Chapter 6
~~~~~~~The tour is over, the Saiyains are about to meet with Master Sakuno~~~~~~~
"Now, you'll all get your turn to go in. Ya see, you're here so he can judge you." K'Naki said. They all waited for him to continue but he said nothing. Lyra figured he needed a little prompting.
"And." Lyra asked.
"And nothing." K'Naki said.
"We can't tell you anything else." Gio added.
They stood outside a circular building that looked to be roughly 12 feet tall with a dome roof. It had no windows and only one door. It opened. A middle aged Saiyain girl saluted the trainees. They saluted her back and she smiled.
"Will Radu, Radditz, and Kakkarot of the Ancient Earth Clan please enter to see Master Sakuno? He is ready to see you." She saluted again and turned around.
Radu gulped and, after glancing at her friends one last time, she entered the building. Kakkarot and Radditz followed behind her.
~~~~~~~Inside Master Sakuno's house~~~~~~~ The main room was circular and at the end opposite the door, an old man sat. His hair was completely white and his back was bent with age.
"Master Sakuno? The three teenagers from the Ancient Earth Clan are here." The lady said.
"Hmmm? Oh yes yes, come closer, come closer." The master said. They approached hesitantly.
"Radu, sit right here. Yes, very good. Now Kakkarot, on her right and Radditz on her left." They complied. "Good good."
"Excuse m-" Radu began but was cut off.
"No talking!" Master Sakuno snapped. He spread his arms out and with a smooth, swift motion, brought them together and down into his lap.
"Now. Hmm. let me see. yes. You are Bardock's children. Leadership is strong in you, Radu. Now. I can see, oh good. You shall lead this group into great things. Not only battles. Always keep your wits about you, girl. Always!
"Now, Radditz, you love your siblings. You are very strong. Strong, yes, but you must learn to trust in your own ability. Depend on yourself, yes, yourself, though trust those who put their trust in you.
"Kakkarot. My Goddess! Such potential! A well of power at your disposal, yet you stand at a crack in the wall where small amounts of power leak through, as if you believe this is all the power you can obtain. Ah well. Someday, it will be at your disposal. I hope your ready.
"Now. I see you require a weapon other then fighting. Your mind calls for something. I can't quite make it out. ah yes. Presa!" The lady appeared from outside. "Bring me the nyoibô." Presa nodded and shut the door.
"Kakkarot, what you will receive is called a nyoibô, or magic staff. According to what you tell it to do, it will extend or go back to it's normal size. It is made of unbreakable wood and, if you tell it to, it will stand up on it's own. A useful tool, if there ever was one.
"Now, I am through with you. You may wait for your companions in that room." He pointed to a door that had not been there a moment before.
The three young Saiyains just stared at him with wide eyes. They were clearly amazed, confused, and maybe a little scared. Master Sakuno turned to them.
"Go! I don't have all day!" He snapped. They slowly got up and walked into the room. They door shut behind them.
Presa opened the door holding a red pole in a case that made the pole easily carried around and grabbed. Master Sakuno pointed to the door. She nodded and walked into it. After a couple of seconds, she was out again. She turned to Master Sakuno.
"Who shall I bring in next?" Presa asked.
"The orphan girl. I believe Radu called her Lyra of the Koudama." Master Sakuno answered. She nodded and walked outside.
~~~~~~~Lyra's POV~~~~~~~ The middle-aged Saiyain came out again. She saluted the group and said,
"Will Lyra of the Koudama please come with me? Master Sakuno will see you now." She turned around and walked inside, closely followed by Lyra.
When Lyra walked in, she only saw a stooped over old man. She was surprised, having expected to be physically tested. Hiding her surprise, she walked about three feet away from the man and saluted. He watched her with amusement and a trace of something else in his eyes. Lyra couldn't quite figure it out. Pity? Sorrow? She didn't know.
