Chapter16: A Past Long Forgotten

As the world twirls around you, Harrier remains ever still as he stares at you through his darkened glasses. He smirks underneath the cover of his cloak. Finally, you stare at him with all your will.

"Harrier... Slater," you mumble, still trying to accept the fact you have any family whatsoever.

Ruby keeps looking back and forth between you and Harrier. It's clear by the look on your face that you're not coping with the news well, but your eyes seem to be lost in another world, even if they're staring directly at Harrier. Glynda and Ozpin keep their eyes on Harrier.

Harrier gives absolutely no body language to indicate what he's thinking. His cloak, covering absolutely everything down to his feet, is hidden. Even his eyes are untraceable. But you know, you KNOW he's looking at you, examining you, getting a read on exactly what you are. Glynda doesn't like that one bit. She knows he's here for you, but to what extent eludes her. Is he here to harm? To help? After their time at Beacon Harrier became a complete wild card.

"You look like Jet when you're dumbfounded. That aimless expression." Harrier adds. "I even see a bit of your mother in you, but there's no doubt you're a Slater." Harrier slowly approaches the four of you, to which Glynda assumes a somewhat defensive stance. Ozpin remains calm during this situation, but he knows this could go south very fast. He especially can't leave you and Harrier together until he knows his full intentions.

"Glynda, why the hostility? We're old friends – practically family," Harrier conveys, feigning the pain Glynda's causing.

Ruby lightly grabs your arm and shakes you in an attempt to bring you back from whatever realm you're stuck in. You shake your head, still dazed and confused, but more grounded in reality than you were. You take steps towards Harrier, leaving everyone else behind.

"(Y/N)!" Ozpin sharply whispers.

You and Harrier approach each other. Harrier smirks at your courage. Not often does a man approach him without a hint of fear. Then again, it's been sometime since he's seen anyone he hasn't immediately needed to take down. You both finally reach each other, standing face to face. He's taller than you, but not by much. You're still just a teenager, while he's a grown man. The difference is noticeable, but not sizeable. You can't see his eyes through the dense glasses, but there's still a tension of a stare down.

"You're... my uncle?" You ask.

Harrier nods.

"I was your father's brother, so yes."

You look away from his eyes, pondering what to say next. Once you have a question, you reform the connection.

"So where've you been all this time? Did my father not want me to be with you?"

Harrier remains silent for a time.

"I believe, though was not told, that you were meant to learn various fighting styles from various individuals, which sent you all over Vale. Truth be told, I've been looking for you for the past few years, but seeing as how you were sent all over Remnant it's been more tedious than I originally predicted."

A smile slowly creeps onto your face, then you spontaneously throw your arms around Harrier. This action somewhat surprises Harrier, but he doesn't move. Glynda and Ozpin remain at the ready, Glynda's riding crop prepared to get you away from him, or move him away from you. Ruby, on the other hand, isn't stupid. She can tell the two professors are uneasy with Harrier's arrival, but the reason is still a mystery. Though Harrier isn't the friendliest man Ruby's ever met, he hasn't shown any sign of being hostile, or having ill intentions. In fact, he seems to be accepting the hug you're giving him.

You can feel Harrier's arms at his side under the cloak being bound by your actions, but you don't care right now. Somehow you still have family – blood relations! You still consider the people at Beacon to be very close friends, but the sudden realization that you're not the only Slater left in the world is a huge relief. You can't help but be happy at this news, and can't help but hold this new family member tight. You haven't had true family for over a decade, so all these repressed emotions are bursting to the surface. To your surprise, you feel light tears trail down your face. Harrier can see them as he watches you.

You back off from him and wipe the tears off your face. Ruby's actually smiling at the fact you're crying. She's happy for you!

"I... sorry. I seem to be crying a lot more than I ever have," you chuckle, making sure all the tears are gone.

Harrier snickers.

"Worse has gotten on this cloak, so you're fine. It's pleasant to you as well. Would you care to walk with me? Perhaps detour Vale? It's been some time since I've been in the city."

You enthusiastically nod.

"Yeah! Definitely!" You turn back to face Ruby. "Hey, Little Red. You mind if we delay that board game until tomorrow."

Ruby nods and smiles.

"Sure."

You nod back at her then turn to Harrier.

"So... do you wanna go?" You cheerfully ask, gesturing towards the airship incoming.

"Of course," he replies before looking at Glynda and Ozpin. "It was good to see you both. We'll definitely catch up while I'm here. And don't worry, I'll take care of (Y/N)."

Glynda snarls at him while Ozpin keeps her at bay with his slight step forward.

