Rukia reined in her dual summons, but didn't dispel the casting just yet. Garland had dropped to one knee, but that did not necessarily mean that he was helpless or willing to listen to reason. Still, the others seemed willing to extend an offer of peace, so she restrained herself for the time being.

Jade's warning was heeded, acknowledged with a faint hardening of her jaw. She still didn't unleash the Eidolons -- not until she heard Garland's response, not until she knew whether he would choose to throw down his weapon and step aside, or assume this terrible second form that the reports had mentioned. If it was the latter, then she hoped Hades and Odin would be swift to answer her call.