"Sit down, Lyra. No need to be so formal. Yes, very good." The Master said. He took a deep breath and spread his arms wide. His eyes shut. He brought his hands together and clasped them tightly to his chest. Suddenly, his eyes flew open.
"What an amazing structure your friends erected for you! Virtually seamless and totally useful! Amazing!" Master Sakuno said.
Lyra smiled. Radu told him about that? she thought. She must really trust him.
"Yes. Would you like to know why they made it?" Lyra ventured cautiously.
Master Sakuno was surprised but he didn't show it.
"Yes Lyra. I would like to know."
She took a deep breath. She felt safe telling it to this master.
"I don't know who my parents are. I only know that I am not a full Saiyain. One of my parents was of a different race. When I was younger, this fact was not completely obvious but as I got older, it was clear to see I was different. Yesterday, after a fight with my friends, they came and gave me a reason, well, I guess what can be called a reason to continue to be myself."
Master Sakuno nodded.
"Someday you'll appreciate it more. Yes, I can see it. Now dear, close your eyes. Relax."
Lyra complied.
Master Sakuno closed his eyes and clasped his hands to his chest once more. He started rocking from side to side. After about a half a minute, he started speaking in a low, monotone voice.
"You were with your mother for a very short amount of time. Only a matter of weeks. She was killed and your father took you here. Your mother was a." He stopped and opened his eyes. Lyra did the same.
"Was a what?" She asked softly, half not wanting to know the answer.
"Don't ask impertinent questions!" Master Sakuno snapped. Lyra was slightly taken aback.
"Now. Let me see. Yes, good. Lyra. you must trust your friends. They love you and would die for you. Let not the fact you are only half Saiyain hinder your training because you have only a slight handicap. You must trust in your ability to fight because fight you can and fight you must." He was then silent for a moment.
"I have a weapon that will suite you and only you. Only I can teach you how to use it though. Its called a ki staff for, when used correctly, it can issue blasts of ki without being detected by your enemy. It is also useful for whacking people with. Presa!" He called. The middle-aged Saiyain walked in. "Bring me the ki staff." He told her. She saluted and walked out.
"Now. Did you understand everything I've told you? It may not make sense until you're older but don't forget it!" Master Sakuno told Lyra. She nodded.
"Alright. You may wait in that room with your friends." He pointed to a door that seemingly appeared out of nowhere. Lyra nodded, slightly awed. She turned back to Master Sakuno.
"How did." Lyra began.
"Don't tell me you didn't see it?" Master Sakuno said incredulously.
She shook her head.
"Child, no one can see that door until I want them to." He paused. "Except for you."
"Me?" Lyra said.
"I can only tell you that by birthright, you should be able to see it." He waited for her to catch on.
"Wait. because of my mother, right?" Lyra asked quietly. Master Sakuno nodded.
"Because I have some knowledge in the arts she partook in, I shall teach you how to harness your potential into a true ability. Come back here tomorrow after rest hour and you shall train with me for four hours. I will also teach you how you use the ki staff."
Just then, Presa walked in with a long wooden staff. There were two areas where the wood had been ridged (handholds) and at each end, there were clear crystals shaped like small boomerangs. Lyra thought it was beautiful. Presa walked over to Lyra and gave it to her. Lyra took it carefully.
"You can inspect it in the other room. Now go!" Master Sakuno told her. She turned to him, smiled, and fled the room.
"Who shall I bring in next?" Presa asked.
"Hmmm.bring in Adrian and Yokito of the Makkiu Clan. Yes, I think I'll see them next."
~~~~~~~Adrian's POV~~~~~~~
Waiting outside was nerve-racking. The three guards, who had refused to talk, had taken out their scouters and were now playing some game. The only sounds they made was the occasional grunt.
Vegeta. well, Adrian didn't even bother to try to spark up a conversation with that loner. He leaned against the side of the building, arms crossed and eyes closed. Yokito sat meditating. Outwardly calm, Adrian could sense that he was mentally confused. And the lady who seemed to work for the master. Adrian didn't have any idea about how to start a conversation with her. Periodically, the girl was called in and she would come back out, walk behind the building, and come back minutes later with a weapon in hand.
