Draco's Various Stories

[DracoStar12]

Chapter 1: New Game Start

Dying sucks. Strong statement to start with and one that's obvious, I know but dying factually does suck. It can suck even more depending on how you exactly die. I've heard all sorts of things about dying. News and media can get creative sometimes. Especially from a show about various ways of dying that have actually happened in real life, not something a kid should be watching but I digress, and know a lot from some personal experience. Not to mention it's something one does not generally think about until they are confronted with it. Of course I have a great amount of personal experience right now because well… I am dying. In some shitty alleyway. After saving someone from being robbed. A cliche Hero Story, I know. Guy sees a crime going down and tries to stop it. Hell I can hear the ambulance but well… they're gonna be late, I know it. Stab wound is particularly deep. I can faintly tell the person I saved is nearby me. You know today was such a nice day too before all of this. Sun was shining, it was a particularly warm day even during this dreadful winter that was going on. Makes the cold feeling that was creeping in even worse frankly. I feel the person shaking me, bringing back some of my focus. Could feel my thoughts getting a bit scattered at a point so it helped. Think my head may have gotten a bad hit when I got slammed into the ground while trying to wrestle away the knife.
"H-Hey! Stay with me man!"
"...I'm not gonna make it. I can already feel myself slipping away at this point."
"T-The ambulance is almost here, we just need to keep applying pressure."
"Listen. There's too much blood lost, the wound is practically impossible to patch. Goddamn serrated knife… heh, would be a Geneva Convention Violation if this was a war."
Faintly, I can see the person look at me with slight anger from my attitude. Can't exactly blame them, my head feels a little fuzzy at this point. Think it's because of the pain. Might be due to the blood-loss. Good chance I did get a concussion. Any one of those things kinda makes sense individually. Though if I'll be frank, it's hard to really focus on much else aside from slowly dying and how my head is swimming a bit. Yet I still try and fight through it. Partially because I do actually still wanna live. Partially because even if I am gonna die? I'm going to at least try and get one last affair in order.
"Why the hell are you being so calm about dying!?!?"
"Shock mostly… hey… I'm… Ash Lowell. F-Find my family… tell them I loved them and my last words are… Memories are the only things that last forever."
I say this as I put my hand onto their shoulder. Honestly I can barely move, my body feels so heavy yet I also feel so weak. For a moment, I feel myself fade before focusing again. That stab really put me at death's footsteps. I can tell they're earnestly trying to keep me alive. I appreciate it but I need them to hopefully do that. It's a lot to ask a stranger but… well, I have to get the message to them somehow. Can't reach for my phone, think it broke during the fight. Knew I should have gotten a case for it. Eh well not like I can regret being cheap about something right now.
"I… please… please hold on."
"Just please do that… okay?"
"O-Okay… I will. I definitely will."
At least I can die knowing that my family will know I loved them till the very end. Not to mention I got to give a pretty nice quote. I feel… so tired… and so cold. My vision blurs as I feel it going dark. I think I'll just… close my eyes for a while. Huh, I can feel myself… drifting away. Generally there's supposed to be a light I'm supposed to see and walk into. Yet it doesn't feel like there's going to be one. I will admit one thing, it's… surprisingly peaceful. No sound, no emotion, just silence. After a few moments, something shifts. I feel a cold wind on my body as it blows in my ears. I can feel my body have a certain solidness once again… yet it also feels lighter then before. Slowly opening my eyes, I see that… there was an endless sky before me. Looking down I see I'm standing at the edge of a tower. Immediately I react as any person would. Jumping back from the edge in shock.
"The hell?!?!" I say, my voice sounding foreign to me for a moment
This… this isn't normal. This isn't in any sort of thing I've read about. This feels like the beginning to some sort of webtoon story or something. Looking down at myself, my body is now made of bright orange light. Sort of reminds me of… what the Novakids look like from Starbound except it was more translucent and wispy. Weird thing to be reminded of, I guess but that does feel similar. I feel like I should be freaking out right now but I do feel a… weird sense of calmness? Thinking about it, where exactly am I? This isn't anywhere in any sort of mythology I can recognize. Not unless this is from something I haven't researched too much into which is… a distinct possibility I guess. Does that mean I'll have to fight something? Because if so, damn is that going to be a massive pain in the ass.
"Calm yourself of those thoughts. You are in a safe place." I hear a voice say
I whip around, eyes searching for the source. Finally looking behind me, I see a mysterious tall man in a dark blue cloak. Most of his face is hidden in the shadows of his hood except for his mouth. Currently, he was standing from what I presume is either the entrance into the Tower or the entrance leading from the roof of this Tower. Looking him over, I try to get any sense of if he's from a particular mythological group or not. Wherever I am, it sure as hell doesn't look like the world I just left behind. That much is clearly obvious to me, especially now.
"I will state that I am not related to the Gods of your world." The man says in a knowing voice
"...You can read my thoughts?" I ask carefully
"Indeed I can… and as you know. You're dead." The man states
I stare at him with a distinct sense of blank emotion before promptly getting annoyed. A jaded frustration rising up within me. Normally, I don't mind people stating the obvious but considering just a few moments ago I was dying of a stab wound? I'm not exactly impressed at someone bringing that information up when I have no idea what's going on.
"No shit sherlock. How about instead of saying the obvious, you tell me where the hell I am?" I snap
"A realm of my own making. One that will get used to a… few things I plan on giving you." The man explains
"...Cool cool, so you're offering me something? Because I know damn well from that tone you're offering me something." I respond with
"An understandable assumption… tell me… would you like to live a new life in a new world?" The man asks
That's… an interesting offer to say the least. On one hand? Epic adventures in a world filled with magic. On the other hand? High chances for death. I've read a few novels and seen a few anime about this sort of thing. Not to mention the fact that I was a relatively normal young adult at one point. Was one year off of turning twenty-one and being able to drink. Which kinda sucks that I never got that chance to try a beer. Not to mention I wasn't exactly what you'd call athletic. So I might be screwed in this next life. Especially if I end up in someone else's body because boy howdy do I not have any skills from my previous life that could help. After a few more moments of mulling this over, I slowly nod.
"Okay… that's a bit of a shock but uh… why? Why bring me back, of all people, back from the dead to live in a new world?" I question tentatively
"Simple. You have a strong heart. A heroic one even." The figure says, smiling softly
"Tempted to make a My Hero Academia Reference but there's some parts of that series I don't like… tangent, that's a tangent. So my heroic heart is what qualified me?" I ask with a soft snort
"Among other things. Yes." The figure spoke in a steady tone
"...Do I get powers?" I ask after a brief pause
"Indeed you do. Of course you will have to use them to do one particular thing." The man says
Knew there would be a catch to having these powers. If he asks me to genocide an entire world, I'm turning him down. I might not exactly be the most pleasant person sometimes but I'm not gonna kill an entire world because someone offered to bring me back to life. No amount of superpowers will ever make me cross that line. I'd rather take torment in hell over that… then again, being in hell does suck. Eh in either case I'd be in hell, so that's a moot point really. Doing my best to squint at the man, seriously it's really hard to do that when you technically don't have eyes, I look at him with suspicion.
"You're not planning on making me do anything evil with those powers right?" I ask
"I do not plan on making you do anything genocidal. That is up to your discretion really." The man responds with an enigmatic smile
"Right… mind-reading thing. Forgot about that. Okay so if we're not doing anything evil without my choice. What's the thing I have to do? Marry a hundred girls? Kill a God? Create a universe?" I ask blandly
"Actually you just have to kill one great evil. Typical Heroic journey sort of thing, don't you agree?" The man asks with some amusement
"...What are the powers and who am I gonna be killing? I get the feeling there's some info here you're not telling me outright." I say, suspicion arising within me
The man slowly nods before bringing up his hand, appearing over his hand is a… floating menu. One straight out of a video game. Wait, am I being given The Gamer Ability? Awesome- wait no, don't assume yet. If I've learned anything from… reading a few fanfics, Gamer Abilities can either be piss-easy to deal with for a great power fantasy or brutal to the point of feeling bad for the character. It isn't an instant win button and generally it allows for some people to get super strong and have harems. Not interested in Harems personally but that's not exactly the point. Point is: cool superpower could come at a great cost that I'm not exactly ready to deal with.
"So… that menu. That's related to The Gamer Ability right-" "Yes it is related to The Gamer Ability as you have deduced. And do not worry, the difficulty will not be as harsh as you fear."
Neat. That answers that question. So that begs the other question that hasn't been answered. After all, I did ask two things. And the other thing is who am I going to have to face? After all, this could be one of those situations where I am thrown into a piece of media I know. Which is both great and not great. Great because I have foreknowledge to work with, not great because that foreknowledge could easily become useless or just outright be useless.
"For someone who thinks of themselves quite simple. You do tend to think a lot about your decisions before making them." The man says, a smirk tugging at his lips
"Piss off, I'm trying to weigh my options. Now answer my other question on who I'm facing." I say, trying to keep some patience
"Salem. The leader of the Grimm and a Dark Witch you could say." The man says as a smirk grows on his face
"...Hell yeah! I can get a gunblade! Well… if I survive the beginning at least. Still uh… is there… anything else I should worry about?" I ask, immediately realizing I should get back on topic
"Only about what you'll look like. Of course before I send you down there. I will give you some time to get used to having a smaller body and then-"
"Wait, smaller body?" I interrupt with
"Yes, you'll be much younger than you were before. It's the best chance for you to change as many things within the timeline as possible." The man explains
"...Goddammit. Okay, I can deal with that. Not the worst thing to happen, could be. Not sure… eh I'll figure it out." I say with a huff
At least he's giving me a chance to get used to the difference in size. Going from one height to another can mess people up from what I've read. Not to mention some fanfics play around with that concept and I may as well take the win here. The man briefly disappeared before a blank model appeared before me, looking similar to a mannequin. Then a series of options straight out of a character creator appeared in my vision. Well, this'll be a fun thing to do. May as well stick to my old looks at best as possible. I have ash blonde hair, steel blue eyes, and fair skin. Noticing the race option, I look through the selection. Lots of Faunus options… I'll just go with Wolf Faunus since that's fairly generic. And finally, I'll take the name from my last life since it fits the color theme anyway.

Ash Lowell​

Nodding, I press the confirm button. Making the model disappear. After a moment I feel… smaller, shorter even. Looking down I see a small version of my hand. Yep, seems like it was instant. I miss being tall already. Soon after, the man reappeared in a burst of blue energy. He nods at me as he has to tilt his head to look. Well at least he isn't being smug with the height difference. I can take solace in that fact.
"Now. I will give you some time to run around, exercise, get used to being in this body. Afterward, you'll be sent down into the world of Remnant. Do not worry about the lack of combat experience… you will understand your abilities soon enough." The man said
"Good to know. So what's your name exactly? Because I feel like since you know my name, I may as well know yours… I get the feeling that calling you 'Mr. Freaky Cloaked Dude' would not exactly entertain you." I say
"Oho, I find that quite endearing actually… but yes, I suppose giving you my name shall suffice. I am Chrono." The man says
"Alrighty… Chrono. I'll keep that in mind. Let's get to training, yeah?" I ask
Soon after, I'm guided down into the Tower with the walls being smooth and featureless, lit by an eerie, otherworldly glow. We eventually arrived into a room that is… essentially one of those parkour training rooms. There were ropes, wooden beams, raps, and concrete walls practically made for wall-running across. With a soft sigh, I ready myself before running around the area. Running, jumping, leaping, and rolling across all sorts of areas. Took me a few tries in some regards but after a bit, I managed to get used to being in a smaller body. After a few hours of running, I collapsed onto the floor. Breathing somewhat heavily. Don't have the Gamer Ability yet so stamina is pretty limited as is. Then again I wouldn't be surprised if I was given some form of enhanced stamina just in this room so I have as much time as possible to get used to being like this… oh God I'm gonna have to spend years like this. I mean having the Gamer Ability will help a lot but still, it's gonna be a pain growing up. At least puberty won't be as bad thanks to Gamer's Mind. Soon after, Chrono walked over to me.
"I see you have finished running around. Must admit, you lasted longer than I thought. I figured even with the enhanced stamina, you'd need to take at least one break." He says
"I tend to impress… in weird ways." I pant out
"Regardless… sleep. When you wake next… you will be in that world. Landing will be bumpy however." Chrono says, their voice infused with power
Suddenly I feel entirely too exhausted to stay away… my eyes slowly slide close as I fall asleep. Remnant, here I come- wait what was that last part about a bumpy landing?

---

Suddenly I'm awoken by landing on the ground with a loud thud. After a moment, I drag myself from the ground and wipe the dirt off of my face. Looking around, I see I am… in front of Raven's old house. In a forest… somewhere on Patch… annnnddd it's almost evening. Great. Just great. Slowly getting up, I brush myself off with a grumble. Thank you, Chrono, for MAKING ME LAND LIKE THAT YOU ASSHOLE! THAT FUCKING HURT! Ugh. Some people. Right, well… guess I should open my status. I hum before deciding to do the Sword Art Online menu opening gesture. A menu opens up soon after. Being a weeb for the win! Then again SAO isn't exactly my favorite anime… eh, whatever, I'll take what I can get. I open my status menu first and foremost by selecting the option called… well… Status. The menu reconfigures itself showing a chibi version of me in ragged clothing with my name and stats underneath it.

[{Status}]
[Name: Ash Lowell]
[Class(es): N/A]
[Race: Faunus - Wolf]
[HP (Health Points): 105/105]
[AP (Aura Points): 0/0 {LOCKED}]
[MP (Magic Points): 105/105]
[STR (Strength): 5]
[END (Endurance): 5]
[SPD (Speed): 5]
[INT (Intelligence): 5]
[WIS (Wisdom): 5]
[CHR (Charisma): 5]
[LCK (Luck): 5]

Well… that's quite the interesting thing there. I'll have to get my Aura unlocked later. Let's see… what other things are here? Inventory? Nothing there which is definitely expected. Settings? Apparently there's a BGM Mode. That is useful but I think I'll turn that on later when I'm a bit more prepared. Skills? I haven't developed any so no point looking there. Perks. There we go. Good place to start. Especially considering the fact that I might have some traits I didn't notice. Opening it up, the list is fairly simple and mostly what I'd expect.

