Four Hearts Of One Journey

by Owriush

Their life's were as normal as can be. The girls of team RWBY living day, by day and enjoying the life they had. Until they became wrapped up in a destiny none of them had any idea they were apart of. One that would send them on a journey unlike anything they could have expected. With friends, new allies and each other. They'll have to be the hero's, everyone needs...

34. Chapter 30

AND I AM ALIVE!

For real though sorry for the MUCH more then intended update here. I did not mean for it to take so long. But IRL got real busy for me, mainly family stuff.

Anyways aside from that shtick and all. Here is obviously the next chapter, like usual I did all I could when it came to grammar, etc. You've heard it all beforehand so no need to repeat. But I will in the end note explain one of the important reasons, aside from IRL family stuff. On why it took me so long to get this chapter up. Till then, enjoy the chapter.

I do NOT in any way own RWBY or Kingdom hearts, along with any of the other franchise used in this story be it from literature, games, TV, anime and such . RWBY belongs to Rooster Teeth, Kingdom heart belongs to Square Enix/Disney; all other franchise belong to their respective creators.

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Four Hearts of One Journey

-Arc.2-

Ch.30: Traverse Town Pioneers- Home sweet home… Pt.2

Ruby was humble girl, she rarely felt the need to gloat because she found it usually petty if you asked her. Also pretty mean too depending on what someone would gloat about. Heck she usually became bashful when anyone praised her. But again, that most likely stemmed from not being well liked by many in her pervious school before Beacon. That coupled with people just being plain mean to her whenever she simply tried to be nice. All formed up to how she usually took sincere compliments when it came to her as a person.

BUT, that said. Right now Ruby couldn't help but feel the need to be a bit smug. Why, because she had gotten her rather so far; mean future sister in law Winter. To swallow her pride. Be it with hesitation and get an apology from the woman. Who she really did want to become friends with. But she needed to somehow break whatever shell of hatred Winter had for her, for whatever reason that still alluded Ruby to why Winter even disliked her so much.

Though again those questions could be answered later. She just hoped that maybe Winter would be a bit humbled by this. The word being 'hoped'. Still she now was happily exploring more of the Steel District on her own. Well not on her own-own. More like she was still with some of the others of their initial group. Being Jeanne, Scathach and Mister B. Who himself, let the three sit upon his shoulders and helmet as he walked down said district more. Sort of like their happily compliant slow-ish moving car. Granted the car was a two tone man in a heavily armored diving suit and had a large drill right hand that could cause quiet the painful death, if impaled by said drill.

But again. Mister B was a compliant mode of transportation for the girls.

"Ruby. I know you and Winter seem to have your issues. But I don't think being so prideful of getting her to apologize fits you well. Then again too much can be sin as you've learn, from what I've told you of my teaching." Jeanne stated, as she was happy Winter apologize to her young friend/master. But she was a bit worried Ruby was being too smug and prideful for the little feat of getting said apology; truly she just didn't want Ruby to start getting too smug for her own good

"I know… I know Jeanne. But I think I can take a bit of pride in being able to get her to even apologize in the first place. I'll be honest I was kind of thinking of well… maybe punching her in the face during that little spat. Just even once. She kind of was asking for it after most of our interactions in the past so far." Ruby replied. As she knew Jeanne had a point, but she really had felt after Winters last stunt, this last meeting. That the older Schnee earned a possible quick right hook to the face, maybe to at least shut her up on thinking she can be so…so MEAN. Though she did feel a bit guilty thinking of that possible outcome in the first place "Sorry Jeanne. I'll ah… try to be not as smug I guess."

"Personally I don't think it's that much of a deal. But mama Jeanne here has said her piece and who are we to go against mother wishes. Eh mama Jeanne?" Scathach teased her more ridged friend as she did respect Jeanne, like Jeanne respected her back the same way. But sometimes Scathach wished Jeanne could be a bit more lenient with behavior she personally didn't find much of an issue. She chuckled seeing Jeanne sigh, before she looked back to Ruby "Oh by the way. If you ever do think of at least decking Winter once. Make sure you keep your elbow a bit bent so you're arm doesn't lock or gives her a chance to grab your fist to give her leverage to land a punch back."

"Oh okay. Thanks Scathach!" Ruby thanked. As she knew she shouldn't be too happy learning a more proper way to punch a person. But she appreciated it either way since it was advice from a good friend

"Please Scathach… don't encourage her." Jeanne grumbled. Scathach and Ruby laughing a little at Jeanne's dubbed 'Mama Jeanne' behavior when she started to act like such a mother. Ignoring the two, she looked down at her fellow summon and felt a bit bad that they were using his as essentially a stead of sorts. Looking back up, she decided to make sure on something "Ruby. Are you sure Mister B here is okay with our current set up?"

"Yeah he doesn't mind. Right Mister B?" Ruby answered. Smiling happily as she pated Mister B's helmet, as she was the one sitting at that spot

"Grahhhh….. Urahhh." Mister B howled like usual, as Ruby let out a chuckle already having a feeling that was his answer; that and the fact his port holes were green currently. Which always indicated the two tone metal golem was in a friendly state of mind

"See Jeanne. TOTALLY FINE WITH IT." Ruby quipped as she saw Jeanne seemed satisfied with the answer, while Scathach was simply enjoying the ride. Though this did bring up a question Ruby had wanted to know about when it came to this recently learned mental connection between the summons and servants "Hey ah speaking of. Jeanne, Scathach. Have you been able to talk with the other summons you haven't meet yet. Through that you know, mind link thingy?"

"Hm, the others. Well aside from barely speaking with that M1-4X robot, I've been able to speak with Weiss summons. Though I hadn't expected one to be a dog. At least from the barks, a smart one at that. But still a dog." Scathach exclaimed as she scowled a moment later "But the other one irked me. Was being pretty rude too since it seemed I was bothering his nap. Which I didn't know these so called robots could do that. Since I never saw Clank sleep. At least not like how we do. Little punk when he's summon I'm gonna…"

"Yeah that would be Metabee. I haven't been able to get to know the little guy too well. But he's pretty nice, well mostly. But I could tell he was a blunt one too, like you experience. Still I'm sure you'll get use to them. I just hope Mordred doesn't get into a fight with any of them." Ruby stated, as she had a feeling Mordred and Metabee might get into a few fights considering there rather similar temperaments now that she thought on it more. Though she sighed, when she realized she'd have to ask if Jeanne had spoken to her other two… summons. Since if she had, most likely her little girl Jack probably had too "Jeanne how about you… have you…"

"Yes actually." Jeanne replied simply, though her tone was rather… dejected and unsettled. Which was enough of an answer for Ruby to realized it wasn't probably the best first meeting between Jeanne and her other two older summons

"I understand. Sorry Jeanne…" Ruby muttered as she felt some guilt for whatever had been said between Jeanne and her two older summons

Now to be exact, when Jeanne answered Ruby. She didn't mean to sound so upset or at least mildly upset. Since maybe it was because of her more unique servant class of being a Ruler or maybe something else since she hadn't ask her other fellow servants on this particular issue she'd experienced. But Jeanne had actually known of Ruby's summons beforehand. More in fact, she saw their memories.

Again, Jeanne had no idea if this had only been her and if not. If any of her fellow servants would experience this sooner or later themselves. But from what Jeanne had seen from the memories of the one's she knew were called Jungle Hunter and Frank or The Punisher…

She hated to judge so soon, but she found them to be utterly veil. Sure her own hands were not clean, despite many of her fellow countrymen back in the war calling her a living saint. No, she had much blood on her own hands. But that was war, in those situations it was hard NOT to get blood on your hands. But unlike those two veil men. She never enjoyed the act of killing or sending others to their deaths under her command. She always cried on the inside during the war. Only to feel some actual peace when was burn upon a steak.

