Hey guys, I just want to apologize for the long delay in posting this chapter. As you know in the Q&A post I made, a lot of life and personal stuff kept piling up on me, which kept my mind preoccupied, and also caused a writers block.

Also holy crap, I never would've expected a reincarnation fic like this to blow up, it makes me really happy. And I'm happy to see the comments for your guys understanding for the long wait. That means a lot, since I did make 3 AN's, and a Q&A. I normally don't make those, but I am still very happy for your guys understanding.

Also I do apologize ahead of time if it draws on a lot, there is a development of the character, lots of talking, and cooking. I wanted to make up for three months or more of waiting. Also since this chapter has been on the back burner for so long, and its over 7k, I'm going to be splitting this into a 2 part.

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I don't own RWBY, nor do I own Arknights, they each belong to their rightful owners. Also I should mention this is a AU for a reason, things aren't going to be the same, or if they are, they'll haven a different outcome. Don't expect me to keep the main characters of the series when they show up in character. Though I'll still do my absolute best in doing so though.

Song that I listened to: Life is Beautiful - Kamen Rider Ex-aid, Kamen rider build Op: Be the one. Art of Blade , Come to light - Jeff Williams, Last of me - Steve Aoki , Steve Aoki & Yellow Claw - End like this, Untitled World - ReoNa (JP, and ENG cover), Signal by Beverly (ENG & Jap version), Infected - Starset, Interviewer - sung by Kano, Calling to the night , 夜に駆ける - YOASOBI, Seasons die one after another by Amazarashi JP (also the eng cover by Akane Sasu Sora), Tell me & Prover by Milet.

Edit: I fixed the spacing issues that you guys pointed out, thank you for that, I guess I was a bit drunk or tired while writing those parts ^^;; Anyway, I fixed them, and if you seem more issues, please let me know, and I'll fix them right away! And yes I do drink, and write at the same time... on occasions of course, I don't overdo it. I can assure you on that.

Edit 2: Fixed some wording issues, and very light touch ups at the end of the story due to how the words and sentences flowed.

[That very night]

The mood in the village could be best described as depressing, with a mix of anger and outrage after what they heard in the contract our chief had read aloud for all to hear. My team and I already made our thoughts clear on what we'll be doing about it. We had did all this ahead of time during one of our stops on our way back, we've been planning out the raid on the S.D.C Mine that had more of the captured . Despite us probably being tired when we wake up, we realize that if the S.D.C was willing to contract bandits to kidnap Faunus from small settlements or villages, then they wouldn't have a problem in keeping those that found out silent, especially once the word gets out one of their contractors have perished.

And that thought scared the hell out of me, I knew deep down that I have no choice but to go out again. That and I also knew I, and along with my group would have no other choice but to do it as well, or else everyone here is as good as dead. The thing that worries me the most is that I'm unsure if the bandit tribe leader might've sent a message to the person in charge of the operation before our attack on their camp, telling them that they will be going to their drop off location. The chief had managed to calm and reassure everyone that they're going to be safe, and that nothing will come to harm them. The chief then suggested we get some sleep, and talk more about this once were well rested. I couldn't agree more and ran back home to take a shower, and head to bed.

[6 hours later]

Last night was hard for me, the reason why, is because I couldn't sleep. Even after just laying in bed for an hour or two with my eyes closed, it took a long time due to the racing thoughts. So decided to think on what happened, and before I knew it I fell asleep.

I woke up early with a groan, my legs ached quite a bit since I haven't really had much of a chance to do a whole lot of heavy long distance running, before and after my reincarnation due to being busy with school not giving me a chance to do much, or dealing with the kids whenever they came around, or because of my asthma before my reincarnation. Letting out a tired sigh, I pulled the sheets off and tiredly got out of bed, and headed for the bathroom to shower, and to do other basic things.

I still wish I could feel the warmth of the water hitting my skin. I had the water set to a scalding hot, but to me it felt lukewarm at best, even then the feeling would disappear quickly. I just stood there, enjoying the feeling while it lasts, my mind drifting back to the events from the raid, I and my group conducted earlier, to the raid.

My hands and body shook as I felt sick to my stomach, I bloodied my hands once again, I still wish they had just gave up. I couldn't hold it in any longer, I rushed out of the shower like my life depended on it, and headed for the toilet and began throwing up into it while I cried, emptying the contents of my stomach into the porcelain bowl. Not soon after, I began to dry heave repeatedly as I broke down, I felt like a part of me or the souls I had merged with protected my mind from the events of last night. That god was right, I did have an innocent soul and young mind, and I guess they wanted to at least protect me from the full brunt of the emotions until now.

