Jaune Arc sat at the edge of the airship's cargo hold, staring into the swirling clouds below. The month-long wait had finally come to an end. The white fang and the Menagerie Guard had reached out for negotiations.

Mistral's skyline, still marred by the devastation of the assault, though had been painted over, still loomed large in his thoughts. He had evidence linking the White Fang to every major attack, from the bombing of a train to the assault on Haven Academy. His mind was a storm of conflicting voices, each vying for dominance, each with its own idea of what should be done next.

"Negotiations? What are you, a politician now? I know you've been acting one, but you're not. You're a Mediator. You talk to people who can be talked. These are terrorists, Jaune. They've bombed trains, nearly razed Mistral City to the ground, attacked Haven, and destroyed the CCT. You have evidence of their crimes. Evidence! You should be using it to bring them to justice, not to parley." The Yellow tie's voice said.

"Justice? And how exactly do you plan to enforce it? This isn't a simple criminal case, it's a political quagmire. You've got one of the Albain twins locked up, sure, but what does that get you? Menagerie is a powder keg, and one wrong move could turn the Faunus population against you. You need to tread carefully. I understand you've been helping the Faunus, but the truth is, unless you've an animal part in you, you're still a 'filthy 'human' to them," advised the Well-Informed Voice, its tone calm and measured.

"Tread carefully? Ha! You need leverage, Jaune. You need to find out what they want and use it to your advantage. They're reaching out because they need something. Information, resources, asylum—figure it out. And whatever you do, don't give away too much. Keep Atlas and Mistral strong, but don't make it look like you're trying to annex Menagerie." the Scheming Voice suggested, its tone dripping with cunning.

"Honor, Jaune. Remember your honor. You're not just negotiating for yourself, but for the safety and well-being of countless innocents. Find a way to make peace, but don't compromise your principles. You're a leader now, whether you like it or not," urged the Knight's Voice, its tone filled with earnest conviction.

Jaune rubbed his temples, trying to silence the cacophony in his head. Each voice had a point, but none offered a clear path forward. He had spent the last month helping refugees from Menagerie, listening to their stories of suffering and loss. He wanted to help, to make a difference, but how could he negotiate with people who had caused so much pain?

The airship lurched slightly as it began its descent. Menagerie was visible in the distance, a stark contrast to the bustling cities of Mistral and Atlas. It was a land of rugged beauty, but also of deep-seated grievances and unrest.

As the airship touched down, Jaune took a deep breath for himself. The representatives were waiting. He stepped off the ramp, his mind still wrestling with the voices.

"Show strength, Jaune. Let them know you won't be intimidated. You have the evidence — use it," the Rusty Voice barked, its tone harsh and unyielding.

"Strength is one thing, but diplomacy is another. You need to find common ground, something that can lead to peace," the Well-Informed Voice advised, its tone soothing and strategic.

"Figure out their angle. They're here for a reason, and it's not just to talk. Leverage that," the Scheming Voice urged, its tone filled with intrigue.

"Be true to yourself, Jaune. Protect the innocent, but don't lose your way," the Knight's Voice reminded him, its tone steadfast and resolute.

Jaune approached the representatives, a surprising mix of Humans and Faunus. The one in the lead, a Faunus with a grim expression, stepped forward.

"Oh, he KNOWS you," the Scheming voice said.

"LOOK JAUNE, it's the golden button again!" The Curious Voice. "It's must be his brother."

"You could feel it, the enmity he had with you. He's angry about you locking up his brother. He can reason out that he wasn't part of it, but he knows you know it already," the heart noticed.

"Jaune Arc," the Faunus said, his voice steady and authoritative, "you're here to discuss terms."

"Don't pussy-foot with this guy, he's here to make you look bad,". Raise The Scheming voice said. "Make him look bad, raise your voice. Show truth."

"That is correct," Jaune nodded, trying to keep his composure as he raised a hand. "I'm here to listen. But also understand this: I have evidence linking your organization to the bombings in Mistral, the attack on Haven, and the destruction of the CCT. You have a lot to answer for," he stated, his tone firm and unwavering. "Especially you, Mr. Albain."

