Arc III: Chaos Named
Chapter 28: Poets of the Fall
The ominous silence was abruptly shattered as the doors atop the stairs flew open, drawing the attention of the Nevermore upon the small windowsill near the basement's ceiling. A murder of the raven Grimm descended, fluttering and cawing for attention, but only the servant following behind paid them any as she focused on something else entirely.
And really, who could blame her? They would always be there until more spawned to replace those killed by nature or a wayward party of adventuring huntsmen. It was minuscule compared to the once fleeting excitement that returned full force, considering that the hour was nigh to begin reaping the benefits of her darkened harvest.
A sudden chill raced down her spine, a feeling she had not gotten since defeating Ozma's first and only attempt to storm the tower. Then known as Ostin, his humiliating defeat several centuries ago was her last victory over him that felt so accomplished. So meaningful.
So human.
And now Salem could do more than just turn the tide decisively in her favour. Perhaps she could even finish their war entirely.
My, my...she really did sound like Ozma, didn't she?
The Nevermore apparently agreed as they finally left them alone, flying back to the rafters to curiously watch. Pausing at the landing, Salem and Hazel silently appraised the ritual setup; the Trident gleamed maliciously from its stone atop the pool of the same, while the northern and southwestern torches still lacked their respective moon pearls. At least Cinder's successful acquisition rectified another third of the problem, but what mattered now was the opportunity to experiment after months' worth of research, all thanks to her own ingenuity and the grace of her portion of Power.
"Hazel, we shall begin initial preparations. Bring me the codex and my notes beside them," Salem intoned as she moved to the southeast torch. She stirred the Malice within, making it ripple as if it was mere water in a sink, but the longer time dragged on as she pored over the book, Salem didn't fail to notice his uncertain shuffling.
"Hmm? Whatever is the matter?"
"..."
"Do speak your mind, Hazel. I've made clear my stance on you keeping your thoughts to yourself before."
"My Queen," the large man eventually gruffed. "This...arrangement. For what purpose does it intend to fulfill?"
"It is to help me study the limits of my power and immortality."
"...I see."
Salem sighed and placed the book down, finding Hazel pensively looking at her. His reaction was not unexpected, considering her deliberate withholding of the reason behind her research and the odd tasks completed to support it. Not that she deviated from her efforts in sowing chaos, but it was best they didn't know what she truly meant to accomplish. Delegating was key, especially when half the group considered chaos their forte.
Especially Cinder. Her loyalty was fickle enough. The day she learns of the Triforce is the day she begins plotting her rebellion against the one true Queen.
"No, you do not," Salem said. "Firstly, let me allay your foremost concern. You will have your chance to strike at Ozma and avenge your sister. I promised you that once, and once is more than enough. This shall not impede that."
Hazel remained silent but perked up, a tinge of anger rimming his irises.
"Secondly, you all know of the artifacts I've sought and their wealth of knowledge regarding our forgotten history. What you see here is the culmination of all the work I've accomplished so far. If successful, the experiment may drastically tip the scales in our favour by enhancing what power I still have. Ozma shall stand less of a chance than he already does."
A hum. "I assume that the wraith and the power within your necklace will play a significant role as this is carried out, then."
"They do," she smirked, drawing a knife and making a small cut on her finger. The ichor-like blood dripped into the unlit torch before the wound slowly healed. "They always have, since the very, very beginning. But enough talking - nighttime is upon us and it is a spell that takes time to complete. Turn on the television and message Cinder to stand by; it shall begin soon."
Hazel nodded and turned on a small TV near her workbench, keeping the volume near-muted as the channel played out the live feed of the Vytal Festival's pre-show for the final match of the day. It really was a technological wonder to have millions of people around the world tune in at the same time, preparing to watch a spectacle that would raise their spirits by seeing the skills of their future protectors in action.
But while those two students entered the arena to compete for glory and the empty praise of the people, they would soon learn that the only true reward was making it through the night alive.
x==)======+
"Aura levels...check. Levels maximized."
"Structural integrity...check. Strength of epidermal and armoured layers at one hundred percent."
"Defensive systems...Floating Array, check. Targeting systems, check."
"...all checks complete. Model 374, designation: 'Polendina, Penny', is fully operational and cleared for combat operations."
As her systems repeated their preparatory inspections, Penny glanced at the hallway's distant entrance that led to the arena proper. But regardless of her body's advanced technology and how its processing power dwarfed some of the Atlesian military's highest performance supercomputers, it never came close to verbalizing the thoughts running through her brain.
Not the electrochemical impulses that relayed information to her internal databanks, but the decidedly human emotions that were amongst the most precious of gifts her father gave her.
Unfortunately, they were a far cry from the happiness and optimism she came to love. Penny wanted to deny that her systems worked perfectly when she saw Friend Yang incapacitate Mercury, causing her and Team RWBY to be shunned even though they were the kindest people she knew. Understanding the finer details of social interaction was a work in progress, but hearing the sentiments heaped upon them by fellow students, media and public alike was no kind feat.
Seeing Friend Yang so defeated when she came to visit made her wonder if that unpleasant feeling was what others referred to as "heartbreak".
Footsteps echoed behind and caused her to turn, and a genuine smile greeted its welcome origin.
