3.27 The calm before…

"Glad to see you are making consistent progress. Overall you are doing better, much much better."

It never really ceased to amaze him. He seemed to spend nearly all his time working. Either in getting his body in shape after a childhood of neglect. Or with weapons practice with his team having missed out on some early years of instruction. Not to mention anything he does privately with his partner and sister. He had plenty of work to do, much to make up for. It sometimes seemed to astonish him how far he had come from the guy who didn't know which end of the sword was the pointy one not all that long ago. Not at least as Arc's recon time. He gave credit to seemingly everybody but himself in most cases… though that isn't to say he wasn't happy to be given some honest praise.

"Thanks Mom." He replied.

There he was sitting in his chair besides an open fire, semblance blazing with a steady and reassuring white hue constantly competing with the other pristine glow across the room. All across the walls their wills battered against each other constantly striving to push the other back. It was yet another in a seemingly endless supply of lessons he had submitted himself too and he -if he would be so bold as to suggest- was starting to get the hang of it.

"Sometimes I wish we could have a conversation like a normal family…" A voice proclaimed over scroll chat between them making a holographic image in the open space above the fireplace.

The curveballs never seemed to stop being thrown at him however to some extent…

At an unannounced point Mom stood and headed towards the fridge.

With a humored chuckle and a wave Jaune replied nodding to answer the unspoken inquiry "Hey it was your idea to call me, I just pushed the button."

"Who knew calling my brother in one of his off hours would result in what should we call it… a swoonish lightshow for all to witness." The speaker replied wistfully.

"I think we can let this die down a bit, it's about time to draw this to a close anyway." Mom announced as quick as thought. Before anybody could blink their flames began to wither away and she took no time retorting:

"Think of it this way Anna, this way you only need to explain it once. You have to be busy with all the new Intel Vale and Atlas have supplied of late."

Reaching into a fridge she pulled out a couple bottles tossing one to her son across the room. He wasted no time in gulping down liquids voraciously, not realizing until now how thirsty he was after his semblance work.

With a barely audible scoff that might have genuinely been a concealed giggle Anna playfully declared "Yeah they have done a fine job of keeping us busy here in intelligence. It would be nice to get ahead of the game for once you know? Instead of finding enemy facilities abandoned we could find them fully manned and not expecting us. That would be nice change of pace."

It really didn't need to be said, but with the news of possible internal strife within the White Fang to the point the organization might implode or splinter into several warring factions nobody doubted that everybody at home would have been pulling extra hours. The idea of each cell becoming its own "Fang entity" was downright nauseating for anybody he could name. Anna especially as both a member of the family and a liaison to their head of state it was a position that often times had her moving from one meeting to the next. Such that when she called, the Matriarch quickly included her in the lesson plans than waste her time with having her callback later.

… Though that in and of itself was probably not so much in the plan for the military officer, she proved willing to humor them. Mom as it turns out was difficult to argue with in her 'Professor' mode.

Following the news of possible abandoned facilities near or around the border they all knew Cadia had to act on the information in an official capacity. As such a search was organized. Beyond confirming that such locations existed on the Atlas side of the border nothing of note was found. It was however, something that the information was proven correct.

"We both know you appreciate the extra challenge Anna, it would be too easy otherwise." A bright and rather surprising voice chirped on the other end of the phone.

Both Jaune and his mother shared a rather quick eye contact before voicing at the same time "Miyas? Has Miyas joined in?"

Sure enough where there was just one neatly presented blond girl with her hair in a profession bun another shorter and infinity more petite girl materialized walking into view. Wearing her hair in a large braid that coiled down her left shoulder his older sister Miyas made herself known. The final triplet of the group of which Lissette and Patricia belonged too, she looked like a splitting image of her birth mates. Though she was very small of frame by comparison even to Anna who was a rather normal sized girl all things considered. Being about a broad as Weiss was despite being several inches taller.

"Present and accounted for." She said in confirmation with a playful salute in an obvious imitation of the real thing.

With a sigh signifying her surrender Anna just shrugged arms off to the side and rested her chin on her younger sisters shoulder. "It seems Miyas has indeed decided to join in."

"I take it this is what you meant by wishing you had some advance notice of things?" Jaune commented with a coy grin.

Just leveling an annoyed 'Big Sister' glare Anna decided not to dignify that remark with a comment of her own.

"Our Military needs to be adaptable, she should thank me for messing up her plans in all honesty." Miyas commented with a half-smile.

That time Anna couldn't help but scowl.

"It's just a way of keeping you on your toes really Anna! In all seriousness though… I assume nobody minds me being here?"