[{Perks}]
[Gamer's Mind (Max LVL): Allows you to see through tricks and remain calm in most situations {Warning: In cases of severely distressing moments, PTSD can override this Perk. Same with intense moments of emotion}]
[Gamer's Body (Max LVL): Allows for restoration of HP, MP, and AP during rest {Pain Inhibitors will deactivate after a certain point in progression}]
[Enhanced Senses (Max LVL): You can hear footsteps from even a mile away… car alarms are very annoying as a downside]
[Night Vision (Max LVL): Don't need Goggles to see during a moonless night]

Aside from some of the somewhat weird descriptions. It's odd that Gamer's Mind has some downgrades alongside Gamer's Body. Then I realized… it's to make sure I don't lose myself because of the power I have. Very easily I could forget that I am a person to an extent due to having nullified pain and a constant sense of calm even during distressing situations. While yes I'd have emotions, Gamer's Mind could easily quash them but allowing some moments where my mind doesn't need to focus too much on logic could be a boon in its own right… or this could just be a weird downgrade to mess with me. Who's to say? Either way, I wasn't going to let it stop me. I'd adapt, like I always did. For now, though, I needed to figure out my next move. Remnant was waiting. Suddenly a new menu pops up in front of me.

[Class System Activated]
[{Please choose two Classes from the following list}]​

It then expands into a large list of options. Honestly I didn't even know some of these were classes on their own to begin with. Then again there's a vast array of media I didn't even look into, so it's probably not that surprising. Humming slightly. I decided to take two of my favorite Magical classes from a particular Final Fantasy. Final Fantasy V. The Red Mage and the Spellblade. Red Mage because being able to use damaging magic and healing magic this early would be pretty big. Even in its original game it fell off pretty quickly due to the fact that it can only learn spells up to a certain tier. Hell it was particularly bad in Final Fantasy 1. Spellblade because enchanting my weapons with Elements without the use of Dust is incredibly useful. It'll save money in the long-run and I could easily pass it off as a Semblance in case I don't ever get one. In the event that I can't pass it off, I can bullshit my way around that. In the end, lying is probably gonna become pretty common for a while. Not ideal but I know better than to just be honest all of the time.

[Classes have been chosen]

[|Quest completed|]
[{The Basics}]
[-Explanation: You have gained the power of the Gamer Ability. May as well see what you can do first and foremost before doing anything like saving the world.]
[Rewards: 45 Stat Points, Basic Skills, Bonus Item Pack, Special Ability Package]
​

Those are some nice rewards for completing a random tutorial. Don't mind if I take those for myself hehe~. I'll have to take a look at those other rewards later. I take a moment to assign my stat points in the proper areas. Increasing my HP and MP up to a nice one hundred fifteen and one hundred ten respectively. If I've learned anything it's that having a high HP stat can be pretty useful, especially in Souls-like games. Then again glass cannon builds are viable… wait what am I thinking? That's a bad idea in this situation. Because I can actually die and I do not think I'll be given another chance simply because I died due to focusing on Strength rather than survival. I'm gonna have to hardcore resist that temptation for quite a while. I decided to take a quick look over my current stat spread.

[STR: 10]
[END: 15]
[SPD: 12]
[INT: 10]
[WIS: 10]
[CHR: 15]
[LCK: 8]

Luck doesn't need to be super high at the moment since I am just starting out. Don't think I'll be getting very many drop items I can use at the start anyway. Not to mention the fact that having a fairly good Charisma and Endurance stat will carry me in quite a few situations. Charisma because talking to people is important and Endurance because getting stabbed once was already painful enough. Would like to survive that if possible this time around. In the end, I think I might have a pretty balanced build in all of my other stats aside from Endurance and Charisma. I then hear the sound of wagon wheels creaking behind me, turning around immediately I see… oh shit.
"Uh… hey, who are you?" A young Yang Xiao-Long asks me

---

Right, sooooo... hello to the folks of Questionable Questing! As you can see this is... well a Gamer Story I have. In case anyone is curious, yeah I did edit this in later when I realized I forgot to talk about some things... whoops.

Moving on from that. Some of you are probably thinking 'Oh this might turn into a power Fantasy with a lot of big timeskips' but I am gonna be honest and say that I'm actually playing this a lot slower and a lot less 'The main character is gonna overpower canon by the time he gets there.' I think that'd not do much for the characters and the story here.

With that being said, yeah I'm gonna say that my character writing skills aren't the greatest sometimes. I'd like to think I did improve a lot in later chapters when I wrote this. Btw there's like... a ton of chapters. I'm gonna slowly post them out and let folks share their thoughts on everything.

If anyone is curious about how I do leveling and want me to explain how Stats work. I'll gladly do so! I honestly put a lot of work into the system for this whole thing. I could be doing better but eh, math wasn't my strong suit at some points.

With that all being said. I'll see you all around. (And as another side-note. I have other stories also. I am gonna post them after posting like four or five chapters of this)

 

[DracoStar12]

Chapter 2: The Quests Begin

Alright, well I'm already meeting a canon character at this point. That's great. That's just perfectly fine. Barely even give me a moment to relax before throwing me straight into the wolves… or the Beowolves in this case… 'cause of the Grimm. I can totally deal with that. Sarcasm aside, I'm gonna need to act quick in this situation. Because frankly? I have… no idea how to act in this situation. Don't think most people would be able to but this is especially the case in my situation. I can't blow this otherwise I'm going to look incredibly suspicious for being what… a seven-year-old in the middle of the wilderness? Thinking about it, that already looks suspicious… thoughts for later.
"Uh… I'm uh… my name's Ash." I say in an incredibly awkward way after a moment
Great work me. Totally got it down. Then again if I was working with default Charisma chances are that would have been more awkward and I would have flubbed that situation worse. Still, I'll have to make a mental note to put a good amount of points into Charisma during a few level-ups. Chances are I'll end up talking to Ozpin knowing how things generally go. I'll need every bit of social finesse I can get. The Luck stat being low doesn't help either. Or would it be good luck I ended up catching his attention instead of Salem's considering how she is? That is something to think about later. Hate that I'm being given barely any sort of time to try and adjust to all of this but oh well I guess. Yang is currently looking at me somewhat awkwardly also. Understandable considering she didn't expect to encounter someone like me out here anyway.
"...So uh… this house is abandoned. Gonna say that now. Not sure how I got here but oh well." I say in a somewhat stilted tone
"Really? That means I… I traveled here for nothing." Yang said sadly
Shit, right. I sort of forgot for a moment she was looking for her mom… who is a deadbeat. Thinking about it, yeah I can understand Taiyang's reluctance to mention why Raven left. I'd probably have way more issues if I found out from a young age my own mom didn't want me and left to be a Bandit Queen. Pretty sure that'd mess a lot of people up. Luckily my Charisma was just high enough for me to expose that I know that information through my expression. I hum for a moment before nodding slowly.
"Well… if you want I could help you… maybe find some items in the house she might have left behind?" I ask
"I-I'd appreciate that… it's just me and my sister here." Yang said, looking down
"Pretty dangerous decision to make. I mean the Grimm love prowling these sorts of areas from what I can tell." I say simply
"Oh… oh crap-baskets." Is Yang's only response
Wait I feel like I recognize that from somewhere- my thoughts are promptly interrupted by a low, guttural growl. My body tenses instinctively as a response. Great, seems like we're already being attacked. I don't even have any weapons or any Skills yet. You know I should have expected this but remembering Yang's little backstory about one of the many times she tried to find her mom wasn't exactly at the forefront of my mind. I try to quickly think on my feet… before a menu pops up in front of my face as time freezes.

[|Quest gained|]
[{A Grimm Meeting}]
[-Explanation: You've arrived in Remnant and have the Gamer Ability. A fine start to a story… except for the part of being mauled by Grimm. Luckily, you have your Class abilities!]
[-Objective 1: Fight off the Grimm until either they are all defeated or until Qrow arrives]
[Rewards: 50 EXP, Relationship Up with Yang, Relationship Up with Ruby, Relationship up with Qrow, Relationship Up with Taiyang, 5 Random Dust Crystals, Aura is Unlocked, Timeline Shifts Positively]
[Failure: Death]
​

Great start I suppose. Wait, I do have the abilities and skills of my Class? Before closing that menu, I opened up another to see my Class Skills. I then give a slight grin at what I have. Jackpot. This'll be pretty useful to have. After all, having some Spells is better than no Spells to use at all. Especially since I don't have a single weapon I can use to defend myself. Of course I get the feeling the names aren't exactly… what I would expect of this Class for some of these Spells if I'm gonna be honest.

[{Skills}]
[Basic Red Magic (LVL 1): Allows for the use of LVL 0 Red Magic]
◆[Singe: Cast a small spark of Fire {Costs 1 MP}]
◆[Frostbite: Cast a magic spike of Ice {Costs 1 MP}]
◆[Spark: Cast bolt of Thunder {Costs 1 MP}]
◆[Mist Spray: Cast spray of Water {Costs 1 MP}]
◇[Mend: Heals minor wounds {Costs 1 MP}]
◇[Cleanse: Heals one Status Effect inflicted {Costs 1 MP}]
[Spellblade (LVL 1): Gives the user the ability to Enchant their weapons with Elements]
⩺[Boosted Blade: Enhance the attack of a weapon by +2 {Costs 10 MP}]

I guess since I'm REALLY starting out. I'm basically getting the barest of Magic Skills. Level zero doesn't exactly sound like anything impressive with names like that. It's better than having nothing I suppose. Breathing out, I close the menu before quickly turning around. Facing the Grimm. I focus the Magical energy inside of me instinctually before sticking a hand out. Barely even thinking about the gesture as I feel the mana gather into my hand.
"CHEW ON THIS INSTEAD! SINGE!" I yell out
A small burst of fire shoots out of my hand and hits the Grimm, doing a good amount of damage. I fire out a few more bursts before dodging away from a strike from its claws. Adrenaline is a hell of a drug considering how I managed to dodge that. I need to do more damage. Wait… what if I? I then use Mist Spray on it, covering it in water. Not enough that it's absolutely drenched but enough that it is quite wet. After that, I follow it up with Spark, electrocuting it as it bellows angrily. If used correctly, even the lowest Tier of Spells can do a lot of damage. Using synergy for a bit over overwhelming power is probably for the best anyway. After all, doing more damage based on comboing spells together is gonna help me a lot more in some situations compared to others.

[For that deduction, you get +1 WIS]
​

Glad to see that system is still in place. Wouldn't have been surprised if it was purely a system of Skill Points and Level-ups. I notice the Grimm is on its last legs so I fire out another Spark onto it, finally killing it. I breath out for a moment before noticing the sound of thudding footsteps. Rolling forward, I barely dodge the swiping of claws from another Grimm. Reorienting myself, I slowly get up before deciding that I should take a chance to experiment a little more. I fire out three Mist Sprays, doing my best to dodge the attacks before finally casting Frostbite. The spike of ice stabs into the Grimm, steadily freezing a part of it from the water dripping off of it. I cast more Frostbites, making it move slower and slower before it finally freezes. It took a bit of MP but I managed to fend off some of the Grimm. Breathing a little heavily, due to the fact that I've dodged a lot, I look over at a shocked Yang.
"Okay, what are you standing around for? Run into the house! Go go go!" I bark out
"B-But what about-"
"Listen, you and your sister are in danger. I can handle myself pretty well. Just hide." I say
Yang nodded and was about to run… the crisp sound of a scythe slashing through something fills the air. I look over and see him, Qrow Branwen, nonchalantly resting his scythe against his shoulder with a dead Grimm near him. Okay, good. We're safe now. After all, I'm pretty sure that there isn't going to be a lot of enemies from this point on. Or at the very least, enemies that won't be possible for me to handle simply because I just arrived here on Remnant with barely any sort of equipment. I notice him looking over at the two Grimm that haven't disappeared yet before looking at me specifically.
"...Did you kill those Grimm?" He asks
"...I can answer that probably in a safer area." I say in response
Okay, shit. No chance I can reasonably lie my way out of this situation. I could try and lie but that would most likely strain my trust with them. For the sake of future situations? Going to avoid that as much as possible. Qrow nods soon after before Ruby sits up from inside the wagon a bit groggy, did none of the fighting wake her up? That feels like such a protagonist thing to do- wait no, no. Don't think of her like that, she is still young. I am dealing with a person due to my perspective right now, not a fictional character. That is gonna be weird to get used to. I notice Qrow nodding in agreement after a few moments of thinking. Sweet. A menu pops up in the corner of my vision as we begin walking towards Taiyang's place.

[|Quest completed|]
[{A Grimm Meeting}]
[-Explanation: You've arrived in Remnant and have the Gamer Ability. A fine start to a story… except for the part of being mauled by Grimm. Luckily, you have your Class abilities!]
[Rewards gained: 50 EXP, Relationship Up with Yang, Relationship Up with Ruby, Relationship up with Qrow, Relationship Up with Taiyang, 5 Random Dust Crystals, Aura is Unlocked, Timeline Shifts Positively]
[Bonus Objective complete - Damageless: 25 EXP gained, 100 Lien gained]
​

