RWBY: Crimson Shadow

by Chinsangan

Within eleven years, you've travelled all across Remnant to learn from the greatest Huntsmen and Huntresses – teachers and warriors. Now your journey is reaching its peak at Beacon Academy. It's there you'll complete your training, and it's there where you'll meet your new family; starting with your father, Professor Ozpin, Headmaster of Beacon. (Male Reader x Ruby Rose)

37. Chapter 37: Slater's Curse

Chapter 37: Slater's Curse, Marked for Life

Jet Slater, one of the most influential and famous Huntsman of his time, has found a goal he can dedicate himself to. Something more than just wandering Remnant, killing Grimm while trying not to die himself. Now he's a guardian, both professionally and personally. He protects his village – his home. He protects his wife, a woman so important, and his son, the boy he loves more than anything.

That child remains indoors, playing with his toys while imagining he's the greatest warrior in the lands. He can hear you roaring and making sound effects as you jump around the room, flailing your wooden sword. He chuckles before returning his gaze to Clementine, who hangs out some clothes on the line.

"We could always use a dryer, you know," he remarks, shifting his position against the wall.

"I prefer spending my time outdoors," she gently responds, hanging up the last shirt. "Besides, I couldn't hear (Y/N)'s adventure otherwise."

Jet snickers. "A lone hero standing against the Grimm as they overwhelm Vale! Quite the tale, don't you say?"

"Oh, indeed," she smiles, stepping towards Jet. "Perhaps we'll see him become that. You've already taken the steps, have you not?" She leans against the wall beside Jet.

"Hey, you weren't supposed to know that," he nudges her. "I thought you wanted him to be a farmer?"

Clementine laughs but refuses to answer. She stares off into the forest, her mind wandering. "I don't know… whatever he wants to be. I just don't want him to get caught up in our… thing," she looks down at her hands.

"Hey," Jet takes both hands in his. "Everything will be fine, I promise. We just have to trust Ozpin and do our part. Luckily, all I have to do is watch over you both."

"Psh, jerk," she pulls her hands back, chuckling. "You get the easy job."

"Hey," he shrugs. "I didn't decide it. Don't worry, everything will be fine. Between Harrier and I, who can stop us?"

"Is Harrier even in the know?"

"Not that I know," Jet crosses his arms. "I would imagine so. I haven't spoken to him in a while. I think his kid should be two or something."

"You're terrible! You don't even know," she slaps his chest playfully.

"Hey, he could call me up, you know!" Jet defends himself. "Why do I have to be the on-"

"G-GRIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIM!" A voice shouts from across the village.

Both Clementine and Jet's eyes sharpen once hearing that word.

"Clementine, keep (Y/N) indoors. I'll check it out."

"Right!" The two split up, Jet running past the building and to the other side of the village.

Villagers scream and run to their homes, locking the doors and hiding in their basements. Jet knows this won't do anything, though.

"Idiot! This will just bring more Grimm!" He huffs through his teeth. "He should have just come to me."

Jet slides to a halt when he spots the Beowolf ripping apart a villager – the local watchman. Jet reaches into his pocket and pulls out a hilt-sized object. With a click, it expands into an average blade. He dashes forward, cutting through the Beowolf like butter. He stops a foot behind the Beowolf, listening to the sound of it disintegrating.

Once its gone, Jet kneels down and rests his fingers on the ground. He can feel some light shaking.

"More of them… well," he stands up. "I suppose I needed the exercise… and this new blade needed some testing. But…" Jet turns around and jumps onto one of the buildings, using them to quickly traverse to his house. "Clementine! More Grimm are coming! Get everyone to the bunker!"

The snarls of Grimm soon reach Jet's ear. They're coming from both sides of the forest, some even using the main road. He leaps off and attacks the first one he sees.

"I have to keep them on me."

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Clementine hears Jet's orders and him leaving the roof.

"(Y/N), stay here, honey," she places her hands on your shoulders. "You're a brave boy, you'll be okay. I'm going to get everyone else and bring them to our bunker, okay? When I bring them to the house, can you lead them down there… you got that, sweetie?"

"Y-Yes…" You hesitantly nod.

"Don't worry, everything will be okay. Your father and I are tougher than we look," she winks, trying to cheer you up. "Now, I'll be back soon. Stay low, don't draw any attention to yourself."

The woman gives you one last reassuring smile before running out of the room. You shuffle in place, uncomfortable and worried for your parents. But something is still here, still in your room, that could help.

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"Come on, go to my house! Hurry!" Clementine shouts, beckoning them to hurry.

