So yeah, guess who got their plans canceled by their friends and spent most of their day finishing CtL? Yup, Vera and I. Anyway, here you go, have a good read

~Punkie and Vera

*3rd POV*

As (Y/N) falls through the tunnel of darkness, his life flashes before his eyes. Every moment, starting with his childhood, training with his grandmother, and their travels around Anima. He sees his time in Sanctum, Beacon, Atlas, and finally in Ever After. And with the only thing on his mind.

(Y/N): 'I need to find her and bring her back before... before what exactly...' he starts thinking, 'I... I know I won't be able to protect her every time. That she needs to face some things alone. Only that way can she deal with whatever broke her in the first place. Just like you did, (L/N)' He remembers one day of his life, when he last saw his father alive.

*Flashback 14 years ago. (Y/N), age six*

Young (Y/N): "Dad, you know you're my Hero! But... What does it mean to be a hero?" he asks, lying on his bed, fully ready to catch some Z's.

Albert: "From where does it come from, squirt?" He smiles at his son, sitting on a chair next to the bed, a book titled 'The Girl Who Fell Through the World' in his hands.

Young (Y/N): "It's just... mommy reads me these stories before I go sleepy. And you tell me about all your adventures! I just wonder what does it mean to be it? To be brave and strong like you," The young boy states, excited for another of his father's 'words of wisdom.'

Albert: "Hmm... good question, lil matchstick" He ruffles (Y/N)'s hair. "Well, being a hero means different things to different people. But for me, being one is about putting others before yourself and doing what's right, even if it's difficult. One person's hero could be a villain to other people. Being a hero is more than what your mom reads you to bed" he smiles at his son.

Young (Y/N): "So how do I become a hero like you, Dad? I want to be a strong hero who saves the day like you!" he asks his father with sparkly eyes.

Albert: "Don't worry about it, (Y/N). The most important thing is you'll always listen to your heart and trust your instincts. If something doesn't feel right, it probably isn't. Every hero is different. Hey, why don't you try to dream about what type of hero you want to become? And tell me about it tomorrow?" (Y/N) yawns. "I guess this is a yes" he smiles, stands up, and leaves the room "Goodnight (Y/N). Daddy loves you" As he turns the lights off, he looks back at his son.

Young (Y/N): "Goodnight, Dad. I love you too" (Y/N) dozes off, and Albert closes the door.

Unbeknownst to (Y/N), Albert will never come back home again.

Albert: "You'll achieve great things (Y/N). I can feel it" His scroll then rings, and he opens it to see it is Summer calling him. "Summer, I was just about to call Rave to open a portal for me. Yeah, everyone thinks it's a normal mission. No, not even Elly. I... just said my goodbyes to (Y/N). Sure, we will meet by your house." he walks out of his house and looks back, thinking if it's worth it. "If Summer and I succeed, they won't need to sacrifice too. Do it, Albert, for your wife and your kid..." he walks away into the streets of Atlas and one small alley. "Besides... (Y/N) will be a better Guardian than I was" He spots Raven waiting for him, portal ready to take them to Patch

Raven: "As I live. Albert (L/N) lying to his wife and kid."

Albert: "Shut up, Rave. Take us to Patch" Without any more words, they enter the rift.

*Flashback ends*

(Y/N): "What does it mean... to be a hero..." he sighs, finally landing on a floor made of dark marble. Everything around him is black or dark green, giving the place a mysterious look.

???: "It's been fourteen years, and you still haven't found an answer, squirt?" (Y/N) sits up and looks at the person speaking to him. Recognizing the voice, he's aware it's his father's spirit and his Guardian Angel, Albert (L/N)

(Y/N): "So the tree really means death, just like Jaune thought..." he sighs and lies down

Albert: "You made your choice, (Y/N)." He sighs. "The Tree is not death. It's supposed to fix you, to renew your purpose. To give you another chance. You've already met it," he smiles, confusing the young man. "The Blacksmith, she's the Tree. It's not the place you go. It's the place, you know." he smiles.

(Y/N): "But... what about Ruby then? She drank the tea too!"

Albert: "Son, like you young people say, calm your tits. She has a choice to make, she's safe with the Tree."

(Y/N): "How do you know so much about it...?"

Albert: "Well... let's say guarding souls and all-powerful creation being had something in common. She sensed me, she read my purpose, and so we're here. I'm here to help you with something." (Y/N) looks at him and sighs "Have you seen your reflection in a while?" (Y/N) shakes his head "Then you may take a look. Notice something different?"

(Y/N) inspects his face. Nothing. His hair is still (H/C), a little longer since cutting them in Atlas, and his eyes are still silver... well, a duller shade of silver than usual.

Albert: "You've lost your resolve, (Y/N). Your spark. I'm here... to fulfill what I promised you fourteen years ago." he reaches to his back, drawing a light blue longsword with a black handle. (Y/N) doesn't need to look twice, recognizing his father's weapon, Ignis Aetern

(Y/N): "W-what?" he stutters

Albert: "You and I are going to train. Both mentally and psychically. Hurry up, take out Mortem." (Y/N) reaches for his weapon and extends it to its scythe config. "Good, a stance like every scythe user. Maria trained you well. Now answer me this. Who are you?" (Y/N) frowns.

(Y/N): "Oh, come on. I'm done with this type of question" In response, Albert rushes (Y/N), but the young adult blocks the attack with his weapon.

Albert: "Wrong answer. Think, (Y/N). Who are you?" the older man looks at his son 'Let's rekindle this little ember into the fire it burned once before.'

*Meanwhile, with Team WBY, RMS, and Jaune*

The two teams are going through the forest. Jaune and the girls are on Juniper, while Ryze holds Sam and Mako as he flies beside jackalope.

Ryze: "We need to find those two before they become something else! (L/N), you fucking idiot!"

Weiss: "But they were taken by the Tree. We still have no idea how to get to it!"

Jaune: "I just don't get it! First Alyx, then Pleasers, Ruby, (Y/N), all of it!" he curses. "What does this darn world want from us?!"

The group keeps going, finally arriving at the flooded village. Pleasers' remains still float on the surface of the newly created lake. Strangely for them, the Tree is now closer to them, on the water just beyond the destroyed dam. Ryze lands and lets go of his teammates.

Sam: "Hey, Ryze, you okay?" Ryze pants for a second but gives him a thumbs up.

Ryze: "Yeah... I think I will quit smoking..." he pants a little more before calming his breathing. "Hey, the tree wasn't there when we left, right?"

Jaune: "I don't know... I just don't know anymore..." A small figure made of red crystals walks to the group, holding a basket.

???: "You appear upset. Would you be so kind as to tell me how I can help? Perhaps you want something to eat?" it offers some food from the basket, but Jaune declines.

Jaune: "Huh? No, we're good."

???: "If I can help you with anything else, please don't hesitate to ask! That's my purpose!" Mako and Sam whisper to each other.

Mako: "Hey, Sam, doesn't it reminds you of something?"

Sam: "You mean Pleasers... so that means... (Y/N) and Ruby..."

Jaune: "I'm sorry, but what are you?"