Nice, thank you Dark Souls for reaching me the value of Dodge-rolling away from attacks. As we headed down the path, it was distinctly silent… I can tell Ruby wants to talk about a few things, especially since the 'Fun day out with her Sister' now has Uncle Qrow seemingly looking a little mad with some random kid she hasn't met now walking with them towards their house. Pretty logical reaction all things considered. Gonna avoid thinking about the possible timelines where Yang and Ruby died because Taiyang didn't keep a better eye on the two. Okay, let's use that Charisma stat Ash. Let's use it well because this could do a lot.
"So… I think we could do with a more proper round of introductions. I'm Ash Lowell." I say sheepishly
"Y-Yang. Yang Xiao Long." Yang said, rubbing her arm
"Ruby Rose." Ruby said cheerfully
"...Qrow Branwen. Any particular reason you decided to… involve yourself here?" Qrow asks, immediately interrogating me
"...Yeah I can already tell I'm not gonna convince you I'm just a normal seven-year-old. Look, all I can say for now is… I'm a little… different from most folks. Aside from the Faunus traits." I say
"Fluffy!" Ruby says, pointing at my ears
"Yep, my ears are indeed fluffy." I say with a sage nod
Qrow looks a bit off-put by my maturity and how easily I'm answering questions. Honestly I think it's for the best that I just basically be honest in some regards. Lying was never really my strong suit back in my old life and I think it'll just help me in the long run to be straight-forward. Besides, being straight-forward has helped a lot of situations due to the whole Trope of 'Lack Of Communication Kills'. It didn't take too long for us to arrive back at Taiyang's home. The warm, homey structure came into view just as the forest thinned, Qrow walked over to the door and opened it. Revealing a worried and slightly disheveled Taiyang. Poor man, I can understand why he isn't exactly looking great. His wife died recently and now his daughters were in danger. Not to mention the fact that the latter situation was a little bit of his fault, always had a feeling he was deep in his grief at this point. Upon seeing Yang and Ruby standing at his feet, he gave Qrow a deep grateful hug. I decide to stand nearby and just let them talk. I can already tell he's gonna be saving the scolding for what Yang did later and just tell them that he loves them both deeply. Yang, meanwhile, is probably gonna harbor the need to find her mom for a long while. Just like in canon. Frowning to myself, I think… I should probably have Taiyang tell her the truth at some point. She doesn't need to deal with a deadbeat like that. Nobody should have to try and impress a deadbeat parent frankly. Rarely works out from what I've seen and experienced. Soon after, Qrow gestures over to me saying something in a whisper with the blonde man nodding. Well, it seems like I'm up, I step over with a raised hand.
"Heya there, I'm Ash Lowell. Uh, I know you have questions about how I'm involved in all of this… I presume Qrow told you everything?" I ask
"...When you said he had a good vocabulary, I didn't think you meant he knew words like 'presume." Taiyang says to Qrow bluntly
"Fair. I'm like what, seven?" I say with a shrug
"Speaking of which, so… how did you save my kids? Qrow mentioned not seeing a weapon on you and I doubt you're carrying Dust Crystals." Taiyang questions
"...Look, let's talk about this later tonight. I'm gonna be honest with you? There's a lot and I don't want Ruby or Yang accidentally overhearing this." I explain, glancing idly at the two aforementioned kids
"...Can you at least tell me why you were here?" Taiyang asks
"Simply put? I have… a task of sorts. It's not an easy thing to explain either. I know I'm being enigmatic, I know it doesn't help that I know that large a word at this age, but I need you to put a little trust into me. I promise you I will tell you everything." I say with a truthful voice
Taiyang stares at me for a moment. Looking over my features as I try to give as much honesty as I can. I am being serious when I am promising to tell him about everything he needs to know. I'm not going to tell him everything, obviously but what he absolutely will need to know. Asking him to put trust into me is a lot but I'm hoping that maybe I convinced him just a little? After a few moments… he gives a slow steady nod.
"Alright… alright, I'm putting some trust into you Ash." Taiyang says softly
"I'm grateful for that." I say
"I guess with that uh… have you eaten?" Qrow asks
"No, I haven't. Would love like… a quick snack. Like an apple." I say simply
I know I don't really need to eat all that much but eating food is nice dammit. After that, we head inside. I spent a few hours talking to Yang and Ruby, getting to know them a bit more. Play some games with them since, apparently, they really want to play some board games with another kid their age aside from their Dad. Not too surprised that in some regards they don't hang out very often with other kids outside of school. Feels eerily familiar in that regard I'd say. It's pretty… nice, having a moment of calm like this after facing off against the Grimm.

---

"Alright… so, you mind finally explaining what your whole deal is, kid?" Qrow asks bluntly
After Ruby and Yang had gone to bed, we sat down in the living room. I sat on the couch across from Taiyang and Qrow, both of whom were looking at me with scrutiny. Don't exactly blame them for doing that, it's not exactly easy for them to reckon with the idea of a Kid having far more power and knowledge of some things then he should be having. Hell if I were in their shoes I'd probably be having the same reaction, if not more disbelief towards what's going on. Then again my suspension of disbelief was always a little weird… tangent. That's a tangent. I hum for a moment before steadily breathing out, I think this is my best way of going about it. It's not the most optimal way but it's the best way of going about it.
"To put it simply… I'm not exactly… normal as you can tell. Pretty much I ended up dying in my previous life and got reincarnated with some abilities. I know that sounds unbelievable. I understand that. Which is why I will offer you one piece of evidence that will support this argument." I say
"...Yeah, you're right. That does sound unbelievable. But I'm willing to see that piece of evidence since, if I've learned anything, it's that not everything is what it seems." Qrow says, his tone clearly disbelieving
"I agree with that. So… go ahead and present it." Taiyang says with a wary expression
"Alright… so… I need you to hand me an object. Any handheld object like a pen or something." I say
Taiyang soon pulls a pen from his pocket before tossing it to me, I catch it easily before opening my inventory. I have two ways of putting things into my inventory. Instant transportation or physically putting it inside the menu. I slide it into there, making the pen disappear into thin air. To them, it seems like I made it disappear into something. To me, I can just see it in a slot in my inventory. I pull it back out before placing it onto the table. Looking with a serious and calm expression at them as I do so.
"There's my proof." I say, keeping my tone even
"...What the hell was that?" Qrow asks confused
"An ability of mine. I can store things into a separate location. An inventory of sorts. I have more abilities but I don't think you want me creating a fire in your house." I say with some cheekiness
"Heh, okay. I'd rather not have to explain why scorch marks were in the house. Though you better not put me on ice like you did that Grimm." Taiyang says, smirking
"...Tai, oh my Brothers. Why?" Qrow says annoyed
"That'd be pretty cold of me to do." I say simply in response
"Oh we are going to get along WELL." Taiyang says chuckling
Knew my sense of humor would come in clutch here. Though I already know my sense of humor isn't going to be popular with some folks anyway. Ah well, not the end of the world after all. A menu appears in the corner of my vision, making me internally react with surprise as I try to keep my expression schooled. I didn't think this was a system that had existed. Then again, considering what some of the Quest Rewards had implied earlier. This should have been seen from a mile away.

[{Relationship Updated}]
[Taiyang Xiao Long: Acquainted]

A relationship system. That's good to know at least. Not to mention useful if I wanna keep track of certain things. Kinda curious how in-depth it is. I refocus myself away from those thoughts, mentally closing that menu soon after. I glance over at Qrow who looks both unamused at the puns but more relieved that I'm not some crazy Kid or some random powerhouse from Salem that just so HAPPENED to be in the area. Then again he probably didn't suspect that. I'm not entirely sure since, in spite of everything, I'm not good at reading people. That's not exactly a skill some people develop after all.
"Qrow… I do wanna say something to you that's pretty important." I say
"Yeah kid?" Qrow asks
"...I wanna make it clear that as long as I'm here. I'm gonna do everything within my power to help around here. I… don't really have anywhere else to go, so I'm hoping to stay here for a bit." I say
"Of course you're welcome here. You helped save my kids, and you're just a kid yourself. It'd be wrong to turn you away.… frankly throwing you out would be a little messed up." Taiyang says
"Yeah… and Ash, I can see you've got potential to be a great Huntsman. I mean you've got… powers like that. If you want, I could help train you sometime?" Qrow asks
"I'd appreciate that. But don't go easy on me. I might be young but I'm not gonna be the type to take it easy in some regards." I say
"...It feels weird to talk to a kid so seriously… eh, I think at the end of the day you'll be interesting to work with." Qrow says, grabbing out a flask
He takes a sip from it as another menu appears saying that Qrow is now Acquainted with me. Nice. That's two good relationships. Here's hoping that I continue improving that because, outside of any idea of rewards, I actually do like making friends. It's important stuff. Afterward, Taiyang showed me to a guest room since well… he did mean it when he was willing to welcome me here. After going inside, I sit down on the guest bed before promptly opening my inventory. Grabbing out those particular rewards I got. Each of them are tokens. One that's blue with a sword symbol on it with the other being a golden token with a plus symbol on it. I snap the blue token first. Making a menu appear in front of me.

[Bonus Items rolled]
[{Please choose one from the list}]
[-COMP: An arm computer that's been modified to work with The Gamer-]
[-Phantom Lantern: A useful lantern good for lighting up spaces, can be used to reveal hidden traps-]
[-Treasure Compass: A compass that points you to Rare items-]
[-Shadowwalk Band: A wristband with an effect that allows you to shift into an Ethereal State… at a cost-]
​

Okay… not a bad list of items. Though I can already tell which one I want the most. The COMP. There's a reason for that. Simply put, I'm not sure how useful Scrolls would be and having an arm computer simply sounds cool. The Phantom Lantern already has limited utility thanks to my Night Vision. The Treasure Compass could be good… if items aren't super far away and I'm not sure how much effort I can use finding those items. The Shadowwalk Band sounds good on paper and in practice it could easily be used in a lot of situations but that cost part is putting me off. So COMP it is. I select it and instantly, the arm computer appears on my arm. I open it up and well… not only does it have a version of the Gamer Menu but it also allows me to call people. So that's neat. Closing it, I place it into my inventory temporarily until I can bullshit me on how I got it. I then snap the other token, making a new menu appear in front of me.

[Abilities rolled]
[{Please choose one from the list}]
[-Tarot Bond: Thou Art I and I Art Thou-]
[-Familiar: A being based on who you are inside (Can be gained later)-]
[-Anime Logic: Exactly what it sounds like-]
[-Future Vision: Bursts of prophecy-]
​

And here comes the harder decisions. The first one sounds pretty interesting, especially since it's given me vibes to a game series I'm pretty familiar with. The Familiar option sounds useful to have now… but I'll have to consider that as a second option in case I change my mind on Tarot Bond. Anime Logic is just a hard no. I'm already dealing with enough as is, I do not need that thank you very much. Not to mention I get the feeling it also uses all sorts of Anime Logic and anything from the Harem Genre will always be a very hard no thank you from me. Future Vision sounds good on paper but in practice will probably not be all that helpful. So… there's only really two good options here. I think, genuinely speaking, Tarot Bond will be the better option and the most interesting one. After tapping it, the menu closes. Suddenly my head hurts briefly, making me hold it. I… thought the Gamer negated pain!
"Thou Art I. And I Art Thou. Your True Power shall manifest through the Bonds you keep. May you be blessed onward during your Journey, Fool."
I pant heavily after the headache fades. Sweat dripped off of me as I collapsed on the bed. So… that was weird. The hell was that all about? I didn't think abilities would do that! Ugh, this version of the Gamer Ability certainly is something else I guess. I sit up from my bed, wiping some of the sweat off of my face. Probably going to need to take a shower later after I rest. Gonna smell. I then notice a new menu next to me. One that definitely surprised me with what was written on it. Especially since the menu has a deeper blue with a golden trim around it.

[{Social Link Rank Up}]
[Taiyang - The Helios Brawler (Enlightenment): 0≫1]
[Qrow - The Dusty Crow (Tower): 0≫1]

Social Links. I unlocked that. Looking through my Menu, it's pretty bare what that section even has. Just telling me what Social Links I have, what Rank they are, and a series of question marks under a category called 'Skills & Spells'. Looks like whatever is involved there is just gonna be something I'll have to figure out another time. Though in all honesty, I was pretty confused at Taiyang's Arcana being Enlightenment. I hum and decide that's another thing to look into later. For now? I think I should relax before doing anything else. I take a moment to look through the settings one last time, turning on the BGM. I then crawl into bed before finally resting. It didn't take much effort considering how the Gamer works. Guess that means no more insomnia unless I want it… hell yeah!

---

Alrighty, so I wanna explain some things about this chapter since there's probably a few folks a bit turned away by the protagonist being so honest about his situation.

Look, I'm gonna be real and say that his Charisma Stat is way too low to be lying and he cannot afford any lack of trust right now. Plus I think a protagonist that isn't exactly a liar at times is interesting. Lying by omission is something he'll for sure do though. I gurantee that.

And for the Social Link System. Here's where things get interesting. I've actually developed a lot of Social Links for this Fic. Some of them may be used, some of them may not be used. In the end, I've plotted out a lot of stuff. On that note, I'm gonna explain a few of my decisions related to this whole Social Link thing.

I think Social Links are a pretty interesting concept and have a lot of utility. Now is this because I'm a massive fan of Persona? Yes but I also like to think of it from a writing and narrative standpoint. How would a protagonist like this be able to truly gain more strength? By being able to gain it from others through understanding and helping them if needs be.

And the Social Links themselves. Tower for Qrow should be obvious but the Tower Arcana usually involves a lot of bad shit happening... Qrow has had a ton of bad shit happen to him. Enlightenment is a different case. It's an alternate card for the Sun Arcana. I do have an actual explanation for why Taiyang has this version of that Arcana in another chapter. So no spoilers there.

If you're thinking there's an implication to the fact some characters are gonna have Alternate Arcana. You'd exactly be right!

Also if the character was a villain and gonna have a Social Link with Salem. It'd be some variation of either the Tower Arcana, the Empress Arcana, or the Hunger Arcana which is also known as Lust in the Tarot Deck it originally came from. Mostly putting that idea down for anyone else who wants to do a similar system to this.

With that being said, I'll see you all around. Make sure to drink water.

 

[DracoStar12]

Chapter 3: A Time Of Spring

It's been around a month since I've been in Remnant. In this time I've been not doing a lot besides just training. Some basic exercise that's earned me three points of Strength, two points in Intelligence, and a point in Wisdom. Alongside that, I've leveled up a couple of times. Mainly doing small quests around Patch for a fair amount of EXP, it helps that I get some money for doing it. None of it is all that fancy or game-breaking. Though at least I've been getting my relationship up with Yang and Ruby. Getting close to forming a proper Social Link at least. Speaking of which, there's honestly a lot of information about that to go over. First off, apparently Enlightenment is a variation of the Sun Arcana under one of the many Tarot Decks that exist. So guess that means that anyone I meet might have an Arcana that's a variation of the Tarot. From what I managed to gleam about Enlightenment specifically, it's more of a focus on Empathy and Understanding. Which kinda makes sense, weirdly, since… well I'm dealing with a single father as a Social Link. Second off, Taiyang did say I don't need to go around helping people if I need money and I told him that if I'm gonna get strong, I need to help people in my own way and this is a good way of doing it. He accepted it since it was pretty obvious I wasn't gonna budge on that issue. Overall though, I did also ask Qrow something since he was about to leave. He was only around to keep an eye on Taiyang after everything that happened. Makes sense considering I know well enough people can do rash things after particularly stressful events. Regardless, I asked him to look out for someone in a particular location. Reason was after about two weeks of being in Remnant. I got this quest. And I'm gonna be honest, it's something that has my concern.