A small family rushes out of the house, following instructions. They trust Jet and Clementine to protect them, and what they say during a Grimm attack goes. Clementine instantly heads for the next house, only halting for a brief moment when she spots Jet. He's moving as if he was a ball and the Grimm are walls – bouncing from one to the next with such speed and power that the Grimm can't react to. Each creature is slain in one attack, the next fallen before the first is fully disintegrated. There's a circle around the village that's completely void of Grimm thanks to the Slater's efforts, but it grows smaller and smaller each second.

You stay close to the door, waiting for each person to approach so you can lead them into your father's bunker. You start leading one group when you all hear a noise. One of the duos outside has fallen and Grimm are coming. Your eyes shrink with fear, but you steel yourself to the best of your abilities.

"Come on!" You shout, leading them into your room.

Your dresser has been pushed aside to reveal a passage leading underground. The villagers run for it immediately while you grab Crimson Blaze from the corner of the room. You unsheathe the heavy blade, holding it with both hands, and run out of the building. You're almost immediately met with a gruesome sight. The Beowolf is leaned over, blood all over its black fur as it digs into the remains of the villagers.

You stumble back, falling onto your butt and dropping the sword. Not only is that Beowolf there, but far more are coming in front behind it… and you're all alone. Tears start streaming down your face out of fear… and that attracts the Grimm. The Beowolf before you lifts his maw, blood dripping down its teeth and fur. It growls as it slowly approaches you while at least a dozen more come from the forest behind. You try to scream but nothing comes out – fear has taken over you. Somehow you grab the blade and hold it towards the Beowolf, but the blade is constantly shaking thanks to your quivering arms.

The Beowolf leaps at you, claws ready shred through your Aura and rip you to pieces. However, someone else's blood splatters on you.

"You should be inside…" Jet says through his teeth while the Beowolf's claw shakes inside him.

"D-Dad?" You whimper. "NO!"

Two more Beowolves join in, digging into his leg and biting his shoulder. The Slater grinds his teeth as he does his best to push the hulking creatures off him.

"Run… (Y/N), run now!" He screams.

Without a second thought, you start running away from the village. Crimson Blaze is dragging behind you, leaving a clear line where you've run. Jet winces at the pain of the Beowolves' sharp claws and teeth, unsure how he'll muster the strength to get them off him before succumbing. Fortunately, he doesn't have to. In a flash, the Beowolves' lives are taken and the turn to ash. Jet falls to one knee, panting as he waits for his Semblance to heal the wounds. His eyes drift up and see a familiar face, or at least most of the face.

"Before you say anything, I know you had it," Harrier states. "But I thought I might as well help anyway."

"Hehe… your timing is impeccable as always, brother," Jet smiles. "The others, where-"

"I've dealt with the Grimm. Any who I didn't slay ended up fleeing. You know the effect I have on them."

"Very true," he pushes off his knee and stands up straight. "What are you doing here?"

"Jet!" Clementine runs to his side with a handful of villagers behind her. "What ha- Harrier?"

Harrier looks over at your small frame running across the grass, crying… crying. Harrier heard a lot of that… and then there was no crying.

"Your child… he's weak."

"He's a kid, Harrier," Jet chuckles. "We weren't so tough when we were young. Give him a break. Actually," he looks over his shoulder. "You should get him, Clem. Don't want him wandering off too far."

"I'm on it," she nods before jogging after you.

"But he could serve a higher purpose," Harrier bluntly speaks.

Jet raises his brow at his brother. "You sound… really… bland. I mean, more than usual. What do you mean, anyway? A higher purpose."

"You don't understand, but you can. Jet, I've found something wonderful. Something… unparalleled," he recites in almost an obsessed tone. "Jet… we can be the most powerful Huntsmen in history."

"Aren't we?" He jokes, trying to contrast Harrier's psychotic rambles.

"No… we are not equal."

"Well," Jet crosses his arms. "I was always a little tougher," he winks.

"No, no, no," the older brother shakes his head. "You don't understand. We can further our Semblance, Jet, augment it!"

"Augment… our Semblance?" Jet's eyes fixate on Harrier as he tries to process what he's talking about.

"Yes," Harrier smiles, taking a step towards his brother. "Don't you see, I found a way for us to become almighty! You're working with Ozpin, right? You and Clementine. Well, together, with our Augmented Semblances, we can win… we can defeat everyone, become legendary!"

"Okay, Harrier," Jet steps back. "You're kinda freaking me out. I knew you always wanted to be strong but… you're acting kinda crazy. Did you hit your headed harder than our Semblance can fix?" He ends in a chuckle, trying desperately to keep the tone light.