The faunus's eyes narrowed. "We did what we had to do to draw attention to our cause. Menagerie has been ignored for too long," the faunus replied, his voice tinged with defiance.

"And bombing innocent people is your solution?" Jaune shot back, feeling the Rusty Voice urging him on. "I've seen the destruction firsthand. I've helped the survivors. You're not freedom fighters, you're terrorists," he declared, his voice filled with righteous anger.

The Faunus's expression darkened. "We're freedom fighters. You just don't see it because you're part of the system that oppresses us," the Faunus countered, his voice laced with bitterness.

Jaune's eyes narrowed as he met the Albain's gaze, stepping into his space. "You think I don't understand? For the past three years, I've been out there helping people. I've been solving their problems, listening to their grievances, aiding refugees. Yes, I would've agreed with that same line. Somehow you think excuses all of this. But when you start killing your own people to achieve it? That's where I draw the line."

Jaune chuckled bitterly. "Don't make me laugh again. I have every reason to put you in the same cell as your brother, but I haven't. Yet." He pulled out a picture and shoved it towards the Corsac Albain's face. "Recognize him? Your brother, trying to attach green crystals to a Grimm. And this—" Jaune added, gesturing to a folder of evidence he had collected, "This is the evidence."

He paused, letting the weight of his words sink in. "This isn't just about oppression anymore. You've made it about something much darker. So don't talk to me about being a part of the system. Negotiation is going to take a while, and it won't start until you understand the actual damage you've caused."

Jaune pulled out another photo, this time of Yuma and Trifa in the middle of a train while they were bombing the train. "Are they here? These murderers?"

Corsac said nothing, merely crossing his arms in response. Everyone was looking at him. It didn't help that Jaune was brazenly showing these evidences without caring for Albain's face.

Jaune snorted. "Glad you understand. Judging by how you're in this place now, I assume that Miss Sienna Khan is already in the home of the Belladonnas?"

Corsac nodded curtly. "Yes."

"Good," Jaune replied. "Now, would you kindly leave? You aren't worth talking to, Human or Faunus, you character disgusts me. Now get out of my way, Mr. Albain, and let me speak to those who can do better."

Corsac gritted his teeth, but begrudgingly led Jaune through the streets and finally into the Belladonna household. The atlas soldiers flanking Jaune watched Albain and started securing the perimeter.

As Jaune stepped forward, he locked eyes with Qrow, his expression unwavering. "Qrow Branwen," he greeted, his tone neutral but respectful.

Qrow's brows furrowed, his eyes narrowing as he assessed Jaune. "You've got some explaining to do, kid," he growled, his voice low and edged with anger. "Why the hell did Raven come through her portal looking like she'd seen a ghost, with you stabbing at her like some kind of maniac?"

Jaune squared his shoulders, meeting Qrow's gaze head-on. "Raven Branwen is guilty of crimes against humanity," he stated firmly. "Banditry, theft, and countless lives lost under her watch. She needed to be brought to justice."

Qrow let out a frustrated sigh, running a hand through his hair. "Yeah, I know she's no saint," he admitted grudgingly. "But why the hell were you the one handling her? And why the aggressive approach?"

"You know why we have to, Mr. Branwen. You know how strong your sister is," Jaune's jaw tightened slightly, his resolve unyielding. "And Because someone had to," he replied, his tone tinged with frustration. "Most of Mistral's Huntsmen are dead, and the only ones left who could even attempt to capture her were me and Miss Winter Schnee."

Qrow's eyes flashed with irritation, but he couldn't argue with Jaune's logic. "Yeah, but why you?" he pressed, his voice sharper now.

Jaune's gaze remained steady, a hint of defiance flickering in his eyes. "Maybe you should've been the one to step up," he retorted, a trace of bitterness coloring his words. "After all, you're the one who's been hounding after her for years."

Ruby, sensing the tension escalating, stepped forward, her voice gentle but firm. "Hey guys, let's calm down," she interjected, shooting Jaune a reassuring smile. "We're all on the same side here."

