Welcome to the finale of The Defenders of Remnant! This has been a long time coming, and the story has changed and developed a lot since I first started it. It's been a hell of a time. Now, while this is the finale, this is NOT the final chapter. After this, there will be an "Epilogues" chapter checking in one more time with certain stars from this story, wrapping up some of their journeys and setting them up for what comes next.
I am also requesting questions, concerns and criticisms of the rest of the story! Send them in reviews or PM's, and the final entry of the story will be a QnA from any and all readers who participate. I can't thank everyone enough for the support this story has received over the past year, and I look forward to the future of what this brings.
The Defenders of Remnant
Series Finale
Chapter 46: Time to Say Goodbye
Ruby's head ached as she came into consciousness. Her ears were filled with a harsh ringing and her entire body felt heavy, weak. It felt like it took hours for her eyelids to finally open. Her senses were groggy too. She realized she was in a bed, her bed back in her house in Patch, dressed in her pajamas. She was in her room, and asleep in a chair at the foot of her bed was her father, Taiyang. She forced herself to sit up and let out a weak groan. Her father's head peaked up immediately, and he rushed to her bedside. "Ruby! You're awake!"
"Ugh… what happened?" She asked.
Taiyang sighed in relief at his daughter's well being. "Your Uncle Qrow found you, unconscious. He got you out of there though, he brought you home safe." Ruby pondered for a moment before some of the memories started coming back to her. "I'm just glad to have my girls back at home."
"What happened to the school? And Vale! Were they able to clear out the Grimm?" Ruby asked.
"Things at Vale are under control. All the Grimm have been cleared out, including the giant one. You did a number on it, then that guy with the hammer finished it off," Tai answered.
"I did… what?"
"Hm?"
"You said I did a number on it. What do you mean?" Ruby asked.
"I… look, that's not important right now, we can talk about it later. Things are just… a bit chaotic. Especially in this house."
"Things are always chaotic," Qrow chimed in as he appeared in the bedroom doorway. The other two looked in that direction to see Qrow chugging his flask. He nearly emptied it in one go before pulling the liquor away from his lips. "Mind if we have a minute?"
"What, I can't stay here?" Tai questioned.
"Tai. Please," Qrow requested. Tai glared at his former brother-in-law, but still stood up from his kneeling position by the bed. He sighed then kissed his daughter's forehead.
"I'm glad you're alright. I'll go make everyone some tea." he said to Ruby before heading through the door, glaring at Qrow on his way through. Qrow didn't give a reply. He just grabbed a chair, pulled it up next to Ruby's bed, and grunted as he dropped down into it.
"So, how ya feelin'?" He asked.
"Um, uh.. I kind of hurt… all over," Ruby replied.
Qrow chuckled. "That makes sense, after what you did."
"You guys keep saying that, that I did something. What are you talking about?" Ruby questioned.
Qrow sat up and leaned forward in his chair, hands resting on his knees. "What's the last thing you remember?"
Ruby looked down from her Uncle and tried to sift through the static her memory was right now. "I ran up the side of the tower… and when I got to the top, I…" She suddenly gasped and her eyes welled with tears instantly. "Peter! Is he…?" She looked back up at Qrow, and he smirked.
"He's alright. Messed up pretty bad, but alive. Yang gave up her room so he could rest until he wakes up too," Qrow answered. "He's either really tough, or really lucky. Whatever it is, seems like he'll pull through."
A wave of relief passed over Ruby, and her tears of sorrow quickly changed to tears of joy. "Thank god…" She muttered to herself.
"What else do you remember?" Qrow asked.
"I… I got to the top… And I saw Peter. And Cinder. And then it was all white."
"Anything else?"
"I remember… my head hurting…"
"The night you met Ozpin, what was the first thing he said to you?" Qrow asked.
Ruby seemed confused by the question, and tried to think, to remember. "I-I… I don't know… I think it was something about-"
"Silver eyes," Qrow finished for her. "That's an extremely rare trait."
"So?" Ruby shrugged.
"You're special, Ruby, and not in the 'daddy loves his special angel' kinda way. You're special the same way your mom was. Remnant's full of legends and stories, some of 'em true, some made up, but there's one Oz told me from a very long time ago. Back before Huntsmen, before kingdoms, it was said that those born with silver eyes were destined to lead the life of a warrior. You see, the creatures of Grimm, the most fearsome monsters mankind had ever encountered, were afraid of those silver-eyed warriors. They were the best of the best. It was said that even a single look from one of these fighters could strike a Grimm down. Heh, it's a ridiculous story."
"But… you think that I might be…?"
Qrow chuckled a bit. "Well, that giant monster was frozen right next to Beacon Tower, till those Avengers made sure it was gone for good, and you're here, safe in bed." Qrow then stood up and walked towards the window, glancing out into the beautiful forest of Patch.
"Wait… how did you know what Ozpin said to me? The night we met?" Ruby asked.
"All those missions I go on, all the times I'm away in some far off place, it's been for Ozpin, but he's missing now. Something's been set in motion, and with Oz gone, I'll have to pick up where he left off. The CCT Tower was saved, so now the whole world knows about the attack and who did it. We minimized casualties and managed to clear all the Grimm from the city. But Oz is still gone, and we don't know what could come our way next."
"Then what can I do?" Ruby asked. "If I'm so special, then I can help, right?" She smiled, already ready to get back to work saving the world.
