows appear above him. Cody stops to see the shadows land in front of him.
[Straying from the thunder, Miracles of ancient wonder]
In front of him were Team Rwby smiling at him. Cody then smiles back as he grabs the lever of the Ghost Driver on his waist and pushes it in to don on the Ghost Damashii.
[This will be the day we've waited for, This will be the day we open up the door]
Fight then breaks out as Cody and Team Rwby are fighting against the Grimm and the Ganma as they class h it out together.
[I don't wanna hear your absolution, Hope you're ready for a revolution]
As they fight them, Team JNPR drop down to assist them as they battle some more highly evolved Ganma.
[Welcome to a world of new solutions, Welcome to a world of bloody evolution]
As both teams fight their enemies, Roman is standing on a roof near by, watching them fight along with Alan and his benefactor as they grin from ear to ear about some special plan they have in-stored for them all.
[In time-your heart will open minds]
As the fight continues, the teams are surrounded by Ganma and Grimm as they approach them all. And out from the distance is Ozpin watching them all along with Sennin as he smiles and offers them some power.
[A story will be told , And victory is in a simple soul]
Energy flows into Cody, Team RWBY and JNPR. They all then nod at each other as Cody activates his OmegaDrive. They all then jump at the enemies, delivering their own special attack as Cody flies at the screen with a rider kick, smashing through and showing the title card one last time.
After several hours, Ruby and the gang finally reached back to Beacon, a bit exhausted from the trip as both Yang and Ruby collapsed on their beds, tired. "Oh how I missed this bed…." She cooed.
"You can say that again," Yang agreed. "Although it was fun."
"It was a long journey. But I for one am glad you all liked it there." Cody smiled as he placed his bags on his bed as Razor walked in, sniffing around.
It sniffed around a little more before jumping onto the bed, it's feet slightly stomping the cushion before resting. "Hehe, guess Razor here is already enjoying its new room." Yang chuckled as she petted its head.
"So, how long do we have till classes start back up again?" Cody asked.
"Tomorrow," Weiss answered. "And in couple of days, we have a field trip."
"Oh yeah forgot about that," Yang remembered.
"Right! To that forest. I heard that the red roses look amazing in the sunset." Cody said, sitting on his bed.
Upon hearing that, Weiss had an image of being there with her crush, causing her to blush.
"Ohh? Thinking about Mister Devil huh?" Ruby giggled, teasing her.
"Sh-Shut up!" She shouted with a blush.
Just then the door opened up as Jaune pops in. "Hey you're all back! How was the-" Suddenly Razor quickly looks up as it jumps onto Jaune, knocking him down as it reveals the rest of Team JNPR behind the door. Jaune started to freak out and scream loudly as Razor sniffed as it began to use its maw to reach in his pocket before pulling out a candy bar.
It took it back to the bed and started to nibble on it. "W-What is a Grimm doing here?!" He shouted. "H-Hey that's my candy!"
It belched after eating a piece of the candy bar. "Guys don't worry, that Grimm is from the Isle of The Dragon's Breath, Cody's home." Yang assured.
"Wait, this is the rumored Grimm that are friendly to humans and Faunus?" Pyrrha asked as the rest came into look at it. Razor was still nibbling on it as it looked like it was enjoying the candy.
"I call it Razor. It's from an almost extinct species of Grimm. From what I could tell, they called it a 'Raptor'." Cody explained.
"So cool!" Nora said, looking at the said Grimm finishing up the candy.
"Did anything happen while we were gone?" Blake asked.
"Well… Axel still hasn't talked to us." Jaune sighed. "We often see him head to the training arena, telling us not to bother him."
"Sounds like he's been a hoot…" Yang frowned as she crossed her arms.
"Is he at your dorm?"
"No, he's at the training room… again." Pyrrha answered.
"Hey, give it time. He'll grow on you all sooner or later?" Ruby smiled as Razor finished the candy, to Jaune's distress as it jumped up and curled up to Ruby.
"Why don't we just see him?" Yang suggested.
"But he said-"
"He said not to bother him." Yang grinned. "He didn't say watch him train, did he?"
"Yang, I like your style," Nora chuckled. Everyone nodded as they made their way to the training area. Ready to sneak in and watch.
The two teams made their way to the training room, sneaking their way in. "Are you sure this is a good idea, Yang?" Jaune asked.
