RPG A Saiya-jin's Redemption [M-LVS]

[Chaos]

Arano's fury was instantly and widely noticed. He moved as if he were possessed, and crossed the distance of the room in a literal blur. Various cloth articles danced in his wake as he appeared before his half brother, the air wavering in a gentle distortion as his ki could be sharply detected. He picked up Gaul by the hair alone with his left hand, bringing him to eye level, the smaller teen resisting the urge to cringe in the pain that ran like lightning through his scalp.

"What part of my orders did you not understand, child?" Arano bellowed, his voice ringing out into the entire homestead.

He did not even give his half brother the chance to respond before he planted his right fist deep into his stomach. As the blow sunk in, Gaul curled into a ball, his hands clutching at his gut. Arano dropped him without a second thought. Gaul tucked his knees under his body and landed solidly. Though in pain, his eyes still held their ferocity and he slowly inched himself back to his feet. His arms lowered to his side, with his chin high and his arms at his side. Thus, he stood at attention, and looked his brother dead in his face.

"Leading General Arano Karakkaze, I humbly request you allow me to aid you in your endeavor against our foes," Gaul said, in a quaky voice, as he dipped his knee and bowed his head in salute.

Arano turned to the stocky Quartermaster that had originally found Gaul, Volga.

"What the Hell happened?" Arano questioned with hard eyes and his voice stern.

"He read your personal journal, Sir," was his response.

Arano's eye twitched as he turned to look at the gathering, all of which were staring right back. He quickly glanced back to Volga, his face slightly warped in suppressed rage.

"The book or the terminal?" Arano asked, sighing.

"The book, Sir," Volga replied simply, looking down to the slightly quivering Gaul who returned to his stance prior to making his statement.

Arano began to walk back to his seat at the head of the dinner table, speaking calmly and clearly as all the eyes in the room traced his movements.

"Take him into the anteroom, and if he gets out again, your head will be payment for allowing him to escape."

Volga crossed his right arm over his chest and dipped at the waist to bow swiftly, and ushered Gaul back to the original meeting room.

--

After a moment of collecting himself, Arano looked back at Mannix, who had not moved much since the outburst. He cleared his throat and squared off his shoulders in a rather vain attempt to calm down.

"Mannix, I applaud your ability to see the direct point, as always. But I have to say; I am shocked that you can make such an understatement of our race. Even the weakest of Saiya-jin warriors could easily destroy a hoard of these creatures on his or her own. While they are a swarm, yes, they are not unified in mind like Insettites you mentioned, or any of the other countless hive species in the universe.

"They are all individuals, and can barely plot more than five minutes ahead of their raving hunger. From the data we have gathered, they use sheer numbers to overwhelm the targets. More humanoid creatures order the simple grunts, and they are significantly more intelligent. They will not throw millions upon millions of Takrei at our own army at once. A large gathering is a large target. We have reports of previous attacks they made in which they made tactical strikes as opposed to a rushed invasion.

"And even if they did, we would have our full army in alert and stationed in position to intercept. While your point is notable, it is also flawed in that you were on a solitary conquest; here we can call in support of all kinds, including interplanetary back up. There is no need for concern. If we do this right, we will triumph."

Arano paused to look at Ares, and over to Bardock and his two sons.

"But we must rely on each other as brothers in arms. We must work together. All of the Departments must cooperate. Flawlessly, at that," he delayed again, casting a harsh glare at Ares once more.

He glanced at the clock mounted on the wall, and saw that it read fifteen minutes until midnight.

"Gentlemen, we have had an extensive evening. Tempers have spiked, and horrible burden has been unfurled. I suggest we retire for the night, and I will call for an official press gathering tomorrow at the Defense Department Headquarters. And I know most of you still must report to the Council Members and have other duties to attend to," Arano concluded, flicking his neck to Mannix in acknowledgment.

And with that, Arano stood slowly, and the rest of the gathering followed suit.

[Raiha]

[COLOR=DarkOrchid][FONT=Times New Roman][i]As the guests filtered out, Evrada, Oima, and the other nakai bowed, saying nice things such as,[/i]

"Farewell, Good Evening, Please come again soon!"

[i]One by one they left, and just as quickly, the nakai began to clean up the room. Plates were stacked carefully on trays, glasses and mugs, lots of these, were gathered three at a time to each hand, and carried to the kitchen. Nakai paused to take towels and aprons and cover their semi-formal clothes, then continued in the flurry of cleaning.

As soon as the table was completely cleared, Evrada placed both hands on the table cloth and looked up just in time to see her master walk in.[/i]

"You couldn't find a more intelligent guard to watch my brother?"

[i]She lowered her head in a surprising show of defference, even when she knew she could've done nothing to prevent it.[/i]

"I'm very sorry master. He was the most logical choice. And as slaves, we try our best but don't always match up to our masters. in strength and cunning."

[i]He frowned at this and Evrada waited obediently, head still bowed, looking at the floorboards and the edge of the table top. Finally he sighed and waved his hand for her to continue. She looked up finally and jerked the tablecloth into her hands with one swift movement. In the next she turned and tossed it into the hamper already holding a large stack of used napkins.[/i]

"Next time there will be no mistakes master."

"I hope so."

"Yes sir."

[i]Her voice was soft, and her expression and ki were equally void of threat or smouldering resentment. Years of working aorund powerful figures had stopped her from showing these emotions. The fear of their temper breaking on her back had caused her to become an expert at hiding things like this. The best of masters could see her true feelings, but even then, they were somewhat hidden. Like now. She felt angry that she was being held responsible for Gaul's daring midnight escape.

It wasn't her job to guard him. And how could she be blamed for the incompetence of every guard Arano-- no. Her master, had hired? She was assigned a job, she did her best, and as usual, not enough. Nevermind the decent success of the meal and the dishes and food being taken care of in the kitchen. She did well in nearly everything, but failed at this. Evrada turned and walked into the living room, picking up stray glasses and plates. She was tired.

But naturally, she didn't show it. Oima took the utensils from her with a knowing glance.[/i]

"Better you than us."

[i]The rush of water, the clatter of plates, and the general chatter of servants hid their low and very quiet converstaion. Evrada looked up with a surprised expression on her face.[/i]

"I'd rather take the blame if it'll save you all discomfort."

"What about yourself?"

[i]Oima looked interested in Evrada's opinion, as barely anyone on staff had ever heard her express one. Evrada's eyelids flickered slightly. If she had pupils, they might've dialated.[/i]

"The self isn't important when you're in our position. We serve. Our feelings and experiences aren't important to our masters."