Jaune's expression softened as he looked at Ruby, a small smile playing at the corners of his lips. "Of course, Ruby," he replied, surprisingly friendly. "Sorry for the rough entrance a while ago."

Turning to Blake, Weiss, and Pyrrha, Jaune greeted them. "Blake, Weiss, and Miss Nikos." causing a flicker of discomfort to pass over Pyrrha's features.

"I apologize for my actions during that time," he said sincerely, his tone earnest. "But I didn't want to risk being stranded on the other side and I was in a hurry."

Jaune wanted to ask about Yang, but a voice made a conclusion for him. "Either she lost an arm… or something. You can see Blake's uncomfortable. She probably killed Adam again."

Ruby, Blake, and Weiss saw the look in Jaune's eyes. Placid, scrutinizing, and dully stoic. It was unlike the socially inept dork in Beacon, far from it.

Jaune's attention was then drawn to a new figure emerging from the shadows of the entrance. Kali Belladonna stepped forward, her expression one of calm, mixed with a hint of curiosity. Jaune took a deep breath, collecting himself before addressing the Faunus.

"Mrs. Belladonna," Jaune said, his voice steady and respectful. He extended a hand in greeting, his demeanor that of a consummate professional. "My name is Jaune Arc. Conflict Resolution Specialist, representing the interests of both Mistral and Atlas in the ongoing negotiations. My role is to facilitate a peaceful resolution to the conflict and ensure that justice is served for all parties involved."

Kali accepted Jaune's hand with a firm shake, her eyes studying the young man before her. "It's a pleasure to meet you, Mr. Arc," she replied, her voice warm but measured. "I've heard much about your efforts in Mistral and your work with the refugees. Nyra spoke so much about you."

Jaune nodded, appreciating the acknowledgment. "Thank you, Mrs. Belladonna. It's been a challenging road, but my goal has always been to help those in need and to bring stability to our world."

Kali's gaze shifted briefly to Blake, who stood nearby with a guilty expression before returning to Jaune. "I also understand you have evidence linking the White Fang to several major attacks. Can you provide us with more details on this matter?"

"Of course," Jaune said, his tone becoming more formal. "I have substantial evidence connecting the White Fang to the bombing of a train, the assault on Haven Academy, and the destruction of the CCT. This evidence includes eyewitness testimonies, surveillance footage, and physical proof of their involvement. My goal is to ensure that those responsible are held accountable for their actions, while also working towards a peaceful resolution that benefits all parties."

Kali listened intently, nodding in understanding. "I see. It's crucial that we address these issues openly and honestly. The White Fang's actions have caused significant harm, not only to humans but also to the Faunus community they claim to represent."

"Precisely," Jaune agreed. "My aim is to find a path forward that addresses these grievances and prevents further violence. I believe that through dialogue and cooperation, we can achieve an agreement."

Kali's expression softened slightly, a sign of his approval. "Your approach is commendable, Mr. Arc. It's clear that you have the best interests of both communities at heart. I look forward to working with you to find a solution."

Jaune inclined his head respectfully. "Thank you, Mrs. Belladonna. I appreciate your support and willingness to engage in these discussions. Together, I'm confident we can make a difference."

As Kali nodded and stepped back, allowing Jaune to continue his work. The Scheming Voice whispered its approval once more, but Jaune brushed it aside, focusing instead on the task at hand.

Without another look at Ruby, Blake, Weiss, Pyrrha, and Qrow.

He followed Mrs. Belladonna into the discussion.

As Jaune disappeared down the entrance hall with Kali Belladonna, the area fell into a contemplative silence. Ruby turned to the group, her eyebrows knitting together in a mix of concern and curiosity. "Jaune's... different," she said softly, breaking the silence.

Weiss crossed her arms and sighed, her voice carrying a begrudging tone. "He's nothing like he was at Beacon. If someone had told me Jaune freaking Arc would become someone like this, working with my sister, and actually in charge of peace negotiations, I wouldn't have believed it."

Ruby couldn't help but tease, a playful glint in her eye. "Are you mad because he kicked your butt, Weiss?"

