Hello everyone, back with another chapter. Before starting, I did see some people displeased with my choice of wording in the last chapter on certain subjects. I may try and go back to make it more consistent and to better understand the scale between the two parties. Hopefully it'll made more clear here too. Anyway, I hope y'all are also enjoying Volume 9 as much as I am. With that said, I hope you enjoy this chapter too.
The door to the Storm Border's bridge opened. The sounds of the ship caught the attention of some familiar faces. Everyone gawked at the interior of the command center. They noticed a bunch of strange identical looking sailors who manned the different stations. One of which looked over to notice them.
"Guys, Ritsuka and Mash are back," one of the Nemo Marines called out.
The Marines cheered, happy to see their friends returned safely. The Marines swarmed the group, causing Ruby and her friends to freak out. It was like seeing double, or triple, or quadruple. Was there even a number for how many there were? Although strange, the Marines welcomed their new guests, asking questions to them like curious children. Among the crowd of similar faces, a different looking one appeared.
"Ah, Ms. Fujumaru, Ms. Kyrielight, and Ms. Scáthach, welcome back. Good to see you all safe and sound," Holmes greeted.
"Yes," Goredolf said. "Despite your questionable actions, we are glad to see you managed to make it back safely."
"It's good to back," Ritsuka said.
The detective looked past Ritsuka and took notice of her new friends as they chatted with the Nemo Marines. "These must be your new friends."
"Yep," Ritsuka replied. "This here is Ruby and all of her friends."
Holmes chuckled. "Ha ha ha. Well, Ruby and all her friends, now that we finally meet face to face, allow us to properly introduce ourselves. I am Sherlock Holmes, Chaldea's Administrative Advisor. It's a pleasure to meet you all."
"And I am Goredolf Musik, Chaldea's Director." The director greeted in a proud manner.
Ruby went up and shook both of their hands, "I'm Ruby. Ruby Rose. This is my team: Weiss, Blake, and my sister Yang. We're known as Team RWBY. Let me be the first to say thank you for allowing us to come to Atlas with you on your ship."
Jaune also went up and shook Goredolf's hand. "I'm Jaune, sir. Jaune Arc. My team consists of Nora and Ren here. And this is our friend, Oscar."
"Well, I must say you are quite the polite bunch," Goredolf replied. "Even though you tried to kill Ritsuka not even 24 hours ago."
There was a bit of hostility in Goredolf's tone. Which was rightfully placed though, the loss of Ritsuka would essentially mean the end of Chaldea and Pan Human History. Ruby and Jaune laughed nervously knowing that they were guilty.
Holmes couldn't help but laugh. "Now, now Director, that's water under the bridge now."
Ritsuka clapped her hands together. "Well, how about I show y'all around the Storm Border?"
Ruby nodded. "That sounds like fun! This place must of a ton of stuff to see."
Before she could run off, Goredolf stopped her. "Hold on, missy. You still have to give us a full report from these last few days."
Ritsuka groaned. "Awww, but I want to show everyone the Storm Border."
"Don't worry, Ritsuka. I'll be more than happy to show them around for you," Captain Nemo said while approaching the group.
"Captain!" Ritsuka shouted in excitement.
"Greetings, newcomers. I am Captain Nemo. You all can just call me Captain. I will be happy to help in showing around my vessel, the Storm Border."
"Nice to meet ya, Captain. Lead the way," Ruby said.
Nemo smiled. "Oh. Forgive me. I, personally, won't be guiding you."
Ruby and the other had confused looks on their faces. What did Nemo mean by that?
"Marines! Front and center!"
On command, the thirteen Nemo Marines that once surrounded Ruby and her friends now came up to the Captain. They formed a single file line and stood tall while saluting their leader. "Yes, Captain!"
"Marines, I need two of you to give Ritsuka's new friends a tour of the Storm Border. And make it snappy. Don't lollygag, okay?"
"Aye aye, Captain!" The identical looking Nemos replied.
Two of Nemo Marines went back up to Ruby and her friends and gestured the group to follow them.
"Okay, I can't ignore it anymore," Weiss snapped. "Where those like a bunch of clones or something?"
"In the simplest terms, yes," Nemo replied. "While it is a bit more complicated than that, I'll skip the extra details as that would be a whole other explanation."
Weiss was still confused. "Right."
The former heiress sighed. "I don't think I'm ever going to get used to these weird, new things."
"Don't worry Weiss. You will with time. Trust me," Ritsuka replied.
The group laughed at Ritsuka's remark. With everything settled, the Marines gestured again for everyone to follow them.
"Come on, follow us," the first Marine called out.
"We'll show you all the cool things the Storm Border has to offer," the second Marine added.
Ruby looked at Ritsuka. "Guess we'll see you in a bit."
