Chapter 31: A Final Goodbye

"Gah!" Your eyes shoot open, then instantly close at the sight of a bright light. "AH! YOU!" You smack the light to the side, allowing you to gather your thoughts.

You lift your upper body off the bed then drag your hand down your face. You stop your hand over your mouth whilst eying the possessed light of destruction.

"I hate you," you whisper to your most dangerous foe – the hospital light. "But it seems I'm back here... AGAIN!" You scream, falling back on the bed. "It's like there's a target on my back or something... maybe its all the nurses' fault... maybe she wants me here!" You throw your hands towards the ceiling, letting it hang in view for a moment before letting it fall back to your side. "Nah, nurses wouldn't do that. Maybe... Hm... should investigate..."

"Or perhaps you should refrain from getting yourself into these situations," Ozpin comments, closing the door behind him. "Then you could spend more time in class than in this room."

"Oh haha," you mock. "It's not my fault. I was just following orders from Oobleck and Port."

"Of course, I won't blame you for that. In fact, it's lucky you discovered Merlot's base. If he had unleashed those monstrosities on the cities... it would have attracted more Grimm. We owe you much, (Y/N)."

You chuckle, laying back down on the bed.

"It's fine. Anyone would have done it, right? I should be thanking you... all of you. You saved my butt... actually, what happened? We killed it, I think."

Ozpin stands at the end of your bed, cementing his cane on the floor.

"You did. Unfortunately, Merlot managed to escape. But since you managed to uncover two of his bases I'm certain you put a significant dent in whatever his plans were."

You shrug.

"Maybe... but, Ozpin... there's more of those things. I saw them on one of his screens. There were five of them, the Hydra included."

"So there are four more Mutated Grimm like that? Hm... that's troubling news," Ozpin raises his hand to his chin. "I'll have to relay this information to the other schools. Did you learn anything else?"

"Yeah," you nod your head. "He was working with... with Harrier in exchange for blood. I think he might have given Harrier a device that controls Grimm."

"Hm... If Harrier's working with her... why would he need that?" Ozpin whispers to himself. "Anything else?"

"No, well, other than the fact he... wait, my dad!" You shout, throwing the covers off and hopping off the bed. "Where's my dad?"

"We've preserved his body for your return. It didn't feel right to bury him without you," Ozpin elaborates, adjusting his sleeves.

"But where is he?"

"Mm... yes, this way. I'll have Glynda meet with us there," he declares as he grabs his scroll. "Oh, and we found some new clothes for you. I'm sure you'll find a new style, soon enough. If you wish you could take some lien and go shopping."

You open the drawer to find jeans, a long sleeve white shirt, your belt, and your glove. You quickly grab them from the drawer and start dressing.

"I'll worry about that later. It's just a jacket. It's nothing compared to my father."

"How mature. Very well, let's go."

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Glynda receives a message on her scroll from the Headmaster, requesting her to meet him at Jet's resting place. The message is redundant as Glynda is already there. Jet's body is laid in a glass case below Ozpin's tower. Though not the same floor as another vital person, but this one is just as, if not more, important than her. They provided a new attire as opposed to the simply undergarments Merlot used. He's now in a brand new white suit, arms crossed, completely motionless.

"I... didn't think I'd have to see this again," she says to herself as she places her hand on the glass. "I still think of you... I do... Your son is so much like you, I... sometimes it's hard. I thought I buried you in my memory but it seems I'm meant to remember you. Your weapon is still safe with him, you know? He even carries the gift you and Clementine gave. Hm..." Her eyes trail off. "I still remember when I met Clementine... I knew of her, somewhat, but you..."

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It's unordinary for Ozpin to send Glynda on a mission, especially one that involves securing a village. Grimm attacks are a common problem that other Huntsmen handle. She's a professor, not a field agent. But refusing this order would be foolish, and Glynda's already finished her paperwork anyway.

