Threads of Fate Chapter 30, a Fate/stay night + RWBY Crossover fanfic

Disclaimer: Don't own either Rwby or Type Moon. So enjoy or don't

Chapter 30: Departures and New Beginnings

The station buzzed with the usual hustle and bustle: travelers hurrying to catch trains, vendors calling out last-minute deals, and the constant drone of announcements crackling through the speakers. Amid the clamor, Ruby and her friends stood together in a small circle, trying to stay focused despite the chaos surrounding them. The platform was sleek and modern, with polished tiles reflecting the sunlight that streamed in through the high windows. The Argus Limited, a state-of-the-art maglev train, hovered silently nearby—its smooth, silver body a stark contrast to the traditional trains of the past.

Ruby twirled Crescent Rose absently, her silver eyes scanning the crowd. "We've come a long way since Beacon," she said softly, more to herself than anyone else. Weiss nodded in agreement, though her expression was clouded with unease. Despite her usual poise, there was a subtle tension in her posture, a hint of dread as she thought about returning to Atlas.

"Yeah," Weiss murmured, adjusting the collar of her coat. "It's strange to think we're about to head even farther north… back to Atlas." Her voice faltered, and everyone noticed the hesitation. She quickly straightened up, trying to brush it off. "But it's where we need to be. If it means helping you all and stopping what's coming, then I'll face it."

The group exchanged glances, concern evident in their eyes. Before anyone could speak, Yang gave Weiss a reassuring nudge, her expression understanding. She knew how hard this was for Weiss but trusted her to handle it. However, Ruby couldn't ignore the unease in her partner's voice.

"Weiss… are you okay?" Ruby asked gently, stepping closer. Her usual upbeat energy was replaced by sincere worry as she searched Weiss's eyes for the truth.

Jaune, sensing the tension, chimed in with a soft voice, "If there's anything bothering you, we're here for you. You don't have to face Atlas alone."

Weiss's expression softened at their concern. She took a deep breath, releasing some of the tension in her shoulders. "Thank you, Ruby. Jaune. It's just… Atlas is complicated for me. There's a lot of history there—things I'm not exactly looking forward to facing. But I'll be okay. As long as we're together, I know we can handle whatever comes our way."

Ren nodded, offering a small, reassuring smile. "You're strong, Weiss. We'll support you every step of the way."

With that, the group shared a brief but warm moment of understanding. Weiss felt the knot in her chest loosen just a little, grateful for their support. Yang watched quietly from the side, proud of her partner for opening up, even if just a bit.

The train's magnetic hum grew slightly louder as it prepared for departure, the faint thrum beneath their feet a constant reminder of the time ticking away. Ruby tightened her grip on her weapon, her resolve firming. "This is it, everyone. We're ready for whatever comes next."

Despite the confidence in her words, an undercurrent of tension ran through the group. This journey felt different—more critical, more final. The once-familiar banter was muted by the understanding that they were leaving behind everything they knew, and stepping into a world that would demand even more from them.

As the minutes ticked by, Ruby's gaze drifted toward the others standing a bit further down the platform—Blake and Shirou, alongside Sun and Ilia. Their farewells were quieter, more intimate, and Ruby couldn't help but feel a pang of empathy for the choices they all had to make. The bonds they had formed, and the ones they might be leaving behind, weighed heavily on all of them.

Away from the larger group, Blake and Shirou stood with Sun and Ilia near a quieter section of the platform. The distant hum of the maglev train provided a subtle backdrop as they exchanged glances and lingering looks, each one carrying the weight of words left unsaid. For them, these goodbyes weren't just about parting ways—they were about accepting the changes they had undergone and the paths they were each destined to walk.

Blake adjusted her bow slightly, her golden eyes reflecting a mixture of gratitude and melancholy. "It's strange, you know?" she said quietly. "After everything we've been through, it feels like we're finally moving forward… but it's hard to say goodbye."

Sun grinned, though it didn't quite reach his eyes. "Yeah, but it's not really goodbye, right? We'll see each other again. You're still going to need me around to keep you on your toes."

Blake's lips curved into a small smile. "I'll miss that… but you have your own path to follow now."

