RWBY Reading of 'Relic of the Future'

by Starsyc

The cast of RWBY from a time before the events in Relic of the Future find themselves brought to watch and learn from the adventure of Jaune Arc in said story. is what they learn worth it? will they change their own fate? read to find out. RWBY belongs to it's creators and 'Relic of the Future belongs to Coeur Al'Aran, credits to each for their works. tips to improve are accepted.

3. 3 Del'Ashari

The creator of Relic of the future is Coeur Al'Aran, all credits of the Story go to him, I'm just building from there, go read it if you haven`t and then come back to read this.

I've taken notice of what's been suggested so I'll address that now.

First of all, I'm not planning to bring any already dead people, not from before the Vytal tournament anyway. The excuse for the reading it's changing the future, not a thing someone just went and did because they wanted (even if it is kinda the truth lol) so it wouldn't make sense to bring someone that has no matter in that.

I could bend that if I saw that a lot of people want someone dead back and blame it to an 'external influence' so it fits in, but until then, the dead stay dead.

Secondly, regarding Jaune's absence…meh, idk, I'll bring him later or something, I'd rather get trough this first parts without him tho.

Aside from all of that, I thank you for the well receiving of the story and I hope it keeps going well as more chapters pass.

Without anything else to say, let's begin.

Paradox -Mystic POV-

The previous chapter had been one heavy drop for all the present, most having their own deaths presented to them or confirmed in any way.

Now it was when the timeline difference truly began, but for them it meant that they got a chance to see how to win their own war.

"If we resume all that happened and look at it, we can safely guess that the one who connected the timelines was Jaune". What Oscar said wasn't very hard to figure that out, but it made sure everyone was on the same page for the coming sessions.

When the knight left those who considered themselves to be on the same side went over to the rest, grouping up to talk about what they heard in a better way.

Now the group that consisted of Oz's faction and surprisingly enough, Roman and Neo, were all together near each other as they shifted seats, with the two criminals and the wizard's reincarnation being seated with the other adults.

"I always knew he had the potential for great thing, I just didn't expect it to be like this". Pyrrha had complete trust in her partner, and she knew he was going to change that future for their alternates, but that didn't make it less incredible, even if it still stung that she couldn't see him grow. "But there's no one else I would trust more to do this"

"But don't you see Pyrrha, this just makes Jauney an even more incredible leader". The bubbly girl laughed as she patted with more strength than she should Pyrrha's back, saying that these accomplishments would make her leader the best.

"Pyrrha is right, if there's anyone that can do this it's Jaune". -she Ruby her friend, there was no way he would let them die. "he's super cool and strong now and he can only get stronger too".

She had seen him down because of Cardin's actions and was there to help motivate him that one time at the door of his room, and he was able to pull through that and learn from it so she knew that Jaune would be alright…she hoped.

Her mind drifted off to what an older Jaune would look like and how would it be their life if that war hadn't happened, fighting against the Grimm together with the others, walking throw forests and mountains, spending time together.

It would have been a good life, and she couldn't help but smile at the thought of making it real after reading the book.

Her sister noticed this newly founded and open interest in the guy from her sister and took it as a perfect teasing opportunity.

"You sure sis, you aren't saying that just because Vomit Boy may have an interest in you…right?". Her smirk grew as her sister went full on atomic red, Yang couldn't help the teasing, even if the moment wasn't the best for it.

Ruby definitively didn't agree with that. "wh-what, YAAANNGG NOO".

Suns and Neptune laughed at that along with Nora, while Ren, Weis and Blake just shook their heads at their friends antics.

Pyrrha, well, as much as she didn't like the thought of Jaune being with another girl, she was at least happy that someone had his back apart from her.

The adults on the other hand were tackling another issue.

"Are you sure this is what you want?". Confusion was all over her tone, The professor couldn't understand why a man so difficult to catch would rather side with them and give himself in, not that she would complain.

Roman could just sigh very exasperated at the question. "Look, I may not be the better person here, but I'm also not a coldblooded murdered that wants to extinct humanity". The man known as the best thief in Vale spoke, with her companion nodding along, even if she did enjoy a bit the pain on others. "I just don't want to die, and I apparently will if I continue working with Cinder".

The man shook his hand lazily as he got more comfortable in the couch.

"it's not like she'll have a chance of victory after this, especially if the kid says more about her plans in the book".

Neo agreed silently then showed a sign with a resumed version of what Roman was saying.

"We don't want to die, and you have a better shot at stopping this mess now than they have at success, we're just siding with the winners and in exchange for protection we'll stop stealing dust and other things". That left clear what they wanted, and as much as nobody wanted to give it to the thieves, that was a good deal since they were a piece in Cinder's plans that couldn't be overlooked.

The professional huntsman still didn't trust what he was saying too much, not knowing what the thief really wanted.

Said thief could already guess that they were thinking that. "look, we're not having a change of hearth and shit, but if this is the way we survive, we're taking it".

Ironwood pondered about it for a few seconds, shaking his head as he decided leave this for later. "We can discuss this later on I believe we should get a better picture on what's going on with the time travel".

That called the attention of some of them who didn't knew what he was exactly referring too.

"What Jimmy wants to say is that we don't actually know how far back the kid was sent, and what will he do so it's better we continue that goddammed book". It was what Ironwood was trying to say, but Qrow's behavior always made everything sound like a disrespect. "And if we keep reading, we might understand better what happened"

"It wouldn't kill you to take this more seriously Branwen". -the Schnee didn't want any of his attitude and it was clear that the general didn't want her to say that, he knew the man better than that and he was sure he was serious.

"I'm taking this seriously Ice Queen, but then again it's not you who has found out that their own boss was lying about the lies he had told others and spitted on your trust". He wanted that out of his system, he knew Oz was reserved, but hiding even more from him wasn't something he liked. "I'm going to get some real answers out of here when we get out".

Oscar could be heard laughing lightly at that. "Yeah, Ozpin really doesn't trust anyone, I mean, I'm supposed to be his…reincarnation, but I still know no more than anyone else".

Wasn't that a whole new meaning to 'don't trust anyone, not even your own shadow'.

Both Cinder's and Raven's groups stayed where they had been seated, not too preoccupied with making plans right now.

Raven having noticed that she wasn't mentioned and could very well have survived along with her tribe and at the same time considering that she had to relocate.

Cinder on the other hand wanted to learn more before she tried anything, it was proven that poor planning like Ozpin's attack on Salem could have horrible consequences.

The subordinates of both didn't have a say in the matter because their boss would never allow it but unlike said bosses, they were somewhat curious about this new timeline.

Lancelot appeared out of nowhere, already seated where he was last time, making some people jump in surprise.

Lancelot took notice of that. "I felt you might desire to begin once more, so I came as promised". The voice of what everyone though as a man made the guest stop.

Qrow calmed himself from that as he laid down in a more comfortable position. "Just get this started, there's not much we can get from a single chapter". The confirmation was given by the old bird, voicing most of the rooms thoughts.

"Very well, as I've said, one of you will be the one to read these next chapters and said chosen one is Belladonna Blake". Lancelot had already selected the reader.

Said girl could only stare in surprise at Lancelot for being the one chosen, but when said knight made a sign to come closer with his hand she did without questioning, after all, they didn't know the actual extent of his power.

Lancelot looked at her before talking. "Take a sit in the place beside mine and start reading". Was al he said as he handed her the book.

Blake took the book and sat down in the other chair looking uncomfortable at being the center of attention.

Jaune woke to unfamiliar surroundings.

Instincts born from years of living in danger made awakening an unpleasant experience. His eyes didn't open as they might once have, but instead remained shut as he took in his surroundings. He was on a bed; soft and warm with a blanket thrown over him. There was a pillow under his head, and a brief check revealed that his hands were free and not bound. His nose twitched. There was no discernible scent in the air, but he thought he smelled pine resin and candlewax.

Eventually, once he was certain the situation wasn't a dangerous one, Jaune opened his eyes. He was alone, Crocea Mors was within reach, and his armor rested against the side of a wooden cabinet.

Hadn't he been on a boat? He could recall the ocean and the Grimlands, him using the motor to drift out into the sea towards Vacuo. There had been a storm, he recalled. The rest was hazy. Too hazy. It didn't take a genius to fill in the empty spaces, especially since his body felt like it had been put through a washing machine.

"I guess that thing wasn't really the right kind of vessel for the open ocean. At least I'm still breathing."

Someone must have found and rescued him; made rather obvious from the care and attention he'd been given. He had to remind himself this wasn't the future where trust was in short supply and everyone considered everyone else a possible threat. The past had been a kinder place where it was humans against the Grimm and little else. Most people would help a person out if they could.

With his paranoia satisfied and the means to fight located he allowed himself a better look around the rather small room he was laid within. It was wooden in nature and unusually narrow, with a curved roof that sloped upwards and several shelves, drawers, and hidden cabinets built into the walls. Everything seemed designed in such a way as to fit as much as possible into a small space and rolls of brightly-color carpets stacked at the end of the bed concealed several beautiful pieces of pottery, each tied with thin cordage and stacked carefully in place.

"Seems like Mr. Arc has learnt more than just combat and basic survival in those years". Good instincts and awareness of one's surroundings is a valuable skill to have, and Glynda was glad her student learned how to do so correctly.

Some of the students who lived more ragged lives than the rest could understand and silently agreed with what their teacher was saying, after all one could never know who was a friend or foe in the streets.

Qrow on the other had decided to voice said thoughts. "Survival out there is harsh, especially if there was some kind of war, he wouldn't have lasted anything if he hadn't picked any of those skills, and it's not something that can be taught either".

The description he got from just moments of feeling around made some people want to lay on a bed just because it sounded comfortable.

"Hold on, wasn't he in that crappy boat, how did he end up in a bed?". -it seemed like a bed, but it was impossible for it to enter in the boat that was described, Tai thought that something may have happened. "Did he crash somewhere and was picked of?".

At the mention of that Ruby had to suppress saying 'I was right' as she had said that boat wouldn't last longer.

"Could have died there for all I care". Grumbled to herself the maiden as she continued to listen, knowing well that Jaune Arc most likely would get rid of her as soon as he had a chance.

