Four Hearts of One Journey:Beginnings

by Owriush

It's been quite a few months since team RWBY was formed and for this team. They have become well known for overcoming the impossible, but will they be able to overcome their newest challenge ahead. Join Ruby Rose, Weiss Schnee, Blake Belladonna and Yang Xiao Long along with many new allies. As they become the chosen Keyblade wielders to fight off a growing darkness.

7. Chapter 7

Hello readers!

So here we are. Chapter six and for those who had read my previous story re-write of this chapter. It's not exactly the same, but similar in some ways. That should go only for this chapter and maybe a two or three more that come in later on. After that everything will be brand new from then on.

Anyways took just a bit on this mainly because I was actually going through some very critical changes to make sure I was okay with everything, what to take out for the later stories and etc. Anyways all is good and I'm happy with what I've chalked up for the story as a whole, which in turn I hope you all feel the same too once I post the rest up.

Oh also. I actually have another story that's connected to this story world. But it takes place a bit after the events of FHOJ-B and the two other sequels I am working on slowly. So some spoilers might apply to that story if you want to read it. It's called Chaldea Reacts and is mainly a Fate Grand Order centric one.

Speaking of some spoilers for certain shows may apply in this chapter and later ones. One of the shows being Cyberpunk Edgerunners in this particular chapter and it's around the later parts of it. Couldn't get past them this time as well as I had other times. So I apologize for that. That said I always say this. 'Spoilers should just make you more curious on HOW the heck the events of the viewed media got there in the first place.' So just keep that in mind.

Oh and also just for the fun of it. Like last time I gave my story an opening song and ending song. The OP here at least setting a bit of the tone the story will have at points. Also, you're gonna have to just look up the song on YouTube yourself since the link to the song won't for some reason stay on here, idk. But again give it a listen if ya feel like it.

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Re-Post Message: Okay sorry for the wait for this to be reposted. I got really busy when my job started up again for one, and also because I got covid and though it didn't last too long. It took me a while more to recover, so there's that. Anyways this will be re-posted up first and then the chapter after should be up in a few days. Oh, also this chapter wasn't changed much aside from some dialogue and grammar changes. But the next re-post chapter will for sure be a bit different.

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Anyways here's the opening song. Enjoy: Élan Vital - Simple and Clean ft. Emily Torres (Kingdom Hearts Cover)

That's all I wanted to say on the top notes and will say more on the bottom once you read this chapter. So enjoy the chapter now fellow readers.

I do not in any way own the legal property rights to RWBY and all other franchise included within this story. RWBY in spirit will always belong to Rooter Teeth and Monty Oum. Whatever future awaits for the series we'll just have to wait and see more on. Kingdom Hearts belongs to Disney/ Square Enix. All other franchise belongs to respective companies.

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[It's okay to be afraid. But to conquer those fears you must take the first step into a world beyond your comprehension.]

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Four Hearts of one Journey Beginnings

Ch.6

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Strange new friends

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It was a new day or night in this place known as Traverse Town…

A town that was home to refugees from other worlds, worlds that were taken by the darkness, worlds where they were taken themselves individually or for those who have lost their home worlds for good.

Each refugee now called this place for the time, home. A rather quiet one too. Then again no other civilians lived here aside from the refugees. So that could part of the reason for such silence in most of the districts of the town.

Though tonight would be different…

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"BE GONE DEMONS. YOU WILL ALL FALL TO MY BLADE IF YOU CONTINUE!"

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.

.

Yep, defiantly not the average night…

The one yelling in defiance was a man. One who was probably at least in his mid-twenties by his looks alone. Though he could be older too honestly. You never knew when it came to genetics, etc.

Anyways this man wore a set of metal armor around his arms and his legs down to his knees. A metal spiked crown helmet with a sheet of chainmail that warped his and some metal covering his nose. For the clothing, he wore brown leather pants that were covered by the leg armor and by a dirty white cloth like skirt. He sported brown leather boots with some studs and had red ribbons tied around his arms. The oddest thing though about this man was the red cloth cross stitched to the very skin of his chest. He gave a sort of hardcore holy warrior vibes to be honest. Currently this man was killing off a few darks creatures or the Heartless, primarily Shades that were trying to kill him; and with large scythe of all things.

The scythe itself looked to be made of bone for the most part and was quite flexible. A gear like center held the bone handle and metal scythe together, and looked like it could turn the blade upwards if needed. Though this man also seemed to use a cross that was tied around the belt of his pants. As evident from the blasts of light shaped crosses that fired out once in a while when he used the cross itself.

All in all this man was killing as many heartless as they appeared. Not giving an inch to them in their attempt to kill him for whatever reason he had no idea still on.

Now many may wonder who this man is. This man goes by the name of Dante Alighieri. A Templar who had only a while ago come back from a war to reclaim the Holy Lands of Jerusalem from the dubbed 'Heretics'. Best left unsaid on what Dante had to… do in that war. Yes, better left unsaid.

Still Dante had been making his way back to his home to be with his beloved to be soon wife, Beatrice. Who his father had allowed to stay at their home while Dante was out to war. Only when he made his way home. He found instead of his father and the love of his life waiting for him, that his home had been broken into.

The Dante had found his father dead on the ground. Under a pool of dry blood and with the golden cross neckless he wore stabbed right through his left eye. Even if his father had been an abusive wife beater and a greedy son of bitch who lorded over those less than them. Dante had felt a sadness seeing the man who raised him, even after his mother had die of illness. Dead.

It had only become worse when he ran outside the back and found his beloved Beatrice dead as well. Laying on her back side in her lovely yellow dress somewhat ripped as her right breast was exposed. As if she had been running and was grabbed by the dress itself that must have ripped a bit before being attacked. A stab wound through her stomach indicated enough. Her lovely blue eyes wide open in horror with a few dry tear stains. Dante having seen this had fallen to his knees, mourning his loves death. Only for it to be cut short when the Devil himself appeared. Taking Beatrices soul down to Hell.

Dante though would not have it. As he took chase towards the demon to the gates of Hell, taking the cross his love had on her body at the time. Along with his new scythe as well he had taken from Death itself, when… well that's a story for another time.

Either way Dante fought through hordes of undead to the gates of Hell itself. Which he tried to open with little luck. Then only to be grabbed by hands that sprouted from the ground. Forcing a long red cloth around his arms. Before stitching the large red cloth cross connected to his skin by force. By the end Dante was left on his knees. As pain and grief filled his soul.

Until he was greeted by a ally of his named Virgil who was a well-known old poet sent down by Beatrice to help Dante by a pray that said 'Help him, my friend and love is lost'. A pray Virgil answered and helped Dante with getting his mind back to his new goal. To save his beloved Beatrice from the damnation of Hell for a sin he most likely was guilty of.

With that, Dante with his new found strength and determination forced the gates of Hell open. Then willing leaping down into the Hell itself to save his love by traversing the nine circles of Hell.

He had been through already the first circle Limbo, killing both Charon the Ferryman of the Undead by crashing the boat infused man itself by ripping his head off with the help of one of the many larger demons of the realm.

Then Dante killed the ruler of that circle, King Minos the Judge of the Damned. By weakening him enough to pull his snake like tongue on the very wheel of fate that he used to judge those damned. Followed by forcing said wheel to slice his face in half. Rather gruesome too all things considered.

After that he went through the second circle of Hell; Lust. Fighting rather…provocative demons and even sadly babies too that had been damned because they had died before being baptism. Facing at the end then the ruler of that circle, Cleopatra. Though she did have her guard dog Anothy fight him first. Dante quickly defeated the man much to the mourning of Cleopatra. Only to impale her with his scythe a second later after she tried doing one last ditch effort to seduce him and then rip his throat out. Which she obviously failed at.

Then he passed through the third circle of hell, Gluttony. Killing the three headed now worm beast Cerberus by slicing two of its heads off. Before being eaten by the last. Only to blow that head up using his cross to do so. Though he also had been forced by the devil to watch the assassin who'd killed his father and Beatrice. Do it all over again.

Why, well again that's left to unsaid as he still refused to believe 'THAT' was why this all had happened. The Bishop had cleansed them of all sins had he not. Surely he had been cleaned without sin after all was said and done. Yes… yes that had to be it.

Still Dante had been going to the next circle of Hell, the fourth one of Greed. Before he was whisked away all of sudden by the strange dark creatures he was fighting off now with all his might. In a place so strange even if it resembled what one would considered normal housing. All in all Dante was having a much more confusing day then beforehand. Considering what he'd been through too, that was saying A LOT.

So now we return to the current predicament Dante was experiencing as he slashes Shade after Shade. His fury holding no bounds as he did so. Though he was starting to get tired all things considered. His body finally starting to feel its toll after all he'd done up to this point.

Sadly a sudden moment he took to take a quick breath and a Shade took advantage of it. Slashing his right side as it left a three mark wound, which began to bleed out quickly.

"GAH. DAMN YOU!" Dante screamed. Before using the end of his scythe to smash in the skull of the damnable monster that had wounded him. A small sickening 'crunch' echoed. Before he dropped his scythe, covering his bleeding wound while taking out his cross to use for the time being. The ever slowly growing group of Shades by this point were circling him like a pack wolfs to a lost little sheep. Dante could only scowl as his cross began to glow its usual ethereal blue "I will not fall now. Not before I save my beloved. So come at me foul demons I'll take you all on!"

The Shades seem to close in closer and closer after Dantes little threat. The man himself scowling as the wound he'd received had been a good one that was for sure. But he couldn't let it end like this. Not when his beloved innocent Beatrice still needed him. Though as if an angel was watching over him, suddenly two figures standing above an upper section of this area. Leapt down before one of them landed fist first into the Shades below.

A small 'BOOM', followed by Shades flying away as the end result. Dante covering his eyes from the sudden wind pressure before he cringed yet again. The pain from his wound acting up and he almost fell to his knees. Only to feel a large arm sling under him to help keep his balance.

"Are you okay?" A deep if not clam voice asked. As Dante looked to the one who was helping him stay up. Flinched a bit too when he came face to face with a Jaguar mask of all things. But before he could say more. The man who'd helped him chuckled "Don't worry. I don't bite."

Dante would have laughed just a bit from the small joke, if not for him still being in some pain. Though he did get a better look at the man. He was taller than him that was for sure and even he'll admit. This man beat him also in muscle mass. His dark olive skin only showing around his arms and neck, while the rest of his body was covered in black armor and strapped to his back was a large sword. Though the Jaguar mask was the oddest thing for sure. But before Dante could even say something back, the other one who'd leaped down cut in.

"A good joke Guin. Not even ten minutes and I'm rubbing off on you. So glad haha!" A woman stated cheerfully as Dante looked seeing her looking back at them. While the Shades that remained were getting back up slowly on their stubby little legs

At closer inspection the woman was at least near the early twenties. Maybe twenty-two or twenty three at least. The outfit she wore too was odd Dante will admit and not one he was used to seeing women in general wear. As she wore tight pants in a black coloring, red plated boots, red plated gauntlets and a sleeveless top that had a hood she wore over her head. In the colors of red and also black. Though her midriff was exposed showing her fair pale skin. While her black hair under her hood and yellow eyes of all things stood out. But no weapon on the woman could be seen, aside from what was in her right hand. Which was a handle of sorts without a hilt or blade oddly.

"What can I say. I'm a quick leaner when I need to be Ikail." Guin remarked. Ikail chuckling some before turning her attention to Dante. Who was still just staring at her as she smirked

"Hm…like what you see cutie?" Ikail teased winking a little as Dante suddenly felt his cheeks burn up a bit at the statement

"W-What no. I'm sorry I ah…ah I'm a taken man. Honest I wasn't being perverse my lady!" Dante tried to explain. Mainly since he didn't want to be seen as a dirty pervert by someone he just met. Ikail chuckled some more. Which quickly made Dante realize that he'd been a victim of some teasing "Wait… were you just teasing me?"

"Guilty as charge. But you are SO easy I can see!" Ikail mused as the remaining Shades finally were back on their feet, if not a bit dazed still

"Don't mind Ikail. From what I've learned she's a prankster." Guin remarked as Ikail seemed proud of that statement. Despite her sticking her tongue out at Guin "By the way. What's your name?"

"Dante and…Lady Ikail, you do know-" Dante answered as he had only now noticed a few of the Shades behind Ikail were about to lunge at the woman. Only he was cut off when Ikail proved she was MUCH more capable then she seemed

For Ikail suddenly did something as she held her left hand up. Making a chocking motion as the Shades all froze mid-air. Looking like they were being chocked by something. Then a second later Ikail did something to the handle in her right hand as it shot out a long angelic blue blade of light from Dantes point of view. Only to then do a twirl as all the Shades were sliced in half. Seconds later Ikail turned off her blade, then clipped it back on her belt. All the while smiling like this was TOTALLY normal for her.

"There we go. Pesky annoyances have been dealt with. Now we can go back to me teasing the ever loving life out of you Dante?" Ikail remarked smirking some more now as she put her hands behind her back. Which oddly made her look much more innocent then her pervious actions showed "Though maybe we should find someone who lives here to help us. Guin buddy, what do you think?"

"I…w-what?" Dante himself only said as he could not fathom what he just witness Ikail do and how easily she did it

"Honestly I think that's our best bet Ikail. But where to start?" Guin responded back. Seeming to pay no mind to what Ikail did akin to literally God powers from Dante's perspective

"Wait…wait hold on just a seco-" Dante once more said. This time wanting an answer from Ikail, only to be cut off by the very woman

"Hm maybe we can knock on a few doors. Ask the locals if they know anything. I mean SOMEONE has too right?" Ikail suggested

"Um excuse me?" Dante sternly addressed but again no response. So he slumped some realizing that he was now just a mere ghost in this banter

"Oh yes. I'm sure people will response well to three armored and armed people asking them questions." Guin exclaimed bluntly. But also just being honest too from his point of view. Ikail pouted some as Guin sighed "I was just being realistic here Ikail. No need to pout."

"Well yeah but… blah!" Ikail tried to argue. But blushed some when she realized Guin had a point. Then she noticed Dante in his current slump like manner "Hm. Dante are you okay?"

Dante looked back up at Ikail frowning some as his right eye twitched. Now he really wasn't sure if this woman at least was being serious or she was messing with him again. Dear lord in heaven he prayed that he'd be able to survive the future if these two were to be a part of it now. Especially Ikail. Still he sighed and at least was going to answer the woman.

"Yes…yes I am. But to answer both your questions. It may be better if we find a town leader or someone of importance. But like Guin said too. Where to start?" Dante said. Deciding to put his own advice here since this would affect all three of them

But again as if an angel or even God by this point. Was watching over the holy warrior. Suddenly a pair of two footsteps could be heard from their left. Looking, they saw two young women. One seeming maybe a year or three older while the other one looked barley out of her teens.

The older one was a slight taller girl with lovely peach skin, pretty blue eyes and pretty brunette hair tied in a braided pony tail. A cute little pink bow holding it together could be seen. Though her pretty pink dress, cloth wrist bands, neck band and cute brown shoes only made the older woman much more adorable. But she did have strapped to her right hip what looked to be a red collapsible staff.

Then came the younger one. Who was the young girl called Yuffie and who had joined her older friend, Aerith Gainsborough who Yuffie loved as an older sister by this point in time. But had joined her to check out some noise they had overheard after they'd taken the hour before to speak with their new guest before. That and make sure the two idiots Atlan, and Jin really didn't get into fist fight again. Still Yuffie was the one to speak to the three newcomers.

"Hiya. I'm Yuffie. This is one of besties and big sisters Aerith, and I apologize. BUT… we may have overheard that you three are looking for answers. Well look no further. Because we can help ya out!" Yuffie happily cheered. Ikail, Guin and Dante simply started at the young girl

"Hehe. I apologize for Yuffie, she's a very energetic girl. But a sweet one too." Aerith happily said patting the top of Yuffie's head. As Yuffie blushed some at the sisterly gesture, averting her gaze and trying to act like she didn't like the affection. Aerith simply giggled at the usual adorable reaction from one she saw as a little sister in all but blood. Then she turned her attention back to the three before them "But Yuffie is correct. We were coming in to check when one our other friends from out of the hotel here. Heard the commotion and I know for a fact we'll be able to give you the run down."

"Hm…boys?" Ikail in sudden shift in mood from playful to thoughtful asked. Keeping an eye on Aerith and Yuffie, just in case they were playing innocent only in mannerisms

"I think we should Ikail. We may barely know them but if they DO have answers or whoever else they're with has them. It's a better lead then we had moments ago." Dante answered back first. As it really was the only lead they had now. Though it was also because Dante could easily tell these two young women. Armed as they were, were also sincere; it was gift of his since he was but a lad

"I agree with Dante. What do we have to lose." Guin answered next. As it was better than nothing, besides like Dante at least. He could tell Yuffie and Aerith were genuine ones. Then again with the one's he traveled with before being whisked away. He had experience in spotting the genuinely goods ones, well sometimes at least

"Hm… okay then. Aerith, Yuffie if would so kindly lead us back to your friend or wherever we can go for our answers. That would be most appreciated." Ikail in a much more mature tone stated. As she gave the two a quick bow

"Sounds like plan. Let's go!" Yuffie cheered as she was about to make her way up the stairs to the hotel. But stopped to ask the three something, just as a precautionary since she didn't any of them to freak out by some of the others. "AH…before we go. Can I ask. But do any of you know or have known any A.I's, superhero's, witches, vampires, living dolls and just people who could be considered unique. Like at all?"

Aerith for a moment almost, ALMOST face palmed at such a question. While Ikail, Guin and Dante raised an eyebrow. Dante being the only one to say something from such a sudden and random question.

"Huh?" Dante asked. As that sounded the dumbest thing to ask any sane person on any day

Yuffie simply, if not sheepishly laughed. Like she realized how random such a question to three near strangers were. Aerith yet again almost faced palmed as she simply started to make her way up back to the hotel. Motioning Yuffie, Ikail, Guin and Dante to follow.

Aerith though was happy things with these three like the others had gone over without any issues. At least what Yuffie had told her when she asked. She'd been worried since there had been another sudden spike of energy coming from the First District where Sid's shop was at. One where a few friends from her world and those from some of the others world we're going to check out.

Again Aerith could only pray when it came to them, that if a fight started. That it wouldn't end with too many bruises or broken bones or… oh boy. Well if any case like were to happen.

At least she knows a good couple of healing spells to help out the docs…

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It had been in total an hour of utter uselessness…

That was what the newest refuges in this town had wasted a WHOLE hour trying to find anyone to give them answers but no luck. Then they tried finding posters, food vendors and even boxes to see if there were any kind of answers for them or at least some kind of information on this place. But no luck one bit and by this point spirits were a bit down because of it.

"UGH…. Come on seriously. None of us got a single decent answer!?" Nora screamed to the heavens, as she was irritated by this point. Almost having broken a window near the end. Thankfully Yang and Donald stopped her before could. Though it didn't help when she remembered they were missing two of their own "Still… I can't believe we lost Pyrrha and Jaune."

"We all feel the same. But It will be okay Nora. I know it will." Ruby reassured her friend even though she felt a bit distraught too "We… we just need to keep looking around. I'm there will be someone who has answers."

"An astute observation Ruby and I do too understand your feelings right now. I truly do, but we also must not let ourselves be overcome by despair. You are hunters and huntress in all but experience. We'll get through this as long as we stick together and keep our spirits up." Ozpin kindly exclaimed. His tone full of vigor still as the rest of his and Glynda's students with them felt their spirits raise a bit. Heck even Donald and Goofy felt their spirits rise up

"He's good." Goofy quipped as Donald nodded in agreement

"Well that's Ozpin for you guy." Ren answered back as he was agreement with Donald and Goofy

"Thanks Ozpin. I think we all can agree but we…we needed that." Velvet mused. The others of the student body nodding in agreement

"Well our little pouts and issues aside for now. Maybe we should check in the store over there?" Coco stated. Thumbing to the store on their right, with a neon sign that said 'Sid's Junk and Stuff'. Weiss the only one to make a comment on that

"Really Coco. A junk store?" Weiss questioned in a deadpanned manner. As she raised an eyebrow at the suggestion

"Oh I'm sorry. Is it TOO dirty for your poshness Weiss?" Coco snapped back a bit, rather it be nerves or something else irking her still; who knows

"A jab at me being rich. How original Coco. Very good. I clap and clap for such an obvious remarked." Weiss snapped back too. Her own agitation getting to her after such events today

"You little stuck up bi-" Coco started to yell. About to flip Weiss off before punching her in the face. Good friends or not. Thankfully Ruby cut in before it could go any further

"GRILS!" Ruby screamed. The suddenness of it making most flinch. Especially Weiss and Coco as all eyes turned to Ruby. Ruby giving those in her ire currently a stern gaze as she placed her hands on her hips "What did Ozpin just say and here you both are getting at each other's throats. Now Coco I get it, you're a bit upset still. But that doesn't mean you get to take it out on us!"

"Well ah yeah I guess…" Coco shyly responded back. Rubbing the back of her head as she felt a little embarrassed having let her usual cool attitude slip and towards a friend most of all. Ruby wasn't done though as she turned her attention fully on Weiss

"And sweetie. That was rude of you to dismiss Coco's suggestion like that. She was trying to help and you being snarky about it wasn't called for." Ruby scolded once more. Weiss shyly looking to the ground at the realizing that her wife had a point there

"I…yes you're right dear. I'm sorry." Weiss apologized as she felt like a fool for getting snarky there and towards a friend who was just trying to help

"I know. But don't say sorry to me, say it to Coco and Coco. You do the same got me?" Ruby ordered. Both older girls looking to Ruby and slowly nodded that they understood. Before they faced each other again, a bit shy now from their embarrassment

"Um…I'm sorry Coco. I shouldn't have been so snarky there. Really I am and it sounds like a good idea. Honest." Weiss apologized first. As she gave her friend a small smile and hoped this little incident would just be forgotten

"Thanks and I'm sorry too. I shouldn't be taking my frustration out on you. Can we forgive and forget Weiss?" Coco apologized back. Smiling herself as she held her arms out for a hug

"Hehe. Of course Coco." Weiss cheerfully stated. Walking up to Coco as she and the older girl gave each other a hug

"D'aw, friends making up is so adorable!" Nora screamed in glee. Her mood getting better form this alone already. All the while grabbing Ren and Fox into a two arm hug of her own seconds later "SO ADORABLE!"

"N-Nora…air…please…." Ren pleaded. Though more for Fox who already looked like his soul had been squeezed out of his body, since Ren himself was use to Nora's one arm bear hugs

"Life…flashing…before…eyes…s-stupid waffles…." Fox using his semblance. Muttered as he couldn't for the life of him understand how Ren was still alive after what he assumed was a usual thing when it came to guys somewhat insane best friend/ possible girlfriend

Meanwhile as that happened, Weiss and Coco ceased their hug and were simply just glad to be on good terms again. That and still feeling a bit silly for getting worked up. Understandably from again the events of today. But still all was better once more.

"Good to see you're both on good terms again. Also Ruby, good stern talking to if you don't me saying." Glynda remarked as she gave Ruby a pat on the shoulder, Much to the red theme girls own bashfulness from the praise alone. Moments later Glynda ceased the kind pat then looked back at the store Coco had pointed out "Hm. We'll let us see if maybe the owner has any information for us. If it does… please let it have someone."

"Agreed… totally agree with you Glynda. Well lead the way." Yang chimed in with a somewhat nervous smile if they found that no one ran the shop and it was for…well whatever the reason was

"Let's just hope for the best." Yatsuhashi muttered. As he really did hope this store had and owner and that owner had SOMETHING akin to information

So with that everyone in the group followed Glynda towards then into the store. Once inside and the door closed behind the last to enter. They looked around to see the store was spacious. It wasn't empty, as it had shelves and display tables of well whatever was being sold here from the junk store. But still the nice white walls and ceiling added a much needed professionalism to the establishment as well. They didn't see the owner though, that was worrying so far but they had to keep up their hopes.