The smoke can be seen from miles away, which helps in leading one to the village in peril... or warn those who wish to avoid the Grimm. Glynda only hopes there aren't too many causalities by the time she arrives. Generally, villages left for this long... well, not much is left.

"We're coming up on the village. Be ready for the drop," the pilot informs.

The door opens for Glynda, wind blowing at her hair and clothes. She remains stationary, waiting for the moment to jump. On instinct, she dives out with flawless movement. In seconds she lands just outside the village, immediately reaching for her riding crop whilst scanning the area for Grimm. Oddly enough, there are none in this area. She keeps her wits about her as she jogs towards the innards of the village. It's not a large village by any means. At most, there are ten buildings with scattered, flat rocks to act as paths. Glynda proceeds to the middle of the village where she hears the howling of a Beowolf. She quickly rushes past a building towards the sound, but, to her surprise, the Beowolves are fleeing the scene.

"Yeah, that's right! You better..." A woman shouts, cutting herself off as she catches a breath. "This is too much action for me right now."

Glynda observes the woman who she assumes fought off the Beowolves. She has flowing orange hair passes her forehead and dances down her back. She's extremely pale, though whether that's due to fatigue or natural complexion is unknown to Glynda. The most notable thing is her large belly, indicating she's pregnant. The woman stumbles a bit, placing a hand on her stomach.

"I'm sorry, little guy. I don't know how much that affects you," she says to her unborn child.

Glynda quickly approaches the woman to offer aid.

"Ma'am, are you okay? Let me help," she says, offering the woman a hand.

"Oh, a Huntress? I'm sorry, I drove the Grimm off already."

"Indeed," Glynda states as she walks the woman to the nearest bench. "Are you a Huntress?"

"Oh, goodness, no," she shakes her head. "My husband is, though. Where are my manners, I'm Clementine Tawny."

Glynda's eyes go wide for just a moment.

"Clementine... you-"

"You know Ozpin, I guess?" She says cocks her head to the side, inquisitively. "You'd have to if I gave you that reaction," she ends with a smile.

"Indeed. Knowing who you are answers my question. "

"Quite tiring with this little guy, I have to admit," she says, rubbing her bump. "But with Huntsmen around, I suppose I can relax."

"Yes, of course," Glynda takes a seat beside Clementine. "Please forgive my surprise. I never thought I would meet you. I was lead to believe you were protected."

"Yes, by my husband. Though he tends to go off on his adventures. He enjoys them, after all."

"You said he was a Huntsmen?"

Clementine nods.

"Yes, an amazing one," she giggles at a thought. "I remember thinking he was so strange. 'I died,'" she mimics his tone. "Such an odd man."

"He... died?" Glynda inquires, clearly confused.

"Oh, yes. Perhaps you heard of him. He was one of the Huntsmen who defeated that Dragon Grimm many years ago."

Glynda's heart skips a beat. There are only two people that could be, and if they said they died...

"Is your husband Harrier Slater?" She asks, not sure whether she'd prefer the answer to be yes or no.

Clementine shakes her head.

"No, but I've met him. Strange fellow, I have to say. Very... stoic. No, my husband's Jet Slater. Do you know him?"

She would have preferred "yes."

Her heart sinks, a knot forms in her stomach. A part of her wants to say that Clementine's lying, but she has no reason to deceive Glynda. But, then, why would Jet Slater be alive? There's no way he could live without Glynda knowing. He would have come back to her without question.

"Are you okay?" Clementine speaks. "You look... pale."

Glynda can't even move in response to Clementine.

"I... I..."

Suddenly an unmarked Bullhead flies over the village, dropping off a human-sized package. His white coat whips through the air as Jet Slater falls to the grass below. In moments he slams against the ground and bolts towards the village.

"Clementine? Clementine!" He shouts, getting the attention of both Glynda and Clementine.

"His voice..." the blonde whispers.

"Well, late as ever," Clementine chuckles, standing up and walking towards the center of town.