Looking down away slightly she drew a deep breath before facing forward again…

Guess it still isn't easy for her to be so outspoken or outgoing.

"No I don't think anybody minds, though we do only have a few minutes. I have a meeting with the Headmaster in half an hour." Mom put forth.

"What about?" Anna asked brightly seemingly deciding that her sisters shoulder was rather comfortable.

After taking a healthy pull from her bottle Mom answered with "He wanted to discuss the final assessment for our advanced class students coming up next week. Don't know thus I can't say more than that beyond Ironwood and myself would be in the same room."

"Ooof. So expect an argument to be heard from anywhere on the grounds at any time in the near future. That about right?" Anna asked.

"I never did ask you why you and he always seemed to fight. Seems to me you both try to do what you think is right." Miyas interjected somewhat surprisingly.

Jaune gave her a raised eyebrow before shrugging it off… if it concerned the advanced class he would find out soon enough. He had to admit he could understand why his mother found General Ironwood an irritant or a pest at home but… he hasn't gotten that impression thus far in his schooling.

With a deep breath and a sigh Mom eventually admitted "A good portion of it probably comes down to the fact we both like getting on each other's nerves and I personally love arguing."

"Mom that's not fair… that runs in the family." Any of the children could have said… in fact they might have all said it at the same time.

Waiving them off she continued "At least if you want me to discount old biases which most anybody from home would have. Atlas has always tried to meddle with our affairs it isn't anything new."

Not wanting to start an argument of his own Jaune couldn't help but think the general seemed reasonable enough. It might not be a bad time but to try and work beyond that inborn bias. But… it probably wasn't the time for that conversation.

"Hopefully the meeting goes well… I have decided something. About my name." Miyas supplied, maybe trying to change the subject, he couldn't be sure. This might be why she even decided to make an appearance.

He nodded willing to let the previous topic die, there was plenty bad in the world without continually thinking about it after all.

She took a deep breath before continuing "I have decided to forego my middle name as well... Like Lissette and Patricia have I suppose."

The Knight couldn't bring himself to smile given the circumstances for her decision, but he had to say he was pleased just the same. Truth be told he wasn't sure what to say at the moment regarding it either beyond having an idea she would come to that conclusion.

After a couple seconds it seemed like nobody had a good idea on what to say to be frank.

"I guess I wouldn't know what to say either." She admitted nervously rubbing the back of her neck.

"It was your decision either way, I just need to remember to call you by your first name now is all." Mom suggested seemingly pleased Miyas er… Iris was trying to move on.

"I guess it might be odd hearing Iris now, but, I believe it is what I need to do." Iris stated looking off to the side briefly.

"Does this mean you have come to a decision about your scars too?" Anna asked from behind her.

Never very good at lying Iris didn't even try to conceal her discomfort in the subject, but none the less seemed determined to work her way through it.

Jaune had to look away himself at their mention… he still struggled to believe his eyes when he saw any picture with them present.

Mom seemed equally at a loss for words though she was infinitely more angry over the matter than he himself was.

"You know nobody is going to rush you into a decision about them Iris. Your sisters said if you wanted to get rid of them they support you. Even if they had to feel it all over again." Knowing full well the decision to heal the scars would likely be her responsibility and it would cause not an insubstantial amount of pain on her daughters when she ultimately went through with it.

"I understand that. It won't matter though, I have chosen to keep the scars."

That prompted the other Arc's on the call to look between them unsure what to say.

"You don't want them removed?" Jaune asked after nobody said anything for several heartbeats.

Iris shook her head resolutely "No, they are a part of me who I am. In time I might desire them removed but for now… I will let them serve as a reminder of lessons learned."

'Except… the lesson was learned by everybody in the family. Not just you, we have our share of the burden to bear too.'

Jaune nearly spoke the thought, instead he nodded and kept it to himself.

"If it's what you want, I can't help but support you in it. Eve is still working with you right? So you still want to attend a hunters school I take it. Have you decided where?" He eventually said instead trying to keep everything as positive as possible.

Iris nodded gratefully and seemingly happy to being able to speak her peace "Yes to both, Glad to hear it. I have to ask little brother…"

Seemed like she had something else on her mind as well though…

She began to look just a bit playful as she concluded "What in the world are you wearing?"

Jaune grinned showing off his new gear proudly "I believe my partner called this a hoodie. They are actually quite comfortable."

His sisters in the image nodded non-committally "Uh-huh. It looks comfortable but what I can't understand is the bunny rabbit logo."

