PATCH
Yang's truck rumbled to a stop in front of the small, two-story house tucked away on the edge of Patch. The driveway barely had enough room for all three vehicles—Yang's truck, Ren's stolen car, and Coco's battered sedan. The air felt unnervingly quiet, a stark contrast to the chaos they'd fled in Vale.
The group piled out of the vehicles, their movements slow and heavy, the weight of the day's events pressing down on them.
Coco gently guided Velvet, who still clutched her bandaged shoulder, toward the house. Velvet's wide eyes stared blankly at the ground, her steps unsteady. Coco kept murmuring reassurances, though Velvet gave no sign she'd heard any of them.
Ren supported Nora, whose legs felt weak beneath her. She leaned against him, her face pale and her eyes dull.
"I'll carry her," Jaune said, stepping up and placing a hand on Ren's shoulder.
Ren hesitated before nodding, letting Jaune lift Nora into his arms. She barely reacted, her arms loosely wrapping around Jaune's neck.
Blake led Winter toward the house, Gambol Shroud unfolded and pointed subtly at her. Winter shuffled forward, her expression hollow, wrapped in the blanket Yang had given her earlier.
Weiss followed closely, her eyes locked on Winter's every move. The tension between the sisters was palpable.
Meanwhile, Ruby and Yang remained in the truck.
Ruby sat in the passenger seat, her eyes fixed on the floor, her arms wrapped protectively around Zwei, who whimpered softly in her lap.
Yang, still gripping the steering wheel, turned to her sister. "Ruby…" She hesitated before reaching out and placing a hand on Ruby's shoulder. "It's going to be okay."
Ruby didn't respond. She gently set Zwei down on the seat beside her, opened the door, and climbed out without looking back. Zwei followed close behind, his tail low as he padded toward the house.
Yang stayed in the truck for a moment, staring at the empty space Ruby had left. She exhaled, ran a hand through her hair, and finally stepped out.
Ruby let Zwei wander toward his small bed in the corner of the living room. The dog circled it twice before curling up, letting out a soft whine. Ruby bit her lip and looked away.
Her eyes landed on Winter, now seated on one of the chairs near the dining table. Weiss stood beside her like a sentry, arms crossed and rapier at the ready. Winter avoided her sister's gaze, instead staring at the table, her shoulders hunched.
Jaune carried Nora upstairs with Ren following close behind, disappearing into one of the bedrooms.
Coco sat on the couch with Velvet, gently rubbing her back and whispering to her. Velvet didn't respond, her gaze unfocused and distant.
Blake stepped up beside Ruby. "You should get some rest."
Ruby shook her head. "I'm fine." Her voice was quiet but firm. She moved to sit down on the floor next to Zwei's bed, absently stroking his fur.
Blake frowned but didn't press. Instead, she turned as Yang finally stepped inside. Yang's eyes immediately began scanning the kitchen, opening cabinets and inspecting every shelf.
"Blake," Yang said, her voice tight. "Check the rooms. See if there's anything we can use for weapons."
Blake blinked. "Weapons? Yang, this is your house. Why would there be weapons here?"
Yang's eyes flicked up, sharp and serious. "Just do it. Please."
Blake hesitated, then nodded and silently left the room to search.
Ruby watched as Yang turned back to the cabinets, pulling out cans of food and boxes of dry goods. She arranged them into piles on the counter—soups, vegetables, pastas—but her movements grew faster and more erratic, cans clattering against each other.
Then a stack of cans tipped over, crashing to the floor.
Yang froze. Her shoulders rose and fell with heavy breaths before her fist suddenly slammed down on the counter with enough force to crack the wood.
The sound startled everyone in the room.
Ruby jumped up and moved toward her sister.
Yang didn't try to hide the tears streaming down her face. Her hands gripped the edge of the counter, trembling.
"Yang…"
Yang glanced at Ruby, her eyes red and filled with frustration and fear. She opened her mouth to say something, but no words came out.
Ruby knelt down and began picking up the fallen cans. She stacked them carefully before standing and placing them back on the counter.
Yang sniffled, wiping her eyes with the back of her arm. "I—I just… I need to do something." Her voice cracked.
Ruby reached out and wrapped her arms around her sister, pulling her into a hug. Yang stiffened for a moment before melting into the embrace, her arms wrapping tightly around Ruby.
"It's okay," Ruby whispered. "We're safe here. For now."
Yang buried her face against Ruby's shoulder, finally letting herself break down. Ruby held her, her own tears threatening to fall again, but she stayed strong for Yang.
They stood there in the kitchen, holding each other as the weight of the day caught up to them.
Blake searched the rooms quietly, her eyes scanning for anything useful. Her thoughts raced as she took inventory—not just of supplies, but of their situation.
Downstairs, Weiss stared at Winter, waiting for answers that her sister couldn't—or wouldn't—give.
In the bedrooms, Jaune and Ren tended to Nora while Coco stayed by Velvet's side, keeping a watchful eye.