Weiss sniffed, lifting her chin in classic Weiss fashion. "I'm choosing to ignore that comment, Ruby."

Meanwhile, Pyrrha was fidgeting with her fingers, a troubled look on her face. She glanced up as Qrow spoke, his tone uncharacteristically gentle. "You can't blame the kid," he said. "Getting kicked out of Beacon, drifting away, and Ozpin keeping us all busy... it changes people. This is usually how it ends up."

Qrow's words seemed to strike a chord with Pyrrha. "Arc doesn't hate you, Pyrrha," Qrow continued. "But right now, he's treating you like an acquaintance, because that's probably the safest place for him emotionally."

Pyrrha nodded slowly, understanding the unspoken truth in Qrow's words. "I understand," she murmured, saying nothing more.

Blake, who had been quietly observing, finally spoke up. "Do you think Jaune can use his semblance on Yang?"

Ruby's eyes lit up with hope. "I could ask him," she volunteered, stepping forward eagerly.

Qrow shook his head, holding up a hand to halt her. "It's not the right time for that. Let's see what the kid's doing first. Yang needs… space. And looked around, kiddo."

Ruby nodded.

The group followed Jaune into the large meeting room, a space designed for serious discussions and negotiations. The room was expansive, with an upper walkway wrapped around the walls, dotted with doors leading out, and bookshelves spaced at intervals. Dark green pillars stood tall, contrasting with the lighter tones of the rest of the house. Above the walkway, various plants hung down, adding a touch of greenery. The ceiling was made of dark wood with crossing beams, giving the room a sense of strength and permanence.

In the center of the room, much of the floor space was open, with long desks and multiple chairs surrounding a small stage. To the left of the stage, a large picture of the Belladonna house was prominently displayed, alongside many other family photos. Jaune Arc sat in front of the Menagerie Guard, the Chieftain Ghira Belladonna, and the White Fang High Leader, Sienna Khan. On the table before him lay the evidence he had meticulously gathered on the White Fang's activities in Mistral.

Ruby, Weiss, Blake, Qrow, and Pyrrha entered the room quietly, taking in the tense atmosphere. Jaune, with a professional's attitude, was calmly discussing the evidence and reasoning about the challenges of achieving peace without significant compromises. The pictures of Fennec Albain, Yuma, Trifa, and other White Fang members were spread out for all to see, each one a stark reminder of the violence and chaos they had caused.

Ghira's deep voice broke the tension. "You're putting us in a very difficult position, Mr. Arc," he said, his tone heavy with the weight of leadership.

Surprisingly, Sienna Khan nodded in agreement. "You're asking too much from us. Our independence? You're taking our home?" she said, her voice filled with indignation and a touch of desperation.

Blake looked alarmed, about to speak up, but Qrow gently placed a hand on her arm, stopping her.

Jaune's expression remained impassive as he began to explain. "I understand this is a hard pill to swallow," he said, his voice measured and calm. "But consider the situation from our perspective. The refugees we've taken in from Menagerie, the bombs that razed parts of Mistral, the countless deaths, and the ongoing crisis on Mistral's shores — all of these are direct results of the White Fang's activities."

He paused, letting his words sink in before continuing. "Mistral in the process of rebuilding, and it's an enormous task. Mistral is stretched thin, and we cannot afford another major conflict, but Mistral will do what it takes to get justice for what the White Fang had done to Anima. Make no mistake in this. This is why we need to reach a compromise. Menagerie's actions have had far-reaching consequences, and if we don't find a way to coexist, we risk even greater destruction."

Ghira sighed deeply, rubbing his temples. "It's not that we don't understand, Mr. Arc. It's just... this is our home. We can't simply give up our autonomy."

Sienna's eyes flashed with anger. "And what guarantee do we have that your terms will lead to peace? How can we trust that this isn't just another form of subjugation?"

Jaune met her gaze evenly. "The guarantee lies in mutual cooperation and transparency. To work together and ensure that our communities can thrive. I'm not asking for submission. I'm asking for a partnership. We need to find common ground and build from there."

