*A few months later…*
Ruby would be walking in the halls of Irad's castle, heading to the throne room. Much has happened over the course of the months. Irad peacefully took over Remnant, taking control of all businesses and every nation. Advanced technology started to pour in like wildfire… Many people have even left Remnant altogether for the mega-capital city of the Ragadol world. It was dubbed, "The Great Migration Between Worlds''. Weiss and Irad announced their engagement to the others, and the wedding would be planned for a future date… Although Yang wouldn't let Weiss live it down as she kept teasing Weiss. Racism between Human and Faunus became non-existent, and laws were instituted by Irad to give the Faunus' full rights and protections; "The Ghira Decree" as it was dubbed, to honor the original purpose of the White Fang, and to honor Blake's Father, whom was the first leader of the White Fang. A large crackdown on crime also occurred, with all criminals being retried and punished respectively. Blake would move into an apartment on Ragadol with Aiden, and they would both get jobs, living happily together. Yang and Olmotack would grow close as time went by, Olmotack just waving it off as being close friends when asked, but Aiden knew better than that. He and Yang would later open a shop on Ragadol that primarily centered on motorcycles… This would really come as a surprise to Ruby. Her, Yang, and Summer caught up on lost times with each other, along with Qrow, Taiyang, and Raven when she was free from the job Irad had for her, to which Summer was very understanding, and appreciative Raven was making an effort.
And of course, Raven's arm grew back, thanks to Irad's technology. Yang and Raven seemed to have made up… But their relationship is still a bit strained, but they're working through it. Statues would be made in RWBY, ASSN, and JNPR's honor, and are displayed on Ragadol at New Beacon Academy, a recreation of the old Beacon Academy located at a different region of the large world. Ozpin occupies New Beacon as headmaster, leading a new generation of students, while Old Beacon would be made into a museum in memory of the old ways, and transferred elsewhere on Ragadol. Glynda would be his assistant, of course. Ironwood would be in prison for life for his crimes and aid of the demon who almost destroyed the entirety of Remnant, and would be marked as a traitor. Ozpin would receive a new body, although during the process, Jaune sneezed and almost broke Irad's concentration on transferring Ozpin's soul,
"Do you want him to meet Jesus early?!" Irad had exclaimed angrily, and Jaune would look down in guilt, with Pyrrha patting his back. The process would be successful though, and Oscar would have a clear mind from then on, and attend New Beacon. Life for everyone would be improving, and Ruby would smile as she looked out a window, down at Ragadol below. She would miss Remnant… But Ragadol has become everyone's new home, and she was happy about that. She would reach the giant doors that led to the throne room of Irad, the great Dragon-Fox Overlord. She opened the door, and her eyes widened.
Ruby grew excited and geeks at the whole room, "SO COOL!"
Ruby saw the stairway leading to the throne area. The steps were made of white marble, with railings on the sides, and a large red carpet that covered the middle section. She would climb the stairs, noting there were a lot. Ruby looked over the steps, and saw the large black abyss below. She must be in the biggest tower of the castle, she hypothesized. She looked to the walls which were far from her, and saw giant windows that had the overlord's emblem, with large crosses being bigger than the emblem. When Ruby reached the area of the throne, she saw Irad and Weiss.
"A little more to the left." Irad said, and the moving men would move his throne to the left, and Ruby would notice another matching throne to the right, and Weiss was happily sitting on it.
"A tad back to the right." Irad said, and they moved Irad's throne to the right a tad bit.
"Perfect!" Irad said, and would sit down, as the men left.
"Hey Ruby!" Weiss cheerfully said, settling into her new throne.
"Weiss!" Ruby runs up to hug her as Weiss hugs as well.
"Ah, Ruby! Just in time!" He states.
"That's a cool throne." Ruby states, looking at the matching gold throne.
Irad nods, "Yep! I figured I'd have this here and ready for when Weiss and I are married… Er- I may have these changed soon though. I never was a fan of gold…" He states, looking at his throne.
Weiss shrugs. "I don't know. Seems to fit us at the moment." She smugly said.
Ruby pouts. "Of course you would say that."
Irad chuckles, "Well alright. Anyways Ruby, uh, there's important business we wish to discuss with you." Irad says, as he would begin to pull up files from a tablet, and swipe up, making them into big screens behind Ruby. She would look up to see a map of Remnant, and a red blip.
"We've been getting dark signatures coming from the Evacuation Central Station on Remnant… It baffled us, but it could be remnants of the demon left behind…"
Ruby then gets serious. "You really think so?" She hoped it wasn't the case.
"I believe so… It is a pretty strong signature, but not as strong as when Nightmare was alive. I'm sending you and your mother to finish the job, and eradicate the darkness. It should be enough, with two silver-eyed warriors." Irad says, and Summer would come up from behind Ruby,
"BOO!" Summer said, joking around with her daughter and making Ruby jump and turn suddenly to her mother, who was laughing at Ruby's reaction.
Summer rubs her daughter's head. "Don't worry. We'll try to tidy things up in time for dinner." She said optimistically.
"Don't be so sure…" Irad states, "It could be the issue is in the Everafter… It could take a few days to complete if it IS in the Everafter."
Ruby was puzzled. "Ever… After?"