"So… think they're out to lunch maybe?" Velvet questioned. Though that was the more obvious explanation there and hopefully THE actual explanation

"Hm. Maybe, but if anyone is here then why leave the door open. I'm sure…HK what are you doing?" Blake stated. Before she and the others saw HK-97 walk up to the counter where a bell was at

"Answer: Simply seeing if I can get the owner who might be here. To move his quote on quote 'Ass' up here for us Mistress Blake. Observe." HK-97 happily answered. Before he hovered his hand over the bell itself. Velvet at least realized quickly what the mechanical man was about to do. In response, she covered her animal ears

Then without warning. HK-97 with his right index finger. Quickly in rapid pace, rung the bell on the counter over and over…and over again. 'DING, DING, DING' echoed loudly within the store. Everyone else covering their own ears or cringing from how loud the constant dings were becoming. Until the bell had enough. As from the friction alone it exploded. Causing a few to yelps and moving back a few inches from the group to avoid the small pieces from hitting them in the eyes or face.

"Queary: Oh my that's a little embarrassing. I hope the owner isn't TOO mad." HK-97 mused. The girls of team RWBY at least look at their droid bodyguard with deadpanned stares. As they knew the droid was smart enough to realize that would have happened in the first place. That and they swore they heard more humor in his tone then regret

"HK, did you really h-" Yang began to say. To scold the droid a bit for obviously doing that for fun and to mess with the store owner. Only to be cut off by who she assumed was the owner of this place

"Alright. Alright dammit all, what the heck do you…" The man began to say making his way out to the front and sounding rather irritated. Before he stopped seeing HK-97 and the rest staring back at him. Though the group did get a good look at the man, whose name they assumed was Sid considering the stores name

Sid was definingly an older gentlemen. If the lines of age on his slightly light tanned skin indicated that enough. Though his bright blue eyes and short if not spiked up blonde hair added a bit of youth to the man's looks. Speaking of his looks he wore a simple white shirt, with a smudge or two of grease on it. A pair of blue pants and wore black shoes. On the top of his head was an old pair of red goggles and his back hunched a bit. Which only added to the man's older appearance. Sid though quickly noticed his bell was in pieces. Narrowing his eyes as he looked at HK-97 first and then looked behind the droid at the others.

"Hey this your droid. Cause he just broke my bell. You're lucky he didn't break the counter itself!" Sid angrily exclaimed. Not happy one bit since that had been the only bell he'd had since getting stuck in this town and now it was broken

"Oh ah sorry mister. Hk-97 didn't mean too. He was just trying to get your attention. He's very sorry." Ruby quickly apologized. Mustering up a kind smile, if not nervous one too as she and the rest eyed HK-97 "Right HK?"

"Statement: Why of course Mistress Ruby. I merely did so to get the kind 'Gentlemen's' attention and not to totally mess with him because he was taking a nap during his work hours. Why of course not that." HK-97 in a rare moment of utter glee answered. His tone alone clearly conveyed he totally just wanted to screw with Sid, probably out of spite

"HK?!" Ruby yelled back through her teeth. Though keeping her smile up as to not prove to Sid that she was in fact incorrect with her assessment… despite the fact it was pretty obvious

"I swear we didn't teach him this…" Weiss muttered. Slumping backwards a little as she hadn't for the life of her figured out where HK had been learning to be just more sassy in general. Was it one of them by accident showing him such behavior or was it pre-programmed for who knows why

"I dunno Weiss. You and Yang at least-" Donald began to tease. Before he felt an aura of death coming from Weiss and Yang who were just… smiling at him

"I'm sorry Donald me and my sister didn't hear you. Did you say you like medium rare cooked duck?" Weiss exclaimed in wickedly sweet tone

"And did you say you liked the duck extra tender?" Yang added in with a very wickedly tone as she showed Donald her right clenched fist

"AT LEAST… are responsible enough to not be bad influences on HK!" Donald quickly corrected with a sheepish smile, as Weiss and Yang simply gave the duck man a thumbs up

"ANYWAYS…" Blake loudly said. Getting everyone's attention back to the main reason any of them even came into this store in the first place "Look mister. We're sorry for HK. We'll have a talk with him about his behavior later. But we came in here hoping that maybe someone was here and that someone. Being you, would have SOME information about well…whatever's going on and where we even are."

Sid took a moment to register what Blake had just said. That and subsided his anger from seconds earlier. But when his mind did fully register what he'd heard. He sighed realizing what exactly had happened to these people here.

"Oh boy. We got more now after all this time…okay look. You folks said you got no idea what's going on, meaning you're all new?" Sid questioned as everyone else just slowly nodded. Another sigh a second later and Sid knew this would be a hopefully half an hour or more likely an hour explanation at least "Right. Right. Okay folks you better get comfy because I need you to tell me EXACTLY what happened before you ended up in Traverse Town. Then I'll explain what's going on."

With the group they all looked right at Glynda. Who noticed and grumbled some that she was being made to do all the talking. Then again maybe that for the best. Out of them all, she knew she was the better speaker. So she cleared her throat then focused all her attention to Sid.

"Alright then. So anyways, it all started when we were rudely awoken and attacked by these things called heartless." Glynda began to explaining. Hoping for dust sakes that this wouldn't take TOO long

But let's be honest. When is any good story so short and simple…

---

Turns out a story like Glynda's did NOT take so long. So there was that…

Oh yes it had been short. So now here the group was, having been listening to everything Sid was explaining. From this town, its purpose for the time being, his own world where he and friends of his were taken from. When the heartless attacked too. Followed by the last fact of his explanation. One which wasn't the most hopeful in their current predicament.

"And that's that. We've been stuck here for well… a while. With no way of getting back home for the time. If what's been explained. You folks are sadly in the same situation as us now. Sorry to say, but that's all there is to it." Sid finished off. Having explained at the moment only the truth of their situation. Though that didn't make him feel less guilty for souring their moods "Sorry folks. Didn't mean to be the bearer of bad news. But that's just how it is."

"Oh no Mister Sid it's fine. Honest, it's better we know now then never or later. Still thanks for being honest Mister Sid." Velvet reassured. A small smile donning on her face while her bunny ears relaxed like a way to show it was fine

"Geez missy. Just Sid, call me Sid. I'm not THAT old yet. The wrinkles excluded." Sid joked some. Which seemed to help out a bit as most of them either snorted or chuckled at the joke. Sid though feeling a bit generous pulled out from under his counter. An ice cooler and opened it "Let's just say. This is me being nice to the new people."

Without a second more the group moved closer to see a bunch of blue popsicles. Realizing this was Sid's way of helping them feel even a bit better. Ozpin took the initiative. Taking one of the icy treats before handing it to Ruby, then to Yatsuhashi, then on and on before everyone had one. Having waited for one another they all took a bit out of their treat. Before another and another, and…well you get the point.

After about two minutes tops. Everyone had finished the treat and thrown the wooden sticks into a small trash bin. Seeming satisfied it was Ruby who spoke up first about the treat they'd been given. A big smile following in suit too.

"Yummy. It was sweet and yet salty too. But it was really good!" Ruby in childlike glee squealed. As now she needed to make cookies one day with a similar taste as she just knew it would be good

"I'll admit I'm not for sweets much. But that was good." Yatsuhashi stated. Like the rest, he too found the rather sweet yet salty treat a surprisingly delicious one

"What are these called if you don't mind me asking Sid?" Ren asked. As he too like Yatsuhashi, wasn't a sweets fan much. But he did enjoy this treat in particular. Thankfully too it seemed Nora hadn't gone into a sugar rush, so that was plus

"Sea-Salt Ice Cream. When I first laid claim to this place for my shop. I found the recipe. Alongside a pile of sugar, salt, sticks and ice cream. All packed in the back freezer. So thought this would be a nice side treat to be selling." Sid explained before he yawned "Sorry to kick you all out folks. But I think I need some more rest again. I hope you all get some more answers sooner than later and ah…stay safe okay. Wouldn't want to lose new potential customers…hehe…yeah."

"We get ya Sid. Thanks, really. Oh actually before we do that…" Yang answered. Giving the older man a thankfully nod before looking over to HK-97. Ruby, Wiess and Blake did too oddly; like it was sort of mental bond between them in situations like these "HK. Do you want to say something to Sid?"

"Confusion: Whatever do you mean Mistress Yang. I do not remember doing anything that would warrant an apology to the man." HK-97 replied trying to feint ignorance and innocents. Ruby, Blake and Weiss joined in to 'Help' their loyal friend remember

"Really. Like the fact we can ASSUME. You just broke Sid's bell out of spite?" Weiss mused crossing her arms. As she really was starting to wonder if HK's creators pre-programed him to be this way at times, again if so then 'WHY'

"Hesitant confusion: N-No, perish the thought Mistress Weiss. I am but a gentlebot. You ladies should know that by now." HK-97 argued, though the stern stares from his mistresses were actually making him nervous for once. They had become quite accustomed to knowing about his little nervous quirks

"So why did you just say 'Hesitant Confusion' right now. Hm?" Blake questioned. Raising an eyebrow as she tried her best not to laugh since she found this amusing more than anything

"Very hesitant confusion: Errrr….." HK-97 tried to argued once more. But he couldn't for the life of him since his voice modulator ratted him out by simply how it functioned. Sometimes he wondered why the creators of the HK series installed his voice modulator to say what he type of speech he was making. Still he could salvage this, hopefully "Kindly statement: Why Mistresses I would ask you to kindly stop worrying about this. You wouldn't want to ruin your lovely complexions now would you?"

"Ha, charming compliments aren't going to sway us. But thank you HK." Ruby exclaimed, smirking "Still HK. Please apologize to Sid here."

Ruby then did what was her signature weapon. Her truly most dangerous, deadly weapon. She tilted her head just a bit to the right. Then did her dubbed by Yang. Her 'Rosey Posey Puppy Dog Stare'. The battle was over before it started as HK-97, bearing the full brunt of it. Fell to the stare.

"Defeated: HNNGGG… fine. Fine I will do so Mistresses." HK-97 said sighing as he knew his mistresses had won. Sighing he looked back to Sid who had the most smug smirk on his face. HK-97 was SO gonna hate this "Rel…Apologies: Sid, I apologize. I will… somehow make up for that broken bell. Does that…suffice?"

"Heh, yeah it does bucket head. Anyways you all get to going. I need a nap for real. Still if you ever need some supplies. Just come to good old Sid's." Sid kindly remarked as the group and a grumbling HK-97 made their way out

Sid meanwhile started his way to the back of his store for a quick nap. But he had to admit, these folks were quite the odd ones. But hey in way they all were odd. But Sid already knew he was gonna like them plenty enough. They'd make thing rather fun around here.

Still outside now our somewhat more hopeful group stood outside the front of Sid's shop. All of them taking a moment or so to take in the fact they were stuck in Traverse Town for who knows how long. Silence filled the air for a bit. Before Glynda and Ozpin decided to speak up, since they were the teachers in this group. They needed to at least try to help their students feel better.

"Kids." Glynda said as her students looked to her now as she smiled "I know this isn't the best situation for us. But we all need to remember we still have each other. Me and Ozpin will do what we can to help keep you safe. We promise as your teachers and as your friends."

"Glynda's correct. So don't fret, one way or another we'll get out of this and we'll keep each other safe. We hunters and huntresses stick together." Ozpin added in. As the teens of their group, felt much better now from the words of their older friends

"And don't forget us kids. You got good old Donald!" Donald said first with a smile of his own

"Ug-huck and you got good old Goofy to back ya up!" Goofy added in with his trade mark chuckle as that helped even more with then teens mood

"They're right. We're all here and we're all gonna get through this together. So let's do it!" Ruby cheered in glee as she stood in a proud stance while by accident this time at least; her Keyblade summoned into her hands

"YEAH!" Blake, Weiss and Yang cheered seconds later. Raising their arms up in pride from their leader/friends/sisters words in this moment. Summoned their own Keyblades too. Then a few seconds passed before any of the four realized what they did and ended up staring at their new weapons

The others noticed mostly more on team RWBY's sudden slight uneasiness when it came to their new weapons. Each girl having a similar stare that screamed 'Why us?'. Considering the fact that it was only them four who had been given these new weapons.

"Girls?" Ren asked. The four of team RWBY flinching for a moment, before looking to Ren "Are you okay. You know we don't blame any of you for this, right?"

"We…we know Ren. It's just…" Weiss muttered. As she tightened the grip on her Keyblades handle narrowing her eyes just a little. As she just wanted to throw this stupid weapon away, but knew that wasn't a good idea "It's just why us. Me and the girls aren't any different from everyone else. We're just normal."

"Heh… Weiss. No offense honestly here, but you and the girls are anything BUT normal." Nora carefully blurted out as team RWBY were quite confused by that statement

"Nora could have used a bit more tact IMO. But she's right, no offense too. But you four are something special." Coco said. A small smile of comfort donned her face as she knew this was sudden news for the girls

"W-What. No, pff no. No way, we're just normal girls. NORMAL." Yang tried to argue. As she really didn't think she and the girls were more special than anyone else. Though it seemed her friends didn't think the same

"Yang. You girls were the only group of first years to take out a Nevermore with no back up what so ever; and that was before any of you became an official team. That and it was during the first years test." Glynda bluntly laid it out there. For the girls to truly realize just how different they were already from everyone else

"That and some of the stories I've heard during the school year so far. All involved four girls, first years of team RWBY." Yatsuhashi exclaimed. Though the girls flinched at the fact none of them had realized they were so famous apparently

"Me and Donald have heard some of those stories too gals and we gotta agree with everyone else. You four are something special here." Goofy added in as he did feel bad for the girls. But he did hope they'd see that it wasn't so bad to be special like they were

"That…" Ruby tried to say. But she felt her throat choke up some at the sudden news of their fame

"I can't be. It just can't be. Can it?" Weiss questioned. Blake and Yang just silent as they were simply just shocked by this news

"Girls. You just have to come with to terms here. But like it or not, you are different from us. That's not a bad thing. If those weapons chosen you four to be their wielders in the end. Then I personally couldn't think of any other four who deserved them more than you girls." Fox reassured. His voice even through his semblance. Fully showing the sincerity he held, that he truly did think they of team RWBY deserved these key like weapons

"Agreed. You girls this past year have been what I personally think Hunters and Huntresses should strive to be. Honest, loyal, brave and always willing to help those who needed it. Even if they don't ask for it." Ozpin addressed. His words like the rest, full of total sincerity as he smiled with pride

Ruby, Weiss, Blake and Yang all were dumbfounded by this point. It didn't help when they saw everyone else in their group in total agreement with Ozpins statement. Which made it finally dawn on the girls. They apparently WERE different from everyone else. Special even.

Though that was in itself was somewhat scary. Scary knowing the fact, they could have a much deeper impact on life than others. That kind of dare say destiny. Though awesome was again nerve racking. But before any of them could respond back. A pair of footsteps to their left echoed. Followed by a man suddenly speaking to them.

.

.

.

"They'll come at you four out of nowhere."

.

.

.

The one speaking was a young man had a weapon in hand that made Weiss weapon looked like a freaking tooth pick compared to his. It was like roided out gun blade to be honest.

That aside an orange portal opened suddenly as eight other individuals, three men and four women. Making eight if one included the man who spoke. Popped out as the orange portal closed a second later. The new people standing alongside the first man. Each odd in their own rights. But by this point we all know this is Leon, Barret, Steve Roger, Tony Stark, Angela, Tifa, Valmet and Tifa who stood before team RWBY, and their allies. P-Body and Atlas waiting above the roof of Sid's shop now to use their portals if given orders by Leon to do so. Leon continuing to speak moments later.

"And they'll keep on coming at you as long as you four keep continuing to wield those keyblades. But..." Leon muttered, seeming a bit disappointed as he stared at team RWBY primarily "Why…why would those blades choose four kids like you?"

"Wow rude." Coco exclaimed as the others and especially the girls took offense to that little statement just now

"Seriously. Want to say that again dude?!" Yang screamed her eye's narrowing some. Thankfully she stayed put since she didn't know what this guys was gonna do if she did. That and what would happen to the others. Especially her sisters and her Blakey if she attacked without reason right now

"Leon. No need to rude about this you know?" Steve exclaimed raising a brow to the man

"Yeah. Besides weren't we gonna just test them. Not you know… insult them." Amity chimed in as she wasn't a fan of that sort of 'Teaching' mechanism as some called it

"Hey just makes our job easier if we tick them off." Tony remarked. While Amity frowned a bit at that

"Yeah but still…" Amity muttered before she felt the ever so kind hand of Angela. Who pat the top of her head with such kind warmth, that she wished THIS woman was her mother

"Don't fret sweetie. We aren't going to hurt them, or at least I'll make sure. Tifa here too and Barret you know is softie when it comes to younger folk." Angela remarked sweetly as Amity felt better since she knew these folks rather well by this point

"Hm." Barret huffed. Though couldn't help but blush just a bit when he heard Amity giggle, though that could also be because Tifa gave the younger of their group a thumbs up of reassurance from his expense

"That said. We're gonna have to beat em up a bit. So kiddo, you gotta give your all kay?" Valmet stated slightly stern when she looked to Amity. Donning on her dubbed 'big sister' tone to her surrogate younger sister

"Yes big sister!" Amity cheerfully exclaimed. Going into a more battle ready stance as she and the rest of her group turned attention back to the new comers; Leon taking over once more

"As I was saying." Leon exclaimed. Happy that his teammates were at least smart enough to have been whispering for those short few moments of banter. But kept his gaze upon team RWBY, raising his weapon right them and their group in tow "It doesn't matter. So ladies, hand over those Keyblades and this won't get rough."

"Y-You're seriously threatening us for our Keyblades?!" Blake questioned as this sudden situation came out of nowhere. Narrowing her own eyes. She got into a battle ready stance of her own, her team mates following behind along with the rest. She may have not been fond of her Keyblade, but they needed these so there was no way she or any of the girls were going to give these up without a fight "No way we're going to do that!"

"Yeah where do you get off telling us what to do!" Ruby yelled. Irked by this meanie pant, but more on the kid part of his comment. Speaking of that… "A-And who are you calling kids Mister Mc…Mc Edgy meanie pants!"

That little comment irked Leon just enough to make his left eye twitch. Now he had a reason to attack a little more harder when this fight was going to start.

"Kind of proving his point their little red." Tony remarked much to his slight amusement when Ruby grumbled some

"He does have a point there Ruby." Yatsuhashi chimed in. Ruby looking back at him with a face that screamed 'WHY, WHY BRO!?". The large young man could only sheepishly smile back as he didn't mean to rub the wound any worse

"Yeah kind of." Velvet even agreed somewhat. Ruby slumping her head a bit at the blunt words from her friends

"Okay enough making friends with them!" Glynda yelled getting Ruby at least out of her funk. Before turning her full attention back to Leon and his group "If the girls say they aren't giving you their keyblades. Then that's that. Unless you are serious about attacking us young man, then you better expect the rest of us to back them up."

Leon sighed before looking at the others who either nodded back quickly or took a moment or two to do so. But all were in agreement that the only way now was with a fight. Smirking some he faced his focus back to the Keyblade Wielders and their group.

"Well if that's how it is. Amity." Leon said. Amity herself smiling as ever since she got here, her magic; yes magic to raise abominations from goo kept around her had been changed a bit. Now she could just do it from thin air. Which was SO much more cooler

"Ahem…ABOMONATIONS, RISE!" Amity screamed out before a dozen or so purple slim things popped out from the ground like freaking zombies. All converting around Amity who smiled in pride

The group of team RWBY and their allies for a moment were stumped by the sudden action. That and realizing this fight might be a BIT harder than originally believed.

"Okay…wh- EEP!" Velvet was about to say. But was almost hit by a freaking fireball of all things, shot out by Leon who was still smirking

It wasn't even seconds later before the fight began. Nora lunging at Leon with her hammer fully out. Slamming down at the man. Only for Steve to block it with his Sheild, pushing the girl back. Then the others charged at one another.

Amity's abominations focused their sights on Velvet, Fox, Donald, Goofy and Yatsuhashi. Barret went for Coco who had sights on him to be her opponent. Valmet and Steven meanwhile went for Ozpin and Glynda. Tony decided that Nora and Ren would be his targets. Finally Tifa and Leon went against the girls of team RWBY; and HK-97. All the while Angela stayed behind next to Amity to keep the younger girl safe.

As the fight began. For Velvet, Fox, Donald and Goofy and Yatsuhashi. They were already having trouble with Amity's abominations. Not because they were hard to cut down, bash in, zap or slice up. More to the fact they were one slimy so that was gross already. Two they had no sense of pain, and three they were continually regenerating. Which was the worst of all and as for a bonus fact, but these things hit really hard.

Which for Velvet, Donald and Fox at least. They're bodies were taking more damage than usual. Valmet and Fox though still had their auras. But they felt a bit weaker too. None of them using their semblances at the moment though also, as they didn't know if those had been affect either somehow. Still the hits the five took, were starting to wear them down. Yatsuhashi and Goofy more so, since they were taking the full brunt of the attacks. While trying to cleave in half and bash away Amity's abominations with little to no luck.

The battle between Barret and Coco meanwhile was rather even. Both showing a great deal of strength with each punch or kick they landed. Neither wanting to use their weapons since they didn't want to kill one another, only to incapacitate. Still as the fight went on each hit landing dealing a bruise or so. Barret and Coco ended up in a stalemate, pressing foreheads against one another. Hands held against one another too in a show of force. Trying to overpower each other. But again their strength was mostly matched.

"Gotta say. You're a tough one miss." Barret exclaimed using all his strength to slight push Coco back

"T-Thanks. You too…hehe… why don't we call this a draw huh?" Coco mused. Doing her best to keep her cool. But her own strength starting to falter as she knew between her and this man she fought. The man had more strength in him then she did "Heh… what do say buddy?"

"Temping. Real temping…don't want to hurt a kid. But I ain't one to back down from a fight." Barret remarked. Pushing Coco back some more as he chuckled "So let's see what you got!"

"J-Joy!" Coco screamed through her teeth. Doing all she could to push back Barret, if only barely

As that fight went on. To our third battle, the one between Valmet and Steve; against Ozpin and Glynda. The fight was on more equal footing as each pairs were quite experiences in combat. Be it ranged or in this case hand-to-hand. Plus maybe a weapon or two.

"Got to say lady. You're good!" Valmet remarked. Enjoying this little fight as she'd pulled her knife out now when she saw Glynda had some sort of full body forcefield around her. So she was confident enough she wouldn't hurt the woman. Swinging her knife as Glynda dodged three swipes in quick succession "Military or…?"

"Self-trained believe it or not!" Glynda answered. Throwing one jab, then two at Valmet who barely dodged each swipe. She would have used her semblance at this point. But for some strange reason she couldn't. Still she needed to focus on this woman before her, not her lack of semblance "What about you?"

"Military!" Valmet answered as she dodged a right hook from Glynda. Before landing two solid gut punches, followed by a knee to the face. Pushing Glynda back on her feet with a slightly bloody nose

"W-What the… my aura is weaker too." Glynda muttered. But her train of thought was interrupted when she had to start dodging Valmet's strikes again. She looked over to see Ozpin having a somewhat equal footing match with the shield carrier. She could only hope he was having less of an issue then she as currently

Speaking of. When it came to the fight between Ozpin and Steve. Both men hadn't said a word between one another. Instead letting their fists and skills speak for each.