Blake, finally finding her voice, spoke up. "Jaune, there has to be another way. Menagerie has suffered so much already. Can't we find a solution that respects our independence and addresses your concerns?"

Jaune's eyes remained bland as he looked at Blake. "Blake, I wish it were that simple. But the reality is, without significant changes, we can't ensure lasting peace. This isn't about taking your home — it's about creating a shared future where both humans and Faunus can live without fear."

Sienna clenched her fists, clearly struggling with the implications of Jaune's words. "This isn't just about policy — it's about trust. How can we trust that you won't turn on us the moment it's convenient?"

Jaune's expression hardened, his voice taking on a cold, matter-of-fact tone as if he heard something just outrageous. "You speak of trust when your 'organization', your people, are responsible for the very actions that brought us to this point. I understand your cause, but the methods the White Fang employed have brought death and suffering to both Humans and Faunus alike."

He paused, letting his words hang in the air before continuing with a touch of disdain. "If you need proof of our intentions, consider this: we are here to negotiate. If we truly intended to subjugate you, we would have sent Atlas and Mistral airships to force our will upon you while you are weak and helpless, just recovering from your civil war. But they sent me here to sit at this table instead, talking, trying to find a peaceful solution. That is our gesture of trust. You speak about this trust when you have NOTHING to show us for it either," Jaune's response was firm. "High Leader Sienna Khan, trust is built over time and through actions. We start by working together on smaller initiatives, rebuilding trust step by step. It's not going to be easy, but it's the only way forward. I cannot compromise on this. Mistral, the people that died, human and faunus alike, will not stand for anything less."

The room fell silent, each person grappling with the hard truths laid out before them. Ruby, Weiss, Blake, Qrow, and Pyrrha watched Jaune with unease.

Ghira finally spoke, his voice resolute. "We will need time to discuss this further, Mr. Arc. These are not decisions we can make lightly."

Jaune nodded in agreement. "Of course. Take the time you need. I'm here to facilitate and support this process, not to dictate terms. Our goal is a peace, one that benefits both our peoples. But we can't talk about peace when you even try to understand our side either."

As the meeting adjourned, the parties leave. Sienna Khan walked away with her posse while Ghira Belladonna sat on the table alongside Kali and the members advising him.

Jaune Arc left the meeting room and sat on the black couch in the entrance hall of the Belladonna household, scrolling through his messages on his Scroll. The light-colored wood floor and the creamy plaster walls with wooden lattice railings filled with leafy plants and maroon flowers gave the room a serene atmosphere.

Blake approached, her expression troubled. "Jaune, why does Menagerie have to be under Mistral or Atlas? Isn't there another way?"

Jaune looked up, his gaze steady. "At the moment, Mistral feels the need to be repaid."

Blake's eyes flashed with anger. "Repaid? You make it sound like we're some kind of debt to be collected. Menagerie has suffered enough."

"It's not about greed, Blake," Jaune replied coolly. "It's about Mistral's pain. The White Fang's actions have left deep scars, and Mistral is seeking some form of justice."

Blake shook her head, her voice rising. "But this will only lead to exploitation! Humans will take advantage of us."

Jaune didn't flinch, his expression remaining impassive. "Most likely."

Blake's frustration boiled over. "How can you say that so casually? You're supposed to be negotiating for peace, not more suffering."

Jaune sighed, putting his Scroll aside and meeting Blake's gaze. "I'm trying to balance the scales, Blake. Mistral won't just forget what happened. If we can find a way to integrate Menagerie into the fold, maybe we can prevent future conflicts. But I'm not naïve. I know it won't be easy, and yes, there will be challenges. But isn't that better than endless war?"

Blake clenched her fists, struggling to find the right words. "There has to be another way. We can't just surrender our autonomy because of the actions of a few extremists."

Jaune nodded slowly. "I understand your frustration. Believe me, I do. But this is the reality we're dealing with. We need to find a compromise that acknowledges the harm done while building a foundation for peace. It's not perfect, but it's a start."

Blake took a deep breath, trying to steady herself. "I just... I don't want to see my home. We just ended a civil war and now this!?"

Jaune's expression remained placid. "That's why they sent me here for."

