Next chapter: Final Ring
It looked upon Dib with a quiet patience. "So... did that clarify your answer a bit more?"
Dib blinked and found himself in a pleasantly lit room.
No answer. It sighed.
"Do you know why We asked you that question? You seem to have lived a life in a mostly altruistic and passionately protective stance of others around you, although you never had any real support, except from your friends. You have found a Love that many can never claim to have or keep. You have succeeded in life in more ways than one, and although you can claim to no real sins, the only things that can be considered sinful are trivial and not worthy of my examination."
Dib's eyes widened. No one has ever gave him any credit for these things, not really... at least, nothing of that magnitude and eminence.
"Thanks, I-" Dib started.
"I'm merely stating the facts, Mr. Membrane." Dib smiled, despite this statement. "Anyway, considering your philanthropic and humble deeds, you have been greatly honored with this chance. A chance to save your lover's life. I'm sure you will have no qualms about this answer."
Dib was speechless. He had never heard his entire life so bluntly stated in honest, honorable terseness. He wasn't chastised, and he was extremely relieved he wasnt going anywhere... unpleasant.
It seemed to read his thoughts. "We do not waste our time here, so as such, Judgment on trivial things, like many humans do on earth, do not concern us."
"Please make your decision." It concluded.
Dib pondered seriously on this, but he was still very confused. Everything he has seen and heard seemed to be meshed together, and although some light was shed, he didn't think he knew everything he needed to know.
"Is Zim going to die?" He asked suddenly.
"He... there's a very good chance within the next few weeks. They, like Us, don't seem to want to waste time."
"Can I save him?"
"There's a chance."
"There's always a chance... Is this our final ring?"
"What...?" It asked in confusion.
"Um, never mind..." He smiled knowingly.
"Then, I think I know what I need to do."
It sighed shortly. "There is one more thing... you need to know."
"...Yes?" Dib looked up and saw the shadowy figure amongst the light.
"If you do intend to save Zim, you must know that you will not survive. This is the only chance."
Dib winced and...
Swirls...