"It is a delightful surprise to see you again, Friend Ruby!"
"Heh. Nice to see you too, Penny," Ruby chirped back, though even she could tell that something about her expression seemed amiss. "How about you? You prepared to go out and win this? Not that I want Beacon to lose or anything, but I mean - gah. You know. Are you...still feeling up for this?"
Penny chuckled a little at her trip up, thankfully helping to alleviate some of her earlier concern. "Yes, Friend Ruby. I am in perfect condition to fight for the glory of Atlas. That being said, I cannot say that I am not at least a little distracted...if I may be honest, I do not anticipate this fight as thoroughly as others."
Her smile fell and so did Ruby's, with the red reaper leaning against a wall. It didn't help that the passageway none-too-subtly amplified the distant roars of the excited crowds.
"Yeah, I feel you. Honestly, the last couple of days were pretty crummy for everyone. Again, thanks for visiting with CFVY yesterday - Yang really appreciated it - and she's doing okay for now, but...it really sucks hearing how everybody has it out for her and my team. That and how there was apparently an incursion coming from south of the city, but since Ironwood took them out, everybody's going back to hating on Yang. I can't blame her for wanting to stay back home."
Penny stilled. "Oh. Has Friend Yang already returned to Patch?"
Ruby snorted. "Well, no, she's chilling at our dorm, but it's since we're not in Patch, it's basically the closest thing we have. The safest as well."
"Good. I'm happy that she won't be leaving as this is her Festival as well. This is supposed to be a time for all the kingdoms to celebrate peace, unity and resilience against the Grimm, and while I do not fully understand the processes that drive the human spirit, do the people not see that fear and hate attract Grimm? Should they not try their best to focus on the Festival's purpose?"
"They should," she whispered, "especially since my sister didn't do anything wrong in the first place. Everyone's so caught up in what they think is real when it's not. I'm not saying this because I'm her sister, too - I mean, sure, maybe it's like fifty percent of it - but I still know her pretty well, and she's nothing like what everyone else says she is."
Penny nodded and offered a comforting smile. "I agree. Ever since we met in the alley, Friend Yang has always been kind. Relaxed. Empathetic. Strong. Resilient. I believe my description accurately summarizes her character, and what I know versus what I saw...simply does not correlate."
Ruby looked up at her with measured eyes before they fell and she leaned in for a hug that was wholeheartedly returned
"Thank you, Penny. That really means a lot. I wanna be strong for Yang and for my team. It's really refreshing to hear a friend cares when most people don't." She huffed. "I'm sorry. You know, I actually didn't mean to dump this on you as I came here to see you off before your match."
"Friend Yang is my friend as are you, Friend Ruby. My time here has given me much to think about, but the most important memories are the ones spent with friends. One thing I have learned in Beacon is you never abandon them in their time of need, even when the situation is exceedingly difficult. Even though my fight begins soon, I cannot stop thinking of the vitriol directed against your team."
Penny stepped away and gazed at the arena exit. "All I wanted was to learn what it meant to be human, and seeing firsthand the hatred people are capable of disheartens me. Why are people so...so capable of such atrocious behaviour?"
Ruby's face fell. "I'm sorry. Some people can just be really crabby. But honestly, Penny...you're probably one of the most human people I've ever met."
The look she received was equal parts surprised and uncertain.
"Sure, you have metal under your skin and electricity for blood, but you're ten times better at being a good person than all those other people that judge by what they think they saw. If they truly knew Yang, they'd be vouching for her too. Well, other than the people who piss her off and get punched in the face for it, but you know what I mean. They had it coming because they should've known better. If it helps, maybe think that since you're fighting Pyrrha that it's just a spar between friends?"
She shrugged and gave her a hopeful grin. "I know you don't get stage fright, but what usually works for me is I focus on the people I care about in the audience. We'll be watching too, so just...maybe tune out everyone else?"
The thought had some merit to be sure, but while it wouldn't do to handicap herself by ignoring auditory input, Penny understood what Ruby was saying. Peace, altruism - and seemingly with them, humanity - was lost beneath the cries that called for blood, a woefully ironic atmosphere that clashed with the original purpose of the event they fought in. Yet, she couldn't deny how even the smallest act of kindness somehow raised morale in a way that her internal systems found unable to verbalize, but her heart understood regardless.
True, the fight was something that no longer appealed to her as strongly, but seeing Ruby beforehand reminded her that she was created to protect others. To help others whenever they need it, be it her friends or strangers. Perhaps the audience needed a reminder that they still had the capacity for goodwill. If she and Pyrrha gave a good enough fight to remember - a distraction that may not change the world but remind them why they were here in the first place - it would be a victory greater than any one combatant could achieve.
After all, she was only human.
Her internal HUD flashed a one-minute warning to the start of the fight, though she ignored it to shoot a smile back at her friend.
"Thank you, Friend Ruby. It really puts things into perspective. I will remember them even as I fight."
"Aww, don't mention it," she giggled, sporting a light blush, though Penny did not miss the darkened suspicion that flashed across her face for half a second. "I have to be going too as I just remembered that I need to check something out...something weird I saw on the way here..."
