Chapter 5

Keep old friends, make new ones

Week 1: Day 4

(Johnathan's POV)

"024, 026, 028...ahh, here we go. Room 030." Rhode Island practically squealed as she found our dorm. I was carrying some of the weaponry from the drop-pods. Mostly both the rocket launchers, pod could only fit two and some back up weaponry. Can never be too careful with who has these things. Rhode was the one with the weird tablet thing that unlocks our door. I had mine hanging from my magnetic belt. I'll set it up later when I got the time. Small beep signaling the door was unlocked. Rhode opened the door and we walked inside. Well it wasn't as big as CFVY's dorm, but it only needs to hold us till we figure something out. Walls had a bland white color, four beds mirroring each other on both sides of the room, four bland looking end tables, Mini fridge off to the side with a microwave above it. Two other doors with one leading to the bathroom. This place is already feeling like a collage dorm, only thing missing is the coffee maker for last minute studying and assignments. I had to admit it was spacious. Bland looking, I'll giving Rhody less then an hour before she decides to decorate, that is be optimistic about it too.

"This is nice, big room to ourselves. Nice view of the area below. What do you think John?" Rhode asked.

"All good by my account." I replied setting the rocket launchers and my helmet down on a random bed. I'll be sure to clean them later. "Could use a bit of your creative touch though, like with that you did to your bunk and locker. Loved those stickers. Especially the glittery ones." I teased a bit.

"Hey, I only did that to the bunk so I would know which one was mine. Very hard to tell when they all look the same." She counter argued. Well she had me there, I had a small knot tied to my bunk so I remembered. As for the locker, It had my name on It so I just left it alone.

"Yeah I know. Remember the time you accidentally took a nap in North's bunk. Oh my lord, the look on your face was priceless when you found him snuggling up to you. I wish I had a camera. Oh wait, I think I still have the picture." I teased a bit more. It wasn't a well kept secret that she liked North and vice versa. Hell, even Theta noticed and in his own way asked North about it.

"Almost as funny as the time you accidentally found yourself in Tex's bed. I swear you wet yourself there and then under her cold stare." She countered. Imagine waking up to a very pissed off Tex, in just your boxers, her in full battle armor cracking her knuckles ready for a fight, looking directly into my soul with hatred and fire practically rolling off her. All I saw is a golden visor, not knowing what she's planing but I knew it's not good. She was merciful thanks to Elisabeth and gave me 10 seconds to run before she chased me though half the ship trying to beat me, several of the personnel learned not to get between Tex and her prey. They had to call Maine, Wyoming, York, and Carolina in to restrain her, When they got there, she was beating me senseless with my own robotic arm. Four of the strongest Freelancers to keep her from killing me. Still have nightmares about that woman.

"Okay point taken. So what have you been doing since you technically 'quit' the Freelancer project?" I asked.

"Nothing too exciting. Wandered the galaxy with Carolina for a while. Went separate ways around Zanzibar and haven't heard from her since." Oh so Carolina is still alive. Good to know, I'll start work on the doomsday bunker. Not for if she finds me, When she finds me. "Did a little mercenary work to pay the bills, mostly Intel. Spent a while trying to find North. Found his body and gave him a proper burial, at least the best I can." Her tone dropped from cheerful to pained. I can relate with her there. Never a good day when you have to bury dead friends/lovers. "Moved on after a few months of grieving, haven't found anyone yet. Haven't heard from South in months. Wyoming and Tex went AWAL so they can be anywhere. Maine is still Psycho so I never kept track of him. Spoke to Wash a few times. Rest are either dead or I don't know where they are. Other that that, just your normal stuff. I was on a mission to retrieve the Omega AI before Maine, and I kind of crashed here. What about you?" She explained.

"Same old, same old. Traveling to different universes, trying not to get killed. Find a peaceful one every now and again. Shoot things occasionally, blow something up on a good day. Meet new friends, have to leave them a week later to continue work, the usual lonely shit." I replied. "Carolina isn't pissed that I couldn't help her?"

"She says she was at first, but understood after some time thinking. I would still beware if you see her again. She's trying to find the director for lord knows why. Never told me anything after that. Just that she needed to find him." She replied. Well it's good to know that I won't die but might be neutered on sight when Carolina finds me, still a good idea to make the bunker. Why she wants the director is beyond me. I personally never liked him, always hid something. Bastard tried take my AI away, Mu wouldn't let him and neither would I. Mu is safe with Serena, her rather timid and caring nature with Serena's rather intellectual one makes for rather interesting conversations to eaves drop on. Anyone can guess which twin got the brains between us. I got the brawn and just enough brain to use it right without acting like a complete dick

"So your not mad at me?" I asked.

