And now the final transition into the final act of this Volume. After this, it's going to be a bit more original in some places, and a plot twist in the chapter after next. Can you guess it? (EVIL LAUGHTER!)
Disclaimer: RDF1 doesn't own RWBY, WATCH THE SHOW!
Crap it all if I don't notice things until it's too late. Last Chapter, I had Yang tell Blake it was an "Ancient" Beowolf when it was an "Elder". I'm sorry for that typo, it's still actually an Elder. I goofed and I'm not going back now to change it without some serious headaches.
(Chapter Begin)
(Recap)
Ruby took one more look around the room before heading outside to get some fresh air. She felt her emotions draining already and she wouldn't be able to keep up the pretense for very long. Glancing around, she noticed someone moving across the rooftops.
"Oh no," groaned Ruby as she focused her attention on who it was, revealing it to be Cinder, "I never should have said that. I just HAD to jinx it!"
Checking to make sure no one else was watching, she took off after Cinder, who was headed for the CCT.
(Recap End)
Ruby rushed over to the CCT as best she could without relying on her semblance. Her high Heels weren't exactly good for that level of speed. Getting to the CCT, she noticed a knocked out guard. Taking off her shoes and setting them near the bushes where the unconscious guard was, she held out her hand and Crescent Rose appeared. She had taken to keeping her sweetheart at her office instead of the lockers for an extra layer of protection and accessibility in case her scroll was damaged or taken from her and she couldn't access another scroll quickly. Moving in, Ruby noticed the other unconscious guards and decided to intentionally trip a silent alarm as she headed up the elevator. When the door opened, she carefully walked out, keeping a sharp eye out for Cinder.
"I know you're there, so there's no use in hiding," said Ruby, "Make it easy on yourself, and we don't have to drag this out."
Cinder decided to reveal herself, and Ruby readied herself for a fight when Cinder opened up a vial of yellow dust power, turning it into dust shards and sent them at Ruby, who dodged.
"WHAT!?" cried out Ruby indignantly, "Are you insane, or just suicidal?"
Cinder opened another vial as Ruby countered with Sniper Shots, all of which was blocked with one hand while the other formed Green Energy Shards and sent them flying. Ducking underneath, Ruby's nose caught that faint whiff...
'DAMNIT ALL!' swore Ruby as she moved into swipe at Cinder, who blocked with her swords, before Ruby pulled back... and sneezed, causing the lingering dust particles to light up, sending both of them back.
"Using Dust against someone with a Dust Allergy is just plain STUPID!" complained Ruby, rubbing her nose as she got up, "Are you TRYING TO..."
Ruby was cut off as the Elevator doors opened, revealing Ironwood who had heard the silent alarm. Looking back to where Cinder was found nothing, as Cinder disappeared in that small time frame. Ruby let out a breath she didn't realize she was holding as she folded up Crescent Rose and laid her gently on the ground as she took a knee.
"I'm sorry, General," said Ruby.
"Miss Rose, it will be okay. I will cover the damages and replacement fees for this incident," informed Ironwood, holding out a hand for Ruby, "I would recommend returning to your dorm. We'll speak with Ozpin tomorrow in more detail."
"Understood, sir," said Ruby, taking Ironwood's hand with one hand and Crescent Rose with the other as she got to her feet.
On the elevator trip down, Ironwood turned to Ruby, "Also... Bless you."
"Thank you, General," replied Ruby.
(AN1)
Less than half an hour after returning to the Dorm Room, WBY raced in, looking very concerned.
"Ruby!" said Yang, wrapping her up in a hug immediately, "Are you okay!?"
"Yang..." choked Ruby, though it was ignored by Yang, "Can't... breathe..."
"Yang, let her breathe," said Blake.
Once Yang let go of Ruby, Weiss was in her face, "Why didn't you contact us!? We should have been there!"
"There wasn't time," replied Ruby, leaning back against the dresser between the beds, "Plus, this was personal. Cinder broke into the CCT."
"You could have been killed!" said Yang.
"I had no intention of dying... again," countered Ruby, "Plus Cinder already accomplished what she set out to do by the time I got there, so she only prioritizing leaving. And she continued to block my shots, this time from close range! THAT BITCH! I WILL NOT LET HER DO THAT AGAIN!"
WBY took a step back from Ruby's anger, justifiable as it was.
"Sorry, that just irks me, but considering what else she did, that was the least of my worries," continued Ruby, "Her Semblance allows her to use Powdered Dust as she pleases."
"Oof," flinched Weiss, remembering their first encounter, "I take it that didn't end pretty...?"
"About half a dozen computers destroyed, and several others damaged by the debris, from what I could see. Thanks to Ironwood, I don't have to replace them. He's footing that bill," finished Ruby, "I'm to talk with him and Ozpin tomorrow. I'll use that to work in a Mission to Mount Glenn if possible. Ozpin will understand. Now, it's late and we need some sleep, especially if we're going on a mission tomorrow."