Red Genial Gem: "We are the Genial Gems. We've arrived here out of our purpose to clean this beautiful land, to help it and turn it into something wonderful and pleasing" Other Gems walk into the water, cleaning it from the debris left from the flood. Unlike their previous bodies, water can't hurt them now. Gems put their hands into the water, making a glowing light appear. Water rises in the air and dances a bit before finally transforming into a crystal structure. Tree's leaves fly by as the young adults and Jaune look in awe.

Ryze: "It's them... the Pleasers resurrected just like they said. Into something less... fragile."

Weiss: "The Tree made them better than before. Their creations are now both beautiful and strong."

Yang: "And no flood or fire can destroy their home. They can do what they always wanted now."

Jaune: "All this time... All this time, I was trying to protect them, but instead, I just prevented them from becoming what they needed to be. I wanted to be the hero who always saves people. Like my family before me, but really... I was just being selfish. Just trying to run away from my fear of losing anyone else again."

Sam: "You're not the only one, Jaune. We all have our reasons to keep going. I and Ryze for each other. Mako to help his family... (Y/N) to be like his father. He must understand that he'll never be him and just live his life, not putting those expectations on himself. He failed, and we all failed, but it's not like we're always destined to succeed. It doesn't mean we're not good," Weiss picks up after him.

Weiss: "You, Ruby, (Y/N)... you three put too much pressure on yourselves. As Sam said, we've been telling ourselves that failing means we're no good. That we're not good enough, but I can guarantee that even the best Huntsmen in history have failed before... they've all lost. But still, they were still incredibly brave, and good. They were heroes."

Jaune: "Weiss... Sam..." he tears up. "Thank you" Weiss hugs Jaune while the rest of the girls join in; boys stand to the side, smiling with satisfaction.

Ryze: "Well, I think Jaune is back" The rest of the Guardians hum in agreement. Girls meanwhile free Jaune

Jaune: "The Cat may have lied about some things. But I think he's right about the Tree. Maybe I just needed to accept it. It's not a place you go" A moment later, they find themselves at the Tree.

Sam: "It's a place you know" The group looks around. Moving through, they pass some branches, with Sam and Ryze cutting them with their blades. The twins stop and look in shock at what's before them. A Herbalist, now encased in wood as the sun shines at the statue through the branches.

Ryze: "So this is where he ended up. That means Ruby and (Y/N) are somewhere too" Yang looks around.

Yang: "...R-Ruby?!" she runs over to her discovery with the group close behind her. They follow her to find Ruby, encased in wood, just like Herbalist. Yang creases Ruby's cheek and touches her forehead with her own. "We have to get her out!" she cries before Ryze gets her away, taking her into his arms.

Ryze: "We will find a way, Goldie. But, where is (L/N)?" he asks as the two of his teammates look around. Sam notices some weird plant from back home. Its leaves are blueish-green, and it looks like a fireplace.

Sam: "I found him!" Sam moves the leaves to spot a wooden figure of (Y/N) encased in Agava plants.

Ryze: "How?" he and Mako rush to Sam

Sam: "It's this plant. Agava, also known as Blue Flame." Ryze cuts the plants and looks at his leader figure.

Mako: "We've got to get him and Ruby out!"

Jaune: "I think I get it. This is why the Tree brought us here. To learn about acceptance. To accept... everything that's happened to us here and back home. To accept everything about us. Our successes... but also our failures."

Weiss: "We've done everything we can. The rest is up to them now. Whatever happens next, we have to accept it. And we have to support it."

Yang: "But, what if she isn't Ruby anymore when she comes back?!" Ryze wipes her tears with his hand.

Ryze: "Goldie... I'm afraid (L/N) will become some asshole or anything else... or he will forget about us... but as Weiss said, we'll need to accept it. It's their choice, not ours now. No one but theirs."

Sam: "Come on, (Y/N). We'll not let you down, chief. Just... don't forget about us," he murmurs under his nose."

*Meanwhile, before the teams get to the Tree, with Tick*

'Great... first I die, then I can finally get my revenge thanks to some 'magical shit with this fairy world.' I meet with Neo; she 'told' me the plan, and in the end, I'm stuck here!' thinks the crocodile Faunus girl before sighing.

Tick: "It was a matter between his grandma and my aunt... Pff, like that, even matter anymore. I just want to kill him for killing me first." she looks to the right, spotting Neo walking. "Hey, Neo, it took you some time! Did you kill Ruby? Can you untie me?" 'Neo' looks at her, as Tick spots the changes, her eyes and that twisted smile... it's not Neo.

NeoCat: "Oh, and the surprises don't end!" it laughs while Tick starts to feel uneasy

Tick: "What did you do to her?! What did you do to Neo?!" the NeoCat chuckles.

NeoCat: "I simply borrowed her body to fulfill my purpose. The ideal vessel after her purpose was done."

Tick: "No! Neo, it's me, Tick. Come on, ice cream, you're there!" she tries to call to her, but NeoCat only laughs.

NeoCat: "Whoever she was to you, she's gone. Hmm... you still have a lot of vigor. How exciting!" the NeoCat chuckles. "I wish I have more time to talk, but it seems I have a place to be. I pay you my goodbye, whoever you are," and just like that NeoCat blasts off toward the Tree, leaving Tick to think.

Tick: "...Neo..." she tries to break free, chewing on the mix of sap and vines. "Come on, Ah will not allow mah only... friend to be controlled!" she chomps harder as vines slowly give up. "Come on!" she chomps again, finally setting herself free. She spits the remains of sap and sprints after the NeoCat "Maybe Grimm Reaper was right..." she shakes her head. "No. He killed your kin, Tick..." 'But maybe Aunt Tock was indeed evil...' she thinks while running.

*With Ruby, deep inside the Tree*

Ruby opens her eyes to find herself in a dark void with small lights around her. She walks, eventually hearing the sound of a hammer beating down on metal. Looking forward, she finds the Blacksmith hammering away on a hot piece of metal. It inspects the metal.

Blacksmith: "I didn't expect you'd be here so soon."

Ruby: "I... I wasn't expecting to be here or anything, to be honest. Are you the Tree?" Blacksmith places its tools down and looks at her.

Blacksmith: "You can say that. Though, that is a rather simplistic way of looking at the Tree. And its purpose" It walks to Ruby.

Ruby: "What's going to happen to me now? Am I going to die... if I'm not dead already?"

Blacksmith: "The only thing that could happen to you here is what you want to happen. The choices of what you become, how you change, and where you end up are yours to make." she explains, but Ruby becomes even more unsure. She smiles at the young Huntress. "You don't know what you want, do you?"Ruby hangs her head and shakes it. "Then come with me."

*With (Y/N)*

Albert: "Come on, son, it's a simple question. Who are you?"

(Y/N): "I... I'm (Y/N)" he looks at his father, anticipating another attack, but Albert looks at him, wanting him to continue. "I'm (Y/N) (L/N)"

Albert: "Good, at least you know your name," he chuckles. "Think, (Y/N)"

(Y/N): "I'm... I'm sorry, I can't. I just can't!" he cries. "I always wanted to be like you, or like Grandma Maria, or any other Guardian before. I couldn't. I couldn't be you. I don't even know what I am supposed to be anymore. Am I a Guardian? Am I a Huntsman? Am I even alive right now? Am I... a failure? I don't even know if the real me is still here."