"Why would I be? I understand you had to make a difficult choice, I understand that you had to choose quickly." She replied. Well that's a huge load off my chest. "So which bed do you claim?" She asked?

"I guess this one." I replied throwing myself on a spare bed. Felt good to be in a bed again. CFVY's couch was great in all, but I prefer a soft bed any day. Slept in my armor for a week before coming here, absolutely no bed like structures on Requiem that I found. Was kind of passing though it to find other universes. Still wondering where I ended up.

"I'll take this one." Elizabeth claimed as she fell face first into the pillow. Her helmet was kind of off to the side as she laid there. Probably taken back by how comfortable the beds are. "Can't remember the last time I had a bed this soft." I was about to reply when someone knocked on the wood frame of the door.

"Hello new neighbors." A cheerful voice rang though the room. I look at the door to see Nora there with three other people. A red haired girl in ancient spartan like armor, a blonde knight in a hoodie, and a pink eyed ninja person. That's how I see them anyway. I am honestly too comfortable to make accurate descriptions on someone. I know I was easily taller then all of them by a head. One of the many 'perks' of Dr. Halsey being the one to do my augmentation her way. I know I'm nowhere close to as good or as tall as her II's, but I like to think I'm close to as good as a ODST or even a IV. Worth the month in rehabilitation I had to endure afterwords. Ain't that a bitch, Trained by Freelancers yet with the augmentation of a Spartan II.

Don't ask what I did to convince her to my surgery, not particularly happy about hacking into ONI's data banks (Lot harder then it sounds, won't believe how many IV's they had guarding the damn place, last time I try sneaking into government buildings from the Halo-verse). I can understand why she's pissed off at them and want revenge. I do not blame her in the lest for being pissed. In fact now that I really think about it, I don't feel sorry for smacking that one guy around. What was his name, Jameson Locke I think? Not related to Elizabeth in any way as far as I know.

"Hello. I'm Elizabeth Locke. Friends call me Rhody." She introduced shaking hands with everyone. I blinked a few times to get myself out of my crazy thought train. I really need to stop zoning out while remembering. I swear it will be the death of me some day. Almost was a few times

"Nice to meet you Rhody. I'm Nora. This is Pyrrha, Jaune, and Ren. We're the four musketeers that make up Team JNPR" Nora introduced wrapping her arms around the other three. Isn't Juniper a type of tree? Guess it makes as much sense as naming a team after a beverage. I'll figure all this shit out sooner or later.

"You know there were only three Musketeers, Nora" Ren corrected. He gave off a air of calm and collected sense. In my personal experience, the calm and collected ones fight the hardest when backed into a corner. Thinking of ways to take out as many as they can before falling, he kind of reminds me many old companions, may they rest in peace. Valuable allies when shit happens and there is no escaping it.

"I know but four is so much better then three. Just imagine..." And I started tuning her out there. Nora came off as the energetic imaginative one right off the bat from day 1. I can see her be a juggernaut on the battlefield with her type of energy and imagination I've seen so far, hate to see her weapon or be on the wrong end of it. I know for them to effectively fight, they need the calm and collected ones to direct/aim them on the right path of destruction. All the more reason to be allies with Ren.

"Is she always like this?" I asked Ren in low whisper as Nora kept talking.

"Yep." He replied. "Been like this since we were kids."

"And she doesn't calm down?"

"Rarely but you get use to her normal self after a while."

This guy has been dealing with her since they were kids! Aw man, that must be a whole new level of hell where only the strongest survive. Note to self, don't piss off Ren or Nora. Chances are one will break my legs without hesitation with lord knows what, I have a very good idea who. And the other won't stop the former.

"Teach me your ways oh wise Sensei." I said jokingly.

"Just need patients, lots and lots of patients." He replied chuckling lightly.

"So, what brings you two to Beacon?" Pyrrha asked. I can't make heads or tails with her right off the bat. Obviously skilled in combat or she wouldn't be wearing that type of armor. If my history is correct, the warriors of Sparta were among one of the best of their time and then some, like the brave 300 for example. Coordinated, fast, skilled with the blade, fought with great valor for their people and didn't back down even when faced with certain death. Then the Spartans from the Halo-verse which were named after them. Then there is Kratos, do not look forward to seeing him anytime soon. Bottom line is never mess with a spartan, chances are they have nothing to lose and fight like a demon out of hell. Though her question did stump me bit. Never thought of a lie in case someone asked that. Well I better thing of something quick.

"We thought Beacon would be a better option then Atlas Academy in the long run." I have no fucking clue if 'Atlas Academy' even exists. Sounds good to me so I'm sticking with it. "I'm Johnathan Grey. Friends call me John or Ohio." I greeted.

