Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

There is nothing strong about Yang Xiao-Long.

Not that a child should expect to be. Yet, not even 10 years old and she already understands what it’s like to put another in danger. To think you know better, to think you’re doing good - that you’re playing the part of the big sister well - only for it to end with a face full of gnashing teeth and your uncle having to swoop in and save the day. And all you could do was scream.

It’s pure dumb luck that they’re alive. Yang doesn’t need any reminders. So she focuses on anything else; the trees surviving through the mountains of snow, forest critters and their morning call, the joyous buzz of a little sister--

Damnit, no, try again.

The old cart, held in her right hand, that trundles through the snow--

No.

Her ‘brows furrow. Her uncle's own hand, held tight in her left--

Stop it .

Her teeth grind together. Ruby bouncing in his arms--

Damnit, I said no!

She kicks at the snow, a small reprieve but it doesn’t do much but silence a pleasant conversation. She looks away further and lets herself be pulled along; Qrow starts up his chatterbox of a niece before she can ask her big sister any questions.

Frustration is soon to become a familiar presence and Yang’s sure Qrow can tell as her grip holds even tighter. She won’t meet his eyes, won’t accept that worried look she’s sure he’s giving her. She doesn’t deserve it. It’s a scornful amount of guilt and she isn’t willing to let it go anytime soon.

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Home. It feels so unfamiliar now. It also puts her into a panic. 

It’s hard not to let the guilt consume you when you’re about to face your father. Especially without the solution you promised him. An idea born from a picture you stole; a memory kept for private eyes. 

The thought I deserved to know still lingers.

At some point, through the pure disarray of her mind, Yang realises she made it up to the door. She didn’t even notice Qrow pull her away from the cart. He’s having enough trouble with Ruby so Yang makes it easier by letting him go. Ruby solves all their problems by jumping out of his grasp and pushing the door open.

Silence. That’s all they find. A complete and utter quiet.

No cries of relief or bearhugs full of a father’s love. Just, nothing.

Yang wants to cry.

“Where’s dad?” Ruby asks. So curiously uncertain.

Qrow approaches with caution and a natural ease. “He must still be lazing about upstairs. It’s pretty early for you girls to be up.”

“That makes sense!” Ruby’s quick reply gains a chuckle from Qrow. Yang musters a smile.

Qrow makes sure to go up the stairs first, just in case. Ruby is barely a step behind, giddy even now, disappointment quickly forgotten. Yang brings up the rear, almost ready to bolt at the last possible second. She looks at the TV and wonders what cartoons are on at this time.

They make it to the landing, small movements made to keep the house as still as it was. Then, with a slam, Tai’s door is open. While Qrow takes up the view, Yang can still see her dad. His sleeping form, groggily perceiving that he’s awake. Then he’s right back to sleep.

Yang has never felt so angry.

“Yang?” Right. Ruby’s still here. She breathes out and holds her little sister’s hand.

They watch as Qrow inspects their dad. First, with a furious glare that Yang mirrors. Then with a quiet sigh once he sees the man's face. They still can’t see Tai but Qrow’s expression is quick to worry them.

“Is dad alright?” Ruby asks for them.

“He’ll be fine. Probably came down with something.” Yang isn’t stupid enough to believe him but goes along with it for Ruby’s sake. “Why don’t you two go to bed,” Qrow suggests. “It’s been a long night.”

And just like that, the exhaustion hits her. Any adrenaline Yang had left long ago. Bed sounds nice. “Okay, Uncle Qrow.” Yang says, pulling Ruby into their room.

“Goodnight, Uncle Qrow. Goodnight, Dad.” Ruby whispers out; ever the considerate one.

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Yang closes their door. Letting out a sigh as she’s greeted by twin twinsize beds. Ruby is immediately jumping on top of her own. Right, Ruby slept through the whole thing.

“What do you want to do?!” The little sister faux whispers.

“Get into bed and go to sleep.” The elder sister whispers back.

“But I want to read…”

“Then you read.” It’s not like they would be told off.

Ruby pouts but Yang has the sense to ignore it. She’s already on the edge of her tether and getting angry at Ruby is something she won’t do. So she makes her way into bed and says goodnight with a sort of smile. The turning of pages sends her off to sleep.

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It’s dark. Too dark. The window must be covered.

Yang flings herself from under her covers and feels a crunch under her feet.

She was in her bed. Right?

The world turns and she can barely breathe. There’s a distance to everything and it’s all caught up in the glow of the cracked moon. Should she cry out for help? No. She should take in her surroundings: crumpling trees dripping with anguish, and snow so thick it’s ready to swallow her whole; a tiny figure in this forest of dread.

Not willing to wait around for an answer, Yang moves forward. Every step is sickling long, pulling one foot out and then letting it dive back under the pure, white snow. She hears a whistling ahead. Maybe there’s a way out of here?

Then she hears a voice.

Mum?

“Sweetie? Why are you out this late.”

“I’m not sure. I was looking for you, I think.”

It’s mum. It’s Summer. Why is everything echoing so much? Why does she want to cry so badly? Why can’t she bring herself to hug her mother?

“Do you want to sit with me? I’ve got some baked goods in the oven.” Summer’s voice is sickly sweet, almost bordering on annoying but Yang would never say that to her mum. Instead, she sits.

Yang’s brow furrows. “Why are you here? Why aren’t you at home?”