Ritsuka sighed. "Right."
Ruby's group followed the Nemo Marines out the door from the bridge and down the halls of the Storm Border, where ocean below could be seen thanks to all the windows giving a clear view of the icy blue waters. As they were walking, Ruby noticed that someone was missing from their group. She looked around but found no sign of them.
"Uncle Qrow?" she said to herself.
Back near the bridge, Qrow had managed to separate himself from the others. He didn't feel like joining the party so he decided he would just hang back instead. He leaned back on a wall and watched out the side of the ship with a disgruntled look on his face.
With a moment to himself, he reflected on everything that had just happened recently. Especially what had happened with Ozpin. He was confused. Not too long ago, Qrow believed that he was one of Ozpin's most trusted allies. And yet, despite his loyalty, Ozpin was still keeping secrets from him. From everyone, for that matter. And it wasn't some minor detail either. It completely changed the fight against Salem. What point was there of fighting if she couldn't be killed? Did Summer really die for nothing?
Many more questions flooded his head. He wanted to drown it all out. He pulled out his flask and took a swig. Nothing but air touched his lips. Realizing that his flask was empty, he held it upside down for a bit and saw nothing pour out. Now useless, Qrow dropped the flask to the ground. The metal container bounced a few times with several clanks before sliding for a bit afterwards. It laid there for a few seconds before being picked up by someone.
Qrow glanced over and saw a man staring at him with the flask in his hand. He had tan skin and white hair. He was wearing black skin tight body armor with a red coat over it. He didn't say a word. The only sounds that could be heard were the humming of the ship and sounds of the man's shoes as he approached.
He extended his hand out and presented the flask to Qrow. "You dropped this."
Qrow didn't say a word. He took the flask from Emiya's hand and held onto it without so much as a thank you. With their business done, Qrow went back to blankly staring out the windows again.
Emiya crossed his arms. "Not much a socialite, are you?"
No response.
Emiya joined Qrow and leaned against the wall as well. "Hmph. Can't say I blame you. Especially because-"
"Look pal, if you're here trying to make friends, I highly advise against it. Believe me. I'm not the kind of person you want to be friends with." Qrow interrupted, trying to shove Emiya off.
"Hmph. I don't misunderstand. I just prefer to understand the type of people that my Master will be working with for the time being. From what I've seen, it's a man who's been down on his luck most of his life. Someone who feels like he's a curse on the whole world and those around him. Did I get that down pretty well?"
Qrow grumbled. "Was it that obvious?"
"Yes. You quite reek of it, figuratively…and literally."
Qrow chuckled a bit. He couldn't even imagine just how pathetic he's probably looked these past few days. His nieces were probably disappointed with him, no doubt. "Heh. I guess when you put it that way…"
While still looking outward, Qrow decided to ask a question. "You said Master just now. I take it you're one of those Heroic Spirits Ruby and her friends keep talking about? What's your story?"
Emiya smirked. "My story is one of no importance in the history of our world. It is merely a story about a man with rotten luck who was betrayed by his own ideals."
Qrow looked at his flask. "Well damn. If I weren't all out, I'd offer you some."
The two chuckled a bit before Emiya spoke up. "I guess, in a twisted way, we aren't all that different."
Qrow grunted. "Hmph, I suppose. So what do they call you?"
Emiya turned his head to Qrow. "You can just call me Emiya."
"Emiya, huh? Alright, the names Qrow."
"Qrow." Emiya got up from the wall and began to walk away. "I look forward to working with you…Qrow."
"Leaving so soon?" Qrow asked.
Emiya stopped in his tracks. "I thought you weren't looking for friends."
"Doesn't mean I can't enjoy a little chit-chat every now and again."
Emiya stayed silent for a moment. "Very well then."
When the Nemo Marines had finished showing Ruby and the gang the Storm Border, they headed back to the bridge where Ritsuka was still currently at. The air was filled with chatter as everyone discussed their favorite parts about the Storm Border or the technology that Chaldea posessed.
"This place is so cool!" Ruby exclaimed. "I really wanna try out that simulator."
"Me too," Yang cracked her left knuckles. "I wanna see just how tough Chaldea technology really is."
Blake chuckled from seeing Yang so excited. "Gee Yang, I don't think we've seen you this hyped up in a while."
Yang shrugged. "Can you blame me? Something about this place just has me pumped up."
Ruby turned to Weiss. "How about you, Weiss? Anything that caught your interest?"
"Not really," Weiss answered. "Although, I will admit that the technological feats this Chaldea organization has reached is most certainly impressive. It's a little scary, honestly."
A smug grin formed on Ruby's face. "Would you say it's better than Atlas'?"
"That remains to be seen."
The three girls burst out laughing. Weiss rolled her eyes playfully, knowing that they were teasing her.