The married Slaters' eyes meet as Clementine passes the corner of a house. Jet sprints towards her, concern riddled on his face.

"Clementine! You're okay!" He happily declares, wrapping his arms around her immediately. "I was worried that you might be hurt."

"Please, I'm not useless with a baby, you know? But... it was tiring," she sheepishly admits. "Oh! A Huntress came by. I think she knows you."

"A Huntress?" Jet raises his brow. "Maybe from my schooling days?" He guesses as the two walk back to the bench. "Or perhaps it's Via-"

Jet's train of thought derails when his eyes land on Glynda. She's standing now, staring Jet dead in the eyes. The tension formed by this connection could rip apart the moon three times over, and Clementine feels it.

"I'm... going to check on the others," she uses as an excuse to leave. "Come see me after, Jet."

"Mm..." Is his only response.

Jet slowly approaches Glynda, who's as still as a statue.

"I... well, hehe... this isn't how I thought we'd meet again."

"You... I mourned you... I cried for you... I thought you died – that I failed you... I loved you, Jet..." Her fists tighten as much as they can while tears fall from her eyes. "And you lied to me... you couldn't even... and her, I..." Glynda's thoughts are as sporadic as a paper boat being swept away by a raging river. "I'm not mad... that you found someone, Jet... You... how could you not see me again? How could you not come back to me?"

Jet's at a loss for words. His reasoning was selfish – idiotic. He's well aware she would have been happier to see him than believing he's dead for all this time.

"I... I don't know... Maybe I-"

"You are going to meet me in Vale tomorrow," she quickly orders. "We're going to sit down in public, have some coffee... and talk. It'll give us time to... wrap our head around this situation. No need for wild emotions."

Jet's fully aware she's speaking more on herself than he, but he doesn't dare say anything. Jet responds with a simple nod.

"Good," she breathes. "I believe the area is secure. I will see you tomorrow at noon."

"Right..."

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"And you... you talked me down, like always," she whispers to herself, her tears staining the glass case. "I don't even know how I let you get away with everything... you had that charm to you..." She chuckles to herself. "I think you passed it down to your son... maybe your ridiculous adventures, too," she ends with another laugh.

After another minute of silence and inner thoughts, the elevator door opens for you and Ozpin. You immediately spot Glynda and the glass casket. In your haste, you step beside the casket, eyes drawn to your deceased father. Glynda steps out of the way for you while Ozpin calmly approaches.

"Heh... white," you say. "I remember he wore white... a coat... I... I can see him more clearly, now..." Your mind wanders back to the nightmare that was your father's death. The Beowolf attacking you, the crying the shouting, the look of your father as he commanded you to run. "I know I had that picture, but..." A few more droplets fall on the casket, merging with Glynda's. "Heh... that's my dad," you say with a quivering smile. "That's my dad... and he's dead."

Ozpin and Glynda remain as silent as a mouse as you speak. To see a loved one after so many years is hard for anyone, especially when they've moved on.

"Hey, Ozpin... how is it my dad died by a Beowolf?" You inquire, keeping your eyes on his corpse. "If he had even half of Harrier's healing... it's so weird to think."

Glynda and Ozpin both share a concerned look.

"Well... even your father could be overwhelmed, as any Huntsmen could."

"Mm... I guess it was my fault, then."

"No, of course not!" Glynda cuts in. "Your parents would've happily given their lives for you. Don't think negatively about it."

"Glynda's correct. Both your parents spoke highly of you in terms of character and combat, despite your age. I'm sure they'd be more than proud to see how you've grown."

"Mm... I would've rathered them be here instead... Can I... have a minute, maybe?"

"Of course. When you're ready please let us know and we'll make the journey to his grave," Ozpin says before turning around and marching towards the door.

Glynda stares at you with saddened eyes. It's unlike you to act in this manner, but given the circumstances, she's not surprised. She could only imagine how you'd react if you kn-

"Glynda," Ozpin cuts in. "Are you coming?"

"Of course, Professor," Glynda nods.