"Harrier," he calls out, drawing Harrier's attention. "Nothing happens to (Y/N). Do you understand me?"

"Of course."

You and Harrier approach the docking area and await the incoming ship. Glynda, Ozpin, and Ruby watch you three.

"Ms. Rose... I advise you return to your dorm," Ozpin states.

"What? But I-"

"Please, Ms. Rose," Ozpin repeats.

Ruby shrinks on herself then nods. She skulks back to her room, giving you one last glance. Ozpin and Glynda continue to watch.

"We can't let them be together, Ozpin. You know what cou-"

"I believe (Y/N) is smart enough and strong enough to handle himself should the need arise. But for now... I say we observe. If you wish, you may follow them."

Glynda nods, knowing instantly that she won't let you be alone.

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You and Harrier arrive in Vale, departing the airship with more than enough stares. Even compared to other Huntsmen, Harrier is a very noteworthy individual. It's hard to miss him, and that can flip between being good and being bad. Though it really doesn't matter for Harrier. Whether people perceive him as a threat or an ally means nothing to him, especially after so long of living in the real world. He knows Beacon, all the schools are nothing compared to being out in the field every day, fighting Grimm or even fellow Huntsmen. Either way, there's nothing that's a true threat to him in Vale. Nothing.

But, that's not the point of this adventure. The point is to spend time with someone he's been pursing for a long time, and he still has a question he needs answered, though you'll never be able to answer it. Your actions will speak for yourself. You, on the other hand, are walking like a seven-year-old boy. You're ecstaticed at this opportunity and have a lot of questions to ask your long lost uncle.

Once you both get moving and out of the flush of students, you finally have time to talk.

"So you know Glynda and Ozpin?"

Harrier nods.

"Yes. Ozpin for a different reason, but Glynda and I were quite close during our school days. You know she was in a relationship with your father, right?"

You nod, slowly remembering the pain you caused her when you first arrived.

"Yeah, I know. I also know my presence was, and might still be, difficult on her. Wait, is that the same reason she was sort... Glynda-ie with you?" You ponder.

"Haha, no. We parted on... less than pleasant terms. Perhaps that'll change for the short time I'll be here."

"Oh?" You recoil a bit. "You'll only be here for a bit?"

"Yes. As rewarding as it is to meet you, I cannot stay for very long."

You throw your hands into your pockets and sigh. You're not even sure why you're so disappointed. You haven't known him for very long, but a part of you really wants to change that. You want to be close to your only other family.

"So you were the only survivor when your village was attacked, right?" Harrier asks, finally starting a conversation.

"Oh, yeah, I think so. I... didn't think you'd bring that up. It is where your brother was killed."

Harrier sighs.

"Yes, it was. I even got there, but it was too late to save Jet or Clementine."

"Wait, you were there?" You exclaim.

Harrier remains as calm as ever.

"I was, but too late. Even with Jet's healing semblance, he was not immortal. He was overwhelmed once he saved you, and your mother wasn't much of a fighter. I did finish off the remaining Grimm before anyone else arrived. I made my peace, then left. That's all I could do."

You move your fingers while they situate in your pockets as a way to ignore the possible memories of that day.

"S-So what took you so long to find me?"

Harrier turns his eyes to see you, then returns them to see what's ahead.

"I was unaware you were alive. I assume you perished with the rest, but a few years back I heard rumours of another Slater. Since I have no living wife or children, it was only fair to assume that you survived."

"I see," you nod. "Have you ever gone back to the village? Has it been rebuilt?"

Harrier snickers.

"I haven't. Shouldn't you know? Have you not returned?"

"No, never," you genuinely answer. "I don't even remember where it was..."

Harrier stops, then turns to you. He extends his hand forward, pushing through the folds of his cloak until his hand reveals itself.

"Hand me your scroll. I remember the coordinates off by heart."

You take your hand out of your pocket and reach to a lower one running down your leg. You slip your scroll out of it and hand it over to Harrier. Harrier enters a series of numbers into your scroll, then shuts it.

"There," he hands it back to you then proceeds to walk. "You now know where it is."

"Wow... thank you, Harrier. Wait, will you not just come with me?"

Harrier slows down for a moment, then shakes his head with conviction.

"Maybe one day, but I'll allow you to go there on your own first."

You raise your brow at his words, but quickly accept them. It's possible he has bad memories of the place too. But now you have the location, so you'll at least be able to visit there when you're able. But that's a whole other problem on its own. Students generally can't take flights that aren't directly to Vale unless it's under orders of Ozpin, or it's a mission, which is still under orders of Ozpin. Either way there isn't a way there. You could always ask Ozpin or Glynda to accompany you, but... you're unsure whether they would allow you too. Perhaps Weiss can take you with one of her company aircrafts. Plenty of ideas flow through your mind, but you'll worry about it more later. Right now is your time with Harrier.