"You really wanna help? Get some rest. You're in no condition to go anywhere right now, and neither is Peter. Until you've both recovered, neither of you are leaving this homestead. And we have time to kill. There's no trail to follow our enemies. I think we foiled enough of their plans to put them on the backstep. So right now, you just take it easy. Hope it's not too much to ask of a pip-squeak like you. Catch ya later, kiddo," Qrow winked before heading for the door.
"Wait! Dad mentioned chaos in the house, and making tea for 'everyone'. Who else is here?" Ruby asked.
Qrow chuckled again. "When you do have the strength, you might wanna come out and see everybody. They've waited patiently for a few days." Qrow then left, leaving Ruby alone in her room. She looked after her uncle curiously, then slowly got to her feet and weakly hobbled out of her room out into the hall.
To her left were the other bedrooms, and her right led to the living room, where she heard talking and even a little laughter. Part of her was still curious who was here, but instead she went to her left down to Yang's room. She slowly and quietly opened the door to look in on Peter. He was laid flat in Yang's bed, his eyes closed and his breathing slow and even. He seemed at peace. He let out a small sigh and gently closed the door. She should leave him alone. She then made her way over towards the living room and peeked around the corner.
Sitting in the living room were Weiss, Blake, Ren and Danny, each with a cup of tea in their hands as they talked. She was surprised to see everyone here, at her home. She stepped out from the corner and gave a small wave. "Hey, guys," She meekly greeted. Weiss and Blake perked up and shot up from their seats.
"Ruby!" They exclaimed in unison. Before a moment passed, both of her teammates had thrown their arms around her, and she gratefully returned their embrace.
"It's good to see you guys," Ruby smiled wide.
"It's good to see you too," Blake replied with her own smile. As soon as her teammates let go, she received similar welcomes from Ren and Danny. She then took a seat with her teammates. "So what all happened after… yknow…?"
Danny was the one to answer. "When Logan, Matt and Qrow found you, you and Peter were both unconscious alone in the tower. Cinder was nowhere to be found. They got both of you back to the safe zone, where I got you both in stable condition."
"After we had all gathered our thoughts, my father had come down from Atlas," Weiss said. "He wanted to take me back, not believing Vale was safe for me anymore. To be fair, he wasn't all wrong, but part of the reason I came to Vale was to get away from him. And in the end, we won the battle. I wasn't going to let him take me back."
"What did he do?" Ruby asked.
"At first, he wouldn't have it. But when you have the general of Atlas's military and a small army of superheroes take your side, it tends to change a few minds."
"Really?" Ruby raised an eyebrow.
"Apparently, that Captain America fellow is big on choices and freedom. He didn't hesitate. The others weren't far behind. Ironwood stepped in when my father raised a hand towards me, even after their display."
"And what does that mean?" Ruby asked. Weiss smirked.
"It means Team RWBY stays together," She answered.
"I think we all have our things to figure out," Blake said, "But nothing will tear us apart now."
Ruby beamed and smiled wide. "So, where are the Avengers now?"
"Most of them have gone home, but Stark, Cap and Black Panther are still in Vale helping get some of the rebuilding started. Once it's underway, they'll head back to Earth too," Danny answered.
"What about you guys?" Ruby asked.
"Luke and Jessica are already back in Harlem. I'll be sure to pass your goodbye onto them when I go back."
"Sorry to hear," Ruby slightly frowned. "Where's Yang? And you're here, Ren. Where's the rest of Team JNPR?"
Tai came into the living room with Ruby's cup of tea, and Ruby gratefully accepted. "Everyone else is out in the field harvesting. I needed the help with the crops, and they all offered. Yang took the truck and drove them out. I figured they'd be back any time now."
Ben Reilly wiped the sweat off his brow and took a chance to catch his breath. His head wasn't shaven down anymore; blonde locks of hair had began to grow on top of his head. He looked up around him as Jaune, Pyrrha, Nora, Yang and Logan were loading crops, mainly wheat and assorted vegetables, into two crates placed in the bed of Tai's truck.
"Hey, you can stop, Ben," Yang said. "I think that's enough for today. Grab that pile and let's load up."
"Yes ma'am," Ben replied before picking up his haul of corn and carrying it all the way to one of the crates in the truck. "Gotta say, this is a nice change of pace from all the fighting. It's hard work, but… it feels good."
"Yeah," Yang agreed. "Don't get me wrong, I'd much rather be out there, but coming home and doing smaller things like this is a breath of fresh air sometimes."
"Trust me, kids, when you get as old as I do, you learn to appreciate peaceful chores like this more and more," Logan said. '
"Said the fossil," Nora smirked, making all her peers snicker.
"Yeah, yeah, get in the truck," Logan rolled his eyes before sliding himself into the driver's seat and starting the engine.
"Shotgun!" Nora exclaimed before practically leaping towards the passenger side door and hopping in.
"I wish we had Ren here. He'd be her leash," Jaune said. Pyrrha giggled. While Ben and Yang started to pull themselves up to sit in the truck bed, Pyrrha stopped Jaune for a moment.
"Jaune, I… I wanted to say again how sorry I am for what I did back at Beacon. But you must understand, I-" Pyrrha started.
"You were just doing what you had to do," Jaune said with a smile. "I know. And it's over now. The battle's over, and you're still here. That's all that matters." Pyrrha smiled back and gripped his hand firmly. Then Yang yelled out at them.