The house had become a temporary sanctuary, but everyone knew it wouldn't last.
Yang finally pulled away, wiping her face and taking a deep breath. "Thanks," she muttered.
Ruby smiled softly. "Always."
Yang straightened up, her fiery determination flickering back into her eyes. "We're going to get through this, Ruby. No matter what."
Ruby nodded, but her gaze drifted toward the window—toward Vale, still burning in the distance.
She gripped Crescent Rose tightly.
No matter what.
EVENING
The sun dipped below the horizon, casting an orange glow through the windows of the house. Despite the relative safety of Patch Island, tension clung to the air like a fog. Everyone was scattered throughout the house, trying to make sense of the day's chaos.
Ruby moved between the group, handing out candy bars and bottles of water she had scavenged earlier from the pantry. Her movements were slow, mechanical, as if her body were acting while her mind was somewhere else—back in Vale, back with her father.
Jaune sat on the couch, unwrapping a candy bar but barely touching it. Ren and Nora were upstairs, with Nora still unresponsive despite Ren's attempts to comfort her. Coco sat close to Velvet, whispering reassurances that fell on deaf ears.
Blake leaned against the wall, her arms crossed tightly as if bracing herself for more bad news.
Meanwhile, Yang sat in front of the television, flipping through the channels with increasing frustration. Every station was static.
"Come on," she muttered, clicking the remote again. Another empty screen. Static. Static. Black.
Ruby looked up. "Anything?"
"No," Yang snapped, before catching herself. She exhaled sharply. "Sorry. Just… I need to hear something."
Click. Static. Click. Static.
Then—
A faint buzz, followed by a flicker of light. The screen came to life.
"Wait!" Yang said, leaning forward.
The image stabilized, revealing Lisa Lavender, Vale's renowned news anchor. But this wasn't the polished, put-together woman from the evening broadcasts. She sat in what appeared to be a dimly lit storage room, her hair disheveled and dirt smudging her face. Her voice was hurried and hushed.
"This is Lisa Lavender reporting. If you're watching this, you're one of the lucky ones who still has power—or a signal. I'm broadcasting from an undisclosed location within Vale, and I'll keep this transmission going as long as I can."
Everyone in the room went silent, their eyes glued to the screen.
"The situation is grim. Reports confirm that Atlas' invasion has spread far beyond Vale. Attacks have been reported in Mistral, Vacuo, and parts of Solitas itself. Cities have fallen. Communications are down almost everywhere. The death toll so far…"
She paused, swallowing hard.
"…is believed to be in the thousands."
Ruby froze, her breath catching in her throat. Yang's fingers dug into the remote as she gripped it tightly.
The broadcast shifted to shaky footage captured by handheld cameras. Streets filled with fire and smoke. Atlesian soldiers marching civilians into transports. Airships raining fire on neighborhoods that had once been peaceful.
Blake turned away, squeezing her eyes shut.
Lisa's voice continued.
"Not all hope is lost. Reports indicate that certain areas have been spared from the attacks—so far. Patch Island remains untouched. As does Menagerie, the Faunus homeland."
Blake let out a shaky sigh, her knees nearly giving out as she leaned against the wall. Ruby noticed and stepped toward her, but Blake quickly straightened, holding up a hand.
"I'm fine," she said, though her trembling voice betrayed her.
Ruby gave her space but stayed close enough to offer support if needed.
"We don't know why these locations have been left alone. Maybe Atlas didn't see them as strategic targets. Maybe it's only a matter of time. But for now, they're safe."
Yang exhaled, gripping the remote even tighter as Lisa continued.
"Before the attacks began, I received a message from Beacon Academy. Specifically, from Professor Ozpin and Professor Glynda Goodwitch."
Weiss straightened at the mention of her teachers, while Ruby leaned closer to the TV.
"I have to report that both Ozpin and Glynda have gone missing. No one has seen them since the first wave of attacks. But before they disappeared, they left me this message for anyone who could see or hear it."
Lisa unfolded a crumpled piece of paper and began reading.
"To the people of Remnant: These are dark times. We face an enemy that moves without warning and strikes without mercy. But this is not the end."
Ruby clutched Zwei tightly.
"This world has faced ruin before, and it has endured. Not through strength alone, but through unity. We must not give in to fear. We must not surrender to despair. Protect each other. Fight for each other. And never stop believing in the light we carry within ourselves."
Lisa lowered the paper, her voice trembling slightly.
"Stay strong. Stay alive. Help will come."
The faint sound of an explosion echoed through the feed, shaking the storage room where Lisa sat. Her eyes darted off-screen, panic flickering across her face.
"I have to go." She looked back at the camera, her expression softening. "If you can see this… don't give up. I'll bring another report as soon as I can."
The screen cut to static.
The room fell into silence.
Yang slowly set the remote down and turned toward Winter, who sat in the corner, still wrapped in the blanket.
"Was that the plan?" Yang asked, her voice low but sharp. "Kill thousands of people? Tear apart cities?"
Winter didn't respond. Her head was down, her hands trembling under the blanket.