You both approach a light and wait for it to allow you to pass.

"So what have you been doing all these years? You already know everything about me," you inquire.

"Wandering would be the best term," he bluntly says. "I've met people, learned, and have gained somewhat of a reputation."

"Reputation for what?"

Harrier smirks.

"Never losing."

You smile from excitement.

"You think we could have a match?"

Harrier chuckles.

"You know how many times your father and I have fought? Admittedly... I'm interested in fighting you. But as you are now... you wouldn't touch me," he says deadly serious.

"Hey! I'm pretty strong you know!" You argue.

The light turns green, allowing you two to proceed.

"You may be, but you're a student, a rookie. I'm in a whole different league than you are."

You cross your arms and roll your eyes. You don't want to be told you're weaker than someone, you want to learn it. You want to know what your weaknesses are and how to build on them. You haven't lost since coming to Beacon, unless you want to count the first battle with RWBY, but you were holding back.

"You're a Slater, so I know you'll get strong. We'll fight soon, don't worry. To be honest," Harrier looks down at you. "I'm looking forward to seeing what you can do. Now, let's continue on. What have you been doing these years? What have you learned?"

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Ruby returns to her dorm, and nearly all her teammates are there. Blake is absent, as what seems to be the norm nowadays. Ruby's concerned about it, but since she's spending time with Dylan most of that time she's absent it's more reassuring. She'd rather her be with someone than on her own.

Yang is checking out her nails when Ruby walks in.

"Hey sis, done with (Y/N)?" She cheerfully asks in regular Yang fashion.

"Well, not really. He left me."

Yang and Weiss look at Ruby now, interested in the events that took place.

"What do you mean?" Yang asks for clarification.

Ruby hops onto her bed and relaxes in her bed. She wiggles to really get comfy, then turns her head towards her sister.

"His uncle is here, so he went with him."

"His uncle?" Yang repeats.

"You mean Harrier Slater?" Weiss adds.

Ruby responds with a single nod. Weiss taps her chin, thinking on that name. She's heard it before, somewhere. She's almost surprised your last name didn't spur her memory, but hearing "Harrier" has got her mind going.

"That's cool! What's he like? Any bit as awesome as uncle Qrow?" Yang excitedly asks.

"Well... I didn't really get to talk to him. He looked really cool, though Professor Ozpin and Professor Goodwitch didn't seem to like him too much. I'm not sure why."

Yang shrugs, lying back on her bed.

"Who knows? Maybe he's stronger than them?"

"I don't even know how strong Professor Ozpin is. He must be awesome," Ruby predicts, her mind racing with possibilities of Ozpin's prowess.

She then remembers what you asked her.

"Oh! Right," she squeals before hopping off her bed and landing right in front of Weiss, making the Heiress jump back in her bed. Ruby drops to floor and scans underneath Weiss' bed.

"What're you doing?" Weiss questions.

"I..." Ruby reaches under the bed, feeling around while her tongue is poking out of her mouth. "Have my board game... somewhe- aha!" She slips away from the bed and hops to her feet.

She holds the board game prominently in her hands.

"You brought that along with you?" Yang asks, a brow raised.

Ruby turns to her sister then shakes her head.

"No, I bought a new one. This one has the Grimm expansion! I had to get it!"

"Whoa, no way!" Yang cheers, hopping down from her bed to examine the box.

Weiss shakes her head at her teammates actions. She regally gets out of her bed and sits down at her nearby desk in an attempt to get some work done. But something's still bothering her. She keeps repeating the name over and over in her head.

"Harrier Slater," she whispers.

Weiss pulls her scroll out of her pocket and stares at your contact information. There's a picture of you standing with her and Yang, arms around both of them. Yang is smiling with you, as enthusiastic about the ordeal as you are. Weiss is a little more reluctant about it, but she still has a smile as your arm wraps around her. Weiss smirks at the picture and the memory of when this took place. You definitely have had an effect on the people around here. You've had an effect on her. Yet now she has an odd feeling about the arrival of this new guy, and she's worried about what might happen.

Weiss sends you a quick message just to be sure while the sisters talk about the board game.

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It's been an interesting conversation with Harrier so far. You've been in Vale for about two hours now, stopping for tea at Harrier's request. You notice that Harrier rarely shows his actual body. His cloak is always on, always covering his body. He makes slight movements when he pays, and he doesn't even pull down the front when drinking. His mouth remains a mystery to you still.