Your eyes focus on your father's figure until the elevator door shuts. You look back towards it, seeing only the architecture of the room. After a moment, your eyes return to your father's corpse.

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"He's been sleeping the entire time, to my knowledge," the nurse speaks as she leads Ruby through the medical wing. "I swear, he's caused me nothing but grief since he arrived. Constantly coming and going without signing or..." she rubs her temples. "Ah, sorry, I'm sure you don't want to hear about it."

"No, no, it's okay," Ruby supportively speaks. "I'm sorry he's caused you trouble. I'll try to keep him out of here from now on."

"Heh, you're his guardian?"

"G... Girlfriend," Ruby sheepishly reveals.

"Oh, I see... must be fun for you," the nurse says before opening the door.

The two women look at the empty bed and the messy sheets. The nurse throws her hands in the air and walks away.

"I don't care. I don't even care. I'm DONE WITH HIM!" She screams through the hallways.

Ruby giggles slightly, despite feeling bad for the poor woman.

"I can relate, Ms," she whispers. "Well, looks like I'm on a Slater hunt... again..." Ruby sighs, but her spirit is still strong. "It is kinda fun though."

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Dylan taps on the desk in annoyance as he's surrounded by other students.

"I didn't know you could do that!"

"How much water can you control?"

"Could you make it rain over Vale?"

"Make me wet!"

"What?"

"Nothing."

After the battle with the Hydra, many students began fawning over the Faunus for his abilities. Dylan didn't even really fight during that encounter. He kept people on platforms and occasionally reached out to protect someone, but having a Semblance of that magnitude caused him to be the talk of the town. Dylan did not like being the talk of the town.

"Should one of us save him," Yang asks before chowing down on some cafeteria food.

The others – Blake, Weiss, Jaune, Pyrrha, and Nora – all watch the fiasco unfold.

"Probably. It looks like he's going to wash them all away," Blake snickers. "So, who's going to..." Blake trails off as all her friends eyes turn to her. "Oh... I see... I have to save him."

"You are the closest to him," Weiss points out.

Blake rolls her eyes whilst she pushes off the table.

"Fine."

"Yes, I can fight as well. Slater simply asked me to support."

"So can you beat (Y/N) in a fight?"

"I..." Dylan taps the desk as he thinks. "Maybe. But what does that matter? Why don't you bother Slater? I'm sure he's up and in over his head in some regard." He rolls his eyes.

"But he can't make me wet like you!"

"Okay, who's saying that?" Dylan shouts, scanning the dozens of students around him.

"Dylan!" Blake says over the crowd, faking annoyance. Everyone looks towards the infamous Faunus, arms crossed and foot tapping as her eyes glare at the young man. "Are you forgetting something?" She says with irritation.

"Um... yes?" Dylan responds, perplexed.

"Ugh, how could you! I thought we were going on our date today!"

The students surrounding Dylan immediately start to vacate the area to avoid Blake's potential wrath, but their sick curiosity keeps their attention on the two.

"Our... I..."

"I shouldn't even give you another chance, but we already paid for the tickets so let's go!" She demands, marching up to him and yanking on his arm.

"I- whoa! Hold on!"

Blake drags Dylan out of the cafeteria, waiting until the door closes behind them to release him.

"You did that to save me, didn't you?"

"They voted me," Blake crosses her arms. "And now we'll have to deal with rumours."

Dylan shrugs.

"That doesn't bother me. It seems like I owe you. Perhaps some tea?"

"Sure, why not? Are you sure you don't want to check on (Y/N), first?"

Dylan starts walking towards the docks with Blake following close behind.

"No. When he wakes I'll hear of it. Come on, it's my treat."

"Well, if that's the case..." Blake says with a coy smile, following her friend.

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"That would be unwise. Knowing (Y/N), he'll go chasing after him despite the clear gap in skill."

"We shouldn't keep lying, Ozpin," Glynda taps her arm. "Sooner or later it'll-"

"Hey, Professors!" Ruby cheerfully greets, waving at the two adults.