Albert looks at his son with pity and uneasiness on his face.

Albert: "No, (Y/N). You're not a failure. You're my son; you're a Fall's Guardian. You're... a hero."

(Y/N): "To whom? To those who I killed? To Atlas when I led to its failure? I can't be a hero with this blood on my hands."

Albert: "Oh, but you're a hero (Y/N). For many people. To your friends, for example. You've never given up on them; you helped them in their darker times. Most importantly, you're yours, Rose's hero."

(Y/N): "I... I'm not. I've failed her too many times..."

Albert: "But you also helped her many times. You two met because you wanted to help her. Destiny likes to play her games," he smiles. "Now, (Y/N)," he draws his sword back in his hand, "Answer me this. Who are the important people to you?"

(Y/N): "Huh?"

Albert: "What's the reason you kept going? Even after the fall of Beacon, even after you learned about Salem's history, even after what happened in Atlas. What made you keep fighting?"

(Y/N): "It was my friend, my family... Ruby," Albert smiles

Albert: "And what's she to you?"

(Y/N): "She is... my partner, my Beloved Rose... my Beacon of Hope..."

Albert: "Same as you're her Beacon of Resolve," he smiles. "You're her hero, (Y/N). Remember when you asked me this 14 years ago? It's just like I told you. Putting others before you, doing the right thing, even if it's hard, and" he walks to his son, poking his finger where (Y/N) heart is. "Most important, listen to your heart. I saw everything you did for her, for your friends and strangers you met. You don't even know how many people consider you a hero, even better than I was," he ruffles (Y/N)'s hair. "You don't need to be me, (Y/N). You just have to be you. I love you, son, just the way you are."

(Y/N): "I... I love you too, Dad."

Albert: "Now..." he dries one tear. "Stop the waterworks; we're men, after all." he chuckles. "Let's catch up" He sits down and snaps his fingers as the scenery changes to the backyard of (L/N) mansion. Patting the place beside him, he offers (Y/N) to take a seat. He does, and the two start chatting. "So... how's mom? Doing fine?"

(Y/N): "Yeah. After we fucked up Atlas, she came back to being a Huntress. Hey, Dad, how do I get back?" Albert stays silent. "Dad?"

Albert: "I guess I can't keep you in the dark... The thing is, you have a choice to make now (Y/N)."

(Y/N): "What do you... no, I can't..."

Albert: "I'm sorry, (Y/N). You have to. And you know your options now. Afterlife, or being someone's Guardian Angel..."

(Y/N): "I say bullshit and I want to get out of here!"

Albert: "But, son. This isn't what you wanted?"

(Y/N): "Not after all your talk about me being a hero! I need to get back! My team needs me! Ruby needs me!"

Albert: "(Y/N), calm down" he tries to calm the young adult, but (Y/N) gets his scythe out. "Whoa, a little too feisty, don't you think, (Y/N)?"

(Y/N): "I don't fucking care! I need to get back there!"

Albert: "(Y/N)... there is a third way, but it comes with a price" (Y/N) becomes interested

(Y/N): "Well, tell me, what is it?!"

Albert: "You will come back" he presents his sword to the younger man. "But you need to kill me."

(Y/N): "Wh-what are you... aren't you already..." Albert nods.

Albert: "The tree works in mysterious ways. It's a test to see if you rediscover your purpose." (Y/N) sighs

(Y/N): "Then... no, no more killing. I... I guess I will stay dead." He sat down, as Albert sat down next to him.

Albert: "(Y/N)... you still have time to decide... I will let you think about it... he disappears, as the young adult thinks.

(Y/N): "No... I'm sorry, guys, but I can't. I can't kill my own father... what will happen if I do? Will his soul disappear? Will he go to the afterlife? No, I just... I just talked with him after all these years..."

*With the gang, the crown of the Tree*

The gang hears a banging sound, and they look around for its source

Mako: "What is that banging?" it gets louder as Jaune moves some branches, spotting a massive door on the other side. They're wide open, emitting a glowing light. "Is that?" Jaune smiles.

Jaune: "Our way back home."

Then, NeoCat comes out of the light and is pushed back. They growl, trying desperately to get to Remnant again, only to be pushed back. They notice the group.

NeoCat: "Oh good! You made it..."

Ryze: "Seems like your first plan went and killed itself, and your second plan followed the first. It's just sad."

NeoCat: "You are an annoying one, aren't you" It stands up

Jaune: "So, Neo can't go back to Remnant."

NeoCat: "Argh... Unfortunately, no. She has no attachments to your world, apparently. Nothing to go home to. She has failed me... Just like Alyx did."

Sam: "Like Alyx did?"

Ryze: "What did you do to Alyx?" NeoCat growls.

NeoCat: "That selfish, cowardly, stupid little girl whose story you've been walking down this entire time. Just as I once did so long ago. Alyx promised me that she would bring me back to Remnant with her. But the truth is... she never intended on keeping that promise. Oh no, after she had a little conversation with the Tree, she suddenly had a crisis of consciousness. She decided that she wanted to stay and fix everything she had broken in the Ever After. Even trying to atone for what she did to poor Jaune. So when the time came, Lewis went through the door, but at the very last moment... Alyx did not."

Mako: "Oh god..."

Ryze: "What. Did. You. Do?" NeoCat laughs before jumping and smashing its fist on the ground.

NeoCat: "What anyone would do with a broken, useless thing" It breaks a piece of wood. The group meanwhile draws their weapons.

Jaune: "You mean... it was you... you MONSTER!" NeoCat creates a pair of giant claws, getting ready to attack, but stops when they notice Ruby and (Y/N) behind them, still enveloped in wood.

NeoCat: "It's her... She's still here. Oh, and two for the price of one," it mutters, chuckling, making the group glance back at the two leaders. NeoCat smiles. "Yes! All my work... it's not lost! Deep down, those two want to return to Remnant and play hero. I just need to cut them out, and either will take me there!" The group stands in their way, protecting the two figures.

Yang: "No, whatever happens to them is their choice. Not you, or ours, or anyone else's. That is for them to decide."

Ryze: "And we're not letting you get in their way" The feisty duo stand first against the Cat, both in fighting positions, with Ryze's eyes lightly enveloped in white mist

NeoCat: "Then I will put you all in the ground!" with a threat, the fight begins

*With Ruby*

Ruby follows the Blacksmith through the void of the Tree to nowhere in particular. As they do, small green lights slowly fly by the pair.

Ruby: "What are these lights?"

Blacksmith: "The souls that are moving on to... whatever they become next."

Ruby: "Do they choose... what they become in their next life?"

Blacksmith: "Such concern for those that you've never met, or... is it concern for your own fate?" the two stops

*Back with the group*

The Cat tries to pounce on Weiss, but Mako dropkicks it before it can touch her. Blake meanwhile spins her scythe with Ryze at the other end. He swings his blades, but NeoCat shatters like glass.

Yang: "If you want them, you'll have to walk through us!"

Sam: "We won't let you touch them!" NeoCat laughs.