"We need answers," Weiss said, stepping forward, her voice unsteady but firm.
Winter finally looked up, tears in her eyes. "I didn't know it would be like this," she said softly. "But… it was always going to happen."
Weiss staggered back, her face pale. "What do you mean—'always?'"
Chapter 8 – The Truth Revealed
The house felt heavier than ever. The faint hum of the generator in the background only made the silence more oppressive as Winter Schnee sat in the corner of the room, wrapped in the blanket Yang had given her earlier. Her eyes were red and puffy, and her hands trembled as she clutched the fabric tightly around herself.
Everyone was gathered in the living room, their expressions ranging from anger to confusion to fear. Weiss stood closest to Winter, her arms crossed tightly as if trying to hold herself together. Ruby stayed by Weiss's side, ready to catch her if she fell apart. Yang leaned against the kitchen counter, still fuming but saying nothing—for now. Jaune sat stiffly on the couch, his glare fixed on Winter, while Blake, Coco, and Ren stood quietly nearby, listening.
Winter took a shaky breath. "Atlas has been planning this invasion… since the end of the first Great War."
The words hit like a bombshell.
The room erupted.
"What?!" Yang snapped, slamming her fist against the counter.
"Are you serious?!" Jaune barked, standing up.
Even Blake, who rarely let her emotions show, stared at Winter in disbelief.
"No," Weiss whispered, her voice trembling. "That's… that's impossible."
Winter's eyes fell to the floor, her voice barely above a whisper. "I wish it were."
Weiss took a step forward, her hands balled into fists. "Atlas was supposed to be an ally. We fought side by side! How—how could this happen?"
Winter looked up, her tear-filled eyes locking onto Weiss's. "Because this wasn't just Ironwood's plan… it was Atlas' plan."
Weiss froze. "What?"
Winter inhaled deeply, trying to steady herself. "After the first Great War, Atlas didn't see peace as stability. They saw it as vulnerability. They saw the other kingdoms as threats—potential enemies waiting for an opportunity to rise against them.
"So they prepared." Winter's voice cracked, but she kept going. "For decades, Atlas built its army, its fleets, and its weapons. It modernized faster than any other kingdom and disguised it all under the banner of 'defense.' But it was never about defense. It was about control."
Yang's jaw clenched. "And no one questioned it?"
Winter shook her head. "No one outside Atlas ever knew the full extent of it. The people in Mantle protested for years, calling out Atlas' militarization, but they were ignored—silenced."
Blake's voice finally broke through. "Then how did it come to this? What made them finally attack?"
Winter hesitated, then spoke. "Ironwood."
Ruby frowned. "General Ironwood?"
Winter nodded. "He didn't just lead this invasion. He announced it. To all of Atlas and Mantle."
"What?" Weiss asked, her voice breaking.
Winter's shoulders shook. "A live broadcast. He called it 'Operation Salvation.' He told the people that Atlas would bring order to the world. That the other kingdoms were weak and corrupt, and only Atlas could protect humanity."
"Protect humanity?" Jaune snapped. "By attacking them?!"
Winter's voice cracked as she continued. "Mantle resisted. They protested. They fought back." She shook her head. "But Atlas didn't listen. Ninety-five percent of Atlas' citizens supported Ironwood. They believed him. They wanted this war."
Weiss staggered back as if the words had physically hit her. "No…"
Winter's eyes filled with fresh tears. "Our brother agreed, Weiss."
Weiss's breath caught. "Whitley?"
Winter nodded. "He stood with Ironwood. Publicly. He called for Atlas to unite under the General's banner. And most of them did."
Weiss's voice quivered. "And Mom? What about Mother?"
Winter looked down, tears streaming down her face. "I opposed it, Weiss. I spoke out. I fought it. And for that…" Her voice broke. "Ironwood took Mother hostage."
Weiss gasped, her hands covering her mouth.
Winter sobbed. "He told me I could stand with Atlas—or let her die."
The room fell silent except for Weiss's soft cries.
Winter wiped her face but didn't stop trembling. "I didn't have a choice." She looked at Weiss, her voice breaking again. "I'm so sorry."
Weiss collapsed into Ruby's arms, sobbing uncontrollably. Ruby held her tightly, stroking her back and whispering reassurances, but even Ruby's voice shook.
Jaune, who had been glaring at Winter since the moment she spoke, softened. His anger dimmed as the weight of her words finally settled. He sat back down, rubbing his face and letting out a shaky breath.
Blake closed her eyes and leaned against the wall, trying to process it all. Coco rested a hand on Velvet's shoulder, who still hadn't spoken a word since the attack. Ren remained by the stairs, quiet but visibly shaken.
Yang finally spoke, her voice low and bitter. "So Ironwood's the one pulling the strings."
Winter nodded weakly. "Yes. But this has been building for decades. He just… lit the match."
Ruby looked up from Weiss, her voice barely above a whisper. "What do we do now?"
Winter didn't have an answer.