This left Adrian on her own. So she paced. Then she sat down. After about half a minute, she got up with a cry of disgust. Gio glanced away from his game and watched Adrian pace. He pities her. The waiting was wearing Adrian to her nerve's end.
Gio? K'Naki's voice interrupted his thoughts. It's your turn, man. Is something wrong?
No, I just feel bad they all have to go through so much waiting. I mean, they're probably a little bewildered by this whole experience. In one day, their whole world has changed! Not necessarily in a bad way, but definitely a big change.
Dudes, I didn't even have to wait. It was just me and my guard. She was a real babe! Palmer said.
Neither Gio nor K'Naki had the chance to answer because the lady had come back out.
"Will Adrian and Yokito of the Makkiu clan please come with me? Master Sakuno will see you now."
Adrian got up and followed the lady into the building, closely followed by Yokito.
Inside, Adrian saw an old man sitting on the ground. After sending Yokito a confused glance, she walked forward.
"Yes, yes, come forward, Adrian and Yokito of the Makkiu clan. Sit here, yes right here in front of me. Good." Master Sakuno said. Adrian and Yokito sat down in front of Master Sakuno. He spread his arms out to the side and brought them together. Then, he brought them smoothly into his lap.
"Yes, Adrian, fighting is strong in your blood. You feel it calling and you answer any challenge, and yes, I see you fight many fights that could have been avoided or.that weren't yours. You are strong in spirit as well. Yes, such strength has not been seen in a female in a long time. Your clear head in battle is a wonderful quality that will help you. Yes, keep your clear head.
"And Yokito, you are loyal. Yes, very good. Never turn away from your friends, you are a pillar of support and a ball of flexibility. Yes, a difficult burden to bear. Your flexibility could lead to some bad choices. Well, you might. yes you might be able to overcome your bad choices. Achh! Your brain waves are very hard to interpret! So many choices! Will you decide. no. I will say so more." Master Sakuno said with a note of finality.
Adrian heard Yokito gulp. She was amazed. This man was astonishing.
"The only thing I can do for you is give you what your mind clearly, yes clearly, calls for. Presa!" The lady walked in. "Bring me the ninja stars!" He turned back towards Adrian and Yokito. "While I cannot sense what we all require in knowledge of your future, I can give you what you require in a physical sense. Have you ever noticed that your aim is particularly true?"
It took a little bit if time for Yokito to realize he had been asked a question.
"Uhhh. no." Yokito stuttered.
"No, no, of course not. Now, you will receive 8 ninja stars. You know what ninja stars, don't you boy?" Master Sakuno snapped.
"Uhh. yes, yes sir, I do." he stumbled.
"Good! It is not a weapon that you will use as your main attack. Easily concealed, deftly used. It is only a useful tool that can help in virtually any way. It can scare people, hurt people, catch objects that can be pinned against the wall and they are especially good for delivering that blow that never kills, hurts like none other, and scares people like an unknown foe is wont to do." Master Sakuno let the thought hang in the air for a moment. Then Presa was back. She had a wooden box in her hands. She handed the box to Yokito, who looked bewildered that he was being given something. Presa stared at him expressionless.
"Well? Are you going to take it?" She asked in a nice alto voice. He slowly lifted up his hands and clasped the box.
"Now, go through that door. Wait for your last companion there." Master Sakuno commanded. Adrian looked swiftly behind her shoulder. She hadn't seen any other door then the one she had walked through! But sure enough, there was another door when she turned around. She turned back to Master Sakuno and glared. She hated feeling curious and out of control. She got up and walked over to the door. She looked back at Yokito, who was still confused. She shut her eyes and imagined him standing up and walking over to where she was. Then she sent the image to him. His head swiveled around and he looked at Adrian. She widened her eyes and motioned with her head.