"Hey, lovebirds! Hurry up or you'll get left behind!" She waved them on.
"Coming, Yang!" Pyrrha replied. The two members of JNPR climbed into the truck bed as well and sat next to each other, across from Yang and Ben. Once they were aboard, Logan pressed down on the gas pedal and the truck started on its way back to the house. The golden-leaved trees came and went at a fast pace. The coastline of Patch was a sight to behold at this tiem of year, during the Fall.
Even thinking the name of the season made Pyrrha's chest tighten. She had avoided absorbing the powers of the Fall Maiden, and thus preserved her identity as she had feared she would lose, but Cinder had taken Amber's life and powers. She had become the Fall Maiden. If Cinder was dead, where had the powers gone to? All things considered, Pyrrha was glad it wasn't herself, not after what all had happened. It was an incredible power, one that in the right hands could be used for the betterment of Remnant, but it was also a power with a legacy of blood. Pyrrha recognized that now. That was something she wished she would never have to deal with again.
Her inner thoughts must've shown on her face, because Jaune squeezed her hand tenderly. She looked up at him curiously.
"You alright?" He asked.
"Yes, I'm okay. Just… just thinking. A lot has happened, and I guess it's just a lot to take in," Pyrrha answered.
"Well, anything I can do to help?" He asked with a smile. Pyrrha chuckled and gripped his hand tighter before leaning her head on his shoulder and closing her eyes, just as they had done before the Battle of Beacon.
"You're already doing it." Jaune leaned his head against hers as well.
Ben smiled at them and looked out at the coast, the shining sea reflecting the light from the lowering sun. "You seem happy," Yang said, getting his attention.
"Hm?" Ben said, turning his head to her. She was leaning her back against the main cab and looking to her left out at the same view before speaking to him.
"Before, you were always angry, or sad all the time. Sure, we helped, but it was like you were always somewhere else, and not a great place either. But ever since the end of the battle, and you came out here with us, you've just seemed… different."
"Well… for the first time in my life, I'm not afraid. With Taskmaster and Cinder both gone, and everything settling down, I'm free. Really free. Black Tarantula is gone for good, and Ben Reilly can be whoever he wants," Ben said.
"So who will Ben Reilly be?" Pyrrha asked.
"I'm not sure yet. Something quiet, peaceful. But not somewhere I'm doing nothing."
"Like here?" Yang asked.
"Yeah, something like it."
"No, I mean, here," Yang emphasized. "My dad could always use the help, especially since he's going out on missions again. With him gone off and on, someone's gotta watch the place, and you seem to enjoy it here. I'm sure if you asked him, he'd say yes."
"He barely knows who I am. The most he thinks he knows is I'm the little brother of a guy taking hospice in his daughter's room. I couldn't do that," Ben said.
"Tell you what, I'll talk to him," Yang said.
"Yang-" Ben started.
"You don't have a home, Ben, and you're wanting to feel normal. What's more normal than a farm boy in Patch?"
"I-I guess if you think that's for the best," Ben relented.
"It sounds good for you," Jaune added. "Especially in a place like this."
Yang looked ahead down the road. "Looks like we're almost back. You mind helping me with the crates, Ben?"
"Sure thing," Ben nodded. Once the truck pulled up to the homestead, everyone hopped out, and while Yang and Ben began to unload the crates of crops, Pyrrha, Nora and Jaune went inside. Logan hopped out of the driver's seat and looked up the way to see Qrow standing under a tree, sipping from his flask while looking out at the horizon. Logan walked up to him.
"Mind if I join ya?" He asked.
"Eh, I'm about to head out," Qrow replied, "But sure."
"Me too," Logan replied before leaning himself against the tree. "I figured I'd help these guys out a little, but I'll be on my way back to Vale tonight. I'll help set things on the way to rebuild, then hitch a ride back to New York."
Qrow chuckled lowly. "Multiverse. Other worlds. As if shit wasn't crazy enough…" Qrow then drank again.
"Tell me about it. Both of our worlds are already a mess, and then all this happens."
"I will say though... It was nice, having a partner watching my back again, 'specially someone so like minded," Qrow said.
"Can't say I disagree," Logan agreed. Qrow smirked and handed his flask off to Logan. He gratefully took it and sipped its contents as well.
"Gotta say, I'll miss ya, Logan."
"Feelin's mutual," Logan said as he handed back the flask. "But I have my own people to get back to. I'm hopin' maybe we'll see each other again someday."
"With this whole multiverse thing goin on? We just might, bub," Qrow said with a smirk.
"Real funny," Logan chuckled. The two shook hands. "See ya around, Qrow." Logan then went back down the homestead. Qrow looked down the road, and as soon as Logan and all the kids had finally filed back inside, he spoke.
"You can come out, now." Raven came around the tree and stood next to him. She also looked down the way as Yang, the last one inside, closed the front door behind them. "Does she know you and Tai talked?"
"No," Raven shook her head. "I made him promise not to tell her. She's not ready to have me around. And to be honest, neither am I."
"Yeah, you're not exactly mother of the year material," Qrow remarked, earning a harsh glare from his sister. "Tell me something: if you're really different now, why still have me give that message to Yang? About how you won't step in again?"
"That still holds true. Yang should be able to stand on her own. If she believes I will not step into battles for her, she will push herself to be stronger."