However, while walking and talking, you've explained your entire situation to him. Where you've gone, what you've learned, even about your most recent battles after going to Beacon. Harrier was most interested, and most entertained, by the story of the ancient Grimm you were chased by for a few days. It was... difficult to talk about, but you managed to get through it with little to no problems. You're gradually getting better on that subject, which is a relief. But Harrier was also interested in all of those you trained with, and all the techniques you've learned. He seemed pleased when you told him of your skills and abilities.

He especially was interested when you told him you've come close to mastering Crimson Blaze. It was his brother's weapon, his last memento. Of course Harrier questioned the potency of the ability without a regenerative semblance, which brought you onto the subject of your semblance. Harrier was genuinely surprised when you said you haven't discovered it yet.

But now you're on your way back to Beacon. He has business to take care of, and you need to return to Beacon at some point. Thus, you're both walking alongside others on their way back to Beacon.

"So you're staying in Vale, right?" You ask, still pretty cheery but far less than you were hours ago.

"I will be for some time, yes. I'm interested in the Vytal Festival coming up in a few months as well."

"Oh, yeah, I've heard of that. I can't wait to see what the other kingdoms have in store for me."

Harrier smirks, but it's covered by his hood.

"I predict a lot is going to happen between now and then. You best be on your guard."

You smirk, ever the confident one.

"I always am... most of the time," you chuckle.

Harrier snickers.

"You are your father's son. Come on now, let's get to Beacon. I wish to talk with Ozpin and Glynda. Catch up a bit. I assume you can speak with the silver eyed girl."

"Hm? Ruby?" You clarify.

"The red hooded one. I believe. Ruby Rose, no? Daughter of Summer Rose?"

You shrug.

"I guess. I haven't really asked about her mom. Never came up."

Harrier remains silent, squinting his eyes as he remembers Summer. Hell, he remembers all of team STRQ when... well, a long time ago. It was interesting to see her daughter, and to see she's also inherited the silver eyes. Very interesting. It's something Harrier needs to keep in mind.

"Well, I assume she knows about your parents, no?"

You fall in on yourself.

"Y-Yeah... Remember, I told you all about what happened after?"

"I do. You professed what happened to Ozpin and Glynda while she was in the room, but that's far less personal and meaningful than telling her alone."

You scratch the back of your head, a little nervous. You bite your lip.

"Yeah... but why does that matter?"

Harrier shrugs.

"Just something to keep in mind. You have to prove that people mean something to you. You can't just assume it. Yet that doesn't always mean doing what's best for them," Harrier preaches.

"What do you mean?"

Harrier chuckles.

"One day, young Slater. For now get some rest, learn, and get ready for the day we can fight."

You shrug and keep walking. You're moving your hands behind your head, but someone passes by, placing something in your hand as he chants.

"-is the prize! Just win the annual vocal competition! Any talent out there, we-"

You continue to walk and eventually stop hearing what he's saying over the hustle and bustle of everyone else. You look at the pamphlet briefly before accepting this turn of events and shoving it in your pocket.

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After the short, yet cramped, ride you, Harrier, and a plethora of other students return to Beacon. You can tell by the look on others faces that they're going to miss the time off. This was theirs, and your, last day before classes start. That little fact hangs over you still. You're actually going to have to DO something other than train. Yes, you've been taught things throughout the years, but never in an official school environment, and never with Ms. Goodwitch. You shiver at the thought.

Before you can even converse with your uncle anymore, he speaks.

"It's been a... pleasure to see you again, (Y/N). I bid you farewell until our next meeting."

"Wai- bu-" You sigh in defeat. "Alright. Maybe I'll see you tomorrow?"

Harrier subtly shrugs.

"It's possible, but I won't promise anything. Get a good night's rest and prepare yourself for tomorrow."

You nod, flashing him a smile. Harrier bows his head slightly, and then you two part ways. You head back to your dorm. Harrier sets course for Ozpin's tower. He walks at a moderate pace that's comfortable for him. In truth, it's terribly slow, but he can't be running around everywhere, even if he wanted too. Plus his cloak might not constantly cover everything if he's moving too much.

Not that there's much to see of Harrier. His eyes are covered, along with everything just below his nose. His well-kept facial hair that covers his lower cheeks and jaw, though doesn't consist of a moustache, also remains hidden. He would trim it and return to how he looked when he was younger, but a certain event changed his mind some time ago. He prefers to keep the beard in honour of his brother.