"We survive," Yang said, her eyes burning with determination. "And then we fight back."
Ruby held Weiss tighter, her resolve starting to mirror her sister's.
Winter wiped her tears but didn't look up. "If you fight back… Ironwood won't stop. He'll burn everything to the ground before he lets anyone stand in his way."
Ruby met her gaze. "Then we'll stop him first."
THE NEXT MORNING
Jaune stood near the cliffside, his hands clenched into fists as he stared at the horizon. Smoke still rose from Vale, twisting into the sky like dark scars against the morning light. Fires—both old and new—burned in the distance, their orange glow flickering faintly even in daylight.
His jaw tightened. Atlas.
He hated them. Hated what they'd done. Hated that he couldn't stop it.
And most of all, he hated that they'd taken Pyrrha.
His breath hitched as the thought hit him again, sharp and unforgiving. Pyrrha was out there somewhere—injured, alone, and surrounded by enemies—and he hadn't been able to save her. The image of her being struck down and dragged away replayed in his mind, over and over, until his knees felt weak.
His vision blurred. He wiped his eyes quickly, as if doing so might erase the ache in his chest. But it didn't.
"Jaune?"
He flinched and turned.
Nora stood a few steps behind him, arms crossed but with none of her usual energy. Her expression was softer, worried, as if she'd been watching him for a while before deciding to speak. Ren lingered nearby, quiet and observant, his hands tucked into his pockets.
Jaune's shoulders sagged as relief swept through him. Nora was standing. Walking. She wasn't frozen in fear anymore. Without a word, he closed the distance between them and pulled her into a tight hug.
Nora didn't resist. She hugged him back just as tightly, resting her chin on his shoulder.
"I'm glad you're okay," Jaune murmured, his voice rough.
"You too," Nora said softly.
She felt Jaune's grip tighten, just slightly. It wasn't the hug itself that made her heart sink—it was the way he held on, like letting go might break him.
When Jaune finally pulled back, Nora searched his face. "What happened?" she asked. "Where's Pyrrha?"
Jaune's expression cracked. His eyes darted away, but his voice betrayed him before the words came.
"She was taken."
Nora's breath caught. Ren stiffened.
"What?" Nora said, shaking her head. "No, she—she's strong, Jaune. She wouldn't let—"
"She fought," Jaune interrupted, his voice breaking. "She fought hard. But it wasn't enough."
He looked back toward Vale, his fists trembling.
"She's still out there," he said, barely above a whisper. "And I can't do anything to help her."
The confession shattered what little control he had left. Tears spilled down his cheeks as his shoulders shook.
Nora stepped forward and grabbed him, pulling him into another hug.
"We'll find her," Nora said firmly. "We'll get her back. Okay?"
Jaune didn't respond at first, but Nora didn't let go. She held him, her arms steady even as his body shook.
"Okay?" Nora repeated, her voice softer this time.
Jaune finally nodded against her shoulder.
"Good," Nora whispered. She didn't let go, even as Jaune's tears soaked into her shirt.
Ren stepped closer, placing a reassuring hand on Jaune's back. He didn't speak, but his presence said enough.
They stayed like that for a while, with the fires of Vale smoldering in the distance.
And though the world outside burned, the three of them—broken but unyielding—stood together, holding onto hope.
THE NEXT MORNING
The kitchen was uncomfortably crowded as the group gathered around the counter. In the center sat their collected supplies—a pile of cans, bottles, boxes, and bags stacked as neatly as the chaos of the day before would allow. The faint hum of the generator filled the silence as everyone waited for Yang to finish taking inventory.
Yang stood with her arms crossed, squinting at the food like it might multiply if she stared hard enough. A notebook sat on the counter in front of her, a pen tapping rhythmically against the paper.
"Alright," Yang began, "here's what we've got so far." She flipped the page and started listing.
"Seventeen cans of soup, ten cans of beans, six cans of chili, seven cans of vegetables, four cans of fruit, five cans of tuna, two cans of chicken, three jars of peanut butter, four jars of jam, six bags of rice, five boxes of pasta, three bags of dried beans, two bags of flour, one bag of sugar, five boxes of cereal, two boxes of oatmeal, four boxes of granola bars, two boxes of protein bars, five bags of chips—and yes, that includes the mystery bag I found under the sink, which no one is eating."
She took a breath and kept going.
"We've also got four boxes of crackers, six packs of ramen, two bags of trail mix, four jars of pickles—don't ask—seven cans of Spam, and three cans of corned beef."
Yang flipped to the next page.
"For drinks, we've got fifteen bottles of water, two cases of soda, one gallon of milk—probably still good—four cartons of juice, six cans of iced coffee, one-and-a-half cases of energy drinks, and…" Yang hesitated and glanced at the corner of the counter.
Weiss raised an eyebrow. "And?"
Yang grinned. "And six bottles of beer, three bottles of wine, one bottle of rum, one bottle of vodka, and…" She picked up the last item with an amused look. "A flask labeled 'Taiyang's Secret Sauce.'"