Summer was a bit more serious, "I thought such a place was a myth." No one has heard of such a place except only in stories.
Irad nods, "It does exist. I've read and seen it from the previous timeline… It was the place where RWBY really broke apart… That, and well… Was a point where I didn't like you all too much." Irad says, looking off with a dark look, but he would shake his head, "But we're in a better timeline now… So I won't worry. It lies below in the void of the Evacuation Center… I have reason to believe that Everafter may not be the same as you remember from those stories… So, I decided to give you two these… Weiss?" Irad looks to Weiss, and she would bring over two pouches. When Ruby and Summer opened them, they saw blue glowing dust vials.
"These are dust that has been altered by my magic. It's very powerful… But you have a finite amount, so use it wisely. It is especially effective against unholy beasts…"
Summer nods to him. "Thank you." All the while Ruby was looking at it carefully, in awe of its shine.
"One final thing… Beware of a being named "Curious Cat" if you see it. It is a culmination of chaos, and is very powerful. It holds no true form, but usually takes the form of a cat. Although, I fear the remnant may have already taken it." Irad says, looking down. "If you do see it, kill it immediately so the remnant does not possess it… If it hasn't already."
"Understood." Ruby says.
Irad sits back, "Ragadol and Remnant are depending on you, Ruby and Summer Rose. May God be with you- always… Weiss and I are going to be out as well, as we have another dark energy spike back at the tower. Weiss and I plan to defeat whatever is there, then tear the tower down. If you ever need to make a call, you can use these." A butler comes and hands them both the AWCD watches. "You can replace your Scrolls with these. These are much more advanced and better."
Summer checks on her watch. "How high-tech." She says in excitement.
Ruby gets giddy about this. "I'm actually having my first official mission with my mom! This can't be real! Ah!"
Irad smiles, "You can expect more missions with your mother… You two can visit Yang if you desire before you leave, she's at her auto shop in the main city… That reminds me… How are you and Taiyang, Mrs. Rose?" Irad asked Summer with a warm smile.
"Oh, we've had a lot of catching up. But he's just as delightful as the day I met him." She said with a lot of happiness.
Irad's smile grows wider, "That's wonderful! I will say, from here on you will be paid for your jobs. So expect a lot of money in your accounts on your successful return." Irad states, and he would then sit back on his throne, "Ok, a ship is prepared for you in the landing bay. Do stay safe, and may God be with you."
Summer nods, "And to you as well, sir!" Ruby and Summer would salute, as it was customary for subjects to salute to the Overlord. Irad would Salute back, and Summer and Rose would be off…
"Bye, Weiss! Wish me luck!" Ruby cheerfully says and waves as she leaves. Once the doors closed behind Summer and Ruby, after a moment, Weiss would ask,
"So… When do we leave for our mission?"
"In a couple hours… For now, I believe we should eat before we go."
"So what do you have in mind this time?" Weiss said with interest.
"We'll just get something to eat from our finest chefs in the castle." Irad says, rising from his throne and stretching. "We're having one of my favorites: Chicken Enchiladas with guacamole. A Mexican dish, sure, with some spice, but you may love it." Irad excitedly says, and Weiss was interested.
Ruby and Summer go onto the docking bay and go into their assigned ship at the docking bay of the castle, and leave. They set a course for Yang and Olmotack's shop. Soon they would land, and see Olmotack and Yang working on a bike.
"Hey, sis!" Ruby shouts out.
Yang turns to see her little sister. "S'up Ruby?" They hug. She also sees Summer walk in. "Hey Mom." She said with a smile. She still can't believe that she is with them now.
Olmotack, who is in a beater and jeans, whips the towel over his shoulder,
"Hey guys. What's up?" Olmotack asks, taking the corner and wiping his brow
Ruby would turn to him with excitement. "Mom and I are going on our first mission together!"
"Oh dang, already?" Yang said optimistically.
Olmotack smirks, "Well I do hope you two have fun. Where to?"
"The Ever After. You probably haven't heard of it." Summer replies.
Olmotack nods, "I believe father- er- Ozpin told me about it… Granite, it sounded like a fairytale… What's going on?"
Summer explains. "We believe something or someone is in there. Something dark is there, and we are gonna investigate."
Olmotack nods, "Should have known Nightmare would still have something in store in case of his death… If it IS him- that is… Either way, do be careful. I'll finish fixing the breaks on that bike later, Yang. We can watch that movie you've been begging me to take you to, in a bit." He said, taking a deep breath, then heaving a sigh, and going back to finish his work. Ruby would look to Yang, who was looking at Olmotack and could see she was… Well, it seems she likes him, that's for sure.
Ruby would walk up to Yang. "Well… We'll be going."
"Sis..." Yang can't help but be a bit worried. Since Summer disappeared a long time ago, she doesn't want it to happen again, let alone to her sister, "... Be careful, okay?"
The leader of Team RWBY would giggle a bit, "Yeah. I will. We'll be back before you know it."
Ruby and Summer wave as they go back onto their ship and lift off. Yang waved and would keep looking at the ship until it was gone… Yang stood there for a long moment, before saying,
"They'll be fine… Right?" Yang asked, and Olmotack would stop what he is doing, and comes to Yang's side,
"They'll be fine, Yang. Just have faith."