NeoCat: "Hahaha, but don't you get it?" it creates several copies of both Ruby and (Y/N), which lack colors, and their eyes are black, in a word, zombified. The group freaks out. "Whatever comes out of that Tree might not even be your precious leaders anymore!" Zombies get closer to the group... only for one to be pierced by metal spikes, another one squeezed by vines until it shatters, and another thrown into two more zombies by a massive wind blow.

Ryze: "Now..." his eyes are fully surrounded by white mist

Sam: "You've pissed the wrong people" Mako and Sam both activate their Guardian's powers too

*With Ruby*

Ruby: "I wanted to be the hero, like the stories that my mom read to me. I wanted to be strong, like (Y/N); he never gives up. I just wanted to do the right thing, but every step of the way, it's like... it's like there is no right thing! I tried so... hard. And I..." she tears up, "And I might've just made things worse. I don't understand who I need to BE. Because who I am right now... she's not good enough."

Blacksmith: "What if you could be... Anyone?" dozens of glass cases, each with a different weapon inside, appear in a circle around them

*with the group*

Jaune blocks an attack from the Cat with his shield

Jaune: "All this time. I thought Alyx traded her brother to the tree in order to go back home. And then she lied about what happened here. But it was you," he knocks NeoCat with a blast from his shield. "You were the one who killed... who LIED!"

NeoCat: "You were never the brave knight either!" The Cat jumps at them, but Jaune blocks with his shield. The Cat flips over him, but he strikes with his sword. However, the Cat lands on their claws and starts spinning their legs around at Jaune. "Just more fairytale nonsense!"

Jaune kicks them away, but the Cat charges right back in. Ryze flies in and punches NeoCat in the stomach, knocking them to the ground. Jaune goes in for the kill, but the Cat changes into Penny, making him freeze. A clone of Pyrrha comes in, attacking Jaune from behind, followed by the Cat double-kicking him through Pyrrha, who shatters. Weiss creates a glyph and fires off a fire blast at the Cat, but they shatter, causing the attack to hit Jaune instead. He tumbles and tries to grab onto something, only to grab (Y/N)'s statue as it falls with him to the lower level.

Weiss: "NO!" Ryze tries to catch the two but can't as they disappear into the leaves.

Ryze: "Dammit, Jaune... it's not Beacon anymore" he flies back up. "Bad aim, Ice Queen"

*Ruby*

Ruby walks up to one weapon, looking at it before moving on to the next. She stops in front of one weapon.

Ruby: "Who did this belong to?"

Blacksmith: "It's not about whom it belonged to before, but who it could belong to now. Can you feel it? The weight of the woman who might hold it? Who is she? She could be you. You can choose to wield any of them and put Ruby Rose behind" Some leaves flow by Ruby as she moves to another weapon, where she places her hands on the glass.

Ruby: "It feels... so heavy. I can't feel anything else anymore. And it never. Ever. Goes away. The feeling of not being... enough."

Blacksmith: "And... how would you measure... enough?" Ruby walks to another weapon; this time, it's the same one she saw in the workshop; Summer's weapon.

Summer: "Before she went back home..."

Ruby: "Mom..."

Summer: "The girl had a great many questions to ponder. What... What are you?" Ruby reaches for the weapon.

*With (Y/N)*

The young man sits on the ground, still thinking about his choice

(Y/N): "I can't... I can't do this..."

Albert: "Did you choose, (Y/N)?" (Y/N) looks around, spotting his father, still holding his sword out to him

(Y/N): "I..."

???:" Oh, for crying out loud, Albert! Just let the kid think," Another person appears behind Albert. A man in his forties. (Y/N) recognizes him from some family photos. The man's name is Kadir (L/N), his grandfather and former Fall's Guardian.

Albert: "We don't have much time."

(Y/N): "What's going on here..." As for the answer, many more men show up, all adding their three cents to the conversation.

???#2: "So this is our current heir, pretty interesting."

???#3: "Ye, thou kid look firey, Albert," he spoke in some older language

(Y/N): "Dad... who are they?" Albert sighs.

Albert: "(Y/N)... please welcome all of our ancestors and past Guardians. This is your great-grandfather Teron," Teron, the first man to speak before, waves. "And this is your great-great-grandpa, Olyx," the gentleman using old language, nods. "And this... is the first of our clan, Icaaris" Icaaris, a man with dark hair and light blue streaks in it, looking like small flames, walks up to (Y/N). By his face, the young man assumes he's in his thirties.

Icaaris: "So you're the one who holds our powers now, young one?" (Y/N) nods. "But it seems like it's weakened. What's troubling your mind? Is it what your father told us?" (Y/N) looks at his father as the older man nods.

(Y/N): "It is..."

Icaaris: "So, tell me (Y/N)... what does it mean to you to be a hero... to you."

(Y/N): "I... I don't know."

Icaaris: "Your path is your own, (Y/N) (L/N). You define it yourself. What's your heart telling you... what does it mean to be a hero to you" (Y/N) sighs.

Albert: "Maybe... some truth will help you with this, (Y/N). The day I left you and Mom."

*Flashback*

Albert and Raven wait for Summer near their house in Patch. Albert leans against the Tree while Raven hides for 'her reasons.'

Albert: "Let's see if our big plans will pay off" Summer gets her hood down

Summer: "It's a gamble, but we'll have to try"

Albert: "And you're sure leaving Tai with them is a good idea? Leaving them like this?" Summer huffs.

Summer: "Says who? You left Elly and your son" This time, Albert looks away.

Albert: "I... know, Sum. But I believe it's the way it is. If not us, then it will ultimately be (Y/N) and your daughter's job to do, especially after she takes her looks after you... you know, Silver Eyes. Same as my son."

Summer: "Let's believe we'll do this. For them," Then, Raven lands down.

Raven: "Do they suspect anything?"

Summer: "No, they think it's just another regular mission for Ozpin" Albert nods

Albert: "Same with my family" Raven rolls her eyes

Raven: "First Albert, then Summer Rose telling lies. That's a first."

Albert: "Shove it, Rave" Raven looks back at Summer

Raven: "Are you sure? You're just... going to leave them?"

Summer: "You're one to talk."

Raven: "It's... complicated. You're better at that sort of thing. That life. Far better than me."

Summer: "If we do this right, then it won't be a problem" She knocks on Raven's shoulder, walking past. "Trust me. Albert, you're ready?" Albert gets his sword out.

Albert: "Ready. I just hope you're right, Sum."

Summer: "I hope I am. Anyway, we have to try. Now come on, let's get this done" Raven uses her Semblance, and the three of them enter the portal.

*with Ruby*

Meanwhile, Ruby sees the extended story version as she reels from the vision.

Ruby: "What... What was that? She lied? Why? She left with Raven and (Y/N)'s dad. Why would she do that?!"

Blacksmith: "Who knows why people keep secrets at times? Perhaps, like you, she too felt the weight of others' expectations on her shoulders. Like Alyx. Like (Y/N) and his father before him," Ruby clenches her fists and pushes the case containing Summer's weapon, as it smashes to pieces on the floor, with the weapon now gone.

Ruby: "Are you just trying to tell me that it's useless? That I shouldn't even try? Is that the big lesson I'm supposed to learn? Just... give up?" she falls to her knees, her reflection in the broken glass "To become someone else?" Blacksmith approaches her from before,

Blacksmith: "Is that what you think I'm trying to tell you?"