Swipe after swipe, kick after painful kick, dodge followed by another dodge; and all forms of combat. Both defensive and offensive were utilized. Steven using his shield while Ozpin used his surprisingly sturdy cane.

Again. It was battle of silence and combat between two men who'd seen much in their life's. Ozpin in his own ways, Steven in other ways. Both not seeming to want to hurt one another. But to more covey a message if they were friend, foe or not sure at the moment.

Still as this battle between the two war veteran's continued. Stevens friend Tony was MUCH more talkative when it came to his fight against both Nora and Ren. Nora at the moment swinging her hammer in a fast manner. Each swing either blocked or dodged by Tony.

"'Just stay still tin can!" Nora screamed. Having already been irritated beforehand from the events that lead them into this town. Now she was letting her anger get to her, which Tony was easily taking advantage of

"Nah not my style. Oh but I gotta ask…" Tony began to say as he kept on dodging each swipe Nora threw a him. Before stopping for a moment with his quips, barley avoiding an attack from behind, by Ren as both her and Nora crashed into each. Tony chuckled as both teens tried get untangled "Anyways was gonna ask. But do you have a long lost blonde brother by the name of Thor at all. Cause you're giving me ginger Thor vibes here."

"UGH. Will you shut up!" Nora yelled. She and Ren having gotten untangled just moments ago, Ren already back on his feet as he helped Nora up

"Aw what's the matter. Ginger snap gonna thrown a tantrum?" Tony teased. In the most condescending tone he could muster up, though for him that was easy. Besides he could tell this girl was a short tempered one when she got frustrated. All according to plan as he notice Nora narrow her eyes

"T-Tantrum. I'll show you TANTRUM!" Nora screamed. Before charging Tony who seemed WAY too calm. Something Ren took quick notice of

"Wait Nora!" Ren warned. Though it a little too late as Nora was already inches away from Tony. Who smirked under his helmet as his plan had worked just as planned

Without much hesitation he waited until she swung her hammer straight down at him. Pivoting his right ankle to avoid the attack. Nora's hammer smashing into the ground and made a few cracks in it. But as she did this, Tony was able to land a solid strike to the back of her neck. With enough force thanks to his suit to bypass whatever shielding she had and knock her out as the girl seconds later fell to the ground. Out cold and given at the same time the much needed rest from the craziness of today.

"Take a nap kiddo. Looks like you needed one." Tony muttered sighing some as he didn't want to hurt the kids. But this was probably the quickest way to get it over with. Looking to Ren who seemed rather ticked off, Tony hoped maybe he could talk the boy down "She's fine just to say. Only taking a quick little nap. So why don't you give up and you won't end u-"

"RRAAHH!" Ren in a moment of anger at seeing his best friend and the girl he cared dearly about hurt. Lunged right at Tony, who like before sighed

It wasn't even seconds later when Ren landed his blades against Tony's armor. Which took the hits easily. Before Ren felt a loss of air in his lungs when Tony landed a solid gut punch. Followed by a grab to the face. Before he used as much non-lethal force and slammed the young man into the ground. Creating a small crater as Ren by the looks of it was out cold now too.

"Man. Why are kids always the crazy ones?" Tony muttered to himself once more. Taking a moments rest as he'd done his part for the time being

Speaking of the fights going on around. The last one was the most tense of them all as it was of course the fight with Team RWBY and HK-97, against Leon and Tifa. So far the battle was on even footing as for the girls and their robotic guardian. Leon and Tifa were anything but weak.

"Girls, HK we need to- WILL YOU BACK OFF!" Yang had started to say. Only to be cut off yet again as she dodged a ground fracturing punch from Tifa. Before using her keyblade to block the woman's kicks "Just stop!

Tifa though could only smirk a little. It had been a while since she was in a fight-fight with a person instead of a heartless. That and she was simply tiring out the girl before landing the final KO. Though from behind Blake and leaped in the air. Keyblade raised over her head about to slam it straight down at Tifa.

"Ahhh!" Blake screamed in a war cry. The fight so far having pumped her full of adrenaline by this point

Though Tifa already had noticed her. But instead of countering the incoming attack. She waited until a few seconds later. Then blocked Yangs next attack, followed by a quick kick to the side of the girls leg.

Yang growled a bit in pain. But just as that happened. Tifa moved to the side as Blakes attack missed her barley. Yang by instance seeing Blakes attack was about to make contact with her. Used her Keyblade to block it. Though the couple crashed into one another. Both groaning a bit in pain as Tifa walked closer to them.

"Have to say. You two are good, but I gotta finish this. Sorry nothing personal." Tifa exclaimed. Her knuckles cracking followed by swinging her right fist at the two to Knock them out. Only a metallic hand caught it seconds before contact "Huh?"

The one who'd caught it. Had been HK-97 who using his own strength to push Tifa back on her a bit. Before dropping his at this point ruined blaster. Then getting into a fighting stance of his own, Tifa following in suit seeing a new challenger.

"Regretful Apology: Forgive me Mistresses. I know you two can fight. But please take a moment to rest, then help Mistress Weiss and Mistress Ruby. This woman will be my opponent." HK-97 stated, calm as ever. Blake and Yang were about to argue. Before they saw to the side; Ruby and Weiss having some trouble with Leon. They knew their friend had a point

"We will. Thank you HK, just stay safe for us." Yang replied kindly, glad that HK-97 intervened when he did

"Amused Remark: Why of course Mistress Yang. If you tell me to be safe, then safe I shall be." HK-97 proudly boasted. As he turned hie full attention to Tifa "Stern Statement: Well now young lady. I am your opponent. Have at thee!

Without a second more. HK-97 and Tifa charged at one another. Displaying their full might in close combat. Tifa thoroughly surprised that HK-97 was so nimble and trained well in the art of combat. All the while Blake and Yang took a moments rest. Before they would help Ruby and Weiss.

Speaking of the final other half of this fight. Ruby and Weiss were doing the best they could to fight back against the more raw brute strength Leon possessed. Didn't help when that his blade added even more weight to it.

"Gah!" Ruby screamed being pushed back from another hard strike Leon landed on her. Her Keyblade barely able to force back the man as she skidded a little on her feet. Weiss moving behind her and stopping her before she fell on her backside "T-Thanks sweetie."

"Anytime my dear." Weiss kindly replied. Before she and Ruby focused back at Leon. Who was smiling just a little

"You two make quite the team don't ya. I'm going to ask one last time. Hand over the Keyblades and this won't get messy." Leon stated. Clam if not stern in his demand

"And we said no. So just leave us alone." Ruby argued as she and Weiss back into their combat ready stances

"Well I did give you-" Leon began to say. Only to block to swipes from his left by Blake and Yang

Both girls landing on their feet as Leon skid to the side a bit from the force of the duel hit alone. Ruby and Weiss moving next to their sisters in arms. Keyblades ready too.

"Nice timing you two. Couldn't have helped sooner?" Weiss mused. Joking for once despite the situation they were in

"Oh is that a joke sister. Dear dust Blake, Ruby I think we finally broke through our little Weiss ice shell." Yang remarked as Weiss huffed for a moment, while Blake chuckled and Ruby giggled

"Heh. Funny as that is. We should focus back on the guy before us." Blake suggested and the others agreed. All their focus back on Leon who'd seem to have waited for them to stop talking amongst one another. Blake smirked in slightly mocking manner "Well and they say chivalry is dead."

"Hm. Believe it or not I don't have anything personal against you girls. But since you won't let go of those Keyblades. I'll have use brute force. So get ready ladies, I'm not holding back anymore." Leon exclaimed smugly a little which irked the girls

"How nice of you. Hm… girls let's do what we did when we first got out Keyblades. Sound good right?" Ruby suggested. Smirking herself as the girls did so too. Leon simply raised an eyebrow more curious then anything. That and he notice most of his teammates were just finishing up their fights, and would call for help with them if needed

Seconds later team RWBY began to activate their semblances. Only much to their shock, they quickly realized that they weren't working. Oddly they could still feel their semblances. But they just weren't activating for some reason.

"W-What's going on?" Ruby questioned in a slight panic and that was when Leon took his chance to finish this fight

Without a seconds notice he charged at the girls. Yang the first to be knocked out with a elbow below the chin. Before Leon grabbed Blake by the hair with his left hand, then brought her face right against his knee. Blake fell face first out cold once he let go of her.

Weiss and Ruby didn't even get a second to counter attack. As Leon swung his blade. Forcing Ruby and Weiss back as they blocked it. Weiss recovering quicker as she charged and swung at him. But Leon dodged the attack and moved behind her. Landing a solid hit to the back of her head with the end of his sword. Knocking her out a second later as she fell to the ground out cold.

Ruby was the last one by this point. The red themed girl glaring at Leon, who sighed as he cracked his neck. It didn't help Ruby's confidence at how calm the man was. That and seeing that her wife, sister, sister in law and friends had been beaten too as she saw everyone else had been knocked out too. While Leon's own crew turned their focus to Ruby who was doing her best to keep herself calm.

"Sorry about being so rough there. But you left me no choice kid. So now are you FINALLY going to give up your Keyblade or not?" Leon remarked and readied his sword. While some of the others of Leon's group moved a bit closer to make sure Ruby couldn't escape

"I…I…" Ruby began to say. Only she stopped when she felt a slight anger start to grow. Gripping the handle of her weapon. She scowled and leaped right at Leon with full intent to beat the living day lights out of him "NEVER!"

It was like a river flowing the next few seconds. As Leon blocked the attack as it made contact. Pushing Ruby's Keyblade away before using his left fist and landing a solid gut punch into Ruby's stomach. The result of such a sudden attack caused Ruby to fall on her knees. Then caused her to drop her Keyblade, before she fell onto her back. Ruby letting out a small whine as she started to feel herself fade out. Then she saw Leon looking down at her. Stern, yet regretful as he sighed before lifting his shoe over her face.

"Sorry kid. Nothing personal." Leon simply stated before kicking Ruby in the face hard and knocking her out. Once that was done and over with, Leon sighed as the others re-grouped with him

"That was a little… much right there. You know that right?" Amity chastised. Just a bit as she wasn't too fond of how brutal Leon had been with the four Keyblade wielders

"Maybe he was Amity. But you have to remember that being gentle with a possible hostile could get you killed. Understood?" Valmet sternly. If not with a hint of care exclaimed as she smiled half way, patting the top of the younger girls head

"I know…still." Amity whispered. As she did understand that. But that didn't mean she liked it one bit. Heck she felt bad for causing slight harm to those she'd been fighting

"Either way. We're good now. Damn, that bucket of bolts could land a hit." Tifa stated. Cracking her neck some as she had been proven quite wrong when she thought HK-97 would be an easy opponent

"Well that's what you get for underestimating the bot." Barret teased. A rare moment of having one up on his good friend. Who herself gave the man a stink eye. Though that only got a laugh out of the man. But he stopped a second later as he looked around to see all the out cold newcomers "So guess we'll need to get em up to the hotel then."

"That we will. P-Body, Atlas." Steven said as he and the others looked up on the rooftop of Sid's shop where the two bots had been told to stay during all this

"Brrzz, verrr?" P-Body said first as she poked her head out from the side of the rooftop

"Gazzke?" Atlas said next. Doing the same as P-Body, though had to poke out a bit further considering his body shape was shorter than his friends

"Can you two head back to hotel. Tell the others that well probably need Doctor Reid to help Angela here when she gets back to patch these folks up." Steven asked kindly

"Also tell Reid that I expect him to be ready for another set of vaccine checkups when I get back there too. The man needs them and were about done with the one's that he DOES need for sure." Angela added in kindly too

Both bots took a moment before just giving them and the others a nod. Then they popped back from the roof before the sounds of portals being shot out could be slightly heard. Once that was done with, Tony then clapped his hands loudly as they clanged against each other. All eyes on him now.

"Well anyways. No time like the present then. Let's get these people up and to our home away from home. That and so little Amity here can make sure if her little Lutz is okay. I'm sures she back by now from the park." Tony teased. Amity blushing all of sudden as she glared at Tony who laughed

"S-Shut up. Why do you keep doing that!?" Amity scolded. But her embarrassment made it seem so much cuter then anything

"Right like it's no obvious kiddo." Tony remarked. Before he felt Angela lightly slap the left side of his helmet

"Enough. Amity is having enough issues at her age. Don't need to make anymore." Angela scolded. Tony shrugging as the woman sighed at the man child hero's quirkiness at times. But she smiled sweetly when she turned her attention to Amity "Amity sweetie. Are you okay to help us get these folks to the hotel. No dizziness so far?"

"No. A little weakness in the legs, but I'm good. Honest." Amity answered. As she truly was feeling good as can be since her magic changed when arriving in this place "Please let me help."

"None of us were doubting you. Just want to make sure is all, we are the adults after all." Steven reassured. Feeling some pride in the girl as she had spirit that was for sure

"Some more than others." Barret stated all eyes on Tony again. Who himself just shrugged it off as just a small jab. Before the man notice Leon still staring down at Ruby, Weiss, Blake and Yang "You okay Leon?"

"Yeah. Just… I'm wondering why the Keyblades choose them. To be honest and don't want to keep being such a pessimist. But our odds don't seem that great if these are our hero's." Leon explained. Bluntly too as if these girls were their supposed saviors, it wasn't looking well so far as he could tell

"Jeez lighten up Lenny. Sure they're a little green, but hey they're our chosen hero's like it or not. So might as well given em a chance." Tony remarked. Patting Leon's shoulder in a slightly patronizing manner much to the man's slight annoyance

"Yeah I guess so. Still, Amity I know Angela asked. But you sure you're good still helping us move these folks to the hotel?" Leon asked. Kinder this time and even smiling just a bit

"Heh. Yeah I am." Amity simply answered. Then started ordering her abominations to begin moving the out cold newcomers back to HQ

The others followed in suit, all taking one or two of the newcomers up into their arms. Before making their way off to this hotel of theirs. Though unlike most Leon still couldn't help but feel a bit.. uneasy about these four. For the time being however. He would simply have to wait and see.

Hopefully, these girls would prove him wrong.

---

Ruby could feel the bed underneath her. Comfy and such, her eyes starting to open up slowly as her sight was starting to come back too. Slowly she could see she was inside someone's room, a green colored room, that and she could see someone above her. It was man of most likely in his early thirties at least.

"Oh you're up, good I was hoping you would awaken soon." The man said with hint of an accent to him that wasn't too far off of what she heard when her wife or any of her other in-laws spoke at times

"W-What…" Ruby tried to ask. But her mind still coming too as she felt a bit of a soreness around her stomach "Ugh… my stomach."

"Ahem. Yes you came from quite the brawl. Angela was quite furious with Leon once she and I were alone. Ah never mind that, all I want you to do is relax young miss." The man exclaimed as Ruby finally got a better look at the man as her vision had cleared up from her initial awakening

The man was peach skinned with blue eyes, a short haircut and a beard in black. His attire was similar to what her father in law wore when he was around for like a day or two. Though with differences. Unlike the white Jacques attire primarily sported. This man's attire was mainly black with the coat he wore, mixed with greys, a bit of red and some more black. With his undershirt the only white seen on him. She also notice he had a pistol holstered on his right as she barley saw the holster. Oddly though the man also looked a bit paler than most, almost like he nearly dead. Odd.

Still as the man checked over Ruby making sure she was at least fit enough to be moving now. The door suddenly opened as three more individuals appeared in now that Ruby noticed, nicely green colored room. Still Ruby took notice of the three new individuals seeing it was a man, a woman who were most likely married and finally a big old adorable dog.

The big old doggy that Ruby just wanted to pet was a large white fur dog of some breed she'd never seen. Happily wagging his tail as around his neck as a collar with the tag on it, the name of the dog 'Bond'. Which gave Ruby a good idea this dog was a boy. Still again she found this puppy super adorable and she wondered if she could set up a play date if ever with her three other pups. Hopefully one could hope that one day that could be.

But she focused back on the man and woman, who now she knew were married thanks to the two wedding rings on their fingers. That and she could tell with how at ease they were standing next to each other as close as only couples could. At least what she saw in movies and her own experiences with her wife.

The man had peach skin had blue eyes, a clean shaved face and short dirty blonde hair. His attire was that of a plain forest green suit with a white undershirt and a red tie. He wore a pair of brown shoes, a darken tanned hat and a pair of black gloves on his hands. Oddly his eyes seemed a little narrowed from what Ruby could tell, like he was studying her in silence.

Then there was the woman who had a light olive skin completion. Along with red eyes, long black hair tied in a bun and with two long bangs hanging downwards. She wore a pink headband over her head, a pink winter coat, a pair of tanned boots and black stockings. This woman though also seemed to be study Ruby to her notice. But looked much kinder as she did and worried even as she addressed the man looking over her.

"Oh sorry Doctor Ried. We just wanted to see if the young lady in here was okay, the others we've been talking with have been getting worried." The woman said kindly

"Ah Yor, Loid and even Bond. No worries as you can see young…" The man or Doctor Reid said as he looked down at Ruby. Ruby realizing he was asking for her name without seeming rude about it

"Oh ah… Ruby. Ruby Schnee." Ruby answered as she decided she might as well get use to using her new last name. That and it made her feeling giddy saying it

"Ah so you and the other one really are… ahem never mind. Still as you can see Miss Schnee is just fine." Doctor Reid exclaimed

"Um can you just call me Ruby Doctor. Just Ruby, I'm not that stuffy with names. Hehe." Ruby asked kindly as she found the doctor a kind man to know. The she focused on the other three "And you two. Your names are Loid and Yor, and your dog name is Bonds right?"

"That it is Ruby. I'm Loid Forger, this is my wife Yor Forger and this is our dog Bond. We have a daughter too named Anya. But she's taking a nap with some of the other kids that live here. So you will or more likely she will meet you later." Loid introduced then explained as his narrow gaze became more relaxed within a second

"Pleasure to meet you." Yor said first with a smile and bow

"Arf!" Bonds simply barked

"And nice to meet you all too." Ruby answered back. Before she realized some of the wording used being that of 'Others' Then it came back to her "W-Wait what about my family are they-"

"They're all fine. Me and my friend Angela made sure of that. You were the only one who hadn't awoken." Doctor Reid answered. Before he perked up for a moment, then smiled some "Speaking of them…"

Just then Ruby noticed Loid and Yor pulling Bond back. Move inside the room and to the right. Before suddenly three sounds of running footsteps echoed. Then finally in a blur she saw Weiss, Blake and Yang come in. All running up and hugging Ruby like they hadn't seen her in years.

"Ruby you're okay!" Blake first said. Happy as can be to see her sister in law was okay and Ruby swore for just a moment she heard a cat purr

"Seriously I got super worried that my baby sis was hurt!" Yang stated next as Ruby heard Yang's voice crack just a bit and it warmed her heart at how concerned Yang had been for her. She really was an amazing big sister

"Don't ever make us worry so much you dolt, you had us, ME worried beyond belief!" Weiss yelled as she sniffled some and Ruby felt bad having made her wife worry so much. Even if it had been out of her control "Stupid dolt… making your wife worry like this."

"Heh, sorry girls. I'll be more careful. Promise." Ruby muttered as she did her best to hug back. Only for the moment to be cut off when the sounds of a scroll taking a picture echoed

Everyone then looked to the source of the noise. Ruby seeing that it had been Coco with her scroll out, though with her were a few others. That being only Glynda, Ozpin, Donald, Goofy, that guy with the shield, the pointed ear girl and the woman with the small metal angel wings.

Still everyone looked at Coco, who had just got done saving the picture and noticed the stares herself. All of them wondering why she did that even and the girl couldn't help but be a bit embarrassed as she tried to explain.

"Sorry. But that was just TOO adorable to not take a pic." Coco apologized. Sheepishly at that as she put her scroll away "I mean come on can you not call this moment cute?"

"Well I will agree. It was cute. Still since we're officially meeting young lady. I'm Angela and I see you've meet my colleague Jonathan Reid. Speaking of how is Ruby looking?" Angela said. Before deciding to ask Ried if he'd found anything wrong with Ruby

"As fine as she can be Angela. Though her stomach is a bit bruised and her face you already patched up. Remember." Doctor Reid replied back as he got up from his knees and moved over to where the others were

"Oh right yes. Thank you, after these past few days I guess I haven't been sleeping as well." Angela stated as she realized she may need to fix her sleep schedule soon. Then she focused back on Ruby who now has Weiss, Blake and Yang sitting next to her "Anyways the other two here are Amity and Steven."

"Um hi." Amity greeted with a small smile and wave

"Ruby nice to meet you." Steven greeted next with a nod and smile of his own

"And that's everyone here. But before we go any further. I would like to apologize on behalf of some of the others you met. Especially Leon. He was a little too violent with you four especially." Angela stated as she gave the girls a quick bow

"She laid it on him though. Was real funny to watch. Hahaha!" Donald added in. With a smirk as Yang and Blake at least chuckled some from seeing that a while ago

"Leon. That's the guy with the big sword right. The jerk who punched me the stomach and kicked me in the face?" Ruby questioned as the girls kept an eye on her as they and Ruby in toll got back on their feet

"Yep. That be him Ruby and I'm just glad you're all okay. Donald too." Goofy answered as Donald nodded in agreement. The girls giving their friends a smile back before Glynda took over

"Agree, Ozpin and I are happy to see you all okay also. Though what we've been told by some others here. But Leon was simply testing us all. A bit much for a test though." Glynda answered. Rubbing her left side a little from her fight with Valmet

"Yeah I mean Leon is kind of like a brother to me in way. But the guy can be a bit tense. Though he is nicer then he seems once you get to know him." Amity stated. As she'd dealt with many like Leon beforehand, but the man beat most of them in the unnecessary tenseness category

" I have to apologize too. I didn't notice how much he went overboard with you four and I'd have stopped him if I'd noticed sooner." Steven apologize. Feeling a bit guilty as he could only guess that it was a bit of a moral killer to be taken down by one guy so brutally and so easily at that

"It's fine dude. Sheesh you apologize too much and we've barely know you for two hours." Yang teased as Steven flustered a bit and rubbed the back of his head

"Arf!" Bond barked. Yang at least chuckling as she found the dog adorable already

"Hehe. See Steve, Bond agrees." Yang teased some more as Steve was truly such an easy target

"Ah right, sorry. I mean ah…you gals get what I mean." Steven tried to apologize yet again. But wasn't use to being teased so easily by anyone aside from Tony mostly. Let alone Yang, Weiss and Blake who'd take a few moments to tease him earlier just for fun. That and maybe a bit of pay back for being part of their groups defeat

"Alright ladies. Enough teasing Steven here. Besides there are more important manners that need to be addressed. Isn't that right Leon." Ozpin said loudly and not even looking at the door behind them one more pair of footsteps echoed. Before low and behold Leon came in

But following by a young brunette woman, a teen ninja for her guess and most importantly. Much to hers, Weiss, Blake and Yangs shock. It was the three other people aside from Goofy and Donald. That had appeared in their dream so long ago.

Which was uncanny in many was seeing them in real life opposed to just stain glass images. Everyone else just decided to stay quite as even they didn't know how significant those three were to team RWBY. They could see it was some significates at least.

"How'd you know Ozpin?" Leon asked curious more than anything as the girls next to him giggled

"Simple. Aerith and Yuffie told me you'd try doing an dramatic entrance. I just assumed you'd come in now. Thank you for proving me correct." Ozpin explained amused as Aerith and Yuffie gave him a thumbs up on such a good guess there. He then looked back to the girls who were wide eyed for some reason "Girls are you-"

It wasn't second later that at least Ruby even without her semblance. Ran quickly up to the three strangers from the dream. Giddy if anything as she found this a bit scary, but cool too. Like REALLY cool. Kind of chosen one stuff cool. Even if that alone was scary enough for the fifteen year old.

