Chapter 63: Soul's desire
"Wait, we're doing what now?" asked Yang, a confused look plastered on her face.
She, along with her companions from Beacon had been summoned on short notice, alongside the adults, as well as the supervisors from the Soul Society. In fact, the gathering was a much bigger gathering compared to the one following the initial Quincy attack on the Soul Society. It had taken a few of them, like Yang herself, a few hours to get back to the hideout. The latter had to wait for the Kurosaki siblings to take her to Urahara's store after she'd gotten lost in the city trying to find her way.
"A really troublesome, cumbersome, bothersome sibling rivalry where everyone participates save for the actual siblings themselves" yawned Lily, blinking her star pupiled eyes drowsily.
"In other words, a battle, or a contest to be more precise, that will decide the fate of the realms, and those within it" corrected Kyouka. She then gave a shorthand explanation about the events that transpired at the Soul King palace, including the universal agreement between the four.
"...It will not be something as simple as a combat tournament. It will be akin to a territorial war where each of the inhabitants will fight to defend and protect their territory from the other, with other objectives included as well. A war that will happen once every thousand years, between the four of us, led by us" she finished.
"I call it the Thousand Year Blood War. Get it? Blood, as in, the four of us are like siblings so we're of the same-" smiled Lily to herself, sleepily and proudly.
There was an audible groan from Kyouka, which by itself took several of the attending souls reapers by surprise. One didn't get to see one of the four gods react so vocally to something so humanly quirky.
"The god of the hollows, beings who are void of heart, mind or soul, is speaking in witty comebacks with poor taste…" sighed Mila-Rose in disbelief. "Sometimes I'm grateful we hollows dont have the culture to worship deities like you humans do. As they say, never meet your heroes…"
"Eh, really? I thought that was pretty good!" chirped Yang. "I'm not much for religion and god and what not, but this is one religion I can get behind. Where do I sign up?" she grinned. Lily looked all too excited, before her sister felt the need to interrupt them.
"Yes, yes, I'm sure even a toddler understands your wit, sister mine, but now is hardly the time for such frivolities, as amusing as they may be" Kyouka merely sighed.
"We can discuss the details shortly. The time for preparations, while short, is not scarce. Enough time, I assure you, to prepare for what is to come, and emerge victorious. I have a plan of attack that will make the most of those whom we have here. One that I intend to share with Kisuke Urahara and one other, alongside the captains of the Soul Society. Their help and resources will be vital for this world and Remnant's humanity for the next 1000 years"
"Wait…hold up just a minute. This is all just too sudden.." stated Blake, hard in thought. "You're telling us that we're all supposed to participate in this battle, and that if we don't, our homes and our entire race will be ruled by another for the next thousand years?!"
"I wouldn't say 'ruled'" corrected Lily. "More like 'under new management'"
"Isn't that the same thing, though?" asked Ren skeptically.
"And is that really any different from now?" asked Weiss. "After all, the Quincy still hold our cities captive. I don't see how this changes anything"
"True. Even before this 'contract', nothing stopped Yhwach from occupying almost all of Remnant and doing as he saw fit. What's different now?" asked Winter
"Because unlike this time, you cannot rely on us to protect your world. You will have no allies, for not even the gods will listen to your prayers. That will be the way as decreed by the Soul King himself. This war is there precisely to prevent that" stated Kyouka simply.
"It may sound bad, but…it's not sustainable for any of us four to completely eliminate the others. As you know, a cycle of souls and a rebirth of life and death is what keeps the four realms in place. Not even Yhwach would want to mess with that. I hope. I've known him a long time, but as with everything, things change. Of course, the other three realms will definitely end up living in his world, governed by his rules. If I'm not wrong, the humans already have a small taste of that, don't they?" asked Lily.
Kyoraku sighed from the other side of the screen. "When you both left in the middle of our little card game yesterday, I hardly thought this is the bomb that you would drop on us mortals"
"How quickly the winds have changed," said Nel. "Yet, even for us, 1000 years is no short amount of time"
"And we've seen first hand what being 'under new management' can be like" scoffed Sung-sun, remembering her time at Las Noches. "And I can't say I'm excited at the prospect of having another disagreeable thing decide how we get to live, especially for such an absurd amount of time. Knowing those detestable Quincy, I wouldn't be surprised if we were treated less than the sand beneath Hueco Mundo"
"You don't seem pleased about your time with Sos…Aizen, do you?" asked Kyouka, with an odd smile on her face. "I'm well aware. However, it is a bad habit of any life form with human-like cognizance to alienate the bad and ignore the good. While your time under Aizen was no doubt very different than when you were mere Adhuchas and Vasto Lorde, there is no denying that you DID grow stronger, form bonds that you would ordinarily have not formed had it not been for your time at Las Noches. And, even you can't deny everything that he did for the Arrancars, especially when you were looking for Ruby while she was lost in Hell. One could even say, atleast he let you live and prosper. A thought that I'm certain won't be shared by Yhwach"
"He killed almost half of our captains and lieutenants!" protested Nanao angrily from the other side of the screen which was projecting the denizens of the Soul Society. "I apologize for my disrespect while addressing one of the four great beings, but you can't possibly tell me something 'good' came out of it, now can you?"