But for Jungle Hunter and Frank. Jeanne saw they took rather great pleasure in killing. Even if one killed for simple sport if not with some honor involved. While the other did so, for his own rather bleak sense of justice as she saw it. Oh yes, their murders and kills she witnesses were now forever burned into her mind.

From first witnessing Jungle Hunter's early life and rise into a hunter of his clan. To his mission on his version of earth itself. Seeing the beast hunt a group of soldiers in a Jungle, using odd weapons called guns that still baffle her after what she saw what said gun were capable of. To then seeing Jungle Hunter kill most of the solider in gruesome ways, alongside ripping out the skulls of at least two of the dead men for a trophy; while the others the beast simply skinned before stringing up in the tress. Which was the most sickening part of the beast's memories for her personally.

Though the memory that stuck out the most, when it came to Jungle Hunter. Was when she witnessed the beast's death. Which if she had to use a word to describe that particular memory, it would be… 'unsettling'.

---

Jeanne knew this was a memory. Opening her eyes she saw, she was standing. In a field, trees around, the cold air she felt oddly too and the smell of smoke. All this confused her for a moment as she watched this new memory of Jungle Hunter. That was until she saw the beast again. But this time it was… different.

This time Jeanne saw the last survivor of the group of solider. The leader, who was a large muscular man with short brown buzzed hair, peached skinned and blue eyed. He worse simply his pants and boots by this point. The rest of his body was covered in sweat, blood and dry mud. This man currently held a large rock over his head. A look on his face like he was ready to land a killing blow on whatever he stood above. But what caught Jeanne's attention more, was that it was the beast himself the soldier stood above

She saw Jungle Hunter, without his mask and also found his face rather… skin crawling. She believed that if God made humans in his image. The devil must have made things like Jungle Hunter in his own image. That was the only explanation she could accept looking upon the beast. Who was under a large log and bleed of all things green glowing blood. But she watched on, as she saw the man over Jungle Hunter stare at the beast for a few seconds, before dropping the improvised weapon to his left. The man staring down at Jungle Hunter seeming more curious than anything by this point.

"What the hell are you?" The man asked, as Jeanne had to admit she might have asked the same thing in his position. She looked back to Jungle Hunter who seemed to be struggling for a few moments

'WWWhhhaattt…dthaeee…. hel…. ar…. youuuu?" Jungle Hunter answered back. As Jeanne to notice it seemed the beast was just now learning to speak normally and not just growl or roar. The voice itself made Jeanne's skin crawl even more at how inhuman it sounded. But she also noticed a moment of silence between the two enemies before jungle Hunter fiddled with the gauntlet on his left arm some

That's when Jeanne realized Jungle Hunter had set off something, as his gauntlet a second later began to slowly beep. Strange red symbols changing at a constant like it was saying something that only Jungle Hunter could read. Jeanne also took notice that the man was utterly confused at the action and what even was occurring. Then Jungle Hunter did something else, something that she found to be the most terrifying thing about the beast. Even more than how he killed or behaved with the dead bodies of his so called 'prey'. For Jungle Hunter at that point, started to simply… laugh.

"Hea….hea… hea.. ha.. ha. ha." Jungle Hunter began to chuckle, as his laugh to Jeanna horror went from somewhat deep and scratchy. to sounding very quickly more… human

Jeanne had also taken notice that the man who Jungle Hunter had been defeated by. Took a moment or so, before realizing whatever Jungle Hunter did would be a hazard to his health. With that, Jeanne saw him make a dash to his right behind him and into the heavy jungle area. But Jeanne became even more disturbed when she kept hearing Jungle Hunter laughed and how… human it really sounded seconds later.

"Ha, ha, ha, ha…. HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!" Jungle Hunter laughed, laughed and laughed like a mad man

Jeanne by this point had decided that when she most likely would meet Jungle Hunter whenever Ruby summons him again. She'd be on her guard, though her skin kept crawling by the laugh of Jungle Hunter. Before she saw the beast stop, looking up at the sky and she swore she saw in that unsettling mouth of his. A form of a smile that could be barely seen. Oddly that was the only moment she felt a snippet of connection to him. That smiled said it all, he wasn't happy he lost. But was happy to die a warrior's death in a way. A sort of peace could be also seen in the eyes even.

Though Jeanne then was blinded by a bright blue light and a loud boom. She covered her eyes, only for moments later to awaken. Breathing heavily from what she's seen when it came to one of Ruby's summons. The one she had guess was the beast when asked first about them. Jeanne at that point at time, wondered if she'd have the same thing happen with the other summons she knew of.

---

Jeanne to her relief at least for a while after this occurred, which was during their stay at Ezio's a few days before they left. The night before her little thankfully resolved argument with Dante. Had also viewed the memories of the two other older summons. Mister B and Frank. Since she hadn't yet gotten a possible glimpse of the memories of the group of fourth summons Ruby got in Ezio's world.

But the memories of the other two she did see, well Mister B's was quiet… sad. She can't even still phantom he came from a city under the sea. That and being forced into become what he currently was. She wondered, if there was even a semblance of the man that was Mister B. Was there even a small shred of the man Mister B had been still inside that head of his. She shuttered a bit to the answer, as both seemed like a grim outcome. Either learning quickly you've become a shell of who you once was or have no trait of your old self. To be honest, Jeanne didn't know which was worse.

Then when she thought of the last of memories she witnessed. That of Frank Castel or as he's also called. The Punisher. A fitting name for in her opinion as much as she loathed to admit being so judgmental. But Frank was a veil man to her. Truly she saw many of his rather fantastical memories of his world. One of so called 'Superhero's', people who had powers of wonder and dedicated their lives to fighting the worlds evils. Though Frank seemed to have a very critical and dare she say radical interpterion from his collogues. She won't think much on those witness memories though. She found each more and more sickening despite what she herself had seen on the battlefield.

The ONLY reason Jeanne had even had a shred of sympathy for the veil man. Was because she also… also saw what created him. For it seemed he always had that want to punish those who done wrong in a permeate way. From childhood, adolescents, adulthood, his time in the military, then being a police officer before retiring. Frank had always seemed to suppress that need to punish criminals in an extreme manner. Then Jeanne saw it in his memories. The day Frank Castel died and the Punisher finally was born.

She did feel for the man who's family died in a tragic accident. As they were in the wrong place at the wrong time. Simply enjoying a day out in the sun as a family of four. Frank in the memories seemed so… happy with his wife, son and daughter. Then she remembered seeing it next. His family dead, with only him alive if barely. But fiercely holding his dead family in his arms. Crying, and crying in a way Jeanne never would imagine seeing a grown man cry.

After that. Jeanne waking up once more. Tears in her eyes, as she had witnessed the memories of a happy father, turned murderous vigilant after his family was taken from them. Heck, she even did little prayer for Franks family. Even if she did already despised the man simply for his extremely gruesome actions against criminals. She couldn't deny he had unlike most others with a similar mindset. Had a rather legit reason for his actions. Even if she found said actions again, veil.

Still Jeanne didn't want to tell Ruby this. Not because she didn't want too, but because she felt she didn't have the right to do so. They were her summons, but also despite what she also saw when it came the interaction between Ruby and them so far. Mainly the interactions between Ruby and Jungle Hunter. Alongside the ones between Ruby and Frank. That they were also her friends oddly, more of the ladder then the former currently. So she chalked this up to Ruby having to grow her bonds with her summons more. Since it would beneficial to all their survival with the trials ahead.

Though as she was still in her train of thought, she felt a flick on her cheek. Snapping back to reality she looked seeing Scathach smirking alongside Ruby smiling at her. She huffed at little at the former.

"W-What was that for?" Jeanne questioned. Scathach simply chuckled as she looked back ahead

"Ruby was talking to you. But you spaced out mama." Scathach answered, with a slight tease as Jeanne was just too easy to mess with at times

"Please… do not call me that again Scathach." Jeanne pleaded as it sounded really weird having one her friends call her mama so casually. Scathach only shrugged, Jeanne sighed before turning her attention to her younger friend "Yes Ruby. Sorry I was in thought, but what were we talking about?"