"Greetings, Ms. Rose," Ozpin answers with a calm demeanor. "What can I do for you?"

"Have you seen (Y/N)? He left his room and upset the nurse again," she says with a slight chuckle, embarrassed at her boyfriend's actions.

Ozpin closes his eyes and smiles.

"Indeed. He's seeing his father's corpse at the moment."

"Oh," is Ruby's only response, the weight of your activities hitting her. "Hm... is he okay?"

"I believe he'll be alright," Glynda responds, placing one hand over the other. "Perhaps you'll come with us, Ms. Rose? We're... burying his father and I think he'd appreciate you accompanying him."

Ruby immediately nods.

"Of course! I wouldn't miss it for anything!"

"Even classes?" Ozpin poses, coyly smiling.

"I... no?" Ruby confusedly answers. "How did you want me to answer that?"

"However you wished, Ms. Rose. It will take some time for us to prepare everything. I will find you when we're ready."

"Oh, okay... can... I go see (Y/N)?"

Glynda and Ozpin look to each other as if to relay a silent message.

"I believe it would be best to leave him for now," Glynda speaks. "He needs some time alone."

Ruby's face drops a bit, but she's not disappointed.

"I see... okay. I'll go... study... yeah, study," she mumbles before slipping away from the Professors.

Ozpin solemnly chuckles to himself.

"Such an interesting group of students. Now, I think I'll contact a few people regarding our... earlier conversation."

"As you wish, Professor."

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"Of course," Harrier nonchalantly answers, leaning forward on the purple stoned desk. The entire area has a dark, lifeless tone to it which fits its resident perfectly. The room, filled with windows, tall candles burning atop dark purple crystals that match the table. Standing near an altar is a woman with a deathly pale complexion that's complimented with deep red and purple veins that run along her arms and face. Her eyes red, while the rest, including the sclerae, are black. The last notable feature on her skin is a diamond-shaped marking in the center of her forehead. Her white hair is formed into a bun with six offshoots which all have an ornament suspended from it. Donning a long black robe with red designs, mimicking her eyes. Finally, she wears a ring with an insect décor on her right index finger.

"The White Fang have all the technology they need from Merlot, which was received and delivered by me."

"Did you get what I asked?" Her voice calmly relays.

Harrier reaches into his pocket and pulls out a small vial, then sets it on the table.

"Of course I did, yet you have yet to give me what I want, Salem."

Salem turns around, finally facing her glasses-wearing accomplice.

"In time, Harrier. Not all pieces have fallen into place, not every path has come to an end."

"Straightforward as ever," Harrier huffs. "Very well, Salem. I'll be off to-"

"No. You will remain here," she commands as she approaches his seat. "First, you must answer a question." She stops beside his chair, leaning over to grasp the vial Harrier delivered. "Why... is (Y/N) Slater not dead?"

"Tsk, ask your own agents."

"You are one of my agents."

"Wrong," he states, getting out of the chair and confronting the woman. "I am someone who was promised something in return for my services. I owe you no allegiance, nor do I care for your escapade. So why not ask your little discount Maiden why she hasn't completed her task?"

"You, Adam Taurus, and that other one were sent to kill (Y/N) all that time ago. You alone should have been enough."

Harrier shrugs.

"Well, I was asked to 'lure and assist' if I remember. I did just that. I lured him there and assisted in depleting his Aura. Why did Aza Brine not kill him? Why did Merlot not kill him? Why did you not send people after him while he wandered in one of your little mazes? It seems to be a failure on your part, Salem, not mine."

The two remain in such close proximity that they can feel the other's breath flowing across their skin. Their eyes, however, are not in direct confrontation thanks to the dark shades Harrier dons. The Slater can feel a pressure coming from Salem, but he's not worried. Death means nothing to a man like him.