"Of course! It's not the first time I peeped on a boy." She smirked. Just by hearing this gave Cody a very odd shiver down his spine as they kept sneaking towards the room. As they get closer they heard the sound of punching which showed that someone was training. They slowly peeked and saw none other than Axel who was practicing his punches and kicked. However what they saw shocked them. His shoulders were massively scarred. Not only that, there was some that looked a bit more 'fresher' than the others. As if they were just recently acquired. Despite wearing a sleeveless shirt they could see the scarring along the arms as well. They could tell that he could have more under the shirt.
"He sure seems fit, spite the scars…"" Weiss complimented.
"Falling for him as well Weiss?" Yang smirked.
Weiss looked away with a blush. "So that's why he wears that jacket…" Blake realized. "He hides the scars he has… Just what did he go through to get all that?"
"Whatever it is, it must be something he didn't want to show… Possibly didn't want to relive old memories…" Cody said softly, understanding his reason.
They continued to watch before he delivered a roundhouse kick which knocked the punching bag out of its hook and onto the ground.
"I wouldn't mind sparring against him sometime," Yang said with a challenging grin.
"Heh, no doubt you would win sis." Ruby smiled, patting her gently.
"Hmm… I don't know Yang… Seems to me he has a few tricks hidden…" Cody noted.
"Aw come on. How can mystery guy have a few tricks?" She asked. "He doesn't have any weapons on him when he got here. Come to think of it, only been relying on his bare hands."
"Precisely. I may not be the best fighter out there, but even I can tell when someone is not only holding back but hiding something.." He says as he looks at her. "And I should know better than anyone…"
"Wait you're telling us he's been holding back?" Jaune realized.
"At first when I saw his fight last week, I couldn't tell… But now from judging his scars and the way he knocked that down easily. It's obvious he is holding a lot back….." Cody stated.
"Looks like Yang and Pyrrha might have a rival in fighting," Nora said.
"I think we should leave him be-…" Ruby mentioned before she stopped talking.
"What's wrong?"
She pointed behind them. "He's right behind us isn't he?" Ruby nodded slowly.
"And I thought I told you all, 'Not' to bother me?" He said to them.
"We were only watching you," Yang crossed her arms. "You didn't say we can't watch you train now did you?"
Axel's hand clenched upon the remark as Yang had a grin. "Gotcha didn't I?"
Axel didn't say nothing only to grab his jacket and walked past them. As if time had slowed down, Weiss saw his eyes before time continued as the young man walked away from the group, not willing to talk to them. 'Those eyes…' She thought to herself, wondering why they looked so familiar. She swore she seen those kind of eyes before.
The next day came as the students were in Professor Oobleck's class, talking about some of the history bits of Vale while drinking his "Super" Coffee.
Team RWBY and Cody were simply doing what they usually do when it comes to a class like this, Ruby drawing in her notebook, Blake reading her book, Yang resting her head on her hand, Cody listening to his music, but he was looking at the notes on the board. Weiss was left in her thoughts as well.
She turned her head to the mysterious student Axel who was just listening in on the topics, ignoring some stares he was getting from some of the female students.
Jaune though accidentally fell asleep due to Oobleck's speed talking and leaving himself open. And right now, the Professor was continuing his lesson.
"This is prior to the Faunus Rights Revolution, more popularly known as the Faunus War!" He zooms up to the front of the class and the map covered in papers behind his desk. "Humankind was quite, quite adamant about centralizing Faunus population in Menagerie."
He points at the map of said-area with his stick, then zooms off to the side for a sip of his coffee before appearing in front of the desk. "Now! While this must feel like ancient history to many of you, it is imperative to remember that these are relatively recent events! Why, the repercussions of the uprising can still be seen to this day!" He zooms around the classroom more, sipping his coffee again before continuing to zoom and talk. "Now! Have any among you been subjugated or discriminated because of your Faunus heritage?"
A few students raised their hands while the rabbit Faunus, Velvet was nervous at first before raising her hand.
"Dreadful, simply dreadful! Remember students, it is precisely this kind of ignorance that breeds violence." He finished his statement with a sip from his cup. "I mean, I mean, I mean just look at what happened to White Fang! Now, which one of you young scallions can tell me what many theorize to be the turning point in the third year of the War?" He then noticed Weiss who raised her hand. "Yes?"
"The Battle at Fort Castle!" She answered.
"Precisely! And, who can tell me the advantage the Faunus had over General Lagune's forces?" He stated.
Cardin smirked as he quickly assembled a paper football as he aimed it at the sleeping Jaune before sending it into the back of his head, snapping him awake from the impact. "Hey!"