Ruby groaned. "Oh, Dad."
"Definitely not touching that one," Blake muttered.
"Unless we run out of water," Jaune said darkly, earning a glare from Weiss.
Yang smirked and set the flask down. "So, if we ration this carefully, it should last us a couple of weeks. Maybe longer if we stretch it. We'll need to find more eventually, but we're okay for now."
Ruby's eyes wandered over the pile and zeroed in on something at the edge of the counter—a lone candy bar nestled between boxes of crackers and granola bars.
"Uh… is that the last candy bar?" Ruby asked.
Everyone's attention immediately shifted.
Ruby raised her hand hesitantly. "Can I have it?"
Coco crossed her arms and stepped closer. "And why should you get it?"
"Because I asked first?" Ruby offered weakly.
Coco scoffed. "I was at the park when the invasion started. Velvet and I barely made it out alive. I deserve that candy bar."
Ruby opened her mouth to argue, but Nora suddenly cut in.
"Hold on!" Nora raised her hands dramatically. "I was the one who got knocked out and carried to safety! And do you know what my doctor-prescribed cure for stress is?"
"No," Jaune said flatly.
"SUGAR!" Nora pointed to the candy bar. "That candy bar is my medicine!"
Ruby groaned and reached for it. "Look, let's just—"
A hand shot out, snatching the candy bar right off the counter.
Ruby froze and turned to see Velvet standing there, her face calm but serious. Without saying a word, Velvet unwrapped the candy bar, took a bite, and walked over to the couch, sitting down like nothing had happened.
Ruby blinked. "I guess… Velvet wins."
Yang let out an unexpected laugh, and for the first time since the invasion, it sounded genuine.
"Did not see that coming," Coco said, shaking her head.
Blake smirked. "Never underestimate Velvet."
Velvet ignored them, her focus locked on the half-eaten candy bar in her hands. But after a moment, her eyes flickered toward Winter, who sat by the window.
Winter hadn't moved much since last night. She still sat wrapped in the blanket, staring out at Vale's smoldering ruins. Her face was pale, her expression hollow.
Velvet hesitated before breaking the candy bar in half. She stood and walked over to Winter, her footsteps soft.
Coco noticed and sat up straighter, watching curiously.
Velvet gently tapped Winter on the shoulder, causing the older woman to flinch before turning around.
Winter blinked in surprise at the sight of Velvet holding out the uneaten half of the candy bar.
Velvet's voice was quiet but steady. "You need to eat."
Winter hesitated, her eyes darting between Velvet and the candy. "I… I can't."
"You can." Velvet pushed the candy closer. "You need to keep your strength up."
Winter stared at her for a long moment before finally taking the candy bar with trembling hands.
"Thank you," Winter whispered, her voice barely audible.
Velvet gave her a small nod and walked back to the couch, sitting down without another word.
The room fell silent again, but this time it felt… lighter.
Yang leaned against the counter, a faint smile tugging at her lips as she glanced at Ruby. "Looks like Velvet wins and has a heart of gold."
Ruby rolled her eyes but smiled faintly. "I still wanted that candy bar…"
As Winter quietly nibbled on her half, the group let themselves breathe—if only for a moment. It wasn't much, but small acts of kindness like this reminded them that not everything was lost.
Not yet.
NOON – FOREST
The forest was quiet, the kind of quiet that felt unnatural. Sunlight filtered through the trees, but it did little to ease the tension hanging in the air.
Yang parked her truck beside Coco's sedan and Ren's stolen car, all three vehicles hidden beneath branches and leaves hastily piled over them. She shut the door and slung Ember Celica over her arms, scanning the area as the others regrouped.
Jaune leaned against Ren's car, his arms crossed and his rifle slung over his shoulder. His eyes kept flicking toward the smoke rising from Vale in the distance, dark plumes still visible even this far away.
Ruby stood beside him, adjusting Crescent Rose and keeping Zwei close at her feet. She was quiet, her expression distant, but her grip on her weapon was firm.
Ren double-checked the locks on his car, while Coco leaned against the hood of hers, wiping sweat from her brow.
Yang stepped up to the group, snapping them out of their thoughts. "Alright. We're about ten minutes from the house," she said. "Let's get moving before someone finds this spot."
The group nodded, falling into step as they headed back along the dirt trail.
The first few minutes passed in tense silence, only the crunch of dirt and leaves underfoot filling the air. But Jaune eventually spoke, his voice low and heavy.
"We're going to need a plan," he said.
"For what?" Yang asked without looking back.
Jaune gestured toward the rising smoke. "For when Atlas comes here."
Ruby's shoulders tensed. "We don't know that they will."
Jaune shook his head. "You really think they won't? Look at what they did to Vale—and everywhere else. They're not going to stop."
Yang sighed, glancing over her shoulder. "He's right. It's only a matter of time."
Jaune frowned, his grip tightening on his rifle. "But why haven't they come yet? Why didn't they hit Patch or Menagerie during the first wave?"
