Disclaimer: I do not own the blazblue franchise or the RWBY franchise they belong to their respective owners
(A/N)
I've noticed that I've received several questions regarding Es and her role in this story. The good news is that she will appear in this story but as things stand in terms of concepts. Its too early for her to make an appearance in this story. I have a general idea of when she'll appear and what I can confirm is that it won't be before the volume 7 portion of this story.
Also I'm going to need some help with knowing about Es. I do know that she's the guardian of the Azure thanks to a playthrough of Central Fiction and the reviews. But I would like to know more about her. Since I've noticed that some of you guys are well-versed into the Blazblue lore. I was hoping you all might be able to give me the details that I've missed. The reason I'm asking for help is because Aside from her role and appearance in Central Fiction. I don't know a lot about her compared to the other characters.
Not helping matters is that even though she appeared in Central Fiction. I know that she is one of the main characters in the Xblaze series. I am more than willing to research the character so I can know more about her. But youtube, wiki sites, and TV tropes can only tell me so much and I don't want to miss any details. I know that playing the games is an option, but there a few problems that prevents me from playing the Xblaze games. I have enough knowledge about her that gives me a good idea of when she'll appear. But I want to know more for quality purposes. I can take a few liberties with her, but I want them to be at least believable.
*** VOLUME 8 SPOILERS***
I find the timing of RWBY canon officially confirming a trans character to be an interesting coincidence. Because a week after I released chapter 63 and confirmed that Mai is a trans character. May Marigold from RWBY confirmed that she's a trans character in the show. This isn't too major to the overall story, I just find the timing to be interesting. It does present me with some ideas for how the two will interact when I get to volume 7 of the story.
Also, I'm fully aware of the fact that twitter confirmed this detail first. But for something like that, I would prefer it to be confirmed in the show. Which will have more of an impact.
As for Tsubaki's secret, her family are VERY close to each other and this was confirmed in the Blazblue games. As for why its not a big deal amongst the nobles. I explained it in the author's notes.
Chapter 64 Intensified
(Anima Forest)
To prepare for the mission to bring in Ragna. Winter spent time looking into whatever information she has on the infamous individual. From remembering the moments of her own fight against him. To watching the tournament fights that Ragna fought in. As an extra measure, it was recommended by General Ironwood to bring in Potemkin as an extra measure since nobody really knows the full extent of Ragna's capabilities. Initially, Winter knew what to expect with the information she has acquired in preparation for the mission. Unfortunately, when Ragna released his second seal, Winter realized how powerful and by extension how dangerous Ragna the Bloodedge truly is.
After Ragna released his second seal, he dashed towards Potemkin in a blinding speed and delivered a powerful uppercut and was able to launch him into the air. Potemkin was able to recover, but realized that Ragna has gotten much stronger. Before Potemkin could use the dust jets attached to his armor. Ragna was able to jump high into the air and swung his sword down before Potemkin had the chance to block the attack. A brief second later, Potemkin fell to the ground at an intense speed. Fortunately, Potemkin still has a good amount of aura and can still keep fighting. The bad news is that he now sees the power Ragna has and is grateful that Winter has asked for his help when she did.
Once Potemkin recovered, Winter realized that as things stands. Ragna will be able to overpower the both of them soon enough. After she realized this, Winter was able to quickly think of a plan to change tactics and keep Ragna off balance. So that the two of them will be able to stand a better chance of capturing Ragna to bring him back.
"Potemkin airtime." Winter commanded as she ran to the large man. Once she got close, Potemkin was able to grab Winter and threw her into the air. Once Winter was in the air, she used her glyphs to summon a white Manticore Grimm and rode on its back. While Winter was riding on its back, the summoned Grimm proceeded to fire at Ragna, knowing that Potemkin can either evade or endure the blast.
While Ragna was dealing with both Winter and Potemkin. Jaune saw the entire thing and found himself both amazed and worried by the raw power Ragna is displaying. The reason he's amazed is because he is greatly impressed to see how strong Ragna is when he releases his seal. But the main reason he is afraid is because the last time he saw an major display of power like that is when he went berserk after his match during the tournament. But thinking about the current situation at hand, Jaune pushed those thoughts aside and made a motion to go help Ragna. But before he could go too far, Lambda stopped him from getting closer.
"It's a two on one fight, I have to go help before he gets either overwhelmed or loses control." Jaune told Lambda
"Both Bullet and Bang need your help. Use your semblance to help them heal and recover. Besides, when Ragna released his second seal another problem arose." Lambda said before she quickly jumped towards the forest and managed to quickly cut down several Centinel that popped up from the ground trying to make their way towards the group.