*With (Y/N)*

(Y/N): "So what? You left with Raven and Summer to defeat Salem. How does it help me to understand?"

Albert: "Well... you better hurry up; your time is short, (Y/N). Either... kill me or stay dead" Then Icaaris turns to Albert.

Icaaris: "Is this what it's all about?" he chuckles. "A trail of the Tree. Young (Y/N), there is yet another thing the Tree or your father didn't tell you. That's simply a choice of who you are. So tell me... who are you? What makes you, you?"

*With the group*

Blake does a backflip to evade a slash from NeoCat. It tries to attack again, but in comes Mako with his fist enveloped in metal as he delivers a series of punches. NeoCat deflects and tires a series of his own, but Mako blocks it by shielding his arms in steel, followed by a kick to the side, sending the Cat over to Ryze. He uses his Semblance, trying to pin them, but the wind disperses upon hitting the target. Then, two vines get around NeoCat's arms as Sam tries to handcuff their adversary. At the same time, Weiss stabs her rapier into the ground, icing the footing beneath them. Yang jumps over the Cat, smashing her fist into the ground to create a smokescreen. She, Mako, and Weiss jump through to attack NeoCat, only to somersault out of the way, while Cat swings Sam right into Ryze, making his vines lose and freeing themselves. The three attack again, as goes NeoCat, only for something to hit the Cat aside.

???: "Give her back" The group looks up, and in the middle of the field stands Tick, with her blades out, looking with murderous intent and snarling at NeoCat "Give Neo back!" she rushes the Cat again.

Ryze: "Did she... switched sides, like Emerald?"

Yang: "Questions for later. Let's go!" she, Ryze, Mako, Sam, and Weiss go to join Tick in her attack, only for a branch to get in their way. They look up to see Jaune cutting more branches off.

Jaune: "The leaves! Burn the leaves!"

Mako: "When did he end up there?"

Yang: "No time, just do it!" she fires her gauntlets into the branch, setting the leaves on fire. Blake uses a fire clone from her Semblance, and Weiss uses her glyphs together with Ryze using his Semblance to blow the smoke toward NeoCat.

Mako: "Tick, get back!" he shouts at the crocodile Faunus, who looks back and nods

Tick: "Your idea better work!" she regroups with the rest. "Just to be clear, I do it for Neo, not any of you" Ryze, Sam, and Mako roll their eyes while NeoCat laughs.

NeoCat: "Trying to do to me what the Herbalist once did to you? Please..." They inhale the smoke. "The leaves have no effect on me."

Jaune: "Maybe not you, but that's not the case with Neo" he smirks while NeoCat suddenly freezes and gets on their knees.

NeoCat: "No... These regrets... These feelings and emotions. I can't... I can't take it... No, no!" a light bursts out of their chest as they're engulfed in the smoke. The gang awaits, weapons ready just in case. Soon, Neo emerges from the smoke, free from the Cat's control. She runs out and gets on her knees while Tick runs to her to help.

Tick: "Neo, what the fuck? You getting under that thing control wasn't the plan!" Neo only coughs without any noise. The rest look back into the smoke, hearing the Cat laugh, only to reveal their appearance has changed. They're now bigger and have an eviler appearance around them, coated in black and white fur.

Mako: "You've gotta be fucking kidding me..." The Cat jumps and smashes the ground in front of them, sending them flying.

*With Ruby*

Blacksmith: "Your time is running out. You must make a choice. Choose either one who can leave your burdens behind... or choose one who will be enough to bear them" As Ruby reflects on her choices, her friends fight the Cat. Ryze tries his usual 'hack and slash' technic, only for Cat to lean back and grab his legs as he flies by before spinning him and throwing him into Yang. Mako and Sam tag team, punching the ground and sending a mix of spikes and thorns at the Cat. It blasts them away with a stream of energy from its mouth, nearly taking out Mako if not for Ryze, grabbing him, and zooming away.

*With (Y/N)*

https://youtu.be/X9Hrq9dzNSs

A/N: You can play the whole song or start at 1:44. Your choice.

Icaaris: "Who is (Y/N) (L/N)..."

(Y/N): "I... I'm a Huntsman... I always wanted to be one... as by surprise, I'm also a Fall Guardian, the current host of the ancient magical power... I am..." The rest of the ancestors look in anticipation. "I am not a hero," (Y/N) says. "To be a hero, you must put others before yourself; it's to listen to your heart and do the right thing, even if others disagree. It's to be there for them, to pick them up! To be their refuge! I am not one; I can only be me. The one me who protects and cares about those close to him. I defend those who can't fight. I'm (Y/N) (L/N)," (Y/N) shouts and looks at his father. "If you think I'm Ruby's hero, and if she thinks I am, then maybe I am. If she really feels I'm her hero, then that's who I am; if not, then I'm not. It's not for me to decide" Albert meanwhile claps.

Albert: "There is your answer," he chuckles. "All it needed was to bring our ancestors," (Y/N) chuckles.

(Y/N): "That still doesn't solve the problem... Dad, I can't kill you; I just can't" Meanwhile, Icaaris burst out laughing. "What's so funny, oh 'the first one'?"

Icaaris: "Your time is not over, (Y/N) (L/N)" (Y/N) looks at him. "You will be back stronger. With your flame rekindled," he snaps his fingers.

(Y/N): "Rekindled..." (Y/N) thinks for a little "Okay, when will I-" Suddenly, his body starts to disappear in light blue flames. "Huh?" Albert steps in front of him.

Albert: "You're coming back to your Rose." He smiles and hugs (Y/N). "It was great to see you again, squirt," (Y/N) hugs him back.

(Y/N): "You too, Dad... will I see you again?" Albert chuckles and pokes (Y/N) chest.

Albert: "Of course, kiddo, we will meet again one day. You will meet all of us again" Former Fall Guardians stand behind Albert, each giving the young adult a goodbye. (Y/N) gets one tear out of his eye and smiles.

(Y/N): "Sure thing. Goodbye," and with that, the young adult disappears with the last cinder of blue flame

*General 3rd POV*

Ruby keeps looking over the weapons before collapsing on her knees once more.

Summer: "I love you... just the way you are" Ruby looks back at the red light. She runs to it as other weapons disappear, only to find Crescent Rose locked in a glass case.

Ruby: "This one, I choose this one. What happens if I choose me?" Blacksmith reappears and kneels next to her.

Blacksmith: "Then I think that girl... is enough" The two smile at each other. Ruby reaches in for her weapon. Meanwhile, in The Ever After, the gang continues their battle, not noticing the wood cocoon of Ruby starts to crack. A level deeper, (Y/N)'s cocoon also starts to crack, with light blue flames emerging from the cracks. Meanwhile, Ruby falls after her weapon, trying to catch it and finally succeeding.

*Start playing Red Like Roses III. Sorry for the size. Wattpad 3 MB GIF limitation is a joke...*

https://youtu.be/GpBWI_ehFH4

*edit: added the song*

In The Ever After, her cocoon finally breaks, engulfing the area in white light. Everyone looks back to see Ruby, her emblem returned, wielding her scythe.

Weiss: "Ruby!"