"Oh my gosh. Oh my gosh it's you all. Like this is really, really cool. But scary, but cool. I mean the fact that you're all real opens up a can of worms. I mean does that mean like my imaginary friend from years ago exist somewhere and does that also mean-" Ruby started to say. Going off into a sudden moment of questioning what she could believe in when it came to the idea of perceived realties. Only for the Leopard masked man to cover her mouth with just two fingers

"Calm yourself young one. You're speaking in riddles and we're confused on how you know of us?" Leopard Mask man exclaimed before the hooded woman cut in

"That and it's quite rude to not introduce yourself. To not just us, but Yuffie and Aerith here." Hooded Woman chimed in. As she pointed to Yuffie and Aerith much to Ruby's embarrassment at how rude she just was

"Ah you're right miss. I am SO sorry!" Ruby exclaimed before looking to Aerith and Yuffie "I'm really super-duper sorry there. I'm Ruby and you two are Aerith, and Yuffie?"

"Yeppers and no worries Ruby. From what your friends told us. Mister Grumpy Mc-Angsty here was a bit of brute in your fight. For shame Mister broody pants." Yuffie replied smugly a bit. As she patted Leon's right shoulder in a mocking manner

"Hehe. Yeah, shame on Mister Broody pants here!" Coco added in while Leon resisted the urge to groan from realizing this was still real life and not some horrible dream "Broody Pants, Broody Pants!"

"Broody Pants, Broody Pants!" Yang cheered joining in as she found this rather amusing

"Why me…" Leon muttered. Wondering what God or God's he angered to be stuck in this hell of his

"Alright enough. Let act our age please." Angela scolded a little. Coco and Yang at least quickly complying as Angela gave off a very familiar vibe Glynda had, and neither wanted to test their luck

"Anyways it's fine with me too Ruby. Still these three are Ikail, Dante and Guin. They've only arrived here recently too." Aerith explained. As by this point, Weiss, Blake and Yang moved next up next to Ruby in their own form of shock seeing the other three from their dream

"They did?" Blake asked for her and the girls. Rubbing her eyes a bit finding it uncanny also that these other three were real

"Yes sir-e they are Blake. Gwarsh we were lucky Aerith and Yuffie found them. Since they seemed confused from what I'm understanding." Goofy answered

"And guess what. They've been looking for you girls too. Like me and Goofy were when we first meet!" Donald added in as that was a surprise to the girls

"Us, why?" Weiss questioned. Though had a good idea why exactly that was. Even if she still didn't like the fact apparently she and the girls were 'different' compared to the rest of their just as capable family

"That's what we all have been wanting to know. Lady Aerith here said she, Yuffie and Leon here would explain. That said we'd all like some answers." Dante cut in before he looked to team RWBY "And I know Lady Aerith already introduced us. But I'm Dante, nice to meet you four."

"Hehe. Same here Dante, nice to meet you too. Same with you Ikail, Guin." Ruby replied for her and the girls, who nodded in agreement. Then she and the rest looked to Aerith, Yuffie and Leon "So…"

"Alright. Might as well get it over with." Leon exclaimed. Letting a sigh before he cleared his throat since this was going to be quite the explanation "To start off. You girls probably have noticed you're not the only ones who live here. Most of us are refugees from other worlds, and trust me on this. We do have more but they're out currently. Exploring other accessible parts of the town. That aside all of us are stuck here because of-"

"The Heartless." Team RWBY said in a sudden synchronized moment as Leon was surprised they knew the name already

"Yes… that's them. So then you also saw what they did to your world I assume. If so, then you also have come to realize that those blades of yours. The Keyblades are a big part of all of this." Leon exclaimed. While the girls summoned their keyblades without realizing and looked at them. They even heard a small awe from a few the others here "You're probably wondering why that is. Aren't ya?"

"Well yeah dude. These things cool I'll admit. But if they're the reason for all of this, then why?" Yang responded back a little uneasy at the fact her new weapon was a big part of whatever was going on

"Seriously. The girls and I are just…normal." Blake added in before she continued as Glynda was at least about to argue "AND we know that apparently in our world we weren't seen as that. But I personally can't see what's special about us."

"Same…no offense. But even if we were picked for this, what in the world are we supposed to do with these keyblades?" Ruby stated as she was feeling more confused now than before

"Simple Ruby. You and the girls are the keys. The keys to fixing all of the damage the heartless have committed already. What you have are the only weapons that can truly defeat the heartless. Not to add any stress, but you four are our only hope." Aerith explained now. But gave them four sympathetic glance as she could tell this wasn't something they had wanted and she couldn't blame them for feeling such a way

"No pressure…" Weiss muttered rubbing her eyes for a moment. Before she put on a calmer face "So. Just to so I can make sure we understand. The heartless are taking worlds for whatever reason, the people in this town are refugees from those taken worlds, our Keyblades are the only weapons that can permanently beat the heartless. Oh and not to forget. But me and the girls here are literally your only hope or all is lost. D-Did I get that right?"

"Yeah…girl you need to chill. No pun intended cause…never mind. But yeah. That's pretty much it, sorry. For realsies." Yuffie said. Though she was feeling quite sorry for the girls since she could see maybe this was bit much for them to accept fully for the moment "Look we can see this is…a lot. But that's just how it is."

"To be more blunt. Get over it, you're stuck with this so might as well get used to it." Leon rudely stated. Though that did earn a few glares. Mostly from Coco, Glynda, Ozpin, Steven, Yor and Amity

"Rude much. You get your thrills being a dick?" Coco scolded as she swore this guy just like being rude and mean

"Seriously. Does nice even come into your vocabulary Leon?" Amity also scolded but Loid decided to play devil's advocate

"Ladies he does have a point. Rude I'll admit myself and maybe could have some more tac. But he does bring up a good point." Loid stated as Leon gave him a quick thank you nod. Before Loid looked to the girls "Leon is right on one thing. Weather you wanted to or not. You four are our only hope to getting back home. But at least you won't be alone."

Team RWBY looked to one another. Only feeling a little better, then again it wasn't every day you learned the hopes of many strangers and worlds already attacked; and yet to be attacked. Hitch on your shoulders and if you failed it was game over for everyone. Heck the girls only worry not even a few hours ago was when the next test was coming up, studying, what to do for the weekend. Now they were thrusted into being literal Chosen Ones. So not exactly what one would call a usual occurrence in a teens life.

"Loid's right and we'll be with you all the way girls!" Donald proclaimed proudly as he gave team RWBY a thumbs

"That's right. Not to mention your Pokemon and summons will be too!" Goofy added in, also giving the four teens a thumbs

The girls quickly checked and were relieved when they felt their summon gems, and Pokeballs were still with them. They already were starting to feel a bit better now realizing that Loid was right, they weren't going to be alone. Though they quickly would see they were gonna have more back up for now on too. As Ikail coughed getting their attention as she smiled.

"And just to say girls. Me and the boys here will be coming along too." Ikail stated as she pointed to herself, Dante and Guin

"You sure. I know you said it was fine, but…" Donald asked. As the gesture was appreciated, but he and Goofy; with extension to the girls didn't want to force them if they were having seconds thoughts on this

"We are. They'll need the help and besides. I don't know for these two. But I feel a need to join. Like I was supposed to." Guin stated crossing his arms and looked to the girls. Giving them a nod that he was with them all the way "I know we've just met. But you count on me."

"I as well. Like Guin I feel the need to join you four and to fight this darkness. You have my oath I will be by you side until the end." Dante proudly said. A small smiled donned his face as he gave the girls a quick salute

"And these two are WAY too fun to not be around. So of course I'm coming. Though also the whole save the universe thing too is pretty enticing. So don't worry gals, big sister Ikail has your back!" Ikail cheered. Utter glee as she gave the girls a double thumbs up and a reassuring smile

"Well…" Ruby started to say. Looking to Weiss, Blake and Yang. Seeing if they were on board here. Each one took a moment before smiling which was a good answer for her. Looking back to the other three from their dream. She finally smiled too "Well since your willing to join us. Welcome to our little family. Team RWBY!"

"Actually that said. You may want to work on the team name since you have nine people now in your group." Ozpin cut in. Smirking a bit amused as he watch Ruby realizing that fact "Then you have to include your summons and Pokemon too I guess."

"Oh right. Ah…ah, huh maybe we can…hm." Ruby muttered as she began to think over names

"Well. I can already tell this is going to be fun." Blake quipped. Before laughing a little, followed by Yang; then Weiss and finally Ruby

All in all in this moment. It seemed things had fixed themselves and questions had been answered. For the most part. At least now too it was peaceful enough. The laughter of team RWBY all that could heard, but no one stopped them since they needed it considering the task ahead. But the moment was cut short.

Why, because suddenly from the back of the room. A new form of heartless appeared. This one a somewhat bigger one. With a purple like body, an odd symbol on its chest, sharp claws, shoes of sorts and a metal helmet that made it look like a Knight. The clanking sound that it emitted caught everyone of guard as it lunged at the girls of team RWBY. Only for Yor from out of nowhere to step in front of the girls. Before kicking the Knight in the face. So hard that it flung into the wall and cracked it a little. It's body turning to black smoke moments later.

"Nice kick Yor." Yuffie muttered as she and everyone else in this place so far had never seen the woman attack. The fact her kick was so powerful was something that was for sure

"OH ah…y-yeah. Yoga classes and stuff. M-My brother also wanted me to take s-self-defense. That's it!" Yor quickly tried to explain as most of the others aside from Loid, Anya and even the dog Bond who seemed use to this didn't believe her

-"Seriously?"- Most of the occupants in the room thought as that was not likely considering she seemed pretty proficient with her kick just now

But before anyone could question her. Suddenly more of the Knights and some Shades started to appear. Team RWBY and their new teammates were about to attack. Before Leon stepped in front of them, weapon out as he and the rest who were combat capable faced the incoming heartless.

"No. You and your friend need to get out now. Go through the back, once down find the Alpha heartless. That's the only reasons these pest would be here right now. So go." Leon ordered as the group seemed hesitant. Leon sighed as he slashed one of the Shades that got too close "I said GO!"

Without missing a beat. Team RWBY and their new allies bolted out the door and towards what they assumed would be the back exit of the Hotel. They broke through the door of another room, this one blue while also hearing the sounds of battle from the green room and another room a bit aways. Followed by breaking through the window of the blue room and then landing right into what was assumed also to be the back alley.

Then before them appeared a good few dozen heartless in the Shade and new Knight variations. Blocking the way the group needed to go to get to where ever this Alpha was at. Team RWBY summoned their Keyblade, Ikail taking out her light saber as it glowed it's angelic blue hue, Dante his bone made scythe, Guin his large two-handed sword, Donald his staff and finally Goofy his Shield.

Without saying a word they all charged at the group of heartless. Ready for this fight and whatever other fights they would be encountering. All that could be heard then was the sounds of battle.

---

Warm, comfy and oddly filled with the scent of fresh spring water.

That was what Jaune felt and smelled as he began to stir awake. Slowly, his head killing him. That and his back which felt like he'd just gotten out of a fight with a Boarbatusk and won… barely. Still Jaune slowly sat up hearing a small crack or two as he straightened out his back. Then he rubbed his eyes. Clearing up much better now.

What he saw as his new surroundings. Was that he was inside of a room that was lite up just enough so it didn't seem TOO dark. He turned his head back to see a window and from a distance he also saw a waterfall and what appeared to be the dusk sky. It was rather pretty if he was being honest. Then he looked back ahead before seeing something that made him go wide eyed.

What he saw ahead was another bed, an elegant and well-crafted bed. The drapes were red velvet but more importantly. He saw laid peacefully on the bed was his dear Pyrrha, covered by some sort of clear-ish field. He quickly got to his feet ignoring the pain that suddenly came. Before running towards Pyrrha. Tripping over as he was inches away from her. But got up just as quickly as he fell, stopping at where Pyrrha was at. Hands on the field that shielded her for whatever reason.

"Pyrrha. Pyrrha!" Jaune yelled in a panic as he had no idea how to get his fiancée out of whatever this was. Though it also hit him that the rest of his friends weren't here either "Crap. Where's everyone else. Oh no…no, oh crap!"

Though as Jaune began to panic. He heard the door open and before he could do anything, a green skinned woman in dark robes and with a horned head piece came in. As this woman spotted him she smiled. Though Jaune did feel a bit uneasy mostly because of her eyes. They were all yellow with black slits. Like a demon of sorts.

"Well now. Look who's awake, I'm glad you're feeling better. It was bit of a hit and miss I'll admit. But I do say I am a good doctor after all. Oh pardon my manners. I am the ruler of this castle and you may call me Maleficent. Pleasure." Maleficent sweetly introduced doing a quick curtsy for Jaune

"I ah…" Jaune started to say. But stopped as he was surprised by how sweet Maleficent seemed despite her more darker appearance. Great now he was feeling like a jerk for simply assuming she was bad news. Besides from what he gathered right now. It seemed that she was the reason he and Pyrrha he also assumed, were alive. So clearing his throat he decided to trust the woman some "Jaune. Jaune Ark miss and I have to admit you're much sweeter than ah… you look. No offense."

"None taken sweet boy. I'll admit I don't look the part of a sweet woman, but I am one. It's simply just…well this place doesn't take kindly to those who look sweet. So I've taken the appearance of a fierce witch if only to keep this home of mine safe. It's sad really. But I hope I didn't scare you at all." Malefice explained sniffling a little. Now Jaune felt like a total jerk for assuming so quickly

"Nah you didn't. I'm just really glad you save me and my fiancée here." Jaune stated feeling much easier around Maleficent now

"Oh she's to be your wife. How cute. Still I do assume you're curious about the shield?" Maleficent questioned. Jaune giving her an affirmative nod as the woman chuckled "Hehe. Thought so, well don't worry. Your love was much more injured then you were when I and some fellows who live here for the time being. Found you. This shield is to keep your bride to be alive. Until she awakes from sadly the coma she's in. I am truly sorry Jaune. I wish we could have found a way to wake her up, but at last. Neither I or my fellows could. Can you ever forgive me…"

"Hey now. No need to get upset here Miss Maleficent. You did all you could. So thank you so very much." Jaune quickly said. As he patted the woman on the should and gave her a reassured smile that it was fine

"Thank you young man. It warms my heart to hear that. Still I assume that you don't have anywhere to go. So that said would you like to stay here for the being. You'd have a home while we wait for you lovely bride to awaken." Maleficent offered. Giving Jaune an almost motherly pat on his shoulders

"Really… I mean if you don't mind then sure. Seriously thank you!" Jaune cheered. Before giving Maleficent a hug, as the woman hugged back before they let go of one another "Oh and before you go or anything. Did you see anyone else around me and Pyrrha. They're my family and I'm just worried about them."

"I apologize but we didn't see anyone else. That said. We could look for them while we wait for the young lady here to awaken. How's that sound?" Maleficent suggested

"That would be great. Thank you, seriously thank you so much. If you need any help just call me and I'll do it gladly!" Jaune replied. Happy as can be that he, Pyrrha and his yet unborn child/ children were in safe hands

"I'll keep that in mind. Now just relax and keep an eye on your bride. If you need something to eat, just come down stairs and the kitchen will be on your right. Oh and one more thing…." Maleficent began to say making her way to the door. Opening it, but stopped to look back at Jaune with one last sweet smile "Welcome to your home away from home. Tata."

With that Maleficent exited the room. Leaving Jaune and Pyrrha alone, Jaune sighing. But smiled as well as he felt so lucky that they again had been saved by a rather sweet woman. Sitting next to Pyrrha, he place his right hand over the shield around where her face was.

"Don't worry Pyrrha. I'm sure everyone else is okay…I… I'll keep you safe like always. For you and our kid or kids. I promise." Jaune muttered as he decided for now to just stay next to his fiancée and look upon her. Maybe he'd even take a quick nap too since he still felt a little tired

Though from outside the room. As Maleficent walked down the stairs with a bit of glee in her steps. Her once sweet smile turned into a more vicious and predatory grin. Her heart beating in utter joy at what had just occurred. She knew the boy was a hero type from his looks alone. But she didn't expect it to be SO easy to trick him with her good girl act.

Maybe he was too dense, or he just wasn't attuned to deception. But by god was that easy. Then again the fact she did in a sense save him, his bride to be and the unborn spawn she sensed. Probably had helped there too. Still she did find darkness that laid within his heart. Just under the surface. But it was there and screaming to be unleashed. Still she would take her time to corrupt the boy and considering their first of many talks.

Oh how easy it would be…

---

So, things had gone well enough. As much as 'well' could be used currently…

Oh yes for team RWBY and their new allies. They had so far been successful traversing through the long alley way full of heartless. Both the Shades and Knights trying all they could to stop them. To no avail so far.

Be it from Team RWBY's usual mindset when in battle. Having fought as a team for their first school year at Beacon or be it for their allies. From their good friends Donald's usage of various spells or Goofy's skilled usage of his shield. To their new allies Guin's brute strength using his sword and his hand-to-hand tactics. To Dante's talent with his scythe and cross in combos. Then to Ikail. Who's angelic blue blade and powers called the force had already claimed many kills when it came to the heartless. To their Pokemon having been called out too. Oh and even HK-97 had joined up with the group after his sensors went haywire from the heartless attack. That and his need to protect the girls.

All in all they seemed to work like a well-oiled machine. Maybe this was a team up made in heaven or maybe these ten were just that skilled naturally. That they could work off one another despite what differences they had. Either way as of now. The group had finally arrived outside the ally way and past another district or two before arriving into a third new district.

To be honest this district looked like an opened air generator room. Four generators on in each corner of the large square ground floor. As they looked down on it from the flight of stairs above. All of them, a bit tired here and there. But nothing too bad thankfully.

"So… that was some warm up. Fun wasn't it?" Yang mused taking a few deep breaths as she gave off her trade mark smirk

"Y-Yang… we have… have a different idea of… fun…" Donald said through his more noticeable gasps of air. Not having to do that sort of combat in quite a while considering the usual more peaceful times back at the castle

"That I do…that I do." Yang quipped. Before eyeing her little Anders in her arms once more. Seeming tired yet still willing to fight as she smiled in pride at the little guy. Said other Pokemon were resting either in the girls arms or in Weiss case perched on her shoulder. Hk-97 meanwhile was acting as a sentry for the time considering he was droid who didn't need to breath. But they like her were doing fine. She then focused on her three newest teammates who seemed better, but still taking on a few good deep breaths "You all good?"

"I am Yang. Just a bit tense." Guin answered cracking his neck for a moment as he looked around "It seems TOO peaceful here."

"So… a trap?" Goofy suggested as his own senses were screaming that to the case. He wasn't the captain of the guard for nothing back home

"That would be the answer there Goofy. But…I'm sure it's nothing." Blake exclaimed as she eyed the area some feeling a bit off herself. Her own feline senses flaring up just a bit "Still. Maybe that's just me being more optimistic for once."

"Nothing wrong with that Blake. Honest." Ruby reassured as Blake smiled a bit feeling a little better

"Full Agreement: Mistress Ruby is correct Mistress Blake. A healthy mind set can make all the difference. At least what I've read from those self help books back in Beacons Library." HK-97 answered as his senor's hadn't picked anything up yet

"Ruby and HK are correct Blake. Never hurts to be optimistic, trust me on that." Ikail gleefully agreed before looking around too "Still. If my guess is correct. This might be the Alphas current location, where it is I don't know. But…"

"But if we take it out. Then the rest of the heartless for the time being should vanish as well. Correct?" Dante finished for Ikail as the woman nodded that was indeed the plan. Dante then got his scythe ready again for what he assumed would be a fierce battle soon "Then let us keep out wits about us. Rather not be ambushed."

"Agreement: That is good suggestion. If we attack first we could get the advantage in this battle soon to be." HK-97 agreed once more as Dante gave the droid a half uneasy smile as he had never seen a being like HK so he was a bit wary still of the metal man

"Agreed. Let's head down slowly and if the alpha has made its home in the lower section. It won't like us entering." Weiss stated summoning her keyblade. The rest of her friends did the same as they let down their Pokemon who seemed prepped to fight again. Even her own Pokemon was ready seemed ready. The others following in suit as Weiss turned to Ruby "You lead dear. We'll follow."

"Right. Come on then let's see if we can find this mean old heartless." Ruby declared with a small smile as she began to make her way down the stairs

The others followed behind. Slowly as they took each step down and down. Before finally they arrived at the lower section of this area. Already they could feel a slight pressure in the air. One that felt wrong, unsettling even. Which made it quite apparent of the fact that this so called Alpha Heartless was here. Though as they walked to the center of the area. That was when it seemed the Alpha decided to attack.

It was all of a sudden as six pieces of what could be only armor appeared from a large dark portal. The armor falling to the ground, lifeless. But that didn't make it less creepy. The group tensed up as the armor gave off a very uneasy feeling. Their worries correct once the armor began to twitch.

Then it twitched and twitched some more, before lifting up into the air and landed back on the ground. The armored boots first then the body, followed by the arms and finally the head. All slowly forming a living armor held together by darkness itself. For the group it was obvious this was the Alpha Heartless. But before anyone could say something a beep echoed from Donalds coat pocket.

"Huh?" Donald muttered taking out the Pokedex Queen Mini had given him

"What's up with Dex?" Weiss questioned

"Hello user Weiss. My catalogue function has turned on as peer my programming . New entries Shade, Knight and Guard Armor have been added." Dex explained much to the groups surprise. Even Donald and Goofy who had no idea that was a thing

"So I'm assuming this is the Guard Armor. Um… Dex any idea how to beat this thing?" Blake asked as the repurposed Pokedex took a moment before he answered her

"Apologizes. Current information on Guard Armor is inclusive. Fighting one will allow me to scan for information." Dex explained as Blake sighed, along with some of the others as Donlad just pocketed the device once more

"Well that was useful… but at least we have an index now if we ever need info or a refresher." Ikail exclaimed as she and the rest looked back to the Guard Armor seeing it had got into a stance to attack "Well guess Dex gets his data now."

"Yeah. Let's all just keep safe and be smart. Cool?" Ruby stated, as the rest nodded or growled/ chirped/ barked. Smiling she cleared her throat before issuing her first order with her newly form team "Charge!"

With that, the team charged toward the Guard Armor. Which didn't take a second to attack. Leaping towards the group of nine and forcing them to spilt up in different direction. The Guard Armor spotting Blake who had Eri next to her, Goofy and Guin. Going for them first it swung its arms at them. Guin and Goofy the first to react as the blocked each arm with their own weapons. Using all the strength they could to keep the arms at bay. Blake took a chance as she told Eri to do a few thunder shocks and then joined in as she attacked the Guard Armor's body repletely.

The others seeing this as their chance to land in some solid hits. Attacked the other unguarded sides of the Guard Armor with various hits, spells and special moves. But this had been the Alpha's plan. As it gave the group a slight boost in confidence. As after a minuet of taking some damage, it spilt it's body parts to act on their own. The suddenness from this action pushing some of the group away while others began to fight the now separate sentient pieces.

Blake, Blakes Shinx Eri, Guin and Goofy were dealing with the body of the Guard Armor as it swung powerful if slow attacks. Yang, her Cyndaquil Anders, Ikail and Dante were fighting off the legs as they delivered continuous flurries of attacks.

While finally Weiss, Weiss Rookidee Edo, Ruby, Ruby's Evee Amora, HK-97 and Donald dealt with the arms; and the head. The arms dealing a variety of attacks while the head did quick hit-and-run tactics.

So far the battle was easy enough. Mainly because it was just the Guard Armor giving them issues, no Shades or Knights in sight. But maybe that was because this was the Alpha's fight and none wanted to cut in on their Alpha's 'fun' or more likely they were scared of the Guard Armor enough to stay away. The second suggestion was the more worrying.