"No, no I'm not. Jet… it's simple. All you need is a small sacrifice."

Jet's eyes fall to the ground as he thinks on all of Harrier's words. Augmenting his Semblance, a sacrifice… a higher purpose… His eyes meet Harrier's again, shock taking over.

"Harrier… where's your family?" He asks in a serious tone.

"My child… served a higher purpose. Of course, Roya didn't approve. She couldn't fathom my purpose – our purpose. We-"

"Harrier," Jet cuts in. "What did you do?"

Harrier straightens up, almost insulted by the question. "I killed them… and I used my daughter's blood. Our child's blood is the key, Jet. It raises our Semblance to new heights! We can be an unstoppable duo!"

Jet eyes quiver as he stares at his brother. "K-Killed them?" He mumbles, not believing those words came out of his brother's mouth. "Harrier… tell me you're lying. Tell me this is just some tasteless joke!"

"You're acting like I did something wrong," Harrier raises his brow. "I found us unimaginable power with little cost. What more do you want?"

Jet takes a few steps, placing himself between Harrier and his family in the distance. "Harrier… that's sickening. Nobody… nobody would do that. I'm not doing that. I'm not harming my son!" His voice grows louder as he speaks.

Harrier sighs and shakes his head. "Jet… you don't understand. The troubles of the world, we can end them! What's that boy in comparison to the world?"

"You… you're not my brother."

Harrier closes his eyes. "Very well… it appears you don't have the stomach for it," he opens his eyes and smiles. "I can take the first step for you."

Harrier blitz past Jet, almost gliding across the ground at his speed.

"Harrier! NO!" Jet hollers, quickly chasing after him.

In the distance, Clementine has almost caught up with you. She's not concerned about any Beowolves showing up. They're not much of a threat to her, especially after a bit of training. However, she doesn't want to keep you in such a sad state. You're still crying, panting, and running. Clementine doesn't even register what's happening when she feels a rush of air beside her. Harrier comes upon you, sword raised. He slashes at your head, sending you flying into a tree. His brow raises when you don't die.

"An Aura already? Interesting," he says, sliding to a halt.

"Harrier! What're you doing?" Clementine screeches, rushing to you.

Jet slides between you and Harrier, his weapon raised. "Harrier… what's wrong with you! Stop this!"

"Your parental duty is useless here, Jet. Trust me, you want this."

"Trust me, I don't! Clem, stay with (Y/N). Don't let anything happen to him."

"But-"

Jet bursts towards Harrier, clashing blades with such pressure that blows back the immediate area. Their arms shake as they try to overpower the other. Jet can see Harrier's brow furrow, showing his strain without seeing his eyes. Instead, he sees his own reflection – a man desperately trying to protect his family. The two push off each other and disappear before they touch the ground once more. They only appear when their blades cross, allowing blood to splatter across the ground.

Clementine watches closely incase Harrier tries to break off and attack you. She still doesn't know why he's trying to kill you or what exactly is going on, but she trusts Jet more than anyone. She'll use everything she has to protect you… no matter what.

Harrier's forced back to the ground, bouncing across it twice before blocking Jet's downward slice. He throws Jet to the side and follows him, slashing in every which way before Jet can hit the ground. He blocks all of them, being kept in the air by the force behind Harrier's blows. On his final thrust, Jet bounces the blade to the side and stabs forward, taking advantage of Harrier's rush to stab his chest. He pulls himself, slamming his feet against his chest, and pushes him to the ground.

"You killed your family just for power?"

"For immortality, brother. Just drink his blood, drink all of it… and this power is yours," Harrier says.

"Drink it?" Jet repeats with disgust. "Harrier… why would you-mmf"

Harrier grabs Jet's face from cheek to cheek, covering his mouth. He throws the younger sibling over him and stands up. He turns around to face Jet, who's keeping low to the ground. Harrier looks down at his stab wound and snickers. He pulls the blade out and throws it at his brother.

"All of this is pointless, you know. You're going to exhaust yourself. I'm immortal now."

"Immortal my ass!" He screams, running forward.

Harrier slowly lifts his head and smiles as he watches his brother approach. He allows Jet to slice through him, cutting his body in half. Jet spins on his heel, decapitating Harrier then kicking it all over. He lowers his guard and watches his brother's body parts scatter. Harrier's head rolls to a stop, facing Jet with his glasses still on.

"I'm… sorry, Harrier. I didn-"

"Didn't what?" Harrier's head speaks.

"W-What..?" Jet shivers.

Harrier's legs get back up and walk towards his head. As his body regenerates, the corresponding dismembered body crumbles to dust. Harrier kneels down just as his head goes, grabbing his glasses. He puts them on as he returns his gaze to Jet.