Vernal agreed with that, only that it was with a different context. "In the end he got trapped in a storm and was lucky enough to survive". Depending on luck is stupid and something those who weren't strong had to do to survive. (So much for nothing I guess, he didn't seem like all that much to begin with anyways).

Ironwood silently had to agree with that as much as he didn't like it.

Ren narrowed his eyes when the lack of cooperation as mentioned. "Even with Salem destroying everything seems like people still won't work together". It was Ren who got that idea from what Jaune was saying. "The world doesn't change even at its own end".

"That's sad". Ruby didn't like that, not when they were supposed to come together to fight the Queen of Grimm. "it would be better if people came together".

Roman and Raven both looked at the girl for her words. Raven couldn't help but compare her to Summer, the kid was identical in every sense of the word and her trust in Ozpin was going to wind her up in the same place.

"It's always worked like that little red, you simply had a good enough life to not notice it". And on the other hand, Roman words didn't make her feel better about that. "Trust is something of a luxury in rough times".

Winter decided to step in and change the subject, not wanting that conversation to intensify. "We are still not aware of where he is". She then looked at the two who from before. "Although those decorations aren't something I've seen before in any kingdom".

Oscar could recognize them, or maybe it was Ozpin, he didn't know, but without advancing they wouldn't get any answers. "We should let Blake continue".

The girl didn't like that attention that brough to her.

Voices from outside alerted him to the fact he wasn't alone, if the fact he was cared for and rested hadn't already. He took a deep breath and let his panic go. Had this been a dangerous situation he'd have woken up in a far worse situation. Even so, he couldn't quite trust his generous benefactors just yet. It was past time for an introduction.

He rose from the bed and looked himself over. His ripped and torn hoodie had been replaced by a tan tunic that was several sizes too large and made from very thin and airy material. His trousers were the same, and his old ones nowhere to be seen. He picked up his sword but left the armour behind, moved to a small door at the end of the narrow room, and stepped through it.

It was dark outside and unbearably cold. The room he'd been in was several feet higher than expected, and some wooden steps leading down to the sand below revealed it to be a caravan or wagon-home. His appeared to be one of many, each brightly painted and arranged in a vague circle around a campfire that burned in the center. There were tents as well, around six in number, and men and women covered in shawls, hoods and armed with spears moved about between them.

It looked like he'd found some kind of tribe or caravan, and judging from the dress – and the sand beneath him – he was in Vacuo. The weapons the people carried didn't immediately frighten him since this was Grimm territory and only an idiot travelled without a weapon. That was likely why they'd left him with his. One of the tribesmen noticed him, stood on the steps before the sand, and whispered some words to another. The second bowed, and Jaune watched warily as the first man approached. Though he didn't show it he was prepared to fight, and so too was this man, his eyes friendly but his fingers tight about the haft of his spear.

-In the fireplace an image of said man was shown-

Oscar couldn't help to see the familiarity once again, something was telling him he had seen this before. (Dammit Oz, that knowledge of yours could come in handy right now).

Unaware from Oscars turmoil the rest of the room was more focused on the tribe itself since they didn't have the same feeling, although someone recognized them.

Sun, being from Vacuo was said person. "I've seen these people before, they came every once in a while to the city for trading if I remember right". He didn't know much about them, he saw them a couple of times but that was enough since it had confirmed the general location of Jaune since they were recognized to be from Vacuo.

The look of all those paintings around the man's body impressed some of the people in the room, while others weren't all that interested.

"In the end he got to where he wanted…even if it wasn't all smooth sailing". Tai's attempt of a pun only made the others groan in annoyance while Yang laughed as she made another sailing pun while Raven let out a snort that wasn't noticed.

Weis looked over to her partner whispering. "Ruby…I respect you as a leader but I'm going to be brutally honest and say that your father and sister are idiots". The girl could only look at said father with a sour expression as she responded. "You're not the first to point that out, and times like these make me think that they are right".

Blake was glad now to be reading the book and not there hearing her teammates suffer from bad humor.

In the background of the joke fest both Qrow and Glynda were more concerned about the man that was approaching with a spear in hands.

"If you have stopped with the bad jokes I believe we should continue". Everyone was saved from more of that by the Knights intrusion.

"By the moon and stars, you have awoken, stranger," the man said. He held his spear wide, making it clear he had no intention of attacking. There was little of the man's face that could be seen beneath the cloth wrapped about his head and over his mouth. His brown eyes were set in a dark-skinned face, however, and his outfit – and his mannerisms – made it clear he was used to living in the desert.

Sun couldn't help but snort at the way they spoke, having remembered one conversation he had with one of them.

"I take it I'm in Vacuo?" Jaune asked.

"You are in the Grand Desert." The man gestured with his spear to the vast dunes that spread in every direction. "The wetlanders might call this desert their own but who can hope to claim dominion over such a place? I might as well call it mine for all the truth it would bring."

A riddle of an answer but an answer nonetheless, and the man at least sounded friendly. Jaune nodded his head in greeting. "Who are you? My name is Jaune. Jaune Arc."

"Kyrie!" The man spat it like a curse, and Jaune had the feeling it wasn't a name. "I have shamed myself for not giving you a name, forgive me. I am Asol, son of Amon, and leader of the Del'Ashari, the tribe you see before you." He linked his hands before himself, the spear held vertically, and bowed from the waist. "I welcome you to our caravan, stranger. May your thirst be quenched and your burdens lessened."

"…Ashari…". The familiarity was now it was starting to make sense for Oscar, the name these people had, and the cultural design was one reminiscing of the ones seen through the headmaster's memories.

"They certainly have a very…interesting figure of speech". Weis couldn't help but point that out, especially after the way the man spat that word.

Yang on the other hand was snickering. "I don't know Weis cream, I kinda dig the way he speaks". Ruby nodded along with that.

"They seem to be peaceful individuals, it's strange to see tribes that aren't just bandits these days". The gaze of the general went for a second towards Raven and Vernal who weren't exactly paying attention since this wasn't interesting to them.

Qrow could agree with him on that. "Well Jimmy, there's always an exception to a rule". Before the general could agree Winter interrupted the two. "I'm not sure if we're seeing the same type of tribe here".

Both men turned to the specialist, Qrow looking as apathetic as always while Ironwood gave her a look as if asking her to continue.

Winter was taken aback by the focus on her, but she made her point clear. "In recent times most tribes are groups of people that look for a common survival and tend to vandalizing and theft, the people shown to us seem to share more of a cultural connection and familiarity".

Ironwood now understood what she was talking about. "you're right Winter, very good job noticing that". The woman nodded satisfied.

"I-" Jaune mimicked the bow as best he could. "Thank you? I'm sorry, I'm not really sure what the proper response is."

"Your gratitude is enough. Come…" Asol gestured for him to follow and Jaune hopped down, staying close to the man as they walked towards the bonfire in the center where some small children played in the sand and threw sticks at a target. It almost looked like a game designed to train or test accuracy. Some of the women, and more than a few men, were busy preparing and cooking food, while others busied about their own tasks, stepping into and out of their caravans, or even repairing broken wheels and axles. The chatter was loud and natural, relaxing him somewhat, and as Asol led him through he found his hand straying away from the hilt of his weapon.

Some of the men, warriors for the most part, nodded in respect to Asol, and to him surprisingly. It might have been the fact he wore a weapon too, or that he had the body of a huntsman. Eventually Asol led him to a tent with the front pulled open and back. Several cushions had been arranged and Asol sat down on one, motioning for Jaune to take another. He did so, shifting his weight awkwardly and laying his sword down beside him, still within reach should he need it.

"You have the moon's own luck for surviving this far, Jaune of Arc. My own wife found you broken and half-drowned, washed up on the shore at least a hundred miles from any village." Asol paused to pour some sweet-smelling water into two goblets. He handed one to Jaune and sipped at his own. "My sweet brought you here and mended your body as best she could. It will make her heart sing to hear you have survived the day."

So, he'd washed up on the shore after all. There was his luck helping him out again, he supposed. Even more so that some passing people would pick him up. He'd definitely reached Vacuo, as if the desert didn't give that away. He'd never visited it himself, but he'd heard a few things from Sun, especially how many of the people who lived here still followed the old ways.

"Thank you, Asol. And your wife has my thanks as well. Is there any way I can repay you?"

"I know we're supposed to root for the kid and that he's going to fix a lot of shit, but can we stop for a second to actually account how lucky he is". Roman didn't want to know how much worse could everything have been if he hadn't gotten so lucky.

Qrow agreed with that, as a man with little to no luck, this was unfair in every sense of the word.

"Mr. Arc's incredible luck aside, it seems like the Del'Ashari are kind individuals for taking a stranger like that". It wasn't very common to see, and it probably was something even stranger to Jaune if what he said about trust in the future was taken into account.

"Good deeds in one life are rewarded with joy in the next," the man said, shaking his head. "My Inessa would be deeply offended if you tried to repay her. It is enough that you live."

"You're very generous people."

"It is the way of the desert, my friend. Those who do not band together do not survive long. Our warriors will guard the weak and the infirm through the night, and those who cannot fight will help produce goods to trade. In the light of the morning I shall pick up the spear with more and guard the caravans through the day."

The philosophy this tribe had pissed Vernal off, the weak could crumble and fall like the little shits they were, there was no need for those stronger to care for them, it was pathetic.

After all, that's how Raven had taught their tribe how it worked.

The students on the other hand saw this tribe as very good people and hoped they never swayed from what they believed.

"This is a trading tribe?"

"The Del'Ashari have been many things, but we are warriors first and foremost. We do not attack the weak, however. We guard villages and kill Grimm and are rewarded with trinkets that we trade in Vacuo and the Academy of Shade." He smirked and thumped a fist against his chest. "It is a good life for good people. We also pick up strangers like you and others who succumb to the desert and do our best to nurture them to life."

"Will you be going to Vacuo any time soon?" he asked. "I need to get there so I can reach the CCT Tower and contact some friends of mine. They'll be wondering where I am."

"I am afraid our path will not cross Vacuo for several weeks, and your journey sounds an urgent one."

"It is. I need to get back to Vale."