Ruby shook her head and her enthusiasm returned, albeit. "But I'll be there! Not gonna miss it for the world. You'll be fighting for more than just winning out there, but I believe that you can do it."
Penny smiled a goodbye as Professors Oobleck and Port announced the start of the match, and as the voices grew louder the closer she came to the exit, she steeled herself for the mission that lay ahead. It called for more than just firepower to achieve true victory; versatility was key, even if the strategy required a shift not in tactics but of the heart.
Yet she stepped into the arena with a purpose in mind, and that alone was enough for Penny to accept that she was combat ready.
x==)======+
Sharp notes of clashing steel resonated across the expanse of the stadium, perfectly harmonizing with the cheers for each of the combatants down below. Even if the atmosphere hadn't fully recovered from the reactionary gloom from Yang's incident several days ago, for the first time in forever it felt like they were actually here to fight in the name of peace instead of tearing it apart at the seams.
The crowds especially enjoyed how Pyrrha defended against Penny's floating array of robotic swords, barely dodging a few that snuck past her guard, and how she backpedalled when Penny magnetically spun them to create a whirlwind of iron. When they were launched like a volley of javelins, Pyrrha closed in by hopping atop the bladed projectiles and finishing with a jump attack - a move that missed yet stirred the hearts of the crowd as Professor Port commended their flashy performances.
It was everything expected in the finals for an international tournament, but only Jaune could see the true battle waged below by the girl he loved.
The word still tasted foreign, even if it was clear as mud from the start. He still remembered walking with Pyrrha to their very first class, and though they arrived late, Jaune discovered just how pleasant it was to have her for company. Then there was the night of the docks, and rude interruption notwithstanding, spending time together revealed an emotional depth many of her fans were too shallow to see.
Yet, it didn't mean he was entirely blameless as only now Jaune realized that there might've been a reason for Pyrrha eyeing him when she thought he wasn't looking, be it in class or fresh out of their dorm's shower. On that note, he was also guilty as charged since something was alluring about how her emerald eyes twinkled with amusement, or how her voice was somehow rich, sultry and compassionate all at once. Thinking of her striking beauty never ceased to make him flush with indecent thoughts...not that he blamed himself for that. He still had needs, for Din's sake!
Such a mystery was best summarized as Pyrrha Nikos - one where only he knew the truth behind. What made him the happiest, however, was how comfortable they were with each other, to how they shared a surprising amount of interests like reading comics, listening to music together and playing games with their team -
And how they never wanted to let each other go, even when destiny fought to rip them apart.
So much was Jaune lost in his thoughts that he didn't even realize he spoke until Ren looked over and arched an eyebrow.
"Hmm? What did you say, Jaune?"
"I said that I love her," he sighed, fixing his gaze upon his partner with a hollow expression. "All this time I loved her without realizing because I was just too dense or made excuses about it, but I'm so happy she loves me back. Or, well, while I do...it feels so...heavy. I feel like finally realizing that just made things worse."
Ren remained silent as Jaune ran a hand through his hair. "Even though we've finally admitted where we stand now, it honestly feels like it was for nothing because of all this stupid Maiden destiny stuff. It should've never been her burden, especially when she's already been dealing with those kinds of things through me. I don't want to have a new partner next week, Ren. I...I don't want to let her go. I can't let her go."
For a short while, all that was heard between them was a faint, passing breeze mixed with the sounds of combat. Yet, those few seconds felt like an eternity in Jaune's heart when he realized that they too had run out of time; he pictured himself in Penny's place, and whereas Link trained his muscle memory while asleep, there was nothing like sparring with Pyrrha and watching her lose herself in the thrill of the fight.
But now, it felt like having front-row seats to one of her pre-Beacon tournaments as there was no missing the sheer dejection hidden behind her mask of concentration. Jaune gasped as she paid the price for distraction, with Penny rushing up and managing to kick her back, briefly disarming her in the ensuing struggle before Pyrrha warded her off and used her Semblance to retrieve her weapons.
"...I can't remember the last time I felt so angry, at least before Pyrrha told us earlier about the choices laid out for her," Ren eventually began. "Being part of Team JNPR is the closest thing to family I have, since I...since I lost my mother and father. Since Nora lost hers. But Jaune...I don't think you're doing Pyrrha any favours when you say all your time together was for nothing."
Ren ignored the way his team leader's fist clenched, anger rising and seeking to lash out at the slightest provocation. "You gave her a home in this team when she needed one the most. You saw Pyrrha for who she was when she needed to escape the image that everyone else chased her for. Most importantly...with all the secrets that you kept from us at the start, I don't think she would've stayed if you didn't give her reasons to care."
He continued to stare blankly ahead, but with each word resonating within, it soon became a difficult task.
"The happiest I've ever seen Pyrrha was whenever she spent time with you. Seeing you sweep Pyrrha off her feet at the dance was something I'll never forget...I'd like to assume she won't either."
Jaune fought to keep his eyes open when they became misted and blurry.
"Pyrrha's in a terrible position right now, but...I think that you've given her a significantly stronger reason to choose you over the Fall Maiden's powers. With all this in mind, let me ask you again, Jaune. Do you still think that the love you and Pyrrha have for each other is still so easily dismissed as wasted?"