Summer won’t stop smiling. “I’m waiting on a friend. She’s incredibly late though.”

“Who?”

“Your mother, of course.”

Like a flash, the wind picks up. A hideous screeching noise accompanies it. Yang can feel it all pinpricking her eyes, sending her head into a headache so painful she can’t even comprehend it.

Summer won’t stop smiling.

“Oh dear, I suppose you aren’t ready yet. Why don’t you come back another time.”

“I’m-- I’m ready-- Just wait a second.”

Then, another voice joins. Far gruffer but undeniably feminine. “I’m afraid, Yang, you’re really not.”

It takes Yang all her might to look up. It’s all worth it. There stands her birth mother: Raven.

Behind her is a little, red cart.

“Oh, Raven.” Summer speaks up. “Did you bring Ruby?”

“Of course. It’s only right for a child to be with her mother.”

Yang can’t stop staring. At Raven or the cart, she’s not sure. But both are here, right in front of her. Maybe she should cry?

“Do you want to wake up your sister?” Raven asks. She has a quiet sort of kindness to her. One enveloped in confidence.

“Yeah, um, sure,” Yang mutters out.

“Well, go on then kiddo. Don’t keep her waiting.”

Blinking away her surroundings, Yang stands up. She approaches the cart, mechanically, almost forgetting her reason. Ruby must still be asleep . Is her first thought. Why is it so red? Is her second. Is she snarling at me? Is her third.

The Grimm take away her fourth.

/-/

It’s dark. But not too dark.

Yang is dripping with sweat but she’s awake. It doesn’t take her long to start crying. She holds her hair so tight she’s sure to pull a few strands. Blonde locks curled around cold fingers. Gods, is she cold.

She grits her teeth and tells herself it’s ok to cry where nobody can see you. Closing the window makes it easier to forget the nightmare. It’s a start to forgetting it all.

Ruby hasn’t even begun to stir, softly snoring under a blanket of fairytales. Yang moves toward her, hand clasping her mouth to drown her shuddering breath. As soon as the books are shut and put away, Yang is under the covers. She hugs Ruby unbearable tight.

Her sister is warm. Still warm. Not a speck of red to be seen. Yang’s entire body gets quiet. She’s alive. They both are. That’s all that matters.

Red eyes watch them fall asleep.

Chapter Text

Qrow wakes up in an unfamiliar bed. It’s cosy and clearly well-used; His greater form finds it difficult to adjust to the leftover imprint. He hasn’t slept a wink. Not that he planned to but sleep is always a good way to keep your mind clear. A lesson he’s attempted to instill into his nieces enough times it’s become exhausting.

He just wishes the person next to him wasn’t so familiar.

Taiyang Xiao-Long. His sister’s ex-husband, his best friend’s husband, and his blood brother. A friendship forged in battle both on and off the field. Grimm are deadly but the wrath of women have given them their fair share of scars. Not that he blames any of them; not when they were young, stupid and reckless. Not when sharing a bed meant nothing but a little experimentation between friends.

Qrow sighs out as much early morning exhaustion as he can muster. He turns to his side and finally takes in the person he’s been ignoring. Tai is sleeping. Peacefully? He can’t be sure but the man hasn’t done anything but lie down for the better part of a week now. At least that’s what Ruby told him; the poor girl. Yang’s silent agreement almost melted any future sympathy.

Those two are tough cookies, he can be sure of that. It’s easy to be proud of their ability to survive a situation like this. It’s difficult to ignore the cause when he’s lying right next to you.

“What a fucking mess,” Qrow mutters out.

Tai’s only response is to snore in his face, the bastard.

Qrow lets a wry smile take hold as he pulls himself out of bed. He cracks his neck and stretches where needed, letting his aura take care of any extra pains. Adult bodies suck and he’s never been so appreciative of his soul's ability to protect its shell ever before. Standing up, he makes his way ‘round the bed and prepares to get to work.

“Alright, Tai, time to get up.” Tai shoves his face further into his pillows. Qrow clicks his teeth. In one swift motion, the covers are thrown off. Qrow couldn’t be more pleasantly surprised that Tai is fully clothed well this makes things less embarrassing. Or at least as un-embarrassing as lugging your blood brother into the bridal position. He doesn’t even want to think what Raven or Summer would think of this. Maybe let’s not think of them Qrow tells his brain.

The trip down the stairs is agonisingly slow and helps Qrow remember why he was called the weakest of Team STRQ. “Come. On. You. Big. Lug,” Qrow chokes out. They just about manage to make it to the sofa before Qrow’s arms fall off. The both of them let themselves lounge on the couch. Tai barely makes a sound the whole trip down, his eyes glazed over.

Qrow keeps his sigh in and gets up again. Coffee should help him think better. It’s easy to add some stolen ‘guest’ leant alcohol as well. Not for Tai, of course, that wouldn’t make him a very good caregiver. Qrow cringes at the word, immediately retracting the thought.

Sorry, Tai, but I ain’t wiping your ass for you.

At the very least, Tai responds to the coffee. He takes it automatically. The robotic way he drinks it, as if he is being forced, doesn’t alleviate any worries. The TV is always an easy distraction.

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By the time Qrow is functional enough to stand up again, Ruby has already woken up and is dragging him towards the shed. He looks back at Tai before heading out the door, hoping to see even a twinge of a reaction, but all he gets is sleepy eyes barely focused on the news. He can’t find it in himself to be disappointed. Luckily, Ruby doesn’t notice, far too busy with her latest quest.