[i]With that bit of selfless wisdom, she turned and left. Evrada didnd't know if Oima was an informer, but she knew above all that to express any opinion to anyone but herself or the dog, was a very bad idea. Once up the stairs and in her room, she locked the door, took off her clothes, and sank down to the floor without getting undressed. So tired. Reeling and smarting with resentment, hot tears sprang into her eyes that went away just as quickly.

Tears were useless. Maise Cuidad had taught her that much. She swiftly dried her eyes with her knuckles, then stood and pulled on her nightgown. Two steps from her closet was her futon, and she collapsed into it like a dead woman. The covers were quickly pulled over her head and sleep enveloped her.[/i][/FONT][/COLOR]

[Andrew]

After several hours of fumbling about in the bowels of the chamber Raspout emerged when a collection of shrill beeping began to emit from his scouter to signal to him that it was now half past twelve. He made his way out and tapped a button that disabled the scouter and Raspout left the lab area and ascended a flight of stairs to his apartment.

The room was quite small, but enough for its occupants. It was made up of a living area, a very small dining area (most of the food was provided for the techs) and two bedrooms each with an attached bathroom. The entrance led into the living area, which had a few chairs, scattered, a table with some blue prints and scruffy written notes, a large mirror on the main wall and large square on the opposite wall. There was a corridor that led to the dining area and on either side of the corridor were the doors to each bedroom. The other bedroom was occupied by Raspout’s older sister.

After one look in the mirror he tore removed his clothes and threw them into the square in the wall which worked as a cleaner and would have them cleaned and returned to him in several hours. Raspout immediately entered his wash room and began his shower. The inspection of the chamber had left him covered with grease and all kinds of black coloured filth. The water was warm and the shower was quick; Raspout didn’t like to be wet for too long and exited hastily.

Raspout dried himself quickly with a flaring of his ki and pulled on another black jump suit from his closet. This was followed by the routine pulling on of his grey gloves and boots and then he headed for a special compartment on the far wall next to the cleaning slot. It opened when Raspout pressed his palm against a small reader on the left of it to reveal his ceremonial armour. It was white with yellow shoulder pads like the traditional armour and carried the Saiyajin insignia on the left chest plate. There were however some unique differences with Raspout’s armour; there was a slightly larger insignia on the back plates stating in his name and from underneath the right shoulder pad a red cloth like fabric snaked it’s way out and over the pad to drape down his back. The cloth had more Saiyajin writing on it to state that Raspout was one of the head techs and another that showed he was still a member of the army as well and was indeed a warrior. Raspout pulled the armour over his head and left his apartment once more.

Now outside the lab complex, Raspout took to the air with an explosion of crackling green light surrounding him. His overall destination was the Palace but he decided on a small detour to survey the damages to the Red Light District and to see if repairs were underway. From the sky it was clear how vast the blast must have been and how in Vegetasei’s name had the blast managed to get by unnoticed. The cleaning crew was however removing rubble and what was left of the once flourishing district, so some progress was being made. Raspout then radically turned direction and began to fly against the refreshing night air on his way to the Palace.

Raspout landed gracefully outside the Palace and walked purposefully through the large doors and headed towards the dwelling of the Prince. The guard outside the Prince’s room nodded his head in recognition of Raspout’s presence and Raspout replied with bow.

“Has the Prince returned from the meeting with Master Arano?”

“He returned not too long ago. What business do you have with Prince Vegeta?”

Raspout’s face formed a smirk as he prepared himself. He loved being asked about the special task that the Prince had asked him about personally and yet hated explaining it to those Saiyajin who did not hold an understanding for his work.

“The Prince has asked me to keep him notified on a project I’ve been working on and I wish to comply with this by talking with him now.”

The Guards eyebrow raised with an untold interest but he opened the door and entered to announce Raspout’s presence to the Prince.

“My Liege, Raspout from the Tech Division to see you.”

“Send him”

The Prince’s reply seemed a little more harsh than usual and with a lot of anger evident. Raspout walked into the room quickly and then dropped to one knee and placed his right hand over his chest and bowed his head in front of Vegeta.

“Welcome Raspout, what news have you got for me...?”

[PiroMunkie]

The king-size, dark, wooden doors to Mannix's comparably modest estate smoothly opened as Mannix retired for the night. He probably would not sleep right away, but he did not [i]plan[/i] on having to go out again until daybreak at the least. He closed the door with apparent fatigue, then taking the time to stretch his limbs. His home was larger than one person would need, but not by too much. He personally refused to take servants, as opposed to many of those of high class. He had an unspoken empathy for them, because he was raised by those very people. Also, being the work-a-holic he is, he did not spend much time there as it was.

He made his way to his study without haste. This room was where he spent the other half of his ridiculously anal life. He moved to his desk and removed his formal armor he had worn to Arano's meeting, placing it on the often-used rack standing adjacent to his desk until he decided to go to his room for the night. He sank into his chair and sat back in it for a moment before paying attention to anything. It was at that time a low beeping caught his ear.

On his desk, his scouter sat in front of his computer terminal. A solitary, small icon blinked on and off. Someone had tried to contact him while he was away. Mannix picked the scouter up from his desk and secured it over his ear, and activating its re-contact system before leaning into his terminal and checking on what data and reports had been sent directly to him in the past several hours. After a few seconds, a voice came over his scouter.

"Tetop here. What's your business?"

"Address me as 'Sir,' damnit," Mannix said passively, his attention divided between the conversation and reviewing the data for the evening.

"Yes, Sir. I'll try and make it quick," the TA said as he corrected himself and made his way to the point. "We have been receiving electronic reports back from the numerous teams you sent out to repair the deep-space sensors. A majority of the are back in working order, but there is a good section which took more damage than the others. We actually had to make the teams that came back after finishing go out again to bring spare parts to these sensors. However, the most significant turn of events came as a result of the readings we began to get as these sensors became operational."

Mannix sat back in his chair and folded his arms across his chest, giving the TA his undivided attention.

"Go on," Mannix said.

"To begin with, Sir, each team that we have had a chance to speak with personally has reported picking up a large source of power on their scouters. None of them could get a definite reading off it, as its level was constantly fluctuating, but it was rather unnatural for that area. Needless to say it was a little unnerving, with the recent strike on the Red Light District and all. I am almost afraid to say the readings we received from our repaired sensors were even less comforting." The TA paused his in speech. Rapid typing could be heard over the scouter. "I will send the files to you now, if you wish, Sir."

Mannix directed his eyes to his terminal screen. "Go ahead."

A few more keystrokes were heard, and a series of documents, both text and visual, began popping up on his screen. Mannix leaned into his terminal once more and opened all the of sent files, analyzing each of them briefly, for now.