Though the words were Ren's, his own voice began to repeat it the more he mulled the question in his head -
Could he dismiss all the time they spent training together, honing the skills they used to survive at Forever Fall or the Temple of Time?
"...no."
Could he dismiss the inane conversations they'd have over the smallest things, and just how snarky she could be when she really got into an argument - a side no one else had ever seen, or would ever have the privilege to?
"No. Never."
...could he dismiss how much he loved holding her hand and staying close to her, like that night with the fireworks upon the bridge?
Courage slowly flared as he shook his head to fervently deny such a thought.
And Jaune would never forget when they kissed for the first time under the setting sun. Sharing the truth of their feelings and finding safety when they were most vulnerable was a painful memory he was happy to remember. Deep down, he was glad to have fought through his nerves and taken the initiative; the regret, if he let her go without saying what they both needed to hear, would've been too agonizing to bear.
Jaune chuckled and wiped away a stray tear. "Thanks, man. You know, that's probably the most I've ever heard you speak in one go. At least in a while."
Ren huffed and subtly nodded as he sat back. "Don't get used to it."
"Yeah, Jauney, don't get used to it. Goes against his silent edgy ninja appeal," Nora cut in. She leaned across her partner and ignored the put-upon look Ren gave her, though her grin fell a little when she met his gaze.
"And I think you've read enough comics to know how important that is. Jauney, we love you and we love Pyrrha too. We don't want her to go either. But right now, I'm just happy you guys got the chance to say it out loud, ya know? I was kinda betting to see who'd say it first, but even though the future's uncertain, I really hope it all turns out so you guys can actually get together. You both one hundred percent deserve to be happy."
He couldn't help but smile. That was...that was really touching to hear. "Thanks, Nora. I really appreciate it. Considering everything I put her through over the past several weeks, I think a little happiness definitely isn't a lot to ask for. Knowing the lengths Pyr went to find it, I think she deserves it more than anything."
Ren nodded while Nora reached over and squeezed his arm in a gesture of solidarity. Hearing that the other half of his team supported not just a potential relationship, but also a commitment to help make their happiness a reality was nothing less than touching. Jaune leaned back in his chair and sighed, and while that sombre mellowness remained, he felt the beginnings of an old, familiar feeling swell in his heart. The heat of Courage upon the back of his hand went unnoticed the more he remembered happier times, to Pyrrha's smile and the longing to see it again in a future of their own making -
Jaune realized it was that feeling of spirit. The dark clouds of reality remained, but after mulling over his friends' words and the path that lay before them, petty protest became honest resolve.
After all, they met in the first place because of their desire to become huntsmen, the chosen few who fought to stem the tide of darkness. If there's one thing Jaune learned, he wasn't about to give her up without a fight.
Pyrrha evidently agreed as she expertly weaved through a fusillade of energy beams and closed in on Penny, delivering a powerful thrust that had the ginger-haired girl skidding back sans a significant chunk of Aura.
Hmm...
"Huh? Link? What's going on?"
...nothing. Just an old man lost in thought. One of which I would like to say, however.
Jaune's jaw clenched at the expected remark. "Do you not approve of me and Pyrrha? You yourself said she needed me -"
Your love for her reminds me of mine for my Goddess.
He whispered a mental apology.
There are times when duty and love are not always mutually exclusive. In my last days during the war, we both stared down the approaching darkness and promised to see each other again when it ended. We knew that our chances of survival were slim - the demon god and his forces broke our own, and it proved a last stand to buy Hylia time and send our people into the skies. But we fought long. We fought hard, and while we perished in the field, our victory was twofold; the people survived and we fulfilled our promise, even if Hylia cast aside her divinity to ensure reincarnation in the distant future. Since then, the demon god's curse kept us entwined to face it through time, but knowing she would be there gave me strength to fight on.
Courage flared, and Jaune was surprised at what felt like the ghost of a hand gently placed on his shoulder.
I cannot in good order have you abandon your duty, Jaune. But if in pursuit of it you desire to protect the one who claimed your heart, then fight for her. Your childish mind has turned to noble ambition - I warn you to never forget your purpose, but blessed be the one who knows of your destiny and stands with you regardless.
Jaune steeled his eyes and nodded.
"...thank you. I promise I won't let you down. I promise to not let Pyrrha down."
Link hummed and fell silent, but right before Jaune could ask him why he still sounded so wary, he nonetheless glanced over several seats down, finding Weiss standing up and stretching while Nora tried to assure her of...something.
Come to think of it, the seat between Weiss and Blake was still empty. It didn't take that long to go to the washroom and buy food after...right?
"...all I'm saying is that it does not make sense for Ruby to still be absent if a restroom break is all she left for," Weiss unknowingly agreed, narrowing her eyes and quickly glancing behind in case her partner was setting her up for a surprise prank.
"I'm sure she'll be fine! Ruby can take care of herself too, ya know?"
"I have my duties as her partner to ensure her wellbeing, even if the restrooms are not too far away. I shall return shortly."