Yang would look down in sadness, "But… What if I lose them like how we lost mom?"
"You won't. They can take care of themselves… I'm sure Irad also knew they could handle it if he's just sending them." Olmotack said, rubbing Yang's back, and Yang would put her head into Olmotack's chest,
"I just don't want to lose my family for real this time…" She said, and Olmotack would embrace her,
"It will all be ok, Yang… I promise." He says, stroking her hair.
Yang would be defensive a bit over him touching her hair, but would just chuckle, "Y-Yeah… You're right… I should lighten up a bit..."
They'd remain like that for a moment in thought, before Olmotack announced, "Now then… I think it's time we close shop." Olmotack says, straightening his back, and grabbing his black jacket, "Yknow, my outfit before sucked in comparison to this… Boy am I glad I took your fashion advice..." Olmotack says, making Yang giggle, then look on with pride,
"Of course! I always was the best with fashion in my team."
"Hm… I always heard people say that it was Weiss who had the best fashion taste though…" Olmotack said, looking up and scratching his chin curiously.
Yang snorts, "Pfft! Of course they'd say that. Weiss always tryhard."
Olmotack shrugs, and he would get on his motorcycle. It was a chopper motorcycle that was black with a blue fade. The design was very advanced, and looked very sleek. Olmotack revved up his engine, as Yang got on her Bumblebee,
"How about a little competition? Last one to the movies has to pay for everything." Olmotack says.
She grins. "You're on." As she revs up her Bumblebee motorcycle.
They both drive off, laughing, heading towards the movies…
Back with Ruby and Summer, they would be driving in their ship. Soon they would reach the checkpoint to the teleport to Remnant. Once a machine verified their identities, they were allowed through. Soon they would find themselves flying over Atlas, as they had taken the teleporter to Atlas. Ruby would look below and see that everything seemed a bit emptier in the city than before…
"They were not kidding when they called it "The Great Migration Between Worlds."" Summer quipped.
"Yeah..." Ruby said, a bit intimidated. Although she stays strong in front of her mother.
Soon they would reach what appeared to be a large platform, with a man standing in attention. To his left was a large portal frame like any other. They would approach the man, and he would greet them,
"Summer Rose and Ruby Rose. The Overlord has instructed me to open the gateway to the Evacuation Central Location. The Overlord took the liberty of already preparing the way using the Spirit of Creation relic…" The man would fiddle with something on a pad behind him, and the portal would power on and open. A silver sheen outlined the portal.
"Do be safe, and good luck. The Overlord is counting on you both. May the good Lord be with you." The man said, stepping aside.
Summer nods to him in acknowledgement. Ruby would awkwardly nod to him too, not wanting to look rude. They would enter the portal, and they would see they were in a large space. Down the path they were on was a giant platform, with other paths leading to other places in Remnant.
Back outside, the man stood guard, and he'd see another man who was also suited like him. Once he approached, the man would sigh in relief,
"Finally… Ok just keep this portal open, and make sure no one gets in. Man, I've been yearning to catch up on my show…" He said, walking off. The other man would keep his eyes on the first man, and he would soon smile, then turning into Neo. She would look to the portal and narrow her eyes. She would then enter the portal. Back with Summer and Ruby, they were looking around.
"This is the Ever After?" Ruby looks in fascination.
"No… This appears to be the Central Location… Irad did say something about the Everafter being in a void though…" Summer and Ruby look down at the black abyss below.
Ruby looks a bit hesitant, "A-Are you sure we'll be ok? That… Looks like a big drop…"
Summer nervously laughs, "That is pretty dark. But no problem with eyes like us right?"
Summer and Ruby could feel a dark energy radiating from the void… And they knew that it was the way… The two would back away for a moment from the edge, and mentally prepare themselves… That is… Until Neo attacked Ruby.
Neo would jump and kick her to the face, having her roll over to her mother. Summer checks on her daughter, "Ruby!"
The sneaky assassin then falls back to the shadows, lurking around to strike Ruby. She knows Summer is too good for her, but she is not going to waste this chance at revenge. After what happened to Roman, she plans to kill Ruby in front of her mother.
Summer looks around, knowing Neo is hiding somewhere. Ruby gets up and grips on her weapon. "Where did she go?!"
"Ruby! Calm down!" Summer would ready her weapon as well.
The two look around, noticing a shadow rushing around. Just then, a shadow of Yang dashes towards them, with Summer baffled. "Yang?!"
"Mom, look out!" She pulls her out of the way, as 'Yang' turns into Tai. "Neo can turn into other people to trick us!"
Summer was baffled, "Really? That's a remarkable semblance." She admits, but is still cautious.
Just then, her umbrella blade is between both Ruby and Summer. Just then, Neo flips down and lands perfectly on the top. In confusion, both Huntresses look up to see her. Then Neo kicks both of them. Summer would recover, only to see two Ruby's. "Huh?!"
"Mom! That's Neo!" One of the Ruby's said.
"No Mom, it's me, Ruby!"
Summer was completely confused, "Oh dear… I can't tell you apart..."
Summer then had an idea to ask a question only the true Ruby would know…
"Ruby. Tell me when is your birthday!" Summer asks.