I’m not awake enough for this…

The shed is a mess and clearly was even before Summer went MIA. Guess that’s what happens when you end up with an overactive creative for a kid. A child’s imagination… Qrow can’t say he’s not jealous and Ruby’s drive to make whatever comes to her mind is infectious. It almost stops him from questioning her latest request.

“You want to see my weapon?”

“Yeah! That weird sword you were swinging about.” She says it all with her whole body. It’s difficult not to be amused.

“You mean a scythe?”

“Oh,” Ruby taps her head like she’s retrieving a memory, “Like the Grim Reaper!”

Qrow hums at the comparison. At least he’s making the impression he wants. “Where did you hear about that guy?”

“One of Mum’s fairytales. He seemed cool.”

“As cool as me?”

Ruby looks honestly offended. “No way! Nobody’s as cool as you Uncle Qrow.”

“Guess I do have some pretty wicked moves.”

“Could you show me some? With your scythe?”

Damn puppy dog eyes. She’s been playing him from the start. “Fine. But stand back.”

With a few swift actions, Qrow picks up his scythe and spins it with complete control. Muscle memory built upon years of practice. Yeah, he would say he’s pretty cool.

The way Ruby’s eyes light up, he would say she agrees. “Can I play with it?”

“No. Only big girls like your mum get to play with weapons like these.”

Ruby groans, “But that’s so long away.”

“Keep to your sticks & stones, kiddo, and maybe you’ll get a go when you’re older.”

Ruby’s back in pure pout mode but clearly isn’t deterred. With a look of pure determination she marches further into the shed, among the wreckage of old machinations, and soon enough appears with a long stick, a piece of cardboard, and scissors. Soon enough she’s got her own weapon in hand and is perfectly mirroring him - his stance and everything - and looks ready to fight.

Qrow’s gotta admit, his niece is one resourceful kid.

“Alright,” he says, “What are you going to do with that?”

“Slay some monsters!”

“Yeah?”

“Yup. Just like you, Uncle Qrow.”

Her entire face is beaming so bright that sun rays could bounce off it. It’s just an innocent display of an unlikely dream.

Then why does he feel like throwing up?

I can’t handle this.

“Are you okay, Uncle Qrow? Your entire face went droopy.”

“Yeah, Ruby. I’m okay. Why don’t you go inside and find Yang? Maybe you could hunt monsters together?”

The plan is apparently so exciting that she runs inside the house with barely a goodbye. Qrow can only sigh in relief.

“I’m far too tired for this.” He mutters to no one but himself.

/-/

It doesn’t take him long to find a spot to think. Up in the trees, among the other birds, Qrow watches. He doesn’t go too far, happy to stay noticeable; there’s no reason to make his nieces wonder where he’s gone. Not that they would have a problem spotting a 6ft tall Hunter clad in white, black and red perching on a leafless branch.

Ruby has just about managed to pull Yang out of bed and towards the shed. They wave at him once he’s spotted - both gasping at what must be a strange sight but Ruby’s soon back to work, now with her big sister.

It doesn’t stop him from wishing they would focus on something a little less likely to get themselves both killed. But what can he expect, kids will be kids. They gotta learn somehow. He hopes that Yang will at least want to pull Ruby back after her experience last night.

Already looking to ruin your niece's dreams, huh, Qrow? What a shitty uncle you must be.

His hand palms down his face in a vain attempt to rid him of all this stress. How the heck did he end up inspiring Ruby to chase after his crapshoot of a life? She’ll probably end up as altruistic as Summer. Would that be such a bad thing? It is if she goes missing.

Couldn’t Ruby just put those efforts towards something safer, like being a doctor or literally anything that doesn’t involve Grimm? Not that he would have the heart to tell her to stop. Way to be responsible, Qrow. It’s even worse that he’s flattered he’s inspired the little brat.

What a mess.

Gods, he wishes Summer was here…

But what if she was?

Like lightning, the thought clicks. He just has to find her. Even if Tai has already given up, Qrow knows she’s far too stubborn to just disappear like that.

With a look of pure determination, he jumps off the tree and marches towards the house.

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“But you just got back.” Ruby whines.

It’s not surprising that Ruby isn’t happy about the development. Especially with the way she keeps looking back at her dad. He hopes he bought them enough supplies to survive.

“I won’t be long,” Qrow says, squatting in front of his niece.

“Promise.”

“Promise.” He rubs Ruby’s head and finds an honest smile in the action. “I’ll make sure to bring back something awesome.”

“It better be super awesome!”

Demanding, this one. He chuckles. “You bet.” With a groan, he stands up. “Now I need to have a talk with your old man.”

“But you’ll say goodbye? Right?” Qrow would take mock offence if Ruby didn’t look so scared.

“Of course. On my honour as a Hunter.” His grin brings back her smile and he couldn’t be more grateful to see it.

Before he can even think of talking to Tai, Qrow spots Yang. The elder sibling’s clearly got some questions. He just hopes he can answer them without making her cry.

“What’s with the sour face, kiddo?”

It takes her a moment to say it but Yang has always been an assertive one. “You’re looking for mum, right?”

Damnit. He should’ve known she would notice. “Yeah, Yang. I’m going to find Summer.”