Professor Oobleck zooms over to Jaune. "Mr. Arc! Finally contributing to class! This is excellent! Excellent! What is the answer?" he asked.
"Uhh...the answer...the advantage, uhh the faunus...had over that guy's stuff..." Jaune saw Pyrrha trying to give him the answer by forming her hands into, what looked like, binoculars. "Uhh, binoculars!" Jaune quickly said as the thought he was right...but he wasn't and some students laughed as he realized he was wrong and Oobleck (back at the front of the class) sips his coffee. Pyrrha sighs and slaps a hand to her forehead as Cardin pounds his fist on his desk while chortling.
"Very funny, Mr Arc. Cardin, perhaps you would care to share your thoughts on the subject?" Oobleck casually asked.
"Well, I know it's a lot easier to train an animal than a soldier." Cardin said, all calm and cool.
"Says the one who acts like an animal most of the time." Cody commented with a smirk.
Axel scoffed upon hearing that. "More like a weak-link…" Most of the students chuckled and giggled from their exchange at Cardin.
"You got a problem?" Cardin growled. "Now easy you two. Can do you have the answer Mr. Saber?" Oobleck asked.
"I don't but, but she does," Axel jabbed his thumb at Pyrrha as if he knew she had something to say.
"The answer is that many Faunus have night vision. In which it gives them near-perfect sight in the dark, thus giving them the advantage." she said, getting the correct answer.
This made Cardin growl at her correct response. Blake took over and continued from her answer. "General Lagoon was inexperienced and made the mistake of trying to ambush the faunus in their sleep. His massive army was outmatched and the General was captured." She then looked at Cardin. "Perhaps if he paid attention in class, he wouldn't have been remembered as such a failure."
"And being weak…"
Cardin clenched his fist and stood up glaring at Blake and more importantly Axel, but Professor Oobleck sighed and said, "Mr. Winchester, please take your seat." Jaune was heard chuckling softly but the Professor slid up to his desk. "You and Mr. Arc can both see me after class for additional readings. Now! Moving on!"
As Oobleck continued his work, Jaune sighed slightly. 'Great… Now I have this to deal with….' Jaune groaned in his thoughts. He turned his head to Axel who stared at the board. He had been trying his best to get along but instead the mysterious 'teammate' doesn't want nothing to do with being in a team.
They learned how capable he was on handling on his own just from seeing him train. The scars he had would tell stories, as if he trained much more than others might think. What will convince the guy to talk and get along with the team?
As class was over, everyone left except Cardin and Jaune while Pyrrha stayed by the door. Axel gave Cardin and Jaune one last look before leaving.
He had to admit, Jaune… was weak but Cardin on the other hand was just weaker. Thinking that showing off will lead to greatness, strength, and such but it won't work that way.
He disliked the talkative and hyperactive Nora. The girl annoys him to no end. Ren was silent, doesn't talk much but he didn't trust him. Pyrrha, the 'Invincible Girl' wasn't invincible to him. She may be strong but even he can tell there's a chance she can lose one day just like he had against that Kaijin.
Axel watched Cody talk to those of Team RWBY. He needed those Eyecons to get what he needs to bring back his little sister but he is an obstacle. So much so that he's starting to become more of a problem, day by day. He remembered the words Weiss said to him back at the shores. But he needed those Eyecons… He has to get them to bring back Luna. 'Why am I feeling like this..?' He thought. Sure he may have kissed Weiss since his little sister kept telling him from his pocket. It felt warm to say at least. But he mostly did it to make her quiet….. Right? He shook these odd feelings off as he headed out.
With Oobleck though was looking at Cardin and Jaune as he sipped more and more of his coffee before they were being talked to by him for about 10 minutes before leaving the classroom. Jaune was the first one to leave the classroom before Cardin pushed him down, earning a laugh from seeing Jaune fall.
"You know, I really will break his legs." Pyrrha said, helping Jaune get back on his feet.
Jaune sighs, and Pyrrha looks like she is struck by inspiration "I have an idea! Here, come with me!" she grabs a confused Jaune by the arm and drags him along as she turns down the corridor. After a couple of minutes, they came onto a rooftop of one of the buildings, with a clear view of the glowing green orbs in the central tower of Beacon.
"Pyrrha, I know I'm going through a hard time right now, but I'm not that depressed." He looks over the edge of the roof, to the confusion of Pyrrha. "I can always be a farmer or something..."