"Pyrrha Nikos." She greeted shaking my hand. She sounds and looks a little like a younger version of Carolina. Maybe Pyrrha is her child in this universe? Compare them with each other and the resemblance is uncanny. If she is Carolina's child, I hope she didn't inherent her hostility and aggression. Wait, that would mean she's related to Tex...Keep her happy, don't piss her off. Still scared to death of both Tex and Carolina, can't take that chance. Big time ally.

"Jaune Arc. Short, sweet, Rolls of the tongue, ladies love it." He introduced with pretty obvious fake confidence.

"Really?" I asked. I've seen a lot of horrifically self-proclaimed lady killers *Cough* Tucker *Cough*, but Jaune doesn't strike me as one. If anything he strikes me as a lovable idiot. Can't stay mad at them to too long and they are great for comedic relief in tough times *Cough* Doughnut, Caboose *Cough*. Possible ally in the long run.

"Yeah, no not really." He replied sounding a little less sure of himself. Man I can relate to him. From the sound in his voice, a majority of the ladies he tried to woo turned him down. I know I'm not winning any beauty contests, maybe I can help him a bit. At lest boost his confidence enough to reasonable levels. I just patted his back a bit.

"Don't worry. They will in time." I replied smiling a bit.

"...Then we rode in on the Nora-mobile, got our relic, battled a Deathstalker to death, saw Ruby decapitate a Nethermore like a true Badass, and made it back just in time for dinner." Nora finally finished her story. No idea that the hell the 'Nora-mobile' is, or a DeathStalker, or a Nevermore? Well the one I know is what the crow says in one of Edgar Allan Poe's poems. So it must be a bird like thing.

"Interesting story Nora. Sure Johnathan as a few interesting ones to share himself." Rhode replied now putting me in the energetic girl's spotlight.

"I'm sure you don't want to hear any of them." I replied trying to be modest. I knew I had a shit load of interesting stories. But with four new people I just meet and don't owe nothing to, I'm a bit more hesitant. Only reason why I gave as much info as I did to Velvet and Coco is because I owed one answers. A Grey doesn't leave a debt unpaid. Which reminds me, I need to take a Sith student's arm off. She cut my robot one so I want to repay her the favor if I ever find that bitch again. Had this damn arm cut, blasted, shot, bit, crushed, sliced, melted, and ripped off more then once. No idea why they always go the the robot arm? Got no sense of touch in it so half the list doesn't hurt.

"Oh come on, I'm sure you have one. Please!" She begged bouncing like a kangaroo. I look to the other three members of her team for help, but got none. Instead they looked as curious as her. Well I could show them a Helmet cam tape, maybe a picture. One of the PG rated ones. Maybe from Blood Gulch, that would be a good believable place...Sort of. Maybe the last time I saw Cole. He was a funny guy. Last I saw him, Tex threw a plasma grenade at his crotch. Safe to say he is temporarily neutered. Takes a lot more then a grenade to keep him down. No, got no videos that would believe right off the bat, well Nora might believe it all.

"I would show you one I recorded, but I don't have the necessary equipment to display or access it right now." I lied picked up my helmet. Yes I record everything from my Helmet. Including but not limited to; Journal logs, videos from almost every universe I've been to, pictures of friends I don't want to forget. Even a few home movies of Serena, Dad, and I when I was still a innocent minded child instead of the monster I can be. Oh how I miss Dad, but he is in a better place. His body on the other hand was vaporized but I like to think his soul is in a better place.

Yes I modified my helmet to accept USB crap. I even tore out the shield generators. Took up too much power and too much resources in the main systems, replaced them with other things. Like the knife sheaths in the shoulders, better sensors and equipment in the chest piece, detach and re-attachable armor segments. Lot easier to maintain without having to worry about the shields. They were a HUGE pain in the ass to work around.

"Besides, there will be time to share them later. Right now, Elizabeth and I need to set up our dorm. Why put off something for tomorrow that can be done today." I replied quoting I don't know who nor do I care. More then likely some old Chinese guy if I were to guess. Though Nora looked a bit down that I wasn't going to share one of my stories. Well, plan B. I know this will going to bite me in the ass later, but I don't like leaving cheerful people sad."I promise I'll show you them when we're all settled into the dorm."

"Okay." She replied getting cheerfully again. Dear lord what kind of mess did I get myself into later.

"Well it nice meeting you Johnathan and Elizabeth, We'll leave you to unpack and get everything in order." Pyrrha politely intervened.

"Alright Pyrrha." Nora cheerfully said walking out with Ren in her grip, Jaune and Pyrrha in tow. "Come on Reny, we got pancakes to cook."

"See you guys later." Jaune said. Poor Ren didn't get to say that much as Nora literally dragged him out the door. That man must have the patience of a Buddhist monk to put up with her for this long. He has my sympathy, which I rarely give out anymore.