"The visual files are just one from every hour," the TA said, "but the data shows that the mass is growing steadily. It is difficult to see in the visual readings, but it is there."

The images displayed on Mannix's screen were almost indentical to those energy scans Arano showed at his meeting, except these ones were noticably larger. One thing was clear, they were getting closer.

"How often are we having the sensors permanently record these readings?" Mannix asked as he wiped a hand tiredly over his forehead.

"Once every fifteen minutes," the TA responded. Mannix nodded his head to himself, and cleared his throat.

"Make it once every five minutes, and have copies of the data sent directly to me until further notice. And if there is a drastic change within the five-minute interval, let me know immediately. I shall send these over to Defense now," Mannix said.

"It will be done, thank you for your time, Sir," the TA said.

The link was closed. Mannix took a moment to glance over the data. He then tapped a button and spun his chair around where a large monitor on the wall flashed on, displaying what was on Mannix's terminal screen. Every five minutes, the data would refresh. He studied these readings intently. The TA was right, the level of power was never the same from one reading to the next. The real question there was whether that is how the source of this power was naturally, or if it was being done intentionally to throw off the sensor readings.

One things that bothered Mannix was how long this power had gone undetected. There was a sudden appearance of it once a few months ago, but it was gone soon after and we thought nothing of it. Perhaps someone in Defense later stumbled upon these creatures once again. This was the first time Mannix had heard anything of them since then. So really, none of this was new, but now it was critical. If only word had been spread further in advance, at least among the high-ranking individuals in each department, greater precautions could have been taken to prevent such actions as what happened yesterday morning in the Red Light District.

Arano was right, though. Mannix's main experience with mobs was always him against the masses. At least here, the Saiya-jins had the homefield advantage. The unity of the Saiya-jin race was a force to be reckoned.

[Burori]

Gaul moved across the prison cell while awaiting the arrival of his Half brother Arano. The room of which he blessed him of staying in was a mockery and a disgrace. He looked upon the half-empty or half-full glass of the liqueur that the half-breed Evrada gave to him earlier before his attempt to find out what this whole meeting was about. Now he knew of some form of creature bent on destroying them. He didn?t know what he only learned a little from his brother?s journal entry but like all Saiya-jins they would never leave too much information behind unless it was well guarded or trusted to be safe. The bubbles of the liquid began to steady upon the surface of the glass. He looked at it with a gaze that pierced the very tip of the glass. Though nothing occurred with that gaze the glass was one of a few things left in his mind. He turned to one of the guards whom was ordered to stay in the room and watch his every movement which gave him no surprise, after all like Arano said: He is my brother.

He called out to the guard for a refill on the glass he raised. The man nodded slightly and turned to another guard outside of the room and said to bring in the pitcher. The man disappeared for a short while then returned and entered the room cautiously. He motioned toward Gaul watching him showing that he didn?t want to be tricked and grew frightened of Arano?s wraith. Gaul smiled as he watched the man approach. He sat upon the sofa and acted as if he was royalty. ?Don?t worry I don?t bite?that much.? Gaul said with a soft chuckle. The man refilled his drink them took off to take his place back at his post. Gaul looked at the full glass then sighed. He felt the bruise on his stomach from Arano?s blow. Although he showed that it was painful he couldn?t have helped but enjoy it. Pain was not uncommon to him as it wasn?t to any Saiya-jin. But unlike most of them they don?t take that much pleasure from it.

It wasn?t the first time Arano hit him and he knew it wasn?t going to be the last. He likes to think of these hits as a mere brotherly tap to show he cares of him. Yet he tries to stay away from his true brother?s taps since he lands blows that cause more pain than he could bare. He didn?t care though for this night. He wanted to enter into an event just as important as Burori?s. He may not possess his brother?s incredible birth right of ki that he developed far more superior than that of the King?s or the prince?s. Or that he did not obtain his brother?s insanity within battle he did get one of his traits though and that was his lust to become stronger and fearless in the darkest times. He was looking forward to this invasion.

Gaul laid back after taking a nice long drink from the glass. He closed his eyes and remembered his training with his brother. The man seemed to be a tyrant mostly showing very difficult strain to not harm him for if he were not his brother he would not have survived the training in the first place. His brother?s ability in combat seemed flawless and majestic so marvelous he was blinded by the perfect form of his Majesty. But once he grabbed a hold of his focus he saw the arts of war through the movements of him. Burori showed little opens to allow him to attack. He was like a tank ready to run him over. From this sight Gaul knew what he was as well, he was a Saiya-jin. Although he did not possess the incredible powers that Burori possessed which no other being in his people could he was still part of a race which would never bow down to anything and die to their very last breath for only one purpose only, to better themselves.

He looked at all his missions of when he was sent out after his brother?s training. The first of his missions were to eliminate the race, Traffracts. They were difficult since they all relied upon sight. It didn?t take long until he knew what to do to kill them all with no problems. Using the sunlight he cast upon himself he began to change into the Saiya-jin?s true form, the Ohzaru. After that the memories of those moments were clouded but still some stayed within his mind. The incident of one of those men shot upon him a ki blast which left a keep cut onto his tail which the scientists and doctors on his planet could not fix. He was fine with it though so that it reminded him of what he went through. Every battle he went into he reserved a reminder of them and each one he treasured equally. Although he held onto the lust for conquest that all Saiya-jins held he also respected his opponents he faced, the one trait that separated him from all the others including his brother.

He heard the door within the room opening slowly and a figure walked in and advanced towards him in a rhythmic motion showing no signs of worry or fear. The sounds of the footsteps began to intrigued Gaul as the figure continued to walk towards him. Gaul could not see the face of the one walking towards him since he had his eyes closed for who knows how long. He sat upright and tasted his drink which felt warm so no doubt he must have been asleep for a long while. He looked at the man as his eyes began to focus.

[Gavin]

[size=1][I]The sound of his bootsteps echoed off the marble floors of the Command?s extravagant corridors, his gaze passing from one object to another, just something to pass the time whilst he waited to be debriefed on Oncier. The clearing had gone perfectly, not a single Oncieran was left on the graveyard world, their once pitiful planet would now be home to those affluent enough to retain the services of the Saiya-Jin. His face was forever chiselled into a calm, humourless stare, he had now time for fools, whether they be his inferiors, or eve his superiors, his work and pay was all that mattered to him. He had earned a loathing among several of the Military?s Command, consistently rising in the ranks, whether or not they believed he had been deserving of it, but Kane cared little of their opinion, if they were weak then they did not deserve their power. Command had sent a pair of lackeys along, more than likely to make sure he didn?t make any detours within the building, although if he wanted to there was nothing these fools could do to stop him.