"But….you know, I don't generally side with Kyou on a lot of matters and while I agree he's not the most agreeable sort out there" added Lily, earning her a skeptical stare from Kyouka that went 'Really now?'. "But, it is true that he didn't technically kill any of the captains. If anything, that was a result of captain Yamamoto's attacks backfiring. A lack of planning perhaps. And if that happened to me, I…wouldn't really blame anyone but myself for underestimating my opponent. I'm a hollow after all. The strongest survive, you know, that kind of a thing. You DID know about his abilities. And you had time to prepare for it. You even countered it the first time around. What happened, happened. I'd just leave it at that"
"But that only happened because of-!" protested Nanao, only to be cut off by her captain.
"Now now, let's not ponder over stuff that happened, especially when the subject of our talk isn't even here" suggested Kyoraku. "As you may have heard, or, see, captain Unohana has taken over as the new captain commander of the Gotei 13. And while there is no official position for the many of the other lieutenants and captains, we're hoping that will change soon"
Indeed, as was clearly evident, something was very different about the gentle ex-captain of the 4th squad. Her hair was let loose, and her expression was clearly a stark contrast from her normally warm one. While it was rather 'neutral', it still made the Espada, humans and denizens of Remnant alike shudder involuntarily. There was power in her gaze, one that shook all but the two divine beings themselves.
"Uwaah…..i'm feeling the chills from the hot looking mil-…" commented Nora, before Ren pinched her mouth together and prevented her from completing her sentence.
"It almost reminds me of the time that Ichi-nii was fighting in that hollow form of his against her" said Karin. "While all of us were struggling, she was pretty much the only one who could hold him off. Single handedly too, when all of us were struggling to do it as a big group"
"Well, she can be scary sometimes ahaha…" chuckled Yuzu nervously. "But I'm sure there's nothing to worry about, right?"
"No, if anything, all of us have always suspected there was something about the captain. Something that commanded such respect and fear. She WAS one of the original members of the Gotei 13 after all…" observed Rukia.
"My, that's a rather refreshing look you've decided to take on, captain commander" said Kisuke in a belied tone. "Might I ask what made you so motivated to take up such a mantle? I recall you telling me that you preferred to be our medic and away from battle"
"She is a rather crafty one. And hardly the person I once knew. A shame, in all honesty. I always wanted her to change for her own sake. And for her survival, back in those times. And now, I realize it was I who lost something irreplaceable. I wondered if she was in cahoots with either of you, Kisuke" remarked Unohana, but then shook her head. "However, I don't believe that to be the case. I simply no longer understand her. Perhaps only Ruby Rose or her own granddaughter do. It may even be her only anchor to sanity left in this world" answered Unohana.
She then looked directly at Yang, sending a small shiver down her spine. "I apologize. I suppose it is rude of me to not acknowledge the only TRUE anchor to humanity she has left. You are just as much her daughter as Ruby Rose is, aren't you, Yang Xiao Long? Atleast I can take some solace in the fact, that one of her daughters is under my watchful eyes. I will ensure you are given the best guidance possible to live up to your sister or your mother. Perhaps you might even reach her heart, better than I could"
While it did send an unnerving shiver down her spine, Yang still worked up the courage to face Unohana. "W-wait, you mean, mom…?!" stammered Yang, her eyes hungry for more information. "Was Ruby there too-"
"No. But the little one did pay us a visit as well, specifically to her closest friend. Natsuko…your mother Summer, took the distraction her granddaughter created while fighting Lieutenant Kusajishi, and paid me a visit. The details are unimportant. A bit of reminiscence, and some friendly 'banter'. But following her departure, I knew I would have to step up and take up a mantle I had given up. After all, the person I once made my promise to was no longer with me. And no one would ever understand her, in this world or the next" answered Unohana. "They both left just as quickly as they arrived"
Yang looked disappointed, her eyes hungry to know more. She could feel pangs of feeling smaller and smaller with each passing moment, as though the world continued to change and events continued to happen while she merely got left behind, like a speck of dust lost in the wind. Perhaps it was the fact that more and more people continued to reinforce the enigma that was Summer Rose, her own mother, and the one who had sowed that thought in her head in the first place, had been Ruby herself, who was just as alien to her as her mother was. Even before all these events, Summer's long absence from her childhood inevitably resulted in Yang feeling disconnected from her mother. And now, she wasn't sure herself if that person was her mother at all, or had been. It made her sick.
"I assume you didn't summon us all here just for that alone, right?" asked Glynda. "It seems rather wasteful to call us all, especially when you have several matters to take care of at your end"
"That's right. The main purpose of this…gathering, is one I most look forward to" said Kyouka with glee, looking at the gathering from Remnant. "It is time we began building foundations for the bridge between your level and those of your opponents. As you are now, you will never amount to anything, be it to your enemies, or for the rest of us. Atleast, not in the short time we have"
Weiss scowled at Kyouka "That's rather demeaning of you, isn't it? Sure, there's nothing we could do against those monsters, but isn't that why we've been taking the pain to strain our bodies and souls to the limits and overcome those odds?"