[|Quest gained|]
[{The Maiden Of Spring}]
[-Explanation: Due to the nature of Remnant, the Spring Maiden is going to be an important figure to deal with. The question is; what are you going to do in that regard?]
[-Objective: Choose what you do with the Spring Maiden]
◈[Savior Route: Save the Spring Maiden from her future fate by taking her in]
◈[Canon Route: Leave well enough alone and focus on your own strength]
◈[Dark Route: Kill her and have someone else take that power]
[Savior Route Rewards: 100 EXP, Spring Maiden Relationship Status unlocked, Unknown Timeline Alteration]
[Canon Route Rewards: 10 EXP, 200 Lien, Timeline is left unaltered]
[Dark Route Rewards: 50 EXP, 50 Lien, Assassin Class unlocked, Unknown Timeline Alteration]
[Possibilities for failure: Death, Fate Worse Than Death, Bandit Camp Recruitment, Nothing]
​

To put it simply, that sort of Quest with a lengthy list is… a lot. So I had to make a decision. I could try and find her myself and… kill her but that's fucked up so no. Canon is already fucked in some regards and I'd rather not contribute to possibly going back to this route. Picking and choosing isn't exactly my kind of option. Especially since I know how everything pans out. Good thing Chrono refreshed my memory before sending here apparently. In the end; I told Qrow to find the Spring Maiden with the same source I know in Canon, she was in Mistral. Not exactly sure how young she was but hey, that's gonna be something I'll find out. Asking Qrow was actually for the best simply because of one clear fact. That Bandit Camp Recruitment part is not exactly something I'm keen on tempting. Same with the Fate Worse Than Death. That alone makes me think of several things that are very very unpleasant. So I'm going to, for now, just wait and hope he comes back with the girl. He actually did question a lot why I'm looking for this girl, so I told a little bit of the Truth and said that she may be in danger. Most of the lie was that it was a gut feeling. I did convince him by saying by her being in Patch with me, another Magic User, she'd be safe. Not to mention the fact I mentioned that I'll owe him one. He agreed on the stipulation that I meet Ozpin when there was a period of time available to do so. I was perfectly fine with that considering that probably meant a few months at least. Breathing out, I continue practicing sword forms. My current clothing, since my old one was torn to shit apparently, consists of a simple grey shirt with a pair of long black pants and dark green sneakers. Practice makes perfect even if I have the Gamer Ability. Plus it leveled up ranks in the Swordsmanship Skill I have.

[Basic Swordsmanship Leveled up: 5≫6]
​

Speaking of which. Yet another level-up for the skill. I put away the wooden training sword into my inventory. Let's see… I should probably continue talking to Ruby and Yang, hang out with them more. Maybe I could try getting my Social Link Rank up with Taiyang? Eh, I think I can take my time on that. I'm still young and I don't think he wants me to deal with his issues. I can tell the man is still broken up over Summer dying. If there was one thing I'd learned in my life, it's that grief isn't something you rush through. Might need to… no, I can't bring her back. That's not an option even if I was able to. I know she'd love to come back but bringing back someone from the Dead could cause more problems than it's worth. At the same time, does she want that? Does she really wanna come back from whatever afterlife exists here in Remnant? I might need to look into that later. A quest menu pops up but I instantly l close it without looking at it. I don't need to think about that. For now, there's other things to think about. I suppose I'll have to head back to the house and just hang out with Yang and Ruby. I have no new side-quests to do since people don't need help all of the time on Patch. Walking back, I see Qrow sitting out front… with a fairly young girl. She seems to be about one year younger than me to boot from what I can see. Her hair was long and white, she had soft honey brown eyes. Silently, I use a particular skill to get a read on her Stats. Gotta admit, bit of an odd name change from Scan but I like it no less.

[Libra (LVL 5): When used, scans the target for information. Can be leveled high enough to detect more things]

[Name: Roselyn Hollis]
[Race: Human]
[Title: Spring Maiden]
[HP: 120/120]
[AP: 106/106 {Dormant}]
[MP: 112/112]
[STR: 7]
[END: 10]
[SPD: 8]
[INT: 6]
[WIS: 3]
[CHR: 12]
[LCK: 5]

…Qrow found the Spring Maiden. I didn't expect him to actually do that. I didn't expect he'd actually be able to find her with his Bad Luck. Unless… I looked over at him, noticing silently he had a grim expression. Yep, something bad happened when he was getting her. Great. Not exactly surprised that me doing something caused an event to happen. Butterfly effect and all that. Stepping forward, I caught their attention. Seeing her flinch isn't exactly a good sign of her doing well. Alright, let's see what that new Charisma stat will do for me this time.
"Heya. I'm Ash Lowell, you might have heard of me from the guy over there before arriving here." I say simply
Better. Definitely better compared to the other times. Roselyn flinches a little before softly nodding. She doesn't really seem ready to open up, and I wasn't about to force it. I looked at her with an understanding expression. I don't think I need to talk too much about what happened. After all, I know what it's like to have something horrible happen to you and then people asking you what went down. It's never a comfortable feeling to go through at almost any age. Not to mention the fact that Qrow seems pretty shaken up by it also considering everything. And when a man like Qrow is shaken up by something? You know something serious has gone down.
"I'm… not gonna ask about what happened. But I am gonna ask this… what is your name?" I say, extending my hand
"I-I'm… Roselyn Hollis. Nice to meet you…" Roselyn said, shaking my hand as her voice trailed off
"...Do either of you want a hug?" I ask as I extend my arms out
Wordlessly, Roselyn hugs me tight. I hugged her tightly in return, letting her cry it out for as long as she needed. Poor girl. She must have really had to face something horrible. Especially considering how tightly she was hugging me at the moment. I've been hugged by a good amount of people… but never this tightly after a bad situation. I mouth to Qrow 'tell me what happened later' to which he gave an understanding nod. I'm not gonna ask her about it but I am gonna ask him about it. Because it's pretty obvious something pretty bad went down while I wasn't looking. Not to mention asking a traumatized child rarely, if ever, works out well. Qrow's an adult, he'll be able to explain it better anyway. After a bit of letting the girl get her emotions out by hugging me, she was crying a lot to put it mildly, I gently patted her back in a comforting manner.
"Do you two wanna watch a movie with me and some other people?" I ask softly
"I-I'd like that." Roselyn said softly, breaking off the hug
The least I could do was offer her a bit of comfort. Honestly a dark part of me realized I could easily kill Roselyn without her realizing but I quickly, and very swiftly, quashed that thought of potential Classes with overwhelming vitriol. While my life might be a game, I'm not gonna exactly play it like one. There's no reason to be killing innocent people, even if there's a possible reward for it. After we entered inside, Ruby and Yang appeared. Instantly heading over to me with Roselyn standing behind me, a bit shy. Don't blame her for not wanting much social interaction.
"Ash, who is the new girl?" Yang asked curiously
"Are they a new friend?" Ruby asked a little excited
"The girl is named Roselyn. She's… someone that I asked your uncle to help find for me. Good friend of mine from where I lived for a while before ending up here at Patch." I say, lying partially
Roselyn looks at me confused before I whisper to her 'Play along, they'll not ask too many questions'. She then nods in confirmation. As expected, Yang and Ruby accepted the answer without any question. I can understand why they did, kids at this age are generally pretty trusting. Especially since I'm about their age and have no real reason to lie to them in their eyes. It's not exactly great but sometimes you have to tell a little white lie in order to get anywhere. If I've learned anything, it's that some things aren't ready to be talked about for a long while. Not to mention I'd rather they not ask about what happened to Roselyn, I get the feeling that'll just hurt her more than it'll help. Speaking from personal experience, trauma isn't something that can be dealt with easily.
"Well, it's nice to meet you Roselyn." Yang said with a small grin
"I'm Ruby! This is Yang." Ruby said, introducing themselves
"No fair, I wanted to introduce myself." Yang said pouting a little
"Well I was just planning on watching a movie with them. You guys want to join?" I ask
Yang and Ruby instantly nod, raising my relationship with them. Roselyn smiles appreciatively at me since I know she'd probably not really want to direct the conversation at the moment considering the fact that she's not exactly in the best state for talking. Frankly that's a feeling that I can relate to. Had my fair share of moments that were pretty bad where I just didn't wanna talk for a bit. I know Qrow is most likely sitting outside, drinking and trying to grapple with what happened. I'll have to make sure to talk to him later after the movie. Luckily, Taiyang managed to help get everything set-up. Even as a kid again, I still struggle with technology. Then again considering how different the technology in this world is. I wouldn't exactly blame me anyway… eh at least this bootleg Disney movie is nice.

---

After the movie ended, it was clear they were all fairly tired. Yang stretched slightly before rubbing her eyes while Ruby let out a yawn, barely able to keep her head up. Roselyn, who had decided to rest her head on my lap, looked on the verge of sleep. Her eyes drooped with every passing second. I'd be fairly tired too if it weren't for the fact that even when I was young, I was a ball of energy. It was something some people found annoying but some found endearing. Thinking back on it, I made some pretty good friends that way. I smile softly to them, ruffling Roselyn's hair a little.
"Alright, looks like bedtime for you four." I said with a small chuckle
So I simply helped tuck them into sleep with Taiyang's help. They didn't object after I explained that I said I wanted to do a few more things and don't mind being alone. Yang and Ruby accepted it, I made sure to give Roselyn a little kiss on the head before she fell asleep. The kiss on her head had immediately made her relax since she was, currently, a bit tense about me leaving since I was already so nice. Can't say it isn't valid, I'd probably be a bit tense about someone leaving also when they've been a big source of comfort also at this age. Though I have a feeling that my efforts are very much appreciated. Especially since I got this notification as a result.

[Relationship with Roselyn Hollis has improved]