"When Ragna releases his seal, he becomes a magnet for the Grimm. This needs to end quickly before more Grimm come and start to overwhelm us." Lambda said before she started to attack more Grimm that started coming
"Right got it." Jaune said before he started to use his semblance to heal Bang and Bullet.
(Destroyed settlement)
Ruby is very happy to not only see Qrow. But to also see that he has arrived to help her and her friends in their time of need. She suspected that Relius was stronger than he looked. But for him to be able to beat both Nora and Ren. While also look unfazed by the fight surprised Ruby at the strength of the threat they are facing. Not making things any easier, the masked man was able to bring back her friend but not in the way she wanted or expected. At the sight of Qrow, Ruby started to believe that they all have a chance at the threat. That they'll be able to overcome Relius and travel to Haven together as a group. Yet looking at Relius made Ruby realized that the masked man didn't seem nervous at Qrow's arrival.
"Qrow Branwen, brother of Raven Branwen who is the current leader of the Branwen tribe. You have gained a respectable reputation for your prowess as a Huntsman. But alas, despite being stronger you are still insignificant and quite frankly beneath me." Relius told Qrow in a calm tone
"I'm insignificant, yet your going out of your way to get to my niece. Why don't you move along or else get ready for a beating." Qrow told Relius while grabbing his sword
"This silver-eyed girl has gotten the attention of someone quite significant. Surely you have an idea of who she is. Or more specifically the individual who formed the group that you're a part of." Relius said causing Qrow to give a focused gaze
"I see, you work for Salem." Qrow said before he started to approach him
"Fighting an individual of your skill can be a nice change of pace for me. While my newfound puppet, keep your niece busy. This might present the opportunity for me to bring in both the silver-eyed girl and the bearer of the Power of Order." Relius said before Qrow charged towards him and swung his sword.
Reacting quickly, Relius was able to block the sword attack and didn't look bothered by the attempt. After Qrow's attack was blocked, he proceeded to attack Relius while making sure not to give the masked man an opening. While Qrow was attacking, a pincer materialized from Relius's coat and caught Qrow's sword. After Qrow's sword Harbinger was caught, Relius proceeded to kick Qrow back a small distance. Before Qrow could react, a large fist was materialized from Relius's cape and was able to hit Qrow and knocked him back even further.
After getting knocked back by the large fist, Qrow was able to quickly recover and proceeded to fire at Relius using his weapon. Unfortunately, Relius was able to quickly avoid each of the gun shots and started to make his way towards Qrow. Once he got close, another item was materialized and this time it was a Qrow was surrounded by a set of gears and in a quick second, the gears began to spin rapidly at Qrow and after a few seconds. The gears dematerialized and Qrow's aura flickered for a few seconds. When Relius proceeded to deliver a strong follow-up attack. Fortunately, Qrow was able to see the attack coming and managed to block a materialized mechanical fist.
"How can . . . . ." Qrow muttered before Relius made a smirk. Once Qrow noticed the smirk, he quickly jumped back and was able to avoid several gears that were being materialized.
Qrow didn't have enough time to think of a follow up plan, because a brief second later. Ignis teleported above Qrow and made a downward attack towards him. Reacting quickly, Qrow was able to avoid the attack and after doing so. He transformed Harbinger into its scythe form and started to relentlessly attack Ignis while keeping a moderate distance. As if guided by experience, Ignis was able to block each of Qrow's attacks. Similar to how a Huntress would be able to block Qrow's attacks.
While Qrow was dealing with Ignis, both Ren and Nora was able to recover from earlier and at the sight of Relius. The two decided to run towards Relius with the plan to attack him while they have an opening. Unfortunately, before either of them could land their attacks against Relius. The masked man instinctively dodged their attacks and materialized two mechanical fists and proceeded to hit the two of them simultaneously.
"Stay away, all of you!" Qrow yelled while fighting against Ignis before he avoided several materialized gears near him. After Qrow avoided several more of Ignis's attacks and the materialized gears. Relius started to talk
"I see, your semblance is capable of altering reality to bring misfortune to both yourself and those around you. Your semblance of bad luck is capable of altering reality. You'll make for a worthy subject for experimentation Qrow." Relius told Qrow in a calm tone
"How could . . . ." Qrow said before Relius spoke further
"My semblance is called soul read, I can read into your soul. Since aura is the manifestation of the soul. I can very easily read your aura and learn your semblance at first glance. Though if I take a closer look, I can learn so much more. I must admit, that not everyone can survive the process. That girl from a few months ago is proof of that." Relius said which surprised the group
"Then how do you explain that mechanical doll and those gears?" Qrow asked in a curious tone while on guard
"You've met Rachel Alucard, surely you figured out one other possibility." Relius said causing Qrow to have a shocked look on his face
"It can't be . . . . magic." Qrow said in a tone of fear
"If you thought that the Maidens and Ozpin are the only ones who can utilize magic. Then you and those of Ozpin's inner circle are very much short sighted. If you want further proof, then ask yourself this. Why is it that I haven't been affected by your semblance?" Relius asked causing Qrow to be surprised before Relius spoke further
"I've developed various forms of protection against beings who can alter various forms of reality. It was initially supposed to protect me from the interference of the Vampire. But it appears that the protection extends to your semblance as well. Though I can't say the same for the children." Relius said before Qrow turned to look at both Ruby and Jin who are still fighting against Penny. When he looked further, he noticed a large piece of lumber was about to fall on top of Ruby.
