As the airship hummed and glide through the skies, Jaune sat in his seat, his gaze fixed on the scroll displaying his newly issued Huntsman License. It was a moment he had dreamed of for years, his aspirations, his hopes now in his hands. Yet, as he stared at the license, doubts gnawed at him.

Was he truly ready for this responsibility? Had he earned the right to bear the title of a Huntsman? Doubts swirled in his mind like storm clouds, casting shadows over him.

Give a man a Huntsman title and it feels like he's a graduate of the most prestigious college and he's all qualified for anything. And here it is because they want to 'improve' my qualifications. What a joke.

With a heavy sigh, Jaune reluctantly tucked his scroll away, crossing his arms over his chest as he leaned back in his seat. The familiar ache of uncertainty settled in the pit of his stomach. It didn't feel right, earning it just like that.

Glancing up, Jaune noticed Winter Schnee engaged in conversation with the General, her icy demeanor contrasting sharply with the warmth of the airship's cabin.

For a moment, he found himself captivated by the exchange, the weight of their words hanging heavy in the air like a tangible force.

As Winter turned her attention towards Jaune, her piercing gaze cutting through the air with a cool precision, she addressed him in her characteristic formal manner.

"Mr. Arc," she began, her voice crisp, "you seem lost in thought. Is there something on your mind?"

Jaune shifted comfortably under her scrutiny. "Just thinking about the task ahead, ma'am," he replied, his tone respectful but tinged with uncertainty. "It's a lot of responsibility, especially for someone like me who's only ever worked in the cities."

Winter regarded him with a subtle tilt of her head, her expression unreadable. "Experience comes in many forms, Mr. Arc," she said evenly. "Your time spent in your role has provided you with unique insights and skills that will prove invaluable in the negotiations."

"I hope you're right, ma'am," he replied, his voice tinged with doubt. "I just don't want to let anyone down."

A flicker of something akin to understanding softened Winter's steely demeanor, and she offered Jaune a rare, faint smile. "Trust in your experience, Mr. Arc," she said firmly. "And trust in yourself."

Jaune paused, his words hanging in the air as he weighed his next sentence. He straightened in his seat, adjusted his tie, his posture reflecting a touch of more confidence.

"Do not misunderstand. I have trust in myself and my experience," Jaune began, his voice steady and assured. "But we're dealing with issues that are rooted deeply in race and prejudice. A single negotiation isn't going to fix years of resentment and disagreement."

Winter regarded him with a subtle nod. "Indeed," she replied, her tone somber. "Such matters require a delicate touch and a keen understanding of the complexities involved."

Jaune hesitated for a moment, wondering if even has a faintest idea of it all, choosing his words carefully as he addressed Winter. "Ms. Schnee, I understand your role here representing the Schnee Dust Company and Atlas," he began, his tone respectful yet firm. "But it's no secret that not everyone shares the same eagerness for peace and cooperation."

Winter inclined her head slightly, acknowledging the truth in Jaune's words. "Indeed," she replied, her voice tinged with a hint of resignation. "Trust must be earned, especially in times of uncertainty and conflict. It is because we have to earn their trust that we intend to talk through this first."

Jaune nodded in agreement. "Exactly," he continued, his gaze unwavering. "And while I respect the methods of Atlas, there will be those who see our presence as a threat, much like the White Fang."

Jaune cleared his throat, his tone taking on a sharper edge as he broached a sensitive topic. "Ms. Schnee, I truly understand the necessity of your presence here," he began, his voice firm but measured. "But it's important to acknowledge that the reputation of the SDC, particularly among the people of Menagerie and the Faunus, is less than favorable."

Winter met his gaze evenly, her expression unreadable. "I am aware of the sentiments surrounding the SDC," she replied coolly, her demeanor unyielding. "However, my presence here is not solely to represent the interests of the company. It is to facilitate dialogue and foster understanding between our two nations."

Jaune nodded, acknowledging her point. "Indeed, it is clear you are aligned with Atlas's Military," he conceded, though his tone remained guarded. "But I cannot help but feel that your involvement may hinder rather than help the negotiation process. If it were up to me, I would not have recommended your presence at all."

There was a moment of silence as Winter considered his words, her gaze steady and unwavering. Then, to Jaune's surprise, a faint smile tugged at the corners of her lips, her eyes glinting with a quiet resolve.

"Your candor is appreciated, Mr. Arc," she replied, her tone softening slightly. "But rest assured, I am more than capable of handling any challenges that may arise. And if my presence can contribute even in the slightest to the prospect of peace, then I will consider it time well spent."