Frankly it's a little obvious that giving someone kindness after a traumatic experience would result in that sort of notification. It was nice to see that I was giving her some form of kindness after everything she's been through. People generally deserve kindness is a pretty firm belief of mine after all. Of course, remembering that I don't know what happened, I told Tai this as I was heading for the door with a more stoic expression.
"I'm gonna talk to Qrow about what happened with Roselyn. It was something we planned on."
"...He'll probably be at the bar getting drunk knowing him. How bad was it?" Taiyang asks
"Considering he and Roselyn all seemed a little shook up? Pretty bad." I say bluntly
"Just… don't get too mad at him if he's not being exactly nice." Taiyang requests softly
"I'm a pretty understanding dude. Don't worry about it." I say with a resolute expression
After that, I find my way down to the town not too far from here. It's a fairly nice town, fairly simple too. Patch wasn't a big place, but after a month of running errands and training here, I'd learned its streets well. Especially where the bar is since I know that's where some people would head. Walking over to it, I notice a fairly large bodyguard standing outside. He was a broad-shouldered man with his arms crossed over his chest like a human barricade. He regarded me with a neutral expression as I approached. I stare at him impassively as a response, knowing I'd need to cut the bullshit and niceties for this one.
"...Here to pick up Qrow Branwen from inside there. No, I am not interested in alcohol. Yes, I'm being honest. Alcohol tastes terrible from what I can tell." I say bluntly
"...Straight to the point. I like that, alright I'll pick him up for ya." The bodyguard says a bit surprised
"Thanks, I appreciate it." I say with a grateful nod
"Eh. It's no problem. Town knows how much of a drunken dumbass he is sometimes whenever he comes by here." The bodyguard says, lightly shrugging before walking inside
I forget how easily people keep some information in mind in small towns like this. Didn't exactly grow up in a small town in my old life and only ever heard of that sort of thing. Then again I've learned long ago at this point the truth is sometimes stranger than fiction. Qrow's drinking habit wasn't exactly a secret anyway so I really shouldn't be too surprised with that. Regardless, the large burly man walks in and comes back out after a minute or so with a drunk Qrow over his shoulder like he was a sack of potatoes. The fact that he can easily pick-up a Huntsman like that means that he drank a lot. He then tosses Qrow onto the ground, Harbinger landing next to him with a slight clunk. I glanced up at the bodyguard as the drunken Huntsman in front of me groaned slightly.
"Thanks. Tell your grandma I said hi, Beryl." I say simply
"Ah, you're that dude who helped her out… aight. I'll make sure to do that." The bodyguard says with somewhat of a warm tone. Made a good impression I think
Soon after, he walks back into the bar. Presumably to let the bartender know I was taking Qrow back. Makes sense all things considered. Sighing, I turn over onto his back. Took a bit of effort but it wasn't super hard. Then I raised my hand… before promptly using a Mist Spray, at lower power mind you, to spritz water into his face. Soon after he sat out, spitting some of the water as he looked a bit less drunk than before. Good to know that method works, will be using that whenever possible.
"Glad to see you didn't die of alcohol poisoning while I wasn't looking." I say sarcastically
"Ugh… was that really necessary?" Qrow asks annoyed
"Yes. It was. Because right now, we need to talk." I say, crossing my arms
"...Kid, if this is about Roselyn. Can it wait till the world's a bit less blurry?" Qrow says, his words slurring a little
"...Right, let me do this." I say, putting a hand on Qrow's shoulder
I then cast Cleanse which doesn't completely cure his drunk status but lessened it enough to where he'd be able to talk and think a bit more clearly. I'm not gonna waste time and wait for him to sober up, possibly deciding to 'conveniently' not tell me the information. I know he'd be honest with me but I also know he'd probably avoid talking about it whenever possible. Blinking and noticing the sudden amount of soberness looked at me confused before giving a deadpan expression of realization.
"You used your Magic to make me more sober." He states gruffly, resignation in his voice
"Yeah. I did. Now. Explain what the hell happened out there." I say with clear annoyance
Qrow sighed, rubbing his temples before nodding slowly. I can get why he's none too enthused by doing it. Given how drunk he was when I found him, I wouldn't have been surprised if he planned to drink himself into oblivion. Not to mention all of the implications of the situation from his attitude and Roselyn's current state of emotion. But that's not gonna help anyone out right now. Especially him.
"Put it simply… my Semblance activated at a bad time and well… there was a big attack that happened. Grimm. Was a nasty event and I had to help fend some of them off. The kids' parents were some of the casualties and Roselyn only managed to survive because the previous Spring Maiden, the one you sent me to find, had transferred her power to do so. It… wasn't enough to keep her brother safe. Body wasn't found but… it was clear he probably didn't survive." Qrow explains
"...No wonder she was acting that way. Poor girl. At least you got her out of there." I say, my tone growing sympathetic
"Yeah, mostly because the rest of the town didn't like the Hollis family. I kinda suspect they didn't really put much effort into finding her brother's body after it was all said and done. Hell, I'm pretty sure the previous Spring Maiden was the only one that cared about them." Qrow says softly
I give a sharp exhale at that information. Well that answers that question. Honestly, I have to admit, having a Bad Luck Semblance activated in that way is really horrible. Especially considering this event may have also partially been my fault thanks to all of my interventions. In the end; I'm just gonna have to do my best to try and help deal with these events more personally in the future. It's pretty clear just asking people to do favors like this is gonna cause more pain than anything unless things just so happen to turn out well. Qrow then stood up abruptly, swaying slightly on his feet before turning toward the bar. I immediately stopped him by grabbing on his cape and yanking it with enough force to make him stumble. Because of that, he turns and looks at me with an angry scowl.
"Kid. I answered your questions. Now let me go get drunk so I can forget the fact my Semblance just caused more pain… again." He says, saying the last part under his breath
"...Qrow, I need you to understand something right now. And I'm only saying this because you need to hear it." I say as a response
He turned to me fully, his crimson eyes narrowing. Something that would make most people back off. Fortunately for me, I am not like most people. I am someone with an Adult's mind inside of a younger body. And I'm pretty sure there's only one other person on Remnant that would have any sort of right to say that happened to them at one point. That aside, I know that what I'm gonna say isn't exactly a good idea. I damn well know that it'll anger him quite a bit. Hell it'll probably not make my relationship great with him but he really needs to hear this. Because frankly? The route he's going will be bad if I just keep letting himself drink like this. I'd seen where this path led before basically, never allowing that to happen again.
"You need to quit feeling so damn sorry for yourself." I say in a blunt harsh tone
Qrow's expression twisted with anger, indignant and raw. It honestly made me flinch a little internally, the stare he was giving me was a man who was in no mood to be criticized after dealing with a bunch of terrible stuff. Don't blame him for any of it but his attitude about it and the way he's going about it is unhealthy at best. Self-destructive to the point of pointless tragedy at worst. And like I said, never letting that happen again.
"Watch it brat." He growls
He tries to get up but stumbles slightly, falling back onto his ass. Instead he just grabs Harbinger and just sheathes it on his person once again. Good thing he isn't the type to attack kids, otherwise he'd probably be beating the crap out of me. Not to mention we didn't even spar when he was training me, he just gave me advice on forms and such. Still, regardless of the angry stares he was giving me, I wasn't gonna back down on this. This wasn't something I was gonna let go and let him go off to get drunk again.
"You… you don't understand what I've been through." Qrow mutters, belching slightly from all the alcohol still in his system
…Normally, I wouldn't let a line like that get to me. I'd have probably tried to brush it off in any other situation. Done that sort of thing before back in my old life after all. But staring at this man, someone so many people cared about, someone who refused to see it… it's something that is very much pissing me off. My expression twists into a scowl, my eyes narrowing slightly at him.
"...Alright, let me summarize from what I can see." I say curtly
I gestured at him, unimpressed. Considering the state he's in? He looks less like one of the most Badass Huntsman on Remnant and looks more like a drunk who's just barely getting by in life. That's not a good look at all frankly. Especially since what I do know about him. No wonder some people have a hard time believing that he's one of Ozpin's closest agents, he barely looked like it sometimes. Acting like it? I'm not gonna judge on that but looking the part for the position? That's sometimes a little important.
"I see a man who's lost too much, was betrayed by someone close to him, and is always on the verge of overdrinking because he thinks his Semblance just makes him a walking disaster." I say, my tone remaining level and even
Qrow flinched, his frown deepening, most likely because I did actually hit the nail on the head. I then gesture to the area around us. Frankly it's impressive he hasn't had someone punch him in the face with how he values the sweet nectar of drink and forgetting the bad stuff instead of trying to heal from it. Then again I wouldn't be surprised if I heard from him at some point a few stories of getting into various bar fights with patrons because he spoke some shit to them.
"And now, he's lying on the ground outside some bar. Drunk, soaked, and getting lectured by a kid who, might I add, is acting more mature than he is." I continue with a glare
Qrow winced again. An understandable reaction. If I were in his position, I'd be mortified too. Even if I was almost twenty-one years old before I died, I'd still feel embarrassed if a seven-year-old called me out like this. Especially if I was a mechashift wielding badass and the personal spymaster to an immortal wizard. That, particularly, would make it all the worse.
"Tell me, what part of any of that makes me not think you scream 'I feel sorry for myself'?" I say with some biting sarcasm
Silence stretched between us. Qrow is looking down at the ground. Seemingly struggling between choosing either his wounded pride or reluctantly agreeing with the fact that I do have a point. Hell if it was someone else in his position, he'd be acting the same damn way. It's a valid point. He's getting himself lost in the drink and is now getting criticized, again by a seven-year-old, in the middle of a public area as it's slowly getting closer and closer to evening.
"I get it. It may not seem like it. But I do." I say, getting his attention
"...How the hell do you even get it?" Qrow asks me as some bitterness enters his tone
I roll my eyes at that. I'm not surprised he probably forgot that piece of information. It's something I don't exactly bring up too often nor did he ask much about it. But still, he probably should have kept that in mind. Not to mention the fact that there's also a lot of other information I haven't given him about myself anyway. I give him a harsh glare.
"Newsflash. I died in my previous life, asshole. And I know that's still hard to believe but let me tell you something? Stab wounds? They suck. I got stabbed too deep after saving someone." I say darkly
Qrow winced yet again. And I did mean it. Frankly, part of me regrets saving that person at the cost of my own goddamn life but at the same time. I acknowledge that if I didn't do it, no one would have. Bystander syndrome and all that. And I'd honestly do it again even if I knew I wasn't gonna have a new life waiting for me afterward. Still, my point stands. I very much get how life can be shitty. It's a perspective that, quite obviously, I have a pretty good grasp of.
"And you know, I still miss my family. I know I can't ever see them again. And I've made my bed with that." I admitted
I breathe softly, thinking about it. I know that simple statement isn't gonna convince him… not to mention that I do genuinely get how he feels in some regards. Hell as I've grown older and dealt with bad shit? I get how Qrow feels sometimes. It's not exactly easy to deal with that sort of thing. I sighed, running a hand through my hair. One of my wolf ears twitching slightly.
"...But there's other things I've had to make my bed with. You know?" I say
Qrow gives me a surprised expression at that before looking more softly. It's that soft look that more or less empathizes with that. I'm not surprised that he would have to make his bed with a lot of things in his life. His lot in life isn't exactly great even from what the show did tell the viewers about. If he didn't have to make his peace with a lot of things in life, I'd either be pretty damn surprised or think he's a liar.
"My dad wasn't around… and I knew where he lived. Hell, he would gladly want us to be around… if it weren't for the fact he was in and out of jail, constantly gave any rooms he had personally set-up for us to his numerous girlfriends kids, his drunkenness, and the fact he wasn't exactly a fucking pleasant person to be around generally." I say with bitterness
I give a small shrug upon noticing Qrow's concern about that. His gaze sharpened at the mention of alcohol. Don't exactly blame him for thinking I'd have some pretty deep bitterness. There was a lot of deep bitterness related to that. But like I said before, I've had to make my bed with that. It's something I've had to deal with a long long time ago at this point.
"I had to make my bed with that for years since I knew what he was like for a long time… my sister didn't." I say, looking down at the ground slightly
I let the words hang in the air for a moment before Qrow realizes what I mean. He frowns more. Crimson eyes once again narrowing as I can tell there was a flicker of recognition. Wouldn't be surprised if he had seen this sort of thing before. Live long enough in some jobs and you meet a lot of people.
"Oh… oh no." He says simply
I just give a soft nod of confirmation as a response. Thinking about it, I do have to admire my sister's determination to get to know our father. Even for all of the bad aspects of him that I knew, she was willing to look past that for all of the good parts. Something that I think can be admired a little in some regards at the very least. It's just a shame that… I shook my head, getting rid of those thoughts before continuing.
"Almost abandoned her in another place because they had a big-ass argument once. Hundreds of miles away. With barely anyone, besides my father and his wife at the time, to help her out." I say, anger rising within me
My hands are tightly clenched into fists as I recall that moment. The phone calls, the angered conversation, how I especially felt at the time. It was a horrible moment. I still wanna punch him in the face for pulling that shit. I take a calming breath… before continuing. Anger still lingering within me.
"Thank GOD my dad's wife wasn't an insane bitch this time around. Feel sorry she got married to the bastard. All the other girlfriends he's weren't great people to say the least." I say, frustration in my voice
Qrow stares at me, looking somewhat amazed. Considering the implication that this was years back in my old life. It's not exactly much of a surprise to hear that I managed to deal with all of that and lie my anger with it to rest. And I did. I really managed to despite how much I still feel about those situations. The fact that they happened was horrible… but I'm not gonna let the person who caused that take any more headspace then they have to.
"...And you made your peace with all of that?" He asked, bringing me out of my thoughts
I just give a shrug in response. "Had enough time to do so. And I didn't have much choice. It was either feeling sorry for myself because my dad wasn't around or getting up. Brushing myself off. And moving the fuck on." I say pointedly
In response, the Huntsman just nods. I can get that some parts of this are not exactly something he wants to hear from a seven-year-old of all people but at the same time. I'm not exactly a normal seven-year-old anyway. So it's a moot point in a lot of regards when one gets down to it. Then again thinking about it for a brief moment, there's far more disturbing things kids have gone through before. So again, moot point.
"So yeah. Qrow. I get it. Your life has, objectively speaking, kinda sucked in some regards. I know you lost people and I'm not gonna ask about that." I say truthfully
I then gesture to the bar, making him look at it briefly with a grimace. He's probably sobered up enough at this point to realize his reaction to all of this was probably not the best considering everything that I've explained thus far. I'd grimace and cringe at myself too. It's stuff like this why I was reluctant to drink alcohol anyway and would rather avoid touching it if at all possible.
"But you can't keep drinking like this." I say softly
For a moment, he doesn't say anything. Then he looks back at me, still grimacing, like he's chewing on something bitter. I have a feeling I know what he's about to say. Wouldn't blame him if he did. It's not exactly something I'd be chomping at the bit to deal with. Not to mention the fact it's a pretty common piece of info when it comes to the sorts of things that he has to deal with.
"...My Semblance is Bad Luck… no matter where I go. It's gonna follow me. I can't even control it." Qrow says with some bitterness
"Have you tried?" I respond with
Qrow just gives a scoff. Though if I'm getting his personality just right. I get the feeling that he's not exactly telling me the whole truth in that regard. Especially considering that Semblances are part of the soul. And if they're part of the soul, that means they can be controlled. It's not like Stands where sometimes they can do whatever they want or some Personas in Persona 3 where they can go berserk and attack people. No, it's a part of the soul that can be controlled.
"Yeah, of course I've tried." He says annoyed
May as well test that theory since, gonna be honest, I don't believe him. Not one bit. Maybe he's put in some effort, but I doubt he's actually considered all the angles. Can't be mad at it since it's not like growing up in a bandit tribe came with a great education. Bandit Camps aren't known for having good education at best and any real knowledge of the world at worst. Skyrim has taught me that fact very very well… then again that is a video game so can't rely too much on that line of logic for this. Tangent, that's another tangent. Refocusing myself after a small moment. I say this in a questioning tone.
"Have you meditated on it? Sat down and tried to figure out what triggers it? Have you put any real effort into understanding how it works?"
He was about to blow my words off but hesitates, blinking as my words settle in. The air goes quiet as something clicks in his mind. Wouldn't be surprised if he didn't consider that angle. Again, being raised as a Bandit doesn't offer you much of a chance to think on things. Beacon probably opened his mind up a bit more but some parts are most likely still stuck in that mindset. I already had a pretty distinct feeling it'd be an uphill battle as it is.
"...Why are you being detailed about this?" Qrow questions, frowning
I look at him with an eyebrow raise. Even a normal seven-year-old that's gotten a bit too mature for his age would probably be able to make the exact same sort of thought process I had. It's not exactly hard to figure out how Qrow thinks. Because as badass and enigmatic-seeming as the man is, there's a lot of things that are pretty plainly written when seen up close.
"Because, and if you don't mind, I'm gonna make another guess." I say blandly
Before he could say anything, I just stated this in a blunt voice "You think that if you can't get something right on instinct, it means you're just broken, don't you?"
In response, he was about to argue over that statement before the words died in his mouth as he thought about it more. Yeah. That sounds about right. In my eyes, strikes me as the type who was told to get things down perfectly on the first try or else he'd practically be useless. Didn't help that Raven seems like the prodigy type either.
"...I… okay that's… huh." He says in slight realization
The silence between us turns awkward as the weight of it all sinks in. The idea that he'd spent most of his life believing he just had to live with his Semblance was just going to never be controllable, when in fact he had been going about it the wrong way was something that probably hit hard. After a moment, he clears his throat before looking at me.
"...Kid, how the hell are you so aware of stuff?" He asks
"In my old life, I studied a lot of psychology since… it was important." I say with a simple shrug
He stares at me for a long moment, then sighs and flops onto his back, gazing up at the sky with a dead inside expression before muttering. "...I'm talking to a seven year old about my personal issues. I'm sitting here. Soaked in water after going on a small bender… talking to a seven year old about my issues."
I sat next to him. Frankly I don't exactly blame him for saying that. I'd probably feel a little dead inside if a seven-year-old just psychoanalyzed me and pointed out exactly where I was screwing myself over. Not to mention probably a bit devastating to my pride as a man in some regards. Eh, he'll get over it. After all, I am trying to help him be better and help him improve on himself a little bit.
"Look… I know I was a bit rough with what I said but I do mean it. You can't look at your Semblance or some parts of your personality and say 'Man I just suck constantly'." I say softly
I glance at him, and after a beat, he turns his head to meet my gaze. "You need to try your best to handle everything. Hell talk to Ozpin. He'll understand exactly how you're feeling." I say with utmost seriously
Qrow hums, mulling it over. Most likely debating on the idea of talking to the immortal about his issues. I don't blame him for hesitating on going with that particular idea. I'm not exactly keen on talking to Ozpin about my own issues either. But that's probably going to be my best suggestion. No way in hell I'd suggest anyone talking to Ironwood about personal stuff, he doesn't exactly seem like the emotionally-smart or even emotionally-stable type of person.
"I mean yeah he probably will, Headmaster of a school. Been a Huntsman for a long while." He says, choosing his words carefully
"...Yeah, exactly." I say, playing along
After a few moments of silence, Qrow and I begin walking back to Taiyang's. It was starting to get a little late at this point and it's pretty obvious that the dusty old crow didn't exactly plan out a motel room for him to stay in. Not to mention the fact that me walking back alone, even with magical powers, isn't exactly a good look for a Huntsman. Despite the fact he probably isn't exactly looking good anyway due to being lectured by a seven-year-old on his drinking problem. Eh, semantics.
"So… uh… thanks. For talking to me. I know this wasn't exactly easy for you-" "Don't thank me Qrow." I say, cutting him off sharply
I just gave a soft sigh as the silence that follows is thick. My tone could've been better. I know that. But at this point; I've long since grown-tired of folks acting like me talking about old wounds isn't the same as reopening them. It's something I think a lot of people that have dealt with some of the things I have and have dealt with have most likely felt the same also.
"...I've learned long ago that the shit I've dealt with? I can use that experience to help others. Even if they're older than me." I say simply
Qrow doesn't say anything after that but I know he heard me. I smile a little at that, knowing that maybe… just maybe. I might have helped him in a way. I glance over and see a menu pop up next to me.

[Qrow - The Dusty Crow (Tower): 1≫2]

…Honestly, I think this is way more than just a victory related to getting a rank up. I do actually feel closer with him… and that's nice.

