Well hello peeps! It's me again! My computer is trashed for good now, so I'm sorry for the delay in updates. Fear not, I will move heaven and earth to complete this story one way or another. I won't keep you poor souls waiting any longer, read on! :)

'It's been a while Oz, and you know for a fact that I don't send written letters unless it's not possible for me to meet you face to face. But I've got some concerns regarding my niece, who you are aware of I'm sure. Due to your unorthodox methods in how you run your academy, I'll let it slide that you agreed to enrol Ruby two years before regulated entry.

Anyway, enough with the ranting. knowing you, you've probably skipped through all of the minor details so I'll keep this brief. I've been searching all around Vale for this 'Shadow' as Ruby dubbed whatever it was she saw almost a year ago. I've gone all over the continent and found next to nothing. Witness reports of the 'shadow' (Do we really have to call it that? it's so childish.) are little to none.

I have however, discovered some White fang corpses littered across the city of Vale. Around 11 that I've discovered so far. From the weaponry and attire they're so fond of using, they seem to be high ranking assassins. It may be purely coincidental but all of these bodies have been located within a 50 to 100 meter radius around Ruby's location, roughly at the time of death. Obviously its too soon to be coming to conclusions but I'm ending up with more questions then answers. The only other sliver of evidence I've gathered are what looks to be superheated plasma stab wounds around the neck area of each corpse. I can't say what kind of weapon it was that killed these poor bastards, but its something advanced more then your standard Atlas pulse rifle. That's for damn sure. I'd suggest contacting the Tin Man about potential upgrades within the Atlas military.

I'll be out of contact for a while, as you are aware I'm due to meet up with our maiden acquaintance. I'll be in touch when I return. I'm trusting you to keep Ruby and Yang safe, Oz. I know for a fact that things are gonna get interesting soon.'

-Q

The ink soaked paper was held lightly in the calloused hand of an individual, while the other held a half empty flask containing alcohol as it was gradually sipped over the late hours of night. Red eyes re-read over the writing, paying attention to anything he might have missed out on writing down. Satisfied he folded the sheet in half and placed it in an envelope, preparing to send it out to beacon academy, whilst doing so as discreetly as possible. That one letter alone contained information that could prove useful should it fall into the wrong hands. Qrow rubbed his eyes and sighed, the effects of fatigue showing in the bags around his eyes.

Yawning out loudly, the aging Hunter leaned back on the chair and kicked up his legs, getting comfortable and hoping to get some shut-eye before he made his long journey out into the wilderness once again. He placed the note within the coat pocket where he normally placed his flask. As Qrow continued to sip away at the strong contents of liqueur, he lost himself in thought. Trying to make sense of what he discovered.

From what Ruby told him all those many months ago, this unknown figure was draped in armor, black as ebony and moved like a shadow. Simply coming out of nowhere as it killed a Deathstalker and saved Ruby in the process. And as fast as he appeared, he vanished into thin air. Out of the whole encounter that was described to him from Ruby, there was two factors that had him very alerted. This thing, whatever it was, it had knowledge of both him and Taiyang. Being observed from an outside party without his knowledge had Qrow more then a little paranoid to say the least. Enough to have him scout the entire island of Patch more then a few times to trace whoever was watching his family.

The other factor at hand was how Ruby described how this 'Shadow' fought against the Deathstalker. Even the most seasoned Huntsmen need to be cautious when combating a Grimm of such calibre on their own. Qrow at first thought Ruby was being ridiculous when she told him and Tai about how quickly the Deathstalker was disposed of. According to the young rose, this thing had killed the Grimm in a matter of seconds. Attacking the creature with no more then two moves.

It sounded so unbelievable that it took Ruby over several hours to make him even consider that her tale was truthful.

Qrow huffed to himself in frustration. "Feels like I'm on a damn goose chase." Another swig of the flask was followed up as the Huntsmen continued to become more intoxicated. He heard footsteps over the wooden floor that led into the kitchen, creaking on the floorboards waking up the drunken Hunter. There was a feminine huff as the figure approached him. "Uncle Qrow, it's a Tuesday. Is there any particular reason as to why your drinking yourself into a state like this?"

The person called out with a hint of humor to her voice. Qrow peeled an eye open to see his eldest niece grinning at him as she was snacking away at a protein bar. Blonde hair was all he could make out due the slight haze to his vision. He grunted out in annoyance and closed his eyes again. "Yang, a good day to drink is any time of the week. All you need is a reason and your all set for the day." He responded lazily, attempting to go back into his power nap. yang rolled her eyes as she came up with a retort. "Oh riiighhhhttt. Because you've been so productive today." She said in between bites of her snack.

Qrow simply folded his arms around his chest and got more comfortable. "Yeap." Was his short reply to the blonde brawler. Yang huffed and made her way out to the living room. "Don't forget that me and Ruby are leaving for Beacon tomorrow!" She called out from down the hall. Qrow gave an affirmative grunt before sleep took him. One of the last thoughts he had before sleep took him was; 'who the hell is this guy?' In regards to the black armoured figure that saved his niece. Only time will tell.