"And that's why it's time for some divine intervention" interjected Lily. "You see, humans are pretty darn amazing. They can become limitlessly strong. You can keep growing and growing unlike us soul-based races who need some form of sustenance to grow stronger. And we all have limits that can't be breached. But not humans. You're almost like….the stem cells of the Soul King. Not exactly, but close enough. You can become whatever you want with no real limit. A hollow was a regular human souls before becoming a hollow. So was a soul reaper. And that Togabito. And all human souls were, well, humans before becoming souls. But to counter that, you have limited lifespans. If not for that, you won't ever have an upper limit"
Amber's eyes rose in realization. "You're not suggesting..immortality or something like that, are you?"
"No, that won't cut it. While it's a solution in the long run, there won't be nearly enough time before the war is here, and no matter how much you grow, you won't be at a level where you can win. Besides…..immortality is…..why would I even want to suggest something so horrible?" she said, with a solemn look. "What we need is the explosive rate of growth a hybrid race has. A mix of both worlds, like the Arrancars, Vizards or other similar souls. Like Ruby or these three here" she said, pointing to the Kurosaki siblings.
"Us? Wait….aren't we human though? I mean, sure, our souls are…Soul reaper/Quincy but we still have human bodies right? So how..ahhh…" said Ichigo, raising his eyes in surprise. "Wait…you don't mean you're going to..?"
"You catch on quick, boya. It is but a simple task, with this" she said, showing a familiar looking glowing orb in her hand "I took the liberty to 'borrow' this from Sosuke, and it was all too easy, considering he's currently….unavailable. I thought I'd take it for a little spin. I can use this far better than he can" she proclaimed. Kyouka couldn't help but smirk internally when she could feel Aizen's amused mental jab from within.
"In essence, it is no different than the transformations of Orihime Inoue, Yasutora Sado and Tatsuki Arisawa. You are human, but your spiritual power is not. They are not inherently hollow, soul reapers or quincy, but their powers and souls are definitely based around those natures. Like Yasutora Sado's hollow based right and left arms and Tatsuki Arisawa's Soul Reaper based abilities. But as you can tell, clearly they are different. The former does not possess a hollow hole, and the latter does not possess a Zanpakuto. It is merely their essence that they are imbued with. But such a fusion has allowed them to retain the best of both worlds, limitless, explosive growth in one's abilities" explained Kyouka.
There was a small silence as everyone present took on the implications of what she insinuated.
"And? What are the risks?" asked Roman Torchwick. "There's no such thing as a cheat code after all. There's some sort of catch, isn't there? I rather like my Neo just as she is, thank you very much" he proclaimed, grabbing a slightly annoyed Neo in an overbearing manner, who also did not resist or try to get away.
"If you consider the fact that your soul will never truly be 'purely human' then yes, perhaps you could call that a 'catch'. You will likely never have a purely normal, mundane life. At times, you may end up getting dragged into conflicts you may not want to participate in. Or fundamentally, you may never come to terms with your own self, and may scorn what you have become. Of course, in my view, this is nothing compared to the evolutionary potential you will gain in return. Because the alternative is…that you either die, or your lack of strength simply leaves you with regrets. And…aren't you people from Remnant already 'special humans' to begin with?" she explained, looking at Orihime, Tatsuki and Chad. "However, all three of you turned out just fine, didnt you? Did you feel any pain or discomfort or side effects from when you received your abilities?"
The three of them shook their heads.
"If it's any solace, know that we're really not that comfortable with the idea of involving an external party in our affairs, especially Ruby-san's-" started Kyoraku, before Neo tugged on Kyouka's sleeve, promptly holding up a sign.
"I don't care about your war" it read. "Or these ignorant fools. If I listen to you, will that cursed Witch and that….that thing leave us be? That thing that called itself Yhwach?"
"That's impossible," stated Kisuke. "I'm still not sure about what he wanted with you uh…Neo, right? But I have to say you're extremely lucky you're here in a single piece after an encounter like that. Even the Espada couldn't do much against one of his elite soldiers. Yet you faced Yhwach himself and escaped with your life. However, let's just say that your chances of survival will definitely be a lot higher than if you just walk away now"
Neo groaned, but sighed, resolving herself to the inevitable choice, with Roman supporting her. "Fine. Let's just get it over with. Do your worst"
It did surprise the lot that the ice cream girl presented herself to one of the 4 great beings in such a haughty and arrogant manner. Ones like Nanao and Glynda didn't quite find themselves amused at the prospect, as well as Rukia. More so because of their reputation and 'code of conduct' than anything else. Kyouka however, didn't seem to take heed at all.
Kyouka wasted no time in placing her hand over Neo's shoulder. "Think about what you truly wish for"
She expected nothing more than a brief flash of light at most before something within Neo changed. However, Kyouka raised her eyes in surprise when she noticed her surroundings completely vanished. Gone were the people, the underground shelter, and even Neo herself.
She appeared to be in a child's bedroom of sorts, with a small bed, children's toys strewn about the room with many, many doors. It was a logically impossible room, given its size and the numerous doors that filled them. In fact, every time she turned her head, the doors looked different, with some appearing in places she knew she hadn't seen before, like an optical illusion tricking her eyes.