Behind Team RWBY, Team JNPR was also having their own conversation.
"What did ya think guys?" Nora asked as she skipped around her two teammates. "Ain't this place pretty neat?"
"Yes. Ritsuka and her friends are definitely well equipped." Ren replied.
"Now I really feel bad," Jaune commented.
Nora put her arm around him. "Hey, worry about it Jaune. You only proposed killing our new friends and potentially unleashing the wrath of her Servants on us. It's no big deal."
Jaune looked annoyed at Nora's big, dumb grin. "Thanks, Nora. That makes me feel a lot better."
Ren and Nora started laughing. Jaune quickly joined them. Meanwhile, Oscar smiled, seeing that everyone was having a good time. As the rest of them chatted, he started to think to himself.
"Ozpin," he thought. "I'm not sure if you've listening to everything happening these past few days. Look, I know it's been…rough. But you should know that things are finally starting to look up. We've met some great people and they're giving us a helping hand. I've seen what they can do. They're strong. Really strong. Our new friend, Ritsuka, said she's faced strong beings like Salem before. Maybe they're the missing piece we've needed. I really think you should meet them."
Oscar waited for a response. Nothing. There was only the silence that echoed through his head. He still couldn't feel Ozpin's power either. He sighed in disappointment. He mumbled to himself, "Well, it was worth a shot."
Ruby's gang arrived back at the bridge. They saw Ritsuka, Mash and Scáthach talking to Goredolf and Holmes. Ruby noticed a new face among them as well. It appeared to be a young girl. She looked over at them and smiled. "Ah, looks your friends are back. Hello there, I'm Leonardo Da Vinci, Chaldea's Technical Advisor and unparalleled genius."
"So you're Da Vinci. It's nice to finally meet you," Ruby greeted.
"Mmm, likewise. Well, now that you're all here, we'll go ahead and leave you be for now, Ritsuka."
The sigh of relief coming from Ritsuka could be heard throughout the ship. Now free from reporting to Goredolf and the others, she went up to Ruby and her friends.
"So what do you think of the Storm Border?" Ritsuka asked.
Ruby's excitement suddenly burst from the seams. "It's so cool! Do you think we could use the simulator? Maybe get some training in?"
Da Vinci overheard their conversation. "Actually, that sounds like a great idea. If you don't mind, I'd love to see how you all fight. Ritsuka tells us you're all quite skilled."
"You sure you should be away for so long, Da Vinci?" Ritsuka asked.
Da Vinci nodded. "It'll be fine. Nemo Professor is watching my position right now anyway. Besides, it's not like we're going to be in combat for the time being. Anyway, let's get going."
At the simulator, Da Vinci pulled up a digital panel and started typing into it. Everyone watched quietly as her fingers quickly moved between the buttons. None of it made any sense to anyone besides the young genius.
"So," Da Vinci said as she continued to type on the panel. "While Ritsuka was away and the Storm Border was being repaired, I took it upon myself to take the data from the Grimm we'd encountered and add it into the simulator's data bank."
Yang was intrigued. "Are you saying you can simulate any Grimm now?"
Da Vinci shook her head. "Not any Grimm. Just the ones we've encountered so far. Even so, we did run into a fair amount of Grimm while there. Some new variants as well once you left, Ritsuka. I'm confident y'all won't be starved for variety."
"That's pretty impressive," Blake commented.
A proud look formed on Ritsuka's face. "That's our Da Vinci."
Da Vinci had a smug look after hearing Ritsuka's compliment. "Okay. Almost there and…done."
After pressing one last key, the environment inside the simulator began to change. Everyone's heads began to whip back and forth as they tried to take in everything that was happening. What was once a large, empty room now had buildings and streets representing a fairly large town. Mash and Ritsuka quickly recognized the design to be similar to that of the London Singularity.
"This is incredible!" Ruby shouted.
"Did you just create a whole town?" Jaune asked.
Da Vinci nodded. "Indeed. And with a little of Chaldea's Magecraft knowledge, this room is now a lot bigger than it once was. So you'll have a lot of space to fight."
"You mean your magic can make a space seem bigger on the inside than it is outside?" Jaune could hardly believe what he was hearing.
"Mmmhmm. Pretty cool, huh?" Da Vinci replied.
"Cool? This is freakin' awesome," Nora shouted, her voice echoing throughout.
"Oh, and don't worry about being rough. Since it's all generated through Magecraft, feel free to go all out."
An excited grin grew on Yang's face as she put her two fists together. "You don't have to tell me twice."
Da Vinci was glad to see everyone pumped up. "Alright, split up into two teams. When I give the signal, the Grimm will spawn in. Whoever defeats the most Grimm in 10 minutes wins. And to make it more interesting, you'll each have a civilian you'll need to protect in the form of Mash and Ritsuka."