"October 31s-" "Halloween!" Both Ruby's say the answer in two different ways.
After some silence, Summer aims her gun at the one who said October 31st. "I remember exactly how Ruby would declare Halloween every time. You may look like Ruby, but you don't know her enough like I do!" She proudly declares, as she shoots, the fake Ruby gets hit a few times before running away. She would be stopped though, as a tendril wrapped around Neo's ankle. She would struggle, as she began to be pulled in by a dark force. Ruby and Summer would try to go in to save Neo, but it would be too late, and Neo would be dragged in.
Summer was worried about her. "What was..."
Ruby was a bit unsure to help her. Although with her mom there, she decides to ask. "What do we do?"
"Come on Ruby!" Summer jumps in. Although it surprised her at first, Ruby decides to follow.
They scream as they fall. They fall for a long time, and would soon black out. Ruby would be dazed, slowly waking up, and she would hear a small voice… A small mouse was over her face, trying to shake her awake.
"Wake up! They're coming!" The mouse said.
Ruby's eyes widened. "Eh...? EEEH?! A talking mouse?!"
"You need to hurry! The monsters are coming!" The mouse said, looking fearfully to her left.
Groaning could be heard, and there were zombie-like creatures approaching. Ruby would look and see her mother laying not too far from her.
She panics and rushes towards her mothers side. "Mom mom mom! We need to go now!"
Her mother wakes up groggily, but would soon see the approaching zombies. The mouse would climb up to Ruby's shoulder's, and they would start running. They quickly noticed the trees and foliage seemed dead, and the sky was cloudy and dreary; nothing like the fairytales.
Summer turns to see Ruby running behind her. "Ruby! Stay with me!" She reaches her hand to grab Ruby so she can lead.
Although Ruby would begin to run faster and even outpace the surprised Summer. "No Mom! Stay with me!" She would begin to lead as Summer would eventually smile to see Ruby leading her this time. Despite the darkness around then, Ruby seems to have not given up yet. And neither is Summer.
"That cabin!" The mouse pointed to a cabin nearby that they were approaching. They quickly head there. Summer slams the door, as both she and Ruby were out of breath. The mouse breathed a sigh of relief, her own heart was beating fast.
"What were those things?!" Ruby asks,
"Those were the zombies of Sloth… They are more common around here. Luckily- there were no brutes around…"
"What happened to Everafter? Everything looks so… Horrific."
The mouse looked down in sadness,
"I'm… Not too sure. I was taking a nap when everything happened… Next thing I know I wake up to distant screams and everyone is running from some sort of black goo. Whatever it touched, it warped into something more dead, as if bending to some sort of dark desire. Luckily I was able to go somewhere safe and hide out… Recently I just came out to forge… I don't even know my own name. The only thing I knew when I awakened was to run." She stated, deep in thought. The mouse would continue, "What are your names?" The small mouse asked.
Summer would start the introductions. "I'm Summer Rose. This is my daughter Ruby."
"Um… Hi." Ruby waves awkwardly. "Um… Ms. Mouse?"
"Oh- I don't have a name… Or- at least I don't really remember it…" The small mouse said, deep in thought.
Summer would approach it and pat it. "That's a shame. I suppose Little will work."
"Little? Why Little?" Ruby asks.
"Cause she is little?" Summer would exclaim in amusement.
The mouse would smile, "I like that name! Thank you!" She chirps happily. They would smile for the moment, before Summer asks,
"So… Do you know where the 'dark goo' originated from?"
"No… It seemed to have just come by somehow… I did hear from a few others that a figure had walked through the Everafter, bringing death and destruction in its wake… Some say it was a human, others say it was a demonic beast. Not many were able to live to tell…" Little said. "Although… It seems like the Great Tree could be the place where it resides at… But the problem is, is that it's blocked with a force field..."
Summer seems to know what's going on. "We were looking for something dark hiding here. It could be Nightmarack..." She said ominously.
"What's a… Nightmare attack? Is it something that attacks you in your dreams?" Little asked curiously.
Summer explains. "He's a very bad creature. A very-very bad one. We just fought him not too long ago. We thought we beat him… But if my fears are right… We might have not beaten him hard enough..."
Little seemed a bit shaken, "He doesn't sound to be really nice… He killed all my friends, and turned them into…" Little shudders.
Ruby frowns, but would pet the mouse's head, "Don't worry, we'll stop the monster, and make everything better!" Ruby started with a smile, which Little would smile too.
"I'll help you get through these lands… I want to help you stop that monster, and I've seen most of the places by now." Little offers with a determined look.
Summer warmly smiles. "Then lead the way."
Little smiles, then frowns, "Well… In order to break the barrier, we'll need to defeat the three lords of sin. The Lord of Greed: Gifre the Terrible, the Lord of Pride: Baysan the Beautiful, and the Lord of Wrath: Umbra the Hateful."
Ruby was a bit intimidated. "Oh… Those three don't sound… Too bad."
"Oh no, they've slaughtered and enslaved many of the creatures of Everafter, turning them into these slave monsters. They're incredibly strong, and they have their own lands."
Summer stays optimistic, "Well, we won't accomplish anything by doing nothing. Let's see these lords of sins."