"You ever need anything, let us know." I offered as the door closed. I couldn't help but chuckle lightly as they left. "So on the the important question. Where do you want to put these?" I picked up one of the launchers.

(Velvet's POV)

I am glad Johnathan got out of the Emerald forest alive. Kind of impressed at how well he can handle Grimm so well. Maybe he has faces similar creatures in his travels. His friend Rhode Island seems pretty nice, then again she probably has known Johnathan a lot longer then I have. Stopped by my dorm earlier and changed into my combat attire. It was comfortable and I like it. Left Scarlet Fever back at the dorm. No need for it right now so I left it behind. Not like a Grimm will attack school grounds. They learned quick not to get too close unless they feel like being living target practice. A fifty foot cliff is pretty hard to scale when you got people shooting at you.

I was currently on my way to his dorm area. I was going to invite him to a walk around Vale. If he's going to be living at Beacon, best to show him best places to get supplies and relieve stress. I know my first year here was crazy. Coco and her famous shopping sprees, still got a cramp in my shoulder after the last one. Would help if I knew where his dorm was. Numbered dorms are mainly for the first years till they get a feel for where everything is at. What number did Ozpin say it was again? 30-34ish area?

"No put the weapon locker over there so we can get equip faster." A voice I pinged as Agent Rhode Island. He hasn't explained why he called himself 'Agent Ohio'. Maybe it is a code name? Didn't sound too far away, one of the few times my enhanced hearing comes in handy. I look toward the source of t he sound. Dorm 030, I was right.

"Would be a lot easier of I could see where 'over there' was. Ping it on the HUD." Johnathan complained. I knocked on the door a few times. "Come in. Doors unlocked." He replied.

I opened the door to see Johnathan moving a weapons locker closer to the door. I don't remember my dorm having the lockers. Maybe Ozpin pulled a few strings to let them have it. Rhode Island was helping Johnathan move the locker by making sure his path was clear, currently with her back toward me as John moved forward.

"Oh, hi Velvet. Nice to see you again." He greeted as he put the locker down by one of the beds and took off his helmet.

"Elizabeth this is my friend Velvet. Velvet, Elizabeth." He introduced me to his friend. She wasn't too much shorter then me, Maybe by an inch if that. She turned around to see me and let out a and squealed.

"That is so cute." She squealed like a fan girl before tackling me into a bone crushing hug. "I've never seen someone with real bunny ears poking out of their head and they're just so adorable. I just want to hold her, and hug her, and cuddle her, and pet her fluffy ears all day." she continued as she started petting my ears. Normally I wouldn't let anyone I don't know touch my rabbit ears, but in this case I can't do anything with this woman crushing my rib cage in a bear hug. At lest someone petting them is better then pulling on them. Pick my poison. Beggars can't be choosers.

"Can't. Breathe. Need. Air." I managed to squeeze out between breaths. She either didn't hear me, didn't care, or liked petting my ears too much. I don't mind it when friends pet my ears occasionally (Like when I'm stressed), just when strangers pet them it becomes awkward. It's not like I don't enjoy it, just only when people I really know pet them. Hope that makes sense. Just hope she doesn't start scratching the base of my ears. I could swear I heard John say 'Looks like I was right' under his breathe.

"If you keep that up Rhody she won't be cute, cuddly, and fluffy for much longer." Johnathan said. She let me out of her iron bear hug. I gasped loudly as precious oxygen flowed into my lungs. Oh sweet, sweet oxygen.

"Sorry about that. I just love small animals and I kind of lost control when I saw the ears." She apologized. Well I can't say I blame her, she wouldn't be the first to lose control when someone saw my ears. Some of the kinder people compliment them while the not so kind ones at one point tried to cut them off. Safe to say they got really friendly with Coco's handbag and sang soprano before she had Fox escort me away while she had a 'civilized chat' with them (Few high level hunters had to immobilize Coco and drag her from the body before she could finish the job, no one messes with her teammates and lives), They are still in the hospital last I checked. That was over four weeks ago.

"It's okay. I'm use to worse." I replied holding my rib cage, had to use a bit of Aura to numb the pain.

"So what brings you around here Velv?" Johnathan asked as he sat on, what I assume is, his bed.

"I was just going to offer you two a tour around Vale. Show you the points of interest, local shops, that sort of thing." I replied quickly. The two armored ones in the room looked at each other for a bit, each looking for a answer in the other.

"Sure. We can finish setting everything up later. We got time." Elizabeth agreed.

"Why not. Going to be stuck here, might as well know where to resupply." Johnathan agreed. Today is going to be a good day. I can feel it in my bones.