After hugging the toilet for what felt like hours my stomach had finally settled down, and now I just felt empty, both physically and mentally as I flushed the toilet. Watching the contents swirl down its drain. Turning away I headed back into the shower, the 'warm' water felt more divine then ever right now, while I also drank some of the water to wash the taste of vomit out of my mouth, swishing it around and spitting it out, before repeating it the process for a while till I couldn't taste any more. Sighing to myself I cranked the heat up a bit more hoping to feel a bit more of the warmth as I began to wash my hair and body clean. Though I was a bit rough with the washing leaving parts of my body red and raw from how hard I scrubbed.

After drying off, and getting changed into clean clothes, I threw on some elbow length gloves that had fire dust infused into them to keep the wearers hands and arms warm during the winter, some thigh high socks and thigh high boots. I gave my hair a couple of passes with my brush, and then headed to the kitchen to begin working on making myself something light to eat. Since I didn't have much in the fridge right now, I decided to make miso soup with what I had left, I've always enjoyed this soup, even before my reincarnation I learnt how to make it by trial and error by watching people without instructions and absolutely loved it. Though in mine I added some sliced fried bean curd into it, with extra tofu and and seaweed.

As I was making my breakfast I looked out the kitchen window to see people milling around and rebuilding still, I even saw those that we rescued being served food and drinks, though I saw some looking like they're having trouble eating. From the looks of it, it was either from their injuries, or they hadn't been able to eat so they can't be given too much. Looking at the large pot of miso soup I made, I thought to myself, 'I made quite a lot, I can give the rest away to them, I'm sure they'll love it.' I thought to myself. Serving myself a small bowl of it and began sipping on the soup while eating the bites of tofu, seaweed and fried bean curd with my chopsticks hungrily. I could feel my insides being burnt, but I enjoyed it regardless.

After my small breakfast I threw my bowl and chopsticks into the sink to be washed later. Looking out the kitchen's window at the food line, I then cast a glance towards the large pot that contained the miso soup I made. I grunted a little as I lift it up off the stove top, glad I was wearing gloves to prevent it from getting cold, and I began carrying the pot outside, and headed to the food line. Once there I looked around and saw a portable burner that wasn't being used. Walking over to it I set the pot down on it and turned it on to keep it the soup hot. "Here, just made it for breakfast; and I realized I had made way too much. There is enough for everyone with plenty for seconds if they want more," I said with a gentle smile before heading off to find Roe and the others not giving the people a chance to thank me. I saw some of the children that we've rescued playing with the rest of the kids here. I then noticed the older ones being more reclusive compared to the younger ones. I felt my chest tighten as I looked at them, the looks that they had made me heart cry out for them, wanting to help them, oh god did I want to help them, but I rather a have a professional in the field do it, since I rather not make things worse for them.

'Those kids.. God what did those bastards do to them to be like this?' I thought, while I clenched my hands into fists before letting out a shaky breath. 'I'll make sure you kids get the help you need, you shouldn't have to go through this alone, and I'll make sure nothing like this ever happens again.' I silently promised them before continuing my search. I found Roe with the others chatting, from what I heard it was mainly about yesterday, or about how their parents or their wives I couldn't help but smile when I saw them, and I'm glad that not many of us were injured, and those that were hurt, only suffered minor cuts or bruises that were cleaned and dressed or soaked in a bath or shower. Walking over to them I gave them a small wave, "Good morning everyone, I'm glad to see you guys are doing okay," I gently spoke.

Roe and the others all stood up, "Morning Yelena, and same to you as well." Roe said with a grin, "How are you doing? We saw you running back home right after the chief suggested we get some rest." He asked curiously. The others looked just as curious, and also voiced their curiosity as well.

Giving them a sad smile, "Sorry if I worried you all, I just wanted to get away from everyone, and I also couldn't bare to stand seeing everyone look at me. Plus I wanted to just sleep." I said biting my lip. "And I'm doing alright, besides feeling like crap due to taking 1 or 2 hours to fall asleep. And then throwing up earlier this morning, I'm fine." I said assuring them.

Roe and the others stood up straighter when I told them about last night and this morning, and they began to whisper to each other, and then finally looked at me. "Were glad you're fine, but on the other notes. You threw up? are you sure you're okay? You should be resting for a bit longer, especially if it took that long to fall asleep." He said frowning.