Weiss began to make her way across the seats while studiously ignoring how Blake leaned over and made a remark to Nora that had her laughing. While he couldn't hear their conversation, it did little to allay the sudden concern in his heart; mentally running through a checklist of potential reasons why she'd be late, it only grew further as he realized that none of them held up in court, considering that Ruby had been gone for almost half an hour and her very claim to fame was a Semblance based on speed.
But he never got the chance to ask about it, for the moment he turned to Ren, Link's alarmed voice had him facing the arena instead, and his eyes widened at the sight of Penny's swords whipping back and literally strangling the poor girl.
Those of the crowds rose in alarm, but all he could do was silently gasp as the damage was already done. A horribly loud screech rang through the stadium as the wires that connected Floating Array to her body tore through -
And Penny Polendina collapsed into pieces, her mechanical veins sparking as the cries of the stadium faded to a terrified hush.
"..."
"..."
"P...Pyr...? What the...?"
"...her Semblance...did she lose...?" Ren muttered below his breath, and while his voice remained steady, the way his hands gripped the armrests betrayed his true thoughts. If anything, he was the picture of calm as the people around them began to shake off their frozen shock, voices rising in a crescendo of sorrow, confusion and anger; Jaune looked around worriedly, finding Ruby having returned and fallen to her knees while Weiss covered her mouth whilst beside her.
In the midst of it all, Pyrrha stood disturbingly still and unflinching even when the people's cries reached a distressing pitch, and before he knew it, Jaune was already halfway over the rails before a sudden screech from the intercoms assailed everyone's ears.
"This was not a tragedy."
Jaune's blood froze. That...that was definitely not Professors Port or Oobleck. But why did it sound so familiar...?
"Nor was it an accident," the voice continued, with the centre displays above the stage flashing red to display an image of a black chess queen. "This is what happens when you hand over your trust and your safety to men who claim to be our guardians - to Headmasters who claim they lead their academies to protect the people of their kingdoms. But here you see evidence of their corruption and their betrayal of the duty entrusted to them, going so far as to even produce synthetic soldiers that wear the face of the person they are not."
He felt his scroll buzz multiple times, but it was ignored in favour of the silent panic that gripped everybody to their seats - with more than just a few people already glancing at each other nervously.
"One must beg the question - what exactly is their hidden agenda? What do Ozpin and Ironwood actually intend to accomplish with false huntsmen and a cybernetic army brought to the shore of a foreign kingdom under the guise of security? Let me ask you this...are the people who you see as guardians truly there to protect you?"
In the distance, Pyrrha fell to her knees and gripped her head tight in a desperate attempt to block it all out.
"Most importantly, when the first shots are fired...who do you think you can trust?"
While the image of the queen piece remained, the telltale sound of the line disconnecting prompted a few seconds of silence before Amity Colosseum erupted.
The emergency broadcast system kicked in as General Ironwood's voice rang out, calling for order and calm, but it was ineffective as the warnings of an imminent Grimm invasion were too powerful to ignore. Civilians and students alike either scrambled atop each other to race for the exits or were too far stunned to even move an inch. Jaune noticed a few of his fellow team leaders try to rally their teams, but their voices were lost, mere whispers in a deafening mass of fear and panic. He even noticed one family huddling in their seats, the father embracing his wife and kids with the look of a man who was about to lose everything he loved.
Amidst the screams of the fleeing crowds, Jaune vaguely heard himself yell over it all to reach his team. As he tried to give orders, however, Nora yelled something back -
The urgency of which had them all following her finger pointed above.
Jaune's eyes widened, and he had the distinct feeling Link's did as well.
"What...? Why is the m-"
A giant Nevermore immediately obscured his vision of the nighttime sky, diving with impeccable speed and breaching the energy shields with a giant crash.
Regardless of how he questioned it breaching the kingdom's defences, it spurred him to action when he watched it beeline straight for Pyrrha, who watched it with the shock and guilt of someone who realized they just killed their friend.
x==)======+
Salem hummed in concentration, but it did nothing to stop the smile that slowly came over.
The language of the ancient Yiga Clan echoed throughout the basement, ominously reverberating off the walls with every word she spoke. Anyone else would've found it haunting, as even Hazel himself looked somewhat unnerved through the mask of calm he schooled his face to wear, but to her, it only fueled her certainty that all was proceeding according to plan.
It was exhilarating.
With the codex in one arm and another stretched over the moon pearl, the Malice around it ebbed and flowed in sync with the magic she infused it with. The darkened orb slowly began to glow as she chanted, enough to reflect the image of a monstrous sort of boar, before the Malice slowly washed over and fully covered the pearl.
"Hazel. The Trident."
He wordlessly complied, handing her the arcane weapon and stepping a good distance away. Salem followed suit, standing still for several seconds to immerse herself in that raw power - that raw, sentient hatred that matched hers for the Brother Gods, mixed with its overwhelming desire to see creation itself rent apart. The Triforce shone brightly within her necklace, and the more she focused on casting the spell, the more she felt her magic grow.
The Triforce of Power responded to her. The soul of the being bound to it relished her hate and her ambition to make reality the only fate she ever wanted.
It spoke, uttering words only her heart understood as it swore to lend her its power to see it all done, and that was enough for her.