This made Pyrrha realized what he meant. "N-n-no!" She dashes to push Jaune away from the edge, "That's not why I brought you up here. Jaune, I know you're having a difficult time in class and that you're still not the strongest of fighters, so... I want to help you."
It looked like it was offensive to what she said to him, as he replied, "Ah, what?" He said, taken back a bit.
"We can train up here after class where no one can bother us. It won't be as difficult as Goodwitch's training."
"You think I need help?"
"N-no! No, that's not what I meant." She said.
"But you just said it." Jaune said plainly.
"Jaune, everyone needs a little push from time to time. It doesn't make you any different from the rest of us. You made it to Beacon that speaks volumes of what you are capable of." Pyrrha reassured him that he belonged there.
"You're wrong, I-I don't belong here."
"That's a terrible thing to say of course you do."
"No, I don't!" Jaune raised his voice a bit, causing confusion from Pyrrha. "I wasn't really accepted into Beacon..."
"What do you mean?" Pyrrha questioned.
"I mean I didn't go to combat school, I didn't pass any test, I didn't earn my spot at this academy, I lied! I got my hands on some fake transcripts, and I lied." Jaune finished.
"What? But why?" Pyrrha asked with concern.
"Because, this is what I always wanted to be! My father, my grandfather and his father before him were all warriors, they were all heroes! I wanted to be one too, I was just never good enough."
"Then let me help you-" Pyrrha put a hand on Jaune shoulder and he quickly turned back away from her.
"I don't want help! I don't want to be the damsel in distress, I want to be the hero!"
"Jaune, I-"
"I'm tired of being the lovable idiot stuck in the tree, while his friend fight for their lives. Don't you understand?" He questioned before pointing by the ledge, seeing Cody who was talking to Ruby and Weiss who were at the ground. "Take him for example, Pyrrha. He is like me but at the same time, he isn't the damsel in distress. He has that cool armor and even fought those Grimm easily. If I can't do this on my own, then what good am I?"
Pyrrha attempts to reach out for his arm and console him, but he leans back from her touch.
"Just...leave me alone, okay?" Jaune asked her.
"If that's what you think is best." Pyrrha said sadly and walked back into the roof entrance, and down the stairs.
Jaune paces a little until he hears a mocking laugh and Cardin appears on the roof from his window. "Oh, Jaune..."
Jaune looked behind him and saw Cardin. "Cardin!" He panicked.
"I couldn't help but overhear you two from my dorm room. So, you snuck into beacon huh? I gotta say Jaune, I never expected you to be such a rebel." Cardin folded his arms and grinned, knowing he now has the ability to blackmail poor Jaune.
"Please, Cardin please don't tell anyone." Jaune pleaded.
"Jaune, come on, I'd never rat out a friend like that." Cardin walked over to Jaune.
"Uh, a friend?"
"Of course." Cardin put Jaune in a friendly headlock and continued. "We're friends now Jauney-boy. And the way I see it as long as you're there for me when I need you, we'll be friends for a long time." He dropped Jaune and he breathed heavily. "That being said, I really don't have time to do those readings Dr. Oobleck gave us today. Think you could take care of that, buddy? That's what I thought..." Cardin walked back over to the ledge and slid down to where Jaune could still see him. "Don't worry Jaune, your secret is safe with me." And Cardin hopped down from the ledge.
Jaune sighed. "Man, what did I get myself into..."
Meanwhile out in forest, Axel was leaning against his Rider machine, sighing as he shakes more of these odd feelings out of his head. But they just keep coming back!
"Brother are you alright?"
Axel reached in his pocket and got out the Pink Ganma Eyecon. "I… I don't know…" He answered. "It's these… Feelings." He placed his hand over where his heart would be. "After… that night, it keeps beating faster… often thinking about the Heiress."
The Eyecon giggled as the pink slightly glowed. "It's cause you're in love silly…"
"In love…?" He repeated.
"Yes. Thats what its called…. Just like how you love me. But this is… more deeper than family or friend bonds."
Axel looked at his hand. "Remember when you rescued her?" He nodded upon the memory.
"I… gave her the rose. Even liking her song…"
"Well, that was when it started to blossom. Before long, in the back of your heart… You started to develop feelings for her. Why else would you be so angry about that monster who hurt her?" She stated.
Axel couldn't forget how much anger he had towards that cursed kaijin. "Don't remind me…" He muttered lowly. He looked at the time and saw it was the right time to look at the view of Vale before doing what he usually does in that city.