"Hm... then perhaps, if this boy is too difficult to kill, we should try another approach?" Salem says with a proud tone, turning from Harrier and walking back to her alter.

"What's that supposed to mean?"

"You will see, in due time," she says whilst ogling the vial. "I requested this concoction for a reason, after all. You're to remain here until preparations are complete."

"No," he bluntly responds. "I have something to attend to today. Once I'm finished, I'll return and stay until... whatever it is you're planning is ready."

"Very well, Harrier. I expect you back before dawn."

"I'll be back when I'm back," he quickly counters.

He grabs his cloak off the chair and lets it fall over his head, resting on his shoulders and covering his entire body. With his attire set, he heads for the door to leave this hell of a place.

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The elevator door opens behind you, but no attention is given. It's all focused on your father. You're not thinking anything in particular, just staring at a corpse that once meant the world to you.

"(Y/N), are you ready to go?"

"Hm..?"

"I've prepared the burial... you've been here for three hours," Ozpin speaks.

"Hm..."

Suddenly you feel a hand intertwine with yours. The fact you didn't hear or even perceive someone approaching you shows your lack of focus at the moment.

"I'm coming with you," Ruby whispers.

"I figured," you plainly answer, followed by a sigh. "Alright... let's go. Come here, I'll bring us all to the docks."

You place your free hand on the casket and wait until you feel Ozpin and Glynda make contact with your body. Once you feel two hands rest on your back and shoulder you leap everyone to the docks, leaving a large patch of shadow in the room. You materialize from similar shadow right before a Bullhead that you assumed to be the one Ozpin arranged.

Ozpin's eyes gloss over the Bullhead.

"This isn't the one, (Y/N). We arranged more appropriate transportation."

Your eyes glide to the next dock where a separate, more casual airship is docked. It's larger than the Bullhead, but far smaller than the airship that brought you to Beacon. However, this one actually has some colour and designs on the hull.

"Oh, my bad. I didn't think..."

"It's quite alright, (Y/N). Glynda, can you bring the casket as we walk?"

"Of course, Professor."

Ruby tightens her grip on your hand for support. You give a little squeeze to acknowledge her. The four of you walk towards the new ship. Glynda is using her Semblance to carefully transport the casket. Some students spot your little group from a distance and are instantly curious or confused by the sight of a dead man. Others are relieved at the sight of you walking around. Last time the majority of students saw you, you were lying in the ashes of a dead Hydra. Now that you've been spotted the rumour of your awakening will spread across the school. Not that you even care at this point. Your only goal is seeing your father buried and taking the time to respect both him and your mother.

You're greeted with a cozy space inside the airship. Far better than what you're used to with Bullheads, anyway. There are more comfortable benches with padding and backrests, for one, along with a fair amount of extra leg room. Some of that legroom is taken by Jet's casket, however. You and Ruby take a seat on the right of the ship while Glynda takes some her seat on the left. Ozpin, who entered first, is speaking with the pilot about details. Your eyes never leave deter from your father's corpse. Something about all this seems strange, but you can't quite put your finger on it. It's true that your mind is... muddled at the moment, as would anyone if they were put in a similar situation, but still, something you can't quite hear. It's maddening yet ignorable.

Maybe it'll go away when this is done... I think I need a nap or something.

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It took some time for everything to truly be prepared. You, Ruby, Ozpin, and Glynda waited as a small team, presumably hired by Ozpin, dug up the casket of Clementine Tawny-Slater. Unlike Jet's, hers was an older casket made of wood.

"Would you like them to be together?" Ozpin whispers to you. "The casket is big enough."

"I... why ask me that?"

"You are the only... worthy Slater that could make the choice."

You stare at the wooden casket placed beside the hole it once situated in.

"To have them together... yeah... yeah, put them together. I... don't want to see it, though."

"Understandable. Glynda, would you..."

"Of course."

You turn around to face the village you once called home. You can hear the casket open, the wave of Glynda's riding crop as she carefully lifts Clementine's body out of her casket and into Jet's. Ruby, like you, turns away. She snuggles in closer, resting her head against your chest.