"Defending the weak? I didn't expect anything and yet I feel disappointed". Raven commented as she crossed her arms, shaking her head. "Maybe we should look for them and teach them a lesson, don't you think so Vernal". The bandit looked at her boss smirking, she wouldn't say no to a fight.

"he's planning to contact us? I don't believe that's a good idea if he doesn't know when he is". The combat teacher pondered, the lack of knowledge could lead to a very dangerous misunderstanding from their alternates.

"And of he tries to call his friends there's a possibility they aren't at beacon yet so it would make more problems". Tai agreed with Glynda, it was simply too risky.

"I see in you the spirit of a warrior. Is this so?"

"I'm a huntsman." Though that was debatable. He'd spent more time fighting humans recently; they could be just as cruel as any monster.

"Hm." Asol nodded once and looked him up and down. "A huntsman is one who hunts for something. Tell me then, Jaune of Arc. What is it you hunt for?"

The question seemed innocent but felt like it was more. He paused to think on it, and the answer didn't take long to come. Images of his friends flashed before his eyes; Ruby, Ren, Nora, but also Pyrrha. "I'm looking for a better future. That's what I'm hunting."

Jaunes friends smiled, those who were the closest to him that were the one's mentioned had very bright smiles, yes even Ren, at how the blonde considered them important.

Pyrrha specifically could feel her cheeks heating up from embarrassment, even after years dead, he hadn't forgotten her.

The adults were more concerned with what was said before.

"he's probably talking Salem's troops, maybe he'll mention some of them so we can identify them ourselves". General Ironwood wanted that information, a lot of causalities could be avoided that way.

"Good. Good!" Asol slapped a hand against his knee and laughed. "I like your answer, my friend. All too often I ask this of your kind and they say the Grimm. I point my spear out into the desert and say `well there they are` and the huntsman goes silent." He gestured with his spear as such. "This life is too short to hunt an early death, and there is no honor to be had in wasting a life against the Grimm. Dying in defense of family, loved ones, or those who cannot defend themselves – this is a good death! Do not rush to yours hunting that which hunts you. Live, instead." He laid a solid punch on Jaune's arm and smiled. "But you, my friend. You understand this. My heart sings."

Yang nodded when her partner read that. "Honestly I just keep liking these guys more and more".

They were kind, honorable and strong, with a very good way of thinking too, it was honestly too good.

Pyrrha agreed. "It's a relief to see that they are a kind group of people".

"This Asol guy is pretty good guy, wouldn't mind sharing a few beers with him". It seemed like he eve left a good impression on Qrow.

The man's laughter was infectious and Jaune joined in with it, relaxing and drinking of the sweet and scented water, which had a faint hint of peach and orange to it. Port might have had something to say about Asol's wisdom, but he personally saw no wrong in it. He wasn't trying to eradicate all the Grimm on Remnant, though he would if he had the chance. It was better to focus on what was truly important, saving his friends, and to kill any Grimm who stood in his path.

"I have my path, Asol, and although it features the Grimm fairly heavily, I can promise you now that it's not my goal. I have friends in Vale, in Beacon, and they need my help." Of course, he had no idea how far back he'd been sent. It was possible he was only a few weeks, but also possible that he'd gone back a year or more. "Asol, do you have any news from Vale? Does Beacon still stand?"

"Does it stand? My friend, I do not know the answer, but I have not heard of it falling and such would send reverberations about the world. Alas, for we have been away from Vacuo for some time. It is possible my news is outdated."

That made sense, but it didn't ease his fears. "And what of Vacuo?" It had fallen in his time and been fallen for quite some time. "You said you went there a while back. How long ago was that? Is it still in one piece?"

"Vacuo?" Asol laughed. "My friend, the City of the Sands has stood for hundreds of years and will no doubt stand for many more. I walked its streets not a month back, and I know full well it remains still for I passed a tribe not two nights ago and they had come from the city."

Jaune's relief was palpable. His smile split his face. That was great news, no, it was wonderful news. If he'd gone back to when Vacuo still stood then that meant he was at least six months prior to their fateful mission. Heck, it meant he was back before they'd even secured the fourth relic. Far enough that he could still save Pyrrha, however? He didn't dare hope. Not yet. "That's good to hear, Asol. I still need to reach Beacon, though."

Cinder could smile when hearing that, after all it meant her side was wining, but then again, this is all to stop that so it might not happen if she doesn't work do something about it. (Each time makes it seem like switching sides is the better option).

"It's still wrong imagining that everything fell at some point". Unaware of Cinders machinations, the rest of the room were more concerned with the fall of a kingdom.

"We can do nothing about that now Mr. Xiao-Long, just make sure you remember this thing so we can go over them in the future". The response from Ironwood was true, they couldn't allow themselves to fail after this and information was crutial.

"The CCT stands proud in Vacuo. With that you would be able to reach your friends in Vale, and I am sure news travels quicker to the city. You will find the answers you seek there, or the means to find them."

"I understand. I'll need to make my way to Vacuo and find out. Would you be able to give me a map?"

"I will have one drawn for you. It will be done by the morrow. You will rest with us this night." The tribe leader made it an order, and when Jaune opened his mouth to complain, Asol cut him off. "I will hear no argument, my friend. Though your body has recovered you have not eaten. Do not belittle my Inessa so by taking the gift of life she has given you and dashing it into the sand."

The truth of the man's words became apparent when his stomach rumbled, reminding him that not only had he not eaten the day before, but that his last meal was ironically sometime in the future – weeks or months away, possibly. Either way, he wasn't in a state to be moving around, much less trekking to Vacuo. I don't need to rush things so much, he thought. I came back to change things, not to get myself killed being reckless. That kind of thinking was what had gotten all his friends killed the first time through.

"You're right, Asol. I'd be honored to stay the night."

The man's face lightened. He barked out some orders to those around the tent. Food was provided for them soon after, and for the rest of the tribe, many of whom sat on colorful carpets and chatted loudly between themselves as they ate. Despite being stuck in the middle of the desert the people of the Del'Ashari were vocal and optimistic, waving hands and punctuating laughter by slapping their palms against skin, sand, or pottery. The warmth from the fire was a welcome relief for all, as the desert had turned deathly cold in the dead of the night, and the thin fabrics he'd been afforded did little to ward it off.

Blake stopped for a second to catch her breath, the continued reading was tiring for her voice, she didn't know how Lancelot could keep up for so long.

Said knight looked at her, knowing very well what she was thinking, and in a flash, in a little table between the two, a jar of water with a glass appeared. "Are you in need of some water?". He politely asked.

She nodded, not wanting to tire her voice until she got that glass of water.

Meanwhile the rest kept up their conversations over Asol, his tribe or Jaune, not noticing that the girl had stopped reading.

Blake, being perceptive as she is, noticed that. "Hey Lancelot, how come they haven't noticed I stopped reading?". Said Knight looked at her, as he poured the water in the glass and handed it to her. "It is nothing but a simple trick in their perception so that those who read the book have deserved rest in between".

He then continued explaining. "Contrary to what I've shown, I don't have any real control over what happens here, I'm no more than a host that welcomes you into my boss's domains and said boos Is who allows me to perform these manipulations, so I'm almost as human as the rest of you and so I use this to rest without them noticing".

She didn't expect him to be so direct with her, but if there was something that Blake understood it's how actually terrifying Lancelot's abilities were in this place.

After a minute or so the Huntress in training picked up the book once more and began the reading.

The meat dish did more, thankfully. It was heavily spiced – almost too much so – but that only helped him feel fuller and he soon realized that was the point, for while the food was expertly cooked it was not generous in portion. It was amazing to think that even then they would share it with him, a complete stranger. There were many better off in Vale who would have turned their noses up at someone like him, especially with how ragged he looked.

It was as he finished his food and put the plate down that he noticed the blood that seeped from under Asol's sleeve and down his wrist. "You're wounded."

Asol followed his eyes and sighed. "Kyrie, your eyes are as sharp as an eagle's, my friend. To my shame it is so. One of our warriors, a new blood by the name of Hansus, joined the elder warriors last night. He was excited but inattentive, and I took a blow that would have slain him. The Beowolf's claws struck true." He peeled back his sleeve and revealed a bandage wrapped around what appeared to be a nasty gash. He pulled the bandage off and reached for more.

"Is it serious?" Jaune asked.

"The wound will heal. Worry not. I do not wish Hansus to know of it, however. Mistakes are common, especially among the newly blooded, and he celebrates his rite of honor tonight. To taint that with the knowledge of but a single lapse in judgment is not fair. I shall take him aside tomorrow and drill him hard, and through that he shall learn." Asol's laughter made it clear he held no grudge. "In time he will save my life and we shall call it even."

That was all well and good, but it wouldn't serve Asol now, and he had to man the guard tomorrow. If there was even a small way he could repay the tribesmen who had saved his life he had to take it. He reached out and took the man's hand. "May I look at it?"

"If it will comfort you, my friend."

"It won't me, but it might you." Jaune brought the arm close to his body and placed his fingers on either side of the wound to pinch it shut. His aura flickered, and he took hold of it, drawing it forth as he'd learned to and pushing it into the man sat before him.

He'd discovered his Semblance later in life than most, and only after Weiss nearly died before him. It had always pained him to wonder if Pyrrha couldn't have been saved as well, but Ruby had eventually cornered and convinced him otherwise. Pyrrha had fallen all but instantly, shot through the chest and then killed before her eyes – with no room for someone like him to heal her. Even had he been able to, Cinder would have just killed them both.

Here, however, when he was freshly rested, and it was but a simple cut? His aura flowed into the man before him, augmenting his own – what little of it the tribesman had. The man's eyes widened and did so even further as the wound began to seal.

The students were enjoying very well the conversation both men were having, it seemed like the tribe had a nice calming environment and it held like that until the last paragraph.

The mention of Weis almost Dying set her team and friends on edge, they already knew what had happened in the end but knowing that it wasn't the first time it almost happened was concerning.

Winter couldn't help but thank the man, he had saved her sister once and she would appreciate that immensely.

Yang also though of something similar, but she decided to speak her mind. "Well Ice Queen, seems like the knight in shining armor saved you". She wanted to lighten the mood, and it somehow worked.