“But you are going to find her?” Her eyes are pleading; a gaze that could pierce his aura.

He wishes he could reassure her.

Qrow lets himself fall to Yang’s eye level. “I know this is a lot to ask but I need you to be strong. Strong for your sister. Maybe even strong for your dad. Can you do that for me?”

At first, Yang looks so worried. So confused. But soon it turns into deadly determination. It’s a look he recognises all too well. “I can.” She says. And that’s that.

Qrow smiles. “I know you can, kiddo. I know you can.”

Yang just nods. Even this small Qrow can tell that she has a fury that won’t stop her. Maybe everything will be alright?

But just in case…

“If there’s ever an emergency, ring this number,” he holds out a piece of paper, “say exactly what I wrote on the back and soon enough you’ll get through to the right person. And don’t forget to mention that your Uncle Qrow sent ya.”

Qrow goes to get up but is soon locked in a hug. “Thank you, Uncle Qrow,” Yang muffles into his shoulder. “Love you.”

“Love you too, kiddo.”

Yang wipes her tears and stands strong. He smiles and ruffles her hair. Ruby is in good hands.

Now. Tai.

The man is in the kitchen now, staring down at some buttered bread Qrow tried to make him. It doesn’t look like he’s planning on eating it. Knew he’d be the tough one.

As soon as Qrow is next to him, he grabs the man by the shoulder and makes sure they’re at least facing each other. “Now, I’m only going to say this once. Your kids need you and I’m going away for a while. That means you need to get your shit together. No more of this moping.” Tai doesn’t look like he’s going to respond. Time to go big. “I’m bringing her home.”

Tai’s head lifts. It feels like an age since Qrow last looked into his eyes.

“Good luck.”

Qrow opens his mouth in surprise. He was so ready to berate him. To make sure he was at least awake. But even broken, Tai is still a good man.

“Thank you.”

Even if it’s small, Tai’s smile is sincere. Qrow gives it back twofold and grabs the man in a bear hug. Tai doesn’t reciprocate but that doesn’t matter. His friend will be fixed soon. These unpleasant feelings will be distant memories.

Qrow doesn’t cry when he says goodbye. He doesn’t cry when he hugs his nieces one last time. He doesn’t cry when he heads out the door. Even soaring across the oceans, Qrow Brawnren does not cry.

What’s the point in crying when everything will be alright?

Chapter Text

Taiyang was convinced he had lost everything.

Then Yang nearly burned the house down.

He should have seen it coming. His daughters had gone through every sweet treat Qrow had left them and now they were onto the ready meals. If he had it in him at the time, he wouldn’t have allowed the girls near any of that manufactured crap. Instead, he had joined them. Until the dreaded day they realised that Qrow, in his wisdom, had not checked the due-by dates.

He really should have seen it coming.

It was a hop, skip and a jump to Yang putting the stove on, chucking in whatever food she thought she could cook with, and then dumping enough oil to start a forest fire; not to mention that she practically almost did with how close they are to the trees. Even worse, she put Ruby on as ‘Assitant Chef’ aka a disaster in the making. 

Tai doesn’t think he’s laughed harder in his life.

They were covered in smoke and the alarm was just so loud . Yang looked about ready to burst into tears but Ruby, Ruby just looked so… confused. Tai was sure he should’ve been angry, should’ve berated them for even trying such a stunt but he knew at that moment he wouldn’t have had a leg to stand on.

His daughters had tried their hardest to do something good. To copy their parents. How could he possibly punish them for that?

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“Look at them. So peaceful.” Summer had said, sitting guard as her daughters slept peacefully under her watch.

“You should’ve seen them 2 hours ago,” Tai said, close by her side. “They tried their best to stay awake for you.”

“Then they deserve a treat when they wake,” Summer pushes Yang’s hair out of her eyes, “Something small.”

“Cookies again?”

“Cookies again.”

Summer barely took her eyes off Yang’s golden locks, letting them trail through her fingertips. “Do you think she will grow it out? Her hair, I mean.”

Tai looked quizzical but didn’t budge on his curiosity. “It would be a hassle to maintain.”

“I think it would look nice.”

“Barbers would cost a fortune.”

“I could look after it.” 

Tai scoffed. Ruby starts to shuffle. Summer glared at her husband.

“ Sorry,” he said, suddenly turning meek under his wife’s gaze.

Summer turned her attention to her youngest. A smile flittered across her face. “Do you think I looked as cute as Ruby is? When I was her age?”

Tai smirked, “We could find your photo album?”

“And burn it?”

“Not one for memories?”

Summer gave a mischievous grin. “Not the entertainment I’m looking for.”

Tai gulped. Summer took his hand.

“Come on, you silly, beautiful man. Let’s get out of their hair. I’ve got a busy day of baking tomorrow.”

“When do you think they’ll realise you do it more for yourself than for them.”

“When they stop enjoying my baking.”

Tai takes his wife in his arms. “As if that could, ever, ever , happen.”

/-/

Tai isn’t surprised when his daughters ask him to start cooking again and now that he’s off his ass he doesn’t really have an excuse.

“Please, Dad. I don’t want Yang to burn the house down again.”

“Hey! That was a one-time thing.”

What he doesn’t expect is Yang wanting to be by his side while he cooks. At first, he thinks it’s all a ploy just to prove Ruby wrong, to make a point. But then, he notices her focus, her utter dedication to his every movement; how he lets the meat sizzle, how the knife weaves through vegetables. He has never seen her so patient.

