Glynda pulled on her wide-brimmed hat, its brim casting a shadow over her face, her shoulder leaning lightly on her partner, Jaune. The sun was just beginning to dip below the horizon, painting the sky with hues of orange and pink. She blinked away the glare and opened her scroll, reading the excited messages from her sister, Cinder. A smile spread across her face, softening her usually stern features.

Jaune, noticing the change in her expression, asked, "That Cindy?"

Glynda nodded. "Yup. She's… positively beaming. It's been quite a while. We don't visit her a lot."

Jaune crossed his arms, a thoughtful frown on his face. "She's different… too different… huh."

Glynda raised an eyebrow. She had grown accustomed to her partner's somewhat odd comments. "Mother… is quite… um, biased about how she raised Cinder… then again, she deserves it."

Jaune leaned down, his face close to hers. Glynda's eyebrow arched higher, and she gave him a quick peck on the cheek. His face turned a bright shade of red, and he quickly looked around to see if anyone had noticed.

"Glyn… we're in public," he muttered, embarrassed.

Glynda smiled as if nothing had happened. "Well, she's doing fine. I think she has more or less forgotten what happened to her… honestly, I feel like Mother tends to refer to her as her baby-daughter."

Jaune raised a brow. "Baby-daughter?"

Glynda sighed, her eyes reflecting a mix of affection and sadness. "Cindy tends to be somewhat clingy. And Mother feels like she has to compensate for the suffering she went through."

Jaune looked at her with a teasing glint in his eye. "Are you jealous?"

"Goodness, no, how can I be?" Glynda laughed softly. "I think she truly deserves it… besides, I have someone who treats me well enough not to be starved of love."

"I try my best," Jaune replied, his voice warm.

Glynda snorted and then held tightly to Jaune's arm, not minding some of the stares they were getting. The affectionate gesture made Jaune's heart swell, and he leaned into her touch, savoring the moment.

After a few hours, their airship arrived in Patch. The island was relatively secluded, with heavily forested areas surrounding the small town. Many Grimm had been spotted in the forests of Patch, including a large number of smaller Beowolves and Ursa. Despite the dangers, the island was home to two schools that trained future Huntsmen and Huntresses: Signal Academy and Patch's Combat School.

As Glynda and Jaune disembarked from the airship, they began to make their way to the residence where Cinder was staying. As they neared the home, Glynda's instincts suddenly kicked in, and she turned just in time to catch a little girl rushing at them.

Lifting the giggling child into her arms, Glynda couldn't help but smile at the grin on the little girl's face. "Cinder Goodwitch, do not launch yourself at people."

Cinder beamed at her. "It's okay, sis. You always catch me. Wow, you really do dress like a witch like Mama does."

"Do you have a problem with that?" Glynda asked, her tone teasing.

"No, it suits you and big bro looks," Cinder replied, her eyes shining with admiration.

Jaune ruffled her hair affectionately. "How are you doing, Cindy?"

"I'm fine. I miss you two. My classmates can't shut up about you guys and it makes me miss you more," Cinder said, her voice full of pride.

Jaune chuckled. "Are we that famous?"

Glynda shook her head. "Jaune, you realize that we've been quite active?"

"Are we?" Jaune looked genuinely puzzled.

"Although we hoped not to… it's unavoidable," Glynda said with a resigned sigh. "Well, it brought good and bad news."

Jaune frowned. "I hope we don't attract too much attention."

"I think it's too late for that," Cinder said with a mischievous grin. "Nice hat, sis."

"Thank you, I think it suits me," Glynda replied, her smile widening.

Cinder then led them back to the Goodwitch family residence in Patch. It was a modern two-story house with a part of the roof designed as a sitting area. The house was surrounded by a lush garden, and the scent of blooming flowers filled the air.

"Is Mother not around?" Glynda asked as they entered. She was expecting some talk about grandchildren and a scolding.

Cinder grinned. "Mama said you two might need some time alone. Do you want to read the letter she left?"

Glynda sighed, massaging her forehead. "Does Mother not know what an email is?"

Cinder handed over the letter. As Glynda read it, her face and ears turned red. Jaune took a look at the letter and coughed twice, his ears also burning with embarrassment.