WBY couldn't argue that and everyone got ready for bed. Ruby closed her eyes, concerned about what awaited beneath Mount Glenn.
(AN2)
Ruby exited the elevator the next morning to see Oz, Glynda, and Ironwood, just like last time. Ruby knew she was taking a risk with Ironwood, but she needed his trust and support in the coming weeks, especially with the Tournament underway. Hopefully she could stop Cinder as well. It was personal now.
"Good Morning, Miss Rose," said Oz, as Ruby approached the three of them, "General Ironwood gave us the official report on what happened last night. But now that you've rested, is there anything you would like to share regarding the incident?"
"I do, sir," said Ruby, taking a breath, "And I would like full transparency with Ironwood as well. He needs to understand so it's not just blind faith I'm asking of him."
"Miss Rose...?" questioned a curious Ironwood.
"I told you I knew about Penny from the start, and that's technically true that I knew about her before meeting her, but I need to explain everything for you to understand what's going on," said Ruby, "As you know, There's a group working against the Kingdoms and trying to spread chaos. What you don't know is a group almost as ancient trying to stop them and others from destroying this world. They're called "Reapers of Grimm"."
Ironwood looked skeptical at this and looked at Oz and Glynda for confirmation, to which they nodded. Ironwood signaled for Ruby to continue.
"I am one of them. This is a group that have a special criteria to join... you must die before your time."
Ironwood's eyes widened, but he made no attempt to deny or interrupt her. He learned that lesson from Ozpin when Oz asked him to join HIS secret group in stopping Salem.
(AN3)
"I died five years ago on Patch Island, when an Elder Grimm Beowolf killed me," continued Ruby, getting Ironwood to nod as he and Oz and Glynda had been given Ruby's updated information on Grimm's age and growth, "Instead of dying, I met the Grim Reaper, with one 'm'. He offered me a position as a "Reaper of Grimm" and I accepted it. This allowed me to see my mother, Summer Rose, for the first time in six long years."
Ironwood could imagine the possibilities with that meeting. Summer Rose was one of THE best Huntress that graduated Beacon Academy, and Leader of Team STRQ, who went on record as the best TEAM to graduate from Beacon.
"You know of the Silver Eyed Warriors, so you know we have a natural advantage against Grimm... should we be able to train our eyes," said Ruby, "Summer trained me, as well as Qrow, which is why I wield a Scythe. Shortly before the beginning of last semester, I was at "From Dawn 'Til Dust", where a certain criminal attempted a robbery that was thwarted by yours truly and Glynda Goodwitch. That was where I first met 'her'. She's here, as a visiting student. She used the party to infiltrate the CCT. For what, I haven't been informed off, but I wouldn't necessarily need to be."
"And I must say I commend you for your actions last night," said Ironwood, "You acted like a true Huntsman and I thank you."
"I don't deserve thanks... not until she's actually caught," replied Ruby, "Before these events, my team and I went investigating into Roman Torchwick, which ended up in a fight with one of your stolen Paladins, of which I suspect more have been taken."
"Yes, many have been stolen rather recently," confirmed Ironwood.
"We learned that Torchwick has teamed up with the White Fang and are currently gathering South East of Vale. I presume Mount Glenn since it makes the most sense," continued Ruby, "I can't say for sure, but I want to ask that you be ready, General. I can't say I know what they have planned, but if my team can force their hand, then we can bring them to you."
"I'm not sure I like what you're implying, but I can't deny the resourcefulness your team has been, or so Oz says," replied Ironwood.
"Miss Rose, I do believe there is a current mission available that involved Mount Glenn, but outside of Team CFVY, none of our students are ready for it, which only compounds the problem as it gets worse with each passing day."
"Let us take it and I will make sure to lower the threat level if possible."
"I know this sounds crazy, General, but I want to help. My team is involved and we can't 'not' be involved anymore at this point. I want to share more with you, but much like politics, even my group has red tape for certain things. Please, do not tell anyone about this, not even Penny. I wish to tell her myself when I can."
"I thank you, Miss Rose," said Ironwood, "For trusting me with this information. I will do my best to keep it a secret. Though I guess this means you also know about my own 'differences' as well. Thank you, I will do my best to honor this trust."
"That's all I can ask, General," finished Ruby, before bowing her head to the three of them and heading back to the Elevator, wanting to prep her team for the day ahead.
Her teammates were waiting for her on her return, she simply moved past them to her large backpack and set it on Weiss's bed before addressing them.
"Everything went as planned. Pack up the essentials for at least overnight," informed Ruby.
"Before that, I wanted to let you know Dad sent us a package," said Yang, getting Ruby's eyes to light up for a moment.