Ruby is, of course, the exact opposite. A hyper-realised ball of energy that has him gaining more knife cuts than he probably should. She feels bad for it every time, of course, and no good father shouts at his daughter for being who she is. For making a mistake. For being a child.

It’s still really annoying and he’s sure to develop some ulcers with how many times he bites his tongue.

He just wishes he could look his youngest in the eyes and not feel the need to cry.

Yang, surprisingly, is there to take the load. During every dinner, she keeps Ruby occupied. Whether it’s a random idea her little sister has or a bout of manic action or even just a hypothetical that goes way off the deep end, Yang is there with rapid attention, firing off just as many questions, and giving just as many answers. His eldest is amazing.

Tai is sure Summer couldn’t be more proud of her.

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It soon becomes a routine for Yang to look after Ruby. Whether Tai is cooking or just watching TV, Yang takes her excitable sister away to put her imagination to use on anything but her dad’s patience. He appreciates it, even if he feels bad about it.

Finally, he can relax.

Then, one quiet night, the doorbell rings.

The house hasn’t had any visitors before or since Qrow left and it’s not like Tai’s in the mood to talk to disgruntled parents about why their kid's grades are not up to par. Even the mailman might set him off.

What he does not expect is his old headmaster standing on his front porch, giving him that usual disarming, all-knowing smile.

It’s easy to slam the door in Ozpin’s face.

“Taiyang. I just wish to talk,” Ozpin says, muffled by the door.

“We don’t have anything to talk about.” He bites back. He hopes he doesn’t wake the kids, they don’t need to see this.

“I believe we do.”

Damnit. Tai knows that Ozpin would stand there all night if necessary. The man’s patience is supernatural. And it’s not like he’s not curious why Oz is here. But maybe his stubbornness will win out.

Heh. He won’t get the best of me this time.

“Your youngest called me.”

The door almost swings off its hinges. “ What?” Tai grits out.

Ozpin raises an eyebrow. “Ruby Rose. Your youngest. She said she needed help.”

Tai looks beyond confused. “What are you even talking about.”

“May I come in?”

Tai’s hand stays firmly planted on the door. His glare looks like it’s going to be permanent.

Ozpin sighs. “How have you all been coping?”

“Fine. Now, if that’s all you want the door- the port is that way.”

“Taiyang-”

Tai slams his fist on the door. “Don’t come here all ‘Taiyang’ this and ‘Taiyang’ that. You’re not welcome here .”

“I promise I mean no harm.”

“Fat lot of good that did any of us.”

“Your daughter-”

“Don’t. How did she even call you?”

“Qrow.”

Damnit Qrow,. “Well, he’s not here.”

“I’m aware.”

“Keeping tabs on us.”

Ozpin shakes his head. “You know I trust you.”

Tai crosses his arms. “The feeling clearly isn’t mutual.” 

“Dad?” A quiet voice calls.

Tai looks behind him and sees Ruby sitting on the stairs. Yang not far behind her. They both look…

Scared?

“Ms Rose is everything quite alright,” Ozpin says stepping forward but Tai won’t budge. This might be the closest Tai has ever seen the man glare.

Ruby shuffles, unsure of herself. Yang puts a hand on her shoulder and helps push her forward. Ruby just about manages to stutter out, “I hope so. Dad is shouting a lot.”

“I think he is simply worried about you,” Ozpin says.

Way to give me the benefit of the doubt.

Ruby doesn’t look convinced. It breaks Tai’s heart a little.

Ozpin brings himself forward again. “Would you like to talk to me about it?”

Tai steels himself, “No she doesn’t-”

“Dad!”

Oh all people, it’s Yang that catches their attention. So small, yet so determined. She stands her grand in front of the shocked gazes. “Let Ruby talk.”

Tai shifts his eyes between all 3 parties. A million thoughts rush through his head. Ruby looks so uncomfortable. Yang almost looks ready for a fight. Ozpin just tilts his head, still asking for permission.

Tai stands back. He finally relents.

“Thank you for your hospitality,” Ozpin says ( was that sarcasm?) as he enters.

“Don’t push it,” Tai bites back.

He watches as Ozpin walks diligently towards his kids. His greetings are polite as usual. His next question has Tai on edge again.

“May I talk to Ruby in private?”

Before Tai can even spit out a retort, Yang is giving him an absolutely furious look. He never knew a child could look so angry. He’s soon gritting his teeth as he manages to say “Sure. Take your time.”

“Thank you, Taiyang.”

He rolls any competent round his clenched jaw. “No problem.”

“Where should we speak?”

“The kitchen,” he says, pointedly sitting down on the couch.

“I believe Ruby may want some privacy.”

“It’s there or you go.” Yang gives him that look again. “I’ll turn up the TV.”

Ozpin nods (the calm bastard) . “Very well.”

As Ruby meekly wanders to the kitchen behind Ozpin, she doesn’t give her dad a second glance, clutching a yellow bear plushie all the way there. Yang is soon sitting next to her dad, clearly looking to chew him out.

“Thanks,” is all she says.

Tai doesn’t say a word as he switches from the news to an old cartoon.

/-/

The conversation lasts an episode with ad breaks, a clean half an hour that has Tai on edge the entire time. Yang barely seems phased by Ozpin’s presence. It just ticks him off all the more. Why is he even here? What does he want?