Salem's eyes snapped open, and with the combination of her magic, the power of the Trident and that of the Triforce, an ominous red ring slowly materialized around her. Nine ancient characters surrounded her visage, a form of meditation once used by the Yiga themselves, but in this case, it was to channel the spell she was about to unleash.
And with a flourish and thrust, a powerful beam of energy exploded from the tip of the Trident into the Malice-covered moon pearl.
The basement was filled with blinding red light as a roar of churning hatred could be heard from even beyond the tower itself. Weaker individuals would have most likely gone deaf at the sheer sound of it all, and Salem swore she heard the screams of a man mixed in there somewhere -
A voice only she could hear - the voice of Power itself.
With the ritual complete, Salem lowered the Trident and watched the Malice spiral up and around the moon pearl, once dark but now blazing a hateful red and black. As she took a step towards it, however, her brow furrowed when it coalesced around it, and before long, a single eye of Malice stared back from within.
"...hmm. Is this how it was supposed to end...?"
Salem didn't have a chance to ponder as the moon pearl burst with red light once more. She watched in silence as the evil energy speared up and through the ceiling window into the skies outside, seemingly heading straight for that broken shell of a moon.
By the time it all subsided, she turned back to the eye within the moon pearl, ignoring how the air began to fill with the essence of Malice itself.
x==)======+
Cinder stepped out of the safehouse and breathed in the cool night air, savouring the relative silence and the crisp autumn chill that gently blew through the deserted neighbourhood. It was the last time anyone would be able to as the end of the night promised a wind filled with the acrid scent of smoke that rose from the flames of a burning kingdom.
It was the best kind of fire, a home for one who controlled such a primal element. Power, after all, could be quite fickle, easily lost as it was gained. But after several months of waiting and constructing the perfect opportunity to strike at the source of it all, the time had finally come for what was rightfully hers to return to its owner.
The dawn of reality proved too invigorating to break, and she didn't even bat an eyelid as Roman, Neo, Mercury and Emerald stepped out behind her.
"...so. That was a thing."
"It was," Emerald agreed with the master thief, turning to her with a not-so-subtle smile. "It was indeed beautiful. We're already getting reports of mass panic breaking out within the stadium, with more taking to the streets downtown. Everything's going according to plan."
For once, Cinder deigned to accept her praise, considering the truth of her success was all too satisfying to hear. "Yes, it is, Emerald. The first phase of our operation is beginning quite smoothly. Mercury, Torchwick. Send the signal to your men and to Taurus'. Detonate all the charges and begin releasing Grimm into the areas of interest. Our forces within the city shall prioritize the breaches near the walls and barracks for their troops and effectively immobilize their ability to respond, while Watts' virus will cripple Ironwood's fleet."
Mercury smirked and pulled out his scroll, and while Roman did the same, his hesitance did not go unnoticed.
"Hmm? Is there a problem?"
"I...well, no," he replied, while Neo continued to fix her with silent judgement. "It's just that...that's a lot of lives in the balance, you know? I may be Vale's greatest criminal mastermind, but -"
"- but you'll do exactly as I say," Cinder sneered, wheeling around to glare at the taller man, and as expected, it was the latter who flinched first. "It is far too late to salvage your conscience now, Roman. I care not for your time spent at Beacon nor what petty aspirations you think remain attainable after tonight because what matters now is your ability to do your job, and to do it well. Not only is your name already known to the authorities, have you considered that your involvement here damned you for the rest of your life across the kingdoms?"
Roman glared at the concrete, having no doubt already come to that conclusion long ago, but hearing that he had now crossed the threshold was apparently still hard for him to accept. It was ironic, given his original position, but Cinder supposed it was the remnants of his moral standards simply dying and being replaced by overwhelming guilt.
It was...pathetic, really, considering his talents and past accomplishments, and while she understood that terrorism wasn't exactly his original goal, he either fought to stay alive or was left behind in the dust, forever hunted by violence and regret.
Not that Cinder cared.
"I know."
"Do you? Then do your bloody job," she spat, narrowing her eyes and showing the barest tinge of flame. "You will send the signal. You and Neo shall take us to Beacon, then fight with us in order to sow chaos and to allow me access to what I need."
Roman held her gaze before a tugging at his arm had him finding Neo looking back with an inscrutable expression. Whatever method of communication they had, Cinder failed to understand, but it mattered little as their silent conversation seemingly gave him the strength to push on. He sent the text before throwing the scroll on the ground and crushing it beneath his boot.
Cinder nodded. "Very good. It wasn't that hard, was it?"
He merely sighed and ran a hand through his ridiculous orange hair. "Look, it's done, okay? We'll take you to Beacon, but all I ask is that you answer me this one question."
She raised an eyebrow, annoyed.
"What exactly do you want, Cinder? I don't mean from Beacon or whatever, but I mean...just, what do you want?"
What did she want...?
...what an odd question to ask.
It didn't stop her from quickly mulling her reasons over, however, of which the other half of the Fall Maiden's power topped the list. Cinder needed it whole because if not, she would not be adequately prepared to hunt the powers of the other Maidens, and she would not return to her Queen an abject failure.
She would not disappoint the only master who taught her the only kindness she ever knew in this world - that having the power to rise above all was the sole guarantor of security and vengeance.