They peek outside the door, seeing the zombies only roaming around. They will need to go to a higher point to get their bearings. They would use their semblances to sneak away at high speeds from danger, soon coming to a high elevation that seemed to overlook a valley below… When they saw the valley, Ruby and Summer looked in horror. Below were 3 locations: to the west was a giant factory with slaves hauling loads of gold coins, and big casinos alongside the factory, the southernmost location was a big castle, with figures floating in the sky, and there were spotlights lighting the sky, and to the east, was a city on fire. Everywhere else was a desolate wasteland.
Summer ponders. "Hm… Maybe we should go for a safer-looking area first..." She would look at the southern area with the castle.
Ruby would nod. "Yeah…" She agrees with her mothers idea.
They'd begin their trek, going through the forest that covered the region. They would plow through dark beings, and tirelessly trek through the prickly and dead forest.
(Theme: /g11CsNhIds8?si=qhnbLuDYb2zU4Gfa)
Ruby would look around, heartbroken that such a lovely place could be demolished and corrupted like this. She would occasionally see old habitats of the creatures destroyed, and the creatures that did reside seemed dark and twisted. The only birds that could be heard were crows, and they would caw at Summer and Ruby from their perches.
The girls would be nervous, but Summer would try to make light of this. "Who knows, one of them could be Qrow?"
This would have Ruby laugh a bit, "H-Hey Uncle Qrow..." The two then laughed a bit, and the crows cawed in response.
The little mouse raised a brow, "Is this "Uncle Qrow" good?" At this, the huntresses affirm, and would talk about him as they continue to walk together, until they are in front of the castle. Ruby looks up to see the floating figures on top of them. Summer would refocus Ruby on the castle as they enter cautiously.
They would hear laughter, as the floating creatures flew at them. They were all black from head to toe in black robes, and wore masks that were white with gold lacing, each with a facial expression of a smiling woman carved. The creatures would reach out with their hands at the two
"We're not gonna make it!" Little exclaimed.
"Mom!" Ruby gets worried.
"Come on!" Summer would grab her hand as they run, although they have their weapons ready, knowing they are gonna follow.
They ran across the bridge, and gold arrows would be shot at them, wherever the arrows hit, it started turning a small radius into gold. Summer and Ruby would see they were closing the gate to the castle, and Ruby and Summer knew they had to use their semblance together in order to speed through. Ruby starts as she holds onto her mothers hand and swirls into a blur as both of them speed even deeper into the castle.
They make it through the gate before it closes. They'd soon stop at a set of large wood doors, looking up at the large castle. Summer would push open the door, and they would be greeted by a bright entry room. Everything was shiny and made of white granite that was waxed. Gold lined many of the pillars, and there were portraits of a woman and her daughters all around, each being a different pose. There were also statues of the same women in different poses, some nearly naked.
Ruby was in awe of this place, but would show confusion once her mother covered her eyes before she could see the half naked statues. "Oooooh let's not waste too much time sweetie…" As she drags her off the room.
"Mom, I'm literally 18." She says with slight annoyance, as they went through the castle. They'd stop at a hall, where there were maids with the same white masks. Summer and Ruby would hide behind a large potted plant, before the maids saw them. The maids would look at where Ruby and Summer had last been, seeing nothing, and would slowly go back to continuing their work. Ruby and Summer knew they had to be stealthy.
Ruby looks around and leads her mother. "Hold on, Mom." She grabs her hand as they dash together to the shadows while the maids aren't watching until they reach the exit.
They went into another room which was a big room with a piano. They both catch a breath after trying to be really careful not to be spotted.
Summer pats her daughter on the back, "Nice one, Ruby!"
"Oh? I-It was nothing Mom." She would feel all kinds of overwhelming pride. As she laughs while rubbing her head with a grin, "I-I'm sure you would have done something if I didn't do it first."
Summer shakes her head. "The fact you quickly took action makes you an excellent leader."
The younger huntress would be speechless, "Mom I… I don't know what to say… Mo-"
"Oop! Let's go!" Summer quickly drags Ruby to another room, sensing a guard nearby.
The guard had silver armor with gold lacings, and had a mask that was angry. It would look around, then turn back. As Ruby and Summer crept through the castle, they would stumble into a room of mirrors.
They cautiously walk back, still having their eyes peeled for more guards, only to turn to the mirrors in startlement. Ruby looks around at the many mirrors of the room. "Whoa..."
Summer looks at Ruby with a smile. "Hm. I only see you as a little baby. But now that you're grown, you look a lot like me."
"Huh?" Ruby would look at the reflections carefully, "I mean… Dad did say I look like you..." She wasn't sure what else to say.
Summer only rubs her head and moves on. They move around the room of mirrors. "There has to be a quick way to the top…"
They would inspect everywhere, and Ruby would be looking at one mirror that looked different… Suddenly her reflection's eyes grew dark and reached out for Ruby from the mirror.
"Huh?" Ruby was freaked out, backed away in a panic. "Wh-What the..."
(Theme: /Dj3QkUU-ffw?si=xx95CofLrfJ-IZdC )
The reflection would grow sharp teeth, and Ruby's reflection on other mirrors would begin to pour out. Ruby and Summer would back into each other, as their reflections came to life, screaming and growing claws. Little's reflections would climb off the Ruby reflection's shoulders, hissing.