"Oh!" Yokito said, scrambling up. He walked over to Adrian and they went through the door.
~~~~~~~Vegeta's P.O.V.~~~~~~~
When the lady walked out again, Vegeta knew he was going to be called in next but he stayed against the wall.
"Will the Prince please follow me?" The lady said. "Master Sakuno is ready."
Vegeta pushed away from the wall and followed her in. How he wished he could see the expression on the guards' faces! It would have been priceless. He smirked thinking about it.
"May I ask what you find so amusing?" An old man asked. Vegeta looked down on the man. He knew it was the master but he still had a mean response.
"Just the fact that you're still alive at such an old age. Shouldn't you be with the Goddess now?"
"Cute. Real cute. Now sit down and shut up!" Master Sakuno said.
"Oh, I see the old dog has some bite left!" Vegeta sneered, but he took a seat anyway. Halfway across the room, that is. The master sniffed. He spread his arms wide and started humming. Through half closed eyelids, Vegeta watched the old man. Suddenly Vegeta felt himself moving forward. He threw his arms out as if to catch himself from falling but then he regained his composure. He crossed his legs and arms, shut his eyes, and put an uninterested expression on his face. After about twenty seconds, he came to a stop. Still, Vegeta didn't move. And Vegeta got the surprise of his life.
Master Sakuno slapped one of Vegeta's cheeks. Vegeta's expression didn't change but his eyes opened and he kept his head in the position in which it had landed. Master Sakuno slapped the other cheek, grabbed Vegeta's chin and brought it close to his face.
"Enough bite for you, boy?" He growled. Vegeta pulled back and regarded the master. Vegeta could see a lecture coming. He scowled.
"I don't know who you think you are! A prince? Bah! I've seen whores that brought less attention to themselves! What do you think being a prince is? And why do you think you're here? Well? Answer me!" Master Sakuno demanded. With a dramatic sigh, Vegeta mumbled a response.
"To get stronger, smarter, be a better commander, get used to different types of people, and to gain humility."
"Damn right! That's why you princes are sent to this camp for this reason. Your father came here, and his father before him. But never have I seen a prince with such high regard for himself as you, Vegeta. Your father was too free with you." Master Sakuno shut his eyes. "And you have to correct the mistake. You're going to have to push yourself. You're strong, Vegeta. You have such potential. But if you don't curb that pride of yours, you are going to make some stupid mistakes, hurt people that you'll wished you hadn't, and do things that you'll regret.
"I see that in your time of crisis, one you need most will be where you wish to be, but for another reason. Vegeta, through all your adventures, remember that you must trust your companions. In the future, when you question many things, don't question them."
"A prince must prove himself, Vegeta. When you are king, none other will be as worthy as you." His eyes opened. "You understand, don't you?"
To tell the truth, Vegeta was a little taken aback. This man was crazy! Did he just read Vegeta'' future?
"I understand perfectly old man. I thank you for your wise council." Vegeta said sarcastically. To his surprise, Master Sakuno smiled.
"Any time, boy. Now, It has come to my attention that your father gave you throwing knives. Are you wearing them now?" He asked.
"Yes."
"Good. Wear them at all times! A prince can never be too careful." Master Sakuno warned.
"You will continue to come here and I will train you many things a prince must know. How to charm a lady, how to nobly dance the dance of death, how to rule a country, how to treat a 3rd class Saiyain, and even better, how best to use those little toys of yours."
"What are you saying? You must be senile in your old age. Charm a lady? Nobly dance the dance of death? What are you saying?" Vegeta said, surprised.
"Holding court in the palace is like a game. A terrible game, made up of weak alliances, petty grudges, lies, back stabs. and as a prince, you will be at the center of it all. Nobles will try to befriend you, ladies will pursue you, and all this just to be in your good graces, not because they like the person underneath.