Doors in different shapes, sizes and designs. Some didn't even look like doors and more like alien objects blending in with the walls to form something akin to a door/gate. And by the floor, right next to some plushies and toys (many of which Kyouka noticed looked like replicas of some of the people on the outside) was a young girl around Crescent's age, wearing pigtails with brown hair and soft brown eyes. And clutched in her hand was a plushie of a girl with pink hair, pink eyes and long hair wearing the same kind of clothes that Neo wore, save for a locket in the shape of a small lock around her neck, as well as another plushie that resembled the visage of Roman Torchwick.
Her own appearance had changed as well. She now looked less divine and more….normal. While her facial features were the same, the plain clothes she wore, the way her hair was done in a normal bun made her no different akin to a mother peering down on her child, who grabbed her finger with her tiny hand, urging her to follow.
She was no stranger to illusions and delusions. It defined her, in a way, thanks to who she was. Even 'her current appearance', the one she portrayed to those on the outside, was the same. And yet, it was overlapped by this child's perception of her.
A small smile adorned her face.
Normally, she would hardly be one to be enticed by something as blatantly false as the scenery before her. And yet, she, one of the 4 great beings, couldn't help but be enticed by the fantastical mindscape of this girl's soul. Nothing seemed true. And yet, like an innocent child who knew only how to lay her own feelings bare, everything in front of Kyouka was a true portrayal of this girl's soul.
It puzzled her, which made her all the more lost in this little human girl's story.
They walked for what seemed like hours, the lack of time perception within the girl's mindscape further putting a smile on Kyouka's face. She now knew why her brother Yhwach had been interested enough to let her leave. Things that even she couldn't dream of. Things that she could only marvel in awe.
Indeed, she knew better than any, that the young are fascinating, creative creatures, knowing not the limits set on their minds by the cruel, adult world. Once an adult, one could never hope to attain such limitless outlook on one's life. It was a perspective that she herself could never hope to attain.
And then, she found herself amongst her peers, her sister giving her a curious, impatient look. She had no doubt noticed Kyouka's wide smile still etched on her face. Neo herself looked rather puzzled herself, clearly unaware of what had transpired.
"Well? Is it done?" asked Neo in her usual way, holding up a sign.
"Why don't you give it a swirl?" suggested Kyouka.
Neo raised her eyes, and flexed her mind as she always did, the action naturally flowing to her. However, surprise on would adorn her face as well as those entangled in the scenery that enveloped them, that was atleast a few hundred meters in diameter. They all noticed that their own appearances had changed ever so slightly, mostly with regards to their outfits, Neo included.
"Woah…" whistled Nora in awe.
"It's like a huge castle…" remarked Karin, looking around.
"The dresses are cute too…I remember I had something like this for my dollhouse when I was young" said Yuzu.
"Woah woah woah! Neo! You have a hole in your boo-...chest! I mean chest! Hole in your chest!"
Their eyes were drawn to her chest where they could indeed make out an eerily shaped familiar see-through hole right at the center of Neo's chest, just beside her heart.
And then, it was gone. Neo took pained breaths as she dropped to her knees, Roman supporting her. Their appearances came back to normal, including the hole in her chest.
"That was…almost like she'd become a hollow. That brat's spirit energy completely changed from a human's to a hollow's!" growled Grimmjow. "Even got herself a nice little upgrade in spirit energy. Though it's still pitiful compared to a Menos or an Arrancar"
"Almost hollow, you mean. Surely you didn't miss her own human spirit energy mixed in? And it's completely back to being human now. How fascinating" smiled Lily, observing the girl. "Welcome to the family, little lady" she said cheerfully, rubbing Neo's head "I can see why this one caught your interest, as well as our dear brother, Kyo"
"Wait, what the hell was that?! Did she just become hollow like.." questioned Ichigo.
"Repeating myself won't make things any clearer, so I simply showed it to you in action. As you can see, her spirit energy is back to being a human's. Not unlike your own when a Vizard removes one's hollowfication state. Except, she still retains her human body and self. And she was imbued with a 'hollow' attribute because deep down, that is what her soul resonated with the most. Therefore, it is impossible to tell how each one of you will respond. You would know that better than anyone else. Or not" said Kyouka, almost impatient. Her eyes were still at Neo, who still kept a wary distance from Kyouka. Yet, Neo seemed somewhat satisfied with how her body responded to her heightened abilities. Indeed, like Kyouka mentioned, it almost seemed like second nature to her.
"Of course, you'll still need to train to control and grow your new capabilities, no doubt" she added, her voice dripping with impatience. "Now, if the rest of you are ready, perhaps you would care to step forward? I cannot wait to see which path your souls will choose"
"Will it truly be alright, Ms. Rose?" asked Ozpin. "While it is true we were 'invited' by Salem to enter her domain, I cannot help but worry that this may have been a terrible idea. It was indeed my suggestion initially, I admit"
"I understand where you're coming from, prof" she answered nonchalantly. "But…I daresay that my mom and I know her better than anyone else. She did give you her word that you won't come to harm. I'm a bit worried about myself, yes. But…if push comes to shove, I should be able to break away regardless. Which also means it's better that it's just the two of us. I'm sure anyone else would've been uninvited. I say that, but even I don't know how merging with Salem has changed Galathea. This is a good way to find out. If something happens…..it will tell us that the Lord of Hell herself isn't one to uphold her convictions anymore, and trust me, that information is well worth the risk"
It didn't take them long before they reached the domain that once belonged to the God of Darkness, which was also Salem's initial place of residence. Ozpin for one, was very familiar with the place. It was a place of bad memories through and through. While Summer had been to Salem's abode once, before her eventful journey, those memories had not been amongst the ones that she had to live through, and therefore, she had no idea what she would be up against.