The next day came as Oobleck was standing in front of his desk. Several students were whispering as to why class hasn't started yet? But before they could say anything, the doors slammed open. Out walked a Faunus man that looked like around his early 20's, The species seemed to be that of a hawk as his eyes were in the shape, with a few feather poking out of his arms. He was wearing odd tie-dye clothes while carrying books in one hand, while in the other was a stick that was hanging a pair of boxers? He walked down as he stood next to Oobleck.
"Well! Students. This is your substitute teacher, Professor Avian Cureoir. He shall be here for awhile. As I must attend to some… 'urgent' business." Oobleck introduced as he quickly zipped away from the class.
The one now named Avian placed his stick by the desk as some sweatdropped upon his choice. He turned to look at the students with a smile that shows kindness and understanding. "I'll be your substitute teacher for the week. It is a pleasure to be here." He slightly bowed in kindness and respect to the students.
Some of the female students shrieked with glee upon seeing him as a few of the guys were surprised by his good nature. "Anyways, today we'll be talking about a few ancient cultures and religions. If you all could please open today's books, we can begin." He said as he walked over to the board.
He looked at the marker before grabbing it and began to draw the topic of the subject. Oddly enough Ruby and the others saw Cody without his music, already deep into the books. "Since when did you get interested that quickly?" Yang whispered.
"Since we got someone who doesn't look like they're hyped on coffee… Plus, I do enjoy ancient cultures. Speaking from experience." He winked as he turned back to the subject.
They saw that within 5 minutes, the teacher actually drew a lot of images. One being that of a warrior in the colors of a traffic light strangely. "Can any of you tell who this is?" he asked.
Cody was the first to notice as he raised his hand. This also catching Axel's attention. "Ah yes… Mr. Aldrich, I presume?"
Cody nods to him. "That would be the Multi-King, OOO." Cody answered.
"Correct you are," he smiled. "The Multi-King was a man who fought creatures of Grimm with power like no other. Some say that he treated his subjects as equals in the past, being selfless and reaching out to help them. Even if you were a noble or a commoner." he pointed at an image of a black creature. "However there were those that disliked his 'good nature' and wanted his power in which they created a creature that embodies retrieving desires but at the same time time gaining power by eating the desires it creates."
Some of the students paid attention as they wanted to know more? But the one here most interested was Axel as he kept hearing the story about this… 'OOO' character…. Even if this so-called king had good nature, he must have had a strong soul if he was able to perform those powerful feats. "What happened to him?" Axel asked.
The students all turned their heads to him, surprised by his question.
"Ah, he fought the entity but… at a cost. He used his power to not only seal the monster's source of life but his own to prevent the creature from creating chaos onto his kingdom. They say he was strong to the heart since he was willing to sacrifice his own life to save his people. No one knows where his tombs resides or the body of that monster. But it is said that the old ruins behind Beacon was part of his kingdom once. Although that theory has not been proven..."
"Um.. Professor…" Ruby raised her hand. "It sounds like you know a lot about this."
"You can say his story brings inspiration to some," he smiled kindly. He then started to continue the subject, but as he was Axel was thinking things over.
'If that's true… Then maybe what I seek could be in those ruins… I'll check it out once nightfall comes..' He thought to himself as for once, he decided to listen to the subject. He didn't know was that the professor saw what was behind the young man's heart.
'I have to make sure he doesn't go through the path I once nearly went through…' The Professor thought.'
Night falls as Axel sneakily exits his room, doing his best not to wake up his 'teammates' and his 'neighbors'. He heads out of the school as he makes his way towards the forest ruins. He looks around as he saw a couple of Grimm. He jumped onto the branches as he looked down at them, the Beowolves growling.
He could only scoff as he jumps down, the only sound being heard from the trees was gunshots and blades cutting through bone and flesh as the bodies of the Grimm slowly dissipated in the air. "Weak…" he huffed before continuing his way to the ruins.
After a bit of a long walk, he made it to the ruins as he placed his hand on the wall. He slowly walked around to find this possible entrance when he heard someone sneaking up behind him. "You really should be in bed. You have a curfew." Behind him was Professor Avian as he has his arms crossed.
He quickly turned around and saw the professor. "I… I wanted to know more about the king." he explained.
"Uh huh…. You just want to find his power for yourself, don't you?" He stated.
"I don't know what you are talking about…" he replied.
"I know those kind of eyes Axel. You can't fool me." He said as he approached him. "Listen, the way I see behind those eyes were the same thing that the King nearly went through."
"What do you mean?"