"That's fine Jeanne. I was just saying that I think we should take a quick stop soon. Give Mister B here a good old break." Ruby happily explained, before she patted the top of Mister B's head "Ain't that buddy!"

"Yrahhh…" Mister B bellowed this time as Ruby seemed to understand the answer even if she really couldn't tell what the iron golem man had just said

"Glad you agree. Still, where should stop at?" Ruby quipped giving Mister B, one more pat on his helmet before looking around some more ahead of her "Hm…?"

"How about over by that group?" Scathach suddenly chimed in. Pointing to her left a bit to what exactly she was speaking of

What Ruby and Jeanne saw. Were at least four other people there. Two she knew well enough, one not as well and the last Ruby couldn't remember if she'd meet EXACTLY or if so it was brief. Still those she did know well were Neo and Fareeha. Neo simply because of their first encounter with the girl. When she and Celestia crashed inside of Merlin's home. Before almost getting chocked out by HK-97. Thankfully that was quickly stopped. Still the other well known person was Fareeha. Not as well as Neo. Though they had spoken with one another a few good times after their first initial meetings with the woman on the previous town visit. So she was a bit associated with the older woman, who's armor and weapons Ruby STILL pleaded to give details about. Mainly her cool concussion rifle. But Fareeha was a stubborn woman.

The other two again Ruby didn't know as well. Valmet a bit more since she did have a few interactions with the woman. Though she can't remember if she had worked with her in any kind of battles with the heartless. She believes she had, or maybe it was someone else she was thinking of. Same when it came to the only man in the group ahead who wore red armor. Toyi…. no, Tayy…. No. Oh right it was Toyohisa, that was the name. Honestly Ruby was having a hard time remembering many things. But she knew being here for a while would really help with her memory gaps and getting to know everyone else better.

Ruby simply whispered something to Mister B as she pointed at the group. Mister B only letting out a low hum as he turned his walk to the group moments after. Didn't take too long too before the one's ahead took notice. Looking back as they as Mister B get closer and closer, before stopping. Letting the girls down off him. Ruby giving Mister B a 'thank you' arm pat. Jeanne and Scathach did the same too moments after. Then finally came he meeting, two sides standing on two sides. Ruby decided to take the initiation as she cleared her throat before addressing their allies.

"Hey aga-" Ruby had started to say, before she got a sudden hug from Neo. Who despite her rather smaller size; even if she was maybe an inch or two shorter than Ruby. Neo was able to lift Ruby up in the air rather easily. Letting her down, Ruby chuckled a bit as she was glad to have another welcome back from someone else in this town that they knew well "Hehe, nice to see you too. Neo… right. Sorry I've never been great at remembering names of people I've probably only meet once or twice. No offense."

"Ah no issues girl. I'm just happy to see one of my other new buddies again. Where's the rest, split up?" Neo replied. Letting go of Ruby, but smiling none the less seeing one of her first other new friends when arriving at this place months ago

"Oh just here and there. Oh also, the new faces with me are friends. Mister B's the easiest to spot." Ruby answered, as she motioned to Mister B. Who thankfully has his eye ports as green as the others of Neo's group inspected him

"Grrrhhhaaaa…" Mister B mellowed as the others turned their attention back to Ruby, a bit confused if Mister B had just spoken to them or not

"Hehe don't worry he's like that." Ruby explained, before motioning to Jeanne and Scathach "And these two are-"

"Ruby we appreciate the gesture. But we can introduce ourselves." Jeanne kindly stated, as she patted the top of Ruby's head; who oddly seemed to smiled a bit at the maternal like gesture of the older woman. Jeanne happy to see her master wasn't offended looked back to those new to her "Anyways. I'm Jeanne. Jeanne D'Arc."

"Wait what?!" Fareeha screamed as she moved a bit closer to Jeanne who was a bit surprised at the suddenness of whatever the woman was so shocked a bout "Y-You mean as in the Saint of Orleans. That Jeanne D'Arc?"

"Man you really must be famous Jeanne." Ruby quipped as Scathach chuckled some from the sudden attention Jeanne was getting and how flustered the holy maiden was feeling

"I must be… I mean I wouldn't say I'm THAT famous. I was just a soldier." Jeanne exclaimed as she was feeling a little shocked at apparently how famous she was in history, even if she remembers fully her whole history thankfully. Jeanne didn't think she'd be remembered much to the world outside of France and England. But if Fareeha's reaction was anything, Jeanne started to wondered more on just HOW famous she actually

"Don't kid yourself. Not many in the modern era haven't heard of the Holy Maiden of Orleans. Who fought in the 100 year war against the British Armies so long ago. Only to be burned down at the stake, tried as a witch." Valmet explained. As Ruby and Neo at least were quite surprised at how the apparent tale Jeanne had to her name

"Wait what. Jeanne you never told us that?!" Ruby yelled. More in shock the anything as she'd always been curious how famous Jeanne was, since the older servant of hers had barely said a thing on her own history since first being summoned; even if Jeanne had thankfully retained her own history to mind. Though hearing more on Jeanne's tale now… she felt sad. Especially if the end of Jeanne's tale, was true

"Well I was going to later on when I felt more… comfortable doing so. That and ah, Dante may have known beforehand. I told him to be exact when we started to get to know each other I mean." Jeanne explained. A bit sheepishly as she could see Ruby pouting a bit, a little upset that Jeanne didn't seem to trust them enough to at least know of her past. No matter how grim it could have been to hear. Jeanne only sighed at that small little oversight of hers "I'm sorry Ruby. I promise I'll be more open when we all get a chance to talk amongst ourselves. I promise."

"Hm… I know. Just no more secrets, kay Jeanne?" Ruby replied as she gave her friend a smile, Jeanne seeming to understand only nodded back in agreement

"All that aside…" Scathach suddenly stated. Getting the conversation back on track as the others turned their attention to her now. The woman smiling a bit that she had the floor "Since you all know of Jeanne or at least two of you. Then let me introduce myself. You may call me Scathach, I-"

"The Queen of the Shadowlands!" Valmet screamed in a surprisingly high pitch as all eyes were on her now. Valmet doing what she could to avoid the sudden feeling of embarrassment rising up. Clearing her throat before trying to salvage that small outburst "Ahem. Sorry, Koko back home had a collection of folklore I would read from time to time. SO that's why I know of you hehe… sorry."

"Sounds like you're kind of a fangirl." Neo mused, smirking a little as Valmet gave the two-toned girl a slight glare that was laughed off in the most respectable way by Neo. Sighing she looked back to Scathach

"Ahem… sorry again about that. Anyways, I'm Valmet nice to meet you and Jeanne." Valmet properly introduced herself this time, feeling a bit embarrassed acting like such a fangirl moments ago

"Same here. You can call me Fareeha." Fareeha added in, before looking at Ruby "Also the answer is still no. Don't want you getting yourself hurt is all."