Many of the students around Beacon eye Harrier, which doesn't move him at all. The most interesting one, however, is when Harrier notices a rather famous student staring at him. Pyrrha Nikos, a woman who many consider a prodigy, eyes Harrier. She squints at him as she thinks, which leads Harrier to believe she's familiar with him, somehow. Pyrrha seems to realize something, then makes a b-line towards Harrier. Harrier rolls his eyes, but won't pass on this opportunity to speak to her.

"Excuse me, hello," she pleasantly greets, stepping diagonally of Harrier so he'll slow down. "My name is Pyrrha Nikos, are... are you Harrier Slater?"

Harrier stops and turns his body towards Pyrrha.

"You're quite observant to deduce my identity with these on," he responds, confirming Pyrrha's question.

"Wow, amazing! THE Harrier Slater is here. Did you know that yo-"

"Yes, I am aware my nephew is here. I was just speaking to him. My apologies, but is there something specific you need? I'm going somewhere."

"Oh, I'm sorry. I just wanted to meet you. (Y/N) and I look at your statue every so often. I apologize for your loss," she whole-heartedly says.

"My... loss?" Harrier repeats, trying to figure out what the young woman is talking about. "Oh, Jet? Well, thank you."

"There is one question I would like to ask, if I may," Pyrrha continues.

Harrier rolls his eyes.

"Very well. One question, then I must go."

Pyrrha nods, takes in a deep breath, then speaks.

"What exactly happened when Jet disappeared? You were with him, no?"

Harrier's eyes widen at the question, then he begins laughing. Pyrrha is confused at the man's actions, but doesn't say anything.

"What happened that day doesn't matter. He survived, he lived on, and then he died. That's just a chapter in his life."

"He was missing for five years. Something must have happened," Pyrrha presses.

"What's your angle here, Pyrrha? Why do you care?" Harrier counters.

"As an aspiring Huntsman, I want to know everything I can. Besides that, this is important to (Y/N). He knows little about his father, and knowing the various things he's done could inspire him, just as many other Huntsmen have inspired me."

Harrier begins to walk away, but leaves Pyrrha with something.

"If I wanted to tell (Y/N) what happened to his father, then I would. The real question is why Ozpin, Glynda, and so many others have hidden it from him."

Harrier leaves hearing distance of Pyrrha, leaving the young Spartan thinking.

Harrier finally makes it to Ozpin's tower and enters the building, passing by anyone who's around. He enters the elevator and selects Ozpin's floor, then calmly waits for the machine to bring him there.

What exactly happened when Jet disappeared? You were with him, no?

Harrier chuckles at the thought.

"I was with my little brother for everything."

The elevator dings and the door opens. Ozpin looks past his monitor and sees Harrier approaching him. He stands up, grabs his cane, and makes his way around his desk.

"Harrier... what are you doing here?" Ozpin asks, cutting to the chase.

"I would first like to ask why Glynda was following us the whole time. In fact, she should be-" The elevator dings and Glynda enters the room. "As I predicted." Harrier steps to the side so he can see both Ozpin and Glynda. "Are you both that paranoid?"

Glynda steps beside Ozpin.

"I wonder why," she sarcastically remarks.

"You can't blame us, Harrier. You're not the most popular huntsman."

"I've noticed," Harrier snickers. "Though it's pleasant to see I'm not attacked on sight here like I was in Atlas."

"Well," Ozpin starts, drifting his gaze away for a moment before returning it to Harrier. "I'm aware of what you've obtained through your travels, so battling you would be unwise at the moment. Besides, you're not currently hostile, so there's nothing to be gained with unnecessary battle."

Harrier smirks under his cloak.

"I see you're as tactical as ever. So, have you told (Y/N)?"

Glynda grinds her teeth.

"Why would we?" She growls.

Harrier turns his head to Glynda, content with how much he's getting under her skin.

"Just curious. Of course I know you haven't, considering how he acts. Though I would tell him soon, if I were you. He doesn't seem to be the type that likes to be lied to."

"We will handle that situation," Ozpin interjects. Both Harrier and Glynda look to Ozpin, share one quick glance, and then return their attention to Ozpin. "Now then, you're welcome to stay in Vale, and even Beacon, as long as you wish to. But make no mistake. Harm any of my students, especially (Y/N), and I will personally punish you," Ozpin threatens, his entire persona become deadly serious, something Glynda hasn't seen in years.

Harrier bows his head.

"Of course. It was a pleasure speaking to you both again. I look forward to tomorrow."

Harrier turns around and heads towards the elevator. Once he enters and leaves, Glynda slams her fist against the nearby wall.

"Damnit! I can't believe we're allowing him to roam free here," she snarls.