"...I want for us to leave now," Cinder replied, nodding to the van behind her. "Time is of the essence and we must press our advantage while their response remains disorganized."
Roman stared at her for several seconds before he and Neo wordlessly walked around and climbed aboard. Mercury and Emerald followed after, the latter shooting her a supportive smile, but as the engine started up and the sounds of explosions echoed in the distance, Cinder took one last look at the safehouse that proved as useful as any other good pawn.
...for they were missing their final and most important member. After her, of course.
A hum and a snap of her fingers preceded the fireball she summoned and cast inside. The loud explosion illuminated the neighbourhood, and as the building burned, she spied the shadow moving within; the shadow that was her key to achieving victory.
Dark Link emerged from the depths, looking every bit a messenger of death and despair. Yet beneath the scarf that hid his face, the rusted armour upon which was engraved an eye of truth, and the green tunic that had seen better days, the shade was not just unmarred - he was completely subservient to her will.
And when he carried his Hylian Shield and flameblade into battle alongside the magic of the Fall Maiden, the world would finally know what it meant to wield true power.
x==)======+
"...the northern garrison is under siege! A horde of Grimm have breached the wall by Forever Fall!"
"...this is Lancer 3-2, contact - platoon size element of White Fang insurgents with small arms assaulting factory at grid 107537. Currently engaging and requesting reinforcements -"
"...there! Quick, move the camera - my word, what...what is that!? Is...is that even Grimm? It has a spear and looks like a centaur -"
"- this is Lisa Lavender, live with Vale's breaking news in our studio, and we're receiving multiple unconfirmed reports of explosions and unknown Grimm running rampant through the streets -"
"- s-someone, please send help! We're, um, at the train station south of the docks and there's Grimm and something else that's trying to - oh gods. They found us. Please, someone help us! I-I don't wanna die!"
Ozpin's jaw clenched and muted the rest of the feed from his terminal as his call to the Council finally patched through.
"...look, I'll make this quick," the wary face of Vice-President Ashei began, and he noted more than half the councillors either injured, in various states of distress or simply not present. "Our security was overwhelmed at the council hall and we lost contact with Dotour and his detail. What forces we have around are fighting to regain control, but until he is found, I am assuming responsibility as the acting Council President, and Moltroc Winchester, acting Vice-President. Vale is now under a state of emergency and initiating continuity of government."
He sat back in his seat and nodded along with the few present, and amongst those, the few who physically could.
"We're also receiving reports from the other kingdoms as they too are under attack, so I will assign the acting Vice-President to formulate our international response. While we have many questions for later, this is the time when we need you the most, Ozpin. Get to it, yeah? Work with General Ironwood and get us out of this mess."
"I will. Rest assured that Beacon and Vale will not fall tonight. We shall prevail," Ozpin replied before he shut the terminal off. It proved perfect timing as the elevator dinged open to reveal Glynda, Qrow and several of the other staff, while General Ironwood called in from his flagship near the Colosseum.
"Oz! There you are. Are Ruby and Yang -"
"Good, you're all here. That saves me the trouble," Ozpin interrupted Qrow, standing behind and placing his knuckles upon the desk. "My friends, Vale is under attack. Grimm of known and unknown make have begun running rampant through the streets, pouring through breaches in the walls, assaulting Amity Colosseum -"
A powerful rumble shook them all, followed by the muffled roars of the creatures of darkness.
"- and besieging the Academy. Glynda, you and Qrow shall head down to Vale and lead our forces within the city. James, you brought your army to my city. Use it. Work your way down from the Colosseum and secure our airspace. Peach, consolidate our staff and see to the defence of the campus and fairgrounds. I shall coordinate all from my office here. Does anyone have any questions?"
The teachers looked amongst each other, though nary a word was said.
"Then go. Protect our students. Save our people."
They immediately broke ranks and headed straight for the elevator, but as the numbers dwindled down to just him and his most trusted, Ozpin called out to have a word in private.
"I assume you all know exactly why I asked for this moment."
"Is Amber safe, Ozpin?"
"I shall personally ensure she is, considering the chaos to be the prime opportunity for her assailants to slip through," he replied to Ironwood. "Do inform Leonardo and Mrs Auburn as well. I now see Salem's endgame, and it is a terrible one indeed. Not since centuries ago, when I led an army to besiege her tower has she responded with destruction on so large a scale."
"Go big or go home, eh?"
"Hmm. Quite," Ozpin sighed as Qrow took a swig of liquor. He contemplated asking for a drink himself, though he forced that thought away as he downed most of his coffee. "The time has come for us to respond decisively. James, when this is all over, I demand an explanation as to the nature of Ms Polendina, but for now...please ensure the safety of our students. Qrow...find your nieces and their friends. Find Ruby. Find Yang and Jaune. Bring them home."
The grizzled huntsman didn't reply, walking instead to the open window before flying off in bird form towards the city. Ironwood gave a quick farewell before disconnecting, and eventually, Ozpin's gaze fell as his stress rose, incited by the present and the nine thousand years of war behind it.
"We shall succeed in this fight, Ozpin."