Ritsuka was caught off guard by Da Vinci's words. "Wait. Why am I being volunteered to participate?"
"Don't worry senpai, it'll be fun," Mash replied.
Ruby gave Ritsuka a thumbs up. "Yeah, you'll be under our protection. You're in good hands."
Ritsuka shrugged. "Guess it can't be helped."
"Also, no fighting back, you two," Da Vinci called to Ritsuka and Mash. "Remember, you're helpless civilians."
Ritsuka waved back, indicating she understood Da Vinci's rules. With everything set, the two teams took their positions. Team RWBY and Ritsuka were on one side of the town while the temporary Team ORNJ and Mash were on the other.
"And begin," Da Vinci said.
With the push of a button, Grimm began spawning within the simulated town. They growled, howled, and roared before honing in on the two teams. Team RWBY was shocked at first by their numbers, but quickly regained themselves. The four entered their fighting stances, ready for the incoming horde.
Ruby cocked her gun. "Okay. Yang, you're with me."
Yang nodded. "Got it."
She then turned to her other teammates. "Weiss, Blake, stay back, cover our rear, and keep Ritsuka safe."
"Right," Blake replied.
"Understood," Weiss followed.
With their orders in place, the two sisters engaged with the Grimm in front of them. Ruby used Cresent Rose to slash through the Grimm. The shrarpness of her scythe cut through them with ease. Yang delivered a flurry of punches and kicks to her enemies. She dodged an incoming Beowolf's slash and countered with several successive punches to the Grimm's stomach, finishing with a heavier punch that sent the Grimm crashing into a wall before vanishing.
Ruby spotted several Sphinxes attempting to dive bomb them from above. She transformed Cresent Rose and began firing at the oncoming Grimm. One by one, the Grimm were eliminated from the air. Ruby's high caliber bullets easily pierced through the Sphinx's armored head. Yang stayed close to her sister, keeping her protected as she took care of the Grimm above. She pummeled any Grimm that dared to get close.
Meanwhile, Ruby's prediction had come true, Grimm were swarming from behind as well. Blake fired with her pistol from a distance then switched to her swords as soon as the Grimm closed in. She occasionally made double takes at Rituska to make sure no Grimm were attempting to attack her. For the most part, Ritsuka remained in good hands thanks to Blake and Weiss' teamwork.
As Weiss fired ice projectiles at the Grimm, she noticed a Boarbatusk in the distance spinning up to charge the group. She quickly reacted and decided to fight fire with fire. She stabbed Myrtenaster into the ground and summoned a Boarbatusk of her own. The summoned Boarbatusk immediately began charging up its own attack. When the Grimm began charging, Weiss pointed her rapier at the Grimm and her summon took off as well. The two Boarbatusks charged at each other with great speed. As the two collided, they were both sent flying back from the force. The Grimm landed on its back, vulnerable to attack. Seeing her chance, Weiss jumped into the air and positioned her rapier down towards the exposed Boarbatusk.
"HAAAAAA!" Weiss yelled as Myrtenaster impaled the Grimm's exposed stomach.
The Boarbatusk squealed before disappearing. Weiss quickly regained herself and looked back to see Blake slowly getting overwhelmed. Blake slashed at the oncoming Grimm, but their numbers were quickly proving to be too much for the Faunus alone.
"Ritsuka, stay close to me," Blake ordered.
"Don't need to tell me twice," Ritsuka replied.
In need of help, Weiss used her Glyphs to quickly dash back to Blake and Ritsuka's side. As she slid along her Glyphs, she slammed Myrtenaster into the ground again. This time, a large wall of ice formed behind the Faunus and Master. Large icicles protruded from the wall of ice, protecting Blake and Ritsuka and impaling any Grimm unfortunate enough to be in vicinity when created.
Ritsuka watched the two girls fight off the Grimm. It wasn't much different than when fighting through the singularities, especially when she first started. Only this time, she couldn't help out with any spells from her Mystic Code. Not that they needed help in the first place.
On the other side of the simulated city, Mash was in the same predicament. She watched helplessly from the sidelines as Team ORNJ did their best to keep her safe while eliminating as many Grimm as possible.
"This must be how Senpai feels," she thought to herself.
She remembered back during the first Singularities how much Ritsuka would usually just watch as the Servants they allied with would handle all of the fighting. The Ritsuka now was a far cry from Ritsuka she knew back then. She was a lot more experienced as a Master than before. The proof was in her battles against the Cryptors. She was able to hold their own against what was once Chaldea's best Masters. Mash smiled. She was proud of how far Ritsuka had come and was happy to continue following her.
"Look out, Mash!" someone had called out, interrupting her train of thought.