"But before you are king, you are a prince. And while you are a prince, men will challenge you over many things. You insulted their family, you stole the heart of a lady that was once theirs, you didn't eat a course that was native to their home. truly its all ridiculous. You cannot fight in the traditional sense, no, you must be neat and clean about it. Set a time and place, come with a strong man in tow and he will fight a man chosen by your opponent." Before he could say anything else, Vegeta interrupted him.
"This is ridiculous. I've been at the palace for my whole life and I've never seen a fight in such a manner. I've ever even seen any of the nobles fight!"
"Good. You shouldn't see any of those things because they are done in private, although there are many spectators. You aren't an adult yet and therefore have never been aware of these activities. Have you ever attended your father's court?" Master Sakuno asked.
"Of course. It is a duty of the heir to attend five times a week." Vegeta answered matter-a-factly.
Have you ever noticed that it is the nobles who attend this court? Not their children? Well, while the parents are at court, there is a whole other court being held for the children of the nobles who are unmarried. Only the king and his family know of the court, for your father started it. I believe Lord Ako, son of one of the king's royal advisors, is currently overseeing it. You will oversee the court when you return from purging your first planet because that is when the court sees you as an adult.
"Don't tell me you haven't ever been approached by a noble who has tried to befriend you, to get you to met his beautiful daughter, or to weasel in and find out the opinions of your father?"
"Yes," Vegeta answered cautiously, "it is true that that has happened. I generally ignored them."
"When you return as an adult, it will be worse. You must never be rude, Vegeta, for there are two ways to win loyalty. With fear and with love. A good king uses love to win loyalty." Master Sakuno stopped talking for the first time in a while. Vegeta was clearly overwhelmed, though trying to hide it.
"Any questions, my lord?" Master Sakuno asked sardonically.
"Yes." Vegeta took a deep breath. "How about charming a lady? Why would I ever need to do that? And why didn't my father tell me about the court I would lead? When and why did he start it? Why am I an adult only after I purge a planet? Its not like I'll ever be able to purge another one. I'll be stuck in the courtroom. And how do you know all these things?!"
During Vegeta's little speech, Master Sakuno's eyes widened.
"A curious little boy, I see. Well, you will continue to come here and all your questions will be answered. Which is a lot of them, I might add. I'll only answer one if you promise to not ask any more until we next meet." Master Sakuno said. Vegeta rolled his eyes but nodded anyway.
"I was companion to your grandfather." Vegeta glanced sharply at Master Sakuno. "As a final note, my lord, you are probably extremely confused because you didn't spend as much time with the other nobles as you did out of the palace, training, or studying. Now, go and talk to your friends. I'm sure you're all eager to talk. And don't worry about the guards. They won't tell anyone you're the prince. I'm sure most of the camp knows already." Master Sakuno said. "Come back tomorrow after lunch and bring the halfling with you. Now you have wasted enough of my time! Go through that door!" The Master pointed.
Vegeta got up and walked through the door, apparently undaunted by the fact the door had just appeared out of no where.
~~~~~~~The tour is over, the Saiyains are about to meet with Master Sakuno~~~~~~~
"Now, you'll all get your turn to go in. Ya see, you're here so he can judge you." K'Naki said. They all waited for him to continue but he said nothing. Lyra figured he needed a little prompting.
"And." Lyra asked.
"And nothing." K'Naki said.
"We can't tell you anything else." Gio added.
They stood outside a circular building that looked to be roughly 12 feet tall with a dome roof. It had no windows and only one door. It opened. A middle aged Saiyain girl saluted the trainees. They saluted her back and she smiled.
"Will Radu, Radditz, and Kakkarot of the Ancient Earth Clan please enter to see Master Sakuno? He is ready to see you." She saluted again and turned around.
Radu gulped and, after glancing at her friends one last time, she entered the building. Kakkarot and Radditz followed behind her.
~~~~~~~Inside Master Sakuno's house~~~~~~~ The main room was circular and at the end opposite the door, an old man sat. His hair was completely white and his back was bent with age.
"Master Sakuno? The three teenagers from the Ancient Earth Clan are here." The lady said.