The next day: Beacon Academy:

The steaming of a hot brewed coffee was being gradually, and gratefully appreciated as it was fulfilling its purpose. The contents being consumed by one who enjoys the taste and bite of caffeine. Pale fingers wrapped around the mug as it was sipped away. An exhale of satisfaction escaped Ozpin. He took a glance at his watch as it ticked just onto 9:55 AM. The headmaster of Beacon Academy finished the last of his coffee before he gently placed the white mug on the desk behind him. He turned his relaxed gaze back out to the view of the school grounds below him.

The sheer beauty of the grounds was always a pleasant way for him to wind down after a long shift or to simply clear his mind. He placed both hands around his cane while he used it to lean on lightly. Brown eyes paid attention to the air ship in the distance, gradually getting closer the academy's docks. The old man was simply awaiting the arrival of the next generation of Hunters and Huntresses in training.

The wise and experienced individual knew for a fact that things were going to be rather interesting...and dangerous. White strains of hair fell in front of his rounded glasses. He reached up and flicked the loose bits of hair behind his ear before he returned to his previous posture. It was a beautiful day in Vale. The sun was out in full force but not to the point where it was unpleasant. A gentle breeze accommodated to make the weather even more enjoyable. It was perfect. Ozpin simply allowed himself to simply stare and appreciate the view.

At the other end of the headmaster's office, the doors to the elevator lift slid open. An aged and experienced Huntress stepped into the office with a steady stride. The clicks of her heels echoed faintly. The ends of her short worn cape rustling in the small draft. Held within her palm was A lit scroll containing all of the information on the new first year students. She came to a stop mid stride.

"The campus is empty Headmaster. The auditorium is prepared to house the new students before initiation." She reported. Her facial features hard and serious. Ozpin straightened his shoulders. He kept his gaze on the view in front of him as he responded. "Understood. When are our students due to arrive at the docks, Glynda?"

The Deputy Headmistress by the name of Glynda Goodwitch looked at the time displayed on the screen of her scroll. "In five minutes. I'd suggest heading down to introduce our new Huntsmen to Beacon Academy." Glynda advised. The Headmaster stood still. Though he may have remained silent, She was aware that her old friend had heard her clearly. Expecting no answer, she made her way to turn around and exit. Before she did so, She looked over her shoulder at the tall White haired figure and asked; "Have you seen Qrow's message?" Her brow was raised as she asked.

Ozpin Tapped his fingers on the top of his Cane lightly, his lips pressed into a thin line.

"I have."

The answer was short and to the point. Once again there was a brief silence in the air. Both professors deep in thought. Glynda nodded in acceptance. "And what are your thoughts regarding his concerns?"

Ozpin hummed softly as he recounted the note Qrow had delivered to him recently. The dusty old crow had been busy, it seems. To have a written note delivered at the last minute painted a clear picture to Ozpin that Qrow was becoming agitated and a little reckless. Qrow should know better then anyone then to send messages such as this instead of meeting in person. Though the Headmaster brushed off any concern he may have felt. Qrow was one of his most trusted agents and a good friend.

He mentally sighed to himself as he let the problem slide and began to ponder his response to his deputy. He continued to drum his fingers softly across the pommel of his cane. The turning and ticking of the massive clockwork cogs above them echoed faintly throughout the office.

"It is far too soon to take any proper action, for now. Evidence and information are scarce at best. While Qrow has been an efficient tracker it appears that there is little we can do on the matter. Though, one thing did catch my attention." Ozpin turned his attention away from the breathtaking view, his chocolate brown eyes meeting piercing green.

"In Qrow's earlier reports it states that this...'Shadow,' had weaponry that was highly advanced. According to the young Rose one of them was in the shape of a sword, covered in a glowing blue hue. It was said to be so quick and powerful it cut through an elder Deathstalker like butter." Ozpin then reached for the empty cup that was left upon his desk and proceeded to refill it with a fresh batch of hot caffeine. A satisfied grin was shown by the headmaster before he looked over to the other professor and gestured an offer. The blonde deputy waved a hand in polite decline. Ozpin shrugged his shoulders in as he took a light sip from the filed mug.

"The evidence that Qrow has stated matches the description of Miss Rose's tale. While there is only a small amount to support this, I'd say this warrants us to weary. I'm more then convinced that this far-fetched tale has some truth." The headmaster explained. Glynda nodded. Her eyes narrowed as a frown grew on her lips. "Do you want me to contact James? I feel like that he might be able to assist for a situation like this." She suggested.

Ozpin hummed to himself in contemplation while swirling the coffee in his hand while the other gripped the cane. "No. I believe that alerting the General would only make things more difficult for us to understand what exactly is going on. For now, we'll keep tabs on the young Rose."

The Deputy nodded again in agreement. "Understood Headmaster. " She glanced down at the time. "Sir, It's time. The Students have arrived at Beacon."