"A nice sentiment, but you're still her mother," Qrow frowned. "She at the very least deserves to know you're talking to Tai, lest she finds out if you try things again with him."
"That won't be anytime soon, Qrow. Besides, she's almost a grown woman, and she's strong. Stronger than any of us could ever hope to be," Raven said.
"They all are," Qrow corrected.
"If it comes down to it, I am glad our world is in their hands."
"Me too," Qrow agreed. "I assume you'll be on your way?"
"Unfortunately, yes. The tribe still needs me," Raven said.
"The tribe," Qrow scoffed.
"I may be trying with this family again, but I still will not abandon our tribe, Qrow. I will simply have to learn to balance the responsibilities."
"I'd give you shit, but I see you're actually trying."
Raven sighed and leaned her head back against the tree. "I will never be the mother Summer was. She was better at that life than me… but I want to try."
"Well… best of luck to ya," Qrow said before attaching his flask to his belt and stepping forward.
"Leaving already?" Raven asked.
"I want to catch James before he leaves Beacon. He, Glynda and I need to figure out the next step without Oz. We don't know how long it'll be until he's back, and until then it's up to us."
"Best of luck to you," Raven replied, mimicking his goodbye. He smirked and chuckled.
"See you soon, sis," Qrow said before his form morphed into a black feathered bird, which then took off and flew away. Raven looked after her brother, then looked back down the hill. Tai was in the kitchen window cooking when he looked out as well, meeting her eyes. She gave him a longing look, then did as her brother did, transforming and flying away.
Tai kept gazing as Raven left, let out a sigh, and returned to cooking. Meanwhile, all the kids were talking, laughing, enjoying one another's company. The world had begun to end around them, and they all stood tall. Now the danger had passed, and they were still here, together as the dust settled.
"I'm just glad things have blown over," Ren said.
"Me too," Blake agreed.
"It's still kinda weird, though, having everyone over like this. I know why Weiss and Blake didn't, but I figured the rest of you guys would all go home too," Ruby said.
"Ren and I… kinda don't have one," Nora nervously replied.
"My family was certainly worried, but I explained to them I wanted to help with the rebuilding once it was under way," Pyrrha answered. "Once they knew I was alright, they were understanding."
"Same with my parents," Jaune added.
"What about Penny?" Ruby asked.
"Right now, she's helping keep Vale together," Ben answered. "Ironwood didn't want her going too far until things get sorted out." Suddenly, Ben's scroll chimed and he slipped it out of his pocket. "Oh, speak of the devil! Come in close!" Ben and all the others scooted closer together and Ben answered the call, putting it on speaker. "Hey, Penny!"
"Hi Penny!" Ruby called out.
"Oh, Ruby, you're alright! That is wonderful to hear!" Penny replied.
"How are things back up in Vale?" Blake asked.
"Better," Penny answered. "The Grimm have been taken care of and repairs are underway. General Ironwood is overseeing resource management for the next few days until he leaves."
"He's returning to Atlas so soon?" Weiss questioned.
"Indeed. And unfortunately, all Atlas personnel will be returning with him."
"I-Including you?" Ben stammered.
"Yes," Penny answered in a dejected way as well. "But I have good news as well! Once General Ironwood inspects his entire staff in Atlas, he wants to establish an Atlesian presence in Vale for communication and deterrence. Specialist Castle has decided to stay on Remnant and volunteered for the position. I did as well!"
"And? What did he say?" Ruby asked.
"He accepted!" Penny beamed.
"That sounds grand!" Pyrrha smiled.
"When will you be back?" Ben asked.
"The General estimated it could take a few months before we're ready to establish the outpost. It's also a matter of staffing. Specialist Castle and I may have volunteered, but we're still looking for at least one more agent and small platoon of hand-picked soldiers to man it. I believe General Ironwood himself is creating the staff list. But I promise to stay in contact until we return to the kingdom!"
"We'll be waiting," Weiss said.
"Oh! Specialist Castle needs me, I must go. I promise to call soon! Goodbye, everyone!"
"Bye Penny!" Everyone said. The call ended and Ben pocketed his scroll with a saddened sigh.
"Aw," Yang smirked.
"W-What?" Ben questioned.
"Oh, nothing," Yang giggled.
"Something smells good," Another voice said. Everyone turned around to see that standing at the corner of the hall was Peter, holding his ribs gently. "What's for dinner?"
"Peter!" Ruby exclaimed, and in a rush of rose petals she tackled him to the ground, arms wrapped around him with a death grip.
"Ow… Why do you hurt me every time you hug me…?" Peter groaned. Ruby's grip only tightened, and tears ran down her cheeks.
"I'm sorry…" She cried. "I'm so sorry… I could've been faster…"
Peter smiled and gently rubbed her head. "It's alright, Ruby…. I'm alright. So long as you don't tackle me again." Ruby pushed herself off of him and Peter sat up, gripping his ribs again. Ren and Weiss helped him back up to his feet.
"Here, bring him over here," Tai said, gesturing to a lone seat in the kitchen. Weiss and Ren brought Peter over and helped him sit down before Danny joined them and inspected his bandages and wounds.
"Looks like everything's healed nicely enough," he diagnosed. "I'd just take it easy for a few days."
"No problem," Peter said with a weak thumbs up. Danny smirked before patting Peter's shoulder.
"Good to have you back, man," Danny said.
"Same here, Webhead," Logan added. Danny then turned to Weiss.