They stand still in silence for a moment, the weight of their conversation hanging heavily in the air. The distant sounds of the ongoing discussions filtered through the hall.

Blake finally spoke, her voice quieter. "I hope you're right, Jaune. I really do."

Blake then left the hall, leaving Jaune with Ruby, Weiss, Pyrrha, and Qrow. Weiss folded her arms, her expression skeptical. "What are Atlas's intentions, Jaune?"

Jaune leaned back, locking his gaze with Weiss. "Weiss, you understand Atlas and the SDC even more than I do. Do I really need to spell it out for you?"

"They want Dust? Here? In Menagerie?"

Jaune nodded. "Exactly. Currently, the Mistral Trading Company and the Schnee Dust Company are hoping I get Menagerie to agree to our terms. Despite most of Menagerie being desert, they believe there's Dust to be found. They want that as payment for the help they gave."

Qrow snorted. "So they want to take advantage of this situation?"

"Afraid so," Jaune affirmed. "But that's business. Honestly, it's the only reason they agreed to help the refugees. They want benefits, and this was the best course of action."

Weiss's eyes widened with indignation. "That's... that's exploitation!"

Jaune's expression remained stony. "Nothing is free, Weiss. People don't agree to things unless they get something out of it. You really underestimate how much was needed. If we didn't agree to this, thousands of Faunus — men, women, the old, and the young — would have starved."

Weiss opened her mouth to argue, but Jaune continued, his voice hardening. "Do you know what happens when refugees are negatively affected? Grimm is attracted to negative emotions. When Grimm attack, they don't stop at one settlement. The refugee crisis is an emotion bomb that would attract Grimm, creating a cycle of destruction."

Jaune stood up, towering over Weiss, his eyes fierce. "Should I let this bomb go off, Weiss? Should I stand by, looking for an ideal solution when there isn't one to give? It didn't help that a certain Raven Branwen raided villages, forcing settlements to flee to Mistral City. This caused shortages of materials, and now we have thousands of displaced people on the brink of becoming bait for Grimm, with nowhere to go."

Weiss faltered, the reality of the situation sinking in. Jaune's voice lowered, but his tone was still steely. "Get real, Weiss. This isn't about ideals. It's about survival. We do what we have to, to prevent further chaos and suffering. It's not perfect, but it's the best we can do right now."

Ruby, Pyrrha, and Qrow watched the exchange in silence, understanding the gravity of Jaune's words. The room seemed to grow colder, the weight of the situation pressing down on everyone.

Jaune finally sat back down, his expression grim. "This is the reality we face. If we want to build a future, we have to deal with the present, no matter how ugly it is. This is the best compromise we can get. I can say we just trust love and all of that, but will that feed them? Will that give them wages? Will that give them the security they are looking for?"

Weiss nodded slowly, her gaze thoughtful. "I understand, Jaune. But... is Winter involved in this?"

Jaune's expression softened slightly. "Yes, she is. Winter is currently managing the security around Menagerie. It's part of Atlas's contribution to the peacekeeping efforts."

Weiss nodded again, a flicker of concern crossing her features. "I see. Thank you for letting me know."

Jaune gave her a reassuring smile. "Anytime, Weiss."

Weiss then quiets down, seeing Jaune's change in expression while Ruby chimes in. "Hey Jaune, can I ask you for a favor?"

Jaune's brow furrowed in concern. "Of course, Ruby. What's wrong?"

Ruby tried to muster a smile, her voice wavering slightly. "It's... it's Yang. She got a bad injury during the fight, and... she lost an arm. I was wondering... if you could... maybe regrow it for her?"

Jaune's expression was somber. "Oh Ruby, I'm so sorry to hear that. But... I can't." He paused, searching for the right words. "I can't regrow limbs. But I can help accelerate her healing process if she needs it."

Ruby's shoulders slumped slightly, disappointment clear in her silver eyes. "Oh... I see. Thanks anyway, Jaune."

Jaune reached out, placing a comforting hand on Ruby's shoulder. "Hey, she's tough. She'll pull through this. And you'll be here to support her every step of the way."