Jaune shrugged "Hey that's just what it came with. I don't care its comfortable on its own. It might be a logo of Pumpkin Pete. You know… the cereal brand? But honestly it doesn't bother me at all. She gave it to me and it would be wrong not to wear it." He had to admit the oddly cuddly bunny holding up a handful of flakes with each hand on the black cloth background seemed odd but. Eh it's a gift and furthermore Pyrrha went out of her way to get one for him. Supposedly the ones with the logo are rather hard to find.

"But why though? It isn't like you need clothing, much less actually need anything to help you keep warm in Vale?" Anna asked innocently enough.

Jaune shrugged "I have no idea, just that she thought I might like to wear it."

Scratching the back of her head Anna shared a look with her mother before supplying "Uh huh… Honestly I wouldn't be surprised if it mysteriously disappeared one day little brother."

Jaune seemed confused by that "Why who would steal it? Not like its valuable or anything."

Seemingly aware of something he was not the women shook their heads before sighing seemingly at the same time.

"You females are so strange…" Jaune mumbled under his breath scratching the back of his head.

Mom chuckled somewhat evilly before checking the time. After taking another drink she put a hand on his shoulder and said "It is a lifelong goal to understand us and most never accomplish it. Even other women."

Jaune sighed "Not sure what to think about that."

Laughing briefly on the other end of the conversation Anna suggested "Nobody ever does. But… Mom I guess it is about time for you to go? We don't want anybody to be late."

Mom nodded still seemingly amused. But she did turn around to prepare however she needed too.

"I guess that's our queue to leave. Nice talking to you both." Anna stated with a wave.

"I guess it is about that time. We got through everything we needed too?" Jaune queried standing up to stretch a bit.

"Yeah, we got through the reports. There is always more to do but if something comes up I will get back to you." Anna answered finally moving her chin off Iris' shoulder.

"Till next time." She stated before ending the call.

Turnings towards the door Jaune asked "Miyas… or uh… Iris looks much better. Glad she is being social again, has she told you what school she wants to attend?" He asked.

Mom took a deep breath before answering "Well… she hasn't said as much but I know she wants to come here. It's a bit of a tradition as you are aware. Atlas is the last place she would want to go, and the other institutions just… well they aren't the same experience I don't think."

He nodded. Being older than her peers would be a challenge for acclimatize, but it wouldn't necessarily be impossible. But it would be more difficult to bond with her teammates if she is 5 years older than everybody. But… if that's the path she wants to walk then so be it. Why shouldn't she get a chance to pursue her own desires?

Taking a glance outside he commented "Winter really isn't all that hard here in Vale I almost never even notice. Probably don't even need this hoodie." Referring to the fact that spring had basically returned in full form.

Mom chuckled "Yes you don't need it but just humor your partner and wear it for a bit, at least as long as she lets you."

Jaune just issued a confused look and shook his head fairly certain question marks would be floating above his head. "Lets me… huh?"

Laughing at his confusion she couldn't help but give him a hug "You will know before long I think. About time to get back, I need to get to my meeting/debate session. Love ya son."

After their embrace they parted at the door going their separate ways… to his eyes she still seemed amused about something that continued to elude him all the way back to the dorms.

***Headmasters Study***

Back in her formal Professors garb weapon included she arrived with a -ding!- from the elevator to find herself the last to arrive. Arrayed around the table was naturally, the Headmaster himself, flanked by General Ironwood and her former student Glynda Goodwitch. All three turned in her direction and greeted her with a nod.

"And there is our last participant. Private lesson plans still going well Deb?" Ozpin asked brightly before going for a swig of coffee.

Walking confidently forwards she nodded in return "They are, thank you for asking."

Ironwood seemed to hold back some of his normal criticisms about how it is irresponsible for a teacher to spend so much time in private lessons with a student, but thankfully he seemed to deter from that line of thinking. Deb however couldn't seem to help herself as she asked:

"I see you are still here James, the attack was awhile ago I am surprised you haven't gone back to Atlas yet. Surely High Command must miss you."

Ozpin could only marginally shake his head… it seems like whenever those two encountered each other it resulted in an argument, either heated or otherwise. He knew Cadian's had resented Atlas rule for nearly as long as the arrangement was put forth, but he did find it tiring that even here when working as colleagues that sentiment remained.

"One of the benefits of an established militaristic style of command, Ms. Arc, is that you can always count on other officers to step up and act in your stead with competence. I am informed of what is happening in my stead and find it acceptable. I trust my subordinates to be loyal, that's what the military does for you." He replied coolly keeping his hands behind his back with rigid posture befitting his station.

"I just find it odd that the nation's leader could be gone for so long and not cause side effects-" Deb began.