Mash snapped out of it and looked up to see a Beowolf about to attack her. Mash gasped, as she prepared to jump about of the way. That proved unnecessary, though, as Jaune jumped in at the last second and protected her with his own shield. He used his strength to push the Beowolf back, which was followed by a barrage of bullets from Ren's dual pistols.
Mash then felt a hand on her shoulder. She look back to see Nora giving her a smile.
"Don't go daydreaming on us now," Nora teased before heading back into the fray of Grimm.
"R-right, I'm sorry," Mash stuttered, now red from embarrassment.
Their attention was turned towards another group of Grimm closing in on them. A mix of Beowolfs, Sphinxs, small Nevermores, Boarbatusks, and even a Goliath were all charging towards them.
"Come on, we gotta keep moving so we don't get surrounded," Jaune ordered.
"Right," everyone replied.
The group began moving as one towards a more clear area of the city. Mash followed in between all of them. Jaune stayed in front. Nora and Ren were on her sides. Oscar was close behind. As they turned at a street corner, they were greeted by a Goliath. The beast let out a loud trumpet before briskly charging towards the group.
"Is that…an elephant Grimm?" Mash asked in surprise.
"It's called a Goliath," Ren replied. "Don't worry, we'll take care of it though."
"Okay Ren, Nora, with me. Oscar, keep watch on Mash," Jaune ordered.
"No problem," Oscar replied.
Team JNR went to intercept the Goliath while Oscar remained to protect Mash from any Grimm that happened to come by. Luckily, most of the horde was joining the Golaith with Team JNR. Mash and Oscar were mostly left at peace, except for the occasional straggler. Oscar's training bore fruit as he proved to be able handle them on his own. Something he never would've expected to be doing several months ago.
Back near the edge of the simulator, Da Vinci, Scáthach, and Marie all watched Team RWBY and Team ORNJ from a group of monitors as the two teams worked together to fight the Grimm. Scáthach was especially invested. Her focus was primarily on Ruby, wanting to see how she handled herself in battle along with her teammates. Da Vinci glanced over and noticed the Celtic Queen's intense stare.
"They certainly are something, aren't they?" Marie asked proudly.
Da Vinci nodded. "Yes, they're all quite fantastic. I'm impressed by their skills already."
As the three continued spectating, footsteps were heard approaching them from behind. Da Vinci turned back to see Emiya and Qrow had entered the simulator. As the two approached, Qrow's eyes widened in awe from what he was seeing. These Chaldea folks managed to continue surprising him.
Da Vinci smiled. "Ah, gentlemen. How nice of you two to join us."
Emiya shook his head. "I will not be staying, Da Vinci. I was just showing Qrow here where everyone one else was."
The two nodded at each other before Emiya walked off, vanishing into his Spirit Form as he did. With Emiya gone, Qrow turned his attention to the monitor, specifically the one that showed Ruby and her team. He watched his niece proudly. He looked over and noticed Scáthach watching her as well.
"She's good, isn't she?" He asked.
Scáthach glanced over at Qrow. "Yes, she is certainly talented. Your daughter?"
"Niece, actually," Qrow corrected. "I trained her myself."
Scáthach raised an eyebrow. "Is that so? Well, she has certainly been taught well."
A small sense of pride came over Qrow.
"However, she still has a lot to learn," Scáthach added.
A horn went off in the simulator, ending the battle. The two teams caught their breathes and complimented each other on a job well done.
"Excellent job to all of you," Da Vinci said over the intercom. "After tallying up the scores, it looks like Team RWBY is our winners."
Team RWBY cheered in their corner. Ritsuka gave Ruby and her team high fives.
"You were all incredible," Risuka complimented.
"See? I told you that you were in good hands," Ruby said.
Meanwhile on the otherside, Team ORNJ was still recovering from their battle. All the while Mash was clapping for all of them.
"You were all fantastic as well," Mash clapped.
"Thanks Mash," Jaune replied in a breathy voice. "Man that Goliath was tough."
"Even so, you all did well."
Both teams returned back to where Da Vinci and the others were waiting. Once everyone had returned, Da Vinci complimented everyone on the mock battle.
"Excellent work to everyone," Chaldea's self proclaimed genius began. "While both teams did incredible against the Grimm, Team RWBY proved victorious."
Ritsuka clapped. "You four were awesome!"
Ruby rubbed the back of her head. "Aw this was nothing. This is what we train for after all."
Ritsuka's cheers were cut off by Scáthach who walked past her and began approaching Team RWBY. "Scáthach?" the young Master questioned.
Scáthach didn't reply, she only continued walking towards Ruby and her team. Team RWBY noticed the woman coming up to them and went silent. Scáthach stood in front of them and stared for a few seconds, as if pondering something while she did. No one was sure what exactly was going on in that battle hungry woman's head. After a few moments, she smiled.