---

And that's another chapter posted. So for anyone curious, yeah I did have my own spin on what happened with the Spring Maiden this time around. I think the Maiden's are a neat concept. I plan on doing quite a bit with that frankly. Interesting plot thread that could be used.

Now for the scene with Qrow. I'll explain it simply as 'Sometimes, you gotta be a lot more blunt and a bit more of an ass to get a point across'. Though if anyone feels like things are moving a bit quickly in terms of character introduction and the chance that it's gonna get very bloated during this initial arc for this particular story. Don't worry, it's gonna slow down quite a bit soon. Lot more side-characters, lot less main-characters.

With that, I'll see you all around.

 

[DracoStar12]

Chapter 4: Education & Dungeons: School Days

So… going back to school at a young age is pretty weird. Don't get me wrong, I'm aware I'd have to attend school again not only because having an education in a lot of worlds is important but also because of appearances. At the same time, never really was the type to look fondly back upon my school days. Mostly because as much as I enjoyed being in school? Some parts weren't great. I'm willing to put it aside, however, due to the fact that in a lot of ways. This really is for the best. Of course there was one thing that hit me like a sack of bricks. Weapons training started when you were thirteen years old. I forget that for how young Ruby was when she entered Beacon, everyone else was either eighteen or above. So, of course, they wouldn't start training this young either. For now, I was just a normal student. At the same time, however, it feels weird attending school as a normal person. Currently, I'm sitting next to Roselyn, Ruby, and Yang at lunch. Idly, I was eating a sandwich that was packed for me by Taiyang. He's a pretty good cook. It's been about two months since my conversation with Qrow. Summer vacation, which was going on apparently, ended and now… I have a new schedule. Frankly, this'll probably be a weird period of my life but I'll manage.
"Is everything okay Ash?" Roselyn asks me softly
"...Yeah, just thinking." I say with a light shrug
Frankly, I already alienated myself from some of the kids because I act too mature. Not to mention the fact I'm a huge nerd and have been mostly reading in the library lately. To be fair, running around and playing on a playground doesn't exactly feel right considering how old I am mentally and spiritually. Roselyn softly nods before continuing to eat her lunch, not pushing the topic. As she does so, I silently open my menu with a little mental command. Since using a hand gesture to open it would be sort of awkward right here and now. Discretion is the better part of valor as they say.

[{Status}]
[Name: Ash Lowell]
[Class(es): Red Mage, Spellblade]
[Race: Faunus - Wolf]
[Level: 7]
[HP: 275/275]
[AP: 219/219]
[MP: 198/198]
[STR: 20]
[END: 25]
[SPD: 19]
[INT: 14]
[WIS: 17]
[CHR: 21]
[LCK: 11]

Thinking about it. I am actually kind of curious about my Semblance… or, alternatively, what I can use Aura for. Since I haven't thought of too many applications. Aura was the foundation of a Huntsman's abilities, and while I had a decent grasp of the basics, I hadn't put in some effort into looking into its true potential. Frankly, with the Classes I have, I could easily be able to use them as a sort of base for some sort of ability. A framework that, when used, will allow me to play something off as my Semblance. Randomly using Fire is strange but using Fire because of a Semblance is a lot less strange. It's something that could work pretty well in my opinion. After that thought, a Menu pops into my vision.

[|Quest gained|]
[{Aura Experiment}]
[-Explanation: You've decided to experiment with your Aura. There's a lot of options but you'll be able to do something with it with the right levels.]
[-Objective 1: Level up WIS to 30]
[-Objective 2: Level up INT to 30]
[-Objective 3: Get to Level 10 or over]
[Rewards: x1 Class Token, Unlocks ? System, gain Perk: Mana Infusion]
[Failure: Nothing]
​

I notice like some other Quests, I can reject doing this… I mean considering the Rewards are pretty good? Yeah I'll accept it. The rewards are too good to pass up to reject it even if there was a failure condition. Soon after, the menu is closed. Alright, so basically level up Wisdom and Intelligence to 30 while getting my level up to 10 at least? That doesn't seem too hard. Just need to study a lot of things, think a lot about what I'm supposed to do, and just work hard at it. There's no really good shortcuts aside from level-ups and the thing is, those Stat Points are useful in other Stats generally. I can't risk a glass cannon build, not to mention I'm in a pretty safe area. So I don't have to worry all that much about getting this done quickly, at least until I'm around Beacon Age. Pacing myself properly is gonna be the real challenge since it'd be easy to fall into that temptation of dumping all of my Stat Points into Wisdom and Intelligence.

[For carefully planning out your route for a Quest, you get +1 WIS]
​

Sweet. One point closer to the goal is always good. After this, I'm going to the library and taking some time to study. Plus I can always rent out books or just read what Taiyang has. Yang notices my smirk at something and smirks at me back. Okay, time to make excuses. Not gonna reveal that I have the Gamer ability for a long time. It's something I'd rather not deal with talking about immediately.
"What are you smirking about?" She asks
"Just thinking some ideas that are gonna be pretty cool. Some stuff is coming together." I say easily
"...Alright, keep your secrets." Yang says with an easygoing shrug
"Ooooh are you scheming something cool?" Ruby asks a bit excited
"It's a secret, as Yang mentioned~" I say playfully
"Awwww. Well if it involves a cool weapon idea. Tell me!" Ruby says with valor in her tone
Heh, even at this age she was an adorable dork about weapons. I simply say with ease. "If it is, I'll be sure to let you know."
"Yes!" Ruby hisses happily
I give a chuckle at the reaction alongside Yang with the little Red Reaper laughing along soon after. Roselyn particularly giggled at the general tone of the conversation. It's nice to see her recovering from everything that happened. It's… strange. Right now this life is so much more different then the one I lived. I was a bit of a socially awkward kid, so I didn't have these sorts of events too often. But now with my more social butterfly personality? The pace feels odd. It feels surreal knowing that, in this world of Bloody Evolution, I was making my own life. Even with the Gamer Ability. It didn't feel like I was doing this for a quest… it felt like something else. I barely even noticed the menu pop beside me with information that, in all honesty, just makes this feel all the warmer.

[{Relationship Updated}]
[Yang Xiao Long: Acquainted]
[Ruby Rose: Acquainted]
[Roselyn Hollis: Acquainted]
[{Social Link Rank Up}]
[Yang - The Sunlit Dragon (Chariot): 0≫1]
[Ruby- The Reaper Of Roses (Star): 0≫1]
[Roselyn - The Maiden Of Thorns (Priestess): 0≫1]

---

Breathing in and out, I keep my focus. Putting any stray thoughts into a mental box before putting that mental box, compartmentalizing parts of my mind. Letting the world flow around me. My mind entirely focused on my Aura as it swirls around inside of me. Meditation has been an important part of my routine. After getting about three points in Intelligence, not a lot I know but progress is progress, I decided to take some time to meditate since not a lot was going on. I set a timer on my COMP, which I currently have equipped, for two hours. A pretty good amount of time to meditate if I say so myself. After a bit of time, I managed to convince Taiyang I had managed to build the COMP myself out of some parts and have only been really using it in select areas seeing as it'd be odd for me to easily carry it around. I push aside those memories for a moment before continuing to meditate. Breathing in… and then out. In… and then out. Over and over again… before the alarm goes off. Jolting me out of my meditative state. I relax as a menu pops up in front of me. Confirming that my efforts did actually work.

[For meditating for two hours, you get +6 Wisdom]
​

Nice, only nine points off from getting to the level needed. Now to try and get to level 10. The best way for me to do that would be to do things. Like fighting Grimm, doing Quests, or killing things. Now for that last part, that doesn't mean killing people. It means killing animals. Like bunnies, deer, etcetera, etcetera. I do remember some folks that were my age going on Hunting Trips with their family back in my world so in this world, it isn't too different to hear that someone's kid went out hunting for some deer for fun. Especially if it was to train them to be a Huntsman or Huntress since what's a safer target then Grimm? Animals. Of course some people probably have used that as a thinly veiled excuse to hunt Faunus but that's an ENTIRELY different thing that I don't wanna think about as a Faunus myself. Let's see… well I'm not exactly close to leveling up. Not sure how much EXP is required for each level up but I know it'll get higher and higher. Meaning that my level ups will have to come from more and more effort. So I'll have to go out and hunt some Animals. I'd normally use a gun or a sword but Magic will do… and before anything. I do actually take the bodies and give them to some people in Patch. I mostly shock them to death. Though I do it under the guise of Taiyang having been the one to do it simply because it's less suspicious… though when I'm about thirteen or fourteen I should be fine doing it myself. Before I was about to sneak off into the forest, since it was getting near night, I noticed Taiyang sitting in the living room in front of the TV… with a few beer bottles around him. Great, he's drinking. I can already guess why. I take a moment to sneak near him… and notice that he has a pretty glassy gaze with a bottle with about… half of the beer drank out of it. Yeah he drank a lot. I just give a sigh under my breath before softly casting Cleanse on him a few times. Making sure to clean the alcohol out of his system just enough to where he'd be a bit more sober. Even with that half a beer, I doubt he'll be drinking anymore with how tired he looks… I'm gonna need to have Qrow talk to him about this. Satisfied that he won't drink himself into a stupor, I then sneak out into the forest. Killing a few deer and a few rabbits. Gaining me a fair amount of EXP, about enough that there's a quarter of the gauge yet to be filled. I sneak back in, making sure to head past the collapsed Taiyang. He probably won't remember much and will be happy to not have much of a hang-over. I head back into the guest room. The one that me and Roselyn are currently staying in. We're both sleeping in some cots since that's probably the best option for the both of us. Softly smiling, I make sure to adjust Roselyn's blanket before kissing her head softly. I then silently crawl into my bed before looking up at the ceiling. Idly thinking. My thoughts are swirling around in my head. There's a lot I can do with the information, valuable information no less, that I have… but how much of it can I properly use? There's not a lot I can do to prevent some fates as is. I mean Neopolitan and Torchwick are dealing with so many things far outside of my scope. I can't have someone rescue Cinder from her family. Same with Mercury. No clue where Emerald is possibly hiding out. Tyrian is probably by now working for Salem, not like I could kill him anyway. Telling Atlas about Watts being alive is right out since that'd make me look suspicious as fuck. Realistically speaking the best thing I can do is try and play the cards I do have right. Up and leaving right now could do me some good. But it's not like I can do much else… unless. I then raise a hand, channeling magic through it with a clear thought.
"...Instant Dungeon. Activate." I whisper
Soon after, the world around me shifts and dissolves into a vast blue void, a grid of glowing white lines stretching infinitely in all directions. I then grin like a mad-man. The Instant Dungeon Skill. Something that quite a few Gamers have. Some of them don't have them due to the circumstances of their world or the fact that, in some ways, opening up a dungeon easily is overpowered. In my case, I know the dungeon won't be super powerful. Since I have a feeling if I look at the skill real quick.

[Instant Dungeon (LVL 1): Allows you to create an Instant Dungeon. Without a proper material used, it will be simply a 'Blank Dungeon' or simply a Training Space. Time flows in the Blank Dungeon the same as the real world. (Dungeons made with items can be registered as a Sub-Part of the Skill)]

An Item Cost. That's going to be the bottleneck. Luckily, that Dust I have should be pretty useful in what I can do. Not to mention the fact that, eventually, I'll most likely be able to get other items due to more mechanics unlocking later on. Since at this point, it's pretty clear that the Gamer Ability is going to segment what I can do out over the course of years, levels, and what actions I do. It's a system that prevents me from getting overpowered early while at the same time not being borderline useless unless I do a specific action like in some particular fics I've read once. Standing up from my spot, I hum. Okay. So I have some Fire Dust, some Ice Dust, and some Lightning Dust. None of those little side-quests I did gave me more Dust or any other items. So that means that this, more or less, is what I have to work with. I decide to be basic and use the Ice Dust since while using the one Lightning Dust I have could result in something interesting. Dealing with Ice would be preferable since I can at least bundle up to stay warm if it gets cold. Summoning the Dust Crystal into my hand, I channel the use of the Skill into it before opening up a new Dungeon. The world around me shifts and changes as the menu pops up again. Confirming the Dungeon.
[Ice Dungeon - Watching Woods (LVL 1): A Dungeon that contains a snow-filled forest. With many dangerous creatures and beings alike wandering around]

[OST Activated! Now playing: Watching Woods (Ice) Theme]
​

After a few moments, the menu closes with the world shifting into… a very dark forest. Shadows stretch unnaturally beneath the moonlight, and mist drifts between gnarled, frostbitten trees. The wind blows through my hair as I stand in the snow. Alone. I can tell there's illusionary eyes watching me from the forest. Thinking about it, maybe leaping into a Dungeon head-first without a weapon was a bad idea. I then notice that there's a set of blue almost ghostly flames leading me somewhere. Blinking, I stare for a moment before narrowing my eyes. Is this really trustworthy? After all, I know damn well that this is a Dungeon… and from what I can tell these woods are eerily familiar to me. Like I've been here before. After a moment, I decided to carefully follow the blue flames. If the worst comes to worst, I can run. Going down the trail. The sky above me is still dark as snow continues to rain down. I'm very lucky that this dungeon isn't inflicting me with a status effect… otherwise I'd be a lot more terrified. Stepping carefully, I keep following the wispy flames before arriving in a clearing with… faint moonlight shining upon something. A sword sticking out of the ground. Getting closer, I notice it's slightly rusted. Well, better than nothing. I grab the sword before pulling it out of the snow. I then examine it with Libra.

[Rusted Sword: A rusty sword found within the Watching Woods. Clearly more than what it seems. {Can only inflict 10 Damage. Does not scale. Can be Enchanted} (Unique Item)]

A unique item… and it can only ever do ten damage. Maybe with some effort, I can probably make this weapon a bit stronger? Sighing, I just keep the sword in my hand. I look around before deciding to carefully move through the forest. Holding the weapon in both hands. I'm here to fight Monsters. Not wonder about the possibilities of what a weapon can do. Not to mention, if necessary, I can boost it with the Spellblade Skill. Maybe even infuse it with an Element. After all, I'm getting the feeling I'm getting to a pretty good point with my Red Magic and Spellblade at Level 4. Repeated use of the Skill does count as leveling it after all and well… I've broken a lot of sticks using the Boosted Blade Spell. I continue my careful walking, my footsteps crunching under the snow… before I hear a groan. I turn around and see… a Drowned Soldier. But it has spikes of ice jutting out of its body. This is the Watching Woods from Salt & Sanctuary. But far more different considering how this place looks. Breathing out, I focus myself. Silently using Libra as the music playing mentally within my head shifts. A clear indication that the music is now changing.