"Oh my god," Clementine covers her mouth.

"I told you… I'm immortal now. You can't beat me, Jet. You have a limit, I don't. You'll die… I won't. Now you've seen the power of our Augmented Semblance. So…" He gestures towards you. "Let your son die… you'll become an unstoppable force for Ozpin and his little war. Is that runt worth it?"

Harrier dashes towards you and Clementine, blade ready. Jet leaps over him and allows Harrier's blade to run him through, grinding them both to a halt.

"He's… my son… I've put all my hopes into him!" Jet pushes Harrier back then readies the sword as his body heals. "You WON'T touch him! I'll fight till my body breaks for him!"

"Hmph," Harrier tilts his head up. "How… paternal. Quite short-sighted, as well. You're foolish, Jet."

"Says the man who murders his own family!"

"What?" Clementine spews. "Harrier, how could you?"

"Judgment means nothing from either of you. None of that affects me anymore. Jet, you were once the stronger of us… do you really wish to test it once more?"

"I don't know what happened to you… but I can't let you just walk away after what you've done."

"Then let us settle this once and for all… I'm finally... the stronger one," he ends with an almost sadistic smile.

The two run at each other and attack. Jet ducks under Harrier's blade and drives his own into the elder's stomach. Without flinching, Harrier lifts his blade up and brings it down on Jet's position. The young Slater hurriedly steps to the side, dragging his blade through Harrier's body.

"Clem, take (Y/N)! Just run, okay!" Jet shouts, backstepping with each attack from his brother. "I'll hold him off!"

"But-"

"This is not a discu- gah!" Harrier's blade grazes down Jet's chest, but the young one manages to counter and cut off the attacking hand. Harrier catches the blade with his other hand and continues his assault.

Clementine's pupils shake as she watches her husband, her love, fight an unwinnable battle. She looks down at you, a young child who can barely comprehend the evils of the world. Your sleeping form is so peaceful, the slow motions of your chest heaving with each breath. She slowly grabs Crimson Blaze and places it on your lap, wrapping your hands around the sheath. Her eyes close, both because of the sound of blades against flesh in the background and the fear in her mind.

Clementine leans in to whisper, "We… love you, (Y/N). If this doesn't go well… remember that. We've given you everything we can… right there," she squeezes your hands and the sheath.

Jet bobs and weaves through Harrier's attacks, trying to deal any sort of damage he can, but anything he does is healed instantaneously. Even Jet takes a moment to heal something, and he can't regenerate limbs like Harrier.

Jet redirects Harrier's blade and lodges his own into the elder's chest. As if nothing happened, Harrier turns his blade towards Jet and thrusts. The younger sibling blocks with his other hand, slowing the attack to a crawl.

"But… I hope I see you grow up. There's too much left unsaid… about my family, about… your father and I," Clementine's faces falls, resting on your small shoulder. "Everything I'm saying might be pointless… everything could end up fine, but… if it's not," her tears find comfort in the fabric of your clothing, leaving what little mark they can. "I just… I love you. I do… and I'm sorry for putting all this on you…" She pulls back and grazes her fingers down your jawline. "My sleeping angel…"

Jet spins through the air until he slams into one of the villager's house. He wipes the saliva off his chin as he gets back up, only to immediately slide back to avoid Harrier's blade. Jet spins around and slices horizontally, cutting Harrier clean in half at the ribs. As if nothing happened, Harrier grabs Jet's face and slams it into the building, breaking the stone wall and forcing the young one to drop his blade. Jet's vision is blurred, but he runs forward, hauling his body under Harrier's hips while grabbing his ankles. He takes a step forward while standing straight up, lifting Harrier over his head only to slam him down on his back. Harrier's body bounces on impact, but any damages done are rectified instantly. Before Harrier can counter, Jet tightens his grip on Harrier's legs and starts spinning around. After four rotations, he throws Harrier towards the forest, sending the man crashing through various trees at a breakneck speed.

Jet takes a few deep breaths as he kneels down to grab his sword.

"It doesn't matter what I do… I've killed him a dozen times now but it doesn't matter. My offense doesn't matter but if I stay defensive he'll beat me. Heh… I've never been in such a tight spot before," he snickers. "You're really serious about this, Harrier… what happened to you? What changed you?"

The man can hear his opponent sprinting back, whizzing by the bushes and trees. Jet readies his blade, eyes sharp for wherever Harrier decides to attack from. Jet's eyes widen briefly before he rolls forward, dodging Harrier's attack from behind. Harrier instantly dashes forward only to be met with a sudden lightning strike. He barely spins past it, grinding to a halt along the ground. Clementine lands beside Jet, eyes protruding a magical flame.