Ruby managed a small nod, her gaze downcast. "Yeah, you're right. Thanks, Jaune."

With a determined look, Ruby turned to Weiss, her demeanor changing to mimic her friend. "Come on, Weiss. Let's go find some coffee."

Weiss blinked in surprise, surprised by Ruby's sudden change in behavior. "Uh, sure, Ruby."

As Ruby and Weiss left the room, Jaune watched them go. Turning back to Pyrrha and Qrow, Jaune's face changed again as he settled back into his seat. Qrow's gaze bore into him with intensity. "So, Arc," Qrow began, his voice serious, "what do you know about Raven's powers?"

Jaune met Qrow's gaze evenly, his expression unreadable. "Raven's Branwen's powers? I'm sure they're complicated," he replied vaguely, choosing his words carefully. "But it's not really my place to say."

Qrow raised an eyebrow, his curiosity piqued. "Complicated how?"

Jaune's tone was measured. "Well, let's just say she has abilities that are... unique."

Qrow leaned forward, his expression intent. "Unique how? Can you be more specific?"

Jaune remained unfazed, his demeanor calm and composed. He was looking at Qrow, but at the time wasn't. "I'm afraid that's all I can say, Mr. Branwen. Whatever Raven's powers is not my business."

Qrow studied Jaune for a moment longer before leaning back, a thoughtful look crossing his features. "Fair enough," he conceded, his tone laced with curiosity. "But if you ever do decide to share more, I'll be all ears."

Jaune nodded in acknowledgment, his gaze steady. "I'll keep that in mind, Mr. Branwen. But I'm not particularly interested in what you two do. I'm unfortunately swamped with work and have no time for it."

As Jaune remained indifferent to Qrow's probing. A flicker of annoyance crossed Qrow's face. "You know, Arc," Qrow began, his voice tinged with irritation, "you're playing a dangerous game here. Acting like this won't do you any favors."

Jaune merely chuckled, his demeanor unchanged. "Oh, Mr. Branwen, you really need to work on your people skills," he remarked casually, his tone laced with amusement.

Qrow's frustration simmered beneath the surface, his eyes narrowing. "You think you're so clever, don't you?" he retorted, his voice sharp. "But let me remind you, Arc. Ozpin won't take kindly to you prying into matters that don't concern you."

Jaune's laughter rang out, echoing in the room. "Pry? What do you mean? I was simply at the right place and the wrong time," he replied, his tone light but with an underlying edge. "I already said I don't care about Headmaster's Ozpin and you want to threaten me about it? You don't make sense. Are you drunk, Sir? I can use my semblance. It helps."

Qrow backed away, fearing that amping his Semblance would once again would cause another string of misfortunes. "No need," he turns to Pyrrha. "Can you talk to this guy?"

Qrow walked away, clearly annoyed.

As the awkward silence settled between them, Jaune leaned forward slightly, breaking the tension. "So, Miss Nikos," he began, his voice gentle but formal, "how are you holding up?"

Pyrrha met Jaune's gaze, a faint smile tugging at the corners of her lips. "I'm... managing, Jaune," she replied, her tone soft but tinged with sadness. "It's been a difficult time, but I'm trying to stay strong."

Jaune nodded. "I can only imagine," he murmured, his voice filled with empathy.

Pyrrha's voice wavered slightly as she asked, "Jaune, are you... mad at me?"

Jaune turned to her, his expression soft but tinged with a hint of sorrow. "Mad?" he repeated, his voice quiet. "No, Pyrrha, I'm not mad. I could never be mad at you." He paused, his gaze drifting momentarily as he collected his thoughts. "But I'd be lying if I said I wasn't disappointed. When everything happened at Beacon... when you chose to... I don't know. I guess I just wish you had said something. Anything. Even Ren and Nora did… and yet you didn't."

Pyrrha's eyes glistened with unshed tears as she listened to Jaune's words. "I'm sorry, Jaune," she whispered, her voice barely above a whisper.