"Sweet," smiled Ruby, as she and Yang opened the tubed mail container. As if defying the law of conservation of mass, an object slightly larger than the tube itself plopped out and turned into dog, a very familiar dog to the two girls.
"ZWEI!" exclaimed Yang and Ruby together as Ruby picked up the lovable, and indestructible mutt.
"Oh this is so awesome!" grinned Ruby.
"You're dad sent a DOG in the mail!?" exclaimed Weiss.
"Please keep him away from my things," added Blake, who was more than a little wary of Zwei.
"Oh come on girls, Zwei is adorable. You can't resist the face!" smirked Ruby, as Zwei did just that to Weiss.
"No way. There's no way you'll ever get me... to..." started Weiss, but the longer she looked at Zwei the harder it became to resist his cuteness, "like... this... SUPER CUTE DOGGIE!"
"And another one bites the dust," chuckled Ruby, before glancing at Blake, "Blake, your cat is showing... again. Zwei is amazing, and I'm sure you'll warm up to him before too long."
"I... highly doubt it," countered Blake.
"Is that a challenge?" replied Ruby, raising an eyebrow, "I'll have you know Zwei won over a man with cynophobia, in three days."
"I don't have a phobia of dogs, Ruby," bristled Blake.
"Want to make a bet?" challenged Ruby.
"I wouldn't do it, Blake," chipped in Yang, petting Zwei, "Ruby's hasn't lost a bet in eight years."
(AN4)
"Attention: All first year students please report to the Amphitheater," came the announcement from Glynda.
"Well, we can't just leave him here," commented Weiss.
"Wait, there's a note," said Yang, double-checking the apparent hyperspace in the tube, "'Dear girls, I'm gonna be off the Island for a few days and sent Zwei to you in the meantime. Stay safe and be sure to feed him. Love, Taiyang.'"
Shaking the tube a bit caused two dozen cans of dog food to fall on top of Zwei, who came over at the mention of food.
"And HOW is going to take care of himself while we're gone?" asked Weiss.
One more shake revealed a can opener in the tube as well.
"Okay, that settles it. Zwei will be fine until tomorrow," said Yang, heading off to pack her stuff.
Weiss and Blake followed while Ruby took another look at Zwei. Zwei looked at her as if saying 'we both know you're taking me with you.'
Ruby smirked at him in reply, as if saying, 'that was a foregone conclusion,' before getting Zwei into her backpack and heading out after her team.
RWBY joined the other first year students of all four schools as everyone looked towards the stage where Ozpin and Glynda were waiting for them.
"Quiet down please," said Glynda, "Professor Ozpin has a few words he would like to say."
"Thank you," started Ozpin, "Today we stand together, united: Mistral, Atlas, Vacuo, and Vale, the Four Kingdoms. On this day, nearly eight years ago, the largest war in Remnant's history came to an end. It was a war of ignorance, of greed, and of oppression. A war about much more than where borders fell or who traded with whom, but about the very idea of individualism itself. We fought for countless reasons, including the destruction of all forms of Art and Expression and as you are well aware, it was something many could not stand for. In their defiance of that, they started a new tradition, involving naming their children after one of the core aspects of Art itself: Color. It was their way to not only refuse the oppression thrusted on them, but that we as their descendants would not either. We encourage individuality, expressionism and unity, through diversity. As I have said, we stand together, united. But this bond cannot exist without effort. Which is why today, while the people celebrate the peace, we as Huntsmen gather to protect that peace. Starting today, you first years will shadow a Huntsman or Huntress and learn more of the effort we give so that world may remain at peace. Some of you may be taken beyond the walls while others will remain in the Kingdom for the week. Remember to be safe; remember your training; and remember to do your very best."
(AN5)
Polite applause followed as Ozpin left the stage and everyone started milling about to the Mission Boards. Ruby led the way over to Search and Destroy, where a High Priority Mission for 'Quadrant 5' was listed. Ruby entered her Team's name, and it asked for confirmation, considering the highly dangerous Grimm in the area. Ruby gave verification as Ozpin walked up, approving the mission from his extra large scroll-pad.
"Miss Rose, I do wish you well," said Ozpin, "Please, don't make me regret this."
"I won't be alone, sir," replied Ruby, "That's one thing I promised my mother when I chose this path. 'Never take a solo mission', and I won't, sir."
Ozpin nodded, remembering Summer when she was a student, before walking away.
(AN6)
"Okay, our Huntsman should be waiting at the transport ship," said Weiss as the four of them exited the building.
"LOOK! Team CFVY is back!" shouted a random student.
RWBY looked over and indeed, CFVY was back, looking exhausted if nothing else.
"Velvet, is everything okay," asked Blake of her fellow Faunus.
"We're fine. Yatsuhashi was looking out for me," replied Velvet, who had slight bags under her eyes.