"Come on. Just let up for a second!" Yang screamed. As she was blocking more than usual, as the legs had been kicking and kicking with no end so far to the flurry of attacks. Though they would stop ever few seconds as she told Anders to use Flamethower on them "Ikail, Dante any ideas?!"

"Maybe one or two. But you're not gonna like em!" Ikail answered first being pulled to the side by Dante when the legs were about to land a few hits on her finally "Thanks Dante!"

"Tis but no issue Ikail!" Dante replied. Being the only other one so far to push back legs somewhat thanks to his scythe and raw strength alone. Taking the agro once more as he knew he could take it while the girls though of a better plan then his usual 'Just hit it until it's dead' tactic "Ladies you need to quickly think of something!"

"We're on it!' Ikail responded back as she took a deep breath as Yang with a tried Anders in her arms ran up next to her "Yang, how are you and Anders. Anything serious, broken?"

"Nah I'm just a bit sore. Anders here is just tired is. That said our aura is weaker now so… our bodies can't heal as quick." Yang answered rubbing her right forearm as it was a bit strained from block the hits from the armored legs

"Quill…" Anders groaned as he was pretty tired already and Yang smiled for a moment as she gave the baby Pokemon a kiss on the top of the head and a head pat as Anders snuggled against her a bit "Quill. Quill…"

"It's okay Anders. This was your first real boss fight buddy and did you great. Here get some rest boy, you earned it." Yang stated as she took her Pokeball out and activated it. Seconds later a familiar red energy hit and took Anders back into the Pokeball. Yang smiled as she placed it back in her pocket before she summoned her keyblade once more

Then Yang looked seeing everyone still having issues themselves with the limbs. Weiss and Blake seeming to already call back their own Pokemon back into their Pokeballs as Ruby was just now doing that with her Amora as the Evee seemed tried. Not that Yang blamed any of their Pokemon for not lasting too long here. This had been their first real boss battle that wasn't a mock practice battle or against the more common heartless so it was assumed they'd be quickly tried out in this fight. Still Yang knew this had to be stopped soon.

"So any idea how we take down tall, dark and heavy in one strike?" Yang asked as she cringed just a bit seemed Ruby get hit and flung into Dante as the man thankfully caught her if barley as he skidded his armored boots against the ground for a moment. Before the two joined back in on the fight with the others again as she saw the legs had joined in on the fight with the others now "Because this ain't looking good already for us. Much as that sucks."

"Hm…" Ikail hummed. Her mind going into its 'tactical' mode as her friends back home called it. Analyzing, planning before finally a plan came to mind. One that would be hard to do considering what her plan entailed "Yang. Like I said, I got a plan. But it's going to be a bit difficult."

"Who's that?" Yang questioned cringing some when she saw HK-97 take a hard hit to his side; but still kept on shooting as she and Ikail conversed

"Simply. We have to force the Guard armor here to re-assemble into one being. That said, we all need to damage the limbs quickly enough to force it to do so. In theory at least. But here's the tricky thing, we all need to focus on each piece one at a time. The quicker we do so, the quicker we can get this over with." Ikail explained

"But wouldn't' that mean… you know?" Yang stated, as Ikail nodded in confirmation at what she was hinting at

"That is so. The other limbs will all be attacking us at the same time as we focus on one. Which is why we need to tell the others quicky. You get Ruby, Weiss and Donald. I'll get Blake, HK, Guin and Goofy. Sound good?" Ikail suggested. Yang taking a moment before nodding that she understood "Good. Now let's get going!"

"Right!" Yang replied as she and Ikail spread out. But Yang stopped for a moment and looked at Dante who was the closest "Hey dude. Hold out for a bit longer kay!"

"I will… TRY!" Dante answered back. Using is scythe currently to hold back the attacks from the legs with all his might as they seemed to be focused on him at the moment

"Cool!" Yang stated before making her way over to Weiss, Ruby and Donald

Speaking of. Weiss, Ruby and Donald were handling their portion of the fight well enough; despite the head of the Guard Armor making it irritating as they did their best to fight the arms. But again the three were doing well so far. Be it a mixture of Weiss and Ruby's partnership by now and Donalds magic too. It was perfect team up for the three.

"And back away from wife!" Ruby screamed slashing the left arm a bit that it backed away from Weiss. Before Ruby noticed the right arm swigging at her "Oh crap!"

"Not today!" Weiss yelled now. Blocking the right arm as she barely had enough strength left to hold it back

"Weiss thanks." Ruby stated kindly as she slashed the left arm again when it came in for a punch

"No…issue. But where's the-" Weiss began to say. Before she and Ruby saw the head dart right at them, before they were saved by Donald

"Blizzaga!" Donald yelled as seven whisps of ice hit the Guard Armor's head as it fell to the ground frozen. Donald himself moving to Weiss and Ruby "You girls okay?"

"Yeah. Thanks to you Donald. That spell helped." Ruby responded back kindly, Weiss nodding in agreement

But just then as Weiss swiped away the left arm this time. The right arm came in yet again for an attack on all three. Which by that point was too late to block or dodge since it was close enough they'd have to just take the hit. Only the arm was kicked by Yang who used all her strength to push the left arm into the wall and stunning it for a bit.

"Oh thank dust I got here before that thing hit ya three. You okay by the way?" Yang asked as Ruby, Donald and Weiss who was now struggling to keep the returning left arm at bay nodded "Ah good. Real good, oh and Weiss you need help?"

"Yes…yes that would be NICE!" Weiss answered. A little irked that this stupid left arm seemed to be going for just her now. Only right when she said that, the left arm was grabbed from behind by Guin as the man was using all his strength to pull the arm away "And I didn't expect that. But who am I to complain."

"GRAH!" Guin meanwhile roared swinging the left arm right into the set of legs all of sudden coming around for an attack. The force of the throw alone sending the three limbs a bit aways also stunned

"Nice throw Guin!" Ikail cheered as she, Dante, Blake, HK and Goofy came up to them now. Stopping Ikail noticed the head was thawing out so she forced lifted it. Before throwing it hard and back towards the left arm that only now coming out of its stunned state. Only this time crashing also into the body stunning all those too. Ikail smiled as she watched "Ha. New record that was… anyways. Yang told them the plan yet?"

"Nope was about too before you came in." Yang replied shrugging as she hadn't expected Ikail to have been that quick

"What plan?" Weiss questioned and was glad that she could take a short moment to rest up

"Simple. We all focus on a singular limb as a whole team. Force it to become one again, then we throw everything we have at it. It should wear it down for the final blow. " Ikail explained

"Wait, that would leave us open for the other limbs." Donald pointed out and Ikail chuckled as the duck man had a good point. But she had faith in them all

"True, tis true. But that just means we have to be quick. I have faith in us all with that." Ikail exclaimed looking at each body part of the Guard Armor. Each slowly losing its stunned state to attack once more "Now question is, which one is gonna attack first?"

Wasn't a second later before the body decided to attack by its lonesome self. Lunging at the group, slamming down at them with all its weight. Only for Dante, HK-97, Guin and Yang to block the attack as both sides fought against one another to overpower the other. The rest of the group decided to take the moment and start their attack on the first piece of the Guard armor.

It wasn't too long and after quite the beating before the body of the Guard Armor started to spark. Freezing in place like it was glitching trying to fix itself. The group realizing that it wouldn't be so hard to do Ikail's proxy plan. They then moved over to the Legs. As those seemed to be the second pair of limbs to come to it. Which quickly ended up getting attacked by the group in an all-out assault just like the body had done.

Like before after the onslaught of unending attacks. Both bladed and blunted. The legs began to spark and glitch up like the body. This process was repeated two more times. On the arms, which ended up being the quickest to take down into its glitchy state for whatever reason. The head well…

"Just stay put!" Ruby screamed as she was holding down the squirming nearly cracked helmet of the Guard Armor. The size making it harder for her to do so as she got a firm grip on it. Before standing back up as she struggled to keep the hold "H-Hey anyone want to do the honors here?"

"Hm, any of you folks ever play baseball?" Goofy asked

"Baseball?" Weiss questioned raising an eyebrow at that "Sounds…stupid. No offense."

"Well if it's anything like Blarge Ball then maybe. Let me ask does this baseball including team battles with simulated death?" Ikail questioned next

"Surprised: Oh I think I have that in my data banks. Odd but I do believe it's somewhat similar to that, aside from the simulated death battles." HK-97 chimed in as his memory banks at least had that info still

"That doesn't sound ethical at all…" Blake muttered as the rest stayed silent; though Donald gave Ikail a deadpanned stare

"Yeah… let me handle this." Donald stated before looking to Ruby smirking as he held his staff like a club with both his hands "Hey Ruby. Throw the head at me okay!"

"Why, that's weird?!" Ruby questioned as she had no idea why Donald would want to do so and she didn't want to potentially hurt her friend

"Just do it okay. Trust me!" Donald exclaimed as Ruby seemed hesitant before relenting. Doing her best to throw the large helmet considering her smaller size. She was able to well enough thankfully

Though as the helmet headed toward Donald. He was SO happy that he took the kings advice to put strengthen runes on his staff. That said as he swung his staff. The helmet felt more like a soft ball, the force of the hit cracking the helmet some more as it flew before crashing right on top of the nearly reformed Guard Armor. Causing a loud 'Thud' to echo as the Guard armor fell on its back hard. Before it sparked up to the point it exploded into black smoke. After a few moments those who knew of baseball could only cheer.

"HOME RUN!" Donald and Goofy cheered. The others surprised at how effective that just was. Though the girls at least saw that this so called 'Baseball' was similar to a sport they knew of

"Huh so it similar to a sport we played. Grimm Breaker." Weiss exclaimed as she wasn't too much of a sports girl. But she did know of Grimm Breaker, that and she admittedly owned a few deluxe Grimm Breaker plushies. A fact that she would let no living soul ever know of

"Grimm Breaker?" Guin asked curious on what the difference even was

"Simple big guy. The thrower hurls the ball at the hitter. The goal of the hitter is to smack the ball to hit a makeshift Grimm and decapitate it. Depending on how decimated the head is after. The points given will reflect that. It's pretty competitive with various type of sub-games types included." Yang rather casually explained. Though from an outsiders perspective it was kind of…just WOW. Like, WOW…

"I…you know what never mind. Questions for later." Ikail said as she decided to save her own questions for a more appropriate time. Looking to the spot where the Guard Armor had been at she smiled "Have to say. Didn't even have to do the second part of the plan. We all make a real good team don't we?"

"Yeah I think so. Oh and before I forget. Dante, I really. REALLY want to see you scythe. Pretty please, don't leave a girl hanging!" Ruby pleaded unsummoning her Keyblade as she ran up to Dante with childlike glee "Please. Super-duper please!"

"Ruby I don't think that's a good idea. No offense but you're a little too… you know. Small." Dante gently refused. As he was worried the young lady would hurt herself trying to hold the scythe

"Hey that's not true. I'm still growing!" Ruby pouted. Never one to take statements about her height well. It wasn't her fault she was shorter than most, she was still growing and she was only fifteen for dusts sakes

"Sorry about my baby sis Dante. She's a bit sensitive about her height. Kind of like my Ice Queen of a sister ." Yang exclaimed smirking some when she noticed her sister in law giving her a stink eye

"Funny…real funny sis." Weiss mused before she moved closer to Ruby with a kind smile "Don't worry dear. It's not bad to be a bit short, besides you'll grow taller than me for sure. I'm sadly stuck at this height…"

"D'aw thanks Weiss and don't be so glum. I like your height. You're fun sized!" Ruby happily replied hugging her wife seconds later "Fun sized and sweet. That's my wife for ya!"

"Hehe…thanks…dolt." Weiss tried to play off. Sounding cooler than she was feeling, as her cheeks warmed up a little from her wife's kind words

"They sure are chipper. I'll admit, it's a bit refreshing." Dante muttered, though wondered about the wife thing. But let it be before he coughed loudly to get the girls attention. When he saw that he had it, he looked to Ruby as he held his scythe out to her "Alright Ruby I'll let you hold my scythe. Just be careful not to…."

Dante and the others excluding an amused Blake, HK-97, Donald, Goofy Weiss and Yang. All suddenly were perplexed as they saw Ruby storm right up to Dante. Before easily lifting the scythe from his hands. Then doing a few twirls and such with it. Like it was NOTHING. She an on the smaller side teen girl, was easily swigging and twirling around the bone made scythe like it was normal. Didn't help with how nonchalant Ruby sounded during the whole thing.

"Huh it's a lot lighter than Cresent Rose and I'll admit, despite it's more primitive look. The craftsmanship is astounding. The gear here looks a little rusted sadly, but maybe we can fix it up. Besides it looks like it allows you to have your blade point upwards so that's helpful. Though I would like to see if maybe in the future if I can totally put in a gun mod. I think for you maybe a shotgun. Would a shotgun work for ya?" Ruby went on as her gun nut side was screaming idea's to incorporate into Dante's weapon. Then she handed Dante his scythe back who took it while Ruby sported an ever so chipper smile

"I ah… will ah… I'll take it into consideration Ruby. Thank you." Dante replied. Letting what he just saw sink into his mind, the others did the same as they realized that was something they'd have to get use too

"ANYWAYS…" Donald cut in, he and Goofy looking to the girls "Guess it's the start of that mission we talked about girls."

"Right… the missions to save everyone…" Yang stated as she was starting to feel the pressure of that little matter again "Look I know you've said it before and even reassured us. But are you guys sure it's US. I know these Keyblades are like super special and all that. But maybe it's someone more… impressive or well you know."

"I have to agree with my sister here. I just don't think any of us are qualified to be world saviors. We're still in school for dust sakes. How are we supposed to save all these other worlds?" Weiss added in. As she still had a hard time believe she and the girls were chosen ones, those only happened in story books and they were just normal teen girls… at least that's what she kept telling herself

"Yeah…" Blake muttered as she sighed some "That and the fact we lost two of our own to who knows where. Some hero's we are so far…"

"Hm…" Ruby whimpered as she and the girls began to frown more and more as they really didn't feel like such hero material right now considering the events leading up to them to arrive in this town in the first place "Look, sure we make a great team and all. But maybe some other better people could be your saviors…"

"Sternly scolding: Now, now my Mistresses. Enough of that. You four have such a bad habit of putting yourselves down when it comes to this. Doesn't you four being here with those Keyblade of yours indicated that you are indeed our hero's. I think it does and you all know it does. So again enough of this my Mistresses. You are indeed our hero's." HK-97 reassured as the girls couldn't argue much with that even if that wanted too

"HK is right girls. No need to bring yourself down and just because things look bad now. Don't mean it won't get better." Goofy reassured too with a kind smile

"Goofy is correct there. You four are little too hard on yourselves. Try and give yourselves some more credit." Guin remarked giving the four teens a nod

"Agreed. Besides we already sworn to follow you girls and no one else. I think I can say we're people of our word." Dante exclaimed as the others nodded in agreement with him "See. So keep those spirits up."

" And with that said no frownie faces ladies." Ikail remarked sweetly as she gave the four a quick pats on their heads like an elder sister

"Yeppers. Our ship we're gonna be using runs on smiles. So give us your best smiles!" Donald added in with a thumbs up to the girls

"Smiles…" Ruby muttered. As she, Weiss, Blake and Yang looked to one another. A little hesitant at themselves as Ruby sighed a bit "Well, girls?"

It wasn't a few seconds later the girls slowly lowered their heads. The others wondering what they were doing. But then team RWBY lifted their heads back up once more. Only this time with the biggest smiles they could muster. Mostly looking forces. That and a bit strained too.

"How's this!?" Team RWBY asked through their teeth and feeling a little silly for such an over reactive smile

The amused chuckles and laughter that came after such a question was the answer. The girls though oddly felt the need to join in and soon they did so. After what seemed to be half a minute of laughter. They all stopped, the girls feeling better than before. They had needed a good laugh like this as it really had helped. Seconds after they heard from their right down the stairs. A pair of footsteps, seeing that it was Leon.

"Well seems like you were able to pull through. Good job ladies, thanks to you and your team here. The remaining Heartless either fled or are being tracked by some of the others. I'm sure you'll meet most of them next time you visit." Leon exclaimed but continued on "Still glad to see you're not so down now. I know this isn't what any of you wanted. But I'm glad to see you're seeming more up to the task at hand. Just stay safe okay, I mean if we lose you. Well there goes our lives. So no pressure."

"Thanks…" Ruby muttered. While Blake frowned some alongside Weiss and Yang eye twitched in slight irritation. But they at least could tell he was trying to be nicer, word being 'TRYING'. Letting out a small sigh she smiled back at the man "Still again thanks. For real, but can you…"

"Don't worry. I'll tell your friends you'll be out saving the world." Leon in a much kinder to replied

"Well double thank you for that." Blake said, before she and the girls eyed HK-97 "HK we want you to stay here if only because we want you to help out with keeping this town safe. This is probably going to be our new home for a while and the others will need help too. So again HK if you could."

"Joyful and reassuring reply: Do not fret Mistress Blake, you and the other mistresses can rest easy knowing I shall be keeping an eye on your kin. That is my promise and I live to serve." HK-97 said with a bow as the girls were happy that HK didn't mind stay here

"Thank you HK, as always you truly are a good friend and servant to us." Blake stated kindly before focusing back on the others "Anyways we should get going now."

"That we should Blake. Now follow me and Goofy, we were told our ship is outside in some kind of docking bay past the entrance of this place. So we'll lead you there!" Donald happily stated, before making his way towards the doorway on this section of the area

The girls and the others waved their goodbyes to their Leon and HK-97, before making their way out. Which turns out lead straight back into the first area the girls; and their friends had found themselves in. Still following Donald and Goofy from the gate they were heading to. A ragged black cloaked man passed them. Only for Ruby being next to Weiss in the back of the group, to accidently bump into the man. As she fell on her back side.

"Ow…" Ruby muttered before she saw the man she'd bump into lend her a hand. Seeing no issue, she took it as he helped her up "Um sorry mister."

"Oh no deary. My apologizes. I should have been looking where I was going, but after my trip back here with no sleep for two days. I will admit that I maybe a bit out of it." The cloaked man exclaimed kindly with a somewhat fatherly tone

"Two days huh. That's a lot." Yang remarked as she was glad the man didn't seem to blame Ruby and we even kind enough to help her baby sister up

"Yeah what were you doing out there for?" Blake questioned next. Curious as she wasn't getting any off vibes from the guy, then again maybe it was just her nerves still flared up some after the battle

"Hm, well I was simply exploring. You see I like to study how the pathways outside work and such. Quite fascinating too." The cloaked man answered happily as he seemed enthralled with his work

"That sounds dangerous to do all on your own sir. I mean what if you break something or get stuck?" Weiss exclaimed as she found the man's job rather dangerous considering

"Hehe. Most wonder that but don't fret young one. I have my ways of keeping out of trouble." The cloaked man answered. Amused some, before he realized something he'd forgotten to do "Why silly me. I almost forgot. My name is Benjamin and who may you young ladies be?"

"Oh well nice to meet you Benjamin. I'm Ruby, Yang is the blonde girl and my big sister!" Ruby answered pointing to Yang who gave the man a smile. Before Ruby then pointed to Blake and Weiss "The girl with the cat ears is Blake whose my besties and Weiss is the pretty girl who I call my wife!"

"Hello, pleasure to meet you sir." Weiss said, with a small curtsy while Blake simply nodded

"Huh…." Ikail, Guin and Dante muttered as the three had noticed that about the rings they saw Weiss and Ruby wore. But they didn't think the two were married to each other. Though no one heard them so the conversation went on

"Well meet then the pleasure is mine. But what of your friends with you?" Benjamin inquired, looking to the others who seemed oddly a little guarded as they stared at Benjamin

"Oh them. We only just meet at least three of them being Ikail, Guin and Dante. They're really nice so far. Meanwhile Donald and Goofy here have been with us for a while. They're also very nice." Ruby answered. Though for her and the girls they didn't seem to notice their allies more guarded state

"Well it's good to meet them as well. But I need to make my way off as adventuring never awaits and because I need some food. Anyways again it was a pleasure to meet you all. Stay safe and enjoy what the outside of the quaint town has to offer. Tata!" Benjamin cheered in glee before making his way off, then was out of sight seconds afterwards

"He seemed like a nice guy. Hope we can talk to him again since I'm sure he'd have lots of info for us." Ruby stated

"I think so too Ruby. Hm maybe we can get him a new cloak too, pains me to see anyone wear such a dirty old thing like he was." Weiss chimed in as her more fashion loving side of her mind was taking over

"True dat. But now I'm WAY more curious on what's waiting for us outside this place. I'm totally excited for it!" Yang cheered as now this whole world traveling business sounded way more fun than before

"Always the one for adventure Yang. Heh." Blake teased. Yang chuckling a little before Blake looked back too others now finally noticing they seemed a little off "Hm, what's wrong. Something on your minds?"

"No Blake. Just tired is all. I'm sure once we get on this ship of yours we can take a quick nap. Anyways, let's get going girls." Ikail answered for her and the rest. A small smile donning her face as the girls only nodded

Then they made their way off again to leave this place and start their new journey. For the girls they couldn't help but feel scared, excited and curious too. They hoped only that things wouldn't get too hectic or dangerous. They were still huntresses in training after all. But again they hoped it would smooth enough sailing from here on.

Oh how foolish they were, so foolish to ever hope for that in this journey…

---

As our hero's departed for the start of their journey. None had taken notice of the lone Shade watching from above. Watching the battle that had unfolded before they left. Then as the Shade vanished, what it had seen was sent back to somewhere else. A place where a familiar woman called Maleficent was watching. With her others stood around in the shadows. Watching as a council deciding what to do next upon this information.

"Hm how interesting. It seems these four humans are more than just pretty faces to leer at. Interesting indeed." A deep almost demonic yet humanoid man said as his silhouette also showed horns or make a spiked crown that poked upward and a pair of bat like wings "They would make good slaves for my pleasure palace that's for sure."

"You organics and your…urges. That said I will agree. Those four are much more troublesome than expected. Most unfortunate. But such is the power of these Keyblades it seems. We must be wary." Another man said, his tone deep and robotic as his silhouette was the tallest of everyone as he crossed his arms

"Then why don't we turn them into heartless, that could settle things quickly enough?" Another man said, sternly and seeming annoyed at all the chatter. Though his voice sounded synthesis too a bit. His silhouette showing a bald man with thick armor around his shoulder and what seemed to be a cape

"Their friends is why fool. Hm, I can't believe I'm wasting my time thinking on these little rat peasants." A older vile sounding woman remarked with a sneer. Her silhouette showing a thin woman who wore an extravagant look robe and headdress of sorts

"Well you're no prize yourself missy. HAHA!" A booming deep male voice responded back in amusement but it was more mocking then anything and silhouette show what looked like a large round sack person

"Shut up!" The older vile woman screamed through her teeth and was irritated even more now

"Now, now. We're all allies here, let us not build fences between us as it will not serve any of our purposes otherwise." A calm voice man said. His silhouette not showing much aside from an average sized man. Though a glint of what seemed to be a pair of shades

"'Vero' I must agree with the father here. You two truly though are acting like children, but I would call them 'idiota's' more than children. That's insulting to children." A foreign male voice with an Italian sounding accent said. His own silhouette showing a plump robbed man

"Ugh. For the love of… PLEASE use words we all know?!" The vile woman demanded as she found the plumped robbed man's odd words grating at times

"Fine, quick lesson. Vero means true and idiota means idiot, happy now you idiota?" The foreign man exclaimed. Annoyed more than anything by this point that he seemed to be the only one who knew of his beautiful language

"Now who is sounding like a child?" A smooth talking man mocked as his silhouette showed another robbed man who had glowing blue fire like hair

"Enough. I will not have discourse within my own home!" Maleficent the only one not hiding within the shadows screamed. Her voice echoing just a bit from her temporary moment of rage

"Our apologizes, Maleficent." All the others within the room said. Some more sincere and others more forced, but all were the same in the end

"Hm. While I do understand banter can be needed in groups such as this. We must keep our minds focused. The Keyblades have chosen these four girls, but will it be them who conquers the darkness or will the darkness swallow them whole into nothingness. Either way they could prove quite useful in the future." Maleficent exclaimed, narrowing her eyes at the still images of team RWBY and their allies. Before looking at the last two before them in their group "Though I may ask of you our two newest members. I'm sure you'd have more insight here considering they are of your world."