Jaune's thoughts were abruptly interrupted as a vision flashed before his eyes, like a dark cloud obscuring the horizon. In the depths of his mind's eye, he saw Jacques Schnee, standing tall and proud, a triumphant smirk playing across his lips.

"Oho, thank you, everyone, thank you. It's all because of you. It's a new day in Atlas. And as the newest member of the Council, I pledge to serve each and every citizen of Mantle and Atlas."

Jaune refocused and addressed Winter, his gaze steady but probing. "I can trust your word, Ms. Schnee," he said, his tone professional. "But can we trust the word of your father?"

Winter's expression remained composed, her icy demeanor betraying no hint of offense as she met Jaune's gaze head-on. She understood the weight of his question, the implications it carried for both her family and the negotiations at hand.

Leaning forward slightly, Jaune continued, his words measured. "My time working as a mediator has shown me that there are four root problems," he explained. "People disputes, issues with neighbors, property conflicts, and business disputes. And more often than not, the SDC or one of its affiliates is involved."

There was a pause as Winter absorbed his words, her features remaining impassive. She knew the reputation of the Schnee Dust Company and the complexities of its dealings, particularly in areas like Menagerie, where tensions ran high.

Finally, after a moment of contemplation, Winter spoke, her voice steady and unwavering. "I understand your concerns, Mr. Arc," she replied evenly. "And while I cannot speak for my father's actions, I can assure you my priority in these negotiations is to find common ground and work towards a peaceful resolution."

"Then let's hope this goes well."

As the airship glided steadily through the clouds, the pilot's voice crackled over the intercom, breaking the silence of the cabin. "Attention passengers. We are approaching Argus's military base. Please prepare for landing."

Jaune's attention was drawn to the window as he watched the reclining expanse of the military base come into view. He reached for his scroll, fingers tapping against the screen as he composed a message to his sister.

"May I have the permission to disembark in Argus to meet my sister?" Jaune requested, his message sent with a touch of urgency.

Winter, seated near him, glanced over at the message, her expression unreadable as she considered his request. After a moment's pause, she nodded in approval, her response swift and decisive.

"You have my permission, Mr. Arc," she replied, her tone businesslike yet accommodating. "But remember, we have a schedule to adhere to. Make sure you return promptly."

Jaune nodded in acknowledgment. With a quick word of thanks, he tucked his scroll away and turned his attention back to the approaching military base.

Jaune carefully balanced the small parcel on his arms as he made his way through the streets of Argus. Finally, Jaune arrived at his destination, standing before the familiar door of his sister's home. With a deep breath, he raised his hand and knocked, the sound echoing through the quiet neighborhood.

The door swung open, revealing Saphron standing there, a warm smile lighting up her face as she cradled her son, Adrian, in her arms. "Jaune!" she exclaimed, her voice filled with affection. "My baby brother, it's so good to see you!"

Jaune grinned in response, his eyes sparkling with fondness as he reached out to ruffle Adrian's hair, much to the young boy's annoyance. "Hey there, little guy," Jaune teased, earning a playful swat from Adrian in return.

As Saphron invited him inside, they exchanged pleasantries, catching up on each other's lives since their last meeting. But as Jaune carefully broached the topic of his presence in Argus, Saphron's expression shifted, concern flickering in her eyes.

"You're handling negotiations for Atlas?" she asked, her voice tinged with worry.

Jaune nodded solemnly, the weight of his responsibilities settling heavily on his shoulders. "Yes," he admitted, his tone serious. "It's a delicate situation, but I'm doing everything I can to ensure a peaceful resolution."

Saphron's concern only deepened at his words, but she reached out to place a reassuring hand on his arm. "Just promise me you'll be careful, Jaune," she said softly. "I don't want anything to happen to you."

With a grateful smile, Jaune nodded, his determination unwavering. "I promise," he replied, his gaze meeting hers with unwavering resolve. "I'll do whatever it takes to make sure everything turns out okay."

"Seriously, how have you been, Jaune?" she asked gently. "The last time I saw you, you were going through a lot after being expelled from Beacon and now you're doing these kinds of things.."

Jaune offered her a small, but reassuring smile. "I'm doing okay, Saph," he replied, his voice tinged with gratitude. "Actually, I have Terra to thank for helping me out. She offered me this job, and it's been keeping me busy."

Saphron nodded in understanding, though a hint of skepticism colored her expression. "Well, I'm glad to hear you're doing better," she said sincerely. "But you know, I can't help but think that the Headmaster had ulterior motives for expelling you. I sincerely believe he did it to separate you and Pyrrha."