Yang: "You're... You're still you,"

Blake: "But how?" Jaune looks at what's happening and smiles.

Jaune: "She knew what she needed to be all along."

One level below, a light blue flame shines light like the sun as (Y/N) breaks from his wooden prison. With one thing in his mind.

(Y/N): "Red" he activates his Semblance and zooms up. However, there is something new about him.

Up top, the Curious Cat laughs.

Curious Cat: "How PUUURRRFECT!" it jumps to attack Ruby. However, a light blue flame crashes between them, stopping the Cat's push. After the dust has settled, two teams look at the newcomer, only to spot (Y/N) engulfed in light blue flames. The only difference from his old self is some streaks of light blue in his hair, looking like fire. He opens his eyes and looks at Ruby.

(Y/N): "Hey, Red. Mind if I help?" he smirks at her and later looks back at the Cat and draws his scythe. Mortem, like its owner, changed. From a single-bladed scythe, it turned into a double one. "This ends here."

The Cat roars and tries to pounce at (Y/N), but (Y/N) blocks it with a pole of his scythe, as it disconnects in the middle, creating two Kamas. (Y/N) twirls his blades, pushing the Cat back. They trade blows, but (Y/N) still has the upper hand on his opponent. Using one of his Kamas and Semblance as a boost, he shoots the Cat up in the air before connecting his weapons back into a scythe, jumping up, and swinging the Cat back into the ground. As the Cat tries to get up, Ruby flies in, swinging her scythe at him, sending him to the side. The Cat returns to their feet, but Ruby is already on him. She twirls her scythe and makes a flurry of attacks at the Cat. (Y/N) flies in and attacks Cat's left side; two Reapers strike high and low, to the side and the center, being sure not to give the Cat any opening. It tries swinging at them, but (Y/N) blinds it with a bright flame. They branch out, revealing Ruby within as she fires a shot at the Cat's face, staggering Cat can't handle the combined onslaught. Then, (Y/N) scythe shines in the same flame as his streaks, sending a fire wave at the Cat and throwing them to the center of the Tree. The Cat looks around as two teams surround it. It growls before unleashing a breath attack at Ruby and (Y/N), causing the pair to jump back. Blake comes in from behind, but the Cat turns their attack on her.

However, the Cat only gets her clone from her Semblance, as the actual Cat Faunus swings her blade down on them. The Cat evades and swipes at her, but she jumps back, allowing Mako to jump in. He punches Cat's back and blocks a claw strike tight after. Ryze and Yang come next, as Ryze uses his Semblance to deliver a jet-powered punch to the stomach, while Yang punches Cat's face, sending them back. When they try to stand up, their feet are frozen to the ground, as vines hinder their arms around their torso. She summons a Nevermore to attack, but the Cat destroys it with another breath attack. (Y/N) tries a sneak attack from behind. The Cat breaks free from the ice and jumps into the air to dodge the attack; they get surrounded in midair by Ruby, Yang, and Blake. Weiss creates a series of glyphs around them, and the trio makes a series of attacks all across the area from all angles.

The Cat gets attacked from every direction until all four members of Team RWBY make a joint strike to send him flying downward. On the ground, Ryze, Mako, and Sam throw a triple uppercut with their Semblance, hitting the Cat's stomach and sending them flying back into the air. Ruby and (Y/N) get above them, and (Y/N) sends some of his flames to Ruby, who gets enveloped in it. (Y/N) swings his scythe, sending Ruby at the Cat like a missile of rose petals and blue flame. The collision creates a shockwave in midair that sends the Cat crashing into the floor, throwing up smoke and debris. When the dust settles, the gang all stand before the Cat, who has reverted to their original form.

Curious Cat: "You... You're broken! You break everything around you. Just like the rest of you humans. Weak! Confused! Incomplete!"

Weiss: "No, you're wrong."

Yang: "Ruby's never been any one of those things."

Blake: "Ruby is Ruby. That's why we follow her. That's why she's our leader."

Ryze: "And (Y/N) may be an asshole who's hard on himself, but he never gives up"

Mako: "He has pushed us beyond our limits, but he's the energy that keeps us all going. That's why he's our leader."

Sam: "Right, (Y/N)?" (Y/N), however, looks at them confused

(Y/N): "Thanks for the words, guys... but... Who are you?" this made the group look in shock at the Fall's Guardian while Cat laughs.

Jaune: "Oh no..."

Curious Cat: "Haha! As I said, you never know what the Tree does to you" However, finally having enough of it, Tick comes in and smacks the Cat with her blades, sending it into a pack of Jabberwalkers, courtesy of Neo. "No! No, no, NO!" while distraught, the group returns to the matter at hand.

Ryze: "(L/N), stop playing your stupid pranks. It's not the time."

Mako: "Hey, (Y/N), come on!"

Sam: "Goddammit," he gets to (Y/N)'s face. "You're telling me you don't recognize any of us?!" he asks in despair and anger.

(Y/N): "Umm... I'm sorry, but none of you looks familiar" The girls look distraught, and a tear escapes Ruby's eyes. Ryze meanwhile punches (Y/N)

Ryze: "You motherfucker! How dare you forget about us!" he growls with anger, tears slipping from his eyes.

Yang: "Ryze, hon, calm down" She looks back at (Y/N). "Come on (Y/N), it's not funny. Weiss do something; you're his best friend."

Weiss: "(Y/N), remember the times you laughed at my sister? While she was learning her glyphs?" However, (Y/N) looks confused

(Y/N): "I'm sorry, but nope. I know my name, my weapon's name, and-" Ruby cuts him off.

Ruby: "Dummy..." she gets in front of (Y/N). "You're a dummy..." She hits his chest with her head and wraps her arms tightly around his torso. "Why... why did you follow me..." she sniffs. "Now... you're not even recognizing us, nor your teammates, your friends... me..." she begins weeping. "Why did you do that (Y/N)?"

(Y/N): "Um... Red?"

Ruby: "I'm Ruby!" she nearly shouts

(Y/N): "Yeah... Ruby... listen, I want, I try to remember, but... I can't" However, Summer and Yang didn't raise a quitter, as well as she knew some stories with familiar plots; however, it's not a story from a book, it's a real-life scenario now, and it could not work.

Ruby: "Then..." she gets on her tiptoes, "I will make you remember" With that, she plants a soft kiss on (Y/N) lips. As (Y/N)'s eyes shine with his light, his mind is suddenly rushed with memories.

*Flashback*

(Y/N) backs up from a bunch of henchmen, he's back to back with a girl in a black outfit and red hood

(Y/N): "Hey Red, mind if I help?" Red looks at his weapons and gets excited.

*Flashback #2*

(Y/N): "Have faith in your girls like I have faith in my boys. Weiss will come around, maybe not now, maybe not this week," Ruby groaned. "Maybe not even during the first semester, "Ruby groaned louder "But she will, and I'm sure she will try to be the best teammate you will ever have. And I'm sure that one day you'll be an amazing leader that everyone respects" Ruby, instead of groaning, got (Y/N) in a tight hug with a massive smile on her face.

Ruby: "Thank you (Y/N). You are right, and I will not let you down" (Y/N) returned the hug. "And I'm sure you will be an amazing leader too."