"I-"

Ironwood opened his mouth to speak probably to mention the similarities between himself and how Cadia is currently functioning with its technical ruler being away at Beacon… however Ozpin decided to cut in.

"James, Deborah. We are here to do a job. We do not have so many allies that we can afford these constant distractions whenever you two share each other's company."

A hard look at both his colleague across the table and his good friend to his left carried a great deal of silent communication. Essentially a silent plea that enough could simply be enough. They tried to avoid each other as often as possible throughout the term but it has come to the point where they simply must both listen to and order the other around.

The hard look appeared to have done its job for the most part.

Deb took a couple deep breaths before silently placing her hands on the table ready to get to work. At least willing to be a professional. Not liking somebody was no excuse for sloppy work after all.

James likely did not appreciate the lecture but he likewise seemed willing to face the group and get to work. Ozpin might have expected an apology to be issued from each of them but he was being disappointed in that aspect.

As such Ozpin felt the need to elaborate.

"Tension between your two nations runs high we all know that. However are not at a staff meeting in Atlas nor are we at the throne room of Castle Cadia. We are at a school trying to prepare our charges for the future and right now we have something of a dark task to see too. I hope that is the last I see of politics from either of you. I need you to work together if not for the Vows we all made as Huntsmen but for the safety of our students. This mission is going to be dangerous enough as is we need everybody on the same page."

Ozpin knew from the get-go that these were two of the best at their prospective roles around, however he also knew that sometimes natural bias just will not go away. Maybe cooperation was too much to hope for but they should at least be able to stay out of the others way.

He could feel Glynda sending one of her trademarked glares into the side of his head. As normal she would want him to be even more direct and confrontation than he typically was. Hopefully all that needed to be said has been said.

It was around the time Ozpin was prepared to go forward with the meeting, that his friend managed to surprise him.

"In light of cooperation Ms. Arc… I feel as though I must apologize. I know we have not gotten along at almost any time in the past and being told to work with me cannot be easy." He offered his right hand.

"Maybe it is time to try and make it work?" He suggested.

Deb seemed completely caught unawares, having never considered Ironwood would even do this. For the briefest of moments She considered the possibility of rejecting the peace offering outright. However much her pride might like to do that she ultimately could not act upon those feelings. It takes something to be the first to step forward after all and right now they had bigger issues than each other to contend with.

"I will not apologize for the times we have argued James, I stand by everything I said. But I can try to at least understand why you see things in another light than I do."

Taken slight slightly aback Ozpin just looked on mildly but pleasant surprised that what began so quickly seemed to change course just as swift. Maybe now, they could get to work.

"Well… Good to see that we might be able to be civil towards each other after all. We have a final task to plan after all."

Thus, ignoring the remaining tension in the air, they sat down and began.

***Shared Dorm room***

Jaune had no more finished with his shower and dressed in his lounge clothing before he noted a received message from his mother…

It seems she wanted to talk to both JNPR and RWBY regarding their final exams. Unsure what to think of this turn of events he simply deposited his hoodie on a nearby chair for use tomorrow and made his way to the living room outside having spied most of the group chatting around the fire when he arrived back.

Shutting the door behind him followed by a turn towards his friends he noted only Yang seemed to be missing. Kate and Ren were in the Kitchen in the far back preparing what looked like celebratory smoothies for a completed term. Ruby and Nora no doubt were serving as a judges for which drink was the most delicious, probably routinely changing their minds just to get multiple refills.

Pyrrha gave him a happy smile and a wave rooted to her spot in the sofa trying to contend with a couple of his dogs for attention. Weiss was working on something to do with her scroll, which really could be anything just down the way and likewise was trying to contend with two addition golden's. The only being who was dog free at the moment was, predictably, Blake. She was found reading a book in a high back chair with her cat firmly on its place on her shoulder. Oddly enough Zwei had found herself a pillow in the form of Blake's feet. Or possibly more likely Blake had found a foot warmer in the friendly canine.

"Welcome back Jaune! How'd the lesson go?" His lovely partner asked happily kissing his cheek when he found a spot next to her.

"It went well. I see you all are enjoying yourselves?" Deciding to leave out anything regarding the call with Anna… it anything became relevant he would of course tell her but the information regarding Iris he had decided to keep as private as possible.

Unable to keep from giggling Pyrrha observed 4 dogs decided to ply their attention to him. It wasn't long before he was the one hard pressed to keep everybody happy already halfway buried under a mountain of golden fur.

"Jeeze it's like the poor things have been ignored all day." He commented theatrically trying to be even and fair with the ear scratches.