"With him awake, Logan and I'll head out. Call me if anything happens, Matt and I will be by in a few days to check in otherwise."
"Right," Weiss nodded. "I'll see you then?"
"What? Miss me already, Miss Schnee?" Danny smiled.
"Careful, Mister Rand, or I just might," Weiss smiled back.
Danny chuckled and started to head for the door, grabbing his jacket. "Be sure to say hello to your sister for me."
"W-Wha-? Hey!" Weiss exclaimed with a slight blush on her face. Danny snickered before the front door closed behind him. Weiss began cursing Danny violently under her breath, which Peter couldn't help but laugh at.
"You were wondering what I was making," Tai said, getting Peter's attention. "I made stew for everyone. Figured it'd hit the spot after the day's work everyone else did, and something like this would be good for you and Ruby, who were still recovering."
"Oh, right! You must be Ruby and Yang's dad. I'm Peter," Peter greeted before putting his hand out.
Tai shook his hand. "I know. They wouldn't shut up about you even before you were under our roof."
"Dad!" Ruby whined.
Tai laughed a little. "C'mon, tell me I'm wrong. Stew's done, everyone come make your bowls. Peter, I'll make yours once everyone's cleared out."
"Thank you, sir," Peter gratefully nodded with a smile. The young huntsmen all filed through, filling their bowls with a stew containing cuts of beef and a variety of vegetables some of which they had gathered that same day. The others all sat in the living room, while Tai sat in the kitchen with Peter.
"So, you're the guy my daughters can't stop talking about," Tai said.
"I'm not all that great, sir."
"Not every kid will put their life on the line, throw themselves into harm's way just because it's the right thing to do. I've watched the news since you first showed up, heard the stories of what you did from my daughters. Not just about your 'other life', but the things you've done for them. Not just Ruby and Yang, everyone. Part of the reason these kids are here is because of you," Tai said. Peter looked out at his friends.
Jaune and Pyrrah. He went through orientation with them. Exploring the Emerald Forest, fighting Grimm, having their backs. Those were some of his first memories on Remnant, and they'll be with him for the rest of his life. Jaune reminded Peter of younger him, a young man with just a drive to be a hero and do good, no matter what. Pyrrah was a strong warrior who was genuine, kind, and brave. She was someone anyone can aspire to be.
Ren and Nora. Looking back on it, he wished he spent more time with just them. They always seemed to have a history and connection that tied them together, made them family. It was a bond he envied. He did remember in the early days of superheroes on Remnant, Nora would fangirl as much as Ruby about his and the Defenders' adventures. It always made him smile.
Weiss. Certainly someone he had to get used to at first, but he never believed she was as bad as everyone else did. He always saw something below the surface. He was happy when she let down that barrier with him and the team. She was truly a cunning and kind Huntress just trying to live up to her name. And in some ways, he considered her the bravest of them all. She would rather stand alone from her family than let her name become something lesser. Something else he noticed, that in the craze of recent things he'd forgotten, hanging around her neck was the stunning snowflake necklace he'd bought for her during their first semester. Looking back on it, he didn't think he'd ever seen her without it after. It warmed his heart. It served as both a token of friendship and a reminder of all they'd been through.
Blake. The first face he'd met on Remnant. Certainly, another bad first impression. He'd caught her off guard, she'd tried to kill him, and they were promptly attacked by Taskmaster as well. At the very least, it was an unforgettable first meeting. Then come his arrival at Beacon, she immediately figured out he was Spider-Man. They were somewhat standoffish at first, though not to the extreme he and Weiss were. But they had grown very close, particularly so. She was the first to understand him, and he imagined the reverse was true as well. And some of the time with her is what helped bring him back from the brink. Their rooftop talks, their soul-to-soul in the classroom, their dance. It felt like whenever he needed her, she was there, so he tried to be there for her as well. He didn't know how well off he'd be without her.
Ruby and Yang. The two that had truly made Remnant feel like another home. The two that made it feel like he was in another family. The two he was the most grateful for. Words couldn't describe how much a part they'd played in him wanting to stay on Remnant. And based on the way Yang and now Tai had talked, he had the same effect on them. If Ruby saw him as a brother, then he guessed he saw both of them as his own sisters. They always made him feel loved and welcome. And now he owed Ruby his life. He couldn't be more grateful.
"You changed all of their lives, and you were willing to give up yours in return. That doesn't just make you special, that makes you a hero," Tai said.
Peter smiled. "Thank you, sir."
"Don't call me sir. You're not one of my students. As far as I'm concerned, with how my daughters feel and what you've done for them and the world, you're family. Call me Tai."
Peter was surprised, but was glad. "Thank you, Tai." Peter's vision then came to Ben, who smiled alongside the rest of Vale's huntsmen-in-training. Peter then frowned. "Sir-... Tai. Can I ask a… strange favor of you?"
"What is it?" Tai asked.
"Ben doesn't have anywhere to go. And he seems happy here, like he belongs. He needs something like this. Do you think he could stay here? In Patch?"
"Yeah, that hairy guy said he heard Yang bring it up in the truck," Tai said. "Of course he can stay. I could use the help, and he could use the home. I'm more than happy to help."
"Thank you, Tai. Again."
Tai smiled and began to dig into his own stew. "Anytime."