"That we would and I personally would keep an eye on them all. I've heard enough about them so far that taking these girls lightly would be a fools gambit. Coupled with their new allies and you can understand what I'm getting at." A young man sternly said. Cross his arms as his silhouette showed he had spiky short hair, some kind of eye mask and what looked to be two bull like horns on his head

"Especially my beloved Blake here. Oh she's so cute even now!" The second of the newcomers said. A girl this time whose silhouette showed only that she sported some kind of long ponytail "How I can't wait to see her again and tell her my feelings finally."

"Aren't you the obsessive one?" The bull horned man replied back with a sneer

"Oh I'm sorry mister EX-Boyfriend or wait I wouldn't even call you that. Since you only ask Blake out a half an hour before your train heist. Where she basically dumped you not even twenty minutes later and never came back. How sad." The girl mocked as the bulled horned man seemed to tense a bit

"You little-" The bull horned man was about to say and strike the girl across the face. Only for Maleficent to cut in again

"Silence children. You petty relationship drama will not be tolerated here!" Maleficent ordered as she narrowed her eyes "Understood?"

"…. Yes lady Maleficent… we understand." Both the girl and man answered with a bow. Though without even the needed to see their faces. One could tell they gave each other one last glare before focusing back on Maleficent

"Good. Very good. For now though we will wait and watch them more. See how much of a true threat they will turn out to be. Once we get enough information the next phase of the plan will commence." Maleficent said as she smirked at the actually anticipation she was feeling about this upcoming war of theirs "And if they turn out to be a threat beyond what any of us guess well then we'll simply destroy them will our combine might and as they die I will take great pleasure in watching their life fade away. After that the world and what lies beyond with be for our taking. Heh…hehe…haha…. HAHAHAHAHAHAHA!"

As Maleficent laughed, she at least understood that it would be still difficult to defeat these for and their little friends. But hey, that was the half the fun either way.

---

Elsewhere…

It was another day like any other in a suburban household. The grass green, the house a tannish color and gave off a feeling of comfort and stability.

Here lived a happily married mother and father, along with two sons. But our focus will be on the older son. A teen who currently was waking up from his messy bedroom as he groaned some. Rubbing his eyes as he opened the window as the light from the sun shined in. Getting out of bed as he wore nothing but black gym shorts, he groggily grabs his clothes for today.

Once that was done with, the young man enters his bathroom and freshens up quickly. Once he's done, showered, brushed his teeth and changed into his outfit for today. He sees his still sleepy little brother waiting at the door, clothes in hand as his glasses hung a bit down his nose. The older teen smiles as he just ruffles his little brothers hair as the boy grumbles some which got a chuckle from the older boy.

So as he makes his way off to let his little brother use the bathroom and get ready. He makes his way down the stairs past his slumbering boxer Spike who was happily laying in his doggy bed. Giving his dog a quick pet on the head the young teen then makes his way into the kitchen. Where his father was helping his mother finish up with cooking breakfast.

As they finish and as the younger brother who was quicker made his way down and into the kitchen. The whole family then ate breakfast and enjoyed their time together. Their dog Spike even coming over for scraps if any, still this was a happy family if any.

Anyways once all was done, dishes cleaned, the dog happily feed and the morning enjoyed. The two brother grabbed their backpacks and made their way off to school. As they made their way out of the door about to leave. Their mother calls out to them.

"Boys!" The mother yelled as the boys stop looking back at their mom who walked up to them with a smile "I just wanted to say be careful today. I know it's Friday and you two promises to meet up with your friends for some fun at the arcade after school. But ever since well… the changes around here. Me and your father just worry is all."

"It be fine mom. Me and Raf will stay in the city limits. Besides the danger areas are out ways. None of us go there." The teen said as his younger brother or Raf nodded in agreement

"Yeah mama. Besides we got those soldiers keeping an eye out. So no worries, me and Sam will keep safe." Raf reassured as his older brother or Sam smiled

"I know. I know, just keep it mind is all. Love you boys and have a nice day at school." The boys mothers said as she gave her sons a kiss on the cheeks

"Judie. Can you help me in here, I think the milks gone bad but I can't tell. Can you give the good old sniff test!" The boy's father asked their mother or Judie as the woman chuckled some

"Coming Ron!" Judie said amusingly to her husband or Ron as she gave her sons just one more kiss on each of their cheeks just because. Before making her way back into the house as the door closed

"Well let's get going Raf. School doesn't wait… sadly." Sam said as he and his brother made their way off and down the street to their new school a bit aways. As they did so Sam decided to ask his brother on something he'd been worried about "Hey Raf."

"Yeah Sam?" Raf replied back as he looked at his big brother

"Been adjusting to school. I know it's been weird since the event happened that lead to all… this. But just wanted to make sure is all." Sam asked as he still found this new world of theirs odd

"Well best as I can. I mean a good chunk of the people we know are well… not anywhere anymore so…" Raf answered as he sighed "Not to mention how big the school is now and all the people in it."

"I get ya. I feel the same Raf, but hey at least some of our friends are here and did you hear. Apparently when the incident happened. A few new families had just moved in so maybe we'll make some new friends with them too. That and I guess were getting a few new students. Sounds nice right?" Sam said as he gave his brother a kind smile

"Heh. Yeah it does and… oh boy." Raf began to say, before he stopped which made Sam stop and was about to ask why until he saw too

For he saw the backs of four people that looked rather familiar, being apparently extorted by a gang of several gang members of Japanese's decent. Each gang member in a mixture of greens, pinks, whites and such. That and some with pistols holsters while one at least had a red baseball bat. Oddest thing was that the gang members had prosthetic limbs that went from hands, to their arms and even legs.

"Crap… maybe we should-" Sam started to say. Before one of the people. One of the two boys in the group with the two others being girls spoke up

"Hey man. Let us through, there ain't no pass fee ya know!" A young tanned boy screamed irritably as his voice had a hint of a Latin accent. Said boy quickly shut up when the leader of the gang pulled out a gun and aimed it at the four as they flinched

"Well there is now dipshit. This is Tyger Claw territory now and we say you need to pay a fee if ya want to pass. Got it!" The leader with a thick Japanese accent before one of the girls cut in

"Give us a break jerk. The police and military pushed you guys out when all this started remember!" The girl, who had dark hair and looked more Caucasian argued as the other boy who was also Caucasian and had black hair cut in now

"Lorie don't provoke them. Same with you Carlos. They guys got a gun!" The boy said worriedly yet sternly as he just didn't want to see his friends get shot

"Jack's right guy. You're just tempting fate now." The last of the group and second girl added in as she was a bit nervous as she looked at Loire "Sis please…"

"Sorry Alexis but this is a load of bull and you know it. These guy ain't nothing but a bunch of thugs!" Lorie argued as she glared at the leader who looked just ready to shoot the group of teens himself

"Heck yeah they are!" Carlos added in as he and Lorie seemed dead set on not paying up

"Guys please…" Jack pleaded as he was getting real worried

"You know what. Maybe me and friends here should show you kids some manners." The leader stated as her narrowed his eyes from behind his shades as two others in his gang of seven pulled out a revolver and shotgun. The one with the bat smirked while the last three cracked their knuckles

But before the group of four could be shot up or beaten. Suddenly from behind Sam with Raf came in seeming stressed yet calm enough to those who knew them. They stopped moments later with a smile on their faces. Sam taking the initiative.

"There you guys are. Me and Raf were looking for you." Sam said as he gave the four pats on the shoulder before looking to the gang leader "And ah… whose this?"

"None of your fucking business kid. But since you're here, maybe you can talk with your chooms. Have em pay up?" The leader asked sternly and seeming at his wits end

"Pay for what ah… sir?" Raf asked a bit nervously

"UGH. Pay, like pay for the damn fee to pass through our territory kid." The leader answered angrily

"B-But ah. Didn't you guys and those other gangs get-" Raf began to say before the leader seemed to have enough and shot a round in the ground. Near the group of now six's feet as they flinched again "H-Hey no need for that mister!"

"Shut the fuck up kid!" The leader ordered as he seemed to take a deep breath, before speaking once again "Alright this is how it's gonna work brats. You pay and we let you through, you don't and you get sent to morgue. Got it?"

"And like we said-" Lorie began to say again. Only for Alexia to cover her mouth before she ended up getting them shot. Carlos was about to do something to, but Jack grabbed his shoulder slightly tight and nodded a silent 'Don't please.'

"Ah ha… um what my friend was gonna say was how much?" Sam asked as he was thankful for Alexia and Jack helping keep their more strong headed friends from making this worse

"Fifty euro… ahem, fifty lien, caps or bucks." The leader said. Only to correct himself as the currency here was still a bit of mess

"As a whole?" Sam asked back hoping so

"Each." The leader corrected as he cross his arms, his gun stull in his right hand and his six other lackies were waiting for the order to kill

"Each you kidding me man. Come on you think any of us have that on us?" Sam argued back now as that was just straight up highway robbery there

"Well tough shit kid. Those the rules unless… hm. How bout you give us your little gal pals for some…heh. Fun." The leader suggested as he eyed Lorie and Alexia who got really creeped out as the man and some his gangmates leered at them. The boys pushing the two back behind them as a kind of shield

"Dude they're barley fifteen!" Sam argued yet again as the leader glared back him as he shoved his gun against Sam's face just barely as it got real tense all of sudden

"So what. That ain't stop me yet or my friends. Now what's it gonna be, money or your little joy toys?" The leader remarked as Sam glared back

"Ain't happening. So screw off!" Sam yelled as the leader was surprised by that before he started to laugh

"Ha get a load of this kid. Got a set on him that's for sure!" The leader chuckled as his lackies laughed some before he focused back on Sam with a smirk "Still what the hell you gonna do kid. If you can't see I'm the one with the gun!"

Sam took a deep breath keeping his cool as he was thankful for the classes in their new schools self defense and for the last lesson on disarming an opponent with a gun. Problem was the gang leaders friends and the fact if he wasn't quick enough they all could end up dead quickly. Though also it was because he'd never had the thought he'd have to disarm someone for real one day if needed. So this was nerve racking more than it should be. Though Sam knew he had to do something.

But as if an angel was watching over his back. Suddenly the gang leaders robotic hand was shot from the side and flew right off as the leader knelt over in pain groaning the metal stump that use to be where his hand was sparked. All the while he was cursing in Japanese now. His lackies looked to their left and quickly raised their hands up dropping their weapons. Then the kids all looked that way and saw their saviors.

It was a group of ten. Five heavily armored people with heavy weaponry aimed at the gang and stitched to their shoulders was a badge with the name 'U.C.W Militech' on it. While four of the others were men and women with service rifles in their hands and aimed too at the gang. While they were wrapped in a more dark brown cloth like armor. On their shoulders was also a badge of a two headed bear. The name 'U.C.W-NCR' printed on.

Then came the last of the ten, the one leading this patrol and with a 45.7 Caliber revolver or Ranger Sequoia aimed too. That and with the barrel smoking still from just being shot. This person wore some rather heavy looking armor over plain clothing and a helmet with red lens, along with a collard long coat. The badge on their left shoulder saying 'U.C.W-Rangers' on it. It was this person who spoke.

"Well, well. What do we got here. Some left overs trying to bother some kids. Alright don't move or the next one goes between the eyes." The Ranger who was woman as her voice indicated as such warned. Before looking at one of the Militech soldiers "Ford you, Macky and Kendra cuff em. The rest of you keep your guns trained. I'm going to have a word with our guests. Actually Dylan radio in the Center and ask them why the hell we don't have one of those Hunters or Pro Heros here already. We were supposed to have them by yesterday from what I was told."

"Yes ma'am!" The other nine replied back before doing their tasks

As they did so, Ford, Macky and Kendra cuffing the gang members while the others kept their guns trained on them and Dlyan radioing in the Center. The Ranger moved over to the kids who quickly felt a bit more at ease at being now thankfully.

"Well now. You kids are lucky we came along, didn't you get the memo last night?" The Ranger asked somewhat sternly

"Ah what memo miss…." Carlos began to say. Before he realized they hadn't ask her yet

"Just call me Clarie. Anyways guess that's another thing I need to tell the Center." Claire said as she sighed knowing that it wasn't kids fault getting caught up here "Well since you I'm here I'll tell you. Last night we got reports that the Tyger Claws, Animals, Malestrom, Sacvs, Raiders and even those... Eden Gate people having been seen in this area more and more lately. So we just asked everyone to keep an eye out, that and stay away if see any of them; then to call the police."

"Oh ah thanks for the heads up then Miss Clarie. But are you sure those Eden Gates people are showing up here too more. I'm mean they do every once in a while, but they don't seem that bad. At least that's what the news says." Alexia asked a little nervously

"Yep and yep. Also don't be fooled girl, any of you for that matter. Those Gate freaks aren't as docile as they seem and I can already smell trouble from them. So keep your eyes out okay?" Clarie answered as the kids all nodded they understood much to her relief. Then she saw Dlyan walk up to her "Dlyan what's the word?"

"Center command said that a Hunter wasn't available so they sent some of their Ops from Atlas. Who were supposed to be here ma'am. But apparently they got caught in breaking up a death match between a Fanaus who decided to get some chrome and went psycho, and a pissed off Death Claw along with one of those Grimms called an Ursa. That and the Pros are held up too with a spike of gang spotting." Dylan answered as Clarie sighed

"Great… still off all the ugh. Any casualties with the fight that broke out?" Clarie asked as that would definitely make it hard for whoever this team was to get here on time and the Pros with all that seemed to be happening

"Surprisingly no and MaxTac came in with the police during it to help out the Ops team. Though there were a few wounded, one man even lost an arm. But Trauma team was able to get him and the other wounded patched up as best they could considering." Dylan explained "Orders now ma'am?"

"You and the others get those punks in the truck. Then send them off to HQ for questioning. Leave them with Bones. I'm sure that insane Mister Gutsy can get them talking." Clarie ordered

"Um ma'am I'm not saying no but… you sure. Commissioner Gordan is not gonna be fond of that." Dylan asked cringing a bit as that man kind of scared the crap out of him

"I'll handle Gordan. Believe or not we are friends even if we do argue a lot, beside tell his second in command Rivers first. He'll understand more and help when Gordan gives me another lecture." Clarie stated as Dylan nodded before looking back at the rest of his patrol. Then ordered them to get the seven Tyger Claw members into the truck. As they did Clarie looked back to the kids "Anyways sorry you had to listen to all that adult stuff. But just to say, we're probably going to seeing each other more often."

"Have you been assigned here Miss Clarie?" Carlos asked for him and his friends

"That's right. This is part of the Urban sector of the city so that's why. That and the fact those punks were here; and from what Dylan told me. We're going to be needed. By the way what are your names kids?" Clarie inquired

"Oh ah, I'm Sam. The little guy with the glass is my brother Raf." Sam replied back first with a nod

"Nice to meet you." Raf simply said with a smile as Clarie was already feeling like she was going to like these kids

"And I'm Alexia. The other girl is my sister Lorie." Alexia said next as Lorie flicked the side of her head. Making Alexia flinched for a moment "Hey…"

"Sorry but you mean big sister right?" Lorie asked smirking as Alexia rolled her eyes

"By like five seconds Lorie. Big difference." Alexia snarked back as she and Lorie stuck each other tongues at one another for a few moments as Clarie almost chuckled

"Don't mind those two. They're like that, anyways I'm Jack and if you're going to be around here often. You'll probably meet my mom one way or another. She's a nurse but she's also being trained to be a field medic too." Jack answered as Clarie realized she probably already had meet the woman

"Hm… is her name June. If so I meet her when I needed a quick check up before being assigned here. Nice lady, told me your father is a military man." Clarie said as June had been her nurse that day for the check up and such a pleasure to talk with

"Yep that's my mom and my dad is. He's actually supposed to be coming back soon for a break before going back on duty." Jack answered as Clarie had a feeling she also had meet the man when was back at the Center. As she remembering seeing a solider that looked eerily similar to Jack with those two government agents at one point. But she didn't say anything since she didn't know if she was fully sure on that

"Anyways I'm Carlos and thanks again for helping us out Miss Clarie." Carlos thanked as his friends said their quick thanks to the woman also

"Eh no problem. I'm just glad we came in time." Clarie said as she already found the kids endearing and she was happy she'd be probably seeing them around often

"So can we pass now. We're gonna be late for school?" Sam asked now as Clarie felt bad to be the bearer of bad news

"Sorry kids. Can't now knowing possible gang activity could be going on around here. Me and my guys have to make sure it's clear which could take the rest of the day." Clarie answered as the kids groaned a bit knowing now they'd late. Clarie again felt bad "Again sorry. I mean I'd let you through if you had some protection. But since you don't can't."

"I could be of… help." A man suddenly said from behind the group of teens as they and Claire looked to see who it was

It was man that was for sure if the lower part of his face indicated much. That aside his whole body was just made of metal. From his arms, legs, torso, neck, etc. He also wore a helmet that covered the rest of his head with a black slit glass visor. Finally he was a mixture of black and a light-ish metallic blue. Clarie upon seeing him saluted.

"Robocop sir!" Clarie said as this was the first time she'd seen the man cyborg. But had heard enough so far that he was one of the main reason they'd won their mini-war with the gangs/ raiders/ etc early on when all this madness started

"At ease fellow lawman. I am responding to a call from worried neighbors in this area, saying they saw a group of teens being harassed by some Tyger Claws." Robocop explained as he eyed the teens and donned a very small smile "It is nice to see you again Sam, Raf, Jack, Lori, Alexis, Carlos."

"It's nice to see you too Officer Murphy." Raf replied back first as Lori and Sam nodded in agreement

"Yeah totally dude. I thought you'd be busier than ever considering the police force has been getting new recruits. Thought you'd be training them ya know?" Carlos exclaimed

"Hey where's Detective Rivers. He's usually with you if he's not doing cases." Sam asked this time

"He is busy. When we got word on possible Tyger Claw sightings here, Rivers decided to do some searches around the other parts the Center. Be it here, downtown or the country side." Robocop or now Murphy answered "As for your question Carlos. Gordon is taking care of training today. He has me out on patrol today with the NCR, Hunters, Huntresses and Militech forces. Speaking of may I ask about those Tyger Claws your men have locked in your truck?"

"O-Okay but before that sir. You know these kids?" Clarie asked surprised by that. Then looked at the group of teens "And you know Robocop?!"

"Heh… yeah. When this insanity started, some of those crazy Malestrom guys were around. Officer Murphy saved us and we helped him out when they got him good with a few grenades. Knocked those creeps out real quick thanks to Alexis and Raf coming up with an idea to hack into their implants at the time." Sam explained as the two mentioned rubbed the back of their head or left arm at the compliment

"And the help was much appreciated. Still I'll escort you to school in the truck." Murphy said pointing to his patrol car that was a few feet away. Which was more of an armored truck if anything "I'll be there in a minute or two. I just need to speak with Ranger Clarie."

"Alright then Officer Murphy that's fine also…SHOTGUN!" Sam replied back. Before running to the car as the others chuckled and followed behind

As they did that, Murphy yet again smiled a bit. As they reminded him of his son in a way when he was but a boy still and how energetic he was before Murphy became… well what he is now sadly. Still that aside he focused back on Clarie.

"Now then Clarie. Have you seen any more Tyger Claw or any of the other affiliated gangs?" Murphy questioned as Clarie simply nodded a 'no' as her answer "I see. That is… troubling."

"Troubling isn't even the half of it sir. Not by a long shot." Clarie stated as she decided she might as well use his name since he used hers and she felt comfortable with the cyborg already "I mean look I know we took out a lot of the gangs members. But the damn raiders joining with them is what I'm hearing around town. Don't even want to know what would happen if the Khans or worse the Legion decided to join up or merge with some of these chromed out groups."

"Agreed. The possibilities of that are rather unsettling." Murphy said. Knowing that would mean bad news if the chrome jockey gangs decided to merge with those like the Great Khans or wore as Clarie put it, the Legion "Speaking of them. What of the Legion. Any signs of them near the Hoover Dam?"

"Not yet thankfully. Ever since this all started the Legion has been quiet and that worries me. The Dam though has been fortified beyond belief ever since this whole event began for us. But gladly everyone pitching in to fix the place up has been a great help since it's our version of the Hoover Dam that we all rely on for power." Clarie explained as she did want to go on with more. But by now she knew she would be taking up time for Murphy dropping the kids off at school "Anyways I'll let you go. Me and my team will be around so we can talk more. Oh and nice meeting you Murphy."

"You as well Clarie." Murphy simply said with a nod before turning around to drop the kids off school

As he did so, Clarie making her way back over to the truck her squad was waiting at with the cuffed punks in the back wondered what else would be happening. As lately she'd been getting an odd feeling something was gonna start up real soon.

Especially considering some of the rumors out there were seeming rather… dreadful. Especially the ones about dark creatures other than Grimm popping up lately. Oh well maybe it was best not to worry. Beside they were just rumors.

.

.

Right?

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Tired…so tired…

As Jack thought this through his mind slumbering against his arms. He wondered why he stayed up late last night even if he knew today was a school day. Then again maybe it was because he was excited from the news his dad was coming back soon. Not that he never saw the man, it's just he knew his father was always on call much to the older man irritation at time from what Jack could tell. Which helped him feel better whenever his dad had to leave suddenly for yet again another assignment.

Still that aside he was glad that the situation with those Tyger Claws had been dealt with. That and Officer Murphy giving him, and his friends a ride to school. Still Jack did wish he could have done more, it hadn't been too long since the school was formed and the new teachers taught them their subjects. One of them being hand to hand which was useful in this new version of the world. That and a few lessons from his dad, because Jack just thought knowing some kind of self defense was useful.

Oh well he couldn't complain much. He and the others got out safely, so again no real reason to-

.

ZAP!

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"Gah!" Jack yelped as he got a small quick shock on his hands. Everyone else in class taking notice and laughed a bit. While the teacher of this class addressed Jack

"Jack. Are my lesson boring or somethin?" A woman who looked about twenty four years old asked half amused, yet half sternly too as she crossed her arms

"Oh ah…ah no Miss Alvarez. Honest." Jack quickly answered as he knew that despite his teacher sounding a bit amused, she also was scary when she scolded one of them. Usually him when he was a bit more tired in the morning. Not his fault he had a hard time waking up or falling asleep early the night before

Speaking of his teacher was interesting for sure. The woman had been part of the world that Militech, some of the other corporations and the cyber implants came from. That and some of the gangs too like the Tyger Claws. Still she went by Judy Alvarez as her full name was, apparently she also had been much older before ending up in this new version of the world. Which was kind of scary at how she must have been as an older woman compared to now being younger again. That aside she was nice too once you got past all the at times bluntness and even some snark.