Reacting quickly, Qrow decided to run and to Ruby and was able to destroy the lumber before it fell on Ruby. After destroying the lumber, him, Ruby, and Jin started to aggressively block Penny's blades when she relentlessly attacked the three of them. After a few seconds, Qrow was able to quickly dodge a few of Penny's sword attacks and knocked Penny away with his scythe.
"Don't come near me, its for your own good." Qrow told Ruby and Jin before he found himself blocking one of Ignis's attacks.
"Penny has a history with your niece Qrow. So let's keep things between them. Besides, I would like to observe your semblance much more closely." Relius said as the fight continued.
(Weiss's Room)
For what felt like several hours, Weiss has been hearing her father consistently voice his complaints at everything that happened during the fundraiser. Weiss wasn't surprised at her father ignoring the fact that the Trophy Wife insulted two of her friends and carelessly brought up their deep personal secrets. Along with the fact that nobody really discussed what to do to help Vale. All Jacques was worried about is the image of the company and how Weiss presented herself.
"This is unacceptable in every sense of the words. First you allowed yourself to lose your temper in the presence of many significant individuals. But you came remarkably close to attacking one of the attendees. Do you have any idea of what your stunt has cost us? I'm not talking about Lien, but our name and reputation. It's going to take a lot of time for me to convince the right people to let this go. You have brought shame to our name, especially after I've worked hard to build it up." Jacques told Weiss in an angry tone
"Father, I have done nothing but uphold the family name. The same family name that your actions have brought shame to and that you have married into." Weiss stated to her father which quickly angered him
"HOW DARE YOU!" Jacques said before he immediately slapped Weiss across the face. After slapping her, Jacques thought for second what he's done before he composed himself
"This behavior of yours is incredibly disappointing. It appears that allowing you to go to Beacon. You have been influences by the wrong kinds of people. Personally I blame myself, I should have been more attentive with regards to your parenting and I see that you have gone down the wrong path. Further proof of my failings as your father." Jacques told Weiss in a calm tone
"There's nothing for me here, I want to leave Atlus. I don't want to stay here anymore." Weiss told her father
"Weren't you listening to me? I said that I should have been more attentive to you as a father. Something that I plan to fully rectify. You do not know the lengths I've gone to keep this family together. Continue going down this road and you'll be just like Winter and will contribute to the divide of our family. Siding with your sister, does more harm than good." Jacques briefly explained maintaining his earlier tone
"I'm not choosing a side, I'm simply making the choice to do more than just sit around in Atlus talking about things that are pointless. I've made the decision to continue to uphold the family name and honor as a Huntress." Weiss stated to her father in a bold tone
"You won't be doing anything Weiss, especially leaving Atlus. As of this moment, you are not to leave the Manor grounds unless I give permission. You are going to remain here until you and I come to an understanding about your future. The staff here will help enforce these new policies." Jacques told Weiss which surprised her
"What?" Weiss said in a surprised tone
"The fact that you believe that you can do and have whatever you want is a clear sign of our failure as parents. Like I said, it's a situation I fully plan to correct and I'm going to make sure you get the parenting you so badly need. After all, you are still a child, and when children misbehave. They need to be punished" Jacques told Weiss before he made a motion to leave. As Jacques was leaving, Weiss decided to speak up
"Father, I am the heiress to the Schnee Dust Company. If you keep me locked up here, people are going to ask questions and it won't be long before people look into this." Weiss stated to her father before he turned around and addressed her
"Not if you're no longer the heiress to the Schnee Dust Company. Your brother Whitley will now become the heir to the company." Jacques stated which shocked Weiss
"How can you . . . ." Weiss said before her father continued
"The trauma you've endured while defending Beacon has affected you greatly. Therefore you've made the hard but necessary decision to turn the company over to your brother." Jacques said to Weiss which surprised her further before Jacques spoke further
"It's time that you woke up from your delusions and face reality." Jacques said before he left Weiss's room. A quick second after he left, Weiss noticed Whitley standing outside the Hallway as if he was listening in. After seeing this, Weiss had a thoughtful look on her face and decided to confront Whitley.