"I didn't need you saying that Xiao-Long, but it's true that I owe it to that dork". She wasn't going to dismiss that he saved her life just because she may not like him, and more now that he was clearly he was a more mature now and didn't act like an idiot.

Pyrrha sighed at that, she knew her partner was affected a lot by her death, but she didn't want that to held him down.

More uncaring of the girls death was Qrow, who was more curious by the semblance the kid had. "Does he have some form of healing semblance, because that is really useful".

It was true, semblances of that kind were rare, and it made those who had one very important in a lot of missions.

Lancelot however was quick to clarify. "Jaune Arc semblance is known as aura amplification, he can power up others auras with his own and even semblances of course this takes a lot of aura out of him, but he was born with lots of it, so he hardly struggles with that".

It was really a useful if one knew how to take advantage of it, the kid seemed even more interesting for the more malicious persons in the room with each bit of information.

"By the stars," Asol said, astounded as he held up his arm before his face and marveled at the unblemished skin. "This is… you…"

"My Semblance," Jaune said.

"The stars have blessed you with such a gift, Jaune of Arc. No, Jaune of Arc and of the Del'Ashari. I name you brother here and now, and you shall ever have a place in our tribe." Asol gripped his hand before he could say otherwise and hoisted it high. He yelled out at the top of his lungs. "I name this man my brother, and Del'Ashari in all but blood. Let the stars and moon witness this."

Those around the fire stared for a moment, before they began to whoop happily. To his embarrassment some even began to sing strange songs he'd never heard of, and the atmosphere became more akin to a party. He'd never done well as the center of attention and that was with his team as back up. Here, he could only sit there as his face went red and Asol continued to laugh.

"OH! They're so cool, I wanna go there Renny, maybe we can also be Del'Ashari". Nora was exited, she didn't know naming someone family was so easy, she would have made her teams official Valkyries if she knew.

Ren could only dread at whatever thoughts her partner was having.

Tai honestly smiled at that, having experienced some form of family problems when Raven left made him somewhat apprehensive in letting other people in his life, after Summer's death he couldn't help but shut everything off, so seeing this kind of solidarity and ease towards what family is made him genuinely smile.

Specially taking in account that the people inside didn't question or doubt Asol when he exclaimed that, they clapped and accepted it, very actively at that.

Ruby was happy for Jaune too, she was glad he was found by such wonderful people.

This kind of environment and behavior was something she liked to see in the world, what she thought that everyone could be if they tried…wouldn't the word be beautiful like that.

"I-It's really nothing special," he said.

"Someone seems flustered". -Yang mead fun of that reaction as Nora nodded as she laughed at her leader.

"My brother, your gift is one of the stars. You have given me back my strength and that may save a life on the morrow. You have also protected Hansus' dignity, whether he knows it or not." The humor faded from Asol's face, replaced with a contemplative frown. "How far does your gift go? Can it heal those who are mortally wounded?"

"I… well, it has in the past," he said. He was wary to say yes in case something went wrong, and there was no bigger fear in him than that he'd fail to heal someone and crush Asol's hope. His Semblance wasn't even healing, at least not really. It was just one of the benefits it provided. "I can't promise anything but if someone is wounded then I can give it a go."

Asol nodded and rose from his cushions, motioning for Jaune to follow. They left the tent, and the security of the fire and celebrating tribespeople. They made their ways instead around the back of the caravans, to one which was slightly larger than the others and was painted a pristine white.

"It is not someone of my tribe but a stranger such as yourself," Asol explained. "We found her several days ago in the ruins and her wounds were dire. They are still dire. My Inessa has done her best to ease the pain but that is all we can do. Though my light does not share it with me I feel her sorrow every night and know that this stranger has little time remaining." Asol's brown eyes bore a pain not his own. "I know you can make no promises and I would demand none of you, but if you can even help a little…"

Jaune nodded. "I'll do my best." He owed them that much, even if they'd feel offended to know it. Even if they hadn't he would have tried, but after all they'd done he owed them more than just an attempt.

(What a useful semblance…maybe I should try to get him to my side before they tell him anything). Cinder wasn't about to let such an interesting power get away, not especially if she considered they would be enemies in the contrary.

"they seriously just pick up anyone and nurse them back to health". Qrow was feeling as his sense of reality had taken a blow really hard. "fuck, where's been this kind of people all my life".

The people around him looked at him weird, his colleagues sighed, already knowing the man while the two criminals blinked as he complained.

"hey Neo, make sure to stay away from this one". The master Thief whispered to her companion, who nodded at him.

Asol ascended the steps first and knocked three times on the wooden door before pushing in, and Jaune followed closely behind him. The interior was far more spartan than the other caravans, with four soft beds covered in white silk and one long surface, meticulously cleaned. A woman stood in the middle of the beds dressed in robes of purest white. Her hair was brown but had streaks of grey in it, and though she was old enough to have wrinkles, she was undeniably attractive. Before her, beneath a white sheet, a pale-faced woman fitfully slept.

"Inessa," Asol said, bowing to his wife. "It is not my intent to interfere, but your other patient has awakened at last."

"Yours is no interference, my shade." Inessa moved forward to cup her husband's cheeks. She kissed the air before him but did no more, and soon turned to face Jaune. "You are well, stranger. It does my heart good to see this with my own eyes."

"You have my thanks, madam," Jaune said, bowing as he'd see the other tribespeople do. "I'll not forget your kindness."

"He is stranger no longer, my light. He is Jaune of Arc and the Del'Ashari. I have named him brother."

"Oh my," Inessa sighed. "Do not tell me you have become a young boy again and blooded yourself of Grimm in the desert? Is that why you are here, to seek healing for your own folly? My love or not I have half a mind to bid you suffer for your idiocy."

"You cut me, my light," Asol said, chuckling quietly. "But no, we are not here to burden you more but perhaps to lessen it." He brought forth his wrist and held it up before her. "My brother was gifted with the power to heal. He has proven this to me, and kindly offered to see if there is ought he can do for the wounded warrior-woman."

Inessa gasped. "Is this true?"

"It is," Jaune said, stepping forward. "I can't promise anything, but my Semblance does allow me to heal." Among other things. "I can try to help her."

She couldn't have gotten out of his way any quicker, and all but threw Asol aside as she pushed him closer to the woman. "Please, yes, any aid that you can offer, brother of my love and life."

All of those who had once loved someone in their lives felt hearth warmed when the married couple conversation happened.

The injured woman on the bed didn't react to any of the noise and it was obvious she'd been unconscious since they found her. The skin about her face was pallid and sunken, the veins visible in places. She might have been beautiful, but it was impossible to tell for how sickly she looked. Her hair was dark, perhaps black, or a very dark brown judging by the color on the tips. It was short enough to reach her shoulders. Beside her bed was an odd weapon, some kind of sword but obviously mecha-shift. She was a huntress.

Trying to recognize the huntress was difficult from Glynda since black hair and a sword were nothing much of a description so she then intended to ask Lancelot. "Who is this woman? do we know her in any way?".

The knight knew what she meant for some people and could tell them that, he debated internally in doing it or not but ended up deciding that delaying it wasn't good. "that woman is not only someone know for people here, but it's also a key individual in the story that develops before us". He then proceeded to make the hologram show an image of the four people, the situation was the same that the tent, with Jaune's hands glowing gold as the white aura of the woman also glowed. "she's known as Summer Rose"

…

The surname gave up a bit of insight of who it might be to Ruby's friends, but the face of pure shock both sisters had, along with their father, uncle and most interestingly Raven was enough to make them keep their questions.

"I-…i-is this how mom…". Yang sputtered some words together that told what had happened with her, she was dead, and Tai knew that. "THAT'S IMPOSIBLE". The image of her deceased wife in the state before she died wasn't something he was prepared to see, not like this not with her looking so sickly, not with him still pained over that.

The man cried once more.

Qrow had dropped his flash at the sight of her old teammate, his hands were shaking, this image being a very grim reminder of his failures. Meanwhile his sister just looked away, showing emotion was a sign of weakness and she made sure to bury those she had for her teammates long ago.

Glynda, who had known Summer back in beacon was thinking about the possibilities and she felt like she figured it out. "he Is back into the past…just too back for us to realize". The death of Summer Rose had happened when their students were still little kids, so that meant Jaune was way back, more than he could think.

"please Jaune…save mom". Ruby was teary from seeing her face once more, she couldn't help it but she had to ask her friend to help her.

Ruby's and Yang's friends came to their comfort while Qrow went give Tai a helping hand too. "get up Tai, we lost her but I'm sure here the kid will save her". It was cruel thinking she lived in alternate timeline? yes, was he glad it happened? Also yes.

"Where did you find her?" he asked.

"Asol was the one to find her. She was collapsed and abandoned in a ruin in the desert." Inessa drew back the blanket, revealing a similar tan outfit to what Jaune wore. The woman's body was bandaged in numerous places. "She had been attacked, and the injuries spoke of Grimm – but also those inflicted by humans. What kind of man or woman would strike down a sister as she fights the Grimm I do not know."

"One with no shame," Asol grunted. "Would that we could find these monsters and avenge her. My spear would like to speak with such people."

"Her infection I have healed," Inessa said, ignoring her husband. "Her ails I have tended and illness I have kept from her, but the wounds she bears are deep. It is not any one ailment which drags her to the ocean's depths, but a lack of strength."

Simply put, she was weak from blood loss, or just didn't have enough aura to survive. Jaune nodded and moved forward. His hands hesitated above the woman's body, and he whispered a silent apology as he touched her without her permission. One hand he placed on her stomach, where a large wound was, the other above her breasts, as close to her heart as he could. He closed his eyes and concentrated.

As much as the Xiao Long-Rose family wanted to be mad at him for touching Summer, they couldn't do nothing but hope he could save her.

The other adults however were more preoccupied with the human aspect behind Summer's death.

One couldn't really sense aura, at least not in the traditional sense. That was why people needed their aura hooked up their scrolls, so that they could see when they were running low. It was the same with him when he was pushing his aura into other people; he couldn't tell how much or how little they had, but he'd learned how to gauge it, mostly from how it interacted with his. A healthy body filled with aura pushed back – not viciously – but more in the sense that the body was full of its own aura and didn't have the capacity for more. It was like trying to compress water.