Standing slightly under two meters Kane was quite large for a Saiya-Jin, although among the Elite, pairings that would result in superior offspring were the normality. Although now that birth power-levels were no longer cause for rank Kane had to endure the stench of weakness among those who led him. He had to admit however that there had been precedents to prove that weak births could yield superior warriors, but he called little for statistics. Only on the battlefield could true power be proven, and if it was not, then death was the only suitable punishment. His memory flashed back to the battle over Vegetasei, how Furiza, their once powerful master had fled in terror against superior forces, it was a day celebrated for weeks, and a day that would continue to prove the overwhelming power of the Saiya-Jin race. His attention was returned by the cessation of the guards bootsteps, the guard named Vorca turned to him, staring in part awe, part contempt at Kane.[/I]

[b]Vorca:[/b] [[i]Smirking[/i]] General Arano will see you now.

[i]Kane smiled internally, he had only ever met Arano once before, a skilled warrior and commander, one of the few superiors he actually respected. However Kane was also aware that Arano was head of the Defence Council, and would not have been involved in the day-to-day runnings of Black Operations, still if Arano had called Kane to meet him then there was obviously a good reason. The large thick doors slid back, Kane strode forward, calmly, purposefully, although inside he was eager to know why Arano had called him, and if it involved combat. Arano was seated in Commander Adanis? large stone chair, there was but a desk and a number of feet between the two warriors, Kane could sense Arano?s power, he studied it for a moment before meeting his gaze.[/i]

[b]Kane:[/b] You called me here to speak with you ?

[i]Arano merely surveyed the Saiya-Jin warrior for a moment, perhaps he was trying to unsettle Kane, if that were the case then he would not succeed, Kane would not show any weakness before a respected superior, he would die before he did. A sly grin spread over Arano?s face, perhaps he was satisfied with Kane?s performance, perhaps he merely wished to toy with him for a few moments longer to get down to business, whatever it was Kane was no surer of his position than he had been from the moment he entered. He knew little of Arano, beyond simple facts and some rumours, his military record was enough for Kane to respect him, but his behaviour was something Kane was not accustomed to. Usually when he arrived back he would be paid by whatever Commander had given him the mission, and then watch as the pompous fool gloated about how he would prove himself superior to the others to gain a high command. For a moment the energy between the two seemed to crackle, Kane wondered what exactly Arano had to say to him...[/i][/size]

[Raiha]

[FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=DarkOrchid][i]Bianya woke up late as Evrada anticipated, and was greeted by the delicious scent of honeyed fruit and steaming tea. Evrada was standing at the door, holding a tray, looking none the worse for wear considering the rough time last night. She was clad in her customary tunic, leggings, and belly chain, looking cool, calm and collected. She bowed her head to her master's partner and entered when Bianya waved her hand. The handmaid set the tray of light brunch down on the table next to the expansive bed and put her hands behind her back.[/i]

"The meeting went well I'd say."

"Yes Ma'am."

"Do we have any leftovers?"

"Not really Ma'am. Everyone was hungry."

"The usual then. Thank you for breakfast. You can go now."

"Yes Ma'am."

[i]Evrada knew she sounded like a mynah bird if even that much but she knew that any other words were best avoided. Any sort of opinion was a bad idea, any sort of spark, spunk, or otherwise spiritly action would be frowned upon. At least that's how Evrada had programmed herself. Yes Ma'am and Yes Sir were the safest of responses to give to any statement, opinion, or fact expressed by her owners. And on that thought, she glided down the halls, robe billowing behind her slowly, almost like wings.

A warrior was standing in the hall, staring at one of the many paintings on the walls. He didn't look at her, but she detected a subtle change in his features that denoted his awareness of her presence. She continued on, not looking back at him. To stare so boldly would be a terrible breach of etteqite. Once she exited the hallway, she was met by Oima and two nakai. They looked none the worse for wear, and they were dressed in the usual simple outfits, sleeves tied back by a white cord, hair bound up tightly with two sticks of wood.[/i]

"Master Arano is in the meeting room. He has an engagement with a warrior."

"I think I saw him in the hallway. Tall?"

"And horribly good looking too. They say his name is Kane."

"I didn't notice. All I saw was tall."

"You would."

[i]Two of the younger nakai giggled terribly, blushing and raising their hands over their faces to hide blushes. Evrada rolled her eyes at their girlish behavior. Definitely not something she had programmed into them. She had no idea where they got it from, but it was best ignored, and not encouraged. Thus educated on the name of their guest, she entered the steaming kitchens. The servants and cooks were at work, as usual, pouring, stirring, mixing, and generally making enough noise to wake the dead. The clatter of pots and pans was a pleasant change from the deathly silence of the halls.

The tray with Arano's lunch was already waiting on the counter, with another tray for the guest. Evrada balanced both on her palms and dipped her head to the chefs. They said nothing as usual, but bobbed their heads back. Thus weighted down, Evrada started back up towards the meeting room where she knew she'd finally see the "handsome" Kane.[/i][/color][/font]

[Chaos]

The dead silence of the room was broken as Arano approached, his heavy footsteps melding to the polished hardwood floor. His half-brother had been dozing on one of the couches and cringed slightly at the warm beer that awaited his dry throat. Arano merely waited, his arms crossing over his chest in a rather clichéd stance of aggravation. Gaul opened his encrusted eyes, a shine coming over him as he stirred.

For a good, long minute, neither of them said a word, and just listened to the faint tocks of the clock. After the silence grew to a deafening level, as anticipation often seems to do, Arano inhaled sharply.

?Gaul, I will give you the benefit of the doubt here and let you explain why you willingly escaped,? said the Leading General, slowly, both to make sure his words could not be misunderstood and to cut through the slight buzz he had gained over dinner.

Gaul remained quiet, the only noise coming from the groan of the couch as he adjusted himself to sit upright.

?You know as well as I do, boy, that I would have talked to you before the night was done, if you had just waited,? Arano continued, taking a seat across from his half-brother.

Gaul nodded gently, looking at the slight froth of his beer disappear as it settled.

?Evrada had me locked in a holding room, and I guess I just?? Gaul near whispered, remaining respectful.

?She did, hmm?? Arano said, eyes clouding in thought. ?I did not make mention of imprisoning you. Ah, well.? Arano shrugged once, his face clearing as he returned to matter at hand. ?I left it to her good judgment, and she did what she thought was best. Still doesn?t give you the excuse to knock out one of my guards and go through my personal log.?