(Y/N): "Thanks, Petals"

*Flashback #3*

Ruby: "Are you... asking me on a date?" she blushed more

(Y/N): "Yeah, you want to know why?" she nodded. "Because," (Y/N) looks deep into Ruby's Silver Eyes," I love you, Ruby" Now Ruby's face was redder than her cape

*End of flashbacks*

Many memories flood into (Y/N) mind, Fall of Beacon, travel to Mistral and what happened there, travel to Atlas and what happened during it, and finally arriving in Atlas and its fall. But most important are his memories with Ruby. Their first kiss, their first date, the two dancing at Beacon's dance, their 'affairs,' and finally, their engagement and promise.

Ruby breaks the kiss and cries into (Y/N)'s chest.

Ruby: "Please, Cookie, you have to remember us. You have to remember me," she almost whispers.

*(Y/N) POV*

I open my eyes and look down, spotting Ruby in tears, hugging my torso tightly. To comfort her, I wrap my arms around her too. She looks up, making me take a look at her teary face as shock creeps into her expression.

Ruby: "C-Cookie?" I look at her and smile.

(Y/N): "The one and only, Petals" I smile at the girl as she looks at me, tears of joy escaping her eyes, and she hugs me tightly. "Ruby, something happened?"

Ruby: "No (Y/N)... it's fine now," she sniffs as the rest of our friends join us in a tight group hug

Ryze: "You're a goddamn lucky your little Rose get your memories back, otherwise, Mako and I planned to kick your ass until you'd remember us" he chuckles

Yang: "You two surely gave us a scare." she ruffles Ruby's hair, and they set us free, only for Ruby and I to embrace again

(Y/N): "You're a dumb flower, Petals. Drinking a suicide tea."

Ruby: "Look who says that," she giggles after rolling her eyes. "Wait, your hair."

(Y/N): "Guess you're not the only one who gained something out of all of this," I chuckle. "What? First Fall Guardian had the same streaks."

Ruby: "It's... different, but cute," she comments with a giggle

(Y/N): "Yeah..." I clear my throat. "Rubes, listen... I'm sorry; I tried to protect you but couldn't help. Well, who knew it? You didn't need my help anyway this time around. I just... couldn't. I wanted to be your hero, and I just couldn't..."

Ruby: "But (Y/N)" She cups my face with both hands, making me look into her eyes. "Don't you understand? I'll always need you, and you'll always be my hero. I love you, (Y/N)" She leans in for another kiss, which I accept without a blink.

(Y/N): "I love you too, Ruby" However, our moment takes too long for someone, as Weiss clears her throat, interrupting us, "Okay, we're good now. So, these doors lead to Remnant" I stand up and walk toward them before turning around... spotting an illusion of Roman Torchwick disappearing into thin air and... Tick holding a hand on Neo's shoulder in support.

Jaune: "What do we do about them?"

(Y/N): "Neo. Tick," the two girls look at me. "If you want... we can help you get revenge on Cinder, you know" However, Tick laughs aloud, and Neo giggles silently.

Tick: "Heh, sharp as ever, Grimm Reaper. Listen... Neo needs to do some discoveries about herself... and I just got another existential crisis. So... I think the tree has some answers for us." she smirks while Neo points her umbrella at us but then offers an elegant bow before jumping back, her umbrella acting like a parachute. She slowly descents into the branches, and she's taken by the tree "One day we will be back. Who knows, maybe fighting on the same side this time" she salutes, and somersaults into the branches, appearing on another trunk as a tree statue.

(Y/N): "You heard them. They need to find themselves."

Ruby: "Or become something new. It's up to them to decide" We turn to head to the door, but Ruby stops and looks back, causing us to turn too.

(Y/N): "What's wrong, Petals?"

Ruby: "I just... when I was in the Tree... I never even got to see Little. I wanted to say thank you for everything they've done for me, for us."

Blake: "You guys don't think we've just made things... worse in the Ever After, right? You know, like Alyx?"

Ruby: "I don't know. But, I like to think we at least did some good. Don't you think?"

???: "Wait!" we look back to see a much larger rodent-like creature running up to the group, wearing some clothes and walking on two legs; as it approaches us

(Y/N): "Is that..."

Ruby: "Little?!" she starts jumping up and down in excitement while 'Little' looks back at us

Little?: "Um, have we met before?"

Ruby: "Sorry, I don't believe we have. Please, tell me, what are you?"

Little?: "I'm... actually, I'm not sure what I am right now. You look like you have your head on straight. Maybe you know?"

Ruby: "Well, you look like... a friend to me."

(Y/N): "Or a guide, perhaps a protector?"

Yang: "A... dorable!" we laugh a little

Ruby: "Sounds like any of those work for you?" the rodent scratches its chin,

Little?: "Hmmm, somewhat... Actually, yeah, Somewhat. I'm not any one thing. I'm Somewhat of a lot of things!" Somewhat decides.

Ruby: "It's a pleasure to meet you, Somewhat."

Somewhat: "It will be my honor to serve you," it bows

(Y/N): "You've done more for us than you will ever know" I smile

Somewhat: "You know... you do feel... familiar. All of you do" Ruby kneels before them.

Ruby: "I know you'll do your best and help lots of people" She tears up. "I'm so glad we got to meet you. But now we have to say goodbye" She hugs Somewhat, who returns the embrace.

Somewhat: "It will be alright... Huntress," Ruby cries happy tears before they separate.

Jaune: "Hey, Somewhat," Jaune calls, holding Juniper's rains, as Somewhat makes the way to them

Somewhat: "I am at your service!"

Jaune: "Will you take care of Juniper for me? She means a lot to me" Jaune nuzzles with the jackalope while Somewhat bows.

Somewhat: "I will never leave her side."

Jaune: "Thank you" he smiles while Juniper lowers her head, allowing Somewhat to jump on her back. The rodent salute at us before the new duo takes their leave. Jaune is a little heartbroken to see her go but decides to walk with us to the doorway. We all hold hands.

(Y/N): "Alright, everyone, together" I look around as everyone else nods, and we leap through the door, only to find ourselves in the spiritual plane of the Tree. Landing safely, we follow Ruby. The rest looks around like they have never been here. We approach a familiar figure with a whole workshop around them. The figure appears to be making wood carvings of Afterans.

*play the song*

https://youtu.be/6y3-yzpohfE

Blacksmith: "Welcome to my workshop."

(Y/N): "Hello to you too, Tree" I nod

Ryze: "Wait, (L/N), you're telling me that this," he points at Blacksmith, "is the Tree?" I wave my hand.

(Y/N): "Something like that, right Rubes?"

Ruby: "Why are you asking me? I dunno" She shrugs while Blacksmith looks at Jaune.

Blacksmith: "I've been waiting long for you to appear," Jaune sighs.

Jaune: "Well, better late than never, I suppose."

Blacksmith: "I'm glad you did" Jaune looks at the wood figures, picking one of Juniper.

Jaune: "Can you answer a question for me? Was the Cat telling the truth? That only Lewis went back home... and Alyx..."

Blacksmith: "Yes. Only Lewis returned home. The Girl Who Fell through the World is the story as he wished it to happen" She stands up, reviling two wood cravings of very familiar dragons.