Before the conversation could delve deeper, Ilia shifted uncomfortably, her gaze turning toward Shirou. There was a moment of hesitation before she finally spoke, her tone uncharacteristically soft. "Shirou… before I talk to Blake, there's something I need to say to you."

Shirou's expression remained neutral, but there was a hint of curiosity in his eyes as he nodded for her to continue.

Ilia took a deep breath, her voice tinged with guilt. "I never properly apologized to you for how I treated you when we first met. Back then, I was so blinded by my own anger and resentment that I couldn't see what you were trying to do—for the Faunus, for Blake, even for people like me. I was wrong about you, and I'm sorry."

Shirou's expression softened slightly. "You don't need to apologize, Ilia. We've all made mistakes, and you've more than proven that you're willing to change. What matters is that you chose a different path, one that's making a real difference."

Ilia looked relieved, though she still seemed a bit unsure. "Thanks, Shirou. That means a lot, coming from you. I just didn't want to leave things hanging between us."

With a small but genuine smile, Shirou nodded. "Consider it water under the bridge."

Ilia offered him a grateful smile before turning her attention back to Blake. "Blake, can we talk for a minute? Just us?" Her voice was gentle but carried a sense of urgency, as if she needed to share something before they parted ways.

Blake hesitated briefly, her gaze shifting to Shirou, who simply gave her a small nod of understanding. "Of course," she replied. "Let's go over there."

The two girls moved a few paces away, leaving Sun and Shirou standing awkwardly beside one another. Sun rubbed the back of his neck, glancing at Shirou with a mixture of curiosity and concern. "Guess we're having our own little heart-to-heart, huh?"

Shirou chuckled, though it was more out of politeness than amusement. "Seems like it."

Sun grinned, though it didn't quite reach his eyes. "Yeah, but it's not really goodbye, right? We'll see each other again. You're still going to need me around to keep you on your toes."

Blake's lips curved into a small smile. "I'll miss that… but you have your own path to follow now."

Shirou's expression remained neutral, but there was a hint of curiosity in his eyes as he nodded for her to continue.

Ilia looked relieved, though she still seemed a bit unsure. "Thanks, Shirou. That means a lot, coming from you. I just didn't want to leave things hanging between us."

With a small but genuine smile, Shirou nodded. "Consider it water under the bridge."

Blake hesitated briefly, her gaze shifting to Shirou, who simply gave her a small nod of understanding. "Of course," she replied. "Let's go over there."

Shirou chuckled, though it was more out of politeness than amusement. "Seems like it."

Meanwhile, Ilia and Blake found a quiet corner near the edge of the platform. Ilia's usual tough demeanor softened as she looked at Blake with a mixture of sincerity and uncertainty. "Blake, there's something I need to say before we go our separate ways."

Blake tilted her head slightly. "What is it, Ilia?"

Ilia hesitated, searching for the right words. "These past few days… they've really opened my eyes. I've spent so much of my life hating and fighting, but being with you, Sun, and even Shirou… it's made me see that there's more to life than just holding on to anger." She paused, her expression becoming more serious. "And Shirou especially… he sees things in people that they might not even see in themselves. He's got this quiet strength that's hard to ignore."

Blake listened intently, her brows furrowing as Ilia continued. "I don't know where things stand between you and Shirou, but I can tell that he's important to you. And… I think you're important to him, too, even if he doesn't say it out loud."

Blake's cheeks tinged with pink, and she averted her eyes. "It's… complicated. I care about him, but I'm not sure what he really wants. And honestly, I'm not sure what I want either."

Ilia smiled softly, a hint of playfulness returning to her tone. "You know, not everything has to be figured out right away. But I've seen the way you two interact—it's different. There's a connection there, something real. Don't be afraid to let yourself explore it."

Blake looked back at Ilia, a mix of uncertainty and curiosity in her expression. "You think so?"

"I do," Ilia replied with confidence. "You've been through so much, Blake. You deserve someone who understands that, who'll stand by you no matter what. And if that someone is Shirou… then maybe it's worth taking the risk."

There was a long silence as Blake mulled over Ilia's words. Eventually, she smiled—small, but genuine. "Maybe you're right. I just… I need to figure things out."

Ilia nodded understandingly. "Just promise me you won't let fear hold you back. You've already broken free from so much—you don't need to be trapped by uncertainty now."