"Have these people been ignoring you?" He asked the dogs in a childish tone of voice.

With a scoff the Heiress commented "They most certainly have not been ignored at all. Some people just have more of a tolerance dogs than others." Sticking a thumb at the Cat-girl all the while.

"Anything of note happen Jaune?" Kate inquired with a raised voice from the kitchen.

Pyrrha took the moment he needed to form an answer to kiss him yet again on the cheek before declaring "I'll be right back."

She then promptly if somewhat teasingly swayed her hips back and forth as she moved towards their room. Dressed in the tight clothing his own twin got her hooked on it was more than a bit difficult to look away. When Pyrrha reached the door she gave him a wink then went out of view happy smile and all.

Seemingly following her at the same time he was Weiss stated with a slight note of appreciation "If I might be so bold as to say Jaune, you sister has been a bad influence on her." It still was difficult for Weiss to understand how somebody so strong could move so gracefully, one of the many mysteries of the world we might never have an answer too.

He really could only groan in reply.

Kate and Ren had finished their task and went the room to pass out the completed drinks.

"So… why do I get the feeling you have something to say?" The mischievous one inquired again grinning the whole while. Probably not disagreeing with Weiss on any specific point.

Looking around the room briefly he took a deep breath.

"Well… before I get into that I notice one of us appears to be missing… where is Yang?" He asked taking a sip from the drink to try and clear his head.

"Delicious! Thanks!" Nora commented sampling the tasty drink.

Sending an amused smile at the orange haired one Weiss answered "I can answer that in part-"

Ruby found a spot next to her, the partners wasted no time in getting an arm around the others waist.

With a shared smile Weiss continued "She wanted to check out some new pieces and options for her new bike."

Intrigued Jaune asked "She intends to rebuild Bumblebee?"

With a shake of her head Ruby supplied "Nah, Bumblebee Mark II. Apparently the '2' is really important. Weiss here agreed to buy everything. I think Yang intends to get it all put together over summer."

"She is checking out her options?" Ren assumed finding a spot himself.

Nodding Weiss replied "Something like that, she wants to make her next bike 'Bigger Badder and Bolder in every way.' Once she decides on the last few pieces I can get them ordered."

Ruby decided to translate "Basically louder, faster and more flashy than before. To put it in normal people speech."

Chuckling briefly Nora commented "Honestly Ruby I don't think you are one to lecture about attachments to inanimate objects."

Ruby opened her mouth as if to object when like so many times in their career at Beacon… the unpredictable occurred.

Bursting through the nearby window with a squawk a golden bird burst onto the scene flapping wildly.

"How did that bird get in?" Jaune queried.

"We must not have had a window fully shut." Kate answered evenly.

"It's a dove?" Ruby asked curiously.

With a scoff Weiss half lectured half corrected with "No you dolt Dove's are white. That's a Golden Oriole. Notice the signature black wings and golden yellow body?"

Difficult as it was the spot with the birds rapid flapping, Ruby had to admit:

"Oh… oh yeah I do see that."

"Oh great last thing we need is a stupid bird trapped in here." Blake complained.

The bird seemingly was drawn to the cat girl and swiftly flew towards her hovering just inches from her nose chirping all the way.

"Stupid bird get away." Blake grumbling making an angry cat like swipe at the offender.

Deftly dodging away the bird seemed to squawk again as if insulted this slow human being would try and catch it. Once again hovering in front of Blake's nose yet again, still chirping.

Another miss from Blake and the Cat-Girl was prepared for drastic measures:

"Blasted Bird! Get it Shoopuf!" She commanded pointing at the irritant.

Either out of instinct or dutifully following instruction the black cat deftly leapt claws out narrowly missing the target.

"I really shouldn't think this is funny…" Jaune mumbled to himself chuckling all the same.

"But I can't help it either…" Kate agreed with a humored nod.

Shoopuf diligently pursued the golden bird as it put out an alarmed squawk for the third time in as many minutes zigzagging around the room. Narrowly avoiding claw or teeth by the narrowest of margins. The kitten seemed to realize she wasn't going to catch the bird after a half minute of frenzied pursuit and settled down into a prowlers stance and edged along trying to remain out of sight.

Curiously it seemed the bird stopped pestering the Cat-Girl and began hovering around the head of Tyrion, the friendly golden dog nearby.

"Jaune, your dog is a traitor. Make him grab that bird and get him out of this room!" Blake instructed seemingly ready to pounce again.

Amusingly enough the bird landed on the dogs noggin and made another indignant chirp at those trying to catch it. It hopped a time or two to spin around until she was facing the approaching danger…

At that exactly moment the door knocked followed immediately by it opening to reveal that the Matriarch has arrived.