Gaul looked up briefly at his brother, before glancing back down to his drink and started to run his finger along the glass, wiping condensation off.

?I am a Saiya-jin, Arano, and if something big was happening, something that could endanger our species,? Gaul said, pausing every few words to make sure his vocabulary was carefully chosen. ?I think I should be let in on it, if only for my? Our,? he corrected himself. ?Heritage. We carry within us the blood of the Legendary Super Saiya-jin. We should be the first to find out such things.?

Arano stared hard at his brother, noting the fire in his words, however calm he attempted at being. Gaul had obviously developed a complicated view of the world, one that should give him everything as soon as it happened, with no filters for either the good or the bad. Arano decided to drop that matter, and move on.

?You said you wanted to fight, child, but you do not even know the specifics of our enemies.?

?Such is a Saiya-jin?s destiny.?

Arano nodded absentmindedly, quite taken aback at Gaul?s use of the Leading General?s own philosophy against him.

?If I were to send you into battle, this very moment, surrounded by strange fighters, outnumbering you impossibly, with no definite help anywhere around you, would you still want to go through with it??

Gaul stood slowly, turning to watch where the dancing flames once roared in the fireplace diminish to a mere flicker. He clenched up his fist, and spoke through gritted teeth.

?I was born for a reason, Arano. If it is to die in battle, then that is my fate. I have no choice but to accept that.?

Arano rose from his seat, at a mild pace, and lowered his arms to his side. He faced the door, and dismissed the guards with a toss of his head.

?Very well then. When it comes to it, you will fight by my side, Gaul,? Karakkaze said, his voice now strict and devoid of affection. ?There will be an official announcement at ten in the morning, from the Defense Department headquarters. Make sure you?re up to watch. Go home now.?

Arano looked over his shoulder to see his half-brother shyly turn to face him, Arano?s calmness taking out the last of Gaul?s determination.

?We will not speak of this to father.?

Gaul dipped his head in brief acknowledgment, and watched his brother leave the anteroom.

--

[b]Three minutes past one.[/b]

Arano climbed into his bed, his clothing neatly laid out over the bed?s bench, ready for the morning. But for now, he would rest, and marshal his thoughts. Slipping under the covers, he gently brought his arm over Bianya?s stomach. She faced away from him, similarly nude, and curled slightly in anticipation of sleep that would not come.

A moment later, she rolled over violently, and began sobbing as she buried her head into Arano?s chest, her hands wrapping tight around his barreled chest and nails digging into his skin. She wept loudly for some half an hour, Arano holding her in his arms without care of his masculinity; Bianya needed him, and he was not going to turn his back on her.

After her wailing subsided, she continued to cry softly as she rested her head on his breastbone, unwilling to look him in the eyes as her dread consumed the room.

?Arano, you can?t,? she finally managed, after much stammering. ?Please, you can?t.?

?Bianya, I??

?No, Arano, I won?t let you. You can?t leave me. Yesterday was just the beginning, I know it.?

?Bianya, listen. This is who I am. You know that. You have always known that. Every time I go on a mission, or I get into a fight, I become a different person. I become what every Saiya-jin covers in a layer of civility and sentience.?

?Arano, you can?t. This is too much.?

?I must. There is no stopping it. This is my purpose. I was placed in this world to fight, Bianya. I was placed in this world to conquer.?

?Please, no, no, NO!? Bianya shouted, over and over again, until her throat was hoarse and she finally stopped to catch her breath and sob once more.

Arano pulled her up on him, bringing her face to nestle beside his own. She dug her claws into his back, in some defiant way of keeping him there. He did not waver, neither in pain or sorrow, but only brought his thick arms to wrap around her, binding them even closer.

?I promise I?ll come back. I promise I?ll protect you. I promise??

Bianya said nothing, only listened to his words and her own moaning.

??That when this is over, we will always be together.?

After another hour in his arms, Bianya pulled away, and rolled over again, back to his side, but remained very close. Arano?s arms pulled her in tight in an embrace, his left arm under her smaller frame and his right over her side. Their hands joined, and Bianya sobbed no more. As she drifted off to sleep, she heard Arano?s voice one last time, before she passed out.

?I love you.?

--

[b]Eight fifty-two.[/b]

As Arano stood from his personal office?s chair he made his way around the dark, oaken desk, his standard battle armor in impeccable condition, and began to rattle off.

?So, this is Kane, eh?? he said, his powerful, commanding voice once again recovered from his gentler murmur that he reserved for the nights. ?I have heard many rumors. I can tell they do not do justice already.?

Kane lowered his head slightly in reverence, a mild motion that maintained his arrogance but also acknowledged the compliment. He stood perfectly still as Arano paced circles around him, inspecting, calculating, reviewing. Kane had heard Arano was particular with those he did not know yet invited into his home, and he was somewhat glad he heard right. A man that is that picky has just reasons to be so.

?You are reported to have the highest success rate for the more?discreet missions we are hired for, am I correct?? Arano questioned as he came around to stare at Kane with a smirk on his face and his muscled arms crossed tightly over his armor. ?Of course I?m correct. That?s why I?m talking to you.?

Kane?s right eye twitched as he heard this. Something about this comment struck him as odd, as almost as if Arano was pumping him up.

?What would you say if I were to offer you fifteen million in both gold and property if you were to undertake the hardest task of your life??

Kane?s attitude suddenly vaporized in the realization that Vegetasei?s most prominent non-royal military figure was trying to hire him. The repercussions rang through Kane?s mind as he tried to imagine what could possibly cause Arano to offer so much so that Arano would not face whatever chore it was.

?Hmm. Your hesitation makes me wonder if you are as brutish as I?ve heard,? Arano said with a laugh, enjoying the irony since he was known, too, for being particularly violent on conquests. ?Tell you what, Kane, enjoy breakfast with me. We?ll discuss the terms over some good food. How?s that sound? When was the last time you ate something that didn?t come in a packet??

And with that, Evrada entered, a guard ushering the door open.

[Raiha]

[FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=DarkOrchid][i]Evrada watched the guards open the door and steeled herself for either an upleasant shock or something equally bizzare. She entered, cloak flowing behind her like a waterfall. Once she was at the table she bent her knees to place the trays down without tipping anything. Even so, one of the forks clattered to the floor. Without missing a beat, she finished setting down the trays and bent at the waist to pick it up.

As she stood, she could feel someone's eyes on her, but she didn't look. Evrada drew out a fresh fork from the roll of napkins and utensils in her hand. Setting it down, she turned and left the room, about to return with the drinks. She might be strong physically, but the large ammounts of food customarily shifted by Saiya-jins required two full trays of food and a second trip for beer.