Their reactions of surprise were completely flipped around however, when Ruby found herself standing amongst familiar grounds while Ozpin struggled to comprehend the alien land he found himself in.
There were flowing pools and rivers of black, inky tar like substance. Ruby could feel the heat emanating from the land itself, a feeling that she was all too familiar with. From high atop floating islands and from hills and mountains in the far distance. The rocks and general geography had also changed, with a lot of brimstone mixed in with the gravity dust crystals present in the land, causing some of them to stay afloat, like remnants of an alien world. Ozpin was also curious about the dull green brimstone architecture that looked ancient but man-made, with many of them depicting murals and pagan inscriptions of different sorts. Many of the murals resembled the many different kind of hybrid Grimm he remembered seeing in the past couple of days.
The most prominent feature of them all however, was the brimstone castle of sorts floating in the center of the land, behind which was an enormous angelic looking statue of sorts that resembled Galathea/Salem's current appearance, with its bat like wings, curved horns, long flowing dress, and outstretched hands cupped together, pouring the same black inky substance down to the lands below.
"I doubt this place was like this before, but right now, it's bringing me some not-so-pleasant memories" remarked Ruby, continuing to walk forward. "I'm used to this heat, but how are you holding up, professor?"
"Rather fine, thank you Ms. Rose. My aura is keeping me safe, for the moment" he replied.
But in reality, it was a very uncomfortable sensation. He found himself struggling for breath, as though he was at the bottom of a humid ocean. It sapped his strength, and he was certain he could not fight to his full potential if it ever came to that. And yet, he could see that Ruby continued to walk on unabated, further elevating his opinion of her.
But even that was nothing compared to the droned out voices pin-cushioning his head. They were subtle, but they constantly itched every corner of his mind, like a rash that wouldn't go away. It made him wince uncomfortably, as though he was being subjected to static. No matter where he looked, the voices seemed to whisper and come from every direction. Ruby placed her hand on his shoulder, looking empathetically.
"Even I'm a bit prickly after not hearing this for a while now" she sighed "Maybe I've gotten too used to the peace. At one point this was normal for me. I simply learnt to shut them off from my head. You'll be fine, prof. Just focus on the road ahead" she advised, and Ozpin simply nodded and the two took off again.
Many of the swarming hybrid Grimm did catch their attention, but none of them seemed to pay them any heed. In fact, Ozpin did get the feeling their whole journey was almost a little too…uneventful. He'd spent centuries planning and strategizing, training many many generations of promising huntsmen until the day they finally confronted Salem. Yet, here they were, walking in nonchalant as though on vacation, just the two of them, albeit with some minor irritations.
Into the massive entryway, lit dimly by ever-burning torches that dyed the massive corridors and hallways in an ungodly orange-red glow they went. Their wary footsteps echoed throughout the hallow rooms and corridors that were once again, filled with old, gothic architecture of brimstone and murals drawn with thin traces of red. Yet not a single demon/Grimm/Hollow/Arrancar greeted them.
"You have arrived" came an eerie, but monotonous voice. The two sharply turned their heads, their bodies immediately assuming a fighting stance. Standing in front of them, almost nonchalant, was Salem inside the room to their left. She was seated in what looked like a seat that was fused with the wall, and numerous black, tar like tendrils covering the walls, floor and ceiling, along with ritualistic symbols inscribed all over all seemed to connect to her.
Ruby and Ozpin couldn't tell if the tendrils were coming from her, or if they originated elsewhere and she was connected to them. All in all, it was still a sight to see, atleast for Ozpin. He also never expected to just find her there, just like that. He even dared to call their encounter somewhat anticlimactic.
"You seem rather relaxed. Why do you look like that?" asked Ozpin, "Did we perhaps catch you at a bad time?" he said, a minor hint of apathy and alertness in his voice.
"I invited you, Ozma, and you alone. I do not recall extending that invitation to anyone else" replied Galathea, looking at Ruby. "She has no reason to receive my scrutiny for any sins, but she is still unwelcome. However, I realize you would prefer her company, would you not? To avoid needless frivolity, I shall formally extend that invitation. It is perhaps better this way, considering recent revelations"
"Rather generous of you, almost uncharacteristically so, if I may say. However, you still haven't answered me" pressed on the headmaster.