"Guys.. look, I'm fine, yeah I threw up, but it was just from everything catching up to me. I mean it hasn't been that long since the attack on our village. M..my parents were just killed not too long ago trying to protect me from be...being... you know killed or worse taken by those bandits." I said shakily. "I just, snapped and killed the one involved with their deaths, and you know the rest after that." I could feel tears threating to spill out right now.

"I don't know what is wrong with me, you guys. I was able to kill all those bandits with ease, and it scares me that I wasn't phased when I froze them in ice," I whimpered out. "But I knew and felt that if I didn't do so they would have done so much worse to me after I killed so many of them, and then I would be d...dead once they were done." Clutching my chest I felt my emotions welling up a bit.

"And whatever is going on with me, it scares the hell out of me you guys. Its like everything on the outside has a impenetrable cold that I can't feel anything warm on the outside, I can't feel the warmth of a blanket, nor the heat of water unless its to the point of scalding, even then the water would feel lukewarm at best." I said with some tears streaming down my cheeks which began to freeze on my cheek.

Taking a shaky breath, my body shook a little, "Hell I found out yesterday, that drinking hot liquids, burn me from the inside. I wanted to just spit whatever I was drinking out to stop the pain. But it was the only time after all this happened that I felt warmth." I said shakily. "What's even worse, I can't even touch someone, or something with my bare hands, or even let a single inch of my exposed skin touch you, or someone else for too long. Or it'll cause their skin to get severe frostbite, or worse freeze them. I'm sure as hell you saw the effects of that." I said shakily.

"And the after effects on the bandit that was leading the others on our village, and that leader can attest to that" I said. Hugging myself a little, I wanted to just curl up after spilling what I had on my mind to them.

I was snapped out of my thoughts when I felt a pair of arms wrapping around me, and was suddenly pulled into someone's chest, letting out a cute squeak in the process. Looking up I saw that it was Roe that was hugging me, and the others all gathering to do the same.

"Yelena, I'm sorry for not realizing it last night, what kind of friend and older brother figure would I be if I didn't see how my little sister was hurting." He said while he began to gently rub my back. "I can only imagine what you're going through is not only scary, but also confusing." He gently said to me. I could feel his hand rubbing my back as I started to break down and cry into his chest, "You're not alone in all this you know. Were all here for you, so don't hold back on what you feel to us," He said grinning.

"Besides, after what they did to us, we feel the same way you know. And we'd gladly follow you to the ends of Remnant to bring justice for those that harmed us. And now it'll be to help the people that were hurt by not only the bandits, but also the S.D.C as well, especially after we read that invoice." The tone in his voice showed he was serious.

"You idiot, you don't have to do that.. I don't want that burden on your soul. Even though you guys already have that. Just please promise me you won't go to far or let it spiral out of control." I murmured.

"We won't Yelena, were all in this together, and if we have to do it to save more people and protect our homes we'll gladly march into hell to do so." Roe said while he tightly held me.

Hiccupping a little, I tightened my grip on his shirt. "You idiot, you big lovable idiot of a big brother." I said laughing a little. I could feel the looks we were receiving, but I didn't care. I pressed my face into Roe's chest and cried. Letting all the pent up emotions come on out.

It's been a few hours now since I had broken down in front of everyone, I was finally back home, and had calmed down after our little group hug. I was walking out of the kitchen, a smile donning my lips when I saw everyone. I had them all gather in the living room and gave each of them a cup of hot tea, "Okay.. as much as I would rather rest a bit longer, we need to get this out of the way now. We don't know if that tribe leader informed the people in charge of the mining operation that they'll be heading out there soon, or not. And we sure as hell don't know if there were any survivors that escaped without our notice." I spoke, my tone was serious.

"Anyway... We know the general location of where their drop off point is from what we read in the guys contract. Sadly though they were rather vague about it, I guess not even the S.D.C didn't want them to know where they are, so they made it a vague half way mark." I said with a sigh while pulling out a physical map from the mini bookshelf from under the table, and laid it on the coffee table. There was a red circle drawn around where our village located. I looked at the red circle with a smile, I remember asking dad to show me where we lived when I was young, and he took the map out to show me. I can remember the look on mom's face when he drew on the map that belonged to her grandfather, man we were in trouble for that, but it was still something that I fondly remember. "Were going to have to travel through this route to get to there," I said frowning, as I had my finger pointed on the map.

The location I was pointing at was the border of the northern most point of Mistral, "Now since we'll be having to climb or hike through the mountains, we'll need to pack whatever is needed for this trek, food, water, warm clothes, good pair of boots, and tents, and camp equipment. Just make sure the latter and food are light so we don't tire ourselves out too much." I firmly said.