"Aw…." Ruby grumbled as she had a feeling Fareeha still wasn't going to let her at least look over her weapon. Thankfully Neo cut in before Ruby could start to loudly grumble

"And I'm Neo!" Neo cheered as she gave Jeanne and Scathach at least a big smile. Since she had a feeling Mister B wasn't much of a talker "Anyways can I ask. But You two have such nice hair, how do you keep it so shinny. Oh, and what kind of stuff is your armor made of. Also, can I ask again. But-"

"Neo please shut up. I'm getting a headache again with your constant questions." Toyohisa bluntly interrupted, seeming a bit irritated from Neo's questions that weren't even aimed at him

"Jerk…" Neo muttered, sticking her tongue out the red armored samurai who simply rolled his eyes at the childish response. Before he turned his sights on the two called Jeanne and Scathach; ignoring Ruby for now

"So you two are…warriors too?" Toyohisa questioned, raising an eyebrow as Jeanne and Scathach took a pretty easy notice he seemed to be in disbelief at such a thing

"Well no-" Scathach was about to say, as she wasn't a fan of people who doubted her for whatever reason; but she was stopped when Jeanne gave her a look that pleaded 'Please don't, please my friend'. Scathach only sighed and complied since she respected Jeanne enough to do so; even if she thought the rude man didn't deserve to be spoken back too kindly

"Sorry about her. But yes we are sir." Jeanne replied, as kindly as she could since she could see this man wasn't probably from a time where women weren't as involved with such things as warfare. Granted the same could be said of her time, but it still irked her a little too; but she didn't want to make any enemies amongst their new allies. Though Jeanne did also take notice the red armored man was staring at much more intensely than he had with the rest which bothered Jeanne a bit honestly "Um… is something wrong sir?"

"Toyohisa not sir alright and it's nothing… Jeanne." Toyohisa answered, as he was glad that at least THIS Jeanne D'Arc wasn't like the fire loving; batshit crazy one back in his own homeworld. He did wonder though if this Jeanne fought like the others one. But he let those thoughts be as he averted his gaze to Ruby now. Sighing a bit inside as he could tell also too that she was just like the other one he had met when first arriving here. Now especially, since he got a better look at the younger red-themed teen girl "Just like the one in white. You're so small."

"Ah… what?" Ruby asked, as she was a little confused by the man's words and felt a little offended too if she was going to honest

"The other one of you little… 'saviors' of ours. The brat in white with the scar over her left eye, she was small too. Just like you, but at least she seemed capable." Toyohisa answered as he was simply being honest. He was never really a man to hold words back, no matter who it was

"E-Excuse me?" Ruby responded. A bit shocked at how blunt this guy was being with her despite the fact they had just officially meet one another not even a minute ago

"Toyohisa come on…." Fareeha grumbled as she and the others knew of the man's rather blunt; and sometimes sexist nature. Not that he meat it, but it still didn't sit well with many of the women he'd been blunt with these past four months

"I'm just saying. If she can't handle mere words, then I don't have much faith in the others then." Toyohisa stated. Yet in again in his blunt manner, as he had more than gotten over his issue with just the women being in battle. Now it was honestly more of Ruby having to prove she had the will to keep on fighting. In this case for the man, as Ruby to him look very soft in many aspects

"Well excuse ME for trying to keep you all safe these past four months mister….mister JERK PANTS!" Ruby argued, feeling irritated at Toyohisa's rather already rude nature

"Not helping your case there kiddo…." Valmet muttered. As she could already see this was going to end up badly if it went on "Toyohisa just-"

"I'm only saying the honest truth here. She's soft-looking. Maybe she's not cut out to save us. She is just a little girl after all." Toyohisa stated, shrugging as he could see the dagger-like glares Jeanne and Scathach at least we're giving the man. But paid his full attention to rather irked Ruby "Unless she wants to prove it right. Prove she can live up to what's been said about her and little friends."

"A-Are you…. are you trying to pick a fight me with me?" Ruby questioned as she was baffled at what this guy's problem was

She didn't have anything to prove, especially to this jerk. But the fact that he just shrugged when Ruby asked the question irked her even more than she wanted it to. As both of them were having a small stare down by this point. Jeanne took notice and was about to intervene for Ruby's sake. Only to feel Scathach with a slightly hard grip around her left arm hold her back. Nodding a 'No', Jeanne already having a feeling her friend wasn't going to let go. Looked back to Ruby and Toyohisa having their silent stare down.

For the rest, even Mister B who's eye ports were yellow right now as he senses Ruby's irritation somehow. The others kept quiet a little worried that this sudden meet and greet, would end up becoming a fight. A few more seconds went by with the sudden tenseness. Only for it all to cease when they all heard the sound of someone clapping their hands.

Looking to their right as that was the direction where the claps could be heard. The group saw of all things, a man in a fully black hooded coat being the one who was clapping his hands. Ceasing as he knew he was caught. He walked a bit closer to the group.

"Hehe. I have to say, you little red; are quite the temperamental one. I can feel in it your heart. That little bit of darkness and anger. It's amusing." The hooded man remarked, laughing some more as the group suddenly got into half-ready stances just in case; though Ruby a moment later realized who this guy was

"Hey wait a minute. Y-Your that weird guy from all the way back at Beacon!" Ruby yelled, with a rare tone of utter disgust and hate for the man from way back then

"Ruby you know this dude?" Neo questioned, a bit surprised at how much it seemed Ruby disliked the hooded man before them

"Not really. He's just some weirdo that we ran into when the Heartless were taking over our world. He also was mocking us plenty and found amusement in the situation." Ruby explained, before narrowing her glare at the hooded man who chuckled much to her irritation "Guess that hasn't changed since then."

"What can I say little red. You're plight still amuses me, even more now with all your new little playmates suffering with you too." The hooded man remarked as he clapped some more "Have to ask. Why are the REST of you fighting too?"

"I'm sorry what?" Valmet asked this time, hand slowly going closer to her holstered pistol as this guy was making all her senses scream 'danger' just being near him

"I mean seems pointless, doesn't it. It's not like little red and her poise of colored coded friends are going to be able to do much in the ways of helping. Honestly, it might be better if you all just give up and-" The hooded man began to exclaimed, rather bluntly before he dodged to the right as Toyohisa's katana blade nearly nicked his head "Well that wasn't unexpected."

"Shut it. I'm tired of you already, so I'll cut your head off to shut you up for good." Toyohisa exclaimed, narrowing his eyes as he got into a stance ready to fight

"Count us in too!" Neo chanted, as she took out a small dagger that she kept on hand when she didn't bring out her Parasoul during her time here

Valmet and Fareeha followed in suit, Valmet with her pistol out now and primed to help with the fight. Fareeha like Neo, taking out a knife of her own. Alongside Jeanne and Scathach who had their respective weapons out. Mister B second to last as he growled some while starting up his drill hand, followed by his eye ports flickering between red and yellow.

"You heard them. So why don't you just back off and go away!" Ruby stated, in a rare stern tone as she moved past the others and in front of them. Before summoning her Keyblade and trying to ignore that voice in her head again. Hearing the woman chuckle some like she was getting excited for the sudden battle. That and her other power starting to act up in her left hand. But Ruby ignored her, and her powers flare-up in her left hand. As she focused on the hooded man "Or we'll make you."

"Hahaha. There we are, that's much better little red. You are really getting more interesting by the second. Still, I don't take kindly to being threatened. So…" The hooded man stated amused mostly. Though with a hint of underlying irritation as a weapon began to form in his hand

To be honest though as the weapon formed. Ruby was a bit underwhelmed at how… plain it looked. It was a curved steel sword with a worn-out gold hit/ handle. But despite the plain look, it did seem to give off also a rather… otherworldly pressure that screamed danger.

-("Hm, what an interesting weapon. Plain, yet dangerous. Remind you of anyone brat?")- The woman's voice in Ruby's head snarked, seeming a little more talkative today as Ruby frowned a bit at the insult that was aimed right at herself

-"Leave me alone okay, all you've been is a bully to me. So quiet!"- Ruby snapped back, glad they could only speak mentally. At least for the most part, as she put her attention back to the hooded man before them. Feeling the need to say something to at least alleviate her slowly rising panic. She decided to see if she could joke a bit "W-What's up with that old relic. Dig out of s-some garage or something?"

"Oh… are, are trying to smack talk me little red?" The hood man asked as Ruby could feel her attempts to joke around going downhill real quick. Didn't help when she felt everyone else's gazes on her all of sudden even if they were all facing the hooded man still. Who, himself laughed before responding back "HA. Well, that's rich coming from you. You red and black edge lord!"