She fled down the stairs, headed for the kitchen, and opened the door with her left hand. One of the many cooks took the dropped fork while another pressed a pitcher into her hand and two mugs.[/i]

"Not exactly a breakfasty sort of drink, but I doubt grapefruit juice would go over big with two warriors."

"Maybe prune juice."

"Highly doubtful."

"Thanks."

[i]She backed into the door, opening it with her behind, and then headed back up the stairs. Her boots echoed dully from the halls, the carpets absorbing some of the sound, the walls bouncing back the rest. The door was opened by the guards again and she placed down both mugs and filled them with a graceful tilt of her left hand.

Once everything was set out, she stepped back and clasped both hands behind her back. Arano and Kane sat, giving Evrada the chance to examine the gust more effectively. She didn't stare, instead she watched the wall and depended on her perefrial vision to fill her in. Very tall, like they had said, muscular from the look of his skin. She could almost see the strength rippling from his limbs. His skin was dark, something that was different from the usual man mucking around, and that in and of itself warranted the nakai's squealing interest. She closed her eyes and waited for someone to call her.[/i][/COLOR][/FONT]

[Gavin]

[size=1][i]Kane's gaze moved slowly along Evrada's perfect body, she was easily one of the most stunning women he had ever laid eyes on. However considering the vast majority of Kane's consorts came from the Red Light District, he wasn't very well acquainted with such beauty. Returning his attention to Arano, Kane could see a fully formed smile on his face, obviously Kane's attempt at discretion was unsuccessful, Kane could only assume Arano might use this to his advantage, after all Kane would have done the exact same. His mind once again returned the offer Arano had made to him, 30 million in gold and property, even for a mercenary as well funded as Kane this was an exceptionally large payment. He was also aware however of the obvious nature of the offer, in his trade pay and danger levels rose in sync with one another, however Kane was never one to shy away from a challenge, however he did sense an underlying unease, as though there was an urgency about it. Raising his glass to his lips Kane sought to discern more of what Arano had told him, however he was not an easy man to study, he features gave away nothing, Kane had been very right to respect him.[/I]

[b]Kane:[/b] [[i]Taking a drink[/i]] Your offer is obviously meant to intrigue me General, a mercenary as talented as myself earns a substantial fee for my services. However this 30 million is well beyond anything I would be offered for something as simple as a planet clearing, even in the most dangerous of circumstances. Which makes me wonder what could possibly be either so pressing or suicidal as to require such a substantial reward, still in saying that I am a mercenary, and by nature we are a greedy bunch. So [[i]Raising his glass to Arano[/i]] what is it you would like me to do ?

[i]Arano chuckled for a moment, as though reassessing what he had though of Kane, many mercenaries tended to be all muscle and no brains, but Kane was of Elite stock, something that he would never overlook. Arano's gaze now hovered over Evrada for a moment, attracting Kane?s attention back to her, Evrada herself seemed to shift posture as this attention from two very suitable males. Kane obviously knew what Arano was doing as he returned a gaze to him smiling, another subtle difference between the Elite?s and other classes were that they often selectively bred in order to produce better, stronger offspring. To them it was almost instinctive, they would be able to determine a suitable mate from only a handful of observations, and Kane had obviously ?observed? Evrada to be very ?suitable?, even if she was only half Saiya-Jin.[/i]

[b]Arano:[/b] [[I]Slyly[/i]] Perhaps I misjudged you, you seem to be far more than mere dumb-muscle, you have a ruthlessness and cunning that obviously shines through from your class, no doubt the result of a successful union.

[b]Kane:[/b] [[i]Equally furtive[/i]] Your obsequiousness honours me General, I have to admit my father was never one to give lower classes their due respect. Perhaps that?s why he his lost his command and now sits at home recanting his glory days to anyone who will listen, much like many other fools who call themselves my superiors.

[i]The air seemed tense around the two warriors, Arano had dangled the proverbial carrot in front of Kane, and now sought to stroke his ego enough to take a bite. However Kane was not a fool, and would not bite until he was sure that the carrot wasn?t poisoned, no matter how large a carrot Arano wanted to dangle in front of him. Their meals had laid almost untouched throughout the entire meeting, Kane knew the meal was a prelude to the reasons behind Arano?s offer, but he felt hungry and would not insult their beautiful maître d? but not sampling the food. Arano was correct in assuming that Kane often ate meals from packets, however he was still very well acquainted with fine cuisine from his upbringing. Raising a forkful of the meal to his mouth he watched Arano match his movement, whether this was for Kane?s benefit or Evrada?s he was unsure. Once the flavour of the food reached his palette however he became unconcerned with Arano?s movements, the fare was excellent and he ate it with some gusto. Minutes later their two plates lay empty, along with a number of drained mugs. Kane relaxed back into his seat, ready to hear whatever proposition Arano had to offer him, and after that he might satisfy his craving for female company with Arano?s servant.[/i][/size]

[Raiha]

[FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=DarkOrchid][i]Evrada waited for Arano's non verbal signal. As soon as she saw it she seemingly glided forward and cleared the table, stacking trays and mugs, balancing the pitcher in one hand and the flatware in the other. She hadn't missed a thing, but she checked the table once more just to be on the safe side. Thus assured of her competence, she stood by the door and waited for it to open.

Nobody watched her then, and nobody witnessed her exit. Once she was in the hall, Oima and a nakai were waiting to help her carry the goods downstairs. Naturally, as soon as they were out of earshot of the meeting room, door closed and all, they pounced.[/i]

"So what's he like?"

"Is he dreamy?"

"Is it true that he's a dark skin?"

"Did he stare at you? I know lots of them do whenever they visit."

[i]Evrada blushed, even though her eyes showed none of the dialated pupils that usually accompanied this sort of action, and both of them noticed.[/i]

"He's easy on the eyes. Dark skin, yes, not dreamy really. He has that tough guy feel rather than that."

"Oooh. Did he check you out?!"

"When I dropped the fork, yeah. I supposed he might, but it was kind of ...different."

"Yeah, you're blushing like crazy."

[i]Once they had finished this exchange, they were already back to the kitchen. And once there, Oima felt obliged to inform the entire staff that Kane the Warrior and Elite Mercenary was interested in their very own supervisor, Evrada, handmaiden of Arano. Evrada groaned inwardly and picked up the tray holding the men's dessert.[/i]

"Please spare me."