"Hmmm? Oh yes yes, come closer, come closer." The master said. They approached hesitantly.
"Radu, sit right here. Yes, very good. Now Kakkarot, on her right and Radditz on her left." They complied. "Good good."
"Excuse m-" Radu began but was cut off.
"No talking!" Master Sakuno snapped. He spread his arms out and with a smooth, swift motion, brought them together and down into his lap.
"Now. Hmm. let me see. yes. You are Bardock's children. Leadership is strong in you, Radu. Now. I can see, oh good. You shall lead this group into great things. Not only battles. Always keep your wits about you, girl. Always!
"Now, Radditz, you love your siblings. You are very strong. Strong, yes, but you must learn to trust in your own ability. Depend on yourself, yes, yourself, though trust those who put their trust in you.
"Kakkarot. My Goddess! Such potential! A well of power at your disposal, yet you stand at a crack in the wall where small amounts of power leak through, as if you believe this is all the power you can obtain. Ah well. Someday, it will be at your disposal. I hope your ready.
"Now. I see you require a weapon other then fighting. Your mind calls for something. I can't quite make it out. ah yes. Presa!" The lady appeared from outside. "Bring me the nyoibô." Presa nodded and shut the door.
"Kakkarot, what you will receive is called a nyoibô, or magic staff. According to what you tell it to do, it will extend or go back to it's normal size. It is made of unbreakable wood and, if you tell it to, it will stand up on it's own. A useful tool, if there ever was one.
"Now, I am through with you. You may wait for your companions in that room." He pointed to a door that had not been there a moment before.
The three young Saiyains just stared at him with wide eyes. They were clearly amazed, confused, and maybe a little scared. Master Sakuno turned to them.
"Go! I don't have all day!" He snapped. They slowly got up and walked into the room. They door shut behind them.
Presa opened the door holding a red pole in a case that made the pole easily carried around and grabbed. Master Sakuno pointed to the door. She nodded and walked into it. After a couple of seconds, she was out again. She turned to Master Sakuno.
"Who shall I bring in next?" Presa asked.
"The orphan girl. I believe Radu called her Lyra of the Koudama." Master Sakuno answered. She nodded and walked outside.
~~~~~~~Lyra's POV~~~~~~~ The middle-aged Saiyain came out again. She saluted the group and said,
"Will Lyra of the Koudama please come with me? Master Sakuno will see you now." She turned around and walked inside, closely followed by Lyra.
When Lyra walked in, she only saw a stooped over old man. She was surprised, having expected to be physically tested. Hiding her surprise, she walked about three feet away from the man and saluted. He watched her with amusement and a trace of something else in his eyes. Lyra couldn't quite figure it out. Pity? Sorrow? She didn't know.
"Sit down, Lyra. No need to be so formal. Yes, very good." The Master said. He took a deep breath and spread his arms wide. His eyes shut. He brought his hands together and clasped them tightly to his chest. Suddenly, his eyes flew open.
"What an amazing structure your friends erected for you! Virtually seamless and totally useful! Amazing!" Master Sakuno said.
Lyra smiled. Radu told him about that? she thought. She must really trust him.
"Yes. Would you like to know why they made it?" Lyra ventured cautiously.
Master Sakuno was surprised but he didn't show it.
"Yes Lyra. I would like to know."
She took a deep breath. She felt safe telling it to this master.
"I don't know who my parents are. I only know that I am not a full Saiyain. One of my parents was of a different race. When I was younger, this fact was not completely obvious but as I got older, it was clear to see I was different. Yesterday, after a fight with my friends, they came and gave me a reason, well, I guess what can be called a reason to continue to be myself."
Master Sakuno nodded.
"Someday you'll appreciate it more. Yes, I can see it. Now dear, close your eyes. Relax."
Lyra complied.
Master Sakuno closed his eyes and clasped his hands to his chest once more. He started rocking from side to side. After about a half a minute, he started speaking in a low, monotone voice.