"E-Edge lord. I am NOT an Edge lord mister!" Ruby argued back as she WAS not being edgy. Red and black were not JUST edgy colors. Whoever started that rumor is a serious dummy if you asked Ruby

"Eh… I don't know. It's really the only colors you have on you and I also heard you used to use a giant scythe as a weapon too. Coupled with cross pins that help hold up that large red hood cape of yours. I hate to say it but. You're KIND of edgy there gal pal." Neo explained, feeling a bit bad for saying so. But hey that was just her opinion there

"See she agrees. I'm not the only one who sees it!" The hooded man exclaimed like he was glad SOMEONE else saw what he was seeing when he looked upon Ruby

"Neo. Seriously why?!" Ruby questioned with a look of betrayal, as Neo shrugged with an apologetic smile

"Please can we STOP agreeing with the enemy ladies?" Scathach asked, as she was starting to see what Jeanne meant by their group going off into random conversations and apparently amongst enemies too of all things

"She's right. And I'm sick of waiting, now fight us so I can claim your head damnit!" Toyohisa stated irked a bit at the sudden randomness that just occurred. He'd dealt with plenty so far, but never during the start of a battle and he WASN'T going to start now "Seriously girl, can you focus at all?!"

"Hey back off mister. You're just being meaner mc meanie!" Ruby argued back, as Toyohisa at least rolled his eyes at the rather childish words Ruby spewed

"Again…not helping with that kid image Ruby…" Valmet muttered once more, while some of the others sighed a bit at Ruby's current behavior

Though that wouldn't last too long, as the hooded man decided to throw some little information he'd learned about Ruby and a few of the individuals with her currently. Laughing once more, he got the group's attention as they focused on him once again.

"My oh my. Dear young lad, is that any way to talk to your aunt?" The hooded man all of sudden blurted out. Which got the others attention real quick

"Wait… w-what? Ruby asked confused beyond belief at what the hooded man just stated, she looked to see Toyohisa seeming to feel the same way as he just stared at the hooded man baffled. Though the hooded man laughed some more, seeming to enjoy bringing them all confusion. Which started to get on Ruby's nerves even more "W-Will you just stop laughing you weirdo?!"

"Haha. Sorry, sorry the looks on your faces were worth it. Oh and even if you don't want to know. The two older women are your nieces." The hooded man remarked as he pointed at Valmet and Fareeha who flinched a little at the sudden statement. Looking at each other, then Ruby in shock. Before the hooded man pointed then at Neo "And she's you're cousin."

"I…ah…." Neo tried to say, as she felt like this man wasn't lying. She'd been a seasoned liar a good chunk of her life and she could tell when someone was lying or telling the truth pretty well. All her knowledge of reading voices screamed he was being fully honest

"Alright enough!" Ruby screamed as she decided to just talk to the hooded man now instead of pondering more on his words "We'll all sort out what you said later. After we beat you, so stop stalling a-and just fight us already!"

It was quiet for a moment or so. Mostly because it was rare to hear Ruby yell at someone else with such a tone of irritation and hate. Then again from what she briefly said when she and the others first meet this man. That alongside dealing with him for only a few minutes and everyone here could understand easily why Ruby maybe not so nice to this hooded man.

"Hm… well…" The hooded man pretended to ponder on Ruby's words. Before he sudden in a blink appeared right in front of Ruby. Slamming his sword down as Ruby blocked it before she was pushed back. Though thankfully was caught by Jeanne and Fareeha before she could fall over. The man chuckled as the other faced him "Since you asked so nicely, who am I to argue?"

With that, the fight quickly started. Valmet already firing a few shots from his pistol at the hooded man. The man was able to barely dodge most of them. But blocked the last two with his sword, but only to be forced to start blocking a few good savage attacks from Toyohisa. Who was able to nick his left bicep just barely. Before going in for a stab. Only for the hooded man to just mere seconds after to dodge the stab and knee the samurai in the stomach. Before tripping him face-first into the metal ground below. A slight crunch could be heard from the force of the attack itself too.

Though the hooded man barely got a second to take a breather as Mister B rammed right into him as he blocked a lunge from the metal golems drill. Sparks flying off the blade as the hooded man was pushed back two feet or so. Fareeha then came in from the man's left pushing the man away from Mister B. Using the knife she borrowed from Valmet as she was cursing herself leaving her weapon and armor back in her room of all days.

A good few swipes here and there. Both Fareeha and the hooded man trading blows and barely hitting one another. Though Fareeha was using this as a distraction. As Scathach came in from the hooded man's right. Stabbing her blood-red spear into his side. The hooded man grunting in pain as Scathach twisted her spear a bit for extra damage, while also dropping his sword from the sudden attack. Though the hooded man decided to use this to his own advantage. As he grabbed Scathach's closer hand on the spear and pulled her suddenly towards him. Before getting the woman into a chokehold. While also at the same time swinging the spear lodge in his left side quick and hard right into Fareeha. Who was pushed against the ground hard from the hit.

The hooded man meanwhile. Quickly was able to use his free hand to pull the spear out as he kept Scathach in a chokehold. But he was forced to release the woman when Jeanne came in being carried by Mister B who threw her right at him. Holding his arms up. The hooded man was able to block the kick Jeanne delivered if only to feel his arms slight splinter he believed from the kick's force alone. Didn't help when he saw Jeanne summon a spear-tipped flag pole and barely dodged getting hit by said flag pole when Jeanne slammed it down at him.

By this point, the hooded man had to admit he was scolding himself for getting just a bit TOO confident here. But before he could scold himself. He saw Mister B charging him once more, though this time he decided to leap over the metal golem. But as he landed. He was stabbed in the stomach by Neo. Who in turn began to punch him with her left hand while twisting the dagger in his stomach. He only got freed from this sudden assault if not painfully. From Ruby herself. Who had leaped over Neo and kicked the hooded man square in his covered face. Followed by a string of quick combo attacks.

As the combo ceases though. He began to really regret underestimating the little girl as she was NOT stopping with her assault on him. As she kept swinging more and more at him, dodging a spear attack from Ruby's Keyblade when it shifted to that form. It wasn't too long before he was pushed back onto the ground when Ruby transformed her Keyblade spear into its gun form and shouted 'AERO'. The gust of wind and the force of the gunshot it came from. Pushed the man onto his back. As he coughed out just a bit of blood.

Though it wasn't over. As the hooded man felt sudden Valmet leap right over him. Her knee rammed into his now even more bruised stomach. Before he began to get his face punched in by the woman. After what felt like the millionth rapid flurry of punches. He was able to grab Valmet's left fist. Quickly using the moment of shock. He flipped Valmet onto her back into a hold, before he began to bend her arm backward. Her screams of sudden intense pain filling the hooded man up with some joy.

Then once more. His fun was bloody ruined. As he was swarmed by crows of all things pecking at him with the intent to kill. After a few seconds of fighting off the avian attackers, he was suddenly kneed from under his chin by Ruby. Who herself, took the chance to do so when she saw her power starting to fade like the last two times she noticed when she used her Murder of Crows ability.

Still, the sudden hit gave off enough force. That it actually flung the hooded man into the air. Where he saw what looked like Fareeha with Valmet's pistol. Firing off a few rounds, the hooded man ended up with the rest of the five rounds in his body. Mainly his right arm. Still, it wasn't over as he saw Mister B grabbed Ruby and Neo. Launching both girls up in the air, before they ended up just barely above him. Both smirking as they dropped kicked the hooded man into the ground.

After that, the hooded man felt his body ache. Ached in SO much pain. Sure he could heal and he would live through this. But that didn't mean it didn't hurt like hell itself. But if to add salt to the wound. As he began to stand back up. He saw Toyohashi with a bloody if not possibly broken nose. Run right at him with his katana. Stabbing it right through the center of his stomach. The blade stabbed just a few inches into the ground as the hooded man groaned.