Weiss: "Are those...?"

(Y/N): "The Brothers of Light and Darkness..." The Blacksmith picks up the two figures.

Blacksmith: "Yes. The two brothers were the first beings ever to be born here in the Ever After. They were incredible beings. Very ambitious. Even the Tree did not foresee how they would grow and what they would become. But that is what precisely makes creating so spectacular. Not knowing what will come next. Back then, the Ever After was overgrown, wild, and unpredictable. The brothers were born to help control it. To bring balance to this world. First, they used the gift of destruction to cleanse the land. Then they used the gift of creation to think of what and whom would replace what they had destroyed. They built homes for these new beings and gave each a purpose to fulfill."

Ryze: "Okay... so how come they ended up on Remnant? Creating humanity?"

Blacksmith: "The brothers became curious. They strived to do more. Thus, they began to make their own creations with the skills and gifts they had in secrecy. Thus, the Curious Cat was born. And this creation proved to be able enough to perform their work in the Ever After for them. Their first creation went beyond their expectations. So, they decided to create a second creature. To finish the Cat's work. It came out brutal, and most effective at its purpose. The Jabberwalker. However, one of the brothers believed they had upset the balance and tried to destroy their second creation. But, the other brother did not believe in condemning their creations for their mistakes. The brothers did not understand that balance is not two forces locked in an unending battle. Balance is an ecosystem, an organism, a living, breathing thing. Thus, balance cannot be restored by simply forcing it to or through precise calculations. Balance finds its own equilibrium. The only things it needs are the love and patience to see things through to the end."

Sam: "That still doesn't answer us; how did they get on Remnant."

Blacksmith: "The Ever After could not handle all the experiments the brothers were conducting. And so, it created a doorway to an infinite beyond. Where the brothers could go and create their own worlds. The doorway would remain open for whenever the brothers returned. Or should their creations ever come here? And they accomplished incredible things. Whenever the brothers' creations come to the Ever After... The nine of you have made a far greater impact on this world than you know. Just like Alyx and Lewis, who came before you... And just like those who will come after you," she waves her hand and shows Ruby a figure of Somewhat before handing it to her "One simple act of kindness in, but a single moment in time resulted in such an incredible transformation" Ruby smiles and sheds some tears looking at the carving, thinking about Little. I hold her shoulder, remembering the little rodent who greatly helped us. Meanwhile, Blacksmith holds a Curious Cat figure: "Much like one act of dishonesty... caused an unfortunate change..."

Jaune: "Alyx broke her promise to the Cat."

Blacksmith: "Such a tragic thing, to have a broken heart. And with no means of sending them back to the Tree to be healed."

Ruby: "Okay. What will happen to Neo?"

Blacksmith: "She will have the chance to return her broken heart... and ascend into something new. Such is the way of balance" She twirls with a dagger, Alyx's dagger.

Jaune: "That's Alyx's knife. Wait, how did you have this?"

Blacksmith: "When Alyx met her end, she made a choice. To leave a piece of herself behind. A wish... to fix what she had broken" She hands Jaune the blade as it shines in the light. When the light fades, we see Jaune back to his good, old, goofy, young self. Our blonde friend feels his face.

Jaune: "I... I can't believe it. It's been so long since...Wait... This... is what I sounded like?" he freezes while our laugh fills the area

(Y/N): "Welcome back to your teens, Vomit Boy" I pat his back and turn to the Blacksmith. "What about Tick? What will happen to her?"

Blacksmith: "She's merely waiting for her time to come, having time to rethink her goals and actions. She, too, will be allowed back on Remnant after finding what she wants."

Yang: "Oh great," she slumps. "Like (Y/N) having a stalker again will help us later..."

(Y/N): "She better comes back... there is a thing or two I need her to understand. I will not let the hate continue to flow after two generations" Blacksmith nods and opens a portal.

Ruby: "Where will this take us?" Blacksmith approaches the doorway.

Blacksmith: "Not where, WHEN you are needed most" Ruby nods, and our group enters, pair by pair

Mako: "Ladies first," he bows to Blake, holding her hand; the two walk through the portal. Yang and Ryze walk after them, and later Sam and Weiss, followed by Jaune, while Ruby and I stay to say goodbye. Ruby and I hold a hand and turn back to the Blacksmith.

Ruby: "Thank you..."

(Y/N): "For everything you've done for us" We smile as Blacksmith waves us goodbye, and we step through the portal... only to find ourselves behind the rest of our friends in the middle of... a desert. Let's say the view brings joy to my heart. Ryze confirms it.

Ryze: "Ladies and Gentlemen... Welcome to Vacuo" he smiles. "My turf," he states proudly and smirks now. Ruby and I step forward, spotting in the distance the fourth kingdom of Remnant, Vacuo. What makes us even happier is an international air fleet hoovering above the kingdom. Airships from all the kingdoms and Amity Colosseum floats above in the sky, united against Salem. I let a small tear escape my eye while holding Ruby's hand tighter and rubbing it with my thumb.

(Y/N): "Petals... we did it. They're here... everyone from Remnant is here... because of you, Ruby. Everyone heard your message. It wasn't for nothing. We actually united all Remnant" Ruby tears up and hugs my arm, smiling a little more.

Ruby: "It was OUR message, (Y/N). We did it" I smile and look ahead to Vacuo

(Y/N): "Alright... let's save the world... Together..."

'This will be the day we've waited for
This will be the day we open up the door.'

https://youtu.be/tlvTKQAmngk

A/N: "Volume 9: finished. Again, guys, it's a great pleasure to write, and I love writing this story, but well, now Hiatus begins *dun dun dunnn*. As always, I treat my books like an adventure, and this one is I hope still to see their final. Ruby and (Y/N)'s teams and Jaune got back from The Ever After and are on the outskirts of Vacuo, while young Reapers' message got the world to unite. What happens there? Will Elly hug the life out of the duo? What will be the twins' father's reaction to seeing Sam? Who else could be there to help them? Wait and see in Volume 10 of Continuing the Legacy!

As for the whole Volume... the best out of the latest three... Vol 7 would be better if SOMEONE didn't decide to make Ironwood a total control freak and turn him into a villain. But it is what it is. Also, music... oh my... this Volume has the best OST so far! Good job from Casey. Story-wise, it could have changed some things here and there but also resulted in some great things. Like the Homophobic Ruby meme... thanks to that, some people get back to the fandom. Anyway, what do you think about Volume 9?

Until then, I'm returning to Reapers' rework, and after that, I will start working on 'A Bird and a Cat' as an AU book of RWBY, in which we will 'repair' some things.

As always, thanks to my sweet Vera__99 for editing and giving me some ideas.

Another thanks, pedrovrc for creating a picture I use as my avatar. Check his Twitter: https://twitter.com/pedrovrcart

And thank you, reader, for reading this story and liking it for whatever reason.

Until then, I will try to be active, post other stories, and be active with the community ;). Let's hope Volume 10 gets greenlit soon.

As always, feel free to vote and comment

Punkie and Vera out and over ;)

RWBY belongs to Rooster Teeth and was created by Monty Oum

OCs belong to me

(Y/N) belong to you (and to Ruby).