"Yes, you four fought brilliantly out there," Scáthach complimented. "So much so that you have piqued my interest. You four are talented, but you still have potential to grow even more. That is why I have a little offer for you four."
Ruby could see where this was going and it was exciting her. "Ms. Scáthach, are you…?"
She nods. "If you train with me, I will make you into the finest Huntresses Remnant has ever seen. But heed my warning. My training does not come easy. I will push you to your limits and more. Even your Aura will not protect you from what I have in store for you. So what do you say? Will you four accept training under me?"
Ruby turned back to her teammates. The other girls looked just as excited as their leader. They had recalled Ritsuka mentioning that Scáthach had taught other legendary warriors before. In addition to what they had already seen her do, she was undoubtedly strong. Weiss, Blake, and Yang gave gestures of approval, which made their answer clear.
Ruby turned back to Scáthach. "Ms. Scáthach, we accept."
A smile grew on the teacher's face. "Excellent. We'll begin immediately."
Scáthach's words caught Ruby off guard. "Right now? After we just had an exhausting battle."
Weiss agreed. "Yeah, plus our we need time for our Auras to-"
Scáthach slammed her spear on the ground, causing the girls to jump. "Your enemies will not care about what condition you are in! Would Salem or the Grimm let you rest and recharge before you fight them? No, they will try and take advantage of you when you are your most vulnerable. Come! We will train now!"
Team RWBY started to think that maybe this was a bad idea, but this is what they agreed to. Scáthach had warned them that she would be tough. They never expected her to be this fierce right away. They grabbed their weapons and prepared for another fight.
Scáthach requested Da Vinci to change the simulation into an open meadow, which she obliged. As Team RWBY and Scáthach prepared, Da Vinci leaned over to Ritsuka.
"Is really such a good idea?" Da Vinci asked. "We both know how Scáthach can be when it comes to her training."
Ritsuka recalled the times she had trained with Scáthach. Many of which almost resulted in certain death. But against people who can actually fight, surely it would end batter, right?
"They'll be fine. I hope." Ritsuka replied. "Besides, it's not like we can stop her once she's set her mind on it. Unless you want me to waste another Command Seal."
Da Vinci sighed. "No, you're right. It can't be helped. We'll just have to sit back and hope this turns out for the best. Even if it does go bad, Nurse Nemo can surely patch them up."
"That's the spirit Da Vinci," Ritsuka joked.
Out on the field Scáthach and Team RWBY took fighting positions. Scáthach stood with her spear in hand, ready to strike at a moment's notice. It glistened in the automated light of the simulator. Team RWBY all had their weapons drawn as well. They looked a bit worried, but they had no plans of backing down, especially since they had already agreed to do this. If they could perform well against her, there's no telling how much they could grow.
"So how do we do this?" Ruby asked. "Just go one-on-one?"
"No!" Scáthach yelled. "I want you to come at me all at once! All four of you!"
Ruby was taken aback. "Are you sure? I mean, 4 vs. 1 is a bit much, don't you think?"
Scáthach laughed. "I assure you, Ms. Rose, it is not."
Ruby shrugged. "If you say so. Let's go, team!"
On her command, Team RWBY charged at Scáthach. Ruby and Blake went in first. The two delivered a wave of slashes and thrusts from Crescent Rose and Gambol Shroud. Despite their best attempts, Scáthach blocked, parried, and dodged every attack they made. Scáthach parried the two girls' weapons, and with a single thrust of her spear, were sent flying back from the mere force of her strike.
Weiss and Yang immediately tagged in for the other girls and began a counterattack on Scáthach. The two of them dished out their own variety of attacks at the Celtic Queen. However, Scáthach's strength and speed still proved to be far superior, as the results ended up more of the same. Scáthach knocked Weiss off balance with her spear and sent her back with a kick, leaving Yang alone with her new trainer.
Yang wasn't going to surrender, even if it was just her for now. She charged at Scáthach with a flurry of punches and kicks. Yet, she still could not land a single hit on Scáthach. Every dodge and block reminded her of when she first fought Neo. Despite her annoyance, she tried her best not to let her frustration get the best of her.
"What's wrong Ms. Xiao Long?" Scáthach taunted. "You look troubled. Annoyed that you can't hit your target?"
Yang growled. "Not. At. ALL!"
Yang wound up one last punch, which Scáthach stopped with her spear. The force could definitely be felt by both of them, which is why Yang gasped when she saw Scáthach still standing firm. Scáthach smiled before surprising Yang with an attack from her spear that was so fast that she didn't even have time to react to it. The blonde was then sent Yang flying back towards her recovering teammates with a second blow. The four girls slowly recovered themselves from Scáthach's attacks.