"Haha…ow…. Okay… okay…. I have to admit. That was fun…. HA. Teach me to underestimate you lot." The hooded man said, through the pain as he chuckled some. The others surrounding the impaled man were irked and not amused one bit. The hooded man simply chuckled some more at this "W-What's the matter… l-lost your sense of humor HA!"

"Quiet you!" Ruby ordered, before huffing a bit and crossing her arms "Alright now. Look here jerk. We didn't have to go this far. But you forced our hands, you could have just left."

"And miss out o-on saying hi to one of my… my favorite fools?" The hooded man mocked as Ruby flinched some at the words; only for Valmet to cut in

"I say we cut his fingers off. See if he squeals a little." Valmet suggested. Narrowing her eyes at the hooded man while she had her gun aimed right at his head in case he tried anything else

"I second that." Toyohisa added in, as he was pretty pissed getting taken down so quick by this man. That and this hooded man was just annoying beyond belief, but a dangerous one too. So he made sure he kept his hands on the handle of his katana to finish the man off if he even tried doing something other than groaning in pain

Fareeha, Scathach, Neo and Jeanne kept their silence. As they either were against it. Jeanne and Fareeha's on that side more. While some of the others were for it. Like how Neo and Scathach were. But they all decided to keep their silence as their focus was on the hooded man fully. Seeing if he was going to try anything. Mister B meanwhile was, well just being himself as he had no opinions what so ever on the hooded man. Other than crush him if he attacks his master or his master's allies once more. Ruby though was the only one to actually speak her piece on the sudden suggestion.

"No, we're not going to torture this man… no matter how mean he is." Ruby stated, as she was NOT going to go down that kind of path. She was NOT going to… no matter how much that stupid voice in her head whispered that she should. She was just going to do her best to ignore it is all

"We really should little red. Scum like him won't talk unless we don' apply SOME force." Toyohisa chimed in, trying to persuade his supposed 'Aunt' to reconsider what she was saying

"Yeah seriously. Sometimes-" Valmet was about to add in, as she also felt the same as Toyohisa. Only for her to be cut off, but Ruby herself

"NO!" Ruby yelled, making the others in the group flinch some; even Mister B oddly since Ruby was not usually this stern. Didn't help when she gave Valmet and Toyohisa a stern gaze "Listen here we are not going to do that. Not while I'm around, now listen to your Aunt on this. Understood!"

Now granted the adults here could just ignore their supposed 'Aunt's' order since again. She was about, they believed from looks alone fifteen at least. Still for some reason Valmet and Toyohisa just simply nodded a silent 'Yes Ma'am' to Ruby. Like they really could sense that Ruby was in fact, their actually Aunt. Which if so, made it very odd considering she was really young. Didn't help when Neo chimed suddenly realizing herself what this meant.

"Wait. WAIT I just realized, if Ruby is your Aunt and I'm her cousin. Then when it comes to you three adults…" Neo began to say, smiling in utter glee as she gazed upon Fareeha, Valmet and Toyohisa. While not taking notice of the small prayer Jeanne was already making for them. But Neo couldn't help but feel giddy from this sudden realization "That means I have seniority over you three. HAHAHA. Auntie powers activate HAHAHA!"

"AAAAnnnddd…. She's already planning on abusing this theoretical power she has over us… yay." Fareeha muttered, as she still was on the fence with this news until they got confirmation. She took notice of Jeanne praying for the three adults while Scathach simply shrugged in slight sympathy for them. But seemed to find it more amusing then anything "Joy… if this is true then…"

"We'll figure that out later. Try and find Angela or I think his name was Ratchet. Yeah I think was his name, anyways we'll find them. Then asked them about if mister Hood's claim is true." Ruby exclaimed before she looked back at the hooded man, returning to a glare "Now tell us who're you're working for. If you do we'll be kinder with your jail sentence."

"Wait do you have a jail in this town?" Scathach chimed in, curious herself if this town even had this so called jail. If you asked her, better to just kill this man but… Ruby was in charge right now. That and she had a feeling her master Weiss wouldn't be real happy if she did it against Ruby's orders as much as she still believed they should again just kill this man

"I… actually do any of you know?" Fareeha was about to answer. Before she stopped herself. Realizing even after four months. She still didn't know everything about their town. The other simply shrugged having not much of an idea themselves of all things "Seriously… no seriously?"

"Well it's not like we've HAD to arrest anyone so far. But then again maybe we do…" Neo replied back. Before shaking her head of the sudden unnecessary thoughts "Ugh. Never mind that. Ruby's right though on one thing mister hood. Tell us who you're working for and why you're even here and we'll treat you kindly. Otherwise, I can't vouch for what the others might do to you once we bring you in."

"I'd take it sir. I've only meet a few of these people so far and I can tell at least most of them are good. While others…" Jeanne sated sternly as she looked at Toyohisa for a moment, before looking back at the hooded man "So, what is your answer hm?"

"Hm….hehe…hehe…. Oh… oh don't worry. I'll talk… move in just a bit closer little red. I'll whisper it in your ear." The hooded man stated, as Ruby looked a bit uneasy. The others were just a bit tenser as they watched Ruby slowly do so since the guy was impaled into the ground currently by Toyohisa's sword. When Ruby was close enough, she was hoping this hooded jerk was ACTUALLY going to be honest with her

"Speak… Ruby muttered as she heard the hooded man chuckle and lean in just a bit closer as it seem just maybe he was going to be-

"The truth is… PSYCHE!" The hooded man simply whispered at first, before suddenly screaming as Ruby flinched back and away from the hooded man; before blinking for just a second

But it was a second enough that Ruby then suddenly felt a gust of wind from behind her on both sides. Along with somewhat seemed like Valmet and Fareeha screaming 'WAIT!' So as Ruby opened her eyes once more. She looked and realized that despite having been stabbed right at this spot. He was gone now, like before. By this point, Ruby was even more irritated with the now gone hooded man. Of course, she should have realized the jerk was going to mess with her for the fun of it. Already the second meeting and she really hated the hooded man. But she let it be before she looked back at the others.

She too noticed that Toyohisa was still a bit perplexed at what just happened as he pulled his sword out. Neo seemed to feel the same as she was looking around for the hooded man. Grumbling angrily from what Ruby could tell. Jeanne and even Scathach followed in suit surprisingly confused also at where the man suddenly went off too. Mister B, well his eye ports were still yellow as he was like the guard dog right now. But what was oddest was Fareeha and Valmet that seemed confused too. BUT, confused in a more 'What did I just do?' sort of way as they looked at their right hands. Ruby though not the smartest out of her group. Did realize that the sudden gust of wind felt familiar. As they felt like her own Aero spell that she like using during a fight at times.

Deciding that right now though, it was probably best for them all to just get out of this district and go see if she could find someone like Glynda to tell about what just happened. That alongside maybe finding Ratchet or Angela for answers on the… other bit of news. So clearing her throat she decided to address her… family. Which aside from Jeanne, Scathach and Mister B even. The rest of her now BIGGER family, was something she's have to get use to if it was true. Which if she was going to be honest, despite her hate towards the hooded man. He had sounded at least quite honest when he explain Ruby's familial relation to the other four with her.

"AHEM!" Ruby loudly coughed, getting the groups attention moments later as all eyes were set on her once more. Ruby seeing she had the floor took the chance to speak. The few sudden issues that she notice with her family currently could be figured out later. Right now was her now dubbed 'Aunt' time with at least her ironically older nephew and two nieces. Her cousin she had a feeling would be the easiest to adjust to this sudden family dynamic of theirs "Alright. Look… kiddos. Um, we…we need to get out of this district and find a few people. For explanations on what just happened and ah… answers. Is that a sound plan for everyone?"