The two huntresses knew they had to run.
Summer grips her Sundred Rose weapon, ready. "Not exactly a fun house I wanted to be in." Recalling her fun times in a carnival. A place she would rather be in right now.
As Summer and Ruby were running, Ruby would accidentally bump a mirror, shattering it, and killing one of the reflections. Summer would see this.
"Ah!" Summer then turns her sickle into her guns and shoots the mirrors. The other reflections would hiss as they disappeared, and Ruby would catch on and join her. Slowly their numbers dwindled. Ruby expertly snipes them through their heads. "Like fish in a barrel!" She said with confidence. Summer giggles a bit, seeing Ruby this excited in a fight. It makes her try even harder to show her own firing skills. Soon there would be no more of the reflections, and they would be alone… Outside though, there was commotion, and maids and soldiers started to pour in. The maids had knives, and had glowing red eyes, and the soldiers held swords, and attacked them. Summer and Ruby would defend themselves, and Ruby came up with a plan,
"If you can't get through them…" She loads a vial of fire dust and aims at a wall, changing the firemode to "Heavy", "Carve a path!" She fires, creating a large explosion that makes a big hole, and knocking everyone back. Summer and Ruby would recover though and proceed through the castle. They went higher in the castle, using the stairs and killing foes that crossed their path. Demonic hounds were sent after them, but were easily dispatched.
In a room, a woman was putting on makeup, but not on her face, on her mask. A knock would be heard, and she would open the door,
"M'lady, it seems some unwanted female guests have been running amuck, causing havoc in the castle… Even destroying the royal mirror room." The servant said with a bow, and the woman would lower her lipstick she applied,
"Send the great hound after them… I will proceed and ensure their demise." The woman said, standing and dusting off her fine dress.
The servant bowed again, "As you wish, M'lady" The servant said, leaving. The woman would scoff,
"Impudence…" She states, as she storms out.
Ruby and Summer would proceed to keep fighting, until they reached a large garden that was high up in the castle. They looked around, seeing the beauty…
Ruby would feel a little at ease as she is about to walk there. "Um..." But Summer stops her, knowing something is fishy about this.
"Excuse me?" Summer cautiously calls out.
There would be no answer… The only sounds were the sounds of the plants in the castle garden, and the water that poured from the small waterfalls.
Ruby can hear them and is cautious, expecting something to attack them from all sides while Summer is focused on the thing in front of us. "Listen, we're here for the one in charge." They walk through the garden, as bugs fly by… In this dark world, they suppose this prideful being is hiding all the beauty here. Vanity… It made Summer disgusted. As Ruby walked, she thought about how Weiss was when she first met her… Pompous, sassy, and vain… But as she got to know her more, and Weiss opened up, she'd soon realize it wasn't her. Weiss was much better than what she originally thought… Ruby's thoughts were interrupted by a growling noise, as the ground shook. A large hound stood before them, baring teeth. Its fur was black, its eyes were red, and foam coated its mouth as it growled. It looked hungrily at the two huntresses.
The girls then focus on the hound, "What is that?" Ruby said in worry. Summer has a bad feeling. She slowly walks in front of Ruby to protect her, but also knows Ruby can coordinate a sneak attack from behind the hound.
The hound attacks the girls ferociously, trying to bite them. Both Huntresses jump back to avoid the hounds bite. The beast quickly keeps on jumping to bite Summer in particular. "Mom!" Ruby starts shooting at the Hound. The hound recoils a bit, but roars, spitting out biles of acidic spit at Ruby and Summer. Both jump out of the way, more scattered. "Ruby!" The Hound changed its focus on Ruby. She rushes in to attack The Hound, only to be smacked aside to a wall.
"MOM!" Ruby shouted. The Hound then tries to hit Ruby with its sharp claws. Which Ruby frantically dodges.
Ruby would land in a flower patch, and would roll away, as the monster slammed it paw down, squashing the plants. More destruction would occur as the fight progresses.
Ruby would try to use her Scythe to defend herself. But The Hound was showing more ferocity for her to handle. She quickly swirls back to get away from the beast.
Little would jump off Ruby's shoulder, standing tall against the beast,
"Stay away from my friends!" Little shouted,
"LITTLE, NO!" Shouted Ruby, reaching a hand out… But Ruby would be surprised to see the dog whimpering and cowering in fear of the small mouse.
"A RODENT!" A gardener who came to aid the hound said,
"ZEY LET IN A FILTHY RODENT!
"STAY AWAY!"
"CALL ZEE KNIGHTS! EET SHALL DESTROY OUR LADY'S PERFECTION!" Others began to say.
While they all panic, Summer quickly dispatches the gardener and the others. "Now's your chance Ruby!"
This jolts Ruby out of her confusion and grips her weapon to strike the terrified Hound. It would dodge, but is very much more clumsy knowing Little is in the area.
Little scurries about, avoiding the steps and clumsy knife throws of the gardeners and maids that came in to aid, but of course were also quickly dispatched.
Ruby would continue her fight with the Hound, doing better than before. She even daringly rushes towards the Hound, then slides under it, and uses Silver Eyes rays straight to the Hounds face as it roars out in anger. Ruby gets on her feet and notices the Hound is slowly getting weaker. Summer jumps in next to her daughter and knows they gotta finish this now.