"WHITLEY!" Weiss called out to her brother
"Hello dear sister, is there something the matter?" Whitley asked in a concerned tone
"You have been nothing but supportive ever since I've returned." Weiss told her brother
"Why if being nice to my older sister is a crime. Then I supposed that I am guilty as charged." Whitley responded in a calm tone
"You never liked either me or Winter. So it would come out of nowhere for you to suddenly be nice to us. Unless you were hoping that this would happen." Weiss said realizing the situation
"It would be foolish to go against Father." Whitley told Weiss in a slightly sinister tone
"I can't believe you, how could you do this?" Weiss told Whitley in a disheartened and saddened tone
"You have a lot of nerve to say that. After all, you have Winter to stand by you. She has the foolish General to mentor her. While dear mother has her drinking to comfort her. I didn't have anyone to help me deal with father's less than stellar moments. But now all of my patients and endurance has paid off. Father will give me proper guidance to ensure that the SDC is in good hands with a bright future. Don't worry Weiss, in time you'll see that this is for the best." Whitley said causing Weiss to run to her room and lay down on her bed in tears.
As Weiss was crying in her bed, the weight of the entire situation started to dawn on her and she realized how bad things are. The nobles of Atlus not caring or doing anything about the things that matters. Being separated from her friends that are more like family to her. Especially the Fall of Beacon that she herself was there for. At this moment, Weiss is also realizing that she truly has nobody on her side in Atlus. Though the more she thought about it, the more she noticed how similar she is to a certain infamous individual.
When Weiss thought more about how many nobles in Atlus, including her father. Doesn't care truly care about Beacon or Vale and would much rather talk about things that doesn't matter. She found herself getting angry and developed a stronger drive to do something about it. Yet as she realized this, she started to understand Ragna's core motivations a bit more and saw why he does what he does. Though she doesn't agree with his methods, she understands why he does the things he do. Especially if there are too many influential who doesn't care about those that are in need of help. Once Weiss regained her resolve, she decided to rearrange her room and reclaim her sword. With her weapon in hand, she knew what she must do for the sake of her future.
(Anima Forest)
Thanks to Lambda killing the nearby Grimm. It didn't take long for Jaune to be able to heal both Bang and Bullet with his semblance. The good news is that most of their injuries has been healed thanks to their recovered aura. The bad news is that they need to think of a plan to resolve the current situation. Because the Grimm not only keeps coming to the group with increased numbers. But Ragna is holding his own against both Winter and Potemkin.
Winter on the other hand has spent a good deal of time attacking Ragna from the sky on the summoned Manticore Grimm with various energy blasts. Ragna made many attempts to counterattack Winter's aerial attacks. Unfortunately, each attempt was stopped by Potemkin. Every time the large man tried to deal a major attack against Ragna. He would be quickly overpowered. The level of power that Ragna released has admittedly caught Potemkin off-guard. But he is determined to fulfill his mission.
After pushing Potemkin back with a sword attack. Ragna quickly avoided another aerial attacks from the sky. Once the energy blast was avoided, Ragna thought of plan to deal with both Winter and Potemkin in one move. After thinking of a plan, Ragna started to dash to Potemkin and proceeded to aggressively attack him with his sword. After a few more seconds, Ragna instinctively avoided another energy blast from Winter and as a result Potemkin endured the blast.
Seeing a good opportunity, Ragna transformed his sword to its scythe form and transferred a large amount of his aura to his scythe. After doing so, Ragna decided to take a page from Ruby and used his scythe to both attack Potemkin and launch himself into the air. The moment Winter saw Ragna in the air, she quickly realized what Ragna planned to do but was unable to do anything except maneuver in the air and hope for the best.
Once Ragna saw Winter, he swung his energized scythe and released many slash waves at Winter. At the sight of the slash waves, Winter did the best she could avoid the numerous slash waves that was being made by Ragna. Unfortunately, she was unable to avoid all of the slash waves and in a few seconds. She was hit by several slash waves which destroyed her summon.
After her summon was destroyed, Winter quickly summoned a glyph so she common another Grimm to help her in the fight. Unfortunately, before the glyph could be completed, Ragna transformed his scythe to its sword form and used the gun function to shoot at Winter with aa powerful blast. Fortunately for Winter, her glyph was able to defend against the blast. The bad news is that she was still hit by a good portion of the blast and fell to the ground from a moderately height. Winter was able to recover, but she realized that Ragna much stronger and more skilled than she expected.