"Clem, what are you doing? You're too important to-"

"No, nothing's more important than him," she adamantly says. "We just have to stall him… and I won't let you fight alone!" She marches towards Harrier while the wind picks up, flipping everyone's hair and clothes. "I know I can't beat you, Harrier, but as the Fall Maiden I won't go down without a fight!"

Clementine pulls her hand back before throwing it forward, sending a stream of air that cuts through Harrier's skin. The man grinds against the dirt in a futile attempt to overpower the wind, but that leaves him vulnerable to Jet's offensive from the side. Harrier doesn't bother blocking his brother's attack, instead taking a massive gash along his stomach that results in some innards spilling out.

Clementine speeds in, using flames as a propellant, and creates a flaming sword to attack. Harrier parries the attack, grabbing Clementine's face and slamming her on the ground. He attempts to stab her but Jet dashes in again, cutting off Harrier's attacking arm and kicks him back. He pulls Clementine onto her feet before running towards the immortal opponent once more. Now disarmed, Harrier catches Jet's blade and head-butts him as a counter attack. An ice spike pierces his stomach thanks to the Maiden. This gives Jet the time he needs to recover off his back foot and burst forward. The husband and wife charge at the same time, ramming their blades into Harrier's stomach.

The elder sneers, grabbing both their heads and slamming them together. He keeps his hand on Jet's head and slams them both to the ground, giving him time to jump over them and retrieve his sabre. Jet's blade remains lodged in Harrier's stomach but Clementine's flickers out and reappears in her hand once she and Jet get back to their feet. Harrier notes the dark, stormy clouds convening in the area.

"Why keep fighting? This is useless… what's their goal?" He whispers to himself. "I'm unbeatable!" He screams, bursting off his feet, destroying the ground beneath him.

Jet meets him halfway, the pressure of their fist tearing up the soil and grass. Jet ducks under Harrier's slice and grabs his blade, cutting through Harrier's body then bringing the blade up to meet his brother's. The two seemingly disappear, clashing all over the area. Jet cuts Harrier's neck, Harrier gashes Jet's stomach, Jet dismembers Harrier, Harrier disarms Jet. The two brother's battle destroys the environment, each attack tearing up more and more. On top of that, Clementine is focusing lightning on Harrier, disrupting his flow even more.

Harrier overpowers Jet, throwing him into the forest and quickly chasing. The young Slater crashes through a tree before landing, slamming his free hand into the ground to slow down. Harrier speeds in, jumping off the closest tree to attack. Jet barely manages to react, taking a severe hit to his left arm. Harrier turns around and slides behind him before leaping forward again. This time, Clementine speeds in from the side to impale Harrier with her blade, ramming him through a few trees. Before he can retaliate, she slams both hands into his chest and releases a wave of icy wind, blowing him far away from her.

"Jet!" Clementine looks back as he slowly approaches her. "Are you okay?"

"Yeah…" He looks down at his nearly severed arm as it heals. "But I think I'm reaching my limit. I've never had to regenerate so much in one fight. Harrier… he's definitely gotten stronger. He's something else."

"How can you admire him at a time like this?" She scolds.

"I don't… well, maybe a bit. But- wait!"

Harrier tumbles through the air, finally stopping when he hits a large boulder. He smirks, looking out of the forest to an unattended child laying against a tree. In a flash, he moves from the forest and across the path, sword ready to pierce. He thrust forward, the steel pushing its way through bone and flesh. Harrier sneers when he sees his brother standing sideways, the sword going diagonally down his armpit to his ribs.

Jet snickers before he coughs up blood. Harrier pulls his sword out of his brother and takes a step back, allowing Jet to fall. He catches himself on one knee, holding the wound.

"Hehe… what a…" He looks up at his brother, a goofy grin on his face. "Cheap shot…"

"Jet!" Clementine runs out of the forest.

"No… Clem…"

"You…" Her fist shakes as her anger rises. "GET AWAY FROM THEM!"

Clementine burst forward in a mix of flame and wind, arcing above Harrier to slam down on him with her dual blades. Harrier pushes her back and follows up, cutting at her head and chest twice then following up with a forward kick. The woman stops herself with wind then throws that wind at him, pulling him off his feet and into the air. She lifts him high in the air, up to the clouds, then instantly slams him down, pelting him with ice and fireballs on the way. He crash lands a fair distance away from you and Jet which allows Clementine to go all out.

Lifting herself into the air, she channels every element, every shred of power she has into one gigantic blast.

"HAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA!" Her voice howls as the rush of power explodes from her body and overwhelms Harrier's location.

The Slater's body is torn apart and melting from the amount of pressure being thrown at him. Her entire body shakes as it drains everything she has, slowly changing the area from a lush village to a desolate wasteland.

Soon, her body gives out. The flame around her eyes dies out as her power fades away. She falls flat on her face, heaving from exhaustion. Jet, whose regeneration is severely limited, saunters to his wife. Harrier is gone, nothing's left that he can see.

"Somehow… you did it… heh- gak," he coughs up some blood, temporarily stopping him. "Hehehe… I always knew you were stronger than me."

Jet kneels down, almost falling, beside Clementine.

"Jet… is (Y/N)…"

"Yeah, he's okay. Better than us, that's for sure," he ends with a pained chuckle. "Come on, let me help you up."

"Help me? You're injured, I'm just tired," she scolds, slowly getting herself off the ground.

"Go get (Y/N). I want to make sure Harrier is down."

"You need to get home and rest," she shakes her head. "Don't try the tough guy act with… me?"

Her words slow to a crawl once she recognizes the blade through Jet's chest. The Huntsman looks down at his wound, at his own blood dripping off the blade. It's the only sound her can hear anymore, even as Harrier speaks.

"A fool… right to the end."

He pulls his blade out and kicks Jet's body towards the village, watching it tumble to a stop. His fading figure stares up at the sky, blood pooling beneath him. Harrier instantly turns and slices diagonally down Clementine's chest, shattering what's left of her Aura, followed by a sweeping slash and a powerful roundhouse that sends her towards Jet. The woman rolls over herself a dozen times before finally stopping a few feet away from her husband.

"That was quite an attack. In truth, I was unsure if I'd survive," Harrier monologues as he walks towards his downed opponents. "The heat of a Maiden… fearsome indeed. But it's nothing compared to a Slater."

Harrier stops moving when he spots Clementine getting back to her feet. Her eyes lock on Jet first, noting his lack of movement and short breaths. There's no doubt in her mind that he's dying. There's nothing she can do to stop that. She then drifts her gaze over to you, the child sleeping peacefully against a tree. Seeing that puts a smile on her face.

"Why… are you smiling?" Harrier sharply asks.

"Because… he'll live."

Harrier looks over his shoulder at you. "Hmph, who says he will?" He smirks, returning his eyes to Clementine.

"You won't," Clementine shakes her head before walking towards Jet. "Because… I'm asking you not to."

"You think a simple request will stop me?"

"I don't care if you kill me, Harrier. Neither of us care if we die," she stops beside Jet, his eyes glazed over. He's gone. "Because all our hopes and dreams, our plans, our goals… we've placed them on his shoulders… put everything in his hands. As a parent, that's all I can hope for," she smiles at Harrier. "But I suppose you wouldn't understand that."

"You're insulting the person you're asking a favour from?"

"I'm just saying what's true. Please, Harrier, watch over (Y/N). You two will be the last Slaters, right? Don't you want him alive for at least that? That way you're not doing it for us."

"I don't understand… why do you two put so much faith in him? Your 'hopes and dreams'? What's that supposed to even mean? Why not save yourselves? You're a Maiden! He could be immortal! Why sacrifice that for that child?"

Clementine snickers. "Because he's our son. Nobody lives forever, Harrier… and we'll put our trust in him… that he'll do what neither of us could."

"Setting a child up to fight in Ozpin's war?"

"It has nothing to do with Ozpin. What did you say earlier to Jet? It's a paternal thing? Well, it's maternal for me. Like I said, you wouldn't understand," Clementine lays down beside Jet and lays her hand on Jet's. "I can die happily… so please, Harrier, let him live another day… for your brother, for me, and for you."

Clementine takes a deep breath and closes her eyes. She's accepted her death already. Anything that comes now doesn't matter. Harrier clenches his fist as he looks down at the two below him.

"You act as if you're better than me… even after all I've done…" Harrier, in a flash, buries his blade into Clementine's chest.

Knowing where to pierce, he ensures Clementine dies quickly. The second her life ends a large, brilliant light bursts from her body and soars into the sky. His pants flick and hair whips from the

"And thus, a new Maiden is born… because of you," he turns around and faces you. "I still don't understand it," he speaks, walking towards you. "I don't know how you're more valuable than them… and perhaps that's what interests me the most." He stops in front of you, looking down on such a frail child. "Hm… Fine. You won't die today, (Y/N) Slater. Hm?"