[i]Laugher accompanied her exit. She rolled her pupiless eyes and made her way back upstairs to the meeting room. The door was opened for her and she set down the dessert, this time avoiding dropping anything that'd require picking up. Once everything was laid out, she stepped back again and waited for the next cue.[/i][/COLOR][/FONT]

[Chaos]

Arano continued to smile broadly, a clever front to those unwary enough to pick up on the subtleties. He had indeed laid the trap, and regardless of what Kane thought, his mind had already been made up for him. The Leading General was always regarded as a military genius, and what better way to express it than by applying his practice to his life?

Inwardly, he sneered at Kane. True, he was a fitting warrior, a man worthy of his blood, but he obviously looked for the ends to the means of an unsolved problem. In Arano?s eyes, he could see the ideas forming in Kane?s head, doing whatever was necessary to expel his seed and further his heritage. He looked for an uncertain and vague future over a secure investment.

The talk of Elites also reminded of Arano?s distaste for the haughty. He was born in the old age, where he was classified as a First Class, not enough to get him the best of life, but enough to sustain him. Granted, he progressed naturally, through time, with little aid and raw ability, and was now one of the figurehead warriors on Vegetasei, but he never had anything handed to him. He had surpassed his own father by the age of six, and from then on out, considered himself a man, no more, no less.

By the time he was fifteen, the changes had been made to the social structure. It was at this time he was catapulted into the cream of the crop, but never really grew accustomed to it. Whether or not subordinates feared him, he did not account that to his rank, but instead of his strength.

Being around others who were considered Elites, he saw their true nature, and how they weighed the lives of lesser classes against their own. Scores of men would fall just to live up to an aging Saiya-jin?s name, and the lesser crowds were considered rugs to walk over so that one?s boots would not become dirty.

Arano had lived his life around the very people he was now categorically destined to abuse. He had seen how he they were treated just because of the rating of their ki. No man should ever be considered a weakling just because he does not possess the energy to blow up a planet, especially not a Saiya-jin.

Arano picked up a scent of lust from Kane, albeit a faint one. He sought her for the simple purpose of mating and creating another thorn in society?s side, not that Arano could exactly blame him. It was, after all, instinct, but Karakkaze could not help but think that it was a tad shallow, even for an Elite.

But, even for his hatred of such an act, he decided it would be best to use that to his advantage. Thus, he sat forward, arms over his knees, with a slightly more serious air about his body.

?Kane, if you?ll clear your head for a moment, I think we should discuss the terms of this contract a bit more thoroughly,? Arano said, his voice booming, as if he were addressing an entire audience. It could be said he was preparing for later on in the day. ?As you probably know, I have two half-brothers, and a cousin, all of which are fine warriors.?

Arano stopped, smiling, and thought to himself: [I]"One a bit more than the others."[/I]

He resumed, ?Burori and Turles are currently out of the Saiya-jin system, conquering and setting up a training and stationing base deep in outer space. The youngest of my family, however, Gaul, is still here. And he has found out about our newest threat.?

And so, Arano began to explain the strife that loomed overhead.

[Andrew]

The Prince’s room was well furnished with marble floors and walls and a desk with a nice finish. The desk was the first thing that caught Raspout’s gaze before he dropped to his knee. He arose and made direct eye contact with his Prince and brought a huge smirk to his features.

“Well Prince Vegeta, the chamber you asked me to work on has now passed my preliminary tests and the prototype is ready for your use. I thought it only fitting that you be the first person to fully tests it’s limits since you encouraged and supported the idea.”

Raspout’s comment seemed to stir something in Vegeta, a memory long forgotten perhaps, but the Prince swiftly shifted it aside and strode purposefully from behind his desk and towards Raspout.

“This is excellent news Raspout but there are more important things at hand right now,”

At this Raspout’s demeanour altered drastically. His Saiya-jin smirk faded and he slumped ever so slightly. Vegeta, however, continued not noticing the change.

“Perhaps it is better that you continue the tests under your own power and I’ll come directly to your lab for the trials after this ‘problem’ has been resolved.”

At this Raspout put his protective smirk back up and bowed before speaking one last time with his Prince.

“It would be an honour my Prince, however if you feel that any of my skills could be put to use with this ‘problem’ as it were you will notify me?”

Vegeta smirked at his fellow Saiya-jin and then gripped him by the shoulder to show him his way out.

“You can count on it.”

Raspout left Vegeta’s chamber and was escorted back to the front door in much the same way that he’d been shown in, yet this time he lacked his confidence. Now slightly disheartened, Raspout took to the air once again. It was at times like this when the Red Light District would have been perfect for a few drinks but for obvious reasons that would not be possible tonight.

The air was brisk tonight. Rather than dart back to his apartment quickly Raspout flew slowly and admired the feel of the slight wind on his face. The cool night air suddenly brought back to him a memory of one of his very few experiences off world. It must have been at least four or so years ago now. He was sent to a small planet that had just been purged to collect all it’s technology and any thing that looked like it could have been of use to the planet.

Since there was no danger to Raspout’s health with the planet having been purged a day earlier he was sent to meet the Purge Team by himself in a one-man pod. He slept most of the way however, but woke just as he was planetside to see the entire city blanketed with a strange white substance that he had not yet encountered in his 13 years of life.

“What is it?”

Were the only words that formed at his mouth as he met the Purge Team. He just stood in awe of the fluffy white stuff just barely listening to the answer he was so eagerly awaiting.

It was at this time that he was jerked out of his reverie as he saw his set of buildings come in to view all lit up in the night sky. There were many things in Raspout’s life that he definitely took for granted but sight was not one of them. He studied and watched everything with deadly accuracy and admired all things that were beautiful and were deserving of his admiration and sometimes even small insignificant things caught his admiration.

Raspout swept into his apartment and then into his room like a hurricane seeking the sleep he desperately needed after yet another several days with little sleep. Upon examining he apartment on his way through it was apparent that his older sister had been and left again. To do what he couldn’t say, his sister was like a woman possessed on most occasions and lately they very rarely saw each other with her build up of work and Raspout generally living in the lab. He could always catch up with her some other time when she demanded to see him that way she always did when she hadn’t seen him in so long, but right now sleep beckoned him as a lusty wife would her husband and he would not disappoint.

[Gavin]

[size=1]I meant to reply here sooner but my so called ?social life? reared it?s ugly head over the last fortnight or so.