[Battle Theme: Refantazio Combat]
​

[Name: Frostbitten Soldier]
[Race: Undead (Humanoid)]
[HP: 260/260]
[MP: 100/100]
[STR: 25]
[END: 20]
[SPD: 5]
[INT: 0]
[WIS: 0]
Undead… that means Healing Magic should be effective on it. Same with Light and Fire Magic. Luckily I've got the latter in spades. I cast Boosted Blade on my weapon before slashing the enemy making it stumble back. It groans before charging at me, swinging the axe down. Moving quickly, I block the strike before pushing it back. I jump back and cast Singe which makes it hiss, I then charge forward before slashing it again and again. Before I could get another swing, I'm knocked away by one particular strike. Leaving me without some health as I roll across the ground. Quickly recovering, I dodge an axe strike before casting Singe on it again. Doing more damage to it. Thus far I've lowered its health down to one hundred ninety-four. Not a bad effort from me thus far since I'm only doing twelve Damage physically and fifteen Damage with Singe. I then notice that my Red Magic Skill and Spellblade Skill is close to leveling up. I cast Boosted Blade onto my Sword again before jumping forward and slashing at it again. Making it groan once more. I make sure to quickly dodge a strike, barely being nicked by it before casting Singe again. Just a little bit more. Just a little bit more. I block another strike before pushing it back. Making it stumble before falling to the ground. I cast Singe two more times before it recovers and charges towards me, fully intending on making sure I'm mincemeat. I block its strikes, knowing that dodging wouldn't work due to how quick its movements are now. I guess it got a big boost due to it losing a good amount of health. I continue blocking before seeing an opening, quickly stabbing my blade into it. Doing ten damage due to the Boosted Blade Timer running out. I then viciously tear my blade out before casting Singe at it. I then notice a particular pop-up that makes me grin. This was all worth the effort.

[Red Magic Leveled up: 4≫5]
[Spellblade Leveled up: 4≫5]
[Tier 1 Red Magic unlocked!]
[Tier 1 Spellblade Enchant unlocked!]
​

[{Skills}]
[Amateur Red Magic (LVL 5): Allows for the use of LVL 1 Red Magic]
◆[Fire: Cast a ball of Fire {Costs 10 MP}]
◆[Blizzard: Cast a flurry of ice {Costs 10 MP}]
◆[Thunder: Cast series of lightning bolts {Costs 10 MP}]
◆[Water: Cast a ball of water {Costs 10 MP}]
◇[Cure: Heals Lesser Wounds {Costs 10 MP}]
◇[Esuna: Heals Lesser Status Effects (I.E Poison, Burn, etc etc) {Costs 5 MP}]
[Spellblade (LVL 1): Gives the user the ability to Enchant their weapons with Elements]
⩺[Blaze Blade: Enchants Blade with Fire {Costs 15 MP}]
⩺[Frost Blade: Enchants Blade with Ice {Costs 15 MP}]
⩺[Lightning Blade: Enchants Blade with Thunder {Costs 15 MP}]
⩺[Water Blade: Enchants Blade with Water {Costs 15 MP}]
I close the menus before immediately enchanting my sword with Blaze Blade. Making it ignite with fire as the blade glows a bright orange. I then stare at the Frostbitten Soldier with a more stoic expression. While this may or may not be an actual corpse… I'll make sure to give it its final death. Since it did help me majorly in getting stronger.
"Thank you for helping me." I say, a newfound determination settling in my chest.
I then charge forward, slashing through the Frostbitten Soldier's arm. Removing it cleanly before stabbing my blade into it. Thirty damage each strike now isn't bad. Because of its high weakness to Fire. I aim my hand at its head before casting Fire onto it. Doing a solid twenty-five damage to it. Only twenty-seven health left. I move my sword out before finally bisecting its head off. I knew a decapitation wouldn't work from the beginning since the Gamer Ability wouldn't make that sort of thing simple anyway. I breathe out as the corpse lies dead on the ground.

[Enemy Defeated: 25 EXP Gained]
​

…Better than ten EXP from hunting animals. Lesser Grimm roughly that amount frankly though they are a lot more dangerous to hunt compared to undead zombies. Not exactly a great statement on the overall status of Remnant but hey, I'm getting stronger in this way at least. The music then shifts back from battle mode to the general theme of the Woods. Honestly I used a good amount of MP in that fight. These Skills costing a lot more basically mean that using Magic isn't going to be as viable without leveling up my Mental Stats. Regardless, that makes sense. Using Spells isn't entirely my style at the moment. My style is more based around physical combat since, due to how I laid out my Stat Points, I've built myself more on Strength and Endurance. I summon the Menu and leave the dungeon. Sword in my inventory. Frankly I'm probably going to use that to start hunting Grimm and the like. It'll be a good starting weapon at the very least. Especially due to its Unique property.

---

Annnnnd here comes in one of the unique spins I've placed into this story, an item requirement for Dungeons. In case you, my dear readers, are curious. All of them are actually gonna be based off of video games I've enjoyed, have a pretty great knowledge about, and/or are ones that would genuinely just overall fit the theme of whatever item was dropped.

I've actually plotted a fair bit of the dungeons out, even for chapters I haven't written yet since... a lot of this was pre-written as I've mentioned in this thread. Now, let's get down a bit to something I wanna ask anyone reading this story since I do wanna hear a lot of feedback.

What do you all think of the mechanics? Am I doing a good job with this particular story? I know it's probably not anything super impressive or special but I figured this would be a fic that would at least be an actually good attempt for myself at writing a Gamer System. Done this a few times before on a Fanfiction.net account and that story was... well it was certainly written by someone in highschool, that's VERY for sure.

I consider this story an actually good full reboot of that story. Especially since I could have... developed that system instead of throwing whatever into it. Seriously, lessons on game development really helped me learn some stuff.

Anyway, with that. I'll see you around, stay cool and all that.

 

[DracoStar12]

Chapter 5: Education & Dungeons: Duo Conflicts

The clock ticks by as I listen to the teacher talk about math. A subject I've already been doing well in. Frankly, I could easily advance to a higher grade early. Skipping a grade or two at this level wouldn't take much effort. But there's the fact that I don't wanna draw all that much attention, it still won't get me close to making a proper weapon, and the fact that I do have friends I wanna be with. Mainly Roselyn, Ruby, and Yang. Met a few other kids but none of them are particularly outstanding. Regardless, it's been about a week since I've gone into Instant Dungeons. I've been wandering around the Watching Wood, killing plenty of Frostbitten Soldiers and Frostbitten Raiders. Managing to get only two levels thus far. Got my Strength, Speed, and Luck up. So I'm one level closer to the minimum needed for the Quest to be completed. Though with all of the studying I've been doing, part of it is looking into the theory of Dust, I've managed to get my Intelligence and Wisdom up to 20 and 25 respectively. So pretty close to the goal in that regard also. Gonna be honest, I am actually pretty curious of what that mystery system is all about. Not to mention Social Links have been… ominous. Looking more closely into the menu, I apparently get hints on some sort of unlock. So that's something really. Overall though, progress has been slow but steady.
"Mr. Lowell, tell me. What's nine multiplied by ten?" The teacher asks
"It's ninety. It's nine tens added together." I say simply
"Very good." The teacher says with a smile
At least I'm better at math this time around. Soon after, the school day ends and I head off with Ruby, Yang, and Roselyn. Falling into step with them as we do the usual routine of getting home. Of course as we were about to leave, I noticed a teenager pinning a kid to a wall. A Faunus kid. His little fox ears were flattened against his head, his wide eyes darting around for an escape. I get the sudden feeling this isn't going to be about lunch money or some other dumb kid thing. Always forget kids can be cruel.
"A freak like you shouldn't be going around, skipping grades. Looking smarter than you actually are." The teenager says with a growl
"Ugh, hate bullies like those." Yang says disgusted, scoffing slightly at the bully
I can tell she's ready and raring to go over there and kick his ass. Can't blame either of them since I wanna do the same. I subtly glance around the area and notice a teacher. Watching. Doing absolutely nothing. I blink slowly before frowning, my irritation growing even more. Of fucking course one of my teachers has to be racist. Of course that has to be the case here. Nothing in my life can ever be simple huh? Well luckily, I have a plan. I look over at Yang and put a hand onto her shoulder. Immediately making sure she doesn't run over and flatten the guy, which may not even work since he seems like he has his Aura unlocked.
"Go get a teacher. I've got a plan." I say
"Dad should be at the gate soon. I'll get him instead. What are you going to do?" Yang asks with some hesitation
"Distract them. I have a plan." I say, grinning a little
Yang looks at me confused before giving me an unsure nod. She knows that, chances are, things might get more tense with me being involved. Even with what tricks I have up my sleeve. But that's why Ruby and Roselyn are going to be sticking nearby. I mouth to them as the little blonde brawler leaves to 'stay nearby and watch'. They both nodded, stepping back but keeping their eyes locked on the situation. I then walk over to the teenager, hands casually in my pants pockets. I clear my throat, getting his attention as he stares at me with an annoyed glare. I make sure to cast Libra to get an idea of who he is at the very least.

[Name: Drake Winchester (Cousin)]
[Race: Human]
[HP: 400/400]
[AP: 250/250]
[STR: 23]
[END: 20]
[SPD: 14]
[INT: 10]
[WIS: 10]
[CHR: 10]
[LCK: 5]
…You know, I find it funny that I managed to get the cousin of Cardin Winchester as one of the first really racist individuals I just so happen to meet. Okay, so gonna have to REALLY hope that this guy isn't going to be like his cousin and is going to be a total dumbass about things. Never really seen Cardin be depicted in very many flattering ways anyway in a lot of fics.
"Oi, who the hell are you?" Drake asks, his eyes narrowed
"Ash Lowell. Look, I know I'm not exactly someone you want to talk to also. Believe me, I am WELL aware of how you and your family feels about Faunus. So I'm willing to give you… an offer." I say, both hands raised in a placating way
"An offer?" Drake questions with a brow raised
"I'll give you two thousand Lien to let this guy go. Good amount of Lien." I say, pulling out the proper Lien cards
That's about twenty bucks in money from my world. From what I've figured, Lien is similar to the Japanese Yen. So one dollar is about one hundred Lien. Not entirely sure how correct it is but in the end, I'm still gonna have to pay money. Not to mention just generally keeping a track on financial stuff. Being an adult again is going to suck when it comes down to it. I notice Drake looking at me with some interest, his grip loosening a little on the kid he was holding up. His eyes firmly on the Lien cards that I am holding. Okay, I have his attention.
"Two thousand Lien huh? Not a bad amount. Though since you're offering me that much… I think you should give me ten thousand Lien instead." He says with a menacing grin
"...Ten thousand Lien. That's a pretty bold counter-offer for someone who has the advantage here. As much as I'd love to help. Don't think I'll be able to give that much easily." I say, unsurprised by his counter-offer
"Well, too bad then." Drake says with that typical anime bully chuckle
"...I'll give you a better offer then. Six thousand Lien and I buy you snacks for a week. After all, less Lien to spend on food after training right?" I suggest as I keep my tone steady
"Really? So you'll pay for all of the snacks? Even if they're expensive?" Drake says, smirking
"Limited time offer. Might change it to something else if you don't accept it." I say in a casual way
"For an eight-year-old, you're being real bold. Why don't you take his place instead eh?" Drake asks with his smirk growing into an ugly grin
"And what does that mean exactly?" I ask, smirking
"It means I'm gonna beat the shit out of you, maybe steal some of your money. And if you try to speak out against me, my mom will make sure nothing happens due to her seat on the school council." Drake says in return
Pretty bold of him to say the quiet part out loud. But that's exactly what I was counting on since I already knew my plan was beginning to reach its climax. After all, I knew that it wouldn't take too long for Yang to get her side of the deal done.
"Interesting to hear you'll think that'll really be the case, Mr Winchester."
Drake's expression faltered just slightly upon hearing the voice. Soon after, he looks over to see Taiyang. Standing there across the schoolyard. Looking none too amused about him bullying students. Drake stiffened, his confidence flickering upon seeing the unamused glare. I know damn well that he'll fight against this. He's not the type to allow such things to slide. In fact, he's mentioned plenty on how he feels about the Winchester family in Vale and their actions. So knowing someone RELATED to said family is pulling this sort of thing here? Oh he is going to do everything within his power. The teacher that was watching, like the right bastard he is, walks over with a sleazy smile.
"Mr. Xiao Long. It's just some kids rough-housing. It's not like he was actually gonna do anything. Boys will be boys." He says
"Weird. Ruby and Roselyn saw all of this going down… and didn't see you doing anything." I say with some menace in my tone
Ruby and Roselyn nod in agreement with my words. Confirming what I said. The Teacher looks a bit put off by this before chuckling, shrugging with barely any sort of care. I am retraining every part of myself from pulling out my sword and stabbing it near him just to send a swift message. That won't help things but God would it feel good taking the smugness out of his face.
"Just two kids with overactive imaginations with one of them just supporting his friend." He says easily
"...Then I'll report this to the Headmaster and he'll have a look at the Security Camera Footage." Taiyang says with a flat tone
It's only then that the Teacher's face goes pale. I did notice there was a security camera nearby but I wasn't sure how reliable it was going to be but knowing that it is functional? Oh boy is it going to be nice seeing all of this go down. Since now it's going to be a Teacher reporting on what was going on… not to mention how much the Headmaster despises intolerance for the Faunus since he was one himself. Oh yeah. It's all coming together.