His eyes drift towards the kitchen.

I won’t let him take you too.

Ruby finally leaves the kitchen, light on her feet and silver eyes shining anywhere but in his direction. Ozpin has that damned smile, one he can’t ascertain but he’s positive he’s up to no good. Nobody with that much influence would stop himself from preparing for the future.

Tai clenches his fist, eyes wide as he studies everything. He stands suddenly, interrupting the peace. Everybody looks his way with some level of shock. Good , he thinks. This can end quickly. 

“Let me get the door for you,” Tai says, calm and focused, meeting Ozpin’s eyes. 

A flash of disappointment crosses his old teacher’s face but he keeps up that false positivity. Any attempts to decipher him are impossible. They walk to the door.

“But, Dad… Can he stay for dinner?” Ruby is pleading. He won’t have any of that.

“No.” He states. “I’m sure he has a lot of important business to take care of. Right, Oz?”

Ozpin nods, willing to go along this time. It’s not as if it’s much of a lie. 

As soon as he leaves, Ruby is running up the stairs.

“Ruby-”

“I don’t want to talk!” She shouts back, not even turning around.

The door slams shut and he’s left with Yang again. They look at each other and she just shrugs, turning back to the TV. 

Tai puts his face in his hands. What did I do wrong?

He pouts and falls onto the sofa, watching as a princess saves herself from a pack of monsters. He slumps further while Yang excitedly screams at the TV.

He rolls his eyes and lets himself doze off again.

When they have dinner, Ruby doesn’t say a peep. He sighs into his spaghetti. I’m sorry, Summer, but I can’t do this without you.

In bed, as he’s taken by his slumber, Taiyang makes one final wish. Bring her back soon, Qrow. Please.

Chapter Text

Raven has only ever valued strength and her brother is the epitome of weakness. He tries his best to come across as a proud Hunter, the man who slays the monsters, but she knows what he really is. A tired drunk looking to escape his own terrible choices. And now the idiot once again finds himself at her doorstep, asking for a favour, surrounded by the family he left behind.

The nerve.

“I don’t want to help you, Qrow,” she spits out.

“Yeah. I know that.” Qrow shakes his head, acting like she’s the fool. “Doesn’t change the fact that you fucked up and I’m happy to help fix that mistake of yours.”

“Summer was not a mistake. She made her own damn choice.”

“And you were the one who led her there.”

She places her hand on the hilt of her sword. “Don’t.”

His smirk is as annoying as ever. “You really want to fight?”

She matches his amusement with a terrifying aura, smile tilting too far, gaze unwavering. “You’re trespassing. I’m in my right.”

“Says the bandit.”

Raven rolls her eyes. “Don’t be a hypocrite, Qrow.”

His bark of laughter has her snarling. “You want to go there, Raven. Because I could give you a 15-point-presentation in front of the whole class on how wrong that statement is.” He throws his arms around, gesturing to the whole bandit camp.

Her snarl doesn’t scare him but her legion of fighters are looking excited. Maybe it’s time she give them a show. Qrow seems to notice as he goes to grab the weapon off his back.

The ping of a scroll saves him from another beating.

Qrow sighs and holds up a finger, “One moment.”

The whole camp groans in frustration. His eyebrows rise in a way that tries to bate her as he takes in the news. She doesn’t budge.

A little disappointedly, he casually reveals the message. “It’s from Tai.”

Mummers immediately occur through the camp, a ripple of conversation as the ‘One who defeated Raven’ is mentioned. She stamps it down immediately by drawing her weapon, a katana bathed in red dust. She points it Qrow’s way. Her brother is smart enough to grab his own weapon. The whole world goes quiet.

“We will talk inside,” she says with a motion of her sword.

He lets out a breath of relief but his shoulders don’t sag. “Thought you’d never ask.”

They put their tools away and her bandits grumble at the lack of bloodshed. She smiles and decides to make it up to them later with a raid. If it pisses off her brother, that’s just a bonus.

/-/

As soon as they walk through the entrance of her tent, Raven is asking “What happened?”

Qrow says, falling onto one of the many cushions. “Surprised you care,”

“Qrow…” She bites back desperation.

They stare each other down once again, Qrow utterly relaxed, his right arm resting a top his knee while she stares daggers. He finally relents, “Tai isn’t happy about Ozpin visiting.”

“You let that parasite into your home?” Raven seethes.

Qrow puts his hands out in surrender, “I gave his number to Yang in case of emergencies. Looks like Ruby got a hold of it…”

Raven scoffs. “You idiot.”

“Yeah, yeah, I know.”

Raven takes her seat at the head of the table, “You know as well as I do that he must be up to something. Even Tai can see that.” She thinks it should hurt more to insult her ex-husband.

“Raven, I really don’t need your conspiracy theories right now.”

“Then what is he doing talking to little Ruby Rose.”

“That wasn’t supposed to happen.”

“Yet it did.”

Qrow throws his hands up. “What do you want me to do, be ‘round there 24/7?”

“If Tai isn’t strong enough-”

“Stop insulting my friends.”

Raven stills for a moment. Fingers tapping the table. “This fight is pointless.”

“Way to state the obvious, Sis.”

They sit in silence for a minute; contemplating this broken family. Both still willing to try. Both unable to convince the other.

What a mess.

Raven is the first to talk. “Brother. Ozpin is not what he seems.”