The old man Readjusted his glasses and drank a mouthful of the brewed goodness. The Headmaster began moving to the elevator with Glynda following close behind in stride. "Then let's welcome them to their new home. I think this year is going to be an experience more bizarre then ever before."

Beacon Academy docks...

Nerves gave off a tingling sensation in her stomach as a small scythe wielding teenager prepared herself. The air-ship that was transporting her, along with many others had just landed on the massive shuttle docks of this grand academy, one of the most renown academy's for training and molding some of the worlds most seasoned huntsmen.

Beacon.

She had made it. For many years the young Rose had fantasized of becoming a huntress. Like everyone else in her family. Her entire inspiration came from none other than Summer Rose. Her mother. Ruby was far too young to Have many memories of her, unfortunately. Summer Rose had undertaken an extremely dangerous Huntsmen contract far out in Grimm infested territory. She never returned and was presumed dead after search attempts failed due to how dangerous the journey to locate her became. Due to a body never being discovered, Ruby still held the slightest flicker of hope that some way, somehow, her loving mother was out there in the world.

As Ruby grew up over the years, her uncle Qrow had trained her. Her father had offered to do so, but her interest and fascination with big bladed weapons and firearms made her more inclined to receive higher benefits with Qrow. Taiyang had then agreed to train Yang in hand to hand combat orientated styles and gathered the materials for her older sister to construct her weapon.

Speaking of her older sister, Yang had ditched her as soon as the Air-ship touched down to solid ground. Apparently, the blonde brawler believed it was a good idea to mingle in the ground of new faces. Though much to Ruby's hesitation. After the flood of fresh students had swarmed the courtyard she aimlessly wandered into a bit of a bit of a hard place. The situation centered around a particular white-haired, pompous, and privileged girl who seemed to hold a superiority complex.

Ruby was held a victim to the wrath of this girl for walking into her luggage, and accidentally sneezing onto her (poorly sealed) dust viles. Even though she had apologized numerous times, the girl known as Weiss Schnee had continued to harass her until the involvement of a mysterious savoir came to her rescue. Another teen dressed in black and white with lengthy raven hair, and gold like eyes shining even in the daytime. She had boldly criticized the heiress on her family's shady business practices in regards on how they treat their Faunus workers. The young heiress turned her head and scoffed before storming off towards the gates of Beacon. And as soon as she appeared, the mysterious cat-eyed woman vanished before Ruby had a chance to introduce herself, along with thanking her.

The teen sighed dramatically, her social awkward tenancies had made even basic human interaction a challenge. Due to her gaining entry two whole years earlier it isolated her from all of her friends who were still at Signal. Adding to the unnecessary drama she found herself in the red caped girl decided to lay herself onto the floor. Her gaze now facing the open cloudless sky. The sun shining faintly as a light breeze flowed throughout the school grounds.

She had no idea how long she laid in that uncomfortable position before while on the marble like cobblestone, but it was enough time for her mind to drift.

"Well, at least I've made it I suppose." She mumbled. She blinked slowly as she mentally prepared herself to get up and ready.

"Hey, need a hand?" Ruby's eyes shot open to reveal a male teen standing over her. A gentle smile graced his lips. In her field of vision she could make out white armor plates on his shoulders and chest as wavy blonde hair (though a little scraggly) lightly touched his shoulders. Something about this boy called out to her. He seemed so familiar but she couldn't tell why.

Flashbacks to that incident six months ago brought back vivid memories of her first ever close encounter with death's door. How an elder Deathstalker came seconds away from killing the child before an unlikely rescue surfaced at the last minute.

Vague images of glowing blue surrounding a jet black shrouded figure, were the only glimpses Ruby had seen of her savoir. It sent chills down her spine when she came into eye contact with the shadow like being. Haunting glowing eyes of glowing blue had been focused on her sliver. it felt like she was nothing more then prey for an apex predator as it stalked from the shadows. As the memories faded and her consciousness returning back to the present time of reality, The image of the dark being faded and was replaced by the face of the blonde haired boy. Who had a small look of unease and confusion he features.

Realizing that, in her dazed state she must of been lying on the ground for a lengthily amount of time, while the other teen must of been standing there holding his hand out for just as long. Her checks now tinged red in embarrassment, she reached up and grasped her gloved hand and accepted gratefully. As the tall boy pulled her to her feet Ruby dusted herself of and introduced herself.

"Ugh, sorry you had to see that, I'm Ruby by the way!" She reached out and held out her palm, offering a handshake.

The other teen smiled and happily reached his hand out and grasped hers and shook it softly. "Hey, I'm Jaune. Short, sweet, rolls off the tongue, ladies love it."

AAAAANNNNDDDDDD THE BALL IS OFFICIALLY ROLLING! Thanks for the long wait guys. I didn't mean to keep you all on stand by for so long but writing is difficult to upload chapters for the site. I hope that this update meets standards. The chapter was originally meant to be longer but any files i've saved kept getting corrupted for some reason. All of that aside, I hope you guys have a great day/night wherever around the world you are! :)