---

It took a bit but now we are going back home. Not sure what's going to happen to that Teacher and Drake but… whatever. Not my issue. And if they make it my issue, I'll deal with it. For now, I'm gonna make sure to vent some of my anger in a pretty healthy way… by killing undead creatures in an Ice Dungeon. That's always a pretty fun time frankly. Stabbing things before setting them on fire. No conversation, nothing to over complicate it. Just good ol' fighting. After we arrive back, however, Taiyang takes me aside for a moment as the others go to play some video games. Not too surprised by that since, apparently, they've been playing a lot of what is basically a Mario Party Clone. Doesn't even have Chance Time which is both great… but also kinda lame in a lot of regards if I'm gonna be honest. Regardless, me and him are sitting in the living room. His eyes staring into mine with a serious gaze. One that made it abundantly clear that this conversation was something pretty important. Always feels a bit awkward talking to him like this since I feel like I'm talking with someone's father rather than just an adult.
"So… why did you get involved? You didn't have to help out that kid." Taiyang asks, leaning forward with his elbows resting on his knees
"...Good question. Let me counter with my own one for a moment. What are you going to do depending on what I say?" I question in return
"...Don't get me wrong. I'm actually… happy, you got involved. It's just… with how you act and how you are. You seemed like the type to be like most other adults and… look away. Even if you're a kid again." Taiyang says, very carefully choosing his words
Ah… I can see why he was asking about this now. It's a sad fact of the matter that some people are actually willing to look away from horrible things, say those types of things aren't their problem. And those that do try to do something about it are sometimes looked upon as the bad guy. Simply because they did what would be, in quite a few cases, going against the social norm. In some regards, the social norm is that Faunus get treated badly even if the law looks at them as equals for the most part. From what I can tell that sort of ideal is changing pretty rapidly during the events of RWBY but even then, it's because of the White Fang's actions causing some fear also. In the end; the general problem is that there's a lot of people looking away. I breathe out before looking at the table with a grim expression.
"...People are bastards sometimes, Taiyang. You know that?" I say
Taiyang looks a bit surprised by that. Wouldn't be surprised if he had expected a heroic speech from me. In one life, I might have… not in this life though. I've honestly always seemed like the type to believe in the best of people. And I do. But I acknowledge a lot of things. I've had to acknowledge a lot of things. And there's a long list of complaints about people that I have.
"Bystander Syndrome is a term we invented because people generally see so many things going on that are horrible and do nothing. Either because of fear or 'it's not my problem' and that… pisses me off. It always pisses me off." I say
"Yeah… it pisses me off too." Taiyang responds softly
"So why should I, the person who can use my own brand of smarts, stand by when people are in danger? I don't always need to respond with violence always. And I didn't here… but there will come a day where I will have to use violence." I say
"...And you're not gonna hesitate when it comes down to there being no choice otherwise?" Taiyang asks
"More or less… but I will also choose to find another way. I'm getting stronger and smarter every day. And there will come a day where I will use all of that potential and power… and drag this world kicking and fucking screaming into a better age. Where we don't need to look at each other with hate because of something dumb as a pair of ears." I say with anger in my tone
Because if I've learned anything… if it continues to fester. It won't stop here. I know it won't stop here. Because then it'll fall into the same problems as my world. And I've seen enough of that. I'm not sure if I will be able to properly do that. If I can beat something as big as this. Throw a monster at me? I can probably beat it. However, throw a concept at me? I'm gonna have a harder time… because beating a concept requires more than just a sword and some magic. It requires planning. And right now, I have to plan some other things. Still… I'll do my best. Taiyang merely regards me with a careful yet sad gaze.
"You think you can make that big of a change?" He asks me
"...I'd have to try at least." I respond with
And that was the truth. I'd rather die knowing I tried to make some majorly good change then live without trying at all. Always been the type to advocate for that sort of thing really. Taiyang sighs before chuckling softly, with an almost… bitter undertone to it.
"You remind me of my old teammate Summer in some ways… she said she'd change this world for the better. Apparently her eye color got her made fun of among a few other things. She wanted to stop that kind of bullying… so that everyone in this world can live more happily. Make sure no one else has to go through that kind of thing." He says, thinking wistfully
"...Your teammate was a wise woman. I hope one day I can possibly be as optimistic as she was." I say with my own bitter chuckle
"I think in some ways. You already are… but… eh, even if you're a grown-up mentally. You're still a kid physically. So don't worry too much about that kind of thing for now, okay?" Taiyang says
I nod. Honestly I feel like I understand Taiyang a bit more. For all the depictions of him being charismatic, I can actually see where it partially comes from. He's honest. Genuinely pretty honest. But there's always that sense of tiredness. Like he knows that being polite is useful in other ways but he can't help but speak his heart a little. Maybe, just maybe… I can one day see more of those sides.

[{Social Link Rank Up}]
[Taiyang - The Helios Brawler (Enlightenment): 1≫2]
A good indicator of our bond deepening at the very least. Soon after, I leave to go relax. The rest of the evening is a fairly relaxed affair. Dinner, some conversation, before finally heading to bed. I pretend to sleep, making sure to check the time discreetly on my COMP. After about three hours, I opened the Dungeon. Once again appearing back into the familiar cold forest. I take out the Rusted Sword, I'm probably gonna get this thing cleaned when I'm able to buy the supplies for it. I don't wanna look suspicious getting it and I don't wanna explain Taiyang where I got a random rusty sword from just yet. I focus myself and walk around the forest, sneaking up on quite a few Drowned Soldiers. Stabbing them in the back before making sure to swiftly kill them. Used a good amount of Mana but I've found that taking a moment to rest helps. Not to mention one hour in here is thirty minutes out there. I've been here for a good five hours at this rate, so that means only three hours have passed in the real world. Honestly it took me a bit to get the proper math conversion in my head down… that raised my Intelligence by one. I should feel insulted but I did feel smarter for figuring that information out so… whatever I suppose. Of course even with all of the EXP, I haven't gotten to level ten yet. From what I can tell, EXP has slowed down majorly at this point. I suppose to try and not make me overpowered too quickly. Makes sense considering if this were actually a game, I'd be in the 'Early Game' portion. Still, it's nice stabbing things. Breathing out, I continue my walking round… before finding myself staring at a stone arena. Large pillars made of weathered and aged stone rising a good few feet upwards. At the far end lies… a massive armored figure. Humanoid, obviously, but considering all I've found here is undead? I feel like it's unlikely it's someone that's alive. I hum slightly, weighing my options. On one hand? I could investigate more closely. On the other hand? I could very well die if I do and have every option to leave now to come back later. Tough options… really tough options. May as well give it a try, after all, it might work out for the better depending on the circumstances. I carefully step into the stone arena… before a magical barrier made of transparent red energy rises up around the area. Immediately, I'm on alert as I glance around the area before looking at the body in front of me as it slowly gets up… and then draws its sword. The music immediately shifts to reflect this moment.

[Dungeon Boss Theme: Symphony Of Carnage]
​

Before I could even use Libra, the boss dashed towards me. Swinging a massive blade down towards me. I barely dodge, rolling to the side as the ground splinters beneath the weight of the strike. Broken pebbles clattering against the ground. As I took a closer look at the boss, I realized what I was fighting… it was the Sodden Knight. The first boss of Salt & Sanctuary. Of course I'd get him as a boss in a Salt & Sanctuary themed Dungeon. I breathe out and focus myself. I can't let myself get distracted. I've beaten this guy in an entirely different game with entirely different mechanics. I can do it here. I use Libra to try and get a read on his stats.

[Name: The Sodden Knight]
[Race: Greater Undead (Humanoid)]
[HP: 400/400]
[MP: 340/340]
[STR: 30]
[END: 25]
[SPD: 20]
[INT: 20]
[WIS: 15]
Greater Undead… I'm not surprised that it comes with an actual Intelligence and Wisdom Stat. He's clearly a lot stronger and a lot more capable than most Undead. Not to mention knowing him… he'll have Lightning Magic again. Breathing out, I raised my sword as the Sodden Knight pulled his own sword out of the ground. It doesn't matter how tough he might be. I'm not gonna back down here because of how capable he is. I use Blaze Blade on my sword, making it stronger before charging towards him. I know that I'll do about thirty-five damage per swing in this state, so I'm gonna need to be quick. Leaping forward, I slash the Rusted Sword across his chest causing inky black blood to leak out. I notice a blue glow appear in its eyes before it charges me once again, readying a large swing upward. I did my best to get back but wasn't able to, getting launched into the air. Damn that did some damage, hurt a little too. I extend my hand towards him, here's hoping that he won't dodge this.
"FIRE!"
A ball of fire launches out of my hand, hitting the Sodden Knight. Doing thirty damage to it, not a bad amount but I know damn well that I'm gonna need to keep up the pressure. Landing on the ground, I quickly move forward. Feinting a slash towards its side but deciding to go for one of its eyes. I managed to hit it, making more inky black blood spurt out of it as it roared in pain. Even in death, the person that used to be the Sodden Knight was still somewhere in there… but I know trying to appeal to that part is useless. I slide my blade out before slashing it once again and again. But before I could get another slash in, he's already recovered and punched me away. It has a good right hook, I'll have to admit that. Though it's pretty obvious that his strategy is a lot less like a video game boss and more like an actual warrior fighting. Good to know the Gamer Ability still goes beyond most things, even in this version. Getting up, I quickly cast Cure on myself. Healing myself a good amount. The timer on Blaze Blade runs out, leaving my sword back to normal. That's fine, I plan on playing more ranged at this point anyway. I fire out another Fire Spell at the Sodden Knight as it begins charging towards me. I dodge out of the way of a strike as it stabs the large steel blade forward, embedding it into the pillar I was standing in front of. Quickly moving, I take the Rusted Blade and stab him in the back. Fifty damage. Thank you Elden Ring for teaching me that little tactic. The Sodden Knight Roars before finally taking his blade out of the pillar. Electricity begins to spark across it as his eyes glow a fierce blue.The eye I stabbed has a faint red tint to it. It's below half health. Let's see if I can make it to the end point. I jump back before it stabs its blade into the ground, causing the area around it to be covered in electricity. I still remember some of your tactics, you bastard. Luckily, I still remember one way of doing more damage. Pulling out one of my Fire Dust Crystals, I toss it at the Sodden Knight before firing a spell at it. The Dust Crystal explodes, doing another fifty damage.
"HOW DO YOU LIKE THAT HUH!?!" I yell out
"GRAAAHHHHH!"
The Sodden Knight leaps forward, his blade electrified. I breathe out, let's see if I can manage this. I hold my sword in both hands, plant my feet firmly… before parrying the attack. Leaving him open. Taking the opportunity, I cast Blaze Blade before stabbing the Blade into him again. Fifty damage. Always glad to see I can do something. Soon after I tear it out, inky black blood sprays out. The Sodden Knight stumbles back… before roaring once again. It then stabs its blade into the ground multiple times, making bolts of electricity rain down from above. Low health tactic. Smart. I do my best to dodge away from the bolts but I get struck a few times. Putting me dangerously close to low health. I raise my hand to cast Cure but notice the Sodden Knight charging me. I roll out of the way as it slams itself into another pillar. I take the moment to quickly heal before charging it. The Blaze Blade charge may have ran out but I can still do enough damage! I slash two times before stabbing my sword into its eye once again. Leaving it embedded there as it roars angrily. Almost there. Just need to do one more thing. As it begins charging me once again, I dodge out of the way just in time before raising my hand. A fire spell at the ready.
"...If you can't handle the heat… get out of the kitchen." I say
I then fire off the spell, doing the last bit of damage needed. I breathe out heavily as the corpse of the Sodden Knight falls over… burnt, stabbed, and dripping with black inky blood. I walk over, taking my sword from its eye before putting it away into my inventory. That… was a rough fight. I came close to dying a few moments earlier, that strike would have definitely put me within kill distance had I not dodged at the right time. Gotta remember it's my life at stake here if I lose a boss fight. No respawns. I notice the EXP I've gotten has pushed me up to another level. Nice… and then a new menu pops up in front of me.

[Level Milestone reached! Features Unlocked!]
{Formula-based Magic Unlocked (MP Costs will be changed to account for this)}
{Spellcraft Unlocked}
{Item Drops Unlocked}
​

…I needed to be level 10 to unlock Item Drops?!?! That's why nothing was dropping from those enemies?!?! Okay, you know what? In retrospect, that makes sense. Because Gamers can get pretty powerful from taking those materials and making them into useful things. But that aside, that means they could have placed that at later levels. Like who knows how long it would have been until I had actual item drops? Level fifteen? Level twenty? Or hell, level thirty. That would be a really long time away. I'm getting way too heated… regardless, it's nice. Though I didn't know I wasn't working with Formula-based Magic. Another menu pops in front of me with helpful information.

[Damage before was calculated via a Logic based system, it was the best way of letting one get a handle on the Gamer Ability before anything else]
​

Explains quite a bit really… regardless, at least I managed to make it through this fight. Taking a quick breath, I decide to go ahead and search the Sodden Knight since item drops are unlocked… let's see what he actually has here considering the fact that I fought him so hard for something. A menu pops up in front of me the moment I examine the dead body.

[Lootable Items]
{Tattered Shroud, Fortress Key, Old Knight's Journal, Foul Ichor, Cold Gauntlets, Old Coin (x10)}
​

Gonna have to examine all of those frankly. First, I'm gonna leave this dungeon. I open the menu and leave the dungeon. Reappearing back into the guest bedroom. Right back onto the bed where I left it. Turns out using it at areas considered a 'rest point' allows me to basically instantly transport back into bed after leaving a dungeon. Pretty useful thing really. I open the menu once again, examining each item closely. Frankly? All of them were pretty interesting in their own right. Of course there was something I noticed due to the fact some of the items had some… particular aspects to them.

[Tattered Shroud: A tattered shroud that is heavily damp and has been imbued with protective abilities {Can be repaired} (Unique Item)]
[Old Knight's Journal: The Journal of the Sodden Knight, contains information on sword techniques {Levels up Basic Swordsmanship to Amateur Swordsmanship}]
[Foul Ichor: A vial of black blood that is found in some Greater Undead {Can be used in Alchemy}]
[Cold Gauntlets: A pair of gauntlets that are always cold to the touch]
[Old Coin: An old coin from an ancient time, no longer used today as a currency {Can be exchanged for Lien}]
[Fortress Key: A key to a fortress of some kind. It's damp and has a few black ichor stains {Compatible with the Instant Dungeon Skill}]
No Stats for some items. They have effects, that much is clear but there's no Stats. It's probably because giving equipment stats would be overpowered, something that is common in some series really. Guess the Gamer Ability really makes me wanna earn my victory huh? Well… I'll take it. I'll make sure to wear the gauntlets later at least. Considering the fact that it's better than nothing at the very least. Though the Fortress Key is interesting. I guess Dungeon Bosses can drop items to go into other Dungeons. That's something I'll focus on another time… for now. I'm gonna rest… I'll make sure to use my Stat points tomorrow.

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First boss fight of this Story. Yeah I honestly do wanna use more bosses from games that are a bit less common, think it'd be neat to pull a boss from some obscure RPG Maker Horror Game from time to time. Though that's probably something other stories have done and haven't found those stories quite yet.

Regardless, yeah. I think I did somewhat of a good job setting things up for this fight and showing off how the protagonist will struggle in a good amount of fights in this story. I like doing that sort of thing, adds some interesting stuff to the story and how the protagonist grows.

Moving on, this is gonna be the last chapter for this story. For now. I still have plenty of other chapters in the backlog. Been working on this story for a long while, like years.

So I'll be posting the first chapter of another story I'd like to say either tomorrow or the day after. Really depends on if work goes well.

Though gonna be honest, I do hope to get people's thoughts on this story. Like genuinely, do not be afraid to give me any sort of serious criticism. 'Cause I do wanna get really good at writing.

With that, see you all around. Keep yourselves safe.