I remembered reading in a military survival book or something a long time ago before I reincarnated (AN: No joke, I had a couple of them, and read them a lot back in high school in 2006 - 08 out of boredom lol, good times.), that when you're in mountainous environments you burned a lot more energy and calories, and the higher you got the more stress it put on the body, that and altitude sickness is a thing I rather not deal with.

Though with the people on Remnant being built differently from those on Earth aura or not, I don't think we have to worry too much but it still paid to be prepared just in case. And I think with me being from not only earth, but also from Terra and Remnant, I feel like with my oripathy causing my body to be this cold, I don't need to worry about the cold too much.

Roe frowned as he looked at the map, we all could tell he was thinking up a plan on that would help us get there much more quickly, considering that he was one of the few peoples that traveled that far out of the village. I couldn't help but smile at this, I knew right then and there that he's going to be the second in command of this rag tag group of ours.

He has the charisma to have gathered 22 people so we could have a fighting chance against the bandit tribe, and even helped track them back to their camp. He has a lot of skills that make him perfect, probably thanks to his dad who used to be a hunter before retiring to raise him.

I remember the times I spent over at their place when my parents were out. But as I reminisce of those peaceful times, the thought that itched the back of my mind was, did Roe have his aura unlocked by his dad? Or was it still locked? I don't think I've ever seen him get hurt in all the years I knew him.

I was broken out of my thoughts when Roe started speaking. "Okay, I think we can get there if we cut through this route," He said pointing to a route and drew his finger from it to where we needed to go. "We can go through here, it might cut a couple of days travel. Though from the rumors I've heard from travelers, and the Sherpa's that traverse those mountains, is that it has a lot of Grimm activity, but it's also safer due to the paths being less likely to have rock slides, or crevasses hidden under the snow." He said frowning. "Though once we get to their drop off point, we'll need to make an ambush, and pray that they don't have people already there waiting in hiding to attack; just in case things go south." He told us.

Taking a sip of my tea, which thankfully was still very hot. I couldn't help but have a small smile grace my lips as I sipped from my mug; the taste reminds me of English breakfast which is my favorite. Putting my mug down I looked at him. "Sounds like a good plan Roe, and agreed though let's pray that they are stupid enough to not have have people hiding, and go with the ambush plan if we get there ahead of time. We should still stay on guard regardless, just in case they do have people, and also be on alert for Grimm as well." I said with a nod.

Looking at the others, I looked curious, "what do you guys think? Does the plan sound good?" I asked them. The others began to talk about the pros and cons with each other, looking at the map every now and then as they chatted. I'm glad they were being smart about this, and not wanting to be gung-ho about it, which honestly makes me less worried now.

As we waited, I had finished my tea, despite the pain it gives me which I made pretty clear with my facial expressions as I drank it, I enjoyed. My thoughts were broken when one of them spoke, "I think the plan to cut through that route is best. As much as we don't have the experience in fighting Grimm, we need to get there as fast as possible; before they realize what happened to their contractor." A young woman who had to be in her twenties spoke, she was quite cute if I say so myself.

I and along with Roe both nodded, "Alright, since we all agreed on this route, go get packed, eat a decent meal and enjoy what time we have left here. We leave in 2 hours." I said.

They all gave a nod and got up, "Alright Yelena; see you in 2 then." most of them said in various ways.

Once they were gone, I brought my legs up on to the couch and close to my chest, I'm glad that was all over. But now I'm worried that Murphey will bite us during this operation. "God.. What am I getting myself into." I whispered. It was obvious that I was scared for not only for them, but for me as well, I never fought Grimm, and the only time I did was by accident during the first day of my arrival while killing those bandits. I know Roe could probably handle himself, but would the others?

I was snapped out of my worry when I felt someone wrap their arm around me. "Hey, its gonna be fine Yelena, as long as we keep up our guard, and not let our negativity attract the Grimm we'll be fine." Roe said reassuring me.

"I know Roe.. But you know how I feel about having to kill someone. I already feel that we will have no choice once we get to wherever they send the captured faunus. I honest don't think I can do it again after this." I said afraid.

I let out a squeak when Roe pulled me into his chest, his hand gently rubbing my back, "I know Yelena, hell I'm afraid as well. My old man taught me a lot before his death, and the one thing he taught me before his death; was that you sometimes just have to push your personal feelings away of wanting to protect everyone. Especially if it means having to save people from a Grimm horde. He told me some of the things he and his team had to do save as many people as they could, and it haunted not only him but his team as well." He told me.