Summer and Ruby combine their strength to dash towards the Hound and they unleash their best strikes at the dazed beast, as they begin to slash its body, little by little. Eventually Summer brings out a combination attack on the Hound. Slashing its chest wide open. The beast would then slouch down, the pain being too much for it, and completely stunned. Ruby would then dive in, and cut its head clean off. Black ooz spilled out, and the monster fell limp, dead. Ruby and Summer breathed heavy as they looked at their handy work. Little would go back onto Ruby's shoulder. Summer and Ruby knew they had to make a move on.
"Let's go!" Summer said.
"Hm!" Ruby nods in acknowledgement. And they make a break for it to the exit.
They go higher in the castle, clearing rooms full of knights and maids. Soon they would make it to what appeared to be a large throne room. Before the throne, a woman in white stood. She donned a long dress that touched the floor, and it had gold designs on it. She also donned a tiara, she turned around, and they could see she donned a mask as well, and this one looked the most beautiful from the rest. Her long black and silky hair seemed to sway on its own.
"How dare you filthy cows come into MY castle, wreck MY beautiful furniture, destroy MY mirror room, kill MY staff, and kill MY beloved hound!" She yells.
Summer would be baffled with how much she takes that much offense. "Well, we tried to be good guests. The hospitality isn't quite welcoming." She quipped, which made Ruby giggle.
She growls, "You even dared to bring a rodent in my presence… YOUR INSOLENCE SHALL NOT BE TOLERATED ANY LONGER! IT IS A CRIME ALONE FOR YOU TO LOOK SO HIDEOUS! BUT HAVE NO FEAR… FOR I WILL MAKE YOU PERFECT IN MY IMAGE! NOW… YOU. WILL. KNEEL!" The woman says, growing a pair of arm blades on both arms, and walking towards the girls threateningly.
(Battle Theme: /cu4CX7eBSeA?si=nHWNXHQ7yAFhn_gV)
Summer doesn't seem to take her seriously. "You sound like you have a serious anger issue."
She grits her teeth, "I AM THE LORD OF PRIDE! MY NAME IS BAYSAN! MY BEAUTY AND STRENGTH SHALL SURPASS THE LIKES OF YOURS… DAUGHTERS!" Two masked ladies in skin-tight clothing flip in acrobatically. They both donned masks as well. One had a mask with a smile, the other a frown.
"KILL THESE WRETCHED PESTS!" The mother states while pointing at Ruby and Summer, and they would all three go on the attack, the lord being aggressive with her attacks.
Summer would bring out her weapon along with Ruby. "Get ready." She shows little worry, as she is giving everything she got in this. The daughters would use their nimble bodies to dodge and weave effortlessly through attacks, and would punch and kick Ruby and Summer, while the lord would cut with her arm blades. Eventually, both girls would be in sync for their next move. Ruby speed blitzes one of them, kicks one of them upward, and Summer jumps and slashes downward, finishing her enemy. And they move on. Their teamwork makes them formidable against the numbers game. They'd notice the daughter they killed was but a mere puppet made of fabric and fluff… The mother grew enraged,
"I'LL MAKE YOU PAY FOR KILLING MY DAUGHTER!" She says as she grew faster with her attacks.
Summer would be a bit wide eyed on realizing that. Looking at the puppet, then the mother, then the puppet, then mother again. "Um… Sorry?" She cheekily said.
They dodge the incoming attack, this time Ruby swings her whole body around until she turns into a human buzzsaw and cuts open the other daughter, much to Summer's surprise
"Now that was amazing Ruby!"
She giggles. "Aw Mom!" She almost couldn't take the praise that she was completely distracted. Which prompts Summer to block an incoming attack by a maid. The Lord of Pride seethes in anger, knocking back Ruby as she had tried to block her, and would continue her barrage of attacks. Summer would attack her from behind then dash around the Lord of Pride to distract her with her guns.
Baysan would block a few shots, but one shot hit her directly in the face, sending her back. Summer would fist pump, glad she got a shot to the head…
The Lord of Pride screamed out in frustration, "How- DARE YOU!" She states, as her mask fell off, and she would turn her head. Her skin was white, and her hair began to turn into serpents,
"YOU'VE RUINED EVERYTHING!" She says, and her body began to transform,
"Mom!" Ruby yelled out as the castle began to quake. Maids and Knights floated up and started to encompass the Lord of Pride.
"I'LL KILL YOU… I'LL KILL BOTH OF YOU! AND I WILL DEVOUR YOUR SOULS!" Baysan said, and she would laugh insanely, her voice distorted to sound more demonic.
"NO ONE WAS ABLE TO EVER WITNESS MY TRUE FORM… BUT YOU HAVE PROVEN YOURSELVES TO BE MORE THAN I COULD HANDLE IN MY OTHER FORM! NOW WE ARE WHOLE… NOW… WE… ARE… LEGION…! NOW! DIE!" Baysan states, as many wings sprouted from the towering ball of bodies, and an ear piercing scream was made.
(Battle Theme: watch?v=kt6i_ph_dvE)
Both girls make a run for it to the outside for more free space against Legion. A shadowy masked figure, the same ones they saw coming in, would swoop at them, hissing as they leapt higher onto the castle, as the ceiling of the room they were in was destroyed.