Yang shrugged. "Maybe we weren't worth the effort. No major defenses, no armies—just a lot of small towns and outposts. Atlas probably didn't see us as a threat."
Jaune didn't look convinced. "Or maybe they're saving us for later."
Yang glanced at him. "I don't care why we were spared. I care that we were. And I'm glad Blake's family is safe in Menagerie. That's what matters."
Jaune's jaw tightened. "Yeah… but for how long?"
Yang slowed, her senses suddenly on edge. Something felt wrong. She held up a hand, signaling for the others to stop.
The group froze, weapons at the ready.
Then they heard it—the sound of footsteps crashing through the underbrush.
Yang turned sharply, her heart pounding. A group appeared through the trees, running toward them.
Nora was in the lead, her orange hair wild and her eyes wide with panic. Behind her, Weiss, Velvet, Winter, and Ren followed, their arms filled with bags and supplies.
"Nora?" Ruby called out, stepping forward.
Nora skidded to a stop, panting hard. Her eyes locked onto Yang, and her voice came out frantic and breathless.
"They found us!" Nora blurted out, her voice shaking. "Atlas found us!"
HOUSE
Blake crouched low behind the thick underbrush, her amber eyes wide as she watched Atlesian soldiers circle the house in tight formations. Their movements were methodical, rifles sweeping across every angle as if expecting an ambush at any moment. The Atlas emblem gleamed coldly on their armor, a stark reminder of the forces they were up against.
Leaves rustled behind her, and Blake spun, weapon at the ready, only to relax slightly when Yang, Ruby, Jaune, Coco, Ren, Velvet, Winter, and Nora emerged quietly from the trees.
"They just got here," Blake whispered, her voice tense. "But they haven't found anything—or anyone. Yet."
Yang's jaw tightened. "Let's make sure they don't."
Before anyone could respond, Zwei suddenly barked and bolted from the group, his tiny paws kicking up dirt as he disappeared into the open.
Ruby's eyes went wide. "Zwei!"
She lunged forward, but Yang grabbed her and pulled her down hard, pinning her to the ground and covering her mouth before she could make a sound.
"Let me go!" Ruby's voice was muffled against Yang's hand, tears already forming.
"Ruby, stop!" Yang hissed. Her voice was sharp but trembling. "He'll be okay. You won't be if they hear you!"
Ruby fought against her sister's grip, but Yang held her tight, whispering over and over, "Trust me. He'll be fine."
Before Ruby could calm down, the rumble of an approaching military transport vehicle made the entire group freeze.
The massive vehicle pulled to a stop in front of the house, the Atlas insignia glinting in the sunlight alongside a General Rank emblem etched into the door.
Winter's breath caught as her face went pale. "No…"
The door opened, and Lieutenant Hale stepped out first, his sharp gaze sweeping the area. His movements were rigid, and his expression betrayed irritation and impatience.
Yang's eyes narrowed. "That's him," she muttered under her breath.
Jaune frowned. "Who?"
"The one who rammed our truck during the invasion."
Before anyone could respond, General Ironwood stepped out of the vehicle, his mechanical arm glinting as he surveyed the scene. His expression was calm, collected, but the weight of his presence made the air feel heavier.
A soldier approached and saluted. "General, the house is clear. No signs of occupants. Most likely, they fled when they saw the convoy approaching."
Ironwood's gaze shifted toward the treeline. "Or they're hiding," he said, his voice carrying just enough authority to make Ruby's heart pound.
He turned to another soldier. "Bring him out."
The soldier saluted and stepped to the vehicle, pulling the door open.
Ruby's breath hitched as Taiyang Xiao Long was dragged out, his wrists bound in cuffs and his face bruised.
"No…" Ruby's voice was barely a whisper, and she immediately struggled against Yang again.
Yang held her tighter, whispering, "Ruby, please! We can't let them see us!"
Ironwood stepped forward, stopping just in front of Taiyang.
"Mr. Xiao Long," he began, his voice firm but not unkind. "This doesn't have to be difficult. I need to know where your daughters are—Ruby Rose and Yang Xiao Long. I also need to know who's with them… and why they took General Schnee."
Taiyang said nothing.
Ironwood sighed, pacing slowly as if choosing his words carefully. "I understand your hesitation. I'm a father too—or I was once. You're scared for your daughters. I get it. But this isn't about hurting them."
Taiyang's glare was sharp. "Then why am I bruised and in cuffs?"
Ironwood met his eyes without flinching. "Because this war is bigger than all of us." His tone softened. "Taiyang, I don't want to hurt anyone—not you, not your daughters, not the people hiding out here. I want to end this conflict before it spirals any further."
Taiyang's lips pressed into a thin line, but his shoulders remained tense.
Ironwood stepped closer. "Help me find them, and I'll make sure they're safe."
Taiyang stared at him. "Safe?" His voice was quiet but steady. "You think I'm stupid enough to believe that? That you're here to keep anyone safe?"
Ironwood's jaw tightened, but Taiyang didn't stop.