"Well I am here, is everybody accounted for we have a few things to talk about?" Deb stated in greetings waving at the gang just down the hallway.

"NOW I HAVE YOU!" Blake declared pouncing towards the irritating bird/dog combo.

"I see some things never change…" Mom lamented watching Blake inch ever closer mid air.

The bird leapt off and tried to fly away only to finally be caught by its feet.

"HA!" The Cat-Girl boasted triumphantly.

*POOOOOF!*

With a puff of smoke and an "Eeeek!" of confusion A strong well put together athletic body seemed to fall to the floor.

"YANG?!"

"YANG?"

"Yang can turn into a bird!"

"Yang you can turn into a bird?!"

"Yang… why are you naked!?"

"Huh… good question… why are you naked?"

"I'm Naked?!" A familiar voice inquired obviously confused.

Seemingly everything froze as the Brawler stood up and realized that she was in fact naked.

"WAAAGGGGHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!" With a golden blur she sent Blake tumbling to the ground at a loss for words before violently slamming the RWBY dorm door open then close behind her.

"Well that was yet another thing I have not seen in my career here. Clearly I am not as weathered as I thought." Mom stated wistfully in good humor.

"By the broken moon… My sister is a bird!" Ruby lamented arms panicked skywards.

When nobody in the group could think of anything of note to say Mom just declared "Somebody will need to fill me in at some point."

Still frantic Ruby blurted out "I wish I knew what to tell you… I mean I knew that Uncle Qrow could become a bird when he wanted too and I'm pretty sure Raven could as well… oh my god my sister is a bird!"

Pyrrha left the JNPR dorm to rejoin the gang at that point and worded "What did I miss?"

Jaune had to blink as he realized… she had decided to steal/appropriate/liberate/wear his hoodie.

"Uh Pyrrha?" He questioned.

Happily finding a spot next to him she just issued a happy hum and leaned against his shoulder, smiling all the way.

With a sigh of surrender coupled with a knowing grin Mom made her way towards the kitchen. "I think I will need a smoothie before I will proceed any further this evening."

Few things got the group to agree like chocolaty goodness, with that declaration it was agreed that while Yang dealt with… whatever she was going through everybody else should have a refill. After all the judges never did decide which was superior.

***After refills had been divvied out***

"I swear I didn't do it on purpose!" Yang entreated for what seemed to be the 20th time.

The Brawler -now fully clothed- sat with her back to the fire pleading that she didn't give everybody a show intentionally. Not that Blake ended up minding as she had a good view and many others would admit Yang had a pleasing form… it wasn't exactly something Ruby aspired to witness.

"So… you were talking to the store clerk. Made a decision, and was so excited on your way back that you just… started to fly away?" Weiss asked with incredulity.

With another groan Yang asserted "That's as close as I can be to what happened! I knew where I was flying I just didn't know how to change back!" She turned to look towards the nearby professor and continued with "I don't know how to control this! How did I shift? How do I not do that in the future?"

Deb could not keep the smile off her features no matter how hard she tried. Even so she felt compelled to answer best she was able.

"Yang I do not know what to tell you beyond what most professors would be able to share. Sometime's people come of age and in moments of strong emotional output trigger abilities people did not know they possessed." She took a drink and shifted to be a bit more comfortable before continuing "As I understand it this 'bird' form you experienced is commonly passed down generations. I know your mother can become a bird and I am fairly certain your uncle can as well."

The two sisters shared a look before Ruby shrugged, Yang still looked alarmed. None the less with only possessed a mockery of her typical brazen confidence as she declared "Well… I don't know what do. I am me, I get emotional. How do I not transform into a bird mid battle?"

Deb shrugged herself "Yang it mostly comes back to a need and controlling yourself, no matter how hot you might run. You were so excited you wanted to share the news about your bike as soon as you possibly could, right?"

Yang issued a semi confident nod.

"Well odds are mid combat you aren't going to want to peck somebody in the nose. You would rather slug them. I will do some research on the subject but it isn't anything I can claim mastery of."

When Ruby chimed in Deb decided to empty her cup.

"But what about her clothing-"

"-Yeah how does she do that bird thing without showing off her bits?" Weiss concluded for her.

"Excuse me, but my babies are not bits!" Yang argued clutching her chest.

"Fine, your very impressive lady mounds. The question still stands." Blake stated back with a smile petting her kitten on her shoulder.

Weiss couldn't help but issue a rather epic scowl while everybody else more or less just giggled.