"What is it? Let me see!" Cinder demanded, reaching for the letter.

Glynda lifted the letter out of her reach and barely contain her voice. "Does she hope to have a football team?"

"Quite… ambitious," Jaune murmured, still blushing.

Glynda muttered under her breath, "Not that I mind… but it's just too much."

Cinder looked innocently at Jaune. "What does Mama want?"

Jaune laughed it off and ruffled her hair again, leaving Cinder confused. The three of them made their way into the house. It was cozy and filled with warm colors, family photos adorning the walls. It was mostly her mother and Cindy doing silly poses. They settled into the living room, the soft cushions of the sofa inviting them to relax.

After a while, Glynda and Jaune began to discuss the situation of Grimm in Patch with Cinder. They wanted to ensure the area was safe.

"Do you really want to work?" Cinder asked, a hint of disappointment in her voice.

"Just to make it safe," Jaune replied, his tone reassuring.

"That is correct… but remember darling, we're here to take it easy," Glynda added, giving Cinder a comforting smile.

Jaune nodded and placed his helm on the side while Cinder carried Glynda's hat and wore it around. Glynda watched her sister, feeling a swell of pride. Cinder was growing up to be a fine girl, free from the bitterness of her childhood.

They spent the evening catching up, sharing stories, and laughing together. Glynda and Jaune's affection for each other was clear at every glance and touch, their bond strong and unwavering, which made Cinder tease them a lot.

As the night fell, they sat on the roof, watching the stars twinkle in them. The cool breeze carried the scent of the forest, and the sound of crickets filled the air. Glynda leaned against Jaune, her head resting on his shoulder.

"This is nice," she murmured, her voice filled with contentment. "No cult… just quiet."

"Yeah, it is," Jaune agreed, wrapping an arm around her.

Cinder sat next to them, her eyes wide with wonder as she gazed at the stars. "Do you think we'll always be like this?"

"Of course," Glynda replied, her voice firm. "We're a family, and families stick together."

Jaune nodded. "No matter what."

Cinder smiled, her heart filled with warmth. She felt safe and loved, knowing that her sister and Jaune would always be there for her.

As the night grew darker, they made their way back inside. Glynda tucked Cinder into bed, placing a gentle kiss on her forehead.

"Goodnight, Cindy," she whispered.

"Goodnight, sis. Goodnight, Jaune," Cinder replied, her eyes already closing.

"Goodnight, Cindy," Jaune said softly, his expression complex.

Glynda and Jaune made their way to their room, the events of the day playing in their minds. They were grateful for the moments of peace and happiness, cherishing the time they had with Cinder and the time to rest..

Lying in bed, Glynda turned to Jaune, her eyes reflecting the depth of her feelings. "Thank you for being here with me."

Jaune smiled, his hand reaching out to hold hers. "I wouldn't be anywhere else."

The morning sun filtered through the curtains, casting a warm glow in the room. Glynda and Jaune woke up to the sound of birds singing outside. They got ready for the day, their movements synchronized from years of being together.

Cinder was already up, dressed in her school uniform, her face bright with excitement. "Are you guys coming to see my school today?"

"Of course," Glynda replied, smoothing out Cinder's hair. "We wouldn't miss it for the world."

Jaune nodded. "Lead the way, Cindy."

As they walked to the school, Glynda and Jaune held hands, their fingers laced together. Cinder skipped ahead, her laughter filling the air. They reached the school, where students and teachers greeted them warmly. Glynda and Jaune were well-known and respected huntsmen, their presence bringing a sense of security to the community.

They spent the day visiting classrooms, talking to the instructors, and watching Cinder interact with her friends. Glynda felt a sense of pride as she saw how well her sister was doing, her heart swelling with love.

In the afternoon, they took a walk through the forest, the path dappled with sunlight. They encountered a few Grimm, but Glynda and Jaune easily dispatched them, their movements swift and precise. Cinder watched in awe, her admiration for her sister and Jaune growing even more.

As the day came to an end, they returned to the Goodwitch residence, tired but happy. They sat down for dinner, the table filled with delicious food and laughter. Jaune's cooking had improved, and she herself felt like it'll take time before she can match his skill.