There was none of that here. What little aura the woman had was fitful and weak, needy as it latched onto his and drew him in, desperately trying to use what was offered with no regard for where it came from. There was a giant void inside of her. It made sense, since her aura must have been drained in whatever fight she'd witnessed, and what little had recovered would have desperately tried to heal her wounds. It would never have been enough, however. Not with the damage she'd taken.

Luckily, I have aura to spare, he thought and he pushed more into her. How long ago had it been since Pyrrha told him he had an unusually large aura? It felt like a lifetime. In this world, it might only have been a week or two. Or maybe it wasn't going to happen for another week. Salem might have sent him back before he joined Beacon, in which case he'd have to do it all again. His attention wavered, and he bit his lip, dispelling such thoughts and focusing on the task at hand.

Roman silently snorted at the last comment. "you have no idea kid". After all, he was listening to what the others had been saying until now.

The woman's eyes snapped open with a gasp. They were wild and black, the pupils dilated so much they practically swallowed all else. She lurched up – or tried to – but was too weak and fell back. Her hands grasped at his wrists, but they were weak, so weak. Her nails tickled his skin and she couldn't keep it up. Her hands fell of their own accord, but he caught one and cradled it firmly. It was clear she still believed herself in danger. The last thing she had seen was someone trying to kill her and she thought he was going to finish the job.

She wanted to live. Good. That desire to keep on fighting meant more than anything else. Even so, he couldn't have her fighting against him so he held her hands in his. "It's okay," he said, and her eyes searched frantically for him. It looked like she couldn't see, but he doubted she was blind. Just exhausted and winded after however many days unconscious. "Can you hear me?" he asked.

"Y-Yes…?" Her voice was timid, or just so brittle it sounded that way. "W-Where…" she faltered, unable to finish the rest.

"You're safe," he said. "I've got you."

"I can… I can feel your aura… it's… warm…" Her eyes became lidded, heavy, and she fell back with a contented sigh. He nodded and smiled gently down at her, hoping that if she could see him she'd understand his intentions.

"I'm using my Semblance to heal you," he explained, hoping the knowledge would calm her. "You're safe now. You can rest. I'll handle everything else."

"H-Heal…?"

"Yes. You're going to live. Sleep. You need your strength."

Sleep was the last thing she wanted, he could tell, but her body needed it and she couldn't fight against it no matter how hard she tried. Her eyelids became heavy and despite trying to blink them. "You promise?" she slurred, and it took him a second to realise what she meant.

"I promise you'll wake up again. You're past the worst of it now."

The woman nodded and slipped off less than five seconds later. This time, however, her chest rose and fell evenly, and her skin had regained some color, even if it was still pale. He felt her aura push back against his and stepped back to admire his handiwork.

She would live. He was sure of it. A rush of fatigue struck him, but it was nothing compared to the elation. She was going to live because of him. It was a wonderful feeling, a heady feeling, and Qrow had warned him about it once, saying that although his Semblance could save lives he should never become addicted to the feeling lest he take pleasure in others being hurt. He'd taken that to heart and remembered it, but there was still a certain satisfaction at a job well done. Some people had Semblances that let them kill Grimm better. His had no such application but he loved it nonetheless.

"She should be fine now," he said, dusting his hands. "She'll need rest – maybe for a day or two – and she'll be hungry when she wakes up. I don't know all that much about healing, but her body will repair itself now. All you need to do is care for her when she wakes up." There was no answer from the two tribesmen. "Asol? Inessa?"

Blake, our actual reader wanted to stop, go to her partner and leader, and stay with them as she knew that each time she spoke of Summer's state, her terrified words or even just how she looked it hurt them, but at the same time Blake understood she had to continue, for them to end this faster.

And Blake wasn't far from the truth, even as they heard she was getting better, the descriptions and her words weren't doing anything good for them.

The family hoped this worked, and when it finally said it did, relief could be an understatement of how they felt.

"thank you…thank you…thank you". Ruby was crying again, thanking her friend for saving her mother for the same fate she ended up living herself, the same feelings were shared by the rest of the family.

(God, how much drama). For his first line and Mercury was already being an ass, undermining the pain of the family as he laid back on his seat. "hey Em, wake me when something interesting happens". When he looked at the girl, he saw her with some form of sad look before she shook her head and changed to a neutral face. "whatever". That's the only answer he received.

Cinder could somewhat agree with Mercury in there not being anything of interest, but she'd rather die than say it.

The two were staring at him.

"Incredible," Inessa whispered. "You are touched by the sun and moon."

"Did I not tell you, my love? He is the man I have named brother."

"It's nothing really," Jaune said, a little embarrassed with the sudden attention.

"Saving this woman's life is nothing, dear brother?" Inessa asked, now referring to him with the same title. "Do you feel so little for her survival? She has dreams, I am sure. Dreams she will now be allowed to pursue because of something you consider so little."

"N-No, it's not that. It's just… it doesn't feel like I deserve so much praise. You did more for her, not just helping her but in healing her, too. You're the one who looked after her and the one who actually knows how to heal. Me… this is just a Semblance. It's…"

"Cheating?" Asol guessed.

Jaune nodded glumly.

Inessa was less sympathetic. "Ah, young men and their egos, may the desert take them all! Why should it matter that your knowledge does not match my own? All that matters here is that this woman will survive. Do not question good fortune, for I am sure she will not."

"I… well…"

"Yours is a gift. I wish I could have it, yes, and perhaps you feel you do not deserve it, but it is a gift that has been given and you would do the world good by using it. Do not cower behind what is deserved or not, young man. Such is for children!"

"truly, our people could learn a lot from this tribe". Ironwood wasn't in line with the Summer situation so much, so he and Winter preferred to continue on hearing.

Oscar too felt something when hearing those words from Inessa. (Is this how your people lived Ozpin?). he surely hoped they did.

He felt a little heat creep up into his cheeks. It had been a while since he'd felt chastened so, and that was probably a sign of how long it was since he'd been around anyone even remotely similar to an authority figure. Ozpin hardly counted, not in Oscar's body, and Qrow was a drunk and a joker at best, a mean taskmaster and harsh mentor at worst.

That surprised some people. No, not that he was embarrassed or reprimanded, but the fact that he called Qrow his mentor. "I trained the kid?". The man himself couldn't believe it either. "must be why he's this good". And then his ego took away his bad mood, well it was his ego and his flash.

She was right, though. Whether he deserved such a Semblance or not he had it and dwelling on that just made him seem egotistical. Semblances didn't have to make sense; they simply were. If Qrow had been around to hear those thoughts the man would have slapped him around the back of the head.

"Stop dwelling on shit you can't change, kid. Just suck it up and move on."

Yep, Qrow was feeling really proud right now as the others dreaded what else had he taught him.

"You're right, Inessa," he said, bowing. "Thank you for your wisdom. Asol, is there anyone else who needs healing in the tribe? I know you said I don't need to pay you back but if I'm a part of your family then the whole tribe is mine as well, right?"

Asol's smile was like the sun rising. "There are some, my brother. Come, let us see how many others will claim you as their own this night."

It was quite a few, as it turned out. Few were as hurt as the woman from earlier and most of the injuries were small, inconsequential things. They might have slowed a warrior down in the night, however, and healing those might have saved lives in the future. The people of the Del'Ashari certainly thought so, for they lavished him with praise and thanks, and as Asol had suggested he ended up with many more brothers and sisters before the night was over.

"You are a man with a large family now, brother," Asol laughed. The bastard hadn't tried to stop anyone, and his laughter had only grown louder as the list grew. "I wish you could stay."

"That would be nice, but you know I can't."

"I do. I see in your eyes the look of a man yearning for more. I recognize it, but not as the wanderlust some of our young experience. It is the look of a man with people to protect." Asol smiled. "These people are precious to you, no?"

"They are. They mean the world to me."

"Then I will not grieve when you leave us. Come, eat, drink, and rest with Inessa and I. We shall tell tales, and perhaps you will tell me of these people who you cherish so. That way on long nights I shall think of you and know that you have found them. Perhaps one day you shall bring them here, and then I shall celebrate all the harder."

Pyrrha, Ren and Nora would have loved that, albeit for different reasons. Nora would have loved the tribe's energy and kindness, Ren their culture – and Pyrrha might simply have appreciated their honesty and the fact that none would judge her for ought but her actions. Team RWBY would come, too, he was sure.

Both teams were glad they meat so much to their friend even if it was in different levels one from another, but they still appreciated it.

"but wait, if mom's still alive doesn't that mean…". Yang didn't need to finish what she was going to say when Glynda confirmed it, he was too far back.

Nora felt disillusioned at that, her fearless leader wouldn't be with them. "we can't go with Jauney to the tribe"

"that's not the real problem Nora…he still doesn't know the date he is in". That was the real problem and Ren knew that his friend wouldn't like it when he learnt that.

"Maybe I will, Asol. Maybe I will."

Even though they'd said there would be no sorrow in the morning there inevitably was. Asol and he traded firm hugs, and Jaune was a little surprised himself at how easily he'd come to like the man. He wasn't normally so trusting. It was a combination of the warm atmosphere and his own hope, he felt. Back in the past and with the potential of saving everyone ahead of him, it was hard to feel down. Inessa gave him a hug too, and a kiss on both cheeks.

"You will take these maps," Asol said, pushing them into Jaune's hands. The tribe had already outfitted him as one of their own, in light and airy cloth that hung loose on his body. He had a turban wrapped about the top of his head as well, with a thin cloth that could be pulled up to cover the lower half of his face. For sandstorms, he'd been told.

All in all, he looked like a real desert-dweller now. He'd need it to reach Vacuo, especially considering the harsh extreme between burning day and freezing night. They'd also outfitted him with dried and cured food, along with two canteens of water, the most they could spare. Out of kindness they had even traded for his battered breastplate; the metal being too heavy to carry through the desert. He knew they'd given him a good deal on that, trading him spices that he could sell in any city. It was lighter than armor, anyway.

