You know, I expected a lot of things on the way here. I prepared myself for what my meeting with Salem would bring. But I can say with full confidence, that I wasn’t ready for this meeting at all.

“So, this is the human you were speaking of Salem. The one that you felt had a connection to the Grimm?” an old yet wise-like voice spoke to the ‘Queen’.

“Yes, it’s very peculiar. I do hope that you can shed some light on the situation for us Mr?”

“Reyes.” I replied with a short response.

“Mr Reyes. Before we carry on are your companions sure they don’t want a seat as well?” she asks in a kind-hearted manner, which may seem weird since she’s the main antagonist of RWBY.

Caster sincerely replied, “We are fine staying by Reyes’ side, thank you for your hospitality.” Which was true, Salem has been a generous host for us so far. Although, that didn’t stop the girls from standing by my side on guard.

To see them like this actually brought a heart-warming feeling inside me that I haven’t felt that often since my late teens. Can’t really blame them for being tense though, considering how the guards by Salem and her unexpected friend gave off the feeling that they were veteran fighters.

“Well, would you kindly tell us why you are somehow related to the Grimm despite being human as well?” asked the old being sitting across from me.

The reason I say ‘being’ is because who I’m speaking to, is the motherfucking Prophet of Truth with his Sangheili Honour Guard… Yeah, like I said, totally not ready for that to happen. I thought my mind was about to shut down from shock, but I quickly got over it and had started to run my mind through the possible worst-case scenarios as a precaution.

The best thing for now is to remain neutral until I get a better picture of what’s happening here.

“I’m not exactly Grimm but from what I can tell, my ‘species’ is related to them if we were to compare the similarities and vibes I get.” I replied honestly, no reason to hide information lest I bring suspicion to myself.

“I see.” Truth stroked his… I dunno what those fugly things on his chin are, and replied, “Is there any way we may contact your people. Like Salem here, I wish to create an alliance and welcome them to the Covenant.”

“I do not know if any other member of my species exists or where they may be if they did.” Which was completely true. I had no idea if Hollows actually existed here or if I was an exception.

“That is a shame, it would have been a blessing to gain more brethren to join us on the Great Journey.” He says with regret.

“Great Journey?” I asked with interest. Of course, I already know what the journey entails but I need to confirm if the Covenants goals are the same as the one from the Halo universe I know of to this one.

I knew that I would see some changes from the original stories and timelines but it never really sunk in that the alternate universes I could possibly be thrown into would have any major differences like this. A crossover between Halo and RWBY, and possibly more. I can’t entirely rely on my ‘knowledge’ anymore.

“Ah yes, the Great Journey. It is our belief that the Forerunners left behind their legacy for us to inherit. So that we may enter a new age where the gifts they left behind will lead us to paradise.” He proclaimed with great joy and faith.

Wanting some more details I asked, “What gifts do you speak of, and how will they lead you?”

The story has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the violation.

“The Forerunners left many holy devices behind, many with the potential to help develop our society even further than it is now. One such gift is the Sacred Rings; however, they are also a danger to all of us.”

I raised an eyebrow at this, because this is definitely different to how the Covenant I know of treated the Halo Array. The one I know of had no idea that the Halos were weapons.

“These rings are made to destroy all sentient life within their range, a last line of defence against the Flood. A parasitic race of Demons that wish to consume all.”

Now that caught my attention. The Covenant knew the Flood were a problem in the games, but the only ones they referred to as ‘Demons’ were the Spartans.

I wanted to dig for more information but before I could ask anything Salem stepped in, “As interesting as this conversation is, I would like to change topics to why we are gathered here.”

Looking at Truth he gave her a small nod, “I suppose we have drifted off course. Reyes, would you be interested in joining the Covenant on our journey?”

What he said really threw me through a loop as I tried to consider the consequences of my response and slowly questioned, “Why?”

“In order for us to succeed in our quest, one cannot do so alone. Although I’ve only just met you, I can clearly see that you are a warrior at heart. As a leading figure of the Covenant, it’s not that hard to evaluate one’s prowess.” He stated with complete honesty.

Remaining silent for a moment I said, “I need time to think on it for now. Although I doubt I was brought here solely for being a possible recruit candidate.”

“Of course, I understand.” He said in acceptance.

Salem took over the conversation from there, “Indeed, I invited you mostly because I was curious but after meeting you in person I can feel my trust in you growing more and more. It could be from the familiarity your presence seems to give off to me and my children but I don’t really mind.”

For Salem to admit that she was trusting of me made me realise that I too felt the connection between my Hollow side to the Grimm growing stronger than earlier.

“I have a request to make. It’s your decision to accept or decline but I’d like for you to hear it first.” She said.

I gave a slight nod with my head for her to continue, “Can you help me free Remnant?”

Tilting my head in confusion at the strange question, Salem elaborated, “This world is slowly dying. The humans and faunus are using up all of it’s natural resources quickly and the overconsumption of dust is a big part of it. If it continues on, then everyone on this planet will die along with the planet.”

Releasing a sigh of frustration, she said, “A majority of Grimm don’t have enough mental capacity to understand how to deal with this problem. The only way they know how is through force and power, following the law of the jungle. I may be powerful and their Queen, but I can’t keep all of them in check.”

“How do I fit into this?” I asked still confused at what she wanted with me.

“I’d like to ask you for your cooperation, since I can only do so much by myself. The Grimm are at war with the humans and faunus and it won’t stop until one side is wiped out. Also, they’ll surely hunt you down as well for many reasons due to the disturbance you’ve caused.”

I rose an unseen eyebrow at hearing I’ll be hunted, “And why is that?”

The prophet was the one who answered my question, “When you arrived our sensors picked up a massive spike of energy originating near the area the Beowolves found you. That spike indicated the energy was of Grimm origin, or something closely related to it. So, there’s no doubt they’d label you a threat.”

‘An energy spike? Is he talking about my Hollowfication?’

[Probably boss. If what they’re saying is true though then we’ve already made an enemy out of Ozpin and his group]

‘I guess you’re right, and the only way we’re moving on to the next universe is if the war comes to a conclusion. ROB never said what side I had to be on though.’ I smirked and offhandedly wondered if the bastard had planned for me to join Salem from the start.

“If that’s the case I don’t think you even need to ask Salem. There’s no one I can really ally myself with if I’ve already made an enemy is there.” I stated calmly.

Smirking at my response she just said, “So your answer then?”

“We’re in, but I don’t work for you. Is that clear?” I said as I released a deathly aura, daring Salem to say otherwise.

Salem and Truth didn’t seem fazed but shared a look of understanding. “Of course, Reyes, but I do hope you join the Covenant with me once the war is over.” Salem replied with a small smile.

I merely gave a grunt in response. “So, what’s first then?” I asked.

Salem gave an eye smile and said, “First, it’s time you meet your colleagues, and possibly restore your arm.”

I looked directly into her eyes before Michael said, [I think I like her already.]

I couldn’t help but agree with him.