"Is that so. Well then you must know already the answer to my question. So tell me, what are some of the functions our BD devices are capable of and what is the process if your BD starts gonking out when in use still hm?" Judy questioned one of her more nicer students. Not that she didn't like the rest, she did but Jack caught her attention more. One because he sometimes fell asleep and not that she blamed him since he seemed the type to have a hard time slumbering. But two because the boy reminded her of her brother, so full of potential yet didn't know it yet

"Ah… um… ah… I don't know. Sorry Miss Alvarez." Jack tried to answered, but knew she could tell he hadn't heard. Didn't help when he heard some snickers from his fellow classmates. Thankfully Miss Alvarez cut in

"Quiet now. Anyways Jack since you didn't heard a lot my lesson today. I'm going to ask you stay after school. Got it?" Judy said sternly. Yet in a slightly kind manner as Jack just nodded. Then suddenly the bell rang "Ah guess were ran out of time. Well see you tomorrow kids, and Jack remember back here after school for a catch up. I'll know if you try to bail."

"Y-Yes ma'am." Jack simply replied back as some more snickers occurred as they and Jack himself left the class room

And as Jack did. The door closing behind him, he smiled just a bit that even if his teacher was a bit hard on him. It looked like she cared enough. Then again this new school formed for all grade from Kindergarten to Twelfth had been interesting so far as he stared down the now somewhat more familiar Hallways of United Coalition World Academia High or U.C.W.A.H for short. Still as Jack walked down for his periods lunch, he passed by many of the student from his original school and the students from the other worlds. He even heard some talks occurring here and there.

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"Whoa dude, that chrome of yours is wicked. Wish my mom would let get some but she'd kill me if I did."

"Yeah but dude. You got freaking lion claws, ears and a tail. That's freaking awesome if you ask me man!"

"Ha thank dude!"

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"T-Thanks again for the help with my homework. Been gettin easier for me since the wastes are part of this world now. But still hard to remember some of this stuff."

"No prob. Hehe I'm always glad to help. Sides my quirk lets me remember everything I read after one time. So you're in luck and hey maybe we could go out for a snack one day…heh if you would like that."

"Oh a-ah sure. But please tell it's n-not two hundred year old snack bits?"

"Haha you're funny!"

"W-Well I try."

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"I don't know still. You think it be a good to try becoming a huntress?"

"Take it from a huntress in training. You got the skill and the smarts for it. Like our buddy here, though why the rangers?"

"Look I just think they're cool and besides I'm more of the frontline type anyways. But hey if that doesn't work out. I hear the U.C.W Police Department is always looking for recruits."

"Well whatever us three do later on. Let's just make a promise to keep in touch. It hasn't been too long but you're both my best friends."

"Then it's a promise!"

"For sure."

"Aw I love you both. Ha besties!"

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"I'm telling you man. You should try and convince your mom to move away from the country side; and closer to the Urban sector. I don't know how you and your folks feel comfortable there with those crazies from that cult walking around. Hell I want to even offer you a appointment with Mister Vik when he's working his Rip doctor gig to get some needed chrome just in case. I'll pay even man, like for real me and rest here are just worried."

"I agree. I've been hearing some of those cult wackos have even been seen near the Center itself handing out flyers more and more. Which isn't bad and the cops usually can get them to leave, but I don't know. They just… give me the creeps. The canine side of me just ugh… swear it flares up every time."

"Not to add to the fact that we still need to worry about those Grimm, raiders and all other horrors outside the borders. Thank the lord we got our military keeping an eye on it. But I'll say this, not sure if it's true or not. But apparently if anything does start up. Our leaders have a plan to evacuate the Center, urban sector, country side and all the other territories. To near where the floating city of Atlas and the land of Menagerie meet up. I even heard they're finalizing deals for that very plan."

"I just hope it goes well. I maybe a Fanaus that was born in Valco. But even I know that those two places are very… tense with each other. Dust knows now how much more tense they are now being literal neighbors."

"Well either way guys. I appreciate the concern and don't worry. Me and my folks are feeling the same. Heck my pa is already trying to see if they have any residents near the Freeside Metroplex. Said he and ma always wanted to go to Vegas or well… I guess New Vegas now but never mind. Point is we even know things aren't right."

"Good to hear choom. Hey and if you do move to the Freeside Metroplex, make sure to invite us to a welcome home party. I've been wanting to see what New Vegas is like and the so called Kings gang. Sound interesting."

"Haha. I'll try to remember, now let's get some grub before all the warm food is taken."

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.

Yep just normal chats, though the last one did worry Jack a bit. Then again considering all the new dangers of this world had to offer. He honestly didn't think those Eden Gate people were so bad. Besides he and his friends saw a few service announcements with that John Seed guy. He seemed nice enough, maybe a bit too enthusiastic but harmless.

Either way he needed to make it to lunch. The other would be waiting for him since they share the same lunch period. Then he'd probably hear Lori and Carlos talk about their class on marksmanship with Miss Armstrong, and how adorable the dog she always brought with her named Boomer was. That and he'd probably also hear Raf and Alexi talking about the newest subject that Professor Oobleck had done today. Though Jack swore they were the only two in the whole school that caught every word he said since the man was the personification of a coffee high. That and probably hear Sam about his lessons today in Mister Viktors class for Rip Doctor, and Cybernetics 101. Heck he always heard something about Miss Midnight too.

Either way Jack was happy that things were going well so far now after a while back when all their worlds became one. For now though food was on his mind and ugh… that right he needed to make sure to stay awake too in Professor Ports class. He still had no idea why he was teaching at his age since the old man usually talk a lot about his days as a Hunter instead of the actual lessons. But oh well.

At least his stories were entertaining enough to listen too…

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Today was... odd so far…

At least that's what one would say if you were David Martinez. A somehow now resurrect individual.

Honestly he was catholic thanks to his mom, no a great if barley one but catholic and had his doubts at times. He always thought that was normal. But now… well he didn't have much doubts of the afterlife or the supernatural in general considering he was alive again. Though that said, despite the oddness of this; there were definitely benefits to this whole resurrection thing.

"So David. What's the plan my choom?" A young woman asked curiously and with some pep in her system as David smiled a bit at that. Looking back a bit seeing some of his... guests

The one who spoke was probably his best choom. Rebecca who despite coming back to life and being told of HOW she died as she didn't seem to remember like he had. Seemed ever so chipper and ready to shoot anything in their way. Just because she wanted too and because she was a bit pissed off still at how she died. Said it was 'Total fucking bullshit. That limp dick borg is gonna die next time I see him!' Her words by the letter.

Still like Rebecca, the others with him had also been resurrected and much to his joy. Most of them all were members of his old crew. Aside from one.

From the start there was his old boss/mentor Maine who had his left arm over his outputs, Dorio shoulders. Who didn't mind one bit as she let him. That and the fact they both remember exactly how they died so they said screw the subtly which to be honest had little beforehand. But again screw it and just flaunt it without a care in the world. Helped too that it seem Maine cyberpsychosis was all but gone now somehow.

Next was obviously Rebecca and her brother Pilar. Both not even remembering their own deaths. Then again maybe that was because of how quick they had been. Still it had been the first time Rebecca had shown any affectionate love in front of them. As she ran up to Pilar and gave him a big hug. Pilar returning it back as both seemed happy beyond belief to see each other. Then Rebecca kicked Pilar in the balls and screamed at him that he died before she could have killed him for always being a perverted no good gonk. Then Pilar just laughed despite his own pain. Still it seemed the two did love each other as much as siblings could even if they argued at times, threatened though more on Rebeccas part or mocked each other.

Then came Falco and Kiwi. Falco the only one who confirmed he'd died an old man and remembered the exact time, and day he died. He'd also said things had changed actually for the better in the later years. But he wouldn't get into it saying he hoped 'He' could explain better if they found the man. Whoever that was considering Falco was the one who provided a set of coordinated for whoever they were going to now. Then Kiwi who now had a mouth instead of just the mask covering where her mouth should have been. Though to be honest it had been a bit tense at first with her David admitted. At least for him, Rebecca and Falco. But Kiwi for once actually apologized and begged even for their forgiveness. The only reason that he, Rebecca and Falco even forgave her is because Kiwi actually cried. Like legitimately cried and was blubbering mess for a bit say along the lines of 'Betrayed my family' and 'Betrayed my little girl'. They all had a feeling who Kiwis little girl was.

Speaking of members. Everyone, especially David hoped Lucy was okay. They all had some odd feeling she was alive and fine. But that didn't make them worry less. Again David especially considering that was his output, his girl.

Either way this was all strange so far, so very strange considering. Still David knew he had to tell Rebeccaa something if anything.

"Aside from meeting whoever this guy Falco knows. Can't say, sorry Becca." Daivd answered as he hoped that maybe once they got to their destination this friend of Falco's would help out

"Well whatever happens next. I'm simply just happy to be back with you mijo." A woman from Davids right happily said

Ah yes the one last thing that came out of this, the last of his guests. Much to his joy it was another woman who happened to be his mother, Gloria.

The woman here beyond confused on what even happened when she awoken. Why David seemed a bit older and why Maine, along with his crew even knew her son. It had been a quick explanation and Gloria wasn't exactly happy with most of it. But she let that be as she was more than happy to be with her son again. All in all it was the best reunion anyone could have asked for with a relative. Still David smiled as he looked to his mother.

"Same here mama. Same here." David stated happily before looking back to Falco " Hey Falco are you sure this guy is trustworthy?"

"Like I said before. He sure is." Falco answered calmly like before

"Then why the hell ain't telling us more old man?" Pilar questioned seeming calmer then he usually was and bit tense. Then again considering what he'd been told about his death he may have had a drastic change in attitude for the most part

"I'm not that… never mind. Look only reason I ain't tellin is because none of ya would believe me if I did and why I know my friend is trustworthy." Falco explained crossing his arms

"Try us." Kiwi simply chimed in as it couldn't be any more insane then coming back to life

"Yeah come on Falco. We all just got rezed. Ain't no damn way whatever you say could shock us." Manie exclaimed as Dorio simply nodded in agreement

"Fine then. Well would ya believe me if I said by the time I died Night City had become the global capital of the world. That and my friend came back a few years after some shit he dealt with and that he started a revolution that ended with the major corps all burning down aside from Militech who backed this up. Then having what remained being Trauma Team, some of the smaller food and home bases corps being reformed into a humanitarian force. Which helped with Night City becoming said global capital and by the time of his death a few years before me. The world as we knew it had become a Eden of peace, cyberware and comradery?" Falco answered stopping in his tracks as to explain which the other did too. Though by the time he was done, everyone even Gloria looked at the man like he'd gone insane. Falco just chuckled "Told ya. Hard to believe."

"No offense Falco dude but… ya on fucking drugs or your brain still mush from being old when ya offline. Cause you are talking some crazy ass fucking shit there." Rebecca asked. No hint of teasing or sarcasm as she was for once rather dumbfounded

"Yeah you too gonk still?" Pilar asked next as he was very dumbfounded, ironically he and his sister Becca shared a simialir face of dumbfoundness

"No I ain't on drug and I'm NOT that old. Sides I still was plenty smart by time I passed." Falco argued a bit as he had expected this reaction and eyed the others "Thoughts?"

"Hate to say it. But I agree with Rebecca and Pilar. You sound crazy, sure maybe you lived to see old age. But what you're saying does not seem possible." Doire answered first as it sounded very out of her realm of possibilities

"Well much I don't want to say it myself. But I kind of believe you there Falco." Maine exclaimed as he noticed the siblings and his girls seemed surprise by that "What we came back to life for hells sakes. Not thinking what Falco told us couldn't happen. But at the same time I still have doubts."

"Same. Considering how were here now and how moms alive too. I'm more incline to believe it." David said as it did sound crazy. But again considering currently what had occurred he was more on the believing side of things. Then he eyed Kiwi "Kiwi?"

"I'm staying neutral here until I see some evidence is all. So don't drag me into this." Kiwi answered as that was fair

"Well I for one believe you. Besides anything sounds better than how the world was when I… well died." Gloria said as she was still reeling from the fact that she died. But just being back with her son was good enough

"Well at least some of you believe. That said we should be closing in on my friends location. That and get away from this damn heat…" Falco said as he slumped a bit

"Yeah…" Everyone else muttered as they slumped a bit too considering

Oh yes. As you see the group had awakened not just anywhere but apparently in some god forsaken desert. With only a long weathered asphalt road to lead them straight ahead. Which coincidently was in the direction Falco's friend was at.

Not to mention though that the group had passed by the occasional burnt out cars of unknown models, skeletons, boarded up or straight up ruined houses and abandoned buildings. Which indicated the group quickly that they weren't at home anymore. Especially the other reason for this belief.

"Don't even get me started on those fucking roaches. I'm mean shit that was insane and disgusting. Glad we shot those little fuckers up." Rebecca chimed in with a shiver. As if there was one thing she was scared of it was bugs, primarily cockroaches "Gah. Shivers me the fuck up thinking of those oversized pests."

"Can't say I blame you there. I ain't scared but dog sized roaches is where I draw the damn line." Maine exclaimed

"So the fucking large ass Geckos didn't freak you out. Cause they freaked me the hell out, specially since they stood upright." Pilar stated as she shivered himself along with Kiwi and Gloria at least at that early encounter "Creepy ass little bastards."

"Least some of the supplies we found made it worth it. Especially the weapons." Dorio chimed in with a small smile at that silver lining at least

Yep apparently they weren't alone. As the group at some of the small ruins they came across also had some creatures that called it home. One with dog sized cockroaches that everyone ended up stomping to death. Then Geckos that stood upright and attacked them. That second attack was thankfully easier to deal with considering they had new guns and melee weapons by then that they found after killing the roaches.

Speaking of the weapons they had were odd ones, old looking and yet advanced. Some more than others since one fired plasma and another lasers. While the melee weapons varied too.

For starters David had tucked away in a pocket inside his jacket a simple grey steel colored pistol that had an underbarrel torch to it and was in decent condition. He found some ammo that went with the gun labeled 10mm so he just called the gun a 10mm Pistol. Meanwhile in another pocket inside his coat he simple founded a serrated knife that looked made from combat. So he called it a combat knife.

Next when it came to Pilar. He tucked in one of his pockets a pair of spiked brass knuckles which he said would make cool ass arms quote 'Even preem times eighty!' when he sported them in the next fight. Meanwhile he happily had in his right hand still what could only be called an old world retro gun that fired freaking plasma bolts out of it. I looked so old yet was more advanced than some of the gun back in their own world. That and it was loud too, still it also had the word defender scratched in on the right of it for some reason. So the name given was the Plasma Defender while Pilar nicknamed the thing… ugh… the 'Goo Maker'. Fucking seriously Pilar?!

Perverted gonk aside. Next was Dorio who had strapped to her left side was an old worn machete. While strapped on her back was an also very old timey yet advanced rifle. One that shot lasers in singles. The name simply given to it was the Laser Rifle since that what it was.

Kiwi herself had strapped to her back a fire axe that looked like it needed some sharpening soon, but was still effective for the time being. While in her hands she held an old looking bolt action rifle that fired 308. Rounds. But for simplicities sake Kiwi just called it a hunting rifle and though not use to using one, was just fine with it too as she preferred to keep her distance.

Then came Maine who was very happy with what he found. As strapped to his back under a backpack of ammo was what could only be called a sledgehammer on roids or a super sledge as was nicknamed by the man. Speaking of that, the backpack of ammo was connected to a freaking 5mm minigun that looked badass already and on Maine was just super badass. But he also was one of the only two to have three weapons. As he had holstered in his right pocket a fancy looking pistol that shot 12.7 rounds. Hence the name the 12.7mm Pistol.

The other who had three weapons was Rebecca. Who had in her hands much to her joy a shotgun. An old 12 gauge pump action shotgun used for hunting and a gun that Rebecca had always wanted to have in her possession if only for the fact she thought it was a badass old gun from back when. Now she did and loved it as it was nicked named by the others the Hunting Shotgun. While Rebecca named it 'Guts the Second'. Meanwhile on her back was another weapon she liked even if it was a one shot then reload. It was grenade launcher or better named for its more long range appearance. The Grenade Rifle. Though strapped to her back too was a freaking chainsaw. Really a chainsaw and no one had the guts to say no to that. Then again considering it was Rebecca who had now a chainsaw. Probably was for the best to just let her have it.

Then came Falco who happily took what he found to be a cowboys best friend. A .45-70 Gov't hunting revolver. One he'd shot a few times as a young boy and loved it. They were a rare piece back in his world and now he had one. Hell it even had a slot to add scope to if need be. He couldn't be happier as the weapon was holstered in his right pocket, though he also had strapped under his belt on his left side was a bowie knife. Again Falco felt like a real cowboy now, he just needed the hat and he was good.

Finally came Gloria who though had lived in Night City and knew of all the dangers there. Had never actually been in a fight or even used a weapon. She was mostly against that stuff having hated it from when she was very little. BUT… that said she even knew she needed to keep herself safe. That and everyone else, especially David asked her to at least have something on her just in case. That said she found a baseball bat with some old tape wrapped around handle, one that was strapped to her back currently. While in her hands was a weapon that seemed a bit much for her. That being an Assault Rifle or maybe an M-16 from those documents on the wars before the fall of the old net. Still in everyone else's defense for the pick. Since she never fired a gun, might as well give her one that fired a bunch of bullets that could hit something eventually. Then just a single shot weapon that could miss.

So yeah despite them just waking up, everyone here was well aware that there were some dangers to have. Thankfully aside from Gloria. Everyone else here were professional mercs or Edgerunners.

"True. Though Gloria you good with yours. I know you said you've never used one, but do we need to worry?" Kiwi asked as she smiled a bit and was kind of glad to have a mouth now

"Nada. I may have not ever used a gun or gotten into a fight. But I'm a quicker learner." Gloria said as she patted her sons shoulders "Sides my late husband taught me some things about how to handle a gun. If only to keep myself and little mijo here safe."

"Mama…" David muttered though blushed a bit when he heard the girls at least chuckle at that. Then he heard something he'd found too and placed on his wrist, start to beep "Huh guess this thing does work better than I thought it would. Pretty preem."

Ah right the last item that David was lucky enough to find in that stock pile of goodies with the dog sized cockroaches. Seriously someone must have been a prepper there. That aside the item David found was bulky if not interesting enough. As it some kind of wrist mounted computer that was called a Pip-Boy. Dark tanned in color it came with a comfy glove and leather padding for when he clamped it around his arm. The thing quickly turned on not even seconds after he did so. David again had to admit it was retro, cool and he found the little guy mascot funny enough. That said he showed it to everyone else and they found interesting too. Though that's also when they alongside David learned that this Pip-boy could also manage someone's storage somehow, could keep tabs on notes, had a radio, a Geiger counter, could keep tabs on now Davids health and most importantly had a map function. Which is what Falco used to at the time hopefully pray that his coordinates worked which they did. Which was why they were even going the way they were now, aside from having no real other choice but semantics. And it was thanks to Davids Pip-Boy which he'd grown fond of already.

"Got that right Davey. Thing looks old as hell though, but works. So we gotta see if we can tune up that little guy. Seems like he's crying out for one ya know?" Rebecca mused with a smirk as the others chuckled or just nodded if only to keep their minds off the ever burning heat of this damned desert

"Heh. Well can't argue with that Rebecca and already got a few good-" David began to say. Before suddenly his Pip-Boy began to make a 'Beep, Beep' sound "Oh hey look at that. I think were right next to our target. It about…huh to our right."

As David said that a little confused. Everyone else turned their heads to the right slowly and David did last as they all saw of all things a gate that lead down to what seemed like a large farm of sorts with a few barns, a house and well it just looked nice considering it was smacked dabbed in the desert.

"Huh…." David just muttered as he rubbed his eyes

"How did we not see this?" Gloria asked out loud as pretty much everyone else muttered that too

"Honestly by this point let's just chalk it up to how sudden everything was, plus the heat from the sun. Okay?" Kiwi suggested as everyone just silently nodded in agreement "Let's go in now and meet this friend of Falco's. I just need something to drink and eat. Anything by this point honestly."

"Good point beside I'm star-" David began to say only to be cut off moments later

"Hoha. What we got here, bunch of gonks trying to break into the home!" The stereotypical voice of a drill sergeant screamed out all of sudden. As the recently resurrected group took notice of this someone or something appear between them and the gate to the homestead ahead

This thing was robot, but one that no one in this group even could say they knew off. As it look really odd to them. Why well mostly because for one it was floating ball with three long appendages with eyes on them, a thruster keeping it up and three long leg like appendages. One with a pincher, one with a gun of sorts and another with a flamethrower. That mixed with a military green and one was for sure. This was guard bot made for war. Though only Kiwi raised a brow noticing the terminology the bot just used, that and maybe Dorio but she didn't show it if at all if she did. Still the guard bot seemed ready to attack if needed as he floated closer to David since he was the one leading the group.

"Well bucko. Choom or not?" The guard bot asked as finally everyone else took notice of the bots wording

"Hold on did you just say-" David began to say. Only the guard bot cut him off

"I'm askin the questions here gonk head. Now answer or else I'mma fuck you up like a corpo taking a famers farm away!" The guard bot threatened as David was doing his best to NOT yell back this time at least. Considering they were in uncharted territory

Unfortunately, Rebecca came in to have Davids back of all times…

"Hey bucket head. Why don't you piss off and let us pass!" Rebecca yelled narrowing her eyes a bit

"Ah fuck…" Maine, Dorio, Kiwi and Falco muttered while Pilar watched with interest. Gloria meanwhile was doing a little prayer that things wouldn't possibly get worse

"Eh. Kid back off and watch your tongue. Sheesh." The guard bot sternly scolded as Rebeccas right eye twitched a bit as she aimed her shotgun at the bot

"THE FUCK DID YOU SAY ASSHOLE. I'M AN ADULT WOMAN BUCKET HEAD, YOU WANNA GET SHOT!" Rebecca screamed as no one. No ONE called her a kid, she was just short and petite there was nothing wrong with that for fucks sakes

"TRY IT SHORTY. AIN'T GONNA CHANGE THE FACT YOU'RE LOLI BAIT!" The guard bot screamed back as Rebecca was seriously about to pull the trigger. Only reason was that she still had enough sense to not temp fate considering their circumstances. But boy did she want to just kill this stupid asshole robot, she wanted to do it so badly

Thankfully unknown to the group or the guard bot. It seemed the owner of this place, being a man finally came out as he stopped behind the guard bot before addressing the machine seeing the situation playing out.

"Ey. Mitch chill, preciate it but I think these folks are friends." The owner of this place calmly. If not loudly said as the guard bot looked back to his master

"Sir are you sure?" The guard bot or Mitch asked a bit more concerned as the man smiled and patted the bots chaise

"Yep. Sides So Mi, my ma, the kids and the others need help with the garden. They got Scorpion course but they always need the extra hands. So can ya do that Mitch?" The man asked as the guard bot took a moment or so before answering back

"Yes sir!" Mitch said before facing the group once more "I'll be watching you all. Specially you loli bait."

"Gee lucky me… hope you get scrapped cock sucker." Rebecca simply said flipping off Mitch

"Little…" Mitch grumbled as he hovered away. Though the sounds of faint grumbles could still be heard mostly

"Heh. Well if you folks are done with Mitch. I have a good hunch were you're all from and who at least one of you are. Looking at you Falco my man." The man stated calmly as Falco simply smirked back with a thumbs up

The others realizing who this must be. Got a much better look at the man now and he did stick out a bit compared to the many who used to live in Night City.

This man was somewhat taller than David, Pilar and Falco at least. He was Caucasian if they went by his skin tone and crew cut with the top grown out a bit more and a beard. Both blonde in color. While his face and eyes had black markings on them and that lead down to his neck. He wore a pair of leather pants, brown leather boots, on old Samurai shirt and finally sported a pair of yellow tinted aviators that hung a bit down on his nose. Which showed the most oddest feature on him. His eyes. For his eyes were a dark grey with white irises and connected were two lines of wiring that must have connected to his brain. Like he'd been blind or maybe born blind. Either way despite being Falco's friend. They all felt something was off about this guy. Mainly that he was VERY dangerous. Still Daivd took the initiative to reply back.