"Remember to follow the stars," Asol told him. "They will guide you to the city of sand and stone. We will travel on to Shade Academy, and if the stars wish it we will cross again one day. I will pray every night that it is so."

"Myself as well, Asol. I'm lucky to have met you and Inessa both."

"We as well. Go now, go and find those whose light shines in your eyes. I am sure you will find them, and if I have seen anything of the strength of your spirit, I know you will protect them."

The emotional goodbye was pretty in the eyes of most, they were stranger no more than a day ago, but the man named Asol had already left an impression on Jaune and some of the audience.

Ruby had taken a liking to Asol, the man was wise, kind and treated her friend very good, he also tried to save her mom's life and even if he didn't succeed here she would thank him either way.

Both Neo and Roman had stayed behind in all of this, the whole chapter left clues as to when the Blonde was placed in time and apart from that there wasn't anything of interest of them.

Cinder's and Raven's groups held similar opinions on the futility of this chapter, not caring about that tribe and the kid.

It was as good a cue as any. With the tribespeople waving him on he turned to leave, sparing one last nod for Asol and Inessa as he did. The desert before him was vast and unforgiving; an ocean of sand whose waves crested up toward the horizon as far as the eye could see. With the pale blue sky above and the sun beating down on him it should have been a terrifying prospect.

Instead, he bathed in it – a truly honest smile slipping across his face. This was a world in which his friends still lived. It was a world where things hadn't gone to shit. Not yet. With all of that in mind, how could he do anything but smile? Jaune's first step took him from the camp and into the desert.

"Next step, Vacuo."

/-/

The distortion on the screen happened once again, showing now the word -Vacuo-.

Sun got exited for a second, wanting to see his city again.

Those who hadn't seen said city were curious as to how it was and especially in a different time.

The sun that beat down on Vacuo seared into both his eyes and mouth, leaving his throat parched and painfully dry. Pulling down the cloth drawn over his face he stared at the city before him and wondered if it were yet another heat-induced mirage. His breath caught as he fumbled for the water canteen and brought it up, drinking a little and splashing some across his face. The image held. It was real.

Jaune Arc let out a long sigh and pushed forwards with renewed vigor, "Finally."

Never let it be said that he wasn't a determined person. Pyrrha had recognized that first, bless her, and everyone else had come to realize it in time. When he put his mind to something, like getting into a school he had no right to be in, he'd find a way no matter what, and stick with it through thick and thin. Sometimes those methods weren't entirely honorable, such as when he forged his transcripts, but Qrow had once told him that just showed a different kind of thinking, a flexible kind.

Pyrrha smiled and recognized that, she chose to believe in her leader's determination and now it was clear she was right. "Jaune won't stop, I'm sure of that". And that was a sentiment her team shared.

Weis however got the not so likable piece of information. "Arc Faked his transcripts?!". Such action was outrageous thinking that from her perspective, especially since it explained the dork's lack of combat ability.

"how could that be possible?, I'm sure Oz would have noticed". Ironwood also had his fair share of questions.

Lancelot got in in the discussion before it was too late, already that this would develop into an argument he didn't want them having. "before anything I'll inform you that the headmaster knew from the beginning that they were fake and yet he was accepted nonetheless".

It was a sour feeling for some of them with how Ozpins simply let him in without much fuss and training but hearing of this future kind of showed that he was right to do so.

Sadly Weis was too prideful to let it go so easily. "fine, but when we're back in beacon I'm going to make sure that idiot understands what he did". Ruby could already feel bad for his friend.

It was the same here with his decision to contact Beacon. He had no idea how far back he'd been sent, after all. A few months before the fateful mission, or maybe even as far back as the start of the school year – there was simply no way to tell. Beacon was the first point of call, but he couldn't afford to rush into it unprepared.

Asol had said the CCT in Vacuo still stood. If the one in Vale didn't then the school would surely have been destroyed already, and that would be proof enough of the date. He could make his way to Mistral and catch his friends there. If the CCT did stand, then it meant he was back before Pyrrha had fallen, in which case all bets were off. He was getting to Vale and he was stopping that tragedy.

But getting from the Del'Ashari to Vacuo?

Not easy, it turned out.

The Vacuan desert was a sight to behold; one best appreciated from the outskirts, preferably under an umbrella in a resort with a cool drink in the hand and a moment to say "Ah, I'm glad I don't have to walk across that!" Sadly, he'd gotten a first-hand experience. In the week's travel he'd undertaken it was all just a big mass of sand. There was sand beneath you, sand above, sand whipped into your face and sand in every possible crevice and crease in skin and clothing. For that he was thankful Asol had saw fit to better equip him for it all. He'd have almost certainly died if he wore his hoodie and armor.

"Wait…¡this is a week after!?". Nora screamed from the top of her lungs. "we didn't even know it was a time skip". The nasty eye she gave the knight was simply ignored by him.

Qrow raised his flash in the air. "I know what it feels like kid and I hope to never go back to that shit again". He would never admit it, but the kid was growing on him.

But here he was, after a week or more on the road (or the sand). He'd finally reached Vacuo. He ran a finger over the light stubble that had grown across his chin, the bristles stiff and firm but still an annoying shade of pale yellow. Rough it might have been but rugged it was not and Ruby often laughed about how cute it looked, while Nora would rub her hands on it and coo at the prickly feeling against her palm. It wasn't exactly as much a winner with the ladies as Qrow's.

The description of events got out a laugh out of the students while Qrow's ego was once again being boosted by Jaune. "I'm definitively finding the kid once we go back".

What they'd think of him now, not only with the beard but also clear signs of wear, tear and exhaustion, he didn't know. Maybe he'd ask them. He looked older than his twenty years. Salem had said he'd retain his self and such when he came back, which meant he'd be older than everyone else – an awkward but not uncomfortable situation. At least I'm not thirty or more. I can still pass for seventeen if I clean up. It's not like anyone can tell the difference in three years.

Or was he twenty-one now? It was hard to remember sometimes. Birthdays had come and gone on their journey, with only a few celebrated by drinks and simple gifts when they had the chance. They rarely did. Kind words and hugs had become their own currency. He'd loved them nonetheless.

"I'll figure out how old I am when I reach Beacon," he mumbled, nodding to himself.

Hearing the plan he had and knowing he wouldn't get a very pleasant surprised when he learns the truth killed somewhat the mood Jaune's chin had made.

Glynda also doubted he could pass for a seventeen-year-old.

Such plans had kept his spirits up as he made the arduous journey, and against all odds they'd been enough. More than enough, even. He felt more alive than he had for months and even when sand Grimm had attacked, he'd smiled as he fought them back and claimed his prize at a chance to refill his canteen at an oasis. He was in the middle of the desert a thousand miles or more away from home and he couldn't stop smiling.

How could he when everyone was still alive?

"I've got to hold it together," he mumbled. His own voice had been his only company for a week now. "No good breaking down when I'm right here."

Two men stood on either side of a small gate beside the larger one, which was firmly shut. Pedestrians trailed in and out of the other entrance, however, and he joined the queue, waiting for someone to question him. No one did, and he was waved inside with the rest, asked for not so much as a single piece of identification.

I'd always heard Vacuo was lax, but this is a bit much, he thought. Still, it works to my advantage. He'd never been to Vacuo, but Sun had told him a few things about it on their trips together and that was enough to get a vague, if biased, idea. It looked like the faunus hadn't pulled any punches. Vacuo was a hot place with a lot of sand and little else, he'd said.

Sun agreed with his counterpart's explanation, Neptune however could only look at his friends like he was looking to an idiot.

"looks like Jaune and I get pretty well in the future". Sun was proud of that, he knew Jaune would make for a good friend and seeing that they shared a lot together was reassuring.

Neptune could only hope that the other blonde didn't get dragged to his friend's problems. "Just don't take him to steal food".

Ruby and Yang could still remember their first encounter and how many problems that got them. (at least Blake and Weis get along better now).

Said cat faunus also remembered that day…yeah, it wasn't pretty.

The gate led into a large courtyard with a fountain in the center that lazily spat water into a pool that several young children crowded around, dashing it across their faces. People in loose robes and light clothing moved to and fro, some with parasols to cover themselves not from the rain but from the burning sun. Down one street he could see numerous stalls set up with richly colored cloth overhanging their wares, and the crowds there were thick. Even from such a distance he could hear the hum of conversation, haggling, and arguing. It was a busy day with not a shred of horror or fear to be seen. That was another point in favor of Beacon still being in one piece and Jaune felt his excitement mount.

But before he could really find out, let alone book a flight there, he had to deal with the issue of lien. His resources were pretty meagre, and while Asol had been generous in spirit and food there hadn't been much lien, especially not to give to a stranger. He had his sword and shield-sheathe, but other than that only his scroll and a small amount of lien he'd had on him before his trip to the past.

He didn't have enough to book transport back to Vale, which meant he'd either have to walk, work for his money, or sneak his way on board.

The first two were out of the question, of course. He didn't have time to waste. Sneaking on might be difficult as well. "I guess I'll see if I can't sell something." He looked down to Crocea Mors and dismissed that idea. He did have the gifts from Asol, however, some of which were for the express purpose of trading, like the spices in his pouch. On top of that, he had his scroll.

Come to think of it this is a Beacon scroll, he thought, looking down at the thing. If I show up with this, it'll tell Ozpin I was in Vacuo. Hell, it might even show I was in the Grimlands. That was a conversation he didn't need. In fact, since it had been sent back with him there was a chance it might contain messages that couldn't possibly have been sent, or ones dated from the future.

Plus, if he'd gone back to before Beacon started, he'd only look suspicious for owning one. It would be better to wipe the whole thing and sell it. If anyone asked, he could just say it had broken or something. It paid to have a reputation, deserved or not, as a bit of a klutz.

"But first," he said, looking up to the distinctive tower that poked its way over the city. It was covered in aerials and antennae, many of which were rusted, but a bright green light flickered on and off atop it, signaling its use.

He'd best tell the others he was okay.

Glynda agreed with Jaune, the suspicion the scroll could give him was a problem he couldn't really deal with and at the same time it was worth some money, maybe even more considering he's in the past.