As Glynda sat on the couch, a cup of tea in her hands, Jaune sat across from her, a thoughtful expression on his face.

Jaune broke the silence first, his voice gentle yet tinged with curiosity. "So, what do you make of this message from them?"

Glynda sipped her tea thoughtfully before replying. "It is rather intriguing. You mentioned they might be a branch of your family, correct?"

Jaune nodded. "That's what I think. The surname Arc isn't extremely common, and given the details, it seems plausible. It seems they have quite a large family — seven daughters and one son."

Glynda's eyebrows rose in surprise. "Eight children? That's quite the family indeed. And the boy's name… Jaune, you said?"

Jaune chuckled. "Yeah, funny coincidence, huh? They seem to think I'm their uncle. I suppose, in a way, they are family."

Glynda tilted her head, studying Jaune. There was something lonely in the way he talked, as if recalling something he had lost somewhat. Then again, Jaune always refused to talk about his family, and even when she pressed him, she knew that he sincerely didn't remember their faces anymore.

"It's fascinating, really. Eight children…" Her voice trailed off, and her hand subconsciously moved to her stomach. The thought of having children of her own had always been an abstract concept, something she thought about in the far-off future. But now, faced with the reality of Jaune's possible extended family, the idea felt more immediate and real.

Noticing her gesture, Jaune reached out and took her hand, his touch warm and reassuring. "Glynda, if this is worrying you, you don't need to. I'll respect whatever decision you make."

Glynda looked into his eyes, seeing the sincerity and love there. "It's not that I'm worried, exactly. It's just… That's a lot to take in."

Jaune smiled softly. "It is. But we don't have to decide anything right now. We're still young, and there's plenty of time to figure out what we want."

Glynda glanced down at the ring on her finger, the symbol of their commitment to each other. She was proud of her life as a Huntress, the sense of purpose it gave her. But the idea of a family, of raising children with Jaune, held its own appeal.

"I do love the life we have," she said quietly. "Being a Huntress, it's part of who I am. But I also feel that we're still young, and there's so much more we could do, both as Huntsmen and as a family."

Jaune nodded, understanding her dilemma. "We don't have to give up one for the other, you know. We can find a balance. So far, we've always been good at that."

Glynda smiled, feeling a sense of relief wash over her. "You're right. We have time to figure it all out. And whatever we decide, I know we'll do it together."

Jaune squeezed her hand gently. "Exactly. We're a team, and we'll face everything together."

The sound of a bird chirping outside drew their attention to the window. The view of the garden, blooming with vibrant flowers. Glynda set her tea down and leaned back against the couch, her hand still in Jaune's. "Tell me more about this branch family. What else did the message say?"

Jaune shifted slightly, getting more comfortable and somewhat melancholic. "Well, they mentioned that they'd love to meet us. It seems they've heard quite a bit about us, probably from some of the same sources that have made us… well, a bit famous."

Glynda chuckled. "Our reputation does precede us, doesn't it?"

"It does," Jaune agreed, smiling. "They were very respectful in their message, and they seem genuinely interested in connecting. I think it could be nice to meet them, see what they're like."

"I agree," Glynda said, nodding. "It would be interesting to learn more about your extended family."

Jaune's eyes sparkled with excitement. "I hope so..."

As the morning turned into afternoon, Glynda got up to prepare lunch, the familiar routine grounding her. Jaune joined her in the kitchen, the two of them working side by side in a comfortable rhythm. They moved around each other with ease, their years of partnership clear in the way they anticipated each other's movements.

"I was thinking," Jaune said as he chopped vegetables, "if we do decide to meet them, we should bring something from here. A gift, maybe, to show our appreciation and goodwill."

"That's a lovely idea," Glynda agreed, stirring a pot on the stove. "Perhaps something homemade? We could bake some treats or bring some of the local produce."

Jaune nodded. "I like that. It would be a nice gesture and a way to share a bit of our life with them. I don't want to meet them as some big scary Huntsman…"

As they continued preparing lunch, their conversation shifted to other topics. When lunch was ready, they sat down at the dining table, enjoying the meal they had prepared together. The food was simple but delicious.