The others, be it from her non-blood related family. To her now possibly blood related relatives. Aside from Mister B, again because he would go with whatever Ruby suggested always. All took a moment or so to think it over. Looking at her, then each other, then the ground and back at her. A few times in a row actually. At the end they all silently agreed on Ruby's plan. For answers more as the possible blood relatives though having a good feeling the hooded man was being honest with them oddly. Simply needed confirmation. Though that didn't mean at least two of the possible blood relatives weren't going to have SOME fun with this news. Those two being Neo and Valmet.

"Hehe. Yeah sounds like a plan cousin." Neo mused, as Ruby flinched a little hearing someone she had meet only a few times so far call her cousin despite Neo probably being the easiest to accept as a blood relative oddly; Valmet didn't help much with the feeling

"And I promise. I'll make sure Fareeha and Toyohisa here behave like good kids." Valmet mused as she wrapped her arms around the other two adults next to her with a big smile. One of utter amusement as her most likely younger Aunt "I'm always good on my word… Aunt Ruby."

"Please… don't say it like that. It makes me sound really old." Ruby pleaded with her first niece, as Valmet chuckled a little. Sighing realizing this was going to be a thing now decided to put some input at least for the future "If anything. You can call me Auntie… yep… Auntie. Okay?"

"Yes Auntie Ruby!" Valmet and now Fareeha, both happily cheered back with big smiles as Ruby got a bit flustered from embarrassment being called Auntie by two older women

"Funny…" Ruby muttered, before she looked at Toyohisa who seemed quiet on this. Probably refusing to call her Aunt or Auntie until at least this could be confirmed. But she also suddenly realized this was golden opportunity to get back at her 'nephew' for being quite rude to her earlier. Taking a quick deep breath, she decided to smile sweetly at the older man "Anyways, are you gonna be coming with us too then. Little Nephew hehe."

"Little… you know I'm older than you brat?!" Toyohisa yelled back. A bit irked as he looked down at the red-themed brat. Refusing for the time, to see her as his Aunt without an actual confirmation on the claim. Even if he already had a feeling it was true. But it seemed Buddha was not on his side as the other ladies decided to join in…on Ruby's side

"Now. Now. That's no way to talk to your Aunt young man. For shame." Jeanne playfully scolded, snickering a little as Toyohisa could already feel that this… this was going to be another new thing now for his lot in his second life

"Agreed. You are so mean to your sweet little Aunt, you should make it up to her somehow for being such a bad. Bad little nephew." Scathach added in. Chuckling a little here and there as she saw Toyohisa's right eye twitch a bit. Looking at the supposed other family members. She decided to inquire their thoughts and already having an idea this was just going to get even more amusing than it already was "How about you three. This is a family matter after all. You all have as much say as we do."

"That is true. Very… VERY true. Hm, well as the other Aunt in this family. I say you dear little nephew as penance for being so mean to my cousin is to give her a piggyback ride ALL the way back out of here." Neo happily stated as she already was quickly accepting that this was the truth and these folks aside from Jeanne, Scathach and Mister B. Were her blood related family members. Before Toyohisa himself could argue, she decided to inquire her nieces thoughts. Smirking as she faced the two "What of you my little nieces. Don't you agree with me, I mean your cousin was SO mean to your Auntie right now. It only seems fitting a piggyback ride for his Auntie Ruby is a good punishment for him. Right?"

"Hm…" Fareeha hummed, pretending to think on it as she looked upon her supposed cousin as both women smirked before smiling with a silent nod to one another. Then back to their supposed Aunt "Yes Aunt Neo!"

"Wonderful!" Neo cheered in glee, already liking this new role of hers as she moved over to her nephew and patted his armored covered lower arm with a big old smirk "You heard the others little nephew. Now kneel down so you can give you sweet Auntie Ruby an apology Piggyback ride."

"But I…" Toyohisa tried to argue, only to stop seeing all the women. Even Jeanne and Scathach smiling ever so sweetly at him… too sweetly and realizing he had no choice now but to agree to this request

You know what no. He didn't have too, he was Shimazu, a warrior from the day he could walk and hold a sword. He WAS not a pushover, no. OH no he wasn't. He was not going to be pushed around by anyone. Especially females, family or not. So Toyohisa was going to stand up straight and proud. Then tell his 'Aunts', a big fat-

.

.

.

"I'm so tall now haha!" Ruby cheered as she was happy, if not once more a bit smug too being carried on her nephews back in piggyback form. Enjoying every second so far of his punishment for being such a meanie to her. She was already super glad to have such a supportive cousin like Neo and supportive nieces even if they were a bit older then her. Smiling she patted the top of Toyohisa head "You're such a kind nephew you know that?"

"Very kind, hey maybe I can get him to give me a piggyback ride someday. It is taxing for me to walk always, being so… short." Neo mused as she and the others were being carried around by Mister B who really did have an impressive amount of strength to carry her, her nieces, Jeanne and Scathach all at once. While not seeming to be affected one bit by the weight of all four of them

The others simply chuckled a bit at the teasing. While Toyohisa grumbled. Not believing that he'd caved in. Then again he didn't realize his Aunts were demons when it came to torture. The torture called poking his arms for ten minutes straight and saying 'Please' and 'Pretty please' the whole time. He'd rather take a knife to the gut then enduring what his Aunt's put him through.

Though as they walked back and out of this odd district of steel. He couldn't help but also feel a little admittedly happy too. Ever since he was saved from death in his old life, then given a second life in that odd world of his after. He'd missed his family even if he would never say it out loud. Especially his uncle, the man who basically raised him. But knowing that he had an, admittedly irritating family in this place. With two of them were little whelps, the other two his cousin who like to tease him. Along with even the non-blood family members who also seemed to take some pleasure teasing him with little quips.

Toyohisa again, couldn't help but feel happy. That he wasn't alone anymore. Heck, maybe he could teach his family a thing or two of the Shimazu clan since in this case technically they'd be part of the clan thanks to their family relation. So in that case…

.

.

.

Maybe this sudden family of his, wasn't SO bad after all…

---

Elsewhere, standing upon a tall rocky mountainside. Stood one Gilgamesh, King of Hero's. Looking from afar upon the town that housed those four… whores. Whores that held in their hand, treasures that were rightfully HIS. It did not matter where he came from or that his treasures were from another realm of their own.

In every right, all was his if he wished it so. Be it weapons, gold or even people. Once he finished torturing those four whores to death. He would make their little Keyblades learn that HE was their only true master. Then he'd kill the rest in that little town, all aside from his prized Saber. Oh yes, he knew she was there by this point. He could feel the power she always radiated even from where he stood.

He would again keep Saber alive, alive and prep to fix that little stubborn pride issue of hers before she would become his wife. Not that he had yet to offer. But she would learn who she belongs to either way. Be it from a painful lesson or other methods he could employ. The end result of it all would be all that mattered and it would be in his favor as it should be always.

Though as he looked upon the town from afar sill, he wondered if his first strike forces were ready to attack. It would be the first test of many to see if the town's residents were worth truly wasting his time on. If they died in this initial attack or at least most. He would have the others finish the job and bring back those he wishes to deal with personally. Though he hoped his picked force commanders would arrive soon to give him the details of their readiness. Hopefully they'd be here soon, he hated having to be forced to wait on matters like these.

"Hehe, hiya boss!"

That was the voice of one of Gilgamesh's force commanders. That being the oddly red creature know as Carnage. With him was his black-themed counterpart Venom. Then with those two was another psycho who usually ended up being hard to find most of the time, that and being from that rather interesting world Raven was from. This man being that of Tyrain. Then second to last was one of Maleficent's people. Ser Tyren Loghain. The last one was getting ready on his own currently, the king of hero's assumed.

Still Gilgamesh was happy enough his force commanders seemed ready. Looking upon the four of five here. He thought back on his views with these particular allies for the time being.