"Yeah. You're Falco's choom then…huh?" David asked back as the man nodded which helped David feel a bit more at ease as he smiled at his mom and crew to reassure them. That and to get one last confirmation from Falco who smiled that this man was indeed the friend he'd been on about. Knowing this now David felt a lot at ease now as he stared back at the man "If that's so. Guess that makes us chooms now to huh?"

"Damn right kid." The man quipped in a friendly manner

"Heh. Anyways before we talk more, what is your name choom?" David asked as that had been one thing Falco hadn't told them. Mainly because they wouldn't recognize the name so what would have been the point

The man in turn took a moment, before relaxing his stance as he crossed his arm and smirking back at David in a friendly manner.

"I'm V." V simply said. Before turning around and making his way back to the home

But as he did. He motioned the others to follow and after a few seconds when Falco did just like that. The others followed behind. Though to be honest when it came to them as a group, Gloria was the only one wondering what else this new world had to offer.

But she could wonder about that later. Since now she had all the time to think on it and for that she was truly grateful.

---

Elsewhere…

Inside the largest building in the middle of what was now the living city that inhabited all who lived within the borders. Was the building simply known as The Center. Why it was called that was rather simple and well known to all who lived in the city.

It was because this is what housed the governments armed forces who wanted to stay there and officials who did what they could to keep; and improve the lives of everyone. Speaking of, currently a few members of the Centers council, three being men and the other two women. Were here discussing news and future plans. All of them standing around a holo table as it displayed their city, the sectors. Their cities frontlines/ borders and the outlands.

"So what the news today?" A man asked as he had his arms crossed "Cause I've been hearing rumors that we got the Tyger's at least trying to come back in the Urban Sector and that does not sit well with me."

The man that spoke was a dark skinned man wearing a nice blue suit that had a bit of his gut showing under the tuck shirt. This man was Agent Willam Fowler of his world United States Government and was one of the first to step up in this leadership position since he was technically the highest ranking member of his governmental forces when they first arrived. He wasn't happy about it, but he knew someone had to step up and he might as well.

To Agent Fowlers right stood a woman who also was darker skinned woman. Who wore currently a simple red dress and brown fur line jacket with the sleeves pushed up to her usual attire. Oddest thing about her was that she had a pair of tiger shaped ears on her head and markings on her that looked like tiger strips. This was the once wary if nearing hostile Sienna Khan. The now ex-leader of the White Fang who went into hiding after she was nearly killed by… that backstabber she once called a friend. Now she was simply the leader at the moment for the Fanaus of the once island they resigned on. At least until Ghira and his wife were found. She hoped soon as she wanted to say a few good apologies to them.

Meanwhile to the left of Fowler was the second of the women here that reluctantly took a leadership role here. Hated it, but knew she needed to considering her knowledge of her own world and her people. That and the fact she had the guts to keep at it even if things may or to her would spiral out of control. She was from the scatter remnants of Night City and its once biggest Fixer, Rouge Amendiares. Again a woman who didn't really care for her role now as one of the cities leaders. But knew she needed to if to make sure everything from her world stayed well either in control or was stomped out hopefully soon. Oh and she like many of the older folks from her world were now much younger. Like she was and though still a bit unnerved by it, Rouge didn't mind much either.

Meanwhile on other side of the table and across from Sienna was the second of the men here. A man from Sienna world now fused to this world in a major way and was also one of the reluctant leaders as he already was the General of the Atlas Military. He was General James Ironwood. He was quietly waiting to give his report and avoid eyeing Sienna too much as she seemed to be doing the same for some reason. Though a glance or two did occur and they seemed a bit awkward at times if not full of remorse or something like that.

Finally to Ironwoods right, across from Fowler was a military man from the NCR of the Mojave Wastelands or well now the Outer Lands. His name was Colonel James Hsu. He was one of the few that didn't love or hate his new position. But knew he had the experience to do so and since he was technically in charge of all the NCR units anyways even before the incident a while back and hadn't hear from his superiors. He felt he was right enough for this new role.

All aside, they and the rest of their group not here were doing what they could to make sure everything kept stable. That said it was Rouge who answered back first when it came to Fowlers questions.

"Cut the attitude Fowler. Think any of us were happy as shit when we heard the news?" Rouge stated as she crossed her arms and sighed "Fucking Tyger's. Didn't think those bastards had the guts to try and come back so soon. But fuck me I guess that's what I get for being hopeful for once."

"Ahem… crass words aside this news in general isn't good one bit. So trust us Fowler we need want answers too." Hsu exclaimed before looking at Ironwood and Sienna "Any words on your ends. Nothing out of the ordinary?"

"At least for my side. None of my scouts have notice anything, aside from the occasional Grimm and the few Raiders that thought it would be smart enough to try and make camp there." Ironwood answered first as even if it was a few dead raiders so far. That didn't help him feel at ease at what could come next possibly

"Same here. Though we did find Malestrom trying to make trade deals with the now hidden White Fangs. My people were able to stop them, but those that remained committed suicide before we could take them in." Sienna answered as she sighed too for a moment. Before continuing on "Speak of. What about those cult nut jobs. Gate something…"

"Edens Gate. That's them Sienna." Fowler answered as he crossed his arms

"Stupid ass name if you ask me… still Sienna asked a good question. So any word on them. I mean those folks are bat shit insane from what I've heard about what they preach." Rouge asked now as she found those Eden Gates people unsettling and that was saying a lot considering her previous life "Can't we just arrest them on suspicion. I mean come on they're making a statue to that gonk head leader of theirs!"

"Haven't they just started on the feet of that statue?" Hsu questioned as he hadn't kept mind of them since he was more worried about the legion, raiders and gangs that he knew were teaming up even if proof had been barely found of that

"That they have Hsu. That they have, still at least we we're able to get control state wise of the country side. We even are trying to get support to have a garrison there of our troops near Hope County just in case the Eden Gates folks do finally try something." Fowler explained as he felt some relief considering some of the other council members wouldn't be too fond of that idea "Glad a few of members aren't here right now to hear this."

"True that. I'm not a fan of that shit usually myself, but hey I can see the practicality of it. Beside of few of their more notable community members do work at the school. So maybe we could have them help us sway the others. That or at least get some good blackmail material. Not my usual MO but gotta do what we gotta do." Rouge mused as the other just sighed a bit hearing that

"Old habits die hard huh?" Sienna asked as Rouge just shrugged not denying it. But she let it be as she could tell things were still pretty tense from the discussion. So she decided to brighten it up a bit "Anyways. Gloom and doom aside, there is good news. Like for one I've been told that the school is officially done being constructed so we can move the equipment to bolster our frontline bases on our borders."

"That's great to hear." Ironwood stated with a small smile as the others nodded in agreement there. Though Rouge remembered something and decided to put her two cents in

"Not just that and I can't believe I'm saying this. But seems Commissioner Groden and Rivers have enough manpower to start having patrols that aren't with military personal." Rouge added in as she had meet the two men. Rivers she knew of offhand since he was from her world and had heard of him, Groden she liked enough as the man from first interactions alone "Then again. Guess we gotta thank Sumdac and his company for supplying the robots during the first month of this insanity."

"Not to mention Mister Wayne. Man helped a lot with the development of construction units." Ironwood added in as he and the others knew well of one of their more wealth allies habits of spending money on anything that wasn't weapons related

"Yeah. If more corpo's in my world had acted like him. Maybe things wouldn't have been so bad." Rouge mused as Bruce Wayne was an interesting one for a rich boy

"Actually speaking of some of our more notable citizens. Where are the other council members. This seems important enough for us to be all here." Ironwoods asked curious since he had found it odd that it was the five of them here currently

"Despite that though Ironwoods. We fine enough for this, besides we can just update them later. That said they do have other duties too. So they're all just busy." Hsu answered as Ironwoods just nodded that he understood. Though sensing there wasn't much else to talk about. He decided to call it short "Anyways if no one else has anything to say. Maybe we should-"

"Actually I do have one thing to bring up and I think it needs to be addressed. Chi-Chi bring it in now please." Sienna interjected as she snapped her fingers before seconds later some strange robot came in

The robot or Chi-Chi was from the would Hsu and his people had inhabited called a Protecton. A average sized robot with bult legs, arms, three prong claws and an oval shaped body with a domed head of glass that covered the internals of it. This particular one was a custom painted one Sienna had found when this madness had all started. Now it was colored in simialir colors she sported and even had the tiger stripes painted on it. That and a custom voice to the usual masculine monotone one it came with. That and it had its arms a metal cage covered by a cloth.

"Where shall I put this Lady Sienna?" Chi-Chi asked in a mature feminine tone now as she stopped right next to Sienna

"Just on the table please and thank you Chi-Chi." Sienna thanked as she patted the metallic shoulder of her Protecton

"I live to serve my lady. I shall leave you be and prepare dinner." Chi-Chi replied back as she began making her way out

"I will never understand why people from your world think those things are dangerous." Rouge remarked

"Trust me Rouge. If you ever are stuck in room with a dozen of those things, you'll quickly see why." Hsu answered as he eyed the covered cage "What's in there Sienna?"

"Simple. My last bit of news. Behold!" Sienna exclaimed as she pulled the cloth off and what was under got quite the reaction out of the other four

.

.

"The fuck is that thing?"

"By Lincolns top hat!"

"I'm giving it a seven on the creepy scale…"

"That is… something."

.

.

What it was, was a small stubby creature with beady yellow eyes, arms, legs, antennas and claws. That and the fact its body was pitch black in coloration added to the creepy factor. Oddly it was also docile looking at the moment. Though the small hole in its head was odd.

"Yes feast your eyes on what I will call… a Shade!" Sienna cheered as she did find this creepy to her. But cool too in a weird way, though she did notice the others giving her an odd look "What?"

"Why Shade?" Fowler questioned

"Simple my fellow. You see we noticed one of these little buggers crawling around our area a while back. My men took out most, but this one we caught. How well if you see the hole in the head that's how." Sienna exclaimed as she pointed to the hole and the others looked closer. Seeing that yeah it was a hole that was healing up quite well. Though also seemed to have some left over residue of what the people from Sienna and Ironwoods world called Dust "And yes as you can see this thing had been basically lobotomized."

"With Dust. How does that work?" Ironwood questioned as Sienna smirked

"Well not to be prideful. But one of my scouts was trying out a new kind of dust infused dagger she forged. Wanted to see how it worked and when she stabbed this little bugger in the head. It got stuck for a few seconds. But a few seconds enough this little guy stopped trying to kill her. No idea why it worked like that, but it seems our Dust has some kind of calming effect on this guy's kind whatever they are. Oh and for why Shade. Apparently these creatures are made of or nearly pure shadows as they sunk into the ground and even exploded into small black clouds of smoke when killed. So hence the name Shades." Sienna explained like a giddy school kid doing show and tell. Though she had more to say "That said. You may not like the next bit of news."

"Hit it us with it. I'm sure it can't be that bad right?" Fowler said as Sienna almost sighed at such words but let it be as she smiled sadly

"If only. If only." Sienna replied back. Before she pulled out her scroll and took a moment to find something. Then when she did she turned it over to the group to see "Here we are. See yourself my friends."

As the others looked. They went a little wide eyed seeing of all things in what they assumed was around the area Sienna's land and people resigned in. But also in an area none of they knew of, but saw a giant wood gate. Over it a sign that said 'Traverse Town'. It was very odd to see as the others took a few more moments. Before Sienna put her scroll away.

"Yeah… let's just say a few of the Shades tried to escape but were chased and killed. But not before my people saw this gate that lead to whatever this Traverse Town is. Odd too because it was in an area no one, not even I had been to before." Sienna answered in a somewhat worried tone

"Have you been able to open it at all or contact anyone from the other side of the gate?" Rouge asked as Seinna sighed some more

"We have tried to open it. But no luck and before you asked. We used explosive and even attempted to burn the gate at one point. But no luck, not even a scratch. For contact also a no, but I can't say I'm not a little worried." Sienna answered

"Then how about I lend some Atlas Knights over to keep an eye on the place. Make an outpost until the gates either open themselves or we find a way to open them. I'm more than willing to do so." Ironwood exclaimed as he gave Sienna a half smile "Please. Let me do this Sienna."

"…. Okay. My people might not be too happy about it, but okay." Sienna answered seeming a bit happier now

"And I think we can spare some of our troops. Right boys?" Rouge remarked as she eyed Fowler and Hsu

"We should be able to. That and Sienna could you maybe see if you can get a few of those hunters; and huntresses to help out. Same with you Ironwood." Hsu answered as the two nodded that they would

"So… guess we just have to keep an eye out for more of these… things then. Right?" Fowler asked even if it was obvious "Great… like we didn't have enough issues with Raiders, gangs, killer robots, mutated animals, giant crazy robot animals, Grimm, etc. Plus more probably beyond our borders and the outlands."

"That's just life now Fowler. Get used to it." Rouge mused as she sighed some eyeing the strange creature "Well folks. I'm think everyone else will be just as happy to hear about this huh?"

Fowler, Hsu, Sienna and Ironwoods couldn't help but sigh at the sarcastic questions from Rouge as if anything they'd all be various amounts of concern, planning and just talking/ arguing like usually it was when they all were in a meeting.

But like Rouge said. It was just how life was now and they better get used to it…

---

"What's up U.C.W citizens. Its THREEEE DOG, Bow wow. Coming to you live from our refurbished GNR Radio station. That's Galaxy News Radio in case ya forgot. Newssss time everyone..."

As the Radio went on. At one location a group of teens were listening at a park. As most now knew of the Radio Jockey Three Dog. Most of the teens and kids though for an adult he was pretty cool and fun to listen to.

But they weren't the only ones listening...

.

.

.

"Now coming from the Center itself, looks like we got some reports of Tyger Claws, raiders, maelstrom and more of those bad cats coming in. Specially those creepy ass Grimm. Remember people, see anything like that roaming around. You better get your ass out of there and find the closets patrol to handle it."

In the bar called the Afterlife, many of the patrons were either drinking or listening to the radio broadcast. Some found Three Dog odd or even annoying. But most liked listening to the man, specially the bartender Claire who found the man amusing even if her boss Rouge found him irritating at best.

.

.

.

"In other news our folks in the frontline of our border are kicking ass and taking names. For those in our arm services we thank you all and stay safe!"

As this played on from a radio inside an old ruined metro. The echoes of the radio going on, the sounds of intense battle could be heard too.

As from afar men and women that made the bulk of the armed forces of the U.C.W, and were the frontline protectors or the cities borders were gunning down creatures known as Feral Ghouls. Along with even some of those called Grimm.

"Graw!" A feral ghoul growled as it charged it attackers alongside its feral brethren and even some Grimm who made a home down in these old metro tunnels. Oddly the two species seem to get along if anything, which was a bit worrying

"Take time fuckers!" A U.C.W Militech solider screams firing off few rounds alongside his group of forty and dozens of turrets too

Yep, a normal day like always on the frontlines…

.

.

.

"Now I've also heard rumors that apparently those Eden Gate wackos are starting to build up a monument. No kidding a freaking monument to their oh so benevolent Leader Joseph Seed. Ha, wonder if he's compensating for something?"

The radio went on as around this one was a group of folks in Hope County. Some living there and others visiting, and listening in. All of them laughing a bit at the jab towards Joseph Seed who they too found off putting. That and downright had a feeling he had more planned for them in the later future.

.

.

.

"And now lastly for the moment before we go to the music. This is a public radio announcement. Remember folks, if you see Grimm do not and I mean do NOT try and befriend them. They're wild animals and most if not nearly all want nothing more than to make you their next meal. If you try to though then don't be surprised if you end up a pile of bones and Grimm crap. Oh and if you ever mistake a Fanaus for a Grimm, you deserve to get eaten cause that's just plain rude."

Many listened in from their car radios, bars, mobile radios, phone apps and in general anywhere a radio was being play at. Since this station in this area at least aside from a few other stations near the New Vegas area and beyond even if one could find the signal. Still for Three Dog who despite how some liked, didn't care for or were indifferent to. Was still popular ever since this madness all began. Speaking of…

"And now some music, and this one you can thank June Darby for donating to the station. June baby, thanks a bunch!"

.

Wouldn't it be nice if we were older?

Then we wouldn't have to wait so long!

And wouldn't it be nice to live together,
In the kind of world where we belong?

You know it's gonna make it that much better.
When we can say goodnight and stay together...

.

.

.

---

Elsewhere for the last time. Somewhere quaint and really cool….

That was what the girls of team RWBY felt as they sat in the seats of their spacecraft the Viel Shadow. A sleek yet large ship that had enough armaments to keep them just in case they ran into trouble. Though this ship was to be their home away from home if they needed to just stop traveling or had to repair the ship.

Oh yes this ship came with its own cargo bay, kitchen, bathrooms, bed rooms with their own showers and much more that the girls along with Dante, Guin, Donald and Goofy had yet to explore fully yet. Though Ikail seemed like she knew of this ship model and currently was making that fact known to everyone else as she was currently flying the ship. Primarily to teach Doanld and Goofy how to handle it properly.

"And I can see why you were having trouble with the turning boys. The wheel is too stiff for either of you. The only reason I can do this so easily is because I'm used to it." Ikail exclaimed

"Huh guess that makes sense. We'll have to see if Horace and Clarabelle can send us some parts to loosen it a bit if that would work." Donald said as he was happy that Ikail was teaching him and Goofy

"I'm sure it would Donald." Ikail replied as she gave the duck man a smile

"Thanks again for teaching us Ikail." Goofy simply added in as Ikail gave him a smile too. Then went back to explaining it mainly to Doanld as Goofy looked back seeing the girls watching a bit from behind. He moved over to them a few moments later "Hiya girls. You wanting to learn about this too?"

"Well for me and Blake at least yes. But maybe we should wait till Ikail's done explain it to you and Donald." Weiss explained

"Shucks. Ya sure, I'm positive you could learn alongside us right now if ya wanted." Goofy asked kindly

"Nah it's fine Goofy. We can wait, still thanks for offering." Yang thanked as she appreciated the offer and the others did too

"Well if ya say so girls. Hey we're Dante and Guin at?" Goofy wondered

"I think they said they wanted to look around the ship. They seemed the most curious here." Blake answered

"Yeah but maybe two of us should check on them. Make sure they aren't going to break anything." Ruby suggested as the girls couldn't help but agree "I mean no offense to them, but they don't seem the most tech-tolerant."

And as if by some hint of comedic fate. Suddenly the girls and Goofy flinched when they heard the T.V in the living room of the ship turn on all of a sudden. The five of them looked back seeing Dante and Guin hiding behind one of the three couches as they warily stared at the TV. A cartoon playing with some hero called 'Commander Cash' which was a weird name. The girls and Goofy couldn't help but find it amusing at two of their more intimidating members of the team were acting like nervous little kids right now.

"Haha. Okay that's pretty funny. Now I want to see how they react to other stuff. That and I want to know what the intergalactic tv stations have to offer. Whose with me?" Yang said as she hoped at least Blake, Ruby or Goofy were. But they didn't seem to want to as they nodded a no. She was a little disappointed until she heard a 'Ahem'. Much to Yang's surprise it was her sister in law Weiss "Really, you Weiss?"

"What that supposed to mean. I can be fun and mess with people if I want, just don't usually ever want to. Till now. So let's enjoy this moment to poke fun at our two scaredy cats sis." Weiss exclaimed as she knew why Yang was probably surprised by that. But couldn't help but agree that it was warranted since she wasn't the prank type of girl. But she might as well try now and with her sister in law of all people "Well?"

"Heh. Then it's a sister and sister bonding moment. Come on let's see how much we can milk this." Yang mused as she was happy to see her sister in law was wanting to bond more and what better way to so then messing with some of their new friends

With that Yang and Weiss made their way quickly off to tease the Dante, and Guin a bit at how they were acting with the TV. That and the cartoon had caught their interest as it seemed so odd already. As they did they left Goofy, Blake and Ruby behind. Goofy himself deciding to make his way back over to Ikail and Donald.

"Welp. Gotta go back to the lessons gals. You two enjoy some relaxation till the first world kay?" Goofy said with his usual chipper tone as Ruby and Blake smiled back

Then Goofy made his way back over to Ikail and Donald. Leaving the other pair of future sisters in laws to converse.

"Well seems like everyone is already getting acclimated to the situation." Blake said as she sighed some with a half-smile "I am too just… kind of surreal still you know little sister?"

"I do… sis-sis." Ruby answered using the now newly though of nick name for her pretty much future sister in law "Heh sorry hope you like the nickname enough."

"I love the nickname Ruby, like how I love my girl, love Weiss as my cousin and how I love you as my little sister already. Which I'm glad for too." Blake answered before she felt Ruby pull her into a hug which she happily returned

"D'aw you already are being a good in law Blake. Thanks!" Ruby cheered as she and Blake hugged for a bit more. Before letting go and as they did, Ruby suddenly face palmed a bit "Ah and I just remembered. I wanted to ask that meanie Leon something before we left."

"Oh what would that be?" Blake wondered

"I just wanted to ask him about that big door in the back of the town. You know the one connected to the large two square past the clock tower. In the area with all the houses." Ruby explained as Blake took a moment before she remembered

"Right that one. Odd now that I think on it. Then again we were kind of busy with the Heartless then. But I wouldn't worry too much about it Ruby. I'm sure it's just a back door is all. Though I do find it odd that it has so many houses in that area when everyone's using the hotel already have the hotel." Blake stated as she did find it odd, but let it be as it probably really wasn't anything serious

"Yeah I guess. Hey want to see if we got food in the kitchen. I'm getting a bit hungry ya know?" Ruby suggested as she rubbed her stomach a bit as Blake chuckled

"Hehe. Sure but no cookies, we haven't even had dinner yet." Blake answered as she chuckled some before turning around to make her way to the kitchen in this ship

"Aw no fair sis-sis!" Ruby pouted as Blake chuckled some more

"Sorry little sister. Those are the rules and Yang asked me to keep the rule in mind." Blake mused as Ruby followed behind pouting some

Though as she did. She stopped for a moment as that large back gate in Traverse Town was still on her mind. She didn't why but it gave her an odd feeling. A feeling like that door would play out to something much more drastic later on. But oh well, like her sis-sis Blake said.

.

.

It probably was nothing…

---

And end!

Alright like I said before its half and half the same to those who may have read the re-edit of this chapter before I rebooted the whole thing. Of course there are changes here and there. Like some added in scenes, changes to character appearances and you get what I'm saying.

Any who there won't be too much to say on here. But how about that peak look into the world beyond the back gates of Traverse Town. An idea I thought up to show just how well… screwed up everything is thanks to the heartless and other factors that played a role in this formation. Not to mention those who have either come back to life from their own world and those who have becoming younger again. Or not to exclude those that had both happen to them. So there's that.

Also keep in mind all these characters aside from a few in the world beyond the gates of Traverse Town are from various franchise for those who may have wondered, or not have heard of some of these individuals beforehand.

And keep this in mind. The worlds outside Traverse Town and the town itself are two separate entities. So don't worry about them getting to clogged up in one place the whole story. That said there WILL be an eventual meeting between these two places and our girls alongside their team are gonna have to deal with all that comes with that. Pray for team RWBY's sanity cause it's probably going to be barely a thing by the end of all this madness.

One more thing. Like I said on the top notes. But I gave my story and OP and ED. This if of course the ED and just look it up on YouTube if ya feel like it.

Here be the ending songs name: Hikaru Utada - Don't Think Twice

That's all I needed to say here. If anyone has questions, please ask them as I am more then willing to reply back so don't be afraid to do so. So, until the next chapter enjoy what I have at the moment everyone and wish you all the best days ahead! : )