I sniffed a little as my ears dipped down a little, pulling away from him I wiped my eyes, "Thanks Roe, though you didn't have to say all that much... still though thanks." I said still looking a bit depressed about it, but did look a little better. "Why don't you head home get your stuff, and come back, I'll make us some lunch." I said with a smile. Seeing his fearful look, I just giggled, "Don't worry it won't be spicy." I assure him. He then let out a sigh of relief, "Much." I said playfully which made him groan as he pats my back.

"Alright, see you soon Yelena." You said amused.

[2 hours later]

Roe and I had a nice meal, and as I promised I didn't make his TOO spicy, but it was funny to see him squirm as he ate, and after he was done we parted ways to go get dressed and prepared and met up. I was dressed in the same outfit I wore yesterday, which was washed over night and dried while I was busy earlier this morning. I'm honestly happy that despite being both physically and mentally tired yesterday; I still had enough energy to remember to throw my clothes into the washer to be washed overnight. I checked myself in the mirror a little and clipped parts of my bangs away from my face. "Good enough for now, I better hurry and meet the others." I said to myself.

Picking up my bag I carried it with me out of the house, and once outside I hefted it onto my shoulders. The extra weight made me lean back a little, but I did my best to keep my balance, I gave my home one last look before heading out the door and locking. I then head off to meet the others.

'God maybe once we return after all, I can maybe continue with what I remember from my martial arts before my reincarnation.' I mused as I saw people giving me some waves, and those that we saved from last night, thankful expressions. I wanted to hide a little out shyness, but I waved back and smiled as I continued on my way to the others.

Once I had gotten to the other, I saw that they were all packed for the trip, and nodded in approval, "Alright you know the plan, if we get there early we hide and ambush them before they can send out a call for help." I said. "We better hurry before sundown," I added.

"Right away FrostNova." They said in unanimously. As we all started to make our hike, I saw people starting to gather to wave us off, I saw some of those that were worried for their loved ones. Some gave their promises to return and to be back soon, some even giving quick hugs and kisses as well.

I looked up at Roe, and smiled, "Once we get back, lets have a feast, we can hunt some game on the way back." I said grinning.

Roe couldn't help but laugh, "Sounds good, luckily the deer are still around; despite the bandits nearly scaring them away." He told me. "Also, a lot of the people that we helped rescue yesterday told me, and the chief, that they all wanted to stay. In their words 'our homes were destroyed, and a lot of our friends and family died to not only them, but the Grimm as well. And since no one came to save them, we decided to stay because of our kindness.' " He explained. "They're going to be helping with the rebuilding efforts, and then they'll be getting starting on making their homes." He said smiling.

I couldn't help but look surprised from hearing this, "Really? I would've thought they would left for another kingdom, like vale, or something. I am happy that they want to stay because of our kindness, and I hope we can find survivors from their village's someday." I said. "Anyway I hope by the time we get back they'll all get settled in." I said opportunistically.

"Same here Yelena, though I think everyone is focusing more on the repairs to the buildings before they focus on building more housing. I'm pretty sure they'll be fixing the inn next after the homes are all repaired." He said.

"Well that's good to hear, at least it will help with the housing problem for those we helped." I said gently. I saw not only Roe but also the other nod in agreement.

"Agreed, and as much as I don't want to say this, but we were lucky they attacked in the spring, and not the winter or else this would have taken longer" Roe said with a frown.

"No kidding, and our winters are a struggle enough as it is." A young man spoke up.

[8 or 10 hours later]

We were currently trekking up the mountains first rest point that we had marked out on the map, surprisingly it didn't take a lot of time to get here since we lived quite close to them, if by close equals to 40 or so kilometers away from our starting point. God I can feel my legs wanting to give out a bit due to the somewhat rough terrain, besides that I and the others were all feeling quite peckish since we did stop a couple of times to snack on some trail mixes, bread and water we had packed with us, wanting to conserve our more precious supplies once we made camp.

Now I remember why mountain treks or combat consumes a lot of calories, holy hell, feel like I could eat pretty much anything right now. "Okay were getting close to our rest point guys, once there we setup camp, build a fire and prepare some food. Cause I honestly could eat anything right now, even my hat looks tantalizingly delicious right now." I said with tiredness clear in my voice, which earned some chuckles as we made it our stop.