"You're okay?"

"Yeah... thank you, Ruby, for coming."

"Not 'Little Red'?" She jokes.

"No... not today," you smile at her. "I'm not in a joking mood, unfortunately."

"I know... it's kind of cool to see, though... that you can actually feel sad."

You chuckle.

"I've felt down before, Ruby."

"Mhm, I know... but this is different. This is... what relationships are about, right? Being there during the hard times?"

You gently place a kiss on her head then rest your cheek against her soft hair.

"Yeah... I suppose so."

You hear a casket close behind you which means they're done.

"Lower the casket," you quietly request.

Glynda follows your instructions, lifting the entire casket and setting it down in the hole. You turn around once you hear it rest in the dirt and clay beneath you. Ozpin gives the workers a discreet nodding, ordering them to fill the grave with the same dirt they dug up. Slowly but surely the dirt piles onto the clear casket. You don't bother watching as your parents are hidden away once more by soil. You keep your eyes on the gravestones that read their names. Ruby, Ozpin, and Glynda mimic your actions, all giving respect to the people that some knew and one didn't.

The sound of shovels entering and tossing dirt continues for what feels like hours. Droplets of rain drip down from the darkening clouds above – first merely informing those of its presence, then raining down hard. Ozpin allows the workers to retreat to their own transportation now that their work is done.

"We'll be waiting at the airship," Ozpin informs.

"Go on without me. I can get back to Beacon on my own."

"Very well. Ms. Rose, are you coming?"

She looks back at the Headmaster, answering him with a mere glance. Ozpin understands the message in her eyes and bows his head.

The two elders walk away, leaving you and Ruby to stand in the rain and stare at the stone.

"You're crying."

"It's just the rain," you dismiss.

"You're crying."

"You're repetitive."

"But you're still crying."

You nudge Ruby, causing her to chuckle.

"You don't have to be right all the time, you know?" You playfully say.

"I take my victories when I can," she proudly responds.

You slip your hand out of hers and wrap it around her shoulder, pulling her in close. She wraps her arm around your waist to get even closer, to increase the contact. You two hold that position minute after minute until nearly three hours pass. The rain has calmed down, and Ruby has fallen asleep as she lies against you.

"I guess my moping time is done," you whisper to not wake her. "Thank you, Ruby... I..." You look down at her sleeping face, taking in the small breaths, the quiet sounds she makes as she sleeps. "I wouldn't trade this moment for the world..."

Within thirty seconds you leap yourself and Ruby back to Beacon, leaving shadows before the graves. From a distance, another approaches. Harrier Slater, dampened from the rain, stops in front of the graves. He's been there the whole time, watching you stand in silence with only the rain to occupy his ears. It was calming, at least.

"Here we are again, huh, brother? I watch you get buried once more because of him... because of (Y/N). Perhaps things would have gone differently if you had listened to me... heh... but that was never your style, was it? No matter how many times I offered advice you would brush it off. You even stopped training just to have a family while I..." Harrier exhales before looking towards the village. "I suppose I'm the only one that's changed."

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Harrier approaches the building he's visited only a handful of times. Usually when the two brothers reunite they meet in one of the four Kingdoms or happen upon each other during travels. The last time he saw his brother, Clementine was close to her due date. That was three years ago. Now the older brother stands in the village, in front of a door, waiting for someone to answer.

Harrier's outfit has barely changed over the years, much like Jet. A long tailcoat, dark glasses, neatly slicked hair, everything mirroring his days at Beacon. As Jet opens the door, he proves wearing similar clothing is not an oddity. He still bears his white outfit with a golden bracer, despite having a child in the home.

"Harrier! It's been too long," Jet greets, embracing his brother.

"Indeed," he hugs Jet back. "You look good, brother. Perhaps a little... weaker," he teases.

"Hey, find time to train when dealing with a wife and child," Jet chuckles, inviting his brother inside. "I'm sure I could still take you on."

