Disclaimer: Don't own either Rwby or Type Moon. So enjoy or don't
Chapter 59: Exorcism Briefing
Ironwood's tone was resolute as he commenced the briefing. "Tomorrow, we undertake a unique and vital mission: the exorcism of Jacques Schnee." His declaration hung palpably in the air, eliciting exchanged glances and muted murmurs of astonishment. "This is not merely about Jacques himself; it concerns mitigating the broader danger his condition poses—to his family, and to the stability of Atlas and Mantle."
Nora's hand shot up impulsively. "Uh, question! If this is some kind of personal ritual, why do you need us?"
Shirou stepped forward with a composed demeanor. "Good question. While the exorcism itself is a ritual I'll perform, it necessitates a safeguarded environment. Your role will be to ensure that no one disrupts the process and to defend against potential Grimm incursions."
Jaune frowned thoughtfully. "Why not conduct it here in Atlas? Isn't it safer?"
Shirou shook his head. "The success of the ritual hinges on Mantle's proximity to a significant leyline. Leylines are natural channels of energy that amplify certain kinds of magic. Atlas, being suspended far above the ground, lacks the requisite connection."
Clover raised an eyebrow skeptically. "Leylines? As in magical energy running through the earth? Sounds like something out of a bedtime story."
Shirou allowed himself a faint smile. "Considering what you've witnessed me do already, leylines shouldn't be much of a stretch." His lighthearted retort drew a chuckle from Ruby, dissipating some of the room's tension.
Ironwood stepped in to reinforce the seriousness of the situation. "This mission isn't just about Jacques; it's about understanding and combating the forces at work behind the scenes. Mantle's recent disturbances have left its people vulnerable, and any sign of chaos will invite further Grimm attacks. Our presence isn't just practical—it's essential to safeguarding the ritual and those who live there."
Winter added, her voice calm but firm, "This is an all-hands operation. Everyone here plays a critical role. Team cohesion and vigilance will be paramount."
"You've been thoroughly briefed on your roles," Ironwood concluded. "Get a good night's rest. Tomorrow will demand the best from all of us, but I trust in each of your capabilities." With that, the group dispersed, their thoughts already consumed by the mission ahead.
Later that evening, Shirou and Blake found themselves in the quiet sanctuary of the private kitchen reserved for their group. The space was modest but well-equipped, its polished countertops gleaming under the soft glow of overhead lights. The rhythmic sound of a knife against the cutting board and the occasional sizzle from the stovetop filled the room, creating an atmosphere of comforting domesticity.
Shirou was focused on dicing vegetables with precision, his movements almost meditative. Beside him, Blake worked on marinating strips of meat, her delicate hands moving with practiced ease. The aroma of soy sauce, ginger, and garlic began to permeate the air, blending with the scent of freshly chopped scallions.
Blake glanced at Shirou, her amber eyes reflecting the warm light. "About the ritual tomorrow... are you ready?"
Shirou paused, setting down his knife. "Ready as I can be. I've assisted in rituals before, but this will be the first time I'm leading one of this magnitude." He met her gaze, his eyes steady but shadowed with determination. "I'm not just doing this for Jacques. It's for Weiss, for Winter, for Whitley... and for Mantle. Kotomine's influence has caused enough harm. This is my way of ensuring it ends here."
Blake placed a hand on his shoulder, her touch light but grounding. "You're not alone in this. We're all here to support you."
The moment lingered before Shirou smiled and returned to his task. Together, they finished preparing the meal: stir-fried vegetables glistening with a savory glaze, tender slices of marinated meat, and a pot of steaming jasmine rice. The vibrant colors and rich aromas spoke of care and collaboration.
"It smells amazing," Blake said as they plated the food.
Shirou chuckled. "Let's hope it tastes as good as it smells."
The dining area glowed with the warm light of suspended orbs, casting soft shadows on the room's stone walls. The atmosphere was a blend of anticipation and camaraderie as Team RWBY, JNPR, and Penny gathered around the long wooden table. The clatter of plates and the hum of conversation filled the space, mingling with the mouthwatering aroma of the meal Shirou and Blake had prepared.
"This is incredible," Nora exclaimed, her voice muffled slightly as she took another bite of the stir-fried vegetables.
The group laughed, the sound breaking through the tension that had been building since the briefing. For a moment, the weight of their responsibilities felt distant, replaced by the warmth of friendship and good food.
Weiss, seated next to Winter, was quieter than usual. Her fork moved absently over her plate as her thoughts drifted to the ritual. The possibility of confronting the truth about her father—and what might emerge during the exorcism—gnawed at her.
Winter noticed her sister's unease. "Weiss," she said softly, drawing her attention. "Whatever happens tomorrow, remember that you are not responsible for Jacques' choices. This is about giving him the chance to be better—nothing more, nothing less."
Weiss nodded, her expression thoughtful. "I know. It's just... hard to reconcile the father I remember with the man he's become. But if there's even a chance this can help him, I have to try."
Across the table, Ruby tried to lighten the mood. "Hey, if Shirou can take down a giant Grimm with just a sword, I'm pretty sure he can handle one Jacques Schnee."
"It's not just about Jacques," Ren interjected, his tone serious but calm. "We're facing something unknown. It's important we stay vigilant."
The room fell quiet for a moment as everyone absorbed his words. Then Penny's cheerful voice broke through. "Together, we are more than capable of overcoming any challenge. This mission is no exception!"
Her optimism was infectious, and smiles returned to the group. As the meal wound down, the conversation shifted to lighter topics—Nora's latest antics, Ruby's plans for Crescent Rose upgrades, and Penny's fascination with cooking techniques. The laughter and camaraderie that filled the room served as a balm, strengthening their bond for the trials ahead.
As the evening drew to a close, the team began to disperse, each person retreating to their quarters with thoughts of the mission weighing on their minds. Shirou lingered in the dining area, gazing out a nearby window at the city lights of Atlas twinkling against the dark sky. He took a deep breath, centering himself for the challenges ahead.
Blake approached quietly, her presence a comforting anchor. "You should get some rest," she said, her voice gentle.
"I will," Shirou replied, turning to face her. "Thank you, Blake. For everything."
She gave him a small smile before heading toward the hallway. Left alone, Shirou allowed himself a moment of quiet reflection. Tomorrow's ritual would test not only his abilities but also the strength of the bonds they had forged. And yet, he felt a profound sense of resolve, knowing he wasn't facing this alone.