Qrow’s retort is quick, “The man is a friend.”

Raven breathes slowly and keeps her anger down. “No. He’s a manipulator. He doesn’t care about you, me or anyone else. We are tools to him. Why don’t you get that?”

Qrow’s eyes are tired yet livid, and his words fall like acid. “Because he stuck around.”

Raven won’t admit it hurts. She won’t admit that tears pinprick her eyes. That her throat goes dry at the mere mention of her guilt. So she sits up further and simply eyes her brother.

“Did you want something, Qrow, or were you just coming here to make yourself feel better.”

Her words are sharp and clean, not a stutter or a bit of regret can be found upon them. Qrow seems to realise his mistake. Good. It’s nice to see he isn’t only capable of following orders.

His next words are calm, collected, and full of certainty. “We need to find Summer.”

Raven can’t be sure if he’s saying that for himself, Tai, Yang, or even for her sake, but it’s enough to make her relent the anger pooling through her. To give him her strength.

“I can’t make a portal to Vacuo. You know what that means, right?”

Qrow shakes his head, his trademark grin lifting with his head. “Then we fly.”

/-/

The greatest desert on Remnant is a pain to traverse. If there is one thing Ozpin did right it’s to allow Qrow & herself to live up to their namesakes. Turning into a bird at will is an advantage they will forever have over their enemy. As well as a massive middle finger to pricey transportation. Any way to take from that false wizard is a win in Raven’s book. She is sure that Qrow sees it as a gift, not a man desperate to tempt them towards an impossible war. Sadly, she can’t get her thoughts across through squawks.

At this point, they’ve been flying for hours and exhaustion may set in. Landing would be the best option but at this point, the sibling rivalry has stepped in and neither are looking to glide to safety. Not until their destination is in sight.

It takes another half an hour before they see the storm. A great whirlwind of sand, the Yellow Death of Vacuo. It never stops and never ceases to take anyone who enters it.

Qrow buckles his knees when they land and gasps for air. Raven can’t help but laugh.

“Need a breather, brother?”

“Fuck… Off… Raven…”

He stands and glares but has no time for her. They’re on mission. She at least has the courtesy to take this seriously. “So what’s the plan, Qrow?”

“We enter,” he points forward, “that.”

Raven slumps. She knew her brother was an idiot but…”You’re kidding me.”

“Nope.”

“I swear this is-” stupid, asinine, the worst idea he’s ever had, “so dumb.”

“Use your words, Rae.” He’s never looked so serious saying that and it pisses her off all the more. Her glare has him continue. “Summer entered it. Why can’t we?”

“Because she still hasn’t returned.” Because she’s dead. “I can’t even open a portal to her.”

“Then we’ll have to enter the old-fashioned way.”

Into a storm that nobody has ever returned from.

Raven wants to think he’s being naive. That he really believes that. But denial is always a part of grief. She expected it would be over by now, that her brother would move on and drink his sorrows away. Instead, he’s brought her to the ass ends of nowhere to search for a ghost. Why is she even here again?

“We need to save her, Rae.”

Damn her bleeding heart.

She sighs. “Fine. Lead the way.”

His smile is genuine and she can’t help but appreciate it.

/-/

The inside of the storm is rough, even rougher than last time. It makes her remember why she didn’t go further before. It would be their death sentence if they didn’t have aura. Lucky for them, they know their souls well and keep a close, faint shield around their bodies at all times. She just hopes Qrow’s smaller amount can keep up with the sand smashing into their faces. It’s no surprise they left quick enough to forget to bring goggles or masks. Maybe it was just Qrow’s arrogance that he left them behind. Still, she chalks it off to her desperation.

Even in this utter mess, it takes her back. Twins that can’t help but get themselves into worse and worse situations. Not that a family of bandits meant an easy childhood of good decisions. If anything, their recklessness might have prepared them for this very day. Raven’s inclined to believe it when the Grimm appear.

It‘s spider Grimm, of course, hiding under the sand. Her options are clear: fight and possibly damage her aura or run and look like a coward. Qrow decides for her.

He lunges forward with his sword, cleaving the spider’s legs before it can even get near her. He hacks it to pieces in quick succession; with no wasted movement in sight. Her brother is serious, for once, and there is nothing that stands a chance against a man who has everything to lose.

She nods her thanks and gives an encouraging grin. It’s nice to have someone strong enough to face the Grimm with. To have a partner again. She just wishes it wasn’t founded upon such a desperate situation. He nods back and they move on like nothing happened.

Raven isn’t sure how long they walk for, or how many Grimm they kill, but she knows it shouldn’t have taken long to lose all sense of hope. Their aura is draining rapidly and the storm has no chance of stopping. All they’ve found so far are unfortunate souls that got sucked in here and ancient ruins whose origins will never be discovered. There is nothing to be found so why hasn’t she made them turn back yet?

As she considers the question, Qrow is tapping her on the shoulder. He’s pointing further forward, closer to the eye of the storm. Something is glinting in the distance, reflecting off a sun that can barely be seen. It seems stupid but she doesn’t stop walking, following her brother’s lead.

The storm becomes stronger, yet they still keep moving forward. Their aura drains faster and faster, yet they still keep moving forward. Their eyes burn, yet they keep moving forward. Even as the storm is so great they are brought to their hands and knees, struck by winds powerful enough to kill a weaker Hunter, they crawl towards the shining light. A glimmer of hope? Should she dare to hope? Is she really as foolish as Qrow?