"You were with your mother for a very short amount of time. Only a matter of weeks. She was killed and your father took you here. Your mother was a." He stopped and opened his eyes. Lyra did the same.
"Was a what?" She asked softly, half not wanting to know the answer.
"Don't ask impertinent questions!" Master Sakuno snapped. Lyra was slightly taken aback.
"Now. Let me see. Yes, good. Lyra. you must trust your friends. They love you and would die for you. Let not the fact you are only half Saiyain hinder your training because you have only a slight handicap. You must trust in your ability to fight because fight you can and fight you must." He was then silent for a moment.
"I have a weapon that will suite you and only you. Only I can teach you how to use it though. Its called a ki staff for, when used correctly, it can issue blasts of ki without being detected by your enemy. It is also useful for whacking people with. Presa!" He called. The middle-aged Saiyain walked in. "Bring me the ki staff." He told her. She saluted and walked out.
"Now. Did you understand everything I've told you? It may not make sense until you're older but don't forget it!" Master Sakuno told Lyra. She nodded.
"Alright. You may wait in that room with your friends." He pointed to a door that seemingly appeared out of nowhere. Lyra nodded, slightly awed. She turned back to Master Sakuno.
"How did." Lyra began.
"Don't tell me you didn't see it?" Master Sakuno said incredulously.
She shook her head.
"Child, no one can see that door until I want them to." He paused. "Except for you."
"Me?" Lyra said.
"I can only tell you that by birthright, you should be able to see it." He waited for her to catch on.
"Wait. because of my mother, right?" Lyra asked quietly. Master Sakuno nodded.
"Because I have some knowledge in the arts she partook in, I shall teach you how to harness your potential into a true ability. Come back here tomorrow after rest hour and you shall train with me for four hours. I will also teach you how you use the ki staff."
Just then, Presa walked in with a long wooden staff. There were two areas where the wood had been ridged (handholds) and at each end, there were clear crystals shaped like small boomerangs. Lyra thought it was beautiful. Presa walked over to Lyra and gave it to her. Lyra took it carefully.
"You can inspect it in the other room. Now go!" Master Sakuno told her. She turned to him, smiled, and fled the room.
"Who shall I bring in next?" Presa asked.
"Hmmm.bring in Adrian and Yokito of the Makkiu Clan. Yes, I think I'll see them next."
~~~~~~~Adrian's POV~~~~~~~
Waiting outside was nerve-racking. The three guards, who had refused to talk, had taken out their scouters and were now playing some game. The only sounds they made was the occasional grunt.
Vegeta. well, Adrian didn't even bother to try to spark up a conversation with that loner. He leaned against the side of the building, arms crossed and eyes closed. Yokito sat meditating. Outwardly calm, Adrian could sense that he was mentally confused. And the lady who seemed to work for the master. Adrian didn't have any idea about how to start a conversation with her. Periodically, the girl was called in and she would come back out, walk behind the building, and come back minutes later with a weapon in hand.
This left Adrian on her own. So she paced. Then she sat down. After about half a minute, she got up with a cry of disgust. Gio glanced away from his game and watched Adrian pace. He pities her. The waiting was wearing Adrian to her nerve's end.
Gio? K'Naki's voice interrupted his thoughts. It's your turn, man. Is something wrong?
No, I just feel bad they all have to go through so much waiting. I mean, they're probably a little bewildered by this whole experience. In one day, their whole world has changed! Not necessarily in a bad way, but definitely a big change.
Dudes, I didn't even have to wait. It was just me and my guard. She was a real babe! Palmer said.
Neither Gio nor K'Naki had the chance to answer because the lady had come back out.
"Will Adrian and Yokito of the Makkiu clan please come with me? Master Sakuno will see you now."
Adrian got up and followed the lady into the building, closely followed by Yokito.
Inside, Adrian saw an old man sitting on the ground. After sending Yokito a confused glance, she walked forward.