"And what do you propose we do?" Ozpin calmly asks, returning to his desk. "We'll have him monitored at all times, and I didn't feel any ill intent coming from him. He's here for something, likely relating to (Y/N), but we can't be sure what. Possibly repentance for Jet's death." Glynda sneers. "Either way," Ozpin continues. "We must have (Y/N) monitored at all times. And possibly," Ozpin scrolls through his computer and finds a picture of Ruby. "Perhaps keeping an eye on Ruby would be a good idea as well."

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You reach your room, finally, after a long day. Sure you've been chatting with Harrier, your long lost uncle, but that doesn't dismiss the fact that you participated in a food fight AND haven't really eaten much today. You and Harrier did stop by a store for some tea and small foods, but that doesn't fill a growing Huntsman-in-Training like you at all. You need more food... like that steak Yang ate, or that apple Yang threw away, or that plate of food Ruby crushed...

Are they trying to kill me via starvation?

You shake your head at the crazy thought and flash your scroll to enter your room. You turn the handle so the door can be opened, then allow your entire body to lie on the door, pushing it open and resulting in you slamming on the floor. Dylan lowers his book slightly to see your state, then lifts it back up.

"Nice of you to drop in," he calmly greets.

"You know, I'm somewhat glad, yet somewhat scared you got a sense of humour," you chuckle, looking up at him while half your face is smooshed against the carpet.

Dylan smirks, but doesn't divert his attention from his book. In reality, the book is just a front. He and Blake have been working on plans for finding Torchwick and Aza, and trying to take down the White Fang. So far Dylan's managed to pinpoint a location on where a meeting place will be, but that's it. At the moment he's looking through other notes he has, trying to find any clue or connection.

"You're just a dull Dylan," you mutter into the carpet.

"And you're a sad Slater," he retorts.

"Oh, ha! You're such a clever guy!" You shout in a muffled voice. "I wish I could be half as FUNNY AS YOU!"

Dylan puts his book down as he sighs.

"You're a man-child. Get up, stop wallowing in your own filth, and start acting like the Huntsman you're supposed to be."

You shuffle your head over and pout at Dylan, who's staring you down with no sympathy.

"You're heartless."

"You're brainless."

"Bleh, let me live my life," you complain, pushing yourself onto your feet. You start stretching your neck. "At least I got to have some fun before you ruined it."

Dylan rolls his eyes and grabs his book once more.

"What were you doing?"

You brush yourself off, and, while you do this, you accidentally brush something out of your jacket pocket. You feel the oddity against your skin which draws your attention to it.

"Oh, you know... stuff," you vaguely answer, clearly not totally paying attention to the conversation.

You kneel down and grab the pamphlet. You raise your brow for a moment, not remembering where you got this. The memory quickly bursts to the surface of when the random man handed you this on your way back. You open it up and read it as you saunter towards your bed. Dylan concurs that you're not going to be rambling anymore, so he returns his full attention to his duties.

You flop on your bed as you read what this has to offer. The front has a picture of someone standing in a spotlight with a microphone, so it's obviously something to do with a performance of some kind. You open it up and scour through the details. Instantly something on the second page catches your attention.

"Fly anywhere you want," you read the headline.

You analyze it for more information. Seems that the winner of whatever this is gets a flight to wherever... they... Your eyes widen in realization. You toss the pamphlet beside you and reach for your scroll. Right away it shows a message from Harrier, and you open that. It's a simple message with two parts to it: a picture, and coordinates. This is where your home was. You can finally visit it after so many years. It would be... comforting to see the place again, even if it's filled with bad memories. Perhaps facing those memories will help your hallucinations. You've already made a point to cut down on image training, so this would be another step in the right direction.

But you're getting ahead of yourself. You have no idea what you have to do to win this prize. You return your attention to the first page and begin reading the details. First it's just a general introduction, talking about large crowds, the location which just happens to be where Weiss once took you during your day together, and a crisp voice.

"Crisp voice?" You repeat in confusion.

You read it further, then, once realizing what's required, spin over into your stomach and sigh into your bed. Dylan looks over at you, debating whether or not to include himself in whatever upsets you. He sighs.

"What's wrong?"

You roll onto your back and stare at the ceiling. You swiftly return the pamphlet to your pocket.

"Ah... nothing. I just... I gotta think of something quick. I don't have much time. In fact, I only have an hour," you complain, contorting your lips as you think. "Hey Dylan," you begin, looking over at him. "Do you think you could critique my singing?"

"Your... singing? Why do you need to sing?" He inquires, admittedly interested in what you're planning.

You lift yourself into a sitting position atop your bed.