I took my pack off and I, along with everyone all began to setup the tents and camp for the night. "I'll cook tonight, we can take turns afterwards." I said. Hearing that I would be cooking made a lot of the people that knew me closely stiffen up and made some scared looks since I was known for making my food extremely spicy, to the point it could be used a weapon if needed. Seeing the looks, I gave them amused look.

"Don't worry, I won't make it too spicy, I packed my own spice mix so I can make mine separately if needed." I assured them, which made them look relieved.

"It'll just be enough to warm your bodies up, and to at least give it some flavor since were up in the mountains right now our sense of taste has sort of diminished." I explained while I pulled out the cooking utensils, and began checking the food bag we brought.

'Hmm... vacuumed sealed pork cutlets, beef cuts, cabbage and assorted veggies that are high in carbs and the like, various pickles that were individually in vacuum sealed packets, some food bars, drink powders, energy bars and gels. The hell? Tiny boxes of wine?' I counted off but looked surprised at the last part.

As much as I wanted to minimize weight for this journey and hunt for our food, at least we had some stuff that will provide the calories needed till we reach partway to our destination. I saw something that made me perk up, 'Tin foil? And Is that ground flour? Oh bless aunty Umbra's heart, we can do a lot with these,' I thought excitedly. 'Ooo, there is even canned butter? Nice this is just as useful as well.' I thought.

[play: Pokke Village Theme - MH Generations]

After I made up my mind, I decided to rummage around in the camp bag and found a foldable campfire reflector oven that was packed by Roe, the thing looked quite worn from years of usage. I placed it near the fire to let the heat radiate into it. I then grabbed a light foldable grill rack from the bag as well, and placed it over the fire to heat up. After getting all that ready, I then grabbed the sealed beef packet, some carrots, onions, thyme and rosemary, one of the tiny boxes of wine. Walking over to a flat looking rock I pulled out my knife and tore open the packages and began prepping dinner the meat and veg, humming softly to myself as I also started seasoning the meat with salt, and pepper, along with some other spices that wouldn't detract it from the rosemary and thyme, but to at least give it a boost in flavour due our decreased sense of taste. The hand I was holding the knife with began dicing the veggies with impressive speed and precision, I was very happy that my gloves were heated and insulated from the inside and out or doing this would be a lot harder due to me giving the food I make instant freezer burn.

I looked over at the others whom had finished starting the fire, and their tents were setup. I even saw some watch as I prepped, impressed by my knife work. I saw Roe who was closer to me, and smiled. "You know, I never really camped out a lot, and I wish we could all do this when were not busy dealing with something serious, but I have to say, just the peaceful moments like these is something to cherish.. even if it is dire." I said to him. "I'm also grateful that everyone back in the village packed so much for us... though I honestly wish they didn't give us so much, it was a slight burden since its extra weight once we go higher up the mountain. Though luckily with what I'm making it'll cut the weight down a little." I said with some relief in my voice.

Roe couldn't help but chuckle, and nod in agreement, "I agree Frost, and yeah same here. I guess they wanted us to be prepared in case we needed to feed those that are in that mine, though something has been bugging me for the last couple of days now, you seemed to have changed. I get that you want to protect our home, but I never would've in a million years the kindest and most generous girl that I thought of as a sister, would not only save our village from that attack, but also lead us and attack the bandit camp that caused it; even though I helped formed the group since we all wanted the same thing. Nor would I have expected us to go to an SDC mine to rescue more people that were captured." He said grinning.

His grin then went away, looking me in the eyes. "Though something tells me there is something more to it. The way you were able use those ice powers of yours without dust, and I know you don't have your aura unlocked, or have a semblance tells me something is up. I won't pester you about it since that's your secret to tell when ready. But the way you acted when you read that document, you looked like you saw a ghost, or something traumatic.. not counting the attack from days prior, I know those very looks that my dad has sometimes. You're not alone in this, and we don't want you fall too far into the pit, I don't want to burry more of my friends and family." He said softly.

Running a hand through his hair, he looked at me, a smile gracing his face in the waning sunlight, and firelight. "I know I already said this, but you're not alone in all this Frost. You have not only me, but all of us here to support you. I might have my aura unlocked, but I haven't trained as much as I should since my old man died; to figure out my semblance to match you in your abilities yet. Hopefully it'll be something to help in fighting, but I'll get there with more training." He said grinning.

I was silent, luckily I had finished cutting the veggies, and just looked at Roe. My closest friend, and the one person I would consider a brother in all but blood, a deer faunus he might be, but I swear he would make a great mule due to his stubbornness, and make an even greater dog due to his loyalty to his friends and family. "Roe, thank you. I know I had changed a lot in the 2 or so days, especially after the attack.. witnessing all those I cherish die to those bastards hands, and witnessing my parents own deaths just... just pushed me over the edge I guess is the best way of saying it." I softly spoke.