After lunch, they moved to the living room, settling back onto the couch. Glynda picked up the message again, reading it over once more. "It's strange to think about how much family you might have that we don't even know."

"It is," Jaune agreed. "But it's also exciting. It's like rediscovering a whole new part of our lives."

Glynda looked at him, her eyes thoughtful. "Do you ever wonder what it would be like to have a big family?"

Jaune leaned back, considering her question. "Sometimes. I think about what it would be like to have a house full of kids, the noise and the chaos, but also the love and the joy."

Glynda's gaze softened. "I think about it, too. It's an enormous responsibility, but it's also something beautiful."

"It is," Jaune said, his voice filled with conviction. "But whatever we decide, we'll make it work. Together."

Glynda smiled, feeling a sense of peace settle over her. How could her man still be lovely despite the years?

The peace of the cozy home was interrupted by the sound of the doorbell, a melodic chime that resonated through the house.

"I'll get it," Jaune said, rising from the couch. Glynda nodded, her attention momentarily shifting back to the thoughts that had been occupying her mind all day.

Opening the door, Jaune was greeted by a sight that momentarily took him by surprise. Standing on the porch were Summer Rose and Taiyang Xiao Long, along with their two daughters. Little Yang, full of energy, stood by her father's side, her eyes wide with curiosity. In Taiyang's arms was an even tinier Ruby, fast asleep, her small face nestled against her father's shoulder.

Jaune's surprise quickly turned into a gentle smile. "Summer, Taiyang, it's good to see you. Please, come in."

Glynda, hearing the familiar voices, stood up and approached the door. Her expression shifted from surprise to a more disciplined look as she addressed Taiyang. "Taiyang. Summer. It's been a while. Please, come in."

The family stepped inside, and Glynda couldn't help but notice the stark contrast between Taiyang's relaxed demeanor and her own formal attitude. However, her eyes softened as she saw the children. Cinder, who had been diligently working on her homework at the dining table, looked up and immediately brightened at the sight of Yang.

"Big sis!" Yang called out, her little legs moving as fast as they could towards Cinder.

Cinder smiled and stood up, welcoming Yang with open arms. "Hey, Yang! Come on, let's go play."

Yang eagerly followed Cinder, her tiny legs barely able to keep up. Meanwhile, Jaune gently took Ruby from Taiyang and placed her on the couch, where she continued to sleep peacefully.

As everyone settled in, Glynda couldn't help but voice her thoughts as she looked at Yang and then at Ruby. "I still can't believe that Raven ran away from her responsibilities. It's... appalling."

Summer's smile turned bitter as she responded, "Please, be gentle with Raven. She had her reasons, even if we don't agree with them."

Glynda's expression hardened. "I'll think about it. But she has a lot to answer for."

Sensing the tension, Jaune quickly stepped in. "Let's not dwell on that right now. How about some tea and snacks?"

He disappeared into the kitchen, leaving Glynda and their guests in the living room. Glynda took a deep breath, trying to calm herself. "I don't blame you, Summer, for stepping up. Someone had to."

Summer's expression softened, the gratitude clear in her eyes. "Thank you, Glynda. It hasn't been easy, but we're managing."

Glynda nodded. "At least you and Tai took responsibility. It's more than I can say for some."

Summer then smiled playfully, her mood lightening. "I'm actually surprised you two still don't have children."

Glynda raised an eyebrow. "Our work is demanding. There simply hasn't been time."

"And I thank you two for it. Your work has been allowing us to say with the kids," Summer then said with a teasing glint in her eye. "Well, now that you're in Patch, maybe you could try?"

Glynda's response was calm and measured. "We'll let the chips fall as they please."

Jaune returned with a tray of tea and snacks, placing it on the coffee table. "Tea's ready."

As they all helped themselves, Summer's expression turned serious. "Actually, there's something else I wanted to talk to you about. Have you considered joining Ozpin's inner circle? We could use more skilled Huntsmen like you—"

Glynda's eyes narrowed, her tone firm. "We're not discussing that. Our decision is final."

Summer sighed but didn't push further. The room fell into a comfortable silence as they sipped their tea, the only sound being the gentle breathing of little Ruby, who was still fast asleep on the couch.