"Well, I just got the coordinates of my... of a place that's important to me, but I don't think Ozpin will let me take a school Bullhead. Sooooo if I win this singing contest I get a free flight to wherever I want in Vale! There and back!"

Dylan chuckles as he sets his book down.

"Alright Slater, dazzle me with your singing."

You instantly regret asking, but you're not one to back out of a challenge so early. You pop to your feet then slip your scroll out of your pocket.

"Unfortunately I only have some songs Little Red put on my scroll," you excuse as you set it up.

"Why did you let her do that?" Dylan asks, a coy smirk on his face.

"Oh, uh..." You scratch the back of your head. "I don't remember. She just asked for my opinion on her songs, so I said yes. I know one off the top of my head, so I'll... I'll sing a bit of it for you," you begrudgingly say.

Dylan readies himself for the potential amazement or potential amusement he's about to experience. You set up the song and get ready.

I guess I've done worse things in my life... jeez, here goes nothing.

You play the music and get it going, despite Dylan's aggravating smile. You take a breath before beginning your performance. The guitar starts up which makes you chuckle. Ruby's music taste definitely conflicts with her personality.

"This will be the day we've waited for

This will be the day we open up the door

I don't wanna hear your abso-"

Dylan bursts out laughing, which completely ruins your flow. The music plays on until you turn it off.

"What?" You exclaim, pouting a bit.

"Nothing, nothing," he chuckles, waving his hand. "Look, I'll give it to you straight. Your voice... meh, it's alright. My ears aren't bleeding, so you're not making anyone cringe. But if you're trying to win a contest... you don't have a chance."

You let your shoulders fall in disappointment, then throw your hands in the air.

"Well great, what am I supposed to-"

KNOCK

KNOCK

KNOCK

You and Dylan look over at the door, then look at each other. Dylan shrugs and lays back down on his bed. You roll your eyes and approach the door. You open it up to see Yang with her hand over her mouth, attempting to stop herself from laughing. You raise your brow, then look over her shoulder. A few students are poking their head out, staring at your room, all also laughing.

"Quite a voice you got there, hot stuff," Yang giggles.

You squint your eyes at Yang, to which she simply laughs at.

"You can serenade me some other time. Or perhaps, someone else? Are you practicing?" She teases.

"Serena- Can you people go back to your own rooms!" You shout, making all the other students scurry back to their rooms. "Sheesh, anyway, why would I serenade someone?" You ask.

"Well, I'm sure you know that's one of Ruby's favourite songs," Yang brings up.

Yang has... mixed emotions on this topic. It very much seems like you two are interested in each other, but she can't tell at the moment. She has yet to approach Ruby about it, and she's beaten around the bush with you. She's somewhat pleased, but at the same time she's furious. That's her little sister, a sister that's two years younger than you. Her protective instincts kick in instantly, even if she does trust you. You have taken care of Yang when she was vulnerable, you've saved Ruby's life, and they've even seen you at your worst. Those are things that can spark emotions within people, but that's not enough for Yang. It's almost preparing you, in a way. If you can survive Yang, then you might have a chance when their father finds out. Of course that's all speculation that relies on whether or not you two like each other.

"Well, I didn't know that was her favourite, but she did give me a couple songs to listen to. As for serenading... well... you think I'm stealing any hearts with that voice?"

"Nope," Dylan anwers.

"Hey, shut up!" You shout, looking back at him.

Yang giggles at your bickering.

"Well, I suppose I'd best be going. I just had to drop by when I heard your singing."

"You... ah," you scratch your neck. "You could hear that from your dorm?"

"What? Oh, no, no, no. I was leaving anyway, and I heard you down the hallway. But hey," Yang starts as she spins around to walk away. "If you're serious about singing, you should give Weiss a visit."

"Give Weiss a... of course!" You shout. "Dylan, I'll see you later! I have a Weiss to visit."

"Did... you just use Weiss as a-"

You slam the door behind you, cutting off Dylan.

"Does he even have an attention span? Because I don't see one," Dylan mumbles to himself.

Dylan grabs his scroll and types out a text.

XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

You run through the halls towards team RWBY's room. You dart past a couple students before reach the room. You're about to knock, but the door opens before your fist to connect.

"Oh, (Y/N)," Blake greets. "I was just leaving. Do you need something?"

"Weiss! Is she here?" You ask.

Blake nods, then points her thumb over her shoulder.

"Yeah, in there. Excuse me, though, I have somewhere to be."

Blake slips by you, then you dart into her room. Weiss is sitting at a desk writing up some notes. To what? You have no idea, and frankly you don't really care at the moment. You slide beside her, place your hands on her shoulder, and move your face right beside hers.