"Why can't you see that coming with us to Atlus is the best thing you can do Ragna? What could possibly be doing that's worth all this trouble?" Winter asked Ragna after she recovered
"There's something I need to do and some people I need to go after. If I go with you to Atlus. Then I won't be able to accomplish anything. Besides, I've learned a lot of things and I don't trust the General." Ragna stated to Winter which angered her
"You have a lot of nerve talking about trust. Especially since the fall of Beacon is entirely your fault." Winter said which quickly angered Ragna
"What did you say bitch?!" Ragna angrily yelled to Winter
"You heard what I said, you have the power of the Black Beast. The same power that almost destroyed the world almost 100 years ago. Unlike you, the General is actually doing something about the threats to the world. While you've done nothing but add to the problems and make things worse. The General is even willing to look past what you've done and help your family. I heard how your adopted mother was attacked and your sister is traumatized. But in my opinion, you deserve to share the blame for what happened to them as well." Winter explained angering Ragna even further
"YOU DON'T KNOW ANYTHING!" Ragna said before he started to generate more power and caused a small tremor in the area, that's followed by a large explosion of energy. As Ragna's raw power increased, the ground not only shook. But more Grimm started to arrive in large numbers. Though a few seconds after the Grimm appeared, they started to have red markings all over their body and started to mutate.
(?)
The individual has been traveling the Anima region for a good deal of time. Though he doesn't stay in populated areas. He has always managed to find a way to help villages that are in need of help. By killing either the Grimm or the Bandits, that are set on making life harder for both humans and Faunus. As the individual was walking, he sensed a powerful surge of energy and looked at where it came from. When he saw the energy explosion, he balled up his fist and felt enraged. Once the anger was felt, the individual knew where he needed to go and what he had to do.
"THE BEAST!" The individual said as he made his way towards the target.
(Anima Forest)
"Something strange is going on with the Grimm. The last time I saw this was during the Breach." Bang said to everyone
"Are you telling me that Ragna is not only attracting the Grimm. But he's making them abnormal?" Jaune said in a surprised tone
"Yeah, the color of the markings are different, but are becoming abnormal." Bullet answered before she blasted away another Grimm
"Ragna must be calmed down before more Grimm come and evolve. Bang, you must use the functions of your nail to disable his power." Lambda said which Bang nodded to
"PHOENIX RETTENJO!" Bang yelled causing the giant nail to dematerialize and merge with Bang changing his aura to yellow and red.
After the merge, Bang went for Ragna at an intense speed. Though before he could get too close, one of the red abnormal Grimm attacked Bang with a leap. He was able to avoid the attack and destroyed the abnormal Grimm shortly after. But quickly noticed that he has gotten the attention of the majority of the red abnormal Grimm.
This isn't good, Ragna is attracting the Grimm to us and is making them stronger. Bang can't get to him and we're being overwhelm. Jaune, since you're the strategist among us. I'm open to any ideas that you'll have." Bullet said as she was attacking the red Abnormal Grimm
"I'm trying, but all of my ideas will result in either us having to face a large hoard of Grimm or we end up at the mercy of Winter and Potemkin. Bang's giant nail not making a difference between friend and foe doesn't help things either." Jaune said as he was fighting against more of the red abnormal Grimm
Ragna spent a good deal of time fighting against both Winter and Potemkin. Since Winter can no longer rely on aerial tactics. She decided to instead stick to her original plan. Since Potemkin is more durable and is essentially a walking tank. He'll be able to take the force of Ragna's attacks for as long as possible. While Winter will use her speed and agility to both periodically attack and distract Ragna. Which will prevent him from using his full strength against either of them.
Potemkin figured out Winter's plan and spent time enduring Ragna's attacks. While throwing a few punches every chance he got. He perfectly understood why Ragna had to be brought in. Especially after seeing the raw power he displayed. The problem though is that he isn't sure how much longer he can hold his own against an empowered Ragna. The fight with the other kids didn't require too much of his strength. But that was mainly due to the fact that they were inexperienced by comparison.
Unfortunately, despite the strength of his semblance. Potemkin's aura was slowly being drained and he was gradually getting to his limit. Though his semblance strengthens him while he is on the ground. The drawback is that while his semblance is activated, his aura recovers much more slowly than usual. So the moment his aura breaks, he will be completely vulnerable. Winter is using her speed and skills to keep Ragna off balance. Ragna on the other hand is adapting to their new tactics, so at this point, its become a war of attrition. Before either Winter or Potemkin realized it, Ragna was able to increase his speed and deliver a powerful attack against Potemkin and knocked him down. After Potemkin was knocked down, his aura broke and Ragna turned to look at Winter.