"You burned Vale. You marched into innocent cities and called it order. And now you're hunting my daughters like criminals when all they've done is survive the nightmare you created." He stepped closer, his voice growing stronger. "I won't help you find them, Ironwood. Not because I think I'm smarter than you—but because I know my girls are better than you."
Ironwood exhaled sharply, then gestured to a soldier, who handed Taiyang a megaphone.
"Then speak to them," Ironwood said.
Taiyang hesitated, his gaze flickering briefly toward the trees. Then he raised the megaphone.
"Girls...If you're out there… listen carefully."
Ruby's breath caught as her father's voice echoed through the forest.
"Things aren't looking good. Not in Vale. Not anywhere." His voice wavered. "Atlas… Atlas has won.
Ruby's tears fell harder
"I won't tell you to surrender. Because Inknow you won't. But I will tell you this—be smart. Be strong. Do what you have to do to survive."
His voice cracked slightly.
"This war isn't over—not yet. But it's going to get worse before it gets better. You're going to have to make choices you're not ready for. But no matter what happens, I need you to remember this—I love you both. Always."
Ruby began to silently sob against Yang's hand, her tears soaking into her sister's fingers. Yang fought to hold back her own tears.
Taiyang lowered the megaphone and looked at Ironwood. "If they're out there, they'll listen."
Ironwood gave a small nod. "Let's hope so."
He turned to another soldier. "Bring her out."
The door opened again.
Weiss's eyes widened in horror. "No…"
Willow Schnee stepped out, pale and trembling, though her wrists were not bound.
Winter closed her eyes, tears slipping down her cheeks.
Willow was handed the megaphone as Ironwood's gaze hardened.
"Make them listen."
Willow stood in the clearing, clutching the megaphone tightly as her trembling hands betrayed the calm she was struggling to maintain. Her pale face turned toward Ironwood, who stood a few feet away with his arms crossed, his expression unreadable. The forest was eerily silent, save for the occasional crackle of a distant fire and the faint hum of the military transport idling behind them.
She swallowed hard, then raised the megaphone to her lips.
"Weiss… Winter…"
The sound of her voice echoing through the trees sent a shiver down Weiss's spine. She huddled closer to Winter, who clenched her fists, barely able to look.
Willow's voice faltered but steadied as she spoke again. "If you're out there, please listen to me. I know this is hard. I know it's terrifying. But you have to be strong. Things are… they're only going to get harder from here."
She paused, her breath catching in her throat.
"Whitley is safe," she said softly, her words feeling heavier than the silence that followed.
Winter's head snapped up, her lips parting in disbelief. "What?"
Willow looked down for a moment, then raised the megaphone again. "But it was Whitley who… who surrendered me to General Ironwood."
Weiss's heart sank. Winter's hand shot to her mouth, trembling.
"Don't blame him," Willow pleaded, her voice desperate. "He was scared. He thought he was doing the right thing. Misguided, yes, but not malicious. Just like I was."
Her voice broke as tears streamed down her face.
"And I'm sorry. For everything."
Weiss felt her breath hitch.
"I'm sorry for the drinking. For ignoring you. For shutting myself away when you needed me. For letting you grow up in a house where love was something you had to fight for." Her voice cracked. "I should've been there for you both. I should've cared more. I should've tried more. But no matter how broken I was… I loved you both. Every day. I love you both."
Winter's lips trembled as tears rolled down her cheeks. Weiss pressed her hands over her mouth, stifling a cry.
Willow took a shaky breath and turned to face Ironwood, her eyes burning now—not with fear, but with defiance. She slowly lifted the megaphone again, her voice cutting through the air like a blade.
"Weiss. Winter."
Ironwood's gaze sharpened.
Willow pointed directly at him. "I need you two to do me a favor. One that I hope you will fulfill."
Ironwood tilted his head, but his expression remained cold.
Willow's voice hardened. "I want you two to fight..." Points at Ironwood. "And kill this piece of shit. Or die trying."
The words hit like thunder.
Weiss's eyes widened in shock, her breath catching in her throat. Winter stared in disbelief, frozen.
Ironwood exhaled through his nose and turned to Lieutenant Hale.
"End this," Ironwood said quietly.
Hale nodded and approached Willow, his footsteps slow and deliberate. He drew his pistol, the barrel gleaming faintly as he raised it to the side of her head.
"Wait!" Weiss hissed, reaching for Myrtenaster, but Winter grabbed her arm.
"Don't," Winter whispered sharply, her voice breaking.
Willow closed her eyes, her expression calm and resolved.
A gunshot echoed through the forest.
Weiss's world seemed to shatter in that instant. She gasped as Willow's body collapsed, her knees giving out first before she crumpled onto the ground.
"No!" Taiyang roared, lunging forward, only to be restrained by two soldiers who dragged him back toward the transport.
Weiss's mouth opened in a silent scream, but Winter spun her around and clamped a hand over her mouth, pulling her close. Weiss's muffled cries broke into sobs, her body trembling violently as she struggled against her sister's grip.