The two girls shared a final, heartfelt embrace, both of them silently acknowledging how far they had come since the days of the White Fang. "Take care, Ilia," Blake whispered.

"You too," Ilia replied, her voice softer now. "And whatever happens, don't forget that you've got people who care about you."

As they parted, Ilia gave Blake one last encouraging nod before walking back toward Sun and the others.

While Blake and Ilia moved off to have their own conversation, Sun and Shirou stood at the edge of the platform, the sounds of the busy station blending into background noise. Sun, ever the optimist, leaned casually against the railing, trying to keep things light with his signature grin.

"So, you're heading off with the team again," Sun started, nudging Shirou playfully. "You've been rolling with them pretty well. You're basically part of the crew now."

Shirou shook his head slightly, a puzzled expression crossing his face. "I've only just met them. How do you figure I'm already part of anything?"

Sun chuckled, shrugging as if it were the most obvious thing in the world. "You've got the same vibe as them—you're always stepping up, doing what's needed. And let's be real, you've helped Blake a lot. That's not something just anyone can do."

Shirou's smile faded as he glanced away. "Blake's been through enough. She deserves better than someone like me complicating her life."

The conversation grew heavier as Sun noticed the tension in Shirou's voice. "Better? I don't get it. You've helped her when she needed it most. You understand what she's going through better than most people ever could."

Shirou's expression darkened as he sighed, his tone growing somber. "It's not that simple, Sun. There are things about me that Blake doesn't need to get involved in. I've got a past that's left scars—ones that go deeper than what's visible. I can't pretend like those things don't matter."

Sun's smile slipped away as concern filled his eyes. "Everyone's got baggage, Shirou. It's how you deal with it that counts. And from what I've seen, you've been facing it head-on. You don't have to shut yourself off from the good things in life just because of what's behind you."

Shirou's gaze remained fixed on the ground as he continued, his voice quiet and resigned. "It's not just about my past. It's about who I am, deep down. People like me… we don't get to be happy, not in the way others do. I've accepted that. Blake's strong, and she's finding her way again. If I get too close, I'll only drag her down with the weight I carry."

Sun felt a pang of sadness at Shirou's words. "Dragging her down? Shirou, you're not giving yourself enough credit. She's stronger because you've been there, helping her find her footing again. You can't just decide for her that you're not good enough."

Shirou met Sun's gaze, his eyes clouded with a mix of regret and determination. "That's exactly why I have to decide. I know where this path leads. Blake deserves someone who can give her the life she dreams of—someone who can be a real partner for her. I can't be that person."

Sun's expression turned somber as he struggled to hold onto his optimism. "But why not? You can't just shut yourself off from people because you're afraid of hurting them. You deserve to be happy too, Shirou."

Shirou's voice grew even softer, the weight of his words pressing down on the conversation. "It's not about fear—it's about responsibility. I've learned that the closer you get to people, the more they get pulled into your problems. I can't let Blake—or anyone else—get caught up in that. It's better if I keep things at a distance."

The sorrow in Shirou's tone left Sun speechless for a moment. He could feel the finality in Shirou's explanation, as if he had already made peace with the idea that happiness wasn't meant for him. Sun's usual cheer faltered, replaced by a deep sense of concern and sadness.

"You really believe that, don't you?" Sun asked, his voice softer now, tinged with sympathy.

Shirou gave a faint nod. "It's not what I want, but it's what's necessary. I've made choices that have consequences I can't run from. Blake's better off finding someone who can offer her more than what I can—someone who isn't burdened by the shadows I carry."

Sun clenched his fists, the frustration and sadness welling up inside him. "You deserve better than just running from those shadows. You don't have to do this alone, Shirou."

Shirou's expression softened, though the sadness in his eyes remained. "I appreciate that, Sun. Maybe one day, things will be different. But right now, this is how it has to be."

With that, Shirou turned and began walking back toward the others. Sun watched him go, the weight of the conversation lingering heavily in the air. The once-bright tone had darkened, leaving Sun with an unsettling sense of loss. He wanted to believe that Shirou could find his way to happiness, but the walls Shirou had built around himself seemed impossible to break through.