(Johnathan's POV)

The three of us were on a airship to some city near by called Vale, me and Rhody left our armor back at the room. Seems pointless to have it for a walk around town. Had to help Elizabeth out of hers, She wears her combat suit under her willow skin, her armor enhancement. Forces her to do actions way faster then normal, dare I say she can even match a Spartan II's reaction time for a short while. There was only enough material to make the one suit. Only activates when she tenses her body enough. Down side is that it slowly tears apart her mind with every use, one of the reasons why I don't like her using it. Her combat suit is much like mine only hers is a more tan variant, and it only comes up to the base of her neck.

The ride itself is pretty smooth, compared to the dozens of other air travel vehicles I been on. To be honest the only other time I rode in anything that flew this smoothly was on Coruscant toward the Jedi temple. That was a interesting universe. I had a Jedi Padawan friend, Alcyone Starblast. She didn't survive my line of work for more then two universes. She was still learning how to use the Force when we traveled together. Didn't work out so well after a trip to the Skyrim sector. I was too weak to save her and she ended up getting her throat slit on top of other . . . unmentionable things. I had a burning hatred for the Thalmor ever since that day. Didn't let a single one escape that fort alive. Before she passed, she gave me her double ended blue lightsaber. Combined some properties from her lightsaber into my energy swords. Like the lightsaber, they have a somewhat infinite charge, but only if i let them 'cool' down for a bit. Didn't want to do it, but I had no choice. Such a limited battery with my swords won't get me very far. Got the rest of her saber under lock and key back home, to keep her memory alive.

"Hey Johnathan, you okay?" Velvet asked. I shook my head and took in my surroundings. Few other people were on the ship as it descended, few of them were Faunus. Ship was big, open, and looked over all great. Elizabeth was too busy with her face against the glass looking out to see the clouds. Same old Rhody, childish at heart yet can be dead serious when she needs to be. Now that I really think about it, the Faunus here are rather amazing works of nature. Perhaps they are the next generation of human in terms of evolution. Would make since why there are so few and in vast varieties, natures is trying to find the best combination it can make. Or maybe the God of this place got bored and figured 'Oh what the hell, what is the worse that can happen mixing these two things together'. Both arguable theories, yet I'm leaning more toward evolution. Then again, i think the same thing with any human like being with animal features. Things kind of connect after a few worlds.

"Yeah I'm fine. Just thinking." I replied, why do I get the feeling something bad is going to happen?

"About what, sweet cheeks?" A female voice asked from out of nowhere and smacked my ass. I swear I jumped so high, my head hit the roof. I also swear that I do not scream like a little girl when surprised. I look behind me to find the culprit. It was Coco, designer glasses in all.

"Why the hell did you smack my ass?" I loudly replied keeping my posterior away from her.

"Because I wanted to. And I must say you got a nice, firm ass." She replied smirking. "So what are you guys doing on the transport to Vale?" She asked.

"Just going to show them around Vale so they won't get too lost." Velvet replied.

""I assume your also swinging by Grimm-dales for the sale. Sure they got something in his size somewhere." She said raising eyebrow.

"No Coco, I don't have the Lien to spare to go clothes shopping. Saving up to afford new components for Scarlet Fever. High quality Dust needed for it is hard to come by and not cheap." She replied. Okay not I am confused. What would she need dust for? Please tell me that it isn't some type of slang for explosive like gunpowder or C4.

"What's Dust? Is it the type of stuff I find in attics or spooky crypts?" Rhody asked with her face still glued to the window. Thank you for asking the million dollar question. I'll give her a cookie later. Assuming the little girl in red hasn't eaten them all yet.

"No what your thinking is dust, dirty stuff that clings to everything. We're talking about Dust, used as a explosive, propellant, power source, pretty much used for everything really." Coco explained.

"I still don't follow. Simplify it farther please." I asked still confused.

"Ask Weiss, her dorm is next to yours. She will explain it a bit or give you a brochure about the basics. What was it called?" Coco mused trying to remember the name.

"Dust for Dummies?" Velvet replied as Coco snapped her fingers.

"That's it. Never talked to her personally, but she hands the brochures out to people. Like Ruby on her first day. Still got the clip resulting up to the explosion." Coco explained. Okay, check with Snow queen when I get back, ask for the video after that. Be nice to know a bit more about this crazy-ass world.

"Thank you . . . Oh, that cloud looks like a fluffy bunny." Rhody commented from the window. Velvet backed away from her slowly, more then likely to ensure she an breath in the near future. Smart woman. Rhody looked back for a second. "Oh hi, I'm Elizabeth Locke." She introduced herself.

"Coco Adel, nice to meet you." Coco greeted as she shook her hand. "So your one of Johnathan's friends?"