"I know," he sighed, with Glynda's stern visage a bastion of strength that reminded him of his own. "Loss and sacrifice, while necessary, are no more desirable, and there will be much of both tonight. This could not have come at a worse time. My suspicions are coming close to being realized, Glynda. Before all this, I read an excerpt from the Book of Mudora - one that I studied in depth when Mr Arc returned it. It spoke of an evil that is fated to rise throughout history, and has always been sealed by a timeless hero."
"...and you believe this attack to be the fulfillment of such a fate?"
"Most likely. The legends are true, but we discovered and acted upon this confirmation too late. Glynda, Jaune Arc is the next iteration of these reincarnating heroes, and I fear that Salem intends to unleash an evil that she does not understand, much less control it. Coordinate with Qrow. Whatever happens, he must survive at all costs."
His deputy solemnly nodded.
"Oh, and this should go without saying, but should I fall in the line of duty -"
"- believe it or not, I have never envied your position," Glynda interrupted, and her unwavering expression cracked the tiniest bit. "Even when we attended Beacon as students, before I knew of your past, I was more than happy to have you as team leader. I accept it solely on the basis that if you did fall in the end, that I would see my chi - my students survive."
The momentary lapse disappeared and was replaced by an iron gaze that had even him sitting back anxiously. "However, this is one moment where I have an order for you. Protect Amber if you must, but do not throw away your life and the body of your host so carelessly. There is no guarantee for your reincarnation to be thirty days or thirty decades after you die."
Ozpin met her stare and eventually chuckled, deferring to her advice. "Very well, Glynda. That much I do promise. And not just as your Headmaster, but as your friend and old team leader...stay safe out there."
She nodded stiffly and made for the elevator, and before long, the only sounds that remained were the distant roars, gunfire and explosions, dotted with the occasional cry that sounded a little too painful to indicate any good.
When he reached for his coffee, however, Ozpin froze and immediately narrowed his eyes. His coffee mug...was not a pinkish red. Nor was his desk, the floor, or the ceiling -
Ozpin closed his eyes and sighed as his fears were fully realized.
He gently grabbed his cane and stood by the window behind him in a manner that he always took when gazing out to the campus and beyond. The view of the land never ceased to inspire him, reminding him of what he fought to protect and the hope that burned a light against the ever-rising tide of darkness -
And for the first time, he felt neither inspiration nor relaxation. Only melancholic acceptance.
Part of it might've had to do with the flakes of Malice that slowly materialized and drifted through the air, or how the city was choked with the smoke of fire and shadow alike. Hovering just beyond the city limits, Amity Colosseum was a torrent of violence as Ironwood's forces fought off aerial Grimm and monsters whilst doing their best to evacuate students and civilians to the surface. He acknowledged the wreckage of one or two transport ships burning below, along with a tanker in the Great Sea that sunk beneath a swarm of large bulbous creatures with spiny undersides.
"...chaos isn't a pit. Chaos is a ladder. Humanity climbs, but we have found ourselves falling into the pit of fear and despair."
Ozpin gripped his cane tight as he remembered his words, knowing it would take all their strength to prevent Salem's invasion from turning into a massacre. There would be no valour, only sacrifice here in Vale or Mistral or anywhere on Remnant for that matter.
The price to pay was steep, and above it all, the moon glowed red as the blood that would be spilt to pay it.
- AN -
And so it begins.
…but before the AN itself, a quick meta reminder that work is getting busier over the next several weeks, potentially past the new year as well. Nothing warranting delays for now, and as always, updates will be posted on my profile.
Anywho. We've now reached the beginning of the end, and a fair reminder that it'll be darker than how the fall was portrayed in canon. After all, in the words of Neo's voice actor, Remnant is a world of bloody evolution. Even then, it's honestly exciting to look at the story outline and see how it all pans out after. Half my motivation these days comes from mulling over ideas jotted down for Arc IV / V / VI, like how I can include certain items, or how best to depict certain characters and loc –
Ahem. Right. Spoilers.
In any case, thank you all for sticking around for not just another chapter, but also for reaching 300 favs / 400 follows! I'm really happy to know that you guys are enjoying it so far, and it really inspires me more in making the ending one big banger for you all (and that's not a hidden message, just me wanting to write something you'll love…or hate in a good way, lol). Again, your thoughts, constructive criticism and feedback are always welcome and appreciated.
Hope to see you all next chapter!
Fyr RedNight: Thank you, glad to know you enjoyed it! The heavy atmosphere is here to stay for the rest of Arc III and beyond, as what happens soon will impact their thoughts and actions for the rest of the story.
Faightan Gaims: Yes, Pyrrha. You must be willing to face whatever consequences lay at the end of either path, but the ball is in your court. And fourth quarter is almost over.
Boshwa: Thank you! I'm happy to know you loved it. I can't wait to fully reveal Salem's true motives to the cast, but I'll content myself for now by hinting the possibilities. It'll be all the more interesting when she realizes just what true power is capable of.
SentinalSlice: Don't worry! All the classic TP Hidden Skills shall return, amongst others. It'll only make things more interesting when Jaune and Dark Link meet; the First Hero's guidance and his training should naturally provide Jaune an edge over Dark Link…right?
The Legend of Zelda and RWBY are the respective properties of Nintendo and Rooster Teeth.