Cinder and Yang returned from playing, their faces flushed with excitement. Yang climbed onto Taiyang's lap, and Cinder sat beside Glynda, looking up at her with bright eyes while gingerly reaching out to the snacks.

"Did you finish your homework?" Glynda asked Cinder gently.

"Yes, sis," Cinder replied, showing her the completed work.

Glynda smiled and ruffled Cinder's hair affectionately. "Good job."

As the evening progressed, the conversation turned to lighter topics. Taiyang shared stories of Yang's latest adventures, making everyone laugh, while Summer recounted Ruby's adorable antics.

As the sun set and the sky turned a deep shade of purple, Summer and Taiyang prepared to leave. Glynda and Jaune walked them to the door, little Ruby still fast asleep in Taiyang's arms.

"Thank you for having us," Summer said, giving Glynda a warm hug.

"You're always welcome here," Glynda replied, her tone sincere.

Taiyang shook Jaune's hand firmly. "We should do this more often."

Jaune nodded. "Absolutely. Take care, Taiyang. Summer."

With final goodbyes, the Xiao Long-Rose family left, leaving Glynda and Jaune standing in the doorway, watching them disappear into the twilight.

Glynda closed the door and turned to Jaune, her expression thoughtful. "It was good to see them. And the kids… they're adorable. I still can't believe Raven would, ugh, that girl seriously is just—-"

Jaune smiled, wrapping an arm around her waist. "Yeah, they are. Makes you think, doesn't it?"

"It does," Glynda admitted, leaning into his embrace. "But we have time. And whatever we decide, I know we'll make it work."

Jaune kissed her gently. "Together."

They stood there for a moment, wrapped in each other's arms, finding comfort and strength in their bond.

"Um, should I leave?" Cinder asked, making the two's faces go tomato red.

As Summer and Taiyang walked away from Glynda and Jaune's home, their daughters in tow, the evening air felt refreshing. Yang chattered excitedly about her time with Cinder, while Taiyang carried the still-sleeping Ruby in his arms. Summer, holding Yang's hand, cast a thoughtful glance back at the house.

"They seem to be doing well," Summer remarked, her voice tinged with warmth. "But I can't help but be surprised they don't have kids yet."

Taiyang glanced at her, his expression thoughtful. "How could they, with everything they've been dealing with? That cult has been a nightmare for the past few years. I'm just glad they're fine."

Summer sighed, feeling a pang of guilt. "You're right. They took so much on themselves, deciding to handle it alone. It's a heavy burden."

Taiyang nodded, his eyes serious. "It is. They've always been the type of shoulder responsibility, though. I just wish they didn't have to do it alone."

Summer smiled bitterly. "I don't understand really… why they are so hesitant to join Oz…"

"Who knows?" Tai said.

They then walked in silence for a moment, the only sound being the rustling of leaves in the gentle breeze. Summer's thoughts drifted back to their earlier conversation, and she frowned slightly. "I wonder what makes them so against joining Ozpin's circle."

Taiyang's expression turned thoughtful. "I think they have their reasons. Besides, I know about the mission."

Summer stopped in her tracks, looking at him in surprise. "You know about it? How?"

Taiyang gave her a small, knowing smile. "I'm a Huntsman, Summer. It doesn't take much for me to figure things out. Plus, I have my ways."

Summer felt a mix of emotions — surprise, guilt, and a deep sense of admiration for her husband. "I didn't want you to worry. You have enough on your plate. Wait… did Cinder snitch on me?"

"Shouldn't leave your scroll on the table… Yang opened it and asked for Cinder's help… and we'll I saw it," Taiyang's eyes softened as he looked at her. "I know you're out to save the world, Summer. And I admire you for it. But just don't forget about the people who love you."

Summer's heart ached at his words. She reached out and touched his arm, her eyes filled with sincerity. "I understand, Tai. I promise I won't forget."

He nodded, his expression serious but supportive. "Good. We're in this together, remember?"

Summer smiled, her heart lifting slightly. "Always."

As they continued their walk, Summer's gaze was drawn to the side. She noticed a black bird perched on a nearby tree, its beady eyes watching them intently. Suddenly, it took flight, disappearing into the dusky sky.