Yatsu, who was walking by, barely managed to acknowledge them as he continued after Coco and Fox. Ruby headed over to Fox.
"Fox, everything okay? Everyone was worried at the office," asked Ruby.
"We're fine. Nothing twelve hours of sleep won't help," replied Fox, and even his whited eyes looked darker than usual.
"Ruby, we'll be good by tomorrow," said Coco, "I don't wish to be rude, but unless you need something, we'd like to get back to our dorm."
"I only ask that you be available tomorrow," said Ruby, "My team is trying to bring the White Fang out of hiding, and it may end up with an attempted attack on Vale. I would appreciate the backup."
"I assure you, Ruby," said Fox, placing a hand on Ruby's shoulder, "Should you need us, we will be there."
"Thank you," said Ruby, releasing a breath of relief.
(AN7)
Ruby rejoined her team as they got closer to the transport. Weiss and Blake couldn't believe who was their Huntsman. Yang resisted making a joke, and Ruby giggled at their Huntsman's statement.
"Why hello girls! Who's ready to fight for their lives?" asked Doctor Oobleck, their appointed Huntsman for the mission.
"I believe we're ready, Doctor," said Ruby.
"Good, I've already packed the essentials - minus ammunition - plotted the course, and prepped our transport ship. I'll give you two minutes to reorganize any belongings you may have."
With that, the speedy Doctor left for the ship.
"Okay, who's ready to save the world with Doctor Oobleck?" asked Ruby.
"You're... kidding, right?" asked Weiss.
"Not at all. Like Yang is resisting to say 'At least he won't slow us down,'" smirked Ruby.
"Hey, she said it, not me," defended Yang as Weiss and Blake turned to look at her.
"'Save the world'? Without us!?" exclaimed Nora dramatically as JNPR walked up, "I feel betrayed! Also a little hungry, though that's not you."
Nora glanced over at Ren, who refused to respond to that statement.
"Seems exciting," commented Pyrrha.
"We're heading outside the Kingdom to a nearby village and help the Sheriff out," informed Jaune, "We leave in the morning."
"Cool, then you can hang with us tonight," said Sun, as he and Neptune joined the group, "Neptune and I are helping out a Detective in the city."
"We even get Jr. Detective badges," added Neptune, getting another awed look from Jaune.
"Considering the last couple of times we've hung out was with you, and that also led to dangerous fights, we though we'd chill in the city without you for a change," joked Sun.
"Be careful with that shade, Sun," smirked Ruby, "It may 'eclipse' you."
(AN8)
JNPR and WBY chuckled at that joke, alongside Neptune while Sun was left half confused and half put out at being the punchline.
"Team RWBY, it is time to leave!" called out Oobleck.
"Alright guys, we better go!" declared Ruby.
With that, RWBY headed for the transport ship and towards Mountain Glenn.
(Chapter End)
I felt like more dialogue could have been added at the end, so... it spilt over into the next episode, even if only slightly. Next stop: Mount Glenn!
Author Notes...
AN1: Yes, Dust Allergy is still a thing. I'm surprised it was just a throwaway joke in episode 2, and they didn't even do it right.
AN2: This is a scene I kinda wish they had, but given the time constraints, it's understandable why it wasn't included.
AN3: Denying a secret war once is enough for the Tin Man.
AN4: Another reference to RWBY Chibi. I still have a photo of Blake snuggling with Zwei. :D
AN5: This is the war Jaune's Great Great Grandfather fought in. The one my OC Robert fought in, alongside Blake's ancestor, if only because I'm working that into my story. I wouldn't argue against Blake's ancestor(s) fighting in that war, but still... WW2 in our world was, what, 74 years ago... so yeah... conceptual comparison.
AN6: Not sure how many people speculate Ozpin's age, but I put him around 55-ish. He was 29 when he first got the position, STRQ started at 17 and 3-4 years later they'd be 20-21. Fast forward 17+ more years and that would put STRQ at least 39-40 going into Volume 1-3 at their youngest. Since Oz would be bare minimum 12 years older than STRQ, given this concept, it would put him at 51-52+. The Gray Hair is either similar to Kakashi's from Naruto and it's his natural color, or... he's actually over 50 and his hair has turned Gray from whatever natural color it once was. If you have any thoughts you want to share, or any theories of your own if he's actually younger, be my guest.
AN7: Ruby isn't psychic or seeing the future, she's actually just being prepared. If things go south, having a team like CFVY being your backup is welcomed indeed.
AN8: If anyone can guess what I'm "Foreshadowing," I'll mention you in the chapter when this plays out.
Happy Mother's Day! I'm looking forward to the rest of this Volume, and indeed Volume 3, where more original content will be added in.
Thanks for reading and look forward to more "Reaper of Grimm" soon-ish!
Until then...
Later,
RDF1