"It's okay, Pyrrha," Jaune reassured her, his tone gentle. "I've had tough times before. And I mean, I saw it coming. I cheated my way into Beacon and got found out. Anyway, my sister Saph was there to pick me up when I needed it. And somehow, here I am, handling negotiations." He offered her a small, sad smile. "Somehow I made it."

Pyrrha nodded, her shoulders sagging. "I'm glad you became a Huntsman, Jaune," she said softly, her voice filled with genuine warmth.

Jaune smiled slightly at her words. "Thanks, Pyrrha," he replied, a hint of gratitude in his tone. "I never expected Atlas to give me this license, but it's necessary for what I'm doing here. And, well, I'd be lying if I said I didn't want it either."

His expression grew serious as he continued, "But Pyrrha, you need to be careful. Trusting Ozpin blindly... it's not a good idea. And I'm not just saying that because he expelled me. There's more to it than that."

Pyrrha's brow furrowed in concern as she regarded Jaune. "What do you mean?"

Jaune hesitated for a moment before responding. "Just... be cautious, okay?"

Pyrrha nodded solemnly, her gaze locking with Jaune's. "I will, Jaune. Thank you."

Standing up from his seat, Jaune took a step closer to Pyrrha, his eyes filled with sincerity. "And one more thing, Pyrrha," he said, his voice earnest. "Stay in touch with Nora and Ren. They'll lift the world for you. And remember, they think of you as family. You don't have to face whatever fight you're in alone."

Pyrrha's lips quirked up in a small smile, touched by Jaune's words. "Thank you, Jaune," she replied softly. "But… why... why are you being so lenient, Jaune?" she asked, her voice tinged with confusion.

Jaune met her gaze, his expression contemplative. "If this were before all of this," he began, gesturing vaguely to their current circumstances, "maybe I wouldn't be as calm as I am now. I might have cursed and raged on." He paused, his gaze drifting momentarily as he searched for the right words. "But recently, I met someone who lost good friends and turned into a bitter old man who practically rusted himself in regret. And it got me thinking... do I really want to stay mad?"

A somber expression crossed Jaune's features as he continued, "People come and go, Pyrrha. And I'd rather not be the guy who ends up regretting it, sitting alone by a campfire, drowning in sorrows and regrets, thinking about my fate, my convictions, the weight of it all, and my failures of who I wanted to be… stuck in some beach in a land of madness."

He glanced away, his voice barely above a whisper as he added, "But that doesn't mean I can just go back to being the same. You chose your destiny over our friendship, Pyrrha. And while I can respect that... it's still hard for me."

As Jaune's words settled between them, Pyrrha nodded slowly, a mix of understanding and regret in her eyes.

"Good luck, Jaune."

"You too," Jaune offered his hands. "Stay safe, Pyrrha."

She reached out, her hand meeting Jaune's in a firm shake.

In that moment, Pyrrha couldn't help but reflect on how much they had both changed.

They were no longer the wide-eyed teenagers they once were.

Instead, they were now young adults, burdened with the weight of responsibility and the complexities of the world around them. Pyrrha couldn't shake the feeling of melancholy that settled over her. They had come so far from their days at Beacon, and yet they had also drifted apart.

With a small yet sad smile, Pyrrha released Jaune's hand. With a last nod, Jaune turned and excused himself, leaving Pyrrha alone with her thoughts as she contemplated his words and the weight of their shared past.

He did not look back, his eyes already on his Scroll.

Pyrrha's thoughts then drifted to a place of wistful longing, a fleeting desire for a reality where the trials thrusted on her had never come to pass. In this imagined world, they were merely students at Beacon, blissfully unaware of the events that awaited them.

No Maidens.

No Relics.

No Salem.

But as quickly as the thought entered her mind, Pyrrha pushed it away, shaking her head as if to dispel the notion. She knew that dwelling on such fantasies would only bring her pain. The past was set in stone, and no amount of wishing could change it.

With a heavy sigh, Pyrrha refocused her thoughts on the present, reminding herself that dwelling on what could have been served no purpose.

Because, just like Jaune had said, she had already chosen a long time ago.

And when she made that choice.

The arrow was loosed, and it could not be called back.