"She's really fast," Blake said, catching her breath.
"And strong," Weiss added, while rubbing her stomach.
"But we're not giving up, right?" Ruby asked, already knowing their answer.
"Right," the three replied at once.
"We'll just have to restrategize," Ruby suggested.
"What do you suggest?" Weiss asked.
Ruby began formulating a plan to try and get an edge against their trainer. Scáthach did find their plotting charming, but knew it would be for naught.
"Enough talk, ladies!" Scáthach called out. "Show me your fighting spirit!"
Team RWBY looked back at Scáthach, who was getting impatient with them. The four broke off and began their new form of attack. Blake and Yang charged at Scáthach from two sides while Ruby and Weiss followed along at a distance to fire projectiles.
Rituska continued watching from a distance. She knew Ruby and her team were skilled at fighting Grimm, but taking on Heroic Spirits was a whole different feat. Despite their optimism, it was always clear to the young Master who would win this battle. She could only hope that such a battle hungry warrior would go easy on them. Scáthach meant well, but she could be extreme at times. She had firsthand experience on that front.
As she watched on, despite her seemingly harsh attacks, Scáthach was clearly holding back on them. She had to have been. It was the same from when Scáthach had trained her. While she was put in rather dangerous situations, she never truly felt like she was in any actual danger.
While she always talked about them being Servant and Master only, their relationship quickly changed soon after she had arrived in Chaldea. Perhaps Scáthach couldn't help it. Maybe it was some instinct in her to make heroes out of potential candidates. Whatever the reason, she saw something in Team RWBY and wanted to bring it out. Ritsuka was confident that they would come out stronger because of this, even if they did end up leaving with a few bruises afterwards.
Back on the field, Ruby's previous strategy proved ineffective against the likes of Scáthach. They had decided to go all in with everything they add.
"Nice attempt ladies," Scáthach complimented. "But such a strategy won't work on me."
Scáthach slammed her spear on the ground, creating a strong shockwave that knocked all four girls into the air. Before they could recover themselves, Scáthach rapidly swung her spear, delivering many slashes at the four girls. Her speed was so great, that they were unable to defend themselves against her attacks. She then pulled back her spear for her final attack.
"It's over," Was all Scáthach said before thrusting her crimson spear one last time, sending all of Team RWBY to the ground.
The four girls cried out as they were sent flying towards the floor. As they landed, they piled up on top of each other. Their Auras flickered one after another, indicating that they had been depeleted. Scáthach landed back on the ground and twirled her spear around before resting it on the ground again.
"Those glows just now," Scáthach said. "If memory serves correctly, they mean that your Auras have been used up, meaning you can no longer battle, correct?"
"That's…that's correct," Ruby answered in a heavily breathy voice, removing herself from the pile that was her teammates.
Scáthach sighed. "A pity, and just when we were getting warmed up."
"That was a warm up?" Weiss asked under her breath.
"Well, no matter," Scáthach continued. "That will do for now. Unless you wish to keep going."
Ruby shook her head. "I think we're good for now teach. If that's okay."
Scáthach made her spear vanish. "Very well then. If you wish to train more with me, do not hesitate to ask."
With their training session done, Scáthach walked off.
Ritsuka walked up to Ruby. "You all okay?"
Ruby nodded. "Yeah, we're fine."
"Is her training always like this?" Blake asked.
"Yeah," Ritsuka laughed nervously. "One time she made me dodge a rain of spears all on my own. And I can't do all the cool flippy stuff that you four can do."
The thought made Yang shiver. "Sheesh, and I thought we had it rough."
Ritsuka chuckled. "Anyway, I know her training methods can be…extreme, but she does mean it when she says she sees potential in you. She tends to have a keen eye for it. If I were y'all, I would continue training with her whenever you can."
Weiss dusted herself off. "Despite the heavy butt-whooping we just received, I do agree with Ritsuka."
"Me too," Blake added. "She's strong and training with someone like her could prove beneficial to our combat skills."
Ruby turned back to Ritsuka. "Guess we've got another lesson planned."
"My, that was quite the battle," Da Vinci said while she and the others approached them. "I hope Scáthach didn't beat you all too badly."
Ruby shook her head. "We're all fine. We just need to rest and let our Auras replenish."
"I see," Da Vinci replied. "In that case, how about you take everyone to the Galley, Ritsuka? I'm sure Nemo Bakery could whip y'all up some snacks for everyone. You've all earned it."
Da Vinci's suggestion excited the Master. "Once again, Da Vinci has another great idea. Follow me, everyone!"
As everyone else mingled, Qrow placed his hand on Ruby's shoulder and gave her a supportive smile. "You did good, kid. You all held out for quite a while out there against a foe much stronger than you."