Harrier hears the rumbling of a Bullhead. He closes his eyes and chuckles. "I see… you were stalling for backup. As if that would help. But…" Harrier walks over to Jet's weapon and kneels down, slowly wrapping his fingers around the hilt. "I'll make it a little more appealing to the eye. Well, to me," he rambles as he returns to the bodies. "I don't think people with emotions could appreciate it."

Harrier buries Jet's blade into the owner's body then steps back. "There. I'll take my leave. I'll be watching you, child."

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A small squad of Huntsmen exit the Bullhead lead by Glynda Goodwitch. They all know the situation, but on arrival, things don't look so bad. No burning buildings, splattered blood, or leftover Grimm to eliminate. However, that doesn't mean the area is clear. She's immediately concerned by the charred landscape, toppled trees, and…

"Wait, a child?" She says to herself.

Glynda jogs to the tree where a child rests. When she gets closer she recognizes the blade he's holding.

"Jet's blade…" She kneels down beside you. "So you're… (Y/N)? Why are you out here?" She speaks allowed.

"Glynda!" One of the Huntsmen shout. "You… might want to see this!"

Glynda gets up and hurriedly walks over to their location. Once in view, she pauses at the sight of Jet and Clementine. Her hand drapes over her mouth, shaking at the realization.

"No… they…" She shakes her head and marches forward until she's beside the bodies. "Search for the villagers. Make sure they're safe," she commands.

"Yes, ma'am."

The other Huntsmen and Huntresses run to the village while Glynda stays with the bodies.

"Jet… you idiot," she whispers. "What happened here? Who… could possibly kill you both? And how is he alive?" She looks over her shoulder at you. "Or did you fight to save him? You did, didn't you? Couldn't just run away… how typical of you," she scolds… followed by the flow of tears. "How typical… for you to leave…"

Though her heart weeps heavily for the deceased man she doesn't make a sound. A storm of emotions nobody will hear, only she will experience. The knot in her stomach, the clogging in her throat, the pain surging through her brain – it's all too familiar for her… she experienced it before. Except this time she sees it right in front of her. Two bodies, no breathing, closed eyes, blood everywhere. All that's left is a child, ignorant of everything around him.

Glynda turns around but doesn't move. She's trying her best to find the will to go on, to push forward beyond this. Of course, as time goes on more worries fill her. Who will the next Fall Maiden be? Who was powerful enough to kill both a Maiden and one of the most skilled Huntsman in history? And why… leave you alive? All of this will need answers, but right now all that matters is you. You're what's left, you're their last gift to Remnant. Glynda has to make sure you're safe.

She returns to you and picks you up, setting one hand under your kneecaps and the other around your shoulders. You still hold onto the sword as if you know it's yours, as if you know not to lose it.

"Mom…" You whimper.

Glynda freezes, unsure how to respond to such a word. You're clearly still sleeping so it's just a dream. Still, comfort is the best right now.

"It's okay, (Y/N). Everything is okay," she whispers in a gentle tone.

"Mmm," you curl up a bit and snuggle into Glynda's embrace, throwing the woman off. "Okay… I love you, mommy."

Again, Glynda is at a loss for words.

From a distance, hidden by the green of leaves, Harrier watches. He snickers at the sight before turning his back and leaving.

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"At least that's how I remember it," Harrier says to himself before looking up at Ozpin's tower. "What will you tell him, Ozpin? Will you tell him about Salem now that he bears her mark? Will you tell him about the Maidens and how his mother was one of them? Or will you omit the details, painting me as the ultimate villain so he'll eventually kill me? In truth, I wish I could feel tension, anxiety, perhaps even excitement," the Slater looks down at his hand. "I suppose… that's the trade-off for power."

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If not for the ever-present ticking and turning in Ozpin's room, everything would be overwhelmingly silent. Ozpin, Qrow, Ironwood, and Glynda all watch you as you process what they've told you. Ruby and Weiss, who refused to leave your side, are also taken back by the information they've been told. They're far more worried about you, though. You're completely silent, eyes fixated on Ozpin's desk.

Your parents… they weren't killed by Beowolves. You've soon questioned that claim, but you had always thought they were just overwhelmed. Any Huntsman can fall if the numbers are too overwhelming. But to be killed by Harrier… for your father to try his best to fight while your mother is simply killed without a second thought. She was defenseless yet still considered a threat.

"So you all lied to me? Every single person I met… they all knew," you tighten your fist. "Even you… you all knew and lied to me," your voice is quiet, but everyone can hear the bubbling rage laced within you. "You all let him in here!" You finally shout, getting out of your chair and slamming your hands on Ozpin's desk. "You let me talk to him! Look up to him! You let that bastard walk around Beacon after what he did? You smiled and kept it a secret while I was left in the dark? What about you?" You turn to Glynda. "Didn't you care about dad?" You approach her as you speak. "You just sat there and let him walk around? You couldn't have said anything to me? Did you just not give a damn?"