"Now for you." Ragna said before he dashed towards Winter and clashed blades with her. The clash didn't last too long, because in a brief second, Ragna was able to overpower her and knock her back into a nearby tree. Winter was able to quickly recover, but noticed that she was running out of aura and figured that Ragna wasn't even close to losing his aura. Fortunately, Winter knew that all the both of them needed was time to recover their aura.
"What are you going to do, kill me like you killed all those people?" Winter said as she was wielding her swords
"That wasn't my fault Winter and you know it." Ragna angrily responded to Winter
"You lost control of an ancient power and ended many lives that day. For once in your life, do the right thing and come with us to Atlus. Or are you content with causing more people to suffer." Winter stated angering Ragna further
"HOW DARE YOU!" Ragna yelled causing him to release an even greater surge of power that was felt by everyone in the area. As Ragna released his power, the red abnormal Grimm were both getting stronger and looked much more visibly enraged. Lambda tried to attack one of the enraged abnormal Grimm. But it was much more durable than before and was able to knock Lambda to the side. She was able to recover, but the rest of team RBAL were starting to be overwhelmed and didn't know what to do.
"RAGNA STOP!" An old gruff voice said before aa short figure jumped down in from of Ragna and proceeded to deliver a single powerful slash that was able to both knock down Ragna and break his aura at the same time. When they all looked to see who the figure is, they saw a short cat Faunus who had sheathed his sword after attacking Ragna. When Ragna looked further, he saw that it was his master Jubei.
After Ragna's aura broke, the red abnormal Grimm started to gradually get weaker. Yet Jubei didn't give any of them a chance to do anything. Because he proceeded to quickly decimate all of the nearby Grimm at an intense speed. Everyone who saw this were amazed at how strong Jubei is. While also cautious since anything could happen. After the Grimm were dealt with, Jubei stood in front of Ragna.
"Master, what are you?" Ragna said in a weakened tone
"I was in the area, but if I'd have known you would release your second seal. I would have come much sooner." Jubei said before he looked at Winter
"Who are you?" Winter asked while on guard
"We haven't met, but you do know of me. My name's Jubei and I know who you are Winter Schnee. In fact, I reckon you and General Ironwood had a run-in with an old friend of mine." Jubei told Winter causing the Military Specialist to have a surprised look on her face.
"Under most circumstances, I'd be honored to meet one of the Six Heroes. But I am here to bring in Ragna. Judging from your earlier attack, I assume you're here to help me with my mission?" Winter asked causing Jubei to shake his head
"You'll judge wrong, bringing in Ragna is the biggest mistake you can make. So I came here to prevent his capture." Jubei stated to Winter
"Then we'll have to fight you too." Winter said as she was taking up a stance
"Winter, you and your friend were at your limit fighting Ragna and his friends. So what makes you think you guys will stand a chance against me. Besides, I have a good idea of why the General wants Ragna captured. So how about an offer so that you won't return to Atlus empty handed." Jubei said which intrigued Winter and made Potemkin curious
"The General thinks that having Ragna will give him a chance to have some answers. But I know for certain that it won't do any good. So how about I go with you and your friend to Atlus. So that I will be able to answer all of General Ironwood's questions and address his concerns. In exchange, Ragna is to be left alone." Jubei suggested causing Ragna to speak up
"Master, you don't need to go with them. I can handle this, its my mess and my responsibility." Ragna said as he was getting up
"An enticing offer, but like you implied earlier, you much stronger than me and Potemkin. So how will we know you won't try to escape?" Winter asked in a cautious tone
"Because if I escape you'll go after Ragna again. Only this time, he could lose control of his power and end up killing you and Potemkin. While also get more of the General's attention. If by some off chance you do succeed in bringing him in. None of you will know anything and will be stuck guessing. But with one of the Six Heroes in custody who is willing to answer all of the General's question. Who is also very capable in a fight. Who wouldn't pass up the offer on a silver platter." Jubei explained causing Winter to think for a moment before making a decision
"Luckily for you, I was told I can handle this mission however I see fit. Very well Jubei, I accept your offer." Winter said agreeing to the terms
"Master, you don't need to . . . " Ragna said before Jubei interrupted him
"Don't worry Ragna, it doesn't look like it. But this old cat knows what he's doing, so your going to have trust me on this. Bit of advice before I go, I know where your going and the idea is sound. But you and your friends are going to have to hurry. That power surge you released has gotten the attention of someone who is a lot less merciful than I am. So time is no longer on your side." Jubei explained to Ragna before he left with Winter and Potemkin
"No master, I can still . . ." Ragna said while struggling to stand up before Jaune went to him
"There's nothing we can do right now. We have to rest and recover." Jaune said calming Ragna down
"Damn it." Ragna muttered as Jaune was using his semblance to heal him and restore his aura
(Destroyed Settlement)
Qrow's arrival has made things easier for both Jin and Ruby to focus the majority of their attention on Penny. Unfortunately, this was short-lived as Relius proved to be more than a match for the veteran Huntsman. Making things even harder is that the crimson mechanical doll has managed to subdue both Ren and Nora. Proving Jin's suspicions that it is more than a simple weapon. Ruby is helping him fight against the reprogrammed Penny. But because Ruby refuses to deal a critical blow against Penny. Then this will be a war of attrition. But because Penny doesn't have to worry about organic limitations like stamina. The fight needed to end soon or else in the long run, they will be sure to lose.