"Weiss!"

"GAH! (Y/N), YOU IDIOT!" She screams out of fear.

She doesn't move, since you're keeping her in place. You don't seemed fazed by her scream, however.

"Weiss, I need a favour!"

"You broke into my room," Weiss argues, getting out of her seat and staring up at you.

"For a good reason! I need your help, please! You're the only one that can help me."

Weiss sighs, letting her body droop and her eyes close. She opens one eye and looks at you.

"What do you need?"

"I need you to sing in a contest!"

"I... that's what... why?"

You grab the pamphlet and hand it to her.

"There's a competition, and the winner gets to bring one friend anywhere they like in Vale!"

Weiss keeps her eyes on the pamphlet as she reads.

"And why would you care about something like this?" She inquires.

"I..." You exhale, knowing you'll have to tell her if you're going to get her help. "I want to visit my home." Weiss lifts her eyes from the pamphlet to you as you speak. "I want to go back to where my parents were killed. This means a lot to me, Weiss. Please, nobody else can help me," you ask with sincerity.

"So all I have to do is sing one song, and that's it?"

You nod.

"As it says there, yeah. Everyone will be judged, and whoever wins gets the flight."

"And it's tomorrow? Have you already signed up for it online before even asking me?"

You shake your head.

"No, of course not. Honestly, my first thought was to try and sing myself, bu-"

Weiss giggles, covering her mouth as she does so.

"Oh come on, why does everyone laugh at that?" You whine.

"I just can't imagine you singing... or it being good enough for a contest."

"That's what Dylan said," you huff, crossing your arms. "So... will you do it? I'll owe you one."

Weiss leaves you to pace around her room. She goes over a few more of the details in the pamphlet as she walks, which gives you a true sense of the unknown.

"It's in two days? So we have two days to practice," Weiss states.

"Well, you have two days to practice. I could make sure that my thumbs up game is quite powerful," you add.

"What would that do?" Weiss questions.

"Give you even better morale support?" You say, though it's evident by your tone that you're doubting yourself.

Weiss menacingly stares at you.

"No. Just let me handle this, and YOU can repay the favour later."

A sudden surge of happiness overtakes you at Weiss' words. You start laughing, then rush in to give her a hug.

"Ha! Thank you Weiss! Thank you!" You shout, hugging her tightly.

"Y-Yeah," she mumbles as she starts to blush. "Just let go of me already."

You let her go but still have a goofy smile on your face that Weiss can't help but find comfort in.

"So... I, uh, I'll let you get to it," you say as you saunter towards the door. "Seriously Weiss, I appreciate this. I'll pay you back somehow."

"Of course. Have a good night, (Y/N)," Weiss smiles.

You nod at her, then close the door. Weiss exhales, releasing all sorts of emotions.

"I... can see why you like him, Ruby..." She whispers to herself. "It's the same reason... I..." Weiss shakes her head, ridding herself of all thoughts. "Well, I suppose I need to find a song to sing now. He's far luckier than he should be to have us."

And that's a wrap on my end. So, we have a few more chapters before a big reveal comes out! Well, not so much of a big one, but it's something that I bet every single one of you has pondered, and I hope you'll enjoy what that will be. It's been a fun time planning all this up to Volume 3.5, especially with my platinum level Beta. Seriously, writing this story is a lot of fun. Sometimes I pull up one of the Volumes to double check something, and I end up watching it for an hour, imagining what Slater would be doing in that situation. Plus, and something I like, you all seem to really like Slater. It's good when I make a reader that people like. Heck, sometimes I make myself chuckle when I re-read, or am writing his lines and actions.

Also, I urge everyone to check out my Twitter. There are a couple people tweeting me amazing fanart of my stories, especially Crimson Shadow. It's worth checking out, trust me. It's amazing to see fanart of one of my stories. That's something I never imagined would happen to me when I first started writing two years ago. In fact, three days ago, on August 25, was my second anniversary of when I started writing. That is amazing to think I've been writing for so long and have brought so much entertainment to so many people. This has become more than I ever thought it could be and I have all of you to thank for it. Well, that little fact was actually going to be my fact of this chapter... so...

FACT: I started writing fanfiction on August 25, 2014, which was three days prior to me posting this chapter.

Want to keep up with me? Know what chapter's coming out next and the progress of them? Follow me on Twitter! Twitter . com (slash) Chinsangan

Want to support me in creating more content? Get your own one-shot written? Decide which stories I focus on? Consider checking out my Patreon page! Pat reon . com (slash) Chinsangan

Questions? Comments? Concerns? Advice? Send me a message! See ya!

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