"Yep, I even helped train him for a year." She replied proudly. I still say that the time I spend with the Freelancers was a great experience and was kind of fun to a point. Regardless of the countless heart attacks I suffered (Tex), bullet wounds in the ass (South, not sure why she always aim for the ass?), Bets/Money lost (York/Delta), and pies thrown at my face (Rhode, always threw the pumpkin pies at me, a good laugh for everyone, why not cherry?), I still loved it there and miss almost everyone.

Wyoming was alright once I got to know him. Always liked North and York, they were fun guys. CT kept to herself so we rarely talked. I firmly hate South with a burning passion. Maine kept to himself mostly but occasionally showed me how to fight in close quarters pretty well (He didn't go easy on me but was still a LOT more merciful then South or Tex). Carolina and Tex I am still scared shit-less of them for good reasons too. Kentucky was a hot-headed asshole enough said. Washington was alright, now that I think of it, Ozpin sounds a lot like him. Utah was trustworthy yet you can never know what is going on in his mind, never play poker with him, YOU WILL LOSE EVERYTHING! Rhode Island I like and will play any game she wants just to keep her smiling, mostly monopoly and twister, damn is she flexible. Still think she rigged the one twister game just to be closer with North. Oh that was a fun day when Carolina walked in when they were entangled. Rhody and I don't have romantic feelings for each other. I did at one point but got over it when I realized that I never stood a snowball's chance in hell against North. We decided to remain good friends after a bit of soul searching on my end. Plus I learned to not to get into romantic relationships on the job. Doesn't end well for anyone, always ends in heartbreak and death.

"Good to know." She replied. "Say do you two have Lien to spend? Going to need it if you want to buy anything." Elizabeth and I looked at her like deer in headlights. So this place used Lien as a form of currency. Well shit, I forgot my Lien filled wallet in my other pants, looks like Rhody did too. Guess we better head back home and...oh wait. I can't because my other pants is back at my home universe, and I can't go home. Got to love it when fate screws you over, makes life a lot more interesting. Oh crap I don't like the look at Coco's face.

"Velv, they're going with me. You can show them around later."

"Coco.."

"No buts, they need something else besides their uniforms and armor to wear. They can pay me back later when they get the cash." She demanded. I can tell this is going to end badly.

"Please tell me this is all just a nightmare and I am really back home hopped up on enough painkilling drugs to cripple a bull elephant." I complained as Coco piles yet another box to Rhode's new wardrobe. This was the 8th outfit that had the 'Coco seal of approval', what ever the hell that means. Meanwhile I was the poor pack mule because I could carry more. Damn my SPARTAN like strength, one time you're a burden. We've been here for about a few hours now. Velvet was next to me with a few boxes for my wardrobe. Looking as bored as I was. She was offering, I will pay her back when I figure out where to find a job around here. The clothing store wasn't too bad. Reminds me of a designer clothes store from back home, like Bloomdales. Aisles of clothes for people of all types, even a few with holes in the back of jeans just for tails. I didn't dare look at the price tags for any of it. With no job for money, I can't afford to have a heart attack right now or even a freaking tee-shirt.

"No this is real, and she is just getting started." Velvet replied. This is just getting started! Sweet mother of Moses this is going to take a while. Rhody was currently in the dressing room trying on another outfit. Coco really looks to be in her element right now.

"What do you guys think? Do I look alright?" Rhode came out of the dressing room and all I heard was Coco's jaw drop. Rhode stood there now in a red button down blouse with orange buttons, khaki brown shorts, dazzling ruby earrings, a vicious old plasma burn pretty much engulfed her left calf as she tried to hide it with her other leg. Note from past self: slaughter all Covenant forces I come across till the day I die, leave NO survivors. Coco and Velvet had looks that were full of concern but Rhode's body language screamed 'Please don't look at my legs'. She lost her family during the Harvest campain when the Covenant declared war. She says they were on a EVAC transport but got shot down. She was the only survivor when the ODST 'search and rescue' team found the wreckage. Apparently she was there for Collage to learn how to be a Historian. I know because she told me. A story for a story, She told me about her burn I told her about my arm. My first reaction then was to hold her close and let her cry into my arms. What are friends for if you can't rely on them to be a shoulder to cry on when you need it.

"My work here is done. Change back, put the shorts back, go with the blue jeans, we're heading to check out." Coco ordered snapping me out of my train of thought. Rhode seemed very relieved and head back to the dressing room. Velvet and Coco looked at me for answers. I know how to handle this situation.

"It's her story, not my place to share something that personal to her. She'll share it with you guys when she is ready." I quickly replied to the silent questions they were asking.

"Okay but can you tell us why you two are called agents Ohio and Rhode Island?" Coco asked.