After the two spent time deflecting Penny's swords and lasers. Jin was able to notice something attached to Penny's swords. When he took a better look, he noticed several wires attached and figured out a plan to deal with Penny. This time, instead of deflecting Penny's blades. He proceeded to focus on dodging each of her attacks and once he was in a good position. Jin used his sword to deliver several cuts on the wires and in an instant. The wires started to become frozen and a trail of ice was being led to Penny.
When Ruby saw this, she realized what Jin was doing and knew that as things stand. Penny would be completely frozen in a matter of seconds. Ruby knows that she's being controlled by Relius. But the only thing that Ruby sees, is a friend who needs help. Who is forced to doing something against their free will. Very similar to what happened with Ragna several months ago. Knowing that people will see a machine instead of an actual person. Strengthened Ruby's resolve for the action she's about to take.
Before the ice could reach Penny, Ruby used her scythe to cut Penny's wires. Thus cutting off the wires that's connected to her swords. As a result, Ruby was able to save her controlled friend and disarmed her at the same time.
"Why did you cut the wires off? If you hadn't done that, then she would have been dealt with in a single move." Jin stated to Ruby
"Penny is my friend, people don't see her as a real person because she's a robot. But she is still an individual person. If there's a chance for me to help her, I have to take it." Ruby stated to Jin
"This is a life and death situation, in moments like these. You have to forget that she's your friend and do what must be done. There are times where you can't hesitate and hold back and this is one of them." Jin stated to Ruby causing the young girl to be angry
"I'm not giving up on her, I know that there is a way to help her, we just can't give up." Ruby stated to Jin.
Unknown to Ruby, Penny was able to recover and managed to grab one of her swords. After grabbing her sword, the controlled Penny looked at Ruby and knew what to do. It didn't take long for Jin to notice Penny running towards Ruby with her sword in hand. At the sight of this, Jin knew what the controlled Penny was about to do and realized that Ruby was in danger and didn't know it.
Reacting quickly, Jin grabbed Ruby by her scarf and strongly pulled her to the side. After he pulled Ruby to the side, Jin used his sheath to counter Penny's sword attack and knocked it away before she could stab Ruby. Before either the controlled Penny or a surprised Ruby could do anything. Jin wielded Yukianesa and proceeded to quickly slash at Penny. As Jin was slashing at Penny, many parts of her body started to be frozen in place.
After a few seconds spent slashing at Penny. Her body has been started to be completely frozen. Though Penny couldn't feel the cold due to both her aura and her robotic body. Her body could still be frozen and she could be slowed down. Which ultimately put Penny in Jin's mercy. Before Ruby could stop Jin from going through with his next action. Jin withdrew his sword and after doing so, the ice that Penny was frozen in shattered and Penny was shattered as well.
When Ruby saw this, she had a shocked look on her face at what Jin has done. Though Ruby understood that Penny was being controlled by Relius. It didn't change the fact there was a decent chance that she could have been saved. Yet Jin didn't make any attempts to help Penny in any way. The only thing he was focused on was killing Penny and failed to see that she was a victim of Relius's control. After Penny was destroyed, she merely stood where she was and continued to have her shocked expression. Something that didn't go unnoticed by Relius, who was preoccupied with fighting against Qrow.
"I see, so my recent experiment has failed in apprehending the silver-eyed girl. Unfortunate but ultimately inconsequential." Relius said before he pushed Qrow back and spoke further
"Your outnumbered, you really think you can keep this up you arrogant freak?" Qrow asked Relius while on guard and wielding his weapon
"Capturing the child will be a simple task for someone of my caliber. However, with the bearer of the power of order no longer preoccupied. Me using the full extent of my abilities would no doubt result in the silver-eyed girl being dead as a result." Relius stated to Qrow
"Too scared for a real fight you masked creep?" Qrow said causing Relius to chuckle
"Returning with the mark of failure is more preferable than me having to fight at full strength due to the wielder of the Power of Order being a factor in this encounter. I can't risk killing him as well." Relius said before the rest of the group started to surround him
"Don't think we'll let you get away after all you've done." Nora said while wielding her hammer
"None of you have any choice in the matter. Ignis, to me!" Relius commanded before the crimson doll quickly appeared next to him. Before anyone had the chance to do anything to Relius. He disappeared in a quick burst of light that blinded everyone. Once the light dissipated, both Relius and Ignis were gone.