"I'm guessing this is when he finds that he isn't in our time". Tai also pointed out as this was the callout he needed to change his plans.

Ironwood nodded. "it's better that happens as soon as possible.

/-/

There was another distortion on the screen, yet it still retained the same information as before.

Raven was starting to get bored, nothing of real interest apart from this that were already gotten were happening, and for a moment she considered doing the same as the silver haired kid that had gone to sleep.

"You have reached Beacon Academy, Vale. We regret to inform you that no one is available to take your call. The Academy will re-open and resume its regular hours on the eighth of-"

The automated message was cut off as he ended the call. The screen he was using flickered back onto its ready mode, inviting him to type in a new number and also providing a list of other options like popular tourist locations and a taxi service. Two partitions on either side of his booth prevented others from seeing what he was doing, but the CCT was mostly empty and those people that were already there were deep in their own international calls. Cameras watched it all and a few guards loitered near the door, but no one was particularly on guard; not in the middle of the day.

Still, the call had revealed more than it might have seemed. Beacon was closed – but not destroyed, otherwise that was a little pedantic of Miss Goodwitch to leave such a recording. That meant he'd been sent back before the year started, probably before he'd even been accepted into Beacon.

He wasn't sure if that should have upset him or not, but it didn't. Sure, it meant a lot of the things they'd all been through together wouldn't have happened, but it also gave him more time to make a difference. He could always make new memories with his friends.

And best of all it meant Pyrrha was still alive.

The thought made his fingers tingle and his eyes itch. Should I try and call them? His finger hovered over the dial. He could call Nora, Ren or Pyrrha – but they wouldn't know him. It might just confuse them, not to mention it might make Pyrrha think he was some kind of stalker. But it would let him see her face again, if only for a second. Every instinct in his body told him it was a bad idea, every single one. But he couldn't stop himself. He needed to see her. He needed to make sure for himself that she was okay.

Hungrily, before he could think better of it, he dialled her number. His pace became quicker and more frantic as he did. He'd just make a call, see her, and then claim it was a wrong number. She'd never know the truth. She never had to. It was just so he knew; so that he could finally put it to rest and focus on the future.

"that was dumb". Roman gladly said. "he just thought that what they lived together didn't happen and the kid went on and called anyway, is he really the one that'll save them".

As angry as Glynda wanted to be at the comment, she also had to agree, it was not a very bright move.

"The number you have called is not in operation."

His throat caught. His heart skipped a beat.

"Wait, she's not at Beacon yet…"

An explosive sigh escaped him, followed by a relieved and slightly strained laugh. Gods, he'd been close to having a full-blown panic attack, and when the answer to the problem was so damn obvious. Pyrrha's number, the one he'd called, didn't exist yet. Pyrrha had thrown away her old scroll when she'd reached Beacon, as they all had. Since she didn't have her new scroll he didn't know her number and this one wouldn't work until the school year began. I'm such an idiot, he thought, shaking his head.

He couldn't help it. He was too excited, too eager. He'd need to be careful about that since his getting on a team with Pyrrha depended on him not coming across like he knew her. It would be hard, ridiculously hard, but he needed to find her, ignore her, and flirt with Weiss. After that he could open up and make her the friend she'd always been, but not before. He couldn't afford to mess up and lose her as a partner. Not over something so stupid.

"he better calm down, that kind of energy can be detrimental to a mission". The general words were hard but true although Qrow had something to say. "but can you really blame him Jimmy, after everything that happened?"

And he couldn't bring himself to do so, the end of the world was probably a very traumatic experience.

The mention of the events they lived made some of them feel nostalgic.

That would be some serious irony, he thought. Wanting to be on Pyrrha's team but messing it up because I ended up looking like the exact thing she wants to avoid. The irony would only be thicker if it was Weiss who he got partnered with. He laughed at it, even as he made a mental note not to let it happen.

"HEY". The mentioned girl felt somewhat offended at that.

"I guess I'll just have to head to Vale and carry on from there," he said, pushing the metallic stool back. The earlier frustration he'd felt had vanished, replaced with joy at the knowledge that all his friends – all of them – were not only alive, but that he could go back through Beacon and spend time with each of them. "Maybe I won't need to trick my way in this time. That might make things easier. I'm not sure if Cardin blackmailing me is something I really want to repeat." It had helped him grow a pair and open up to Pyrrha but that was kind of a non-issue now. "Heh, maybe I can even return Pyrrha's feelings a little earlier this time."

There were so many opportunities open to him. Fixing the future was just one of those. Spending more time with all his friends was another.

The terminal reminded him he had credit left from the lien he'd entered but there was no one to call. His family lived in Ansel, far away from a CCT, so he let it be. Someone else could enjoy the windfall. His best bet was to sell his scroll, find an airship to Vale, then hunker down and apply to join Beacon when the term started. From there he could let things run on as normal but influence events away from the future that awaited them. Maybe Cinder could be stopped. Pyrrha would definitely be saved, at the very least, but if Beacon didn't fall then they'd have longer to prepare for Salem.

I'll figure out the specifics later, he thought. One step at a time and the first step was to reach Vale and get accepted into Beacon. The rest could be worked out from there.

Ruby cheered. "TO VALE". Their friend may be too old for them now, but she still wanted to have him close to younger her, especially considering how grateful she felt towards him.

Others cheered alongside her.

/-/

"This model is so unique…" the man behind the counter stared at the device in something akin to awe. He was an overweight man dressed in bright colors, stripes of yellow and crimson. "I have never seen anything of the like before. Where did you say you bought this?"

"Vale," Jaune said, frowning just a little. The man's reaction was a little out of place, especially his awe. While he was used to people like this trying to trick you into a bad deal they normally did it by acting like the thing you were trying to sell wasn't worth much.

"It must be a prototype model," the man replied, practically salivating. "Some of these features, and the design, ah, it is so lightweight! Vale, you say? Who gave you this?"

He couldn't say Ozpin or Beacon. "Someone I know."

"Your friend must have connections with all the right people. This is incredible. I'd expect something like this, well, not even the major manufacturers have released something so advanced."

"Well, he did have a lot of connections." More than any one man ought to have had, but then there'd always been something other-worldly about Ozpin, even before he took over the body of a child and revealed himself as some kind of ancient spirit-parasite.

He'd always acted like a man who knew too much; someone who could figure out your every secret just by looking at you. It wouldn't have surprised him in the slightest if Ozpin had given them advanced scrolls. Maybe this was just a sign and the scrolls wouldn't officially be released for a few months, when Beacon started.

The idea of technology from decades in the future was something not to be taken lightly, the possibility of progress made it abundantly clear as to why the man was so captivated.

Ironwood thought that this might be some form of defining factor in that world's future if the technology could advance more thanks to a little scroll from the future…that's how the butterfly effect works after all.

"Hey isn't that Rashem". Sun knew the guy, he was a merchant that tried to start off a big tech company that failed. "he was all over the news in Vacuo back in the day, I'm pretty sure he left after his failure".

Even his partner didn't know what he was talking about, as such they left him, but also took his words into consideration.

"Is it worth anything, then?" Jaune asked.

"Is it-¿ Young sir, this is worth good money indeed. I may be able to reverse engineer this and steal the technology, bringing it to market before the original company can ever hope to!" The man cackled, and Jaune had a moment to wonder if this might be one of those time paradoxes the old movies had mention. If so it would only change the profit lines of a few companies, though.

"How much are you willing to offer for it?"

"How much do you want?"

Oh Gods, not this game. He knew it well enough from being asked to buy supplies for Ruby, Qrow, and the others on their journey. The shopkeeper would leave the bargaining in your hands, and you'd pretty much always mess up and state a figure too low. A year or two ago he might have started to sweat and given in but frugal funds and Qrow's incessant badgering had beaten that out of him.

"Well, I could always go and see the guy down the road…" he began.

"No, no, no! Do not be hasty!" The man caved instantly, waving one hand. The other clutched the scroll, as if prepared to give his life for it. "I am not a man who would see you cheated, I promise. I am a man of honor and integrity."

So said every merchant ever. "I'm not hearing a value…"

"Fifteen thousand lien!"

Jaune almost fainted then and there. Fifteen thousand? One of those scrolls cost – or would cost – maybe nine hundred in the shops, though even then most people bought it on some kind of package where they normally paid a little bit each month and a larger deposit. Fifteen thousand for one was ridiculous. It was far more than what he needed.

But he hadn't been crash-course trained by Qrow Branwen for nothing. "Twenty-thousand."

"Seventeen, and that is all the lien I have in Vacuo. I promise you this now."

"Deal." Jaune held out a hand.

To his shock, the man actually shook it.

The back and forward with those amounts of money over a single scroll left the thieves in the audience silenced for a second.

Emerald especially was hearing the amounts and having daydreaming about having that. Both Roman and Neo had stolen more than that so it wasn't so impressive.

Tai was questioning if they honestly should let Qrow meet the kid. "he learned to well from him…I just hope he doesn't end up an alcoholic". The man himself felt kind of offended at Tai's doubts of him. "Oi, I make a pretty good mentor alright".

Both of his nieces looked away awkwardly, as much he taught Ruby about a scythe, he was still an 'ok' teacher at best.

"leaving all the negotiations to Vomit boy…seems fair enough to me". Yang didn't oppose to that, better him than her and that was a shared sentiment with Nora.

Both Pyrrha and Ren also thought it was a good idea, but because they trusted Jaune, with Weis being the only one not agreeing, after all she supposedly had an education on trading and economics but wasn't let to manage their supplies.

In the end the only thing they knew it's that Jaune could set price and that was better for him.

"You will not regret this, and I shall not forget it," he said, lifting up a tray and began to stack out lien upon the table, all of it in hard cash. "One day you shall hear the name `Rashem` and remember that you helped him to greatness. Come to me then and I shall give you our greatest scroll!"

"Y-Yeah sure." He took the money, counted it out, and was again surprised to find it was right on the money. He doubted Rashem, if that was his name, would have any hope of manufacturing this before the original company in Vale did, but that wasn't really his business.

Hopefully the man wouldn't be in too much financial difficulty over this. Sorry, Rashem, but the fate of all of Remnant is kind of running on me getting to Vale.