Cinder awoke with her body feeling like it was on fire. Her mouth opened to scream, but mere rasps came out. She couldn't move a single muscle. Even breathing felt excruciating. "Lady Salem, she's awake," She heard a voice say, one she recognized as Doctor Watts, another servant of Salem's. Every second felt like an eternity as pain shot up and down her body constantly. After what felt like forever, the form of Salem stood over her. It took until now for Cinder to realize she was missing an eye and an arm. The entire left side of her body was destroyed, burned away.
"Cinder, Cinder… it seems even godly power couldn't save you from a little girl," Salem hissed. "Silver eyes or not, I expected better from you. And yet you were dragged back to me in the wake of almost complete failure. I give you credit for retrieving the powers of the Fall Maiden, but that would be like me praising Tyrian for the murder of a cripple. In every other aspect of your mission, you failed. You were beaten in battle, the Wyvern was killed, and the CCT Tower remains intact. Now the world knows Vale was attacked from within, now the world knows that Cinder Fall from Mistral is to blame, and you have cost us the element of surprise for the foreseeable future!"
Salem's eyes narrowed. "Our plans have come to a halt. It will take time to form a new strategy, time that you will pay for dearly. This is why you shouldn't have let yourself become distracted by Anthony Masters. He was a problem." Salem then leaned down and whispered into Cinder's ear, her breath cold as ice. "Tell me, who do you think gave Phineas Mason the Grimm matter in the first place?" Cinder's remaining eye rounded, and she slowly turned her head to look up at the then standing again Salem. "Remember, without me, you are nothing." Salem's cold eyes and expression were the last things Cinder saw before blacking out.
Ruby stood before her mother's tombstone. The cool morning breeze swept rose petals off of her into the sky as the morning sun changed it to a golden hue. Everyone had stayed the night in Patch. Team JNPR slept in the living room, Yang and Weiss slept in Ruby's room with her, and Ben and Blake slept in Yang's room with Peter. It was a cramped house, but they made it work. Ruby was the first awake, so she snuck out and decided to come here. It was a bit of a walk, but she didn't mind, especially to come here. She'd been here for half an hour already, just being here with her mother. She was standing alone quietly when Peter's voice startled her.
"Your dad said I'd find you here." Ruby jumped and turned to see Peter coming up behind her. He took a place next to her and read the tombstone. Without saying anything, he placed a hand on her shoulder. She smiled and patted his hand.
"You should be in bed, y'know. You're still hurt," She said concerningly.
"Eh, I've been stabbed before," Peter waved her off. "Besides… there's something we need to talk about."
"What is it?" Ruby asked.
Peter didn't seem ready to talk about it, but he took a deep breath and did so anyway. "Better to start with one person than a full room… Ruby… I've decided I'm going back home. To my Earth."
Ruby's expression instantly became downtrodden. "W-What…?"
Peter sighed, knowing it would hurt her. It hurt him to tell her. "I've been working on myself. I was shown the only way for me to fully find myself again is face the past, and uphold my responsibilities. One of those responsibilities is protecting the city I was raised in. I can't turn my back on it anymore."
"B-But… but you said you'd stay. That you'd stay here, with us!" Ruby exclaimed, her eyes welling up.
"I-I know what I promised…" Peter stammered, trying to keep his own composure. "But I know now what I have to do, and going home is one of those things. Trust me, I don't want to leave, but… I need to. I don't expect it to be easy, but-" Ruby's arms wrapped around his torso again. It was like she was holding on for dear life. Peter was having a hard time keeping his composure now. He hugged her back firmly.
"Promise… promise you'll come back…" Ruby sobbed. He felt his heart wrench.
"I-I promise. I'll come back as often as I can. I love you guys too much not to…"
"We love you too…" Ruby replied. She let out a shaky sigh before pulling away. "S-So… ready to go tell everyone e-else?"
"Nope. The three of them are going to kill me."
Needless to say, the other three members of RWBY as well as TEam JNPR didn't take the news well at all. Over the next few days, it took a lot of talking and explaining to help them realize why Peter had to leave. And even after understanding, they weren't happy. They thought he'd stay with them, like he'd promised. But if Peter believed it was what he had to do, they realized they had no right to try and stop him. So instead, they decided to make the days of his recovery count. One day, Yang took the truck and drove them all around Patch, touring everyone else around the island where she and Ruby were raised. For a weekend, they camped out in the woods near the homestead. Very little Grimm wandered Patch, and they didn't encounter any of the creatures during that weekend. Some days they worked all the homestead chores together. Most days they just stayed stuck around inside, making the most of their quality time together.
Unfortunately, Peter's recovery was about finished, and on this night that Peter sat against the trunk of a large tree outside, looking up at the shattered moon shining in the starry sky, he would be returning to Earth in two days time. He'd scheduled to be picked up first thing the day after tomorrow. The closer it came time for him to leave, the more he wanted to go back on his decision, to decide to stay on Remnant after all, stay with them. It took every ounce of his strength not to give in to that desire. He knew what he had to do, and what he had to give up to do it.
"Couldn't sleep?" Blake asked. Peter turned his head to see her standing there, a small blanket wrapped around her torso.
"No," Peter answered, looking back forward. "Even though I really need it."
"Care for some company?" She asked. Peter smiled and scooted over for her. She smiled back, stepped over, and lowered herself down next to him. "You okay?"
"I'm… better. I just…"
"Don't wanna leave?" Blake finished for him.
Peter chuckled exhaustedly. "No."