"It's a ritual of hers" answered Ruby. "Even in Hell, while she was torturing mom for millennia, she would…do the things that she did to mom to herself. Or so she would tell me..I mean mom. Sorry…sometimes I get confused with my memories and mom's"
"Hell is a dominion where all pain and suffering is shared, for you shall learn the depth of your sins by living through the eyes of another. And I, the arbiter of Hell, am no different. While I may be its ruler, I am hardly exempt from the laws that bind those beneath me. And therefore, as Hell's greatest sinner, I am merely facing the greatest retribution by taking on an equal share of the suffering of all souls, their cries, their torment, as if they were my own. And the same flows out from within me, to be inflicted on those that have sinned. That is the eternal cycle" said Salem. "What you see here, merely lets me experience that pain that flows throughout my dominion, and brings it back to me. However, that is hardly the matter of importance or relevance"
She then slowly stood up, the multitude of tendrils latching off of her one by one, until her face was uncovered. Her eyes were just as inhuman as before, as was her presence and aura. However, there was something human about how certain aspects of her posture and slight body movements indicated pain and weakness.
"Follow me" she simply said, and they walked through a myriad of different corridors and hallways, all of them lit dimly by a dull orange-red hue. More rooms and other…questionable looking spaces. What was strange was that the interior of the castle was definitely much larger than how it looked on the outside, so much so that it didn't make sense in terms of geometry and geographically.
Ruby could definitely feel a lot of familiar spiritual energies scattered throughout and she simply made sure to keep hers as hidden as possible. A confrontation with any of them was the last thing she needed.
Finally, they were at what appeared to be a massive looking throne room, where Salem/Galathea sat down.
No sooner had that happened, Ruby felt a pair of small, soft hands block out her vision, and a rather familiar feeling of weight on her back. She could even hear a soft voice in a familiar, alien tongue, which seemed to say:
"Guess who?"
A small, tired smile escaped her. "What mischief have you been upto all this time?"
In a moment faster than the eye could blink, she turned around, hugging the cloaked figure like a plushie, to the point that she nearly crashed into the wall. Crescent however, remained pensive, as though it was the most normal thing in the world. Yet her happiness was plain enough to see.
"Isn't that a nice, touching scene?" asked Summer's voice, seemingly out of thin air. Ozpin jumped back in surprise, startled both by her current appearance as well as the suddenness of her appearance. While Salem paid her no heed whatsoever.
"You were gone for sometime, Summer" stated Galathea. "I recall summoning you much sooner"
Summer merely returned a sly smirk. "Nothing you need to ruffle your feathers over, mistress. I wasn't doing anything that I wouldn't do normally as one of your underlings. I've already sent you all of the bad boys and girls that needed an immediate appointment with our lovely ruler of Hell. I swear I've been a good little girl. I just went out to play with one of my long-time friends. Two of them, actually. One of whom also happens to be family, in a….odd sort of way. And to spend some quality time with my granddaughter. How nice of you to call my daughter all the way here"
Galathea sighed. "Yes, I can see that. However, Ruby Rose's presence is a mere coincidence. Or perhaps it was fate. No matter, now that you are here Ozma, there is something you must know. And you as well, Ruby"
She then began telling them of her fated meeting with her siblings, the contract of ages that was signed by all four in the name of the Soul King, as well as the contest that would decide their fates, for better or worse.
"My sinful brother must surely be spreading news of this to his subjects as well, no doubt" she finished. She then shook her head. "No. It would be more accurate to say that this has simply given him all the 'justification' he needs before Father to carry out his ambitions. Even before all this, my forces and his have been at each other's throats in a vicious cycle. My undying children vs his own machina and soldiers. The only ones who really found death were those caught unawares, the innocent. So much death indeed….." she trailed off.
More than the bombshell revelations of the upcoming war that Salem/Galathea dropped, what surprised Ozpin more was how jaded he felt. He didn't exclaim so much about everything she told them all. Did he simply not care anymore? Was he simply spent and done? Or was it because he felt no bigger than an insect compared to actual gods and their progeny hell bent on waging war on his home? Just like with the brother gods millennia past and the raid on Beacon Academy was there really anything he could…they could do at all?
Salem seemed to have read his mind. "I empathize," she said. "And I truly mean that. With our emotions, our true selves laid bare to be judged in my domain, I know more than anyone how you feel, Ozma. While you are responsible for many sins, you are also equally responsible for many lives that have continued to flourish, because of you. And for that, you deserve reprise. And this war is not your responsibility. Even if this body and soul is forever tied to your own through wedlock, this war is a contract with my divine self. In other words, it has nothing to do with you. You may choose to involve yourself, but you may choose to take leave as well. I may bear the appearance of your betrothed, I share her soul, may even bear her sins, boons and vows, but I am not her. Ultimately, even your promise with the great creators of this world is void. That is the truth"
"The truth, you say?" questioned Ozpin, his words stiff but his tone calmer than his words implied. "Fancy words and prose will not deter me from my duties, Salem. My contract with the Gods of Darkness and Light to guide humanity down the right path is also one made with divinity. No matter who or what, I shall struggle to my dying breath, onward to the next life and the one after, until the gods deem otherwise. That is my fate. If that is all, then I shall excuse myself promptly. I don't believe either I or Ms Rose have anything more to discuss. Unless of course, you somehow have a change of mind regarding Ms Rose's daughter or granddaughter"
"You know, for someone who's lived that long, you can be really dense" sighed Summer, exasperated. "But forget it, it's not my place to say it" she shrugged "I suppose you'll realize it one day. Though, to be fair, you've had the chance to see it for a few millenia now. Even Raven wasn't this dense"
Ozpin continued to look at Summer with a questioning glance, but the latter merely continued to play possum. "This should be much easier to understand, no?"