He gets there first, his hand reaching as far as it can go, eyes straining to see it clearer. He grabs at the sand, pulling himself into view of the light. Then he stops. And starts digging.

Raven sits there, confused. He just keeps digging. So desperate. Expecting to find anything. Once she’s finally next to him, she understands why.

A silver rose sits in the sand. It looks lost and already worn, discarded by the storm. She picks it up, recovering it from its resting place. There’s no point trying to dust it off. Even so, Qrow won’t stop digging.

Raven places a hand on his shoulder and he finally stops. He looks up, as slowly as possible, and stares at her. She shakes her head, for the first time letting her disappointment show. All he does is grit his teeth and keep on digging.

Her face turns into a scowl. They’ve lost her. She won’t lose him too.

/-/

She throws him to the ground, exhausted. Both of them just make it out with a slither of aura. It almost cracks with the fall. Even so, Qrow jumps up - undeterred by reality.

“Enough!” She pulls him back and slams a palm into his chest. “I have just dragged you through that mess, I am not doing it again.”

He’s breathless and holds the sigil tight. “I need to give it back to her. She’s still in there!”

“If you go in there again you will die.”

“It’s not mine to keep!” He says, clinging to some kind of unfounded hope.

This absolute moron.

Her brother always was stupid and he never learnt to listen to a word she had to say. So fixated on being a good person, on redeeming himself. So obsessed with his bad luck.

With stern eyes, she holds out her hand. “Then give it to me.”

Qrow looks shell-shocked. As if the words are unfathomable to him. As if she has any reason to care. As if Summer wasn’t her best friend too.

“If you can’t handle your grief,” she continues, “then let me take it.”

Qrows eyes sharpen. Clearly that was the wrong thing to say.

“No.” He bites back. “You wouldn’t deserve it.”

Her fist is deep in his face before he even finishes the sentence. Even Raven is surprised by her own speed. A simple shift of weight, and a twist of her hip, and her brother is sent flying. The bastard doesn’t stay down, already rolling onto his feet a second after he hits the ground. So she chases.

He goes to block a right hook, which turns into a kick shooting out at his leg, forcing him to buckle onto one knee; bowing before her. A quick knee to the face keeps him in the sand this time. But he still won’t let go of that damn silver rose

Her heel finds his hand and he groans out in pain. “You always were the weakest of us, using bad luck as an excuse for a lack of skill.” She keeps pushing but his aura keeps holding on. “Looks like your soul is just as weak.”

With tears in his eyes, Qrow grits his teeth. “At least I’m not a lonely bitch.”

Another kick to the chin sends blood flying. “And being a loyal dog is so much better. Summer is dead because of Ozpin!”

“And I could have saved her!”

They both go quiet. The storm still rages nearby. Sand settles upon their shoulders.

Raven holds her shoulder, gripping it tight.

So much pain.

“I could have too.”

Qrow goes silent in his understanding. Finally accepting the truth. Finally looking at her with pity. He stands and limps over. He gets closer, reaching out his arms, and she flinches back. His sympathy is clear. And so, she lets him hug her.

She hates that she doesn’t hate it.

The hug is short, and barely enough for either of them to feel safe, but it’s enough. For now, it’s enough.

Qrow pulls back, a sad smile adorning his face.

“Let’s go home,” he says.

She nods in agreement.

The two begin to walk, their aura recovering.

/-/

Qrow is quiet the whole way back. Not even a whisper of a tear or a stifled cry. He’s going to get stronger, Raven can tell.

With a bird's eye view of the camp, it’s easy to tell the tribe has gotten rowdy without her presence. Getting drunk is the best idea they can think of without her guidance. A complete lack of purpose without a fierce leader leads to a party. And they chose to leave her out of it. After everything she’s been through?

She arrives with a crash, divebombing from the air and landing without even a grunt of effort. It does not do to look weak in front of a meritocracy. All of them cower, as they should. A bout of silence that goes on forever. Only broken by the arrival of Qrow. His dishevelled appearance makes him far more menacing than he probably feels.

Good. This will make them listen.

“We have lost a powerful warrior today. One that would put all of you to shame.”

There’s grumbling among the crowd but nobody denies it.

“And tonight, we shall honour her legacy. Summer Rose’s legacy.” Raven steps back, standing alongside Qrow. “With my brother, we will drink ourselves ragged in her name!”

The bandits are confused for a second. Some attempt to understand through their drunken stupor. It takes the cheers of a child to bring the noise of glory.

“To Summer Rose!” Vernal squeaks, holding her cup up high.

“To Summer Rose!” The people chant.

Raven grabs her brother's shoulder as the man looks on in shock. She smiles at him and turns his face towards her. “She will be remembered, Qrow. Nobody could forget her.”

“Nobody could forget her…” He quietly repeats.

Raven pushes him forward towards the crowd, each of them quick to take him in their arms. Some old friends, some new acquaintances. All of them cheering his best friend’s name.

This. This is what she can do for Qrow.

“For you, great leader,” Vernal hiccups, a mug of stolen ale held up high.

Raven takes it, giving the young pup the smallest of smiles that sends Vernal into a giddy frenzy as she runs towards a group of survivors.

Just for tonight, she will allow such weakness. For tomorrow, tomorrow they will grow strong.