First when it came to the one called Carnage. This one was… an interesting case. Rather that, be good or bad. Gilgamesh didn't know honestly. Not that his hands were clean of blood, as a King had MUCH blood on his hand. Quite a bit made by his own actions when he found it necessary to join his men in battle. That or when he was simply bored. It was usually a fifty-fifty back in those younger days of his. Still Carnage seemed a little TOO gun-ho on killing which could be a liability at times. But in this case at least it was more favorable. Even if Gilgamesh thought Carnage could tone down his blood lust just a bit more to his level. He may be blood thirsty himself at times. But at least he had control over that blood lust.

Then came Venom, the more muscular and larger body wise of the two called 'Symbiotes'. Gilgamesh had to admit to, aside from the rather deep obsession with devouring the flesh of others and more importantly; eating their brains of all things. Compared to Carnage. Gilgamesh considered Venom the more 'sane' of the two. I you'd considered what sane meant when applied to the symbiote duo entails to one's own definition of sane in the first place. Either way. Gilgamesh made a note to keep an eye on Venom now and in the future. Just in case his more cannibalistic tendencies started to show up. One could not lead an army with no able bodies after all.

Third of his current choose force commanders, Tyrain. Who was one of the men Gilgamesh knew little about actually as the man seemed to vanish for a while before just showing up again. Why, the King of Hero's didn't know. But it irked him. He would have killed the scorpion tailed man early on IF he hadn't need the bodies. That and he had quite the respect for the man, if only for his rather deep loyalty to his Queen, Salem. A woman he was ever so curious to meet, since the insane faunas seemed to revere her as a Goddess. Again he'd usually killed people like this for many reasons, but considered the circumstances. It was better to keep Tyrain alive.

After that. Gilgamesh looked upon the fourth of his force commanders. One of Maleficent's men and one of the few he'd come to like. In an odd way, maybe it was because out of all his current chosen force commanders. Ser Tyren Loghain seemed to be the only one with extensive military history and DIDN'T act like so called 'THE HOT SHIT'. Thanks to the grail knowledge he knew wha that meant of course. But it was such a crass saying if you asked him. His knowledge was also the reason he was able to understand some of the teens on their team. Even if they're weren't too many to begin with. That aside, again it also helped the good Ser seemed to show him due respect even if he admitted to not bowing to him. If because of his loyalty to his own royalty or more to the fact his country itself. Gilgamesh could respect the man for his honesty in that regard. Still out of his current force commanders. This man was the one Gilgamesh respected the most.

Then came the last of his force commanders. One he didn't care for MUCH, but only was using him because he was one of his other well respected allies own second in command. Starscream. Now again, Gilgamesh didn't care much for the winged Decepticon for many reason. From the snark he gave behind everyone backs. His own a few times and should be happy that he himself hadn't skewered the snark bot for some of his backhanded whispered taunts. A few other very good reasons too warranted Gilgamesh disliking to Starscream, but the worst. Was that Gilgamesh could easily tell, Starscream was a true snake in metal skin. Ready to do what it took to be on top. He'd asked Megatron why he even kept Starscream around and it was mainly for some slight forms of entertainment when he even got bored at times. Still even if Starscream had agreed to this, Gilgamesh was going to keep an eye on the bot.

All thoughts aside, Gilgamesh looked back at the town. Getting a bit excited even more now at what battle would wait for them. He hoped the towns citizens would passed this first test, he truly did if only from curiosity at how much punishment those people could take before he broke their spirits. Still as he looked upon his force commanders once more time. He thought over how this first attack would commence once more. Just to be safe, he knew he was excellent with planning attacks. But it never hurt to make sure once or twice more.

So far he'd done the first part of his plan. To send in some of Maleficents Heartless she'd lent him, they'd start off the attack and keep the refuges busy. Giving him and his forces time to arrive; then attack hopefully when they JUST got done fighting off the Heartless. So they could be tested full on how they handle the primary first attack went in various states of fatigue.

Though the second part of the plan will play out then. All of it handled on Starscream leading at least three of the… 'Special' units Shockwave, Knockout and the newest of them Char; had been working on. To be honest it was boon Shockwave had found that rather interesting pond months ago in their large cave fortress. Though the little pony that had been stuck with it… well even Gilgamesh didn't care to KNOW exactly what happen to it when Shockwave decided she was worth more experimenting on. That was two months ago and again Gilgamesh himself even, didn't truly want to know how the pony looked now. But even so the pond helped out with the special little project of Shockwaves. Still, once Starscream entered alongside the projects of theirs. Then last part of the attack plan would commence.

That being him and he rest of his force commanders coming in for the attack. Gilgamesh would even go easy on them. See if they can survive his most basic of his attacks, though if Saber and some of the other servants showed up during this part of his plan. Then he may got a bit harder with his attacks against them at least. But once that part of the plan had commenced. Gilgamesh again, could only hope these refuges and those pesky four brats would survive this time. If not well…

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It would be SUCH a boring stay in this place then…

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And here we are. The good old end notes of the chapter that I really hope most of you read. Because it explain a lot when it comes to my future plans, etc.

That said, I did say this was going to explain one of the main important reasons on why this chapter took longer then I'd have liked. A few reasons, well more like two to three.

Statistic aside. Reason one is that I for the longest time wondered if I should include the small I guess you could call side-games for the series between KH 1, 2 and 3. I ended up on making that a no, expect for two stories, maybe three. But for now at least, two of the stories.

Those two being Birth by Sleep, which most of you can guess who's gonna be the main stars of that story aside from Aqua and Terra. While the second story Chain of Memories.

BUT, before you assume they're gonna be similar to the games. Let me explain.

So for Birth by Sleep, for the most part it's gonna be a pretty similar premise story wise. Worlds will be similar, with a few good added ones for the dubbed 'Proto' Team RWBY. So there's that.

Now for Chain of Memories. I know this is gonna sound a bit bad for some of you. But... I never really liked it. There I said it, sure it was unique gameplay wise and the story defiantly explained a lot going into KH2 back in the day. I will not deny that, but I don't know. I just never really cared for it much. But again maybe I'm just weird like that.

That said, I am going to do Chain of Memories, but incorporating elements of the story in a custom-ish story of my own. Since if you consider the fact this universe our girls of team RWBY find themselves in. Is the Eleventh version of the original KH universe, that is so messed up by now that they is no way to revert it all back. Then you're going to have to assume and accept tha things will not be totally the same one way or another. It's just a fact of the state of this current version of the universe I've made.

All that told now. I hope you understand my reasons here, I know I can't make you all happy. But I try and I've personally always believed that a story is there to tell a tale. A tale where some of it's content people will not like at all, and will not satisfy many too at times. But, that it's still a tale that tells the truth of it's words and will NOT be changed to fit anyone's personal needs. What I'm tryin to say is that

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'The story is, as it is told.' Simply as that.

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Anyways off that subject, I also have one other reason too for the delay. I was for the past month or so more. Kind of rearranging how this story will go. You'll be surprised when I get to my end goal at what I decided to do. Also I decided to make certain chapter shorter. Mainly the chapters were it's NOT as important to the plot. So hopefully in the future you'll know when you see the longer chapters come in. That they are the more important chapters. Again hopefully I can keep to this somewhat new style of chapter length.

Well got that all off my chest, now I hope you all enjoyed this chapter and I hope you enjoy what I have next in store. For real though, don' feel shy to PM me or leave a honest review on my story. I'm super willing to hear you out and discuss whatever you questions/criticism are.

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Almost forgot. But like like last time. This is just a quick list of now Ruby's family tree so far.

-[Rose Family Tree]-

Matriarchs:

. Ruby Rose

Cousins:

.Neo

.No date found yet

.No data found yet

.No data found yet

Nephews:

.Toyohisa Shimazu

Nieces:

.Valmet

.Fareeha Amari

.No data found yet

.No data found yet

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Until the next chapter is up and ready. I wish you all the best day's ahead and wish you all to stay safe in these odd times of ours. Till then, Au revoir!