"You see, the story you all know is just a farce. He wanted more and more power to rule over Remnant. He didn't care for anyone but himself…." He explained. "He gathered more power, wanting to be stronger than anyone even to his greatest generals."
"He gained so much power, that he in turned was the one who created those creatures of desire. He was the reason for their existence…. As well as their deaths later on." He turned his head to him. "And in the end, he lost everything after getting the strength needed. He regretted it greatly… And I don't want to see other go down that path either. Especially you Axel." He frowned as he placed his hand on his shoulder.
"Whatever you are doing to gain power won't be your answer. You can only be strong when there is something precious to you that you want to protect." he stated. "You stay strong to protect those you care about. Don't you have anyone you care about that you want to protect?"
Axel looked down upon hearing that. "I failed to protect my little sister at the end…" he muttered lowly. "But…" He remembered the words a certain heiress said to him.
'Will you protect me… forever?' Resonated in his mind again.
Avian smiles lightly. "Seems to me, there is still someone to protect…." He placed both of his hands on Axel. "Listen… You can gain this strength, but don't let your desire take it over… Otherwise you'll feel only emptiness inside…."
The young man looked at the Faunus who let out a smile. "Come on, you should head back to your dorm." he said.
"Or, give into those desires?" Called out a feminine voice.
They turned to the right and saw three mummies and a young woman. She had long black hair while the back was done up into a unique ponytail, resembling a scorpion tail. She had dark clothes on, covered with spikes. "Ah, it is good to see you, my king." She bowed to him.
The Faunus scowled. "I'm not him." he said.
She wiggled her finger at him, as if it was a scorn. "You cannot fool me, my king. For you have the Aura and the weapon of OOO. I can see it as clear as day…" She said before pointing to him.
Avian clenched his hands. "I. am. Not. him." he said. "I've changed my ways after learning my mistakes."
The girl frowned as she sighed. "Seems the power choose a fool… But.." She then turned to Axel as a wicked grin appeared on her face as she licked her lips. "But he.. Is brimming with Desire…" She grinned as she brought out a silver Medal.
Axel stood back a bit, he wanted to fight the new kaijin but he didn't want to blow his cover as the Blue Devil in front of the professor. Avian thought stood in front of Axel, in arms length. "Axel, get to cover. I don't want my student to get hurt in this fight…" He brought out a belt, making Axel see it.
'That is…'
Avian placed the buckle on his waist, forming a belt to wrap around. He presented three colored Medals, one red, the second yellow, and the third being green. He slot in the red and green Medal before placing in the yellow one, causing the buckle to be slanted. He grabbed a round device from his side, a chime going off before he swiped it across the three medals. "...Henshin…" I said before I moved the O Scanner close to my chest.
TAKA!
TORA!
BATTA!
TA-TO-BA TATOBA TA-TO-BA!
He became surrounded by spinning coloured Medals which accompanied the transformation. In front of him, images of the three Medals he was using appear. Taka was on the top, Tora was in the middle, and Batta was at the bottom. The three images then combined into one large crest which flew backwards and into his chest. His body then became enveloped in energy which swiftly hardened into solid armour.
His helmet was mainly black, save for the red faceplate which looked like a hawk with its wings spread out in flight. On my forehead and acting as the hawk's beak was a red crystal with the eyes are being green.
Running from his chin and down the neck was a red line that was connected to the top portion of the image on his chest. The torso armour had rounded shoulders that had yellow lines on them. Yellow lines ran down his arms and into the yellow gauntlets he wore decorated with what looked like folded claws on the forearm.
Lastly the legs were minimally covered with segmented green armour not unlike that of a grasshopper's legs, connected by green lines to the lower section of the crest he bore.
He got into his stance, claws unfolding out. "Go, Axel!" He said before charging towards the kaijin and the three mummies while Axel went to cover so he can do what he was suppose to do.
OOO striked at the mummies as he kicked them back before blocking an attack from the third one. The female sighed as she glowed black before shifting into her Greeed form. This surprised OOO upon seeing this. "What?!" He gasped. "I sealed your Medals years ago into my tomb!"
"Thanks to a few kids, I became free once again my king…" She said as her large claw descended before striking him. "You did not have enough power to kill me like my brethren. So, as once I defeat you, I shall give that boy the desire he needs…"
She marched towards OOO until a scythe struck her, sparks casting off her skin. She stumbled back until she saw who did it. It was Specter with his rifle being in its sickle form. "Back away from him." he warned.