Ruby and Crescent were seemingly completely lost in each other's company, which Ruby currently questioning her daughter about her recent antics and skirmish with Yachiru back at the Soul Society. The little hooded girl was hesitantly recounting her fight with her best friend, all while nonchalantly lying on Ruby's lap.
Ozpin and Summer could make out some pieces of their almost silent conversation.
"...Is that so? What did she say?"
"...You made up with her, right?.."
"I hope you didnt give big-sis any trouble.."
"...Really? That Starrk, Lily and Ulquiorra of all people? And she still called herself Lily? And she makes bad puns like grandpa and auntie Yang? I can't even imagine that…!.."
And it wasn't all sweet whispers either. There were times Ruby was even pulling Crescent by her ear with a stern look on her face as though chastising the girl, and the hooded would make a faux pout with fake tears on her child-like face.
Ozpin was…rather puzzled to say the least. Here he was, tearing his thoughts and brains out trying to come up with a way to resolve what was perhaps the biggest mess he's ever come across in his entire, endless life. Already he was running calculations, tactics, groups and parties to assemble and call, etc etc. And yet, the fierce cheetah Faunus that still left those that watched her on that night with averse expressions was disciplining her child. With a happy and content expression no less, as if the end of the world mattered less than the growing troubles of her daughter.
"It reminds me of the time we first met" he recounted. "I can see some of that childish innocence in her eyes, though it is no doubt permanently tainted. It does look a lot better after the two of you were ripped out of her, no doubt, as cathartic as that sounds. Even so, I suppose coming her was indeed worth it"
"I don't know about you, professor," said Ruby. Her attention and face still focused on Crescent who seemingly didn't care for anything else but her mother's company at the moment. Either she was truly ignorant of what was going on, or feigned ignorance because she just wanted to be with her mother. Either way, Ozpin couldn't tell. "I'll be honest with you. I'm not exactly excited to hear this, but it's definitely not for the same reasons that you have. I really don't want to fight. If there was a way for me to continue living and existing as part of the Quincy empire, just going to the academy as normal and performing duties as a huntsman, I would take it without hesitation"
"Ms .Rose, you do realize that your younger…sorry, older sister, your uncle, your step mother, your father, your foster siblings back at Earth and your friends too will be participating, yes? Surely even without my counsel you know that they will inevitably be dragged into conflict, whether you like it or not. And the Quincy are most certainly on opposing sides. Especially with your Arrancar friends. Yhwach has made no effort to conceal his disdain for your friends" he questioned.
"And that's a sin?" she asked, still stroking Crescent, and her eyes still focused downwards. "I don't expect the people I know to get along with each other. They aren't evil, you know. They're people too. And just like anyone else, they're free to hate me and my friends just because we're hollows, but that still doesn't make them evil. It's a different story when it comes to denizens of Hell, and even here, I would say my mom and Crescent are 100% exceptions. Even so, the Quincy are people just like others. They aren't truly evil, but nor are they guilt-free. But neither are the Soul Reapers or even some of us Hollows. They did do everything to make things better in Remnant after all. We're just people with different notions who can't agree with each other"
Ozpin hesitated. "That's…that's not what I…Ms. Rose, I'm well aware that's how war works. I've seen it time and time again, from the very moment humans existed in this planet. What I really want to know is, are you truly fine with what the Quincy's actions might do to your loved ones?"
"Of course not," replied Ruby in an uncaring voice. "I may not have any animosity towards them, but I will naturally defend myself and those I care about if they do pose a threat. But that still doesn't mean I have the willingness to fight"
"I realize you've seen your fair share of fighting, and I understand wanting to live a modest life. I've gone through those phases myself. But this is something that is on a scale unprecedented. Even if it pains us, we must take up responsibility to find a solution that satisfies-"
"Oh, shush now" Summer shook her head in disapproval. "When will it end, boya? It's just gonna be one thing after another with no real end. After this, what's there to say some planet-destroying alien won't invade Remnant or Earth and things suddenly go dook-dook again? You'll just as quickly call upon my cutie daughters, promising them that 'Oh but THIS will surely be the last time! I promise, cross my heart and hope to die!'. And what IS your solution, Ozzy-boy? You'd go against Yhwach and the people who helped your country? Or you'd go against the Soul Reapers and the Hollows, both of whom have done nothing to you? Or maybe you want to fight against Salem? I suppose that's the most logical option. But even Galathea isn't 'evil' you know. If it weren't for her, there wouldn't be anyone to make sure the real bad boys and girls are held accountable for their actions"
Ozpin opened his mouth to retort, but couldn't find anything to refute, and instead could only look away. Then, his eyes opened in surprise.
"Wait. You….you didn't! Both of you!" he said, looking at Summer, and then towards Ruby. "Do you…plan to take her place?! Is that why you both-?!"
"No" said Ruby firmly, rising up slowly. Crescent rubbed her eyes, disturbed by the sudden motion. "Of course not. You think I can just sit back while I let mom and Crescent babysit me?"