Ruby smiled. "Thanks Uncle Qrow."
"So…would you say she's a better teacher than me?"
Ruby giggled while punching him playfully. "Stop. I'm not playing favorites."
Qrow couldn't help but laugh with his niece. "Can't blame a man for being curious."
As the group walked off, Scáthach saw them off from a distance. She watched as Ritsuka walked along side Mash, Ruby, and the rest of her team and friends. She couldn't help but smile, seeing her Master so happy after everything she had been through.
"Your first lesson was a bit extreme, don't you think?" a voice asked.
Scáthach looked back to see Emiya behind her. "Oh? You think so? Would you like to find out for yourself?"
The thought of fighting Scáthach wasn't pleasant to Emiya. "I'll pass. By the way, why did you decide to train those girls? "
Scáthach looked down, thinking for a moment. "This world is cruel, Emiya. Imagine going on knowing that those you know and love could be taken from you at a moment's notice by monsters far stronger than you. It's no way for a human to live. Our world may have had its own flaws, but it never spawned an apex predator such as the Grimm that it had to live in constant fear of. They may be nothing to us, but to others, they are something to live in constant fear of. That's why this world needs fine warriors to protect it. I believe those four girls will be key in doing so."
"And you think they could become strong enough to defeat this Salem?"
"Perhaps. Though if what they say is true, then alternative plans will have to be made."
Emiya raised an eyebrow. "Are you suggesting fighting her yourself?"
A smile grew on Scáthach's face. "Can you blame me?"
Emiya laughed. "Ha! Ha! Ha! I suppose not. Especially for a battle hungry warrior such as yourself."
Near the outskirts of Argus, Adam had his sights set on an approaching Beowolf. The creature charged at him without any remorse. With a single slash, the Grimm was slayed, disintegrating moments afterwards. With his target defeated, he sheathed his sword away. He turned his attention back to Koyanskaya, who was watching him from a short distance.
"There, are you satisfied?" The Faunus asked, looking impatient.
Koyanskaya didn't respond, she only stood there processing the information she had learned about the Grimm. Adam clenched onto his sword even tighter. Her lack of cooperation was starting to test the man's patience. He walked in a small circle, growing more and more frustrated as the fox girl stood there without answering.
"I told you this was a waste of time!" he burst out saying. "Every Grimm I killed evaporated like I said they would and the ones you tried to capture died like they always do. What more do you need to know?"
Koyanskaya continued to remain silent. Her thinking was interrupted by the growls of another Beowolf that jumped out of the bushes. Adam attempted to pull out his sword again to protect her, but his actions proved unnecessary. He stopped in his tracks as he watched in shock.
The Beowolf tried to claw at Koyanskaya relentlessly. She stood there holding the Grimm by its neck. Its scratches proved to not even be able to break her skin. Adam was shocked that she remained unscathed. Just who was this woman exactly?
Koyanskaya stared into the eyes of the Grimm. The beast showed little in the way of mercy for her. Its jaws snapped at her while its claws continued to fruitlessly scratch at her body. After a moment, she smiled. Only then did she put the Beowolf out of commission by squeezing its neck, causing it to whimper before it died. Koyanskaya watched as the remnants of the Grimm dissipated in her hand. When it had completely vanished, she turned to Adam.
"Sorry about that," she said with a smile, as if nothing had happened just now. "It looks like you were right about these Grimm creatures. I must say, they're quite interesting."
"Right…" was all Adam can say.
This woman was strange. Perhaps he shouldn't have gotten involved with her. No, she was his only chance at getting to Blake. Making her pay would be very much worth it.
"Look, I've more than held up my end of the bargain," Adam said. "Are you satisfied or not?"
Koyanskaya smiled. "Yes, I think we're done here."
"Excellent. Let's get going. Do you have a ship ready?"
Koyanskaya giggled. "Oh no, I don't have anything like that."
Adam was starting to get frustrated. "What?! GRRR! Enough games. If you're holding out on your end of the deal, then I'll-"
Koyanskaya placed her finger on his lips, making him go silent. She ran her hand down the length of his face. "Relax. I never go back on a deal. Here, take my hand."
Koyanskaya held out her hand to Adam. He was reluctant at first, but decided to follow along. After grabbing her hand, the fox beast chuckled before the two vanished in an instant.
Well, that's all I got for now, I hope you enjoyed. This chapter took longer than I wanted because I went through a major rewrite part way. Originally I was going to have Ozpin return a lot sooner, but decided to scrap it because I really couldn't make it work outside of "Hi I'm Ozpin. Hi, we're Chaldea" schtick. There would've been more stuff too, but I won't bore you on the details. Although IF that is something y'all would find interesting, maybe I could try working it in again before getting too far into the next chapter. Anyway, thanks for reading and until next time.