Sun sighed deeply, the earlier cheer gone, replaced by a quiet sadness. "You're stronger than you think, Shirou. I just wish you'd let yourself see it."

Blake stood quietly by the side of the platform, her thoughts lingering on her conversation with Ilia. A mix of emotions swirled within her, but she was quickly snapped out of her reverie when she noticed Sun approaching, his usually bright demeanor clouded with a hint of sadness.

"Sun?" she asked, concern evident in her voice. "Is everything okay?"

Sun forced a smile, but it didn't reach his eyes. "Yeah, yeah, I'm fine. Just… thinking."

Blake narrowed her eyes slightly, not buying his casual tone. "You don't look fine. Something's bothering you."

Sun hesitated, his gaze drifting for a moment as if searching for the right words. "It's Shirou. I talked to him, and… well, he's got this whole thing in his head that he doesn't deserve to be happy."

Blake's brow furrowed. "What do you mean?"

Sun sighed, running a hand through his hair. "He's convinced that getting close to anyone—especially you—would just hurt them in the end. It's like he's set on keeping himself alone because he thinks it's better for everyone else."

Blake's eyes softened with understanding and concern. "He's carrying a lot of weight. I can see it in him, even when he doesn't say anything. But… to think he believes he doesn't deserve happiness? That's heartbreaking."

Sun nodded. "Yeah, it is. I tried to tell him he's wrong, but it's like he's already decided. I don't know what kind of stuff he's been through, but whatever it is, it's truly keeping him from letting anyone get close."

Blake bit her lip, her gaze drifting in the direction where Shirou had walked off. "I had a feeling something was holding him back, but I didn't realize it was this deep."

Sun looked at her intently, his expression serious. "Blake, I know it's not really my place, but… if anyone can help him, it's you. You get him in a way I don't think anyone else can. Just… be there for him, okay? He might not admit it, but I think he needs that."

Blake's heart ached at Sun's words. The idea of Shirou bearing such a heavy burden alone, believing he was better off that way, struck a chord deep within her. "I will," she promised softly. "I'll be there for him, even if he doesn't think he deserves it."

Sun's smile returned, though it was tinged with melancholy. "I figured you would. You really have come a long way since Beacon. You see things more clearly now, and I think you're the best chance he has at letting someone in."

Blake gave him a small, grateful smile. "Thank you, Sun. I know things between us have been complicated, but… I'm glad you're looking out for him."

Sun's grin returned, more genuine this time. "Hey, what can I say? I've always had a soft spot for the underdogs."

Blake laughed lightly, the tension easing just a bit. But before she could say anything more, Sun's expression grew serious again.

"Look, I know this goodbye is different. You've got your own journey ahead, and so do I. But no matter what happens, I'll always have your back. And I know you'll have mine."

Blake's smile grew softer, more heartfelt. "Always, Sun. Thank you—for everything. You've been a good friend, and I hope that never changes."

Sun took a deep breath and gave her a playful salute. "Count on it. And hey, make sure you take care of yourself too. Don't get so wrapped up in helping others that you forget about you."

"I'll try," Blake replied with a knowing smirk.

They stood there for a moment, the weight of unspoken feelings hanging in the air. Finally, Sun broke the silence with a sigh.

"Guess this is it, then. Take care of yourself, Blake—and keep an eye on that stubborn guy for me, will you?"

Blake nodded. "I will. You take care too, Sun. And good luck with whatever comes next for you."

With one last shared smile, Sun turned and walked away, heading toward where Ilia and his team were waiting. Blake watched him go, her heart heavy yet warmed by the bond they still shared. As he disappeared into the crowd, she couldn't help but think about what he'd said about Shirou—and how determined she now was to break through the walls he kept around himself.

The sound of the conductor's call snapped her out of her thoughts. Blake took a deep breath, then turned and made her way back to the others, ready to face whatever lay ahead.

As the conductor's voice echoed through the station, signaling the final boarding call for the Argus Limited, the group gathered their belongings and began making their way toward the sleek maglev train. The tension in the air was palpable—everyone knew that this journey was more than just a trip; it marked a significant step toward their next challenge.

Blake walked back toward the others, still processing her conversation with Sun. Just as she reached the group, Shirou appeared wearing a new jacket, a simple but sturdy design that suited him well. He gave a small smile, nodding to her and the others.