"Mom!" Ruby panics seeing things going to hell.
"Just follow my lead!" Summer said with some excitement.
More figures would dart towards them, as Legion flew higher into the sky, glowing every so often with a yellowish color.
Ruby and Summer, as they run, start blasting as much ammo as they can to slow it down. "How do we stop that!"
"Working on it!" Summer shouted.
Ruby then noticed something with her keen eyesight. "Huh?" There seemed to be a core underneath all the bodies. "Mom! I think there's a core there! I'll try to snipe it!"
Summer smiles. "Wait a minute. I'll try to thin it out, just focus on sniping it!" She brings out her scythe and jumps in to slice as many bodies as she can.
The bodies would spew out stuffing, and fall off to the ground, becoming animated and crawling or walking, depending on the injuries, and the core would somewhat be exposed, but the gaps would slowly try to close itself. Ruby had to be careful with her shots. She stuck her Crescent Rose on Heavy mode, and decided to load in one of the dust vials Irad gave.
"Let's get cracking!" Ruby starts loading in the dust, and her Crescent Rose had a blue illumination. Every shot was devastating, making large holes on the beast, making a good opening.
"There!" She aims straight to the core and shoots right at it.
She screeches, as a large chunk falls off from her. The other pieces try to move to form a shield to cover the exposed part, but Summer would be right on it, killing more and creating more openings for Ruby. Ruby smirks, knowing she has this monster on the ropes. With Summer having her back all the way through. Soon a bunch of the wraith-like creatures would try to swarm Ruby, and one was going to slice her with an old sword. Summer quickly cocks her weapon, and shoots precisely at them before they would swing down.
"Thanks mom!" Ruby chirped, as she continued to blow holes into Legion, and Ruby finally got a clear shot and shot the core once more, dropping the rest of the bodies that protected the creature… The core of the creature screeched, tendrils shaking wildly. It would wildly shoot lasers from the tendrils, and they would avoid the blasts. Soon, it would charge at Ruby, hoping to kill her. She almost panicked, but focused more on one more shot. With no more bodies left, Ruby has a clear shot. And makes it just before the tentacles make contact with her. She blasts the core, and the lord would scream, and so did any other remaining creature created by the lord of beauty. Soon they would begin to glow white, and would dissolve into white particles… Ruby would land next to her mother, as they saw the scene. The castle was quiet, with only the wind blowing. Little would come out from her little hiding spot in Ruby's scarf,
"Is it over?" Little asked shakily.
Summer winks to the mouse. "I believe it is."
Ruby cheers. "Yeah!"
The clouds around the castle seemed to part, revealing some sunlight to shine down on them…
"Well... I guess that's one seal down." Little said.
Ruby and Summer look around to see the plant life return to the lands around the castle… They looked to the east and saw the factory.
"One down, two to go! Go team Rose!" Ruby cheerfully stated, still amped up by the exciting battle.
Summer giggles. "Team Rose. That's a good one!"
"Yay, Team Rose!" Little cheered. They all shared a smile, and a good laugh…
"So… Should we go to that large factory next?" Ruby pointed.
Summer ponders for a second. "It makes sense. Doesn't seem that hard compared to the castle."
Ruby thinks, "Well from the looks of the sheer size, it could be really big… And with those casinos nearby it…"
Summer now frowns. "Hm… You're right. I'm not sure if this place is right for you to enter."
Ruby sighs. "Mom. I already told you. I'm 18." They headed their way down the ruined castle, and would soon encounter a small train station, run by an old man that looked a bit creepy.
Ruby was not liking this. "Moooom, we should leave…"
Summer would assure her though. "Hold on. We should see if he is willing to help." She walks up to the old man. "Excuse me?"
The man looks at them, and spoke in a raspy, posh voice,
"Ah- I see… You must be the ones who killed the Lord of Pride… An impressive feat, indeed…" He said, striking his beard, and smiling, showing his rotted teeth.
"Right… Well, we saw that there seems to be a train here… And we wanted to-"
"Say no more, stranger… I will be more than happy to provide my services…" He says with a chuckle, "Of course, there is a price…" He says, holding his hand out.
Ruby grabs her mom's arm,thinking he is up to no good, but Summer ignores her. "And what would that be?"
"Hmmm… Well if you have any gold on ya, then that can be arranged… Otherwise… A vial of that glowing stuff in your satchel there will do. One vial from the both of you." The man said with a grin.
Summer hums in thought as she looks around her pockets, looking for gold. All she has is lien though. "Hm… I thought I found some gold on our way here…" She said cheekily.
Ruby would find her pockets empty, and she then remembered when the old man said they could give him one vial of the special dust from the both of them… Ruby counted her vials and found she had about 9 left, and they were pretty effective… She deduced that it could be fine if they spared one. Summer smiles, seeing Ruby being resourceful. Summer and Ruby would give the man one vial from their satchel of Irad's special dust, and the old man takes them and stores them in his coat pockets.
"The train leaves in five…" The old man states, putting on a hat and using his walking stick to get onto the train.
"Thank you." Summer bows to him as he and the still slightly less nervous Ruby follows.