"You said it yourself, you have a responsibility to uphold. It may sadden all of us…. But you have to go back," Blake said.
"I hated every second of telling you guys," Peter looked down. "When I told Ruby, I could barely keep myself together. Seeing her face…. I sure didn't feel like a hero. It hurt just as much when I told the rest of you."
"Nothing like that is easy. I didn't envy you."
Peter weakly chuckled. "Y'know, part of me just wants to say screw it and stay here. To forget it all and just be on Remnant for the rest of my life."
"But that's not who you are," Blake smiled, saying it as more of a statement than a question. "And we wouldn't have it any other way." Peter smiled again, feeling any tension fade away and his body relax. "Aren't you cold?"
"I'll be fine. Besides, maybe it's about time we head in anyway. Get some sleep. Tomorrow will be a day to make everything count." He stood up and put his hand out to Blake. She took it and Peter helped her to her feet. They then headed back for the house together. Once they reached the door, Peter quietly opened it, he and Blake slipped inside, and he quietly closed it, careful not to wake the sleeping Team JNPR, as well as Yang who had laid herself out here this night as well. They tiptoed past their friends across the living room. "You go on to bed, I'll catch up in a few," Peter whispered.
"Just don't stay up too late. Don't want you to sleep your last day on Remnant away," Blake smiled warmly.
"Yes ma'am," Peter smiled back.
Blake bashfully glanced away before looking back up at him. She stepped close, stood up on her tiptoes, and gently and tenderly kissed the side of his cheek, much to Peter's surprise. Her lips pressed against his cheek for a solid few seconds before Blake pulled away and dropped back down to the soles of her feet. Both of their faces flushed red, and Blake's bashfulness remained. "Good night, Peter," Blake said before slowly turning around and heading for the bedroom. Peter rubbed the back of his neck with his own nervous smile.
He turned around to get a drink from the kitchen when he saw into the living room, where Yang and Nora were both awake. They both had smirks on their faces, and were slowly nodding with proud looks. "Oh, shut up," Peter waved them off.
The final day passed by too fast. Before they knew it, the morning had arrived. None of them were ready. Team JNPR had headed out of Patch early, heading back to Vale. They wouldn't be around to see Peter off, so they said their goodbyes on their way out instead. Peter didn't look forward to the goodbyes with Team RWBY. So when Danny, Matt and Tony came through a rift to the homestead to escort him home, it was a harsh moment.
Peter turned to see the five of his remaining Remnant friends lined up. Ben, Yang, Blake, Weiss, and Ruby. He figured going down the line was as good an idea as any. He approached Ben first.
"Don't do anything stupid until next time I come around," Peter said.
"Well, the stupid's in your half of the genetics, so I got nothing to worry about," Ben smirked. Peter rolled his eyes and pulled Ben in for a hug.
"Jerk." Peter patted Ben's back and pulled away. "Take care of yourself. I gave you that name for a reason. Make sure to prove it."
"You got it," Ben nodded. Peter then moved on to Yang. Before he even got a chance to speak, Yang hauled him off the ground in a vice grip embrace.
"You better come back," Yang said.
"I promise, I will," Peter smiled, returning the embrace with his own insane strength. Yang eventually put him down and let go. "Keep an eye on them, okay? They need the older sister watching them both." Peter gestured to both Ruby and Ben.
Yang chuckled a bit. "Will do."
Next came Blake. Their tender moment the other night never left the lips of Yang or Nora, and that was what they preferred as well. They met eyes, and simply hugged. They'd spent so much time getting to know each other, there wand's much to say. "Take care of yourself," Blake said, pulling away.
"You too," Peter replied. "And hey, don't be afraid to be yourself. Don't hide who you are forever."
"I'll keep it in mind," Blake replied.
Then came Weiss. Peter could tell she was trying to keep her composure. He smiled and gently pulled her into a hug. He felt her body quiver, but she returned the hug happily with an unusually tight grip for someone of her build. "Be careful not to melt on me, Ice Queen," Peter joked.
"Shut up, you dolt…." Weiss replied, but there was no edge to it. Peter laughed and the two split apart. Weiss wiped her eyes and cleared her throat.
"You're a brave and skilled woman, Miss Schnee. You make your family and your name proud."
"As do you, Mister Parker," Weiss replied with a soft smile.
Peter looked down and eyed the pristine necklace draped from her neck. "And watch that. It cost me a small fortune."
"I'll protect it with my life," Weiss assured.
Finally, it came to Ruby. There'd been enough emotions the past few weeks, too much spent between the two of them. Ruby just looked up at him and smiled exasperatedly. "I think we've about spent all the weird feelings around here," Ruby chuckled. Peter smiled and placed his hands on her shoulders.
"Ruby Rose. You're the bravest, kindest, most genuine person I know. Even with your back to the wall, you put everything on the line, defended your kingdom, and saved my life. You are a better hero than I could ever hope to be. You're the kind of person I can look up to," Peter said. Ruby smiled wide while looking up at him. Peter backed up and looked at all of them together. "I'm happy to call you my friends. My family. I may be leaving, but I'm not worried about this place when Remnant has defenders like you."
The five of them smiled happily, the sorrow of their friend leaving overtaken by the feeling of joy in this moment between them. He smiled back at them, rooted to the spot. He was finding it hard to turn around and leave now.
"Hey kid, c'mon! We're burning daylight here!" Tony called out. Peter glanced back at him, then on his friends again.