Jaune's eyebrows shot up in surprise at his sister's blunt assessment. "Really?" he asked, a touch of incredulity in his voice. "But why would he do that? I can't imagine I would be much of a distraction."

Saphron snorted softly, a wry smile playing at the corners of her lips. "Oh, Jaune," she chuckled, shaking her head in amusement. "You may not see it, but you have a way of affecting people, especially those closest to you."

"I don't know, sounds farfetched. It's not like we were in some sort of relationshi—-"

Jaune's head aches.

He stands on the side, watching.

He sees Pyrrha glancing up, her gaze distant as she wrestles with her thoughts. "Do you believe in destiny?" she asks, her voice soft yet filled with uncertainty.

Jaune sees another him blink in surprise, caught off guard by the sudden shift in conversation. "Um... I-I don't know," he stammers, trying to gather his thoughts. "I guess that depends on how you view it."

Pyrrha nods, her expression thoughtful as a gentle breeze sweeps through the air, carrying two leaves away on its currents. "When I think of destiny," she begins, her voice tinged with reflection, "I don't think of a predetermined fate you can't escape. But rather... some sort of final goal, something you work towards your entire life."

"Okay," The other Jaune replies, nodding slowly. "Uh, yeah. I can see that, sure."

Pyrrha hesitates, her words coming haltingly as she struggles to articulate her thoughts. "Well... what would you do if something came along that you... never expected?" she asks, her voice tinged with uncertainty. "Something that had the potential to stand between you and your destiny?"

The other Jaune frowns, his brow furrowing in confusion. "Like what?" he presses, his concern clear in his voice.

"Or what if you could suddenly fulfill your destiny in an instant, but at the cost of who you were?" Pyrrha continues, her tone growing increasingly strained.

"Pyrrha, you're not making any sense," Jaune interjects, reaching out to place a comforting hand on her shoulder.

But Pyrrha recoils from his touch. Her expression twisted with anguish as tears well up in her eyes. "None of it makes sense! This isn't how things were supposed to happen!" she cries out, her voice cracking with emotion.

"I'm sorry! Please, I-I'm just trying to understand what's wrong," Jaune pleads, his own confusion mounting as he watches Pyrrha's distress unfold.

"I've always felt as though I was destined to become a Huntress - to protect the world..." Pyrrha trails off, her voice choked with emotion. "...and it's become increasingly clear to me that my feelings were right. But..." She turns to look at Jaune, her gaze filled with desperation. "...I don't know if I can do it."

"Of course you can," Jaune insists, his voice firm with conviction. "The Pyrrha Nikos I know would never back down from a challenge. And if you really believe it's your destiny to save the world..." He moves towards her, his expression resolute. "You can't let anything stand in your way."

But instead of bringing relief, Jaune's words seem to shatter Pyrrha even further. She covers her mouth with trembling hands, her shoulders shaking with silent sobs.

"Pyrrha?" The other Jaune's concern deepens as he watches her distress unfold.

"STOP!" Pyrrha cries out, her voice raw with anguish as she holds her hand out, unintentionally unleashing her Semblance in her anguish. A black energy surrounds Jaune's armor, pushing him back into the dining hall column with a resounding thud. He weakly watches her from his spot above until she opens her eyes and realizes what she has done.

"Jaune!" Pyrrha gasps, her voice filled with horror as she rushes to his side, letting the tears come at last. "I'm... I'm sorry..."

"Jaune? Baby bro? Are you okay?"

Saphron's voice snapped Jaune out of his trance, bringing him back to the present moment. He blinked, feeling the lingering effects of the vision dissipate as he focused on his sister's concerned expression.

"Yeah, I'm okay," Jaune assured her, though his voice carried a hint of fatigue. "Just been having these headaches lately."

Saphron's brows furrowed with worry, and she gently placed a hand on his shoulder. "I think you should rest," she suggested, her tone soft yet firm.

Taking her advice, Jaune glanced at his schedule and then back at his sister. "Okay... can you wake me before 1, sis?" he requested, already feeling the exhaustion weighing heavily on him.

"Of course, baby bro," Saphron replied with a reassuring smile, guiding Jaune to the nearby couch where he could rest. With a grateful nod, Jaune settled onto the cushions, closing his eyes but unable to find sleep.

Visions… of another time and place… always showing and speaking of things… that have passed and might never pass. Why does it matter when none of it happened here? I don't understand this at all… why do I have to endure this?