[center]---------------[/center]

[i]Kane's mind raced as Arano gave forth all the details about this new threat, a threat of this magnitude had only ever once been faced in his lifetime, and that "threat" decided to turn tail and run before facing the might of the Saiya-Jin. However as powerful as Furiza had been, this new enemy was decisively deadlier, one warrior sufficiently powerful could destroy an entire planet, but an army of weak being, incredible in size might possibly overwhelm them through exhaustion and numbers. Kane raised his right had to his chin, stroking it with his thumb and index finger, military strategy was best left to Command, but this was no mere planet clearing, this was the possible annihilation of the Saiya-Jin race. Once Arano had imparted all the details of the impending disaster Kane merely stared at him in thought, he made no movements, only sighing deeply as he took it all in.[/I]

[b]Kane:[/b] I?m going to assume that the general populace of Vegetasei is not aware of this threat ?

[b]Arano:[/b] That is correct.

[i]Kane sighed again, deeper than the first time, he knew that if all was done properly then they?d have little to worry about, the Saiya-Jin had some of the most brilliant commanders in all of the Universe, but that didn?t stop him thinking of the worst case scenario.[/i]

[b]Kane:[/b] [[i]Slowly[/i]] You mentioned something about a brother ?

[b]Arano:[/b] Yes, Gaul, I don?t think he?s ready yet to face this threat as would other, older warriors.

[b]Kane:[/b] I understand, I?ll keep an eye on him, but I?ll not be his sitter.

[b]Arano:[/b] I wasn?t asking you to be...

[i]He pondered what he was being asked to do, it was odd that with relations such as Burori and Turles that Arano was asking Kane to keep an eye on the little sod, he had better things to do on the battlefield than look after a kid. Still if Arano wanted him to do it then there was more than likely a good reason, that and there was a good reward for doing it. Between the property and wealth he was being offered for taking part, he supposed watching the back of Gaul would probably be covered by something else, perhaps a favour for sometime down the road, or perhaps something a little more tangible right now. He stroked his chin once more before raising his glass to his mouth again, it was a lot to take in, 3 hours ago the Saiya-Jin had been the most powerful and feared race in the galaxy, now there were facing possible defeat.[/i]

[b]Arano:[/b] ...however I am prepared to offer you something in return.

[b]Kane:[/b] I only want one thing in return sir...

[i]Arano raised his eye at the use of the word sir, it had been the first time he?d used it in their conversation[/I]

[b]Kane:[/b] ...and I think it would be of benefit to you as well.

[b]Arano:[/b] And that would be ?

[b]Kane:[/b] To be blunt sir, I was command of Black Operations.

[b]Arano:[/b] [[i]Chuckling[/i]] And where is the benefit to me in this ?

[b]Kane:[/b] As you well know many of the commanders at Black Operations find me to be insolent, complaining that I don?t respect the chain of Command. However sir it is my opinion that many of these men are in fact morons who are not fit to supervise the department in a time like this, they are fools who got their positions by favours and father?s friends. With respect if they were to be replaced with a more proficient commander there would be a benefit to the military as a whole.

[b]Arano:[/b] Ah so be ?you? you were referring not just to me, but the entire military. What you are asking is quite a request Kane, Commander Adanis and his staff have had an high success rate over the last four decades, however you would argue that the only threat they?ve ever really faced was Furiza. You realise I will probably have to explain this to his Highness, he may have objections to it due to what you called ?favours and father?s friends?. Return in an hours and I will give you your answer.

[i]Kane rose from his seat, wondering exactly what that answer would be...[/i][/size]

[Raiha]

[FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=DarkOrchid][i]Kane stood and exited the room. Once he was in the hall he turned in a circle, looking for the exit. Like a wraith, Evrada was standing several feet away. He flicked his eyes in her direction, detecting a subtle change in her energy. She raised her head slightly, not quite facing him, but enough towhere he wasn't looking at the crown of her head anymore. He noticed the burn mark in her forehead, a perfect oval.

She gestured towards what he certainly hoped was the exit. Then she began to walk down the hall, clock obscuring any view he had hoped to gain. They passed several serving girls and the like who tittered and giggled behind upraised sleeves and aprons. Evrada put a palm to her forehead, as if supressing a blinding headache. As soon as they were out of earshot, Evrada flicked on her second sight. It showed that the serving girls were now exclaiming how he had looked at her....and her only.

Kane had considered saying something to the effect of: "Are those women under your control?" When Evrada turned, at the end of the hall, and looked him in the eye, one eyebrow raised, both pupiless eyes giving him pause.[/i]

"Is there something you want from me sir?"

"You should know what I want."

"I don't think my master would approve."

[i]She kept her voice low, and at her last words, she dropped her head slightly. The color surged into her cheeks, 350 volts, minimum. Kane would've touched her cheeks, both a bright pink, but she turned instead and looked away, seemingly wavering. On one hand, if it didn't interfere with her work, of which there was none at the moment...what was to hinder? On the other, if she said yes, what would he think of her? She bit her lower lip, something he found amazingly cute.

Evrada shook her head to clear it, then flicked a finger at him, beckoning him to follow her up the stairs. As she did, he picked up her scent, pheremones, similar to the kind she had used on Gaul. But then again, she wouldn't have needed those to ensure that he follow her. He knew instinctively that she would lead him to her room, and she did. The door opened when she waved her hand over it, and he stepped inside.[/i][/COLOR][/FONT]

[Burori]

Gaul awoke with a moan and a groan. He wished not to wake up yet he had no choice with his servants beckoning him to awake. He looked around his room and saw that he tossed his clothes upon the ground with haste to fall asleep. He knew his servants would take care of it but he felt a little ashamed of himself to show such an action in his own household. The words from his half-brother Arano rang within his head constantly. He was overlooking exactly what happened and he didn't like it, or maybe he did. Gaul never faced many worthy opponents but this one was different, this one was dangerous. He smiled and took his cloak from his servant whom at the time was cleaning the floor. He got dressed and walked downstairs to come face to face with his father who looked at him with a smile.

"So Gaul I overheard you were at Arano's home yesterday." Paragus spoke as they ate their breakfast. Gaul only looked at his father and gave a nod as a response. He promised Arano that he would not mention the danger to him and he planned on keeping that promise. "Well I also heard that he had other visitors there also including the prince."

"Is there a point to this father?" Gaul asked a little annoyed at his fathers probing for the answers.

"I am only wondering what went on there that's all."

Gaul then started to wonder what to do from here. Tell him and fail to keep that promise or lie to his own father? He moved quickly to show no signs of weakness. "Arano wanted to show the prince and the others a new technological breakthrough. To me I find it was too boring."

"Of course it would be..." Paragus said eyeing Gaul carefully. He spoke no more of it and continued to eat. Gaul then finished and went up to his room than sat upon the cold surface of his floor and fell into a deep trance. He wanted to make some sort of image of these creatures he heard from Arano to see if he could find a weakness before he faced them. Like all the teachings that Burori taught him this was the basic of them all, Know your enemy.