"I'll come back eventually. Don't burn Vale down until I get back," Peter said.
"No promises," Yang smirked.
"Come back sooner than later, alright?" Weiss requested.
"Sooner it is," Peter agreed. Then, albeit hesitantly, he turned around and went for the rift. Tony, Danny and Matt all filed through. Peter walked right up to the multiversal door, then paused. He looked over his shoulder one last time, seeing his friends looking at him as well. With one last smile to them, he looked forward and stepped through.
Peter came through, finding himself in the lab under the Avengers Mansion. Behind him, the multiversal portal shut down, and the rift to Remnant closed. It took him a second to walk forward, to take in the fact he was back on his world. He took a few deep breaths, then kept walking forward. Tony stopped him after a few steps. "You alright Peter?" He asked.
"For the most part, yeah," Peter answered.
"Well…. If you're really in the hero's work again, the Avengers have missed their favorite wall crawler."
"About that, Mister Stark," Peter said before pulling out his Avenger's ID card and handing it to Tony, "I quit the team. Formally, this time."
"What are you doing?" Tony questioned.
"I may be Spider-Man again, but I left for a reason, a long time ago. If I'm gonna build myself back up, it's gotta be on my own. To do that, I can't be Spider-Man, Might Avenger. I have to Spider-Man, Friendly Neighborhood hero," Peter said.
"You sure this is what you want?" Tony asked. Peter firmly nodded. Tony sighed. "FRIDAY, you heard the man."
"Yes, Mister Stark," A female electronic voice said. "A-15: Spider-Man. Status: Resigned."
"Well… there it is," Tony said.
"Maybe one day, I'll work my way back up," Peter said. "For now though, I need to get back to the old roots."
"Good man," Tony nodded. Then an alarm sounded. "FRIDAY, what's going on?"
"Otto Octavius spotted in Times Square. Law enforcement have made contact."
"Sounds like I'm already on the clock," Peter said
"I saw the reports for months! I know he is back! Where is the arachnid?!" Octavius exclaimed, his four metallic arms attached to his back making good use of their function. Two of them held him up from the ground while the other two grabbed and threw anything within reach. The police had set barricades up down the roads every way. People were still trapped in the danger zone. A little girl was trapped under a piece of rubble torn from the seats in the center of Times Square. One young man at the front of the barricades saw her, and in a split decision choice, leapt over it and sprinted for her. He heard his father, one of the police officers, call his name. The boy ignored him and ran to the young girl. He hauled the piece of rubble off her and helped her up.
"You alright?" He asked her. The little girl nodded, then looked up and screamed as the looming shadow of Octavius stood over the both of them. The boy looked up at the imposing villain. Octavius smirked.
"Such a foolish young man." One of his metal arms reached out and gripped the grill of a police car. It lifted the vehicle up, then brought it down towards the two boy quickly shielded the young girl with his body and closed his eyes, waiting for the impact.
It never came.
The boy opened his eyes and looked up to see the silhouette of Spider-Man catching the car in his bare hands. "Y'know, Otto, if you wanted my attention, all you had to do was call. You get a free one on the other side of a jail cell," Peter quipped. He then dropped down and kicked the car with both legs, sending the vehicle into Octavius's body and smashing him into one of evacuated storefronts.
The boy was in amazement, especially so when Spider-Man turned around and talked to him. "You alright?"
"Y-Yes sir!" The boy stood up.
"That was a brave thing you did, but next time you should steer clear of the line of fire," Peter suggested.
"Someone had to help," The boy said. "But you're back! I knew you weren't gone!"
"I was for a little bit there, but yeah. I'm here, and I'm here to stay. You got guts, kid. What's your name?" Peter asked.
"Miles," he answered. "Miles Morales." Peter stopped for a second. This was him: Aaron's nephew. He took a silent breath.
"You did good, Miles. You take the little one there and get back on the other side of that barricade."
"Yes sir," Miles nodded before picking up the girl and carrying her back to the safe zone. He watched them go. A woman came up and took the young girl in tears. Her mother, no doubt. Miles then got scolded by one of the officers, which he picked up as Miles' father. The tearing of metal took his attention away. Octavius returned to his height and tore the police car in half.
"There you are, arachnid," He cackled.
"Hey, Otto! Long time no see!" Peter waved. "You miss me?"
"Come closer, and I can show you," Octavius hissed.
"You want me to come to you? Playing hard to get, Otto, I never figured you were that kinda guy."
"Your banter is something I didn't miss."
"You wound me so!" Peter exclaimed, mocking a blow to his heart. He then chuckled and popped his neck. "Welcome home…." He said to himself with a smirk. He then sprinted towards Otto, and Otto started towards him.
My name is Peter Parker. Almost five years ago, my life changed forever when I was bitten by a radioactive spider. When I misused the powers it granted me and I lost the ones I loved, I gave up on the life of a hero. But when I traveled to another world, my new friends reminded me why I wore the mask in the first place.
Peter jumped onto a car, leapt off of it, and webbed a lamppost to swing upwards to Otto's height.
So now I've returned to my city to show them that hope isn't lost. These powers aren't my curse, they're my responsibility. So, yeah…. I'm Spider-Man.
One of Otto's arms pulled back to strike, and Peter's right arm did the same. Then they both came down with all their strength.
And no one can take that from me ever again.
The End
Peter Parker will return…
… in Spider-Man: Born Again