She tilted her head a bit. "Oh? You can change like the king?" She questioned. But it did not matter as she approached the young Rider before striking at him, but from one blow sent him flying across before he struck a rock wall, making him imbedded in it.
Specter fell to the ground, leaving an outline of his body in the rocks. He gritted his teeth as he looks up at the approaching kaijin. "Seems like this one has a bit more fight… But still weak none the less…" She said as she kicked OOO away.
Specter didn't like being called weak but after all he has done it doesn't do nothing… but… what if OOO's words were true…? Does strength really come from those you wanted to protect? He has done things he wasn't proud of, he failed to protect his little sister at that day… he got stronger for a reason. Not to just fight…. But to protect.
"I'm not weak…" he muttered, getting back up. "Getting stronger doesn't mean getting more power…"
Both OOO and the Greeed stopped as they looked at him. "Silly boy… Having power comes from being the strongest. And I can give you what you Desire of course…" She said, seducing him with this temptation.
Specter clenched his weapon. "You're wrong…." he looked up at the kaijin. "Power comes from the heart, power isn't given or rewarded, it is earned!" He continued. "Getting stronger is a reason to protect those close to you! I may have fought Ghost just to steal power but I now know that power has to be earned! You have to reach out to your soul to earn more power!"
OOO smiled upon hearing this as a faint glow appeared on him. And inside the tomb, the three medals that were left glowed as they flew out of the coffin. It flew into the forest as it quickly rushed, striking the Greeed, causing her to tumble back. "Wait.. There's another King Medal Set?" OOO gasped.
The Medals floated in front of Specter, as if awaiting his command. He made the seal, the coins glowing before a Damashii flew out from the green smoke it made. Floating there was a black hoodie with yellow sleeves, a green rim on the bottom and a red rimmed hood with what looks like tiny wings on it. On the chest was the same symbol OOO has on it. It floated down, glaring at specter with its green eyes.
"I want to reach into my soul so I can earn the strength to protect those that are close to me! I don't want to repeat what I have lost years ago!" The Damishii nodded as it flew into the driver, a new Eyecon was born. It was black with a red center and a green iris. On top was OOO's faceplate with the code 'R-12' and 'OOO' on it. He pressed it, the faint sign of the number shown before he removed the Specter Eyecon, replacing it with the newest Eyecon.
EYE!
BATCHIRIMIRO! BATCHIRIMIRO!
As this new tune plays, the Damashii of OOO, flew out as it struck the Greed, knocking it back more as smoke poured out of its armor. Specter then looked up as he pulled out the lever before pushing it back in.
KAIGAN! OOO!
MEDAL UBATTA! TAKA, TORA, BATTA!
The OOO Damashii flew down as he donned his new form. The faceplate resembled OOO's helmet while the hood remained up.
"IMPOSSIBLE!" The Greeed shouted out in anger. "How dare you… How dare you use the King's power!" She shouted out as she held out her hand and created a small black boulder before launching it at him.
Specter quickly got into the stance before jumping over the boulder and punched the Greeed with full force. He felt stronger than he realized… it was like what he said lifted off some of his doubts. Maybe it was his doubts of being weak, his crave for power was the reason to his defeat against the previous kaijin. Now… Now he can go full force he should have.
The Greeed was about to strike Specter but the latter blocked it with his forearm before punching her back then delivered a right hook to her 'jaw'. OOO then came up, claws ready as he slashed at her before standing next to him. "Ready to tag team her?" He asked.
Specter nodded as the two got into the same stances as the Greeed backs up, now seeing the two working together. Just then Specter's arms glowed yellow as the same claws appeared on him as well, surprising him. He looked at his hands for a moment before a small, unnoticeable grin appeared under his mask before going back to his calm, stoic manner.
The two charged towards her as they began to strike her multiple times, sparks casting off her skin. She wailed out in pain as she backs up, holding her chest, panting heavily. Their claws retreated as they both drew out a unique sword point twirling it and charging back at her. They both swing it as more sparks fly off, causing her to be thrown back into the ground.
She looks up at them as she quickly turns back to her human disguise. "P-Please! Don't kill me! If.. If you spare me I can give you both, your ultimate desires!" She said as her eyes glowed a bit. She then looked at OOO. "I can help you restore your friend!" She then turned to Specter - OOO Damashii. "And revive your sister!"
The two were quiet until Specter spoke up, "No one…" he brought his blade back. "Talks about her… I have to earn it with my own hands not from desires."