It took a few minutes for the lien to be collected. Jaune stashed it safely under his robes, then collected a little separate and put it on a pouch on the outside, aware of the vast amount of lien that had just exchanged hands and the all-too-interested expressions of those nearby. Some of the burlier men shifted a little, revealing the hilts of weapons.

Jaune met their stares head on, blue eyes hard as ice. They backed down. They'd find easier prey to hassle, or they might not, in which case they'd learn the errors of their ways. He wasn't the strongest huntsman around, not even close, but he could hold his own. More than anything he'd developed a strong tolerance for pain, almost inevitable when everyone you knew could – and regularly did – kick your ass in training. Some thugs used to dealing with harmless civilians wouldn't find him so easy.

"yeah beat their asses fearless leather". They needed to learn not to mess with her leader, the good or the bad way.

The deal made, and the lien transferred Jaune stepped back into the crowds, mindful of those around him and all too aware of the one that followed behind. It was not Rashem and he honestly doubted the man had sent anyone after him. He didn't look like a crooked merchant. Honestly, he looked too excited about his purchase to care for the cost.

This felt too clumsy to be a proper shakedown. A good mugger could usually read and identify a mark and he surely wasn't one in his desert warrior robes and with a sword at his side. Anyone good enough not to care about those things wouldn't be sensed so easily.

That meant he was dealing with an amateur, or someone so confident as to not care for stealth. Even if it was an amateur, that wasn't necessarily a better thing. Good thieves would just try and rob you. Amateurish thieves might panic and stick a knife in your side. Pyrrha had warned them about that. Not thieves, specifically, but fighters who relied on random attacks and wild swings and how they could be just as dangerous as a professional opponent if you didn't take them seriously.

The thieves in the room found themselves nodding, they were professionals not like those amateurs the blonde was referring too.

"It's good that the kid knows the quality". The statement was random for the rest, but both Neo and Emerald puffed their chest.

Their pride as good thieves told them so.

Right now, with his friends on the line, he wasn't willing to leave anything to chance. He ducked into an alleyway and followed it down to the next bend, ducking around the corner. The pitter-patter of feet followed, picking up pace so as to not lose him. Jaune waited until it was close, until it crested the corner itself, before he lashed out.

His fist struck nothing, soaring much higher above his aggressor than he'd expected. The person yelped in fright but took advantage of the moment to lunge in for the pouch on the outside of his robes.

It was huntsman speed alone that enabled him to recover and catch the thief by the wrist, dragging the thief back against him so he could catch them by the shoulder and spin them around. His aura protected him from the boot that was driven into his shin. Even if it hadn't, he doubted it would have done much. It was just a child. He'd been followed and mugged by someone who was probably seven or eight at most.

Jaune's paranoia slowly ebbed away, the adrenaline fading. He held the young boy out a little further from him, using his longer arms to prevent the boy's feet from reaching him. He was a faunus of some kind judging from the tail, and the hair was the same shade as his own. He was ragged and thin, wearing clothes that barely fit him. They were probably stolen or scavenged. He was no threat at all and probably wasn't observant enough to realize how dangerous robbing a huntsman was.

I really need to stop reacting to every little thing like it's a world-ending enemy. I'm going to stab someone at this rate. Jaune sighed and shook his head. Instincts like these weren't going to let him settle into Beacon easily. He really needed to calm down.

Tai laughed awkwardly. "yeah, he might as well stab someone with his paranoia". Glynda didn't like how much actually the paranoia was both mentioned and was affecting him. "He's barely beginning to heal from that experience, and I hope Mr. Arc gets the help he needs to do so correctly".

The students were more worried about the kid but then again, it was not like Jaune would hurt him...consciously.

"Let go!" the thief yelled, kicking his feet. "Let go! I stole it fair and square. It's mine now!"

Weis looked at Blake, as if she had just read something stupid. "is he serious?". The Cat faunus only nodded.

But first he had to deal with this little thing. Jaune sighed and hoisted the figure up, so that they were eye to eye, if a little far apart – safety so that the little thing didn't plant a foot in his face. "I'm really not sure that's how theft works."

The thief stared at him with bright blue eyes. "Well why not? Just give me the lien and I'll go. That way we're both happy. I don't want to have to rough you up, old man."

"Old man?" Even before the time travel he'd hardly been old enough to be called a young adult, let alone elderly. He couldn't help but feel a little pity for the boy, though. He was thin and wiry in a way that didn't look entirely healthy. So many Grimm around that some kids always end up orphaned. People try to help but what can you do? There's too much cruelty in the world.

"He is an old man". Joked Yang as he looked to her father. "who knows, maybe one day you'll share a couple of beers together".

Said father thought about it and smiled honestly. "well, other me does owe him more than that from saving Summer". Way more than that in his opinion.

The mention of orphaned kids hit Nora, Ren, and Sun hard, the former two more as they didn't like to be reminded of that and weren't as laid back about it as the Monkey boy.

(Our world is cruel, and so is the people in it kid). Qrow kept those thoughts to himself, there had already been enough shit for one chapter in his opinion

He released the boy's wrist and letting him take a step back. He didn't run and in fact eyed Jaune's pouch again. It was obvious he was still looking for a chance to snatch it. Talk about tenacious.

"What would you do with the lien, anyway?"

The boy mumbled something under his breath.

"What was that?"

"I'd buy food," the boy repeated, embarrassed. "The orphanage doesn't always have enough and my friends are hungry." His eyes flashed, and he suddenly became defensive. "What's it to you, human? I have to eat too, you know. You don't know what it's like!"

Sun froze for a second, he knew this story and he knew that not many in the streets would do that for others…he both wanted and didn't to be right that moment.

Unaware to that, Pyrrha complimented the kid. "even in dire situations caring for others, he's a good kid". Both Nora and Ren looked at each other…they were always together, and it would stay like that…but not together-together, not yet.

"as much I wouldn't encourage stealing it is at least a good thing that he does it not only for himself". Theft was still something she didn't like, but after arriving beacon Weis understood that she couldn't just judge as black and white.

He didn't. Through all the terrible things he'd been through, being homeless had never technically been one of them. Even when he was hungry with Ruby, Ren and Nora, it was a case of them all being hungry and sharing what they had. He might have lost everything, but he was all too aware that someone people never had anything to start with.

The boy was startled when Jaune unhooked the pouch and threw it at him. He was so shocked that it bounced off his little chest and fell to the floor with a clink. "There's a thousand lien in there," he said. "Try to make it last, and don't let anyone know you have it. Someone might try and take it off you."

"I-I don't need you to tell me that," the boy spluttered. He fell to his knees and picked up the pouch. He held it to his chest, obviously afraid the kind stranger might change his mind and demand it back. The pouch was bulging, and in the boy's tiny hands it only made it more obvious how skinny he was. "The big kids won't get it off me, old man. I need this too much. A-And maybe you're not too bad," he admitted. "For a human."

giving that kind of money to a random stray kid wasn't something many would do…actually, it's something most wouldn't do, so seeing the blonde do it gave a certain girl some hope.

Team _NPR knew this was just their leader being himself, not the man he would become but the one he always was.

(Maybe he could…no, bad Emerald, you won't meet Cinder if you get out the streets). Saving her from more years in the streets would have made her feel grateful…but she wasn't willing to leave her mistress side, so she hoped it didn't happen...

"the kid is racist apparently". Roman pointed out while the others made sure to not pay him any mind.

"and calls Jaune an old man". Tai reminded, age got everyone at some point, even if the kid was still twenty-one. "next thing we know it's that he'll be complaining about how his times were more difficult".

"well Tai, he lived in the end of the world, I'm pretty sure he can say it and be right". Tai opened his mouth to answer back the drunken Qrow, but found that he was indeed right.

"Yeah, well, maybe you'll consider a different way of getting it in the future. You're not exactly cut out for being a pickpocket."

"What do you mean!?" The kid somehow managed to look offended, puffing his little chest out in a way that might have been intimidating if he was twice as tall and twice as wide. "I'm the best damn thief around!"

It was oddly familiar. Jaune's eyes narrowed but he shook his head against it. "A good thief wouldn't have been caught," he pointed out.

"Erk!"

Roman actually grabbed his hat and looked before him. "low blow kid, but I respect that". As much as he liked a show, the best of thieves always worked without being caught.

"of course you would say something like that". And each time Glynda regretted being seated beside him.

Jaune smiled and shook his head. A thousand lien wasn't a big deal for him, not at the moment, and if it would help this young boy find a better life, or at least eat for a few months, then it was money well spent.

"What's your name?" Jaune asked.

"Who's asking?"

"Jaune," he said. "You might as well tell me yours. How else am I going to remember the `master thief` of Vacuo?" He went with flattery, knowing all too well the effect it had on him as a kid. True to form this one stood a little taller.

Blake stuttered, having the book allowed her to read before speaking, so seeing what was coming made her stop a few seconds and left the rest to wonder what she read.

"Damn right, old man. I'm the greatest pickpocket in all of Vacuo." He slapped a fist against his chest and laughed. "You'll remember the day you were robbed by Sun Wukong!"

"WHAAATTT!". The collective shouts of all students woke mercury up, throwing him to the floor of the library.

"ack, fuck". Was all he could brilliantly say.

"bro what the fuck". Neptune let his tongue work faster than his brain as he processed the new information. "ok…so he just found a small Sun, just randomly?"

His friend laughed at that, having figured out that it was him. "what are the odds right?".

Jaune's breath caught. "W-What did you say your name was?"

"I guess this is how he finds out". It seemed like they got that answer before they expected.

The boy smiled toothily, and that smile was one he would have remembered any day. It was the smile of one of his closest friends. It was now on the face of someone who couldn't have been more than seven years of age.

"The name's Sun. Sun Wukong."

And so the book fell back on Lancelot hands as he looked over to somewhere. "we'll leave it here and save some of their thoughts on that for the next time shall we".

And everything fades to black.

-END-

Soo, how does it look?

Was it enjoyable to read?

Does it have enough dialogue?

Let me know your thoughts and I shall ponder over them, and till next time

Thanks for reading.

-Mystic-