"Think we should chase after him?" Ren asked in a curious tone
"Nah, I hate to admit it but I figured that he was holding back against us. Since he made it clear that he needed Ruby alive. If he'd have wanted to, he could have killed us. That fact is what might have kept us alive." Qrow told Ren before he went to his niece. Once Qrow got to Ruby, she has an empty look on her face. When Qrow put his hand on her shoulder, Ruby looked up and was able to smile at the sight of her uncle. Happy that the danger has passed and that she's with her family
"Uncle Qrow." Ruby said with a happy look on her face
"Hey kiddo, glad to see your doing good." Qrow told Ruby
"What are you doing here?" Ruby asked in a curious tone
"That's an interesting story, one that I'll tell you guys about once we get out of here and make camp." Qrow told Ruby
"Your right, let's go." Ruby said causing the group to leave the destroyed settlement. As the group was leaving, Ruby took a look at Jin and gave him an angry glare at what he's done. When Jin saw the glare, he knew that Ruby would be furious at what he's done to Penny. But he didn't care, because he knew that if he hadn't acted. Ruby would have been killed and Penny would still be a threat. As Jin was walking, he knew that he'll be hearing Ruby's thoughts about what happened soon.
(A/N)
In case there are questions as to why Jubei would go with Winter and Potemkin. The answer is a very big spoiler and I don't want to give it away. The best thing I can say is that Jubei knows what he's doing.
For Ragna releasing his second seal. It is much more powerful than when Ragna releases his initial seal. But the drawback is that he can not only lose control much more easily. But he becomes a Grimm magnet and if he gets too enraged, he can make the nearby Grimm abnormal with red markings. Being able to make the Grimm Abnormals with the release of his second seal is something Ragna doesn't know about until this chapter. His friends will fill him in on what happened.
In the story, Potemkin's semblance is called groundwork. While he is on the ground, his strength, speed, defenses, and aura is strengthened greatly. It's similar to Elm's semblance (volume 7) but much stronger. The drawback is that If he goes into the air, he loses all of his enhancements. Also, if he makes a strong enough impact on the ground. He can cause an explosion. Which can be powerful thanks to his Potemkin Buster.
I've gotten a lot of good responses for Potemkin. Which is why I'm happy to confirm that Potemkin will return.
For Relius's fight with Ruby's group. I initially was going to have Carl Clover appear and h would fight Relius with their respective mechanical dolls. Yet the more I looked at the drafts and concepts. The more I realized that Carl's appearance would be more fanservice and wouldn't really contribute much to the story. I believe Carl deserves a lot better treatment than that. Which is why I'm confirming that before the Volume 4 portion of this story ends. The next side chapter will be featuring Carl Clover.
I've noticed that there's been some questions about Ruby's comment to Jin that he doesn't care about anyone. The reason Ruby said that is that as far as I can tell, Ruby was not in a situation where she had to fight someone in a life or death situation. So when Ruby saw Penny again, she hoped that there would be a way to save her from Relius's control. But the situation was too intense and Jin had to destroy Penny or else Ruby could have been seriously hurt. Between the two, Ruby tends to be more emotional while Jin tends to be more logical. Which is something I've noticed with Ren given the events of Volume 8 so far.
This will be addressed in the next chapter and will also serve as a foundation for a MAJOR story ark in future volume. What I can confirm so far without spoiling anything. Is that the clashing beliefs between Ruby and Jin won't be settled in one chapter.
Also, thanks to the reviews for this story, the PM's I've received, and the video responses to Penny's return in RWBY canon. I know how to address the situation regarding Penny when this story gets to volume 7. I still plan on deviating from canon and this helps my story plans out greatly.
To answer a quick question, It's been stated that Relius is on par with Valkenhayn in terms of being strong and from what I've read he is also one of the smartest characters in t he series. Having a lot of knowledge regarding magic, alchemy, technology, and engineering. I haven't seen Reius in a serious fight without Ignis. So I decided to take some liberties and add in him materializing various gears and mechanical arms. Which shows up during his astral heat in the main games. In the story, Relius is able to use magic to materialize various things. Like in his fight against Qrow in this chapter.
So read and review
Thank you