This time, it was Summer's turn to be surprised. "Eh? Sweetie, wait wait, this is the part where you're just supposed to silently agree to-"
"Of course not," replied Ruby with a frown. "You're right, professor. I do agree with the parts where you mentioned that Yang, Ichigo, Kari, Yuzu and the others will be dragged into this mess. I said I don't want to fight. I never said that I won't"
"Even if there is little you can do in your current state?" asked Galathea "You're just a regular Vasto Lorde now. True, your siblings, be it of blood or not, are momentarily weaker than you. As are your peers from this world. And yet, I'm certain that under the guidance of my sisters, they will grow beyond leaps and bounds. While you will continue to remain where you are. Left behind. For your mother and your daughter will continue to be my arbiters"
"It never stopped me before from reaching you" replied Ruby. "I was nothing more than a 'lowly Vasto Lorde' when I traversed through Hell. I'll think of something. Though it's nice of you to bother. You really have changed since the last time I saw you. I was certain I would come back to see Crescent and mom being in not-so-favorable conditions, but Crescent seems rather…never mind. You're right in that I'm in no condition to worry about everyone now, I don't have the power or mind for it. So I'll just leave mom to take care of Crescent and herself. And that you stay true to your word. As for the rest, I'll do what I can to help"
Her form was ever so slightly slouched over, as though she was taking support from a walking stick, despite being healthy. An action that he himself could fully relate to. Ozpin could see the wariness on her face. A face that appeared to be that of a young woman in her 20s and yet made her seem as though she were twice or thrice that age. It was as though he was looking at his own mirror image.
A painful sting passed through his body, his soul truly empathetic to see one of his own that he had promised to look over and protect to reach the same pathetic state of mind that he had.
Ruby let out a deep sigh. "Let's…make a move then, professor. If I stay any longer, I feel like I won't want to leave Crescent or Mom. Right now, I'm sure they can take care of things. We have other, more important things to prepare for"
She was already making her way out of Salem's throne room, while Ozpin was still hesitant.
"She's not a child, you know" added Summer. "I can't be looking after her all the time. Every child grows up and leaves their nest at some point. She knows what it means for this war. For most, it's very clear who are enemies and foes. But not for her, who has ties to almost every race that exists. No matter which side she picks, she'll have to fight someone she cares about. It's all a question of which side has the fewest friends. And I won't have any reservations about treating it the same way. Luckily enough, I have an excuse to ride on my insanity and inhuman morals. What about you, Ozzy-boy? Can you do the same?"
The enigmatic ex-huntress and her granddaughter then promptly left the room. Leaving Ozpin alone with Salem.
"My duties have not changed one bit. I shall still continue to judge those that have sinned, be it in the war field or not. I have no interest in holding ownership of any domain that is not my own. This war is simply a means for me to punish the Quincy for the crimes they have committed, as well as the Soul Reapers and the Hollows. Therefore the reason for my invitation today. To let you know of my decision and perspective of this war. And hope that you will take the most appropriate action that preserves the balance of this world, as was once desired by the great founding brother gods. In reality, we should be allies against our common enemies. However, as long as you do not hinder me from doing my duties, I have no animosity against you. As the brother gods' champion, and as my betrothed, I hope you will take the correct stance"
She then waved her hand. Ozpin could feel himself being enveloped in a strange light, following which the scenario around him changed, leaving him by Ruby's side right outside the massive realm.
With many revelations and thoughts, the duo began making their way back towards Beacon Academy.
"I believe we need to recon with Mr. Urahara" said Ozpin. "And find a way for us to freely traverse between the worlds. I shall start thinking of a way to handle the situation between our students here in Remnant under the Quincy as well as those few that are under Mr Urahara and the Soul Reapers. What will you do, Miss. Rose? Go and see your sisters and brother? Or will you continue to guide our students here?"
"..."
"Honestly, I'm…." she sighed again, "I still really don't want to be caught up in all this. I just wish things would just magically solve themselves and leave me be. But…I think I'll stay here for a bit more. I want to see how things go with the Quincy and our students and people here. For one, I would absolutely despise it if Dad and Raven here had to go against Uncle Qrow and Yang. I would never let that happen. I daresay Blake will want to know that her family in Menagerie is safe for example. Or Weiss and her family here"
"...you're right. My apologies , Ms. Rose. I admit I didn't think of those unpleasant possibilities. Perhaps I was unconsciously avoiding it myself…"
"It's fine. I'll just…I'll figure something out. Yeah…" she said, her voice trailing off in the distance. She was already beginning to feel very tired.
With another heavy sigh, she made her way back to Beacon. She was not looking forward to anything other than the comforting embrace of her dad, perhaps even one from Brunhilde and to sleep off her worries.
A/N: My most sincere apologies for the extended delay. There have been some personal and health issues I've been dealing with, and I still can't say that I'm in the right state. It's been difficult to do things, but I'm slowly trying to get back into the flow. I thank everyone for the massive support I've gotten. I will work on the story, even if I need a little time to do it. I realize this chapter is not the standard length and is a bit shorter, but I thought it would be good to pause here from a narrative point of view before I introduced further things in the next chapter. Thanks for reading again!