"Well you are probably going to want to get some type of specialist clothing. Something that shifts with your Aura so you aren't exposed in any way after a transformation."

Yang couldn't help but cringe at the term of 'exposed' but had to admit she wasn't quite sure what Deborah was referring too.

"What do you mean specialized clothing?"

"She means aura infused material. Something that can withstand such transformations." Weiss concluded.

"I had not heard of such things." Yang stated somewhat off balance.

"It is common in areas of the world where those type of abilities run in the blood. I know a few merchants who could offer you their selection if you were interested." The Heiress stated.

With a shrug Yang conceded the point "Sure, couldn't hurt. Hopefully I can learn to control this… ugh I can only imagine what Ms. Goodwitch would say if I accidentally 'birded' in combat class…. hoo boy."

Laughing slightly Nora agreed "Yeah though I'd be more interested in the number of pictures people could snap up more than anything she would say."

"You'd be taking pictures Nora?" Ren asked with a grin.

"Of course! Just think of the blackmail possibilities! Her boobs alone would-" The hammer-wielder replied.

"Okay kiddos I would prefer not to be called in as a witness." Deb complained silencing any talk of blackmail.

That didn't stop the students from sending a cascade of varying degrees of evil through the group. Many of them probably wondering how many of them actually got some risqué images from today's events already.

Clearing her throat Deb gave the impression of trying to get somewhat serious again as she continued "I come here for somewhat serious business so… let us try to get the heavy stuff out of the way."

Respecting her wishes the group focused up setting aside current subject matter… however temporarily it might be.

"So… I am here to talk to you about your final's for the year." She stated simply edging into the conversation.

Nobody deigned to interrupt just anxious for her to get to the point.

"The Headmaster has made the difficult decision to bring both the third and fourth year advanced class teams on a joint venture to Atlas."

Weiss had a raised eyebrow as she couldn't resist "It would take a day to get to Atlas… why are we being deployed there?"

Taking a deep breath Deb leaned forward to speak as plainly as she could. "I cannot tell you everything there is to tell. What I can tell you is this is officially a search-and-rescue mission."

Pyrrha Jaune and Kate all shared a glance before Jaune inquired "A rescue mission?"

Deb nodded "A veteran team was deployed nearly a year ago. Their job was to search for some vital enemy positions and destroy it if at all possible-"

"Wait is it STRQ Ma'am?! Was that the team?" Ruby blurted out excitedly.

"Ruby you should let her explain fully-"

"Rubes-"

Yang and Weiss reacted somewhat irked at yet another interruption….

However Deb seemed unsure what to say.

"They left us about a year ago! That's why we had to look after Zwei and inherit the house! This is it isn't it!" The Reaper asserted.

Now looking between the Reaper and the Matriarch, Yang had to admit it fit the timeline…

"What do you know about it Ms. Arc?" The Brawler asked suspiciously.

Seemingly conflicted like Jaune had never seen, his mother genuinely seemed unsure what to say.

She just sat there twiddling her thumbs for probably a minute leaving Ruby sitting there looking like she could fly out of her seat at any moment.

"It is not my intention to give you false hope or to lie to you Ms. Rose." The formal response nearly took everybody by surprise.

"Please! I have waited all my life to know about my parents I need to know this!" The younger girl implored.

"It would mean a lot to us Ma'am, please tell us what you know." Yang pressed moving next to her sister appearing nearly as eager.

With a very Jaune-like sigh… Deb quietly stated "Yes… it is about team STRQ."

Despite her misgivings and anger earlier in the year those words seemed like music to the sisters on the team. Questions flooded their minds…. what where they doing there? What are we doing there? Why haven't we heard from them? Those 3 and more came to mind, all of them halted by a raised hand from the Professor.

"I understand your desire to know more about your family. I cannot, I will not completely disregard the Headmaster. There are things he does not want students to be concerned with and I cannot betray that trust. I will tell you what I can, nothing beyond that."

Nodding eager for any scraps of information she could obtain Ruby listened with all her focus eyes glued on the speaker.

"They were deployed looking for a White Fang facility, something critical to their operations. This is the type of mission only veteran teams are assigned and there is a significant level of danger involved. Technically that danger is still present."

"But what were they doing? Why is it still dangerous? If dangerous why are we being sent?" Ruby fired off without thinking of if they would be answered.

Shaking her head Deb empathetically stated "Ruby I cannot answer all of that, as I said I cannot tell you everything you wish to know. It is not the type of knowledge trainees are told. This is not just the policy of the Headmaster's policy all the schools agree on this."

"What can you say then Ms. Arc?" Yang asked.