"Code names from our time in a secret project that technically never existed." I replied adjusting my grip on the boxes. Before they can ask anything else, Elizabeth came out of the dressing room in her regular combat suit. They shrugged it off as we headed to the counter.

"Ah Miss Adel, On another shopping spree again." A female voice said, I couldn't see her over the leaning tower of clothes I had obstructing my vision.

"Just picking up a few things for new friends. Maybe next time Greta." Coco replied. Oh sure this is only a few things, like how only a few people like bacon, or how my boss only fucked up only a few times. Don't even get me started with him. I hate that man more the South and that alone saying something. At lest she didn't brush me off to the side like a liability when I had a complete mental breakdown, I'll give her credit for dragging me to the ship's doctor, probably didn't want to lose her favorite live target. Bastard treats me like I am a tool instead of a living being. When I get back, I'll kick his ass if he deduces this unscheduled trip from my already non-existent paycheck.

"Alright miss Adel, your total today is 75 lien. Would you like to donate a extra 5 lien to the local shelter?" The mystery woman asked. I snapped out of my train of thought. Didn't even notice her scan the boxes. Yet I was still holding them. 80 bucks for all this! Don't know the value of Lien so I can't say if this was either a bargain or huge dent in a wallet. I'll figure it all out as I go.

"Why not, 5 lien wouldn't break the bank." Coco replied as she pulled out her wallet and paid the lady. Funny, Lien looks almost like credit cards. I won't judge, at lest they would be water proof.

"Thank you and come again." the woman replied cheerfully. Well, wardrobe isn't a problem anymore. I'll pay her pack as soon as I find the money. Maybe I could bake her a pie or kick someone's ass for her? Well I'm off to a good start in this world, that is all I can ask for.

(Serena's POV)

MERC research center.

Peeling white walls surrounded me, one I am facing was lined with computer screens, cables and towers. Round gate like thing on the far wall, deactivated to save power. Pile of books and papers of various types littered the floor. Small futon on the east wall. I was at my desk on my 18th cup of coffee so far. I've been up for the past four days trying to find the right route to Johnathan. I can't just leave him in some god forsaken place again. Not after Isla Nubar, or Tamriel. Can't afford to have him come back in less pieces. Researching every possible thing I can about the world he's in. What he is up against, what he has to deal with, what key events he will most likely have to tackle though. Every little nook and cranny I can pull up about the RWBY system from every inch of the internet. Got to have a good base line on what to expect. So far it doesn't look like too bad of a place to be stuck in, All though Salem's group and Ironwood are a bit concerning. Far as I can tell timeline wise, he is pre volume 3, possibly all the way near the beginning.

"Auntie Serena, when is daddy going to come home?" A young raspy cat like voice asked. I look behind me to see Elaia standing there rubbing her amber eyes, her ears were perked back as she yawned a bit. Must of just got up from her nap. She looks a bit like a bipedal panther. She was in her custom made Spongebob pajamas and slippers. Girl loves her cartoons, had to hack a few systems to get decent television shows here. Joys of being the brains. Especially when I need to hack school systems to gradate Johnathan early. Technically not guilty of a illegal activity if they have no proof.

I still couldn't believe Johnathan brought her back with him. Goes against protocol but wouldn't be the first time he threw up a middle finger to the boss. Was a huge surprise when he dropped this bombshell on me. He walks through a portal with her in his arms, sets her on the futon and tells me I now have a niece. I personally like Elaia, she's like a niece to me. From what Johnathan told me, her parents died during a dragon attack in Solitude, they were part of a trade caravan. Johnathan took care of her for over three weeks in the wilds of Skyrim before coming back. He kind of grew attached to her and treats her like a daughter. He even brings her sweets and souvenirs when he comes back. Take her out to Denny's occasionally, some times to MERC's superstore close by when we need supplies. Who knew he would be such a good father. I certainly didn't. Don't let her cuteness fool you. When she goes into a temper tantrum, it is utter chaos. Especially when she knows the 'Storm call' shout. Well only the first word but it is still destructive. Only shout from her world she knows . . . . that I am aware of. And of course like the good aunt I am, I spoil her a bit, check under her bed for monsters when Johnathan isn't here, even take her out to ice cream every now and again. Sure some people look at her weird and call her names, but a swift ass kicking, I mean reasonable talk, straightens those morons out good. They are lucky I am the merciful one, Johnathan breaks their legs when he catches them doing any of that. John is pretty protective over anyone he cares about.

"Soon sweetie, he'll be home soon" I lied. I didn't have the heard to tell her that her adopted father is missing. Yes I may have the cords to the universe he is in, but with no immediate connection, it is like finding a needle in the universe's largest haystack. I'll find him so that I can kill him myself for making Elaia and me worry so much.