Her eyes shrink in fear as she gets up and starts to make a run for it. OOO turned to him as they both nod. OOO took out his scanner and scanned the medals as Specter pulled out the lever and pushed it in.
SCANNING CHARGE!
DAI-KAIGAN! OOO! OMEGA DRIVE!
The two jumped in the air, their feet aimed at the fleeing kaijin and went through three colored rings until their kicks came in contact with the Greeed. She screamed in agony as an explosion erupted from their kicks, her three black medals fly up into the air, static surging out as they cracked and exploded into bits. They then came to a stop from the other side of the explosion, finished with the enemy.
Specter and OOO stood back up and turned to face each other. "What will you do now…?" Specter asked.
"Well, I'm still your substitute teacher for a few days. So, until that time is up, I will still be teaching." OOO replied.
The two were about to walk away until Specter stopped. "You five better come out of the bushes." he said. OOO was confused at first until Team RWBY and Cody fell out in a pile with an 'oof'.
"Hehe…. Thought for sure our cover was good enough…." Cody chuckled slightly.
"How did you know we were there?. Ruby asked as Specter pointed to the face plate's eyes.
"The visor…" he answered before walking towards Weiss, reaching his hand out. She smiled as she took his hand as she was helped up by him.
"Ugh… How much did you see?" OOO asked, scratching his head.
"Seeing the fact you actually became OOO." Cody smiled, excited to see the armor up close. "Are you really the king?"
OOO chuckled, rubbing the back of his helmet. "More like… his inheritor…" he answered.
Blake walked up to him with a slight smile. "Say, why did you keep this a secret from everyone Professor?" Yang asked him.
"It's a bit of a long story," OOO explained. "However aren't you five past curfew?" They all flinched as they tried to each think of a new excuse on why they're out here. Each one more ridiculous than the last!
Specter huffed before turning his head to Weiss. He reached through his Damashii coat and handed her the newest rose. "Here…" He said. She happily took it as she peck his cheek before heading back to her dorm first.
Specter walked away as well in another direction to avoid anyone from seeing him. "You know brother, she is a nice person…" The pink light glowed from his pocket, giggling. He was quiet from hearing that, pretending to ignore his sister's comment.
As the next day rose up, Axel was relaxing in his room. So far, only he and Jaune were there. He was toying with his scroll, trying to find more about their new professor. But as he did, he started to notice Jaune having too much work… Even for a student. He looked down slightly before back up and walking over to Jaune, pen ready. "... need help…?"
Jaune looked up at him, a bit surprised as he turned his head, looking around the room. "You… You're talking to me.. Right?" he asked, making sure this wasn't some dream or trick.
"I… know what it was like to… be weak." he said.
Jaune lowered his head slightly. "Yeah yeah… I know.. I'm not the best leader…" He sighed. "Not like how Pyrrha is, or Ruby…"
"Jaune… giving up shows you are weak…" he said. "Don't doubt yourself… never doubt yourself being weak…"
Jaune looked back up at him. Surprised by the…. 'Small' compliment. "But… how do I get stronger? One where I.. can help defend.. Instead of being the one defended?" He asked.
Axel pointed to where his own heart would be. "Reach into your soul… remind yourself to why you want to protect others… to not doubt yourself. To show what you are capable of."
Jaune smiles lightly. "I see… Um… Yeah. I do need help." He said.
Axel nodded before he began to help out Jaune, unknowing that the other three members were watching what occurred. Smiles came across their faces as they leave them be, not wanting to disturb the moment. Although, in Axel's pocket a slight light appeared.
"He finally talked!" Nora said to Ren and Pyrrha.
"I wonder what got into him? He seems a bit… better?" Ren said as the gang walked through the halls.
"You're right about that, Ren." Pyrrha nodded. "Something must have happened."
Nora had a giddy grin, "Yay! Operation: Get Axel talking is complete!"
"When did we make a plan?" Pyrrha asked her.
"Since now!" she said, the two sweatdropped.
A/N: Heya Minna! Hope you enjoyed the new chapter? ^^ Welp, Seems the cat is now out of the bag here. So, I will admit something. The past Riders in here do exist. Sides from a few changes. And no, not all the Rider Eyecon's will be featured. Only 6 for both Riders. And I can't tell you all which is coming? But I will say, they will get 3 in this Vol, and 3 on Vol 2. ^^;
But get ready, cause now that this part is done, the next chapter will go back to Rwby and the Ghost series. And no. Necrom will not be in this Vol. He won't appear till Vol 2 okay?
So, untl then, later minna!