Winter held her tightly, her own tears falling freely now. She pressed her forehead against Weiss's, whispering, "Shh. Don't. Don't let them hear you. Please."
Weiss collapsed into Winter's arms, her sobs shaking them both.
Ironwood looked around the forest one last time, his eyes scanning the shadows, searching for any sign of movement. When he saw none, he gave a small nod.
"Back to Vale," he ordered.
Hale holstered his weapon, his expression unreadable as he forced Taiyang into the vehicle. Ironwood climbed into the transport without another word, and the convoy began to pull away, leaving Willow's body behind.
The sound of engines faded into the distance.
Weiss fell to her knees, finally free of Winter's grip. Her tears soaked into the dirt as she stared at the spot where her mother had fallen.
Winter knelt beside her, placing a hand on her shoulder as tears streamed down her own face. "I'm sorry," she whispered. "I'm so sorry."
Blake turned away, swallowing the lump in her throat. Coco wiped at her eyes, her hands shaking, while Ren and Jaune looked toward the ground, unable to meet anyone's gaze.
Nora hugged herself, her face pale and stricken.
Yang finally released Ruby, who collapsed into her sister's arms, sobbing quietly as Yang held her tight, fighting back her own tears.
NIGHT
The night was unnervingly quiet. The forest that surrounded the clearing seemed to swallow all sound, leaving only the faint crackle of the campfire to fill the void. The stars above shone dimly, their light unable to pierce the weight of sorrow that hung in the air.
Weiss knelt before the fresh mound of earth, her trembling fingers brushing over the dirt. At the head of the grave, a rough wooden cross stood, hastily carved but carefully placed. Willow Schnee's name had been etched into the wood with the tip of Myrtenaster—Weiss's only way to honor her mother in the absence of anything else.
Tears streaked Weiss's cheeks, fresh trails forming even after hours of crying. Her hands, stained with dirt, trembled as she placed a single sunflower at the base of the grave.
The petals glowed faintly in the firelight, their golden hue standing out against the dark soil.
"I'll miss you, Mom," Weiss whispered, her voice barely above a breath. Her throat burned from the weight of her grief, but she forced the words out. "I'm so sorry… for everything."
She lingered a moment longer, her fingers grazing the dirt as if afraid to let go. Then, slowly, she stood and turned toward the campfire.
Winter sat near the flames, her knees pulled to her chest and her face buried in her hands. Her shoulders shook with silent sobs, but every now and then, the words escaped—broken and raw.
"I'm sorry… I'm sorry… I'm so sorry…"
Weiss's heart twisted at the sight. She wiped at her own tears, though it did little to stop them from falling, and walked toward her sister.
Winter didn't look up as Weiss approached. Her arms were wrapped tightly around herself, her entire body trembling. The firelight cast flickering shadows across her face, highlighting the anguish etched into her features.
"I… I couldn't stop it," Winter choked out, her voice cracking. "I couldn't stop him. I couldn't save her…"
Weiss knelt down beside her, her voice soft but steady. "Winter…"
Winter's breath hitched, and she looked up at Weiss, her tear-filled eyes reflecting nothing but despair. "I let her die, Weiss. I let him kill her."
"No," Weiss said firmly, though her own voice trembled. She reached out and took Winter's hands, pulling them gently away from her face. "No, you didn't. That wasn't your fault."
Winter shook her head violently. "I could've done something. I—I should have—"
"You couldn't," Weiss interrupted, squeezing her sister's hands. "You couldn't have done anything. He was always going to kill her."
Winter broke completely, the walls she had tried so desperately to hold up finally crumbling. She collapsed against Weiss, burying her face into her younger sister's lap as sobs tore through her.
Weiss held her, her arms wrapping tightly around Winter's trembling body.
"It's okay," Weiss whispered, her voice breaking. "I'm here. I'm right here."
Winter clung to her, her hands gripping Weiss's jacket like a lifeline as the weight of her grief poured out.
Weiss stroked her sister's hair, her fingers moving slowly and gently, as if the motion alone could soothe the unbearable pain they both felt.
The tears came again, no longer quiet but raw and unrestrained. Weiss bowed her head, letting them fall freely as she cradled Winter.
"I'm sorry too," Weiss said softly, her voice breaking. "For all the times I didn't say it enough. For all the times I left you to deal with everything on your own. For all the times I wasn't there when I should've been."
Winter didn't respond, but her sobs slowed, her grip on Weiss tightening as if to say she understood.
Weiss looked back toward the grave, the sunflower's petals swaying gently in the night breeze.
"I'll make this right, Mom," Weiss whispered, though her voice barely carried. "I promise."
Winter's breathing began to even out, though her tears still fell silently. Weiss continued to stroke her hair, her own tears falling quietly as she stared into the fire, its flickering glow barely keeping the darkness at bay.
Neither sister spoke again.
The flames crackled softly, and the stars above continued to watch over them as grief and love intertwined in the stillness of the night.
End of Chapter 3.