"Daddy is currently a little lost." Mu explained as she appeared into view. Another person Johnathan brought back. From what I can gather, Mu is Alpha's mercy and humanity. Her avatar looked a bit like a pink Greek goddess, toga in all. She was only a few inches tall yet had the biggest heart out of everyone in this god damn compound. "Don't worry Elaia, he will be back sooner or later. I recommend heading back to bed. Adorable kids like you need their sleep."

"Okay, thanks Mu. Thanks Aunt Serena." She thanked as she walked back toward her bedroom. I quickly looked at the clock to see it was only half past midnight. I need another cup of coffee. Just when She was out of earshot, Mu spoke again.

"You know you should get some rest yourself. At the rate your going, you'll burn out from exhaustion long before you find him." Mu warned.

"I'm fine, just need more coffee." I replied getting up and heading to the coffee pot on the west wall. Mu shook her head and followed me from my shoulder.

"What you NEED is a solid 8 hours of uninterrupted sleep. I get your worried about him but he is highly trained and refuses to die easy. Just get some rest, continue this search when your thinking clearly." Mu explained with a worried look.

"I am thinking straight. I need to find him before something else does." I replied pouring my 19th cup of coffee.

"He can take care of himself. Carolina and the other Freelancers wouldn't have spent all that time training him for nothing. Trust him and get some rest. You'll drive yourself straight into the ground at your current pace." She countered. I do trust he can take care of himself, just don't want him to come back with less limbs. I lost it when Dad found him with a bloody stump where his arm use to be. It was from that day on that I knew I started losing my brother. He changed in more ways then one that day. I'll be damned if I let him lose more of himself. Hes' all I have left in this world.

"I'll sleep when I find him." I countered about to take a sip of coffee.

"Serena how long have you known me?" She asked stopping me.

"About two years. You already know this, why ask me?"

"Have I ever once, in those two years, been wrong or misguided you in any way?"

"No, none that I can think of."

"Then trust me and go get some sleep. I'll keep nagging you till you do, You know I will." Mu threatened.

"Alright fine." I gave in putting the coffee down. "I'll get some sleep but I'll go right back to searching when I get up."

"I can live with that, now get your butt to bed Missy." She commanded. Well I had no choice but to agree with the AI fragment. I sighed as I fixed the futon back to a mattress, Elaia's room was in the spare room of mine and Johnathan's work space. Need to make the most out of the tiny amount of space we're given. I laid down and set my head on the pillow. I'll just close my eyes for a few minutes and then back to work, long enough to fool Mu. I closed my eyes and before I knew it, I was out like a light. Fast asleep aboard the dreamland express.

That's a wrap for today people. Hope you enjoyed. I can confirm Cole will be in later chapters as a support character. Cole belongs to 'wetworkzNinja', he went really in depth on his character, sent him over PM. He gave me ideas to help this story stray farther from the main canon plot and more into it's own. I will give everyone's character their time in the limelight, to be fair to everyone. Some will appear when the ruptures get more frequent, some (The dead ones which I have yet to receive) will be shown in a flashback/dream.

Yes Johnathan does have the augmentation of a SPARTAN II but it didn't come without a price which will be seen later, no it is not scars but something more mental. Planning on having Johnathan suffer a but from PTSD for all the crap he's been through, though I should do more research on it so I don't offend anyone who actually has it. With touchy subjects like that, it is best to get as many answers as possible on before I do something stupid. If anyone knows any certain sites I must visit to learn more about PTSD, please let me know and I'll visit them as soon as I can. Also would like to use this bit of space to thank the Troops/Veterans for serving/defending their country. Now to answers a few reviews.

Kai-tenoc: No I have not played guild wars 2 nor have I heard of it. I will admit your character is interesting, little confusing but interesting.

Pwnerdude1: I agree it would take more then a Rocket launcher to take on the Meta, but when your in a orbital supply drop (Not sure if ODST pods could be used as supply pods? It sounds good to me, they modified them, I'm sticking with it) you need to make some tough calls. A Spartan laser would be too expensive to drop without supervision, Railgun isn't made yet if we're going by the RVB/Halo timeline, Promethean weaponry isn't discovered yet, and a MAC strike is too much overkill to take out one person regardless of how powerful they are.

Gr33444: Please PM me details regarding your OC. Seems to be missing a few things for me to accurately figure out how to include him.

ShadowBladeKnight: Your OC seems interesting and decently thought out. Mind PM over some better details, could make him a flashback character.

That's all I have today, please stay tune for future chapters. I need a few dead OCs, Can't have too many lively ones, I put enough of my own OCs in so I'm letting the people of the internet have a chance to get a person from their imagination out there into the world. Refer back to Chapter 5 for details. Till next time.

~Dgreen20