With yet another deep breath Deb stated "It is dangerous… because it was unknown what they would find. It was known that a large number of Fang personnel was on hand. That really is all that we knew for a certainty."

"Then why are we being deployed Ma'am?" Jaune asked very much in his 'Leader' mindset.

Seemingly happy to be back on more clear ground Deb replied "Because for one all of us, as in all 10 of us are going at once. For another we do not know where they are specifically. Atlas, Mistral and Vale all are deploying teams in the area."

"How large of an area are we talking about?" Kate asked neutrally, but focusing on what's being presented.

From there the Matriarch spelled out the plan as easily as she could. Fearing that bringing the military to bear would cause their query to flee the Huntsmen Leadership instead decided to deploy under the shield of it being a training mission. The students could cover a great deal of ground without the same level of scrutiny a military action would. They were to fan out to cover the mountainside searching for the cave in question.

"The area is littered with caves each of them potentially going deep into the ground. Like Cadia there is a great deal of mining taking place in Atlas. If the Fang have setup in an old abandoned mine shaft there is literally hundreds of miles of ground to cover."

Raising a hand Nora asked once given permission "If it's that much ground… what are the chances we can find them?"

With a shrug Mom replied "To be fair we do not 'Know' they are even here. They might have moved. The possibility exists that STRQ failed. The objective is rather simple. Stick together while we do a thorough search of the grounds. Report any findings as we operate and if we do find any Fang personnel to consult your operational leader, in this case, me, before you engage. Anything beyond what I have said including anything regarding team STRQ, I would be guessing."

Considering the implications of the assignment the group seemed to look to one another eventually ending up at their leaders.

"What about our other classes Ma'am? I assume this task is just for the advanced class." the Spartan inquired moving an arm around her Partner.

"That is still up in the air Ms. Nikos. You might have to take them while we are en route you might not. I do not know."

When nobody else asked a question for several seconds Professor Arc stood up and prepared to leave. "I guess all that is left to say is when we leave, which is very very early on Monday. Enjoy your Sunday tomorrow. We catch our flight before sunrise Monday morning."

With that she left her cup at the sink and moved to the door. Setting a hand on Ruby's shoulder on the way out.

When nobody spoke for several minutes Jaune gave Pyrrha a kiss on the neck and stood up. "Well… I guess all that's left to do is get our nightly routine done and do an arms count sometime tomorrow."

Agreeing whole heartedly on getting prepared for their evening workout Pyrrha stood with him keeping an eye on her sister team across the room. Ruby and Yang seemed slightly unsure of what to think, where as Weiss did appear to be worried for her friends. Course Blake also seemed a bit preoccupied and really who could blame her? Pursuing the White Fang just means another encounter with Adam is probable in the near future.

Thinking ahead Nora and Ren shared a glance before they stood together "Well if you three are going to go do your nightly thing Renny and I should probably check and recheck our supply of ammo. I intend to have as many high powered rounds as I can."

Nodding he agreed "Yeah, I hope to carry plenty of spares. Never know what we will encounter. I think you guys should do the same." Saying that last pointing over towards RWBY.

Finally asserting herself Ruby clapped her hands on her thighs and stood up. "Yeah we all have some preparation to be done before Monday morning. Thankfully we have a full day to get it done."

The agenda being decided everybody went about their business, starting with Jaune and company heading for the gym. At which point he couldn't help himself any longer.

"Pyrrha… why are you wearing my hoodie?"

Looking over her shoulder playfully she replied "Cause its comfy."

Another step or two down the hallway the two close friends exchanged high fives mirroring each other's rather playful strut to the door.

"Weiss…" He stated.

Looking at him she lightly said "Yes?"

"Yes… My sister is a horrible influence on Pyrrha."

Hugging him playfully from behind Nora asserted "But you wouldn't have it any other way."

Smiling in good humor he nodded and followed them for their nightly practice. Hopeful but unsure if he would ever get that hoodie back again. Even more so if he will ever learn to understand women the way women do… as imprecise as they admit they are at it.

A/N

Here you go, year 3 finale is just around the corner.

As a reader informed me Volume 5 is going and before anybody asks I have not watched any, I do not know if I will.

I am always eager for feedback. I thank each and every one of you who reviews. Be it regularly or whenever something prompts you to leave feedback. Obviously I like hearing rosy things as it helps keep me motivated but all feedback is crucial for improving as a writer. Please Review/Fav/Follow/Kudos/Comment/IM or email me any feedback you have. I Am always happy to talk about the story or other subjects.

Thank you for reading, and I will see you next time.

-Sean.