"You look ready," Blake commented as he joined them.

Shirou chuckled softly, adjusting his jacket. "Figured it was time for a change."

With everyone gathered, Ruby took the lead, her boundless energy and excitement on full display. "I can't believe we're finally headed to Argus! I've heard so many stories about how beautiful it is!"

Yang, standing beside her sister, grinned. "It's about time we got back on the road. We've been cooped up in one place for too long."

Weiss, however, remained more subdued. She held onto her suitcase tightly, her expression a mix of determination and unease. Despite her resolve, the thought of returning to Atlas was clearly weighing on her. Everyone noticed the slight falter in her step as she moved forward.

"Are you okay, Weiss?" Ren asked gently, picking up on her hesitation.

Weiss straightened up and gave a small nod. "I'm fine, really. Just… mentally preparing myself for what's coming." Her voice carried a hint of dread, though she quickly masked it with a more confident tone. "But I'm ready. We're all in this together, right?"

Nora, never one to let the mood stay tense for long, slapped Weiss on the back with a grin. "Of course! And whatever comes next, we'll handle it like we always do—with style!"

Jaune added with a supportive smile, "You've got us, Weiss. We'll face whatever Atlas throws at us together."

Weiss couldn't help but smile at their encouragement. Despite her fears, knowing her friends would be by her side made it easier to face what was ahead. "Thanks, everyone."

The conductor's voice echoed once more, urging passengers to board. Ruby led the way, practically bouncing with energy, while Yang followed closely behind, ready for whatever the journey had in store. The others fell in line, their emotions ranging from excitement to quiet resolve.

Once onboard, the group split into their designated cabins. Team RWBY found themselves in a comfortable, private cabin with four bunks and a large window offering a view of the passing landscapes. The cabin was cozy, with enough room for the four of them to settle in for the long journey ahead.

Ruby claimed the window seat immediately, pressing her face against the glass with wide-eyed anticipation. "I can't wait to see the mountains as we get closer to Argus!"

Yang chuckled, taking the bunk beneath Ruby's. "Let's just hope you don't tire yourself out before we even get there."

Weiss and Blake took their respective bunks, their thoughts lingering on the challenges that awaited them. Despite the tension, there was an underlying sense of comfort—this was Team RWBY, reunited and moving forward together.

Meanwhile, in the cabin next door, Jaune, Nora, Ren, and Oscar settled into their space. Nora was already bouncing around, inspecting every nook and cranny of the cabin, while Ren calmly unpacked their belongings. Jaune and Oscar exchanged smiles, both of them grateful for the rare moment of peace as they began the journey.

Further down the train, Shirou and Qrow shared a quieter cabin. Qrow leaned back in his seat, sipping from a flask with a smirk on his face. "So, ready for another adventure?" he asked, half-joking.

Shirou gave a noncommittal shrug. "As ready as I'll ever be."

The hum of the train's engines filled the space as it powered up, preparing for departure. The station outside slowly began to blur as the train's magnetic system engaged, lifting it gently off the rails.

As the train picked up speed, leaving the station behind, each cabin held its own atmosphere—Ruby's excitement, Yang's teasing, Weiss's unease, Blake's quiet determination, and the steady resolve of their friends. They were moving forward, both literally and figuratively. Each of them had their own thoughts, worries, and hopes, but they were united by a shared goal and the bond they had forged through their journey.

The scenery outside shifted from the urban sprawl of Mistral to the open landscapes, mountains rising in the distance. It was a reminder that their world was vast, filled with unknowns and challenges—but also opportunities and new beginnings.

Yang broke the silence in their cabin with a grin. "Here we go, another adventure with Team RWBY—and friends!"

The mood lightened as the group chuckled, the tension easing slightly as they settled into the rhythm of the journey. Despite the uncertainties ahead, there was a sense of hope among them—a belief that they could face whatever lay in their path.

For Blake, as the scenery flashed by, she found herself reflecting on the words both Sun and Ilia had shared with her. The path ahead was uncertain, but she knew one thing for sure—she would keep moving forward, no matter what, with the people who mattered most by her side.

And so, with the sun high in the sky and the wind rushing past the train, their journey to Argus truly began.