Taking another breath I spoke once again, "I don't want to kill people Roe. I wanted justice for what they did to us yes, and we all got it, honestly what we did was stupid, and it could've ended up a whole lot worse. Hell we could've called for help." I said sighing.

"But after reading that invoice, I now want justice for what the SDC has been doing to those people they had taken away from their families." I said with firmness in my tone.

"Anyway.. Roe, I promise you that I won't fall too far into the pits of revenge of hatred, you said it enough already, I have not only you, but the others as well to help me." I said assuring him.

I then paused a bit, and gave him a smirk. "Besides, who's going to be your wingman when we are old enough to drink at a bar, or club? If I remember correctly, you wanted to try and do that one karaoke scene from that old movie with those pilots remember?" I said playfully.

Which got him to laugh, and start patting my shoulder. "You still remember that? Hah, I thought you would have forgotten that. Looks like we'll have to do it after all." He said with a laugh.

I just shook my head in amusement, and then looked back at the rock I was using a cutting board, and pulled out a couple of sheets of foil and made a bed with it, and put the seasoned meat on it, and scooped out three knifefuls of butter and had them rest on top of it. I then grabbed the rosemary and thyme and laid them on top of the meat, before putting the veggies in next, making scattering them around the meat, but still leaving some room. After doing this, I reached into my bag and pulled out a spice mix labeled (spice level: Roe's mild) and grabbed 2 or 4 pinches of it and sprinkled it on top since the stuff was quite flavorful and strong. After doing that, I put the spice mix away, and sealed the foil with more foil, leaving some room to expand for the steam.

"Alright, dinner is done being prepped, I'll throw this big boy in the oven, and we make some hot drinks." I said grinning as I went to the reflector oven and put our dinner in it. "Oi, Roe, mind setting a timer for an hour? Give or take 30 minutes, the meat is quite big, since this my first time using the reflector oven." I said to him.

"Sure thing," He said as he pulled his scroll out and did just that.

I sighed to myself, wishing my scroll, or my mum, and or dads scrolls were still intact, and not damaged beyond repair from the ice that incased them from me flash freezing my home. But oh well, I'll deal with that later once were home, I'm more than happy that our family photos, and belongings they left behind were still intact, and not damaged.

I looked at the others, I saw that they were chatting, smiling, and having some fun as they relaxed from the days travel. I never would've thought I'd be able to walk this far in my life without my feet and knees aching due to my flat feet, or without an inhaler or allergy medicine.

It felt liberating in a way. Though if I knew what I was getting myself into when I reincarnated, I should've been more specific about how I wanted to be reincarnated. Sadly I can't change that, what's done is done, and I'll make the most of the small things in life though, and learn to cope. Despite everything that had happened, and is being thrown at us. I was happy to have friends and comrades to be with that are there to help me in my darkest moments. Heh, sounds like an anime, or something from a game I played a long time ago if you ask me.

I pulled out a small pan from the camp pack, and placed it on top of the rack to heat up while I prepared a basic sauce for the meat that was baking. We might be on a mission to rescue people, but moral, and keeping our bodies fed and warm is just as important. Using the remaining onion, and garlic that I didn't use for dinner, and I had began dicing and mincing them. After all that, I threw it all into the pan, and began stirring it, watching with rapt attention as they simmered in the pan till they turned translucent. When this happened I poured in some of the wine slowly, stirring gently in a figure-8 pattern. As I did all this, I grabbed the butter jar and scooped some of the butter with my knife and added about 3 tablespoons worth since we had a lot of people. With a clean hand I dipped my gloved pinky finger into the sauce and brought it to my mouth and tasted it. After this I added some salt and pepper to taste, making sure to not go overboard.

[End of song]

After I had finished prepping the sauce, I threw a lid on top of the pan, and set it aside next to the fire to keep it warm. After I had did that, I sat down by the fire with the others, enjoying the warmth, even if its just a little, I was still able to feel it somewhat, which felt nice. I never really camped out a lot, but I did do a lot of bonfires and I always liked the heat from wood fires.

"I have to say Yelena, I can't wait to try the finished product of dinner. With those seasonings and veggies, I'm sure it'll be delicious." A young man said, he looked human, and also looked to be my age or a little older. His hair was shoulder length, and was a light lilac colour.