Glynda's absolutely stunned by your words. On one hand, she wants to smack you and say how much it killed her to have her around you. At the same time, she understands how you feel – betrayed.

"(Y/N)," Qrow interrupts.

"Shut up!" You turn around. "You don't get to say anything either! None of you can! I don't care if you can't kill him but you at least could have let me know!"

"So you could try and fight him earlier?" Ironwood interjects. "He was posing no threat to anyone. In fact, he's only focused on you. If we let you know-"

"So you used me as a scapegoat? A blind, ignorant tool to further your own ends?" You keep shifting your gaze to each of the liars in the room. "I'm not one of your soulless robots! I'm not someone you can just manipulate because you feel like it!"

"Is that not what you would have chosen?" Ozpin calmly remarks, keeping his hands resting at his mouth. "You always dive headfirst into danger before everyone else."

"But that's my choice! I didn't even know I was in danger! Dylan almost died because you said nothing! I almost died!"

"Because you were foolish enough to combat him," Ironwood responds.

"Well, maybe I wouldn't have been if someone HAD TOLD ME!" Your voice raises beyond what it already was. "I may not be able to kill Harrier… but don't think I can't kill you."

Everyone is taken back by statement, especially Weiss and Ruby. They refrain from saying anything despite how much they want to. Though they know, like everyone else, that you need this time to vent. To release your justified anger on them. Besides, you're not angry at them which shows it's not blind rage towards everyone.

The tension subsides when you react to a stinging feeling on your cheek. You slam your hand over it, wincing and stumbling as a reaction. Your slate-black Aura flickers, ridding yourself of the pain.

"(Y/N), are you-" Ruby stops when you leap out of the room, leaving everyone behind.

The shadow spreads around the room, quickly disappearing.

"Well… that could've gone better," Qrow remarks, grabbing his flask.

"He's… gonna be okay, right? Cause he's not himself! I know it!" Ruby firmly says.

"We know, Ms. Rose," Ozpin says, still in the same position he was. "He's just processing everything… and…" Ozpin's eyes drift as he thinks on that mark. "You all saw it too, right?"

"The mark on his cheek, yes," Ironwood responds. "It kept appearing as he spoke."

"What does it mean?" Weiss asks.

"We're unsure. Why don't you two get some rest?"

"But-"

"Go," Ozpin sternly says. "Let (Y/N) have his space for the night, but you two are still his friends. Your support will be invaluable when he needs it."

Ruby and Weiss clearly show their reluctance but they follow orders nonetheless. The two girls leave through the elevator, letting the adults have a moment.

"Oz, what're you thinking?" Qrow speaks, taking position against a wall in the room.

"It's clear that mark was made by Salem. In fact, it's indisputable," he says, eyes staring at the wall ahead of him. "It was inciting hatred and rage within him. Every time he got heated it would reveal itself… but I believe his Aura is keeping it suppressed."

"So he's a liability?" Ironwood says.

"I'm not sure," Ozpin shakes his head slightly. "I've never seen something like this before. Without invoking it manually… we won't know what it does until he's drained of Aura. But…"

"But?" Glynda repeats.

"I believe Qrow said it best, that the things she creates 'are fear,'" the headmaster quotes. "Allowing… whatever she did to come forth might have drastic consequences. We might lose him."

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A downpour weighs heavy on a section of Remnant this night, feeding thirsty plants, restoring ponds, and keeping most humans locked comfortably in their homes. The rain collides and runs down stone, passing through the creases that spell names – Jet and Clementine Slater. You ignore all the water running down your body, dampening your clothes and hair, and focus all your time on staring at those names, remembering those faces. Faces you will never see again. Faces you will never see because of Harrier Slater.

And that is the story all about how your parents were killed by a power-hungry uncle. I'm happy I can finally bring this flashback to you guys. It revealed quite a few things, but not quite everything. I know this chapter is a little shorter than others and it didn't really get to what some people wanted, but I intended for this chapter to be focused on that flashback. That's the point of this chapter. Things will progress in future chapters, of course… as any story would, genius, Chin… anyway, I hope you enjoyed!

If you have any questions or whatever then… actually, I leave a little thing for that. I've actually thought of responding to comments at the end of chapters to address questions or something. Questions that everyone would find interesting, anyway. If you asked what my shampoo was I probably wouldn't have that in a chapter. I don't know, just a thought.

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