Harrier snickers.

"We'll have to spar sometime soon. Speaking of, is your family here?"

Harrier peaks around the entrance of the house. Jet and Clementine have a modest house consisting of only a few rooms. The main room with tables, chairs, a fridge – clearly a dining area and kitchen. There are pictures neatly placed along shelves, likely places by Clementine, consisting of her, Jet, you, and even some of Harrier. He rolls his eyes at the pictures of him in his youth.

"Take a seat. You want something to drink? Tea? Water?"

"Water is fine, thank you," he answers as he takes a seat.

"Daddy! Who's dat?" A young voice shouts from down the hall.

Harrier peaks down the hallway and spots a very young child, about three years old, stumbling towards him.

"(Y/N), I thought you were playing with your toys," Jet says with a caretakers voice, one Harrier's never heard before.

"But I wanna see the... daddy... there are two daddys."

Jet chuckles before taking you into his arms.

"(Y/N), this is Uncle Harrier. Remember I told you about him?"

"Mmm... why are his eyes bwack?"

"Those are glasses, (Y/N). Let me take you back to your room. I want to talk to Uncle Harrier alone."

"Okay, daddy. But can we train moar?"

"Later, sure," Jet agrees as he brings you back to your room.

He sets you down, shuts the door, and returns to the kitchen.

"Sorry about that. He's a curious one."

"I can see... cute kid. You're teaching him to fight?"

Jet nods, grabbing a glass of water and setting it down for his brother.

"Yeah, I figured it was best. Clementine didn't want to but I managed to convince her. She's a fighter too... kind of... he seems to enjoy it, at least."

"Slaters tend to be born fighters. Except you, of course. Remember your early days."

Jet's eyes fall at the mention of his childhood.

"Yes... I remember. But hey, look at me now. We're equals."

"Debatable. I've been training a lot and looking for new ways to improve myself. I may have found a way to improve our Semblance."

Jet's brow heightens at the news.

"Really? I've never heard of something like that before."

"It's a rumour so it may prove fruitless, but it intrigues me enough to pursue it."

Jet taps the table as he thinks.

"Harrier... don't you have your own wife and child on the way? Shouldn't you be with them?"

"Tsk, please, I take time for them. This is important, Jet. If this changes my Semblance then it could affect yours too. Aren't you interested?"

Jet shrugs, taking a sip of water.

"Kind of, but I have other things to think about. Actually, you haven't introduced me to your family. When will that happen?"

Harrier shrugs.

"Soon enough, maybe. We both have goals we must attain. Just remember that we're Huntsmen."

Jet begins laughing.

"Jeez, getting so serious," he shakes his head, a smile on his face. "I've missed that balance. It's why we were the best team."

"Hmph, I suppose it happens with siblings. I just hope that you don't stay on the sidelines, Jet. You can feel it too, can't you? Big things are coming."

Jet chugs his water then wipes his mouth.

"Yeah, I can't avoid it. Clementine made that clear. Don't worry, Harrier, we'll be fine. We're the immortal Slaters, after all," he jokes.

"Mm... Immortal... I like it..."

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Harrier's senses return after those thoughts.

"And you died... I lived... Harrier the Immortal wanders Remnant doing the bidding of Salem... what a strange twist of fate, huh?" He looks up at the raining clouds, embracing the droplets. "Perhaps things will come full circle in time... perhaps your death will have meaning, like you hoped... and your little scheme doesn't backfire."

Yeah, a shorter chapter. Sometimes it happens like that. I did exactly what I wanted to do with this one, though. I don't always have to have these 10,000 plus word chapters to get the point across. This, along with the next two or three, will be some calmer chapters. Just some fun stuff to pass the time before the Vytal Festival starts. Yes, Volume 3 will officially begin soon. It's gonna be a fun one, let me tell you. I've been planning it for a long time and I think you'll like what I've got in store. So, I'll see you all next time!

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