"Thanks. I figured with such a long trek, we should have something filling. And I'm sure after munching on trail mix, something like this will be nice." I said happily.

"Hahaha! I agree on that, you're lucky your trail mix had some dried berries in it, mine had just nuts." A young female faunus said.

We began to banter a little till myself and those with sensitive hearing heard foot steps, along with small pebbles being crunched on. We froze, but quickly snapped out of it, and quickly grabbed our weapons.

"Who's there! Show your self!" I called out, holding a walking stick, while everyone looked ready to fight.

From the distance we can make large and tall shadowy figured, cloaked in rags, and metal. Red eyes on what could be a helmet was seen. The person came closer, and when he did we saw other people following behind him. 'Oh fuck,' We all thought.

But when the large person stepped into the fire light, my eyes widen, I could feel a nostalgic feeling wash over me, while memories from Terra flash by my eyes. 'Father? No he's not my father here.' I thought while clutching my head.

"Who are you?" Roe asked while he had his bow at the ready.

"I go by many names, and only those I trust deeply, know my true name. But you can call me Patriot." His voice deep, yet calm. We can tell that he was sizing us up, and I knew from my years being his adopted daughter, he was also a bit curious why we were all here.

"Patriot... sir, since you and your ah... group are this far up the mountain, and since we don't know how long you've been walking for, why don't you all rest a little, and have a bite?" I said motioning to the radiation stove, and the pan by the fire. "I made enough to feed not only us, but enough in case we feel hungry still." I added.

I can feel not only Patriots eyes, but those of his men and women as well. I can still remember my time with him, and how he saved me from that hell in the Ursus gulag. But I can tell the man in front of me, wasn't the same as in Terra. He might have the same personality.

"Sir, I think we should, we can even ask why they're all here in the first place as well." One of his men whispered to him. "Plus we ran out of rations from the last raid so it couldn't hurt to have a bite as well." He added.

Patriot only sighed at this, before looking at me, "We thank you for the offer, might I ask what your name is young miss? And why are you up here? And with this many people, I doubt its because of the Grimm or to mountain hike." He asked me.

I couldn't help smile a little, before it became a neutral expression. "It's Yelena sir. And the reason why were here, is because our village was attacked not too long by bandits, and we took their camp out and rescued some people that were taken by them. We found out who hired them so we are heading there sire." I said, I knew lying to him would be a very bad idea, if he is anything like my old man in Terra he would've call me out on it right away.

After I had said that, I could feel all eyes on me, from not only him, but his men, and those on my side as well.

"I see we have the same goals then, I already assume the bandits that have been kidnapping people have been hired by someone? And its always usually Faunus?" He asked. I only gave him a nod, a frown crossing my lips to show I meant it.

"I see, seems the S.D.C have been branching out here as well. You're lucky then, not many villages that get raided by these hired bandits, last long after an attack due to the Grimm attack that come after or during it." He grunted out as he sets his shield and weapon down. His men doing the same as they gathered around the fire.

It seems this week only gets better, and better. I hope the next morning doesn't become too much of a surprise as well.

word count: 8051 counting the beginning AN.

Holy shit, it's done! Also yep I brought in Patriot, my Beta and I talked about him, and we worked out what his role will be in this fic.

Also like I said at the beginning this will be a 2 part chapter because I couldn't think of what to type after this, also I've been making a lot revisements, and edits to make it flow better. I'm still doing my best to improve my writing, and if you see anything that seem to flow or contradicts each other please point it out, and I'll rewrite those parts to the best of my ability!

Also I want to say this again, I am very sorry for not updating in so long, I made 'Flight from Chernobog' to help get me out of my rut, and it seemed to help. Anyway, the other reason is because like I said in my Q&A and apology, and also at the beginning, the reason for not posting much is because of life and personal things.

My moms medical condition was life threatening a month ago after the surgery she had to fix the issue got worse. And we were all scared she was going to die, hell my dad was about to call the church to have things ready just in case. But after a month she is doing better now, and maybe she'll be coming home in 1 or 2 weeks, but she'll be under strict medical care from medical profession coming to help her. And maybe when she is stronger, and feeling better, she'll be having surgery to fix the issue again.

Anyway.. yeah life came down very hard on me these last 3 months. I promise to make it up to you guys, though a part 2 might take a while since I need to figure out how to write it.

Please leave constructive criticism, they help me improve my writing, and I love to hear your guys opinions. But if you just point out the flaws in my writing, and aren't being constructive about it, I'll just ignore it. And yes, I do read the comments folks.