"Yes, yes, come forward, Adrian and Yokito of the Makkiu clan. Sit here, yes right here in front of me. Good." Master Sakuno said. Adrian and Yokito sat down in front of Master Sakuno. He spread his arms out to the side and brought them together. Then, he brought them smoothly into his lap.
"Yes, Adrian, fighting is strong in your blood. You feel it calling and you answer any challenge, and yes, I see you fight many fights that could have been avoided or.that weren't yours. You are strong in spirit as well. Yes, such strength has not been seen in a female in a long time. Your clear head in battle is a wonderful quality that will help you. Yes, keep your clear head.
"And Yokito, you are loyal. Yes, very good. Never turn away from your friends, you are a pillar of support and a ball of flexibility. Yes, a difficult burden to bear. Your flexibility could lead to some bad choices. Well, you might. yes you might be able to overcome your bad choices. Achh! Your brain waves are very hard to interpret! So many choices! Will you decide. no. I will say so more." Master Sakuno said with a note of finality.
Adrian heard Yokito gulp. She was amazed. This man was astonishing.
"The only thing I can do for you is give you what your mind clearly, yes clearly, calls for. Presa!" The lady walked in. "Bring me the ninja stars!" He turned back towards Adrian and Yokito. "While I cannot sense what we all require in knowledge of your future, I can give you what you require in a physical sense. Have you ever noticed that your aim is particularly true?"
It took a little bit if time for Yokito to realize he had been asked a question.
"Uhhh. no." Yokito stuttered.
"No, no, of course not. Now, you will receive 8 ninja stars. You know what ninja stars, don't you boy?" Master Sakuno snapped.
"Uhh. yes, yes sir, I do." he stumbled.
"Good! It is not a weapon that you will use as your main attack. Easily concealed, deftly used. It is only a useful tool that can help in virtually any way. It can scare people, hurt people, catch objects that can be pinned against the wall and they are especially good for delivering that blow that never kills, hurts like none other, and scares people like an unknown foe is wont to do." Master Sakuno let the thought hang in the air for a moment. Then Presa was back. She had a wooden box in her hands. She handed the box to Yokito, who looked bewildered that he was being given something. Presa stared at him expressionless.
"Well? Are you going to take it?" She asked in a nice alto voice. He slowly lifted up his hands and clasped the box.
"Now, go through that door. Wait for your last companion there." Master Sakuno commanded. Adrian looked swiftly behind her shoulder. She hadn't seen any other door then the one she had walked through! But sure enough, there was another door when she turned around. She turned back to Master Sakuno and glared. She hated feeling curious and out of control. She got up and walked over to the door. She looked back at Yokito, who was still confused. She shut her eyes and imagined him standing up and walking over to where she was. Then she sent the image to him. His head swiveled around and he looked at Adrian. She widened her eyes and motioned with her head.
"Oh!" Yokito said, scrambling up. He walked over to Adrian and they went through the door.
~~~~~~~Vegeta's P.O.V.~~~~~~~
When the lady walked out again, Vegeta knew he was going to be called in next but he stayed against the wall.
"Will the Prince please follow me?" The lady said. "Master Sakuno is ready."
Vegeta pushed away from the wall and followed her in. How he wished he could see the expression on the guards' faces! It would have been priceless. He smirked thinking about it.
"May I ask what you find so amusing?" An old man asked. Vegeta looked down on the man. He knew it was the master but he still had a mean response.
"Just the fact that you're still alive at such an old age. Shouldn't you be with the Goddess now?"
"Cute. Real cute. Now sit down and shut up!" Master Sakuno said.
"Oh, I see the old dog has some bite left!" Vegeta sneered, but he took a seat anyway. Halfway across the room, that is. The master sniffed. He spread his arms wide and started humming. Through half closed eyelids, Vegeta watched the old man. Suddenly Vegeta felt himself moving forward. He threw his arms out as if to catch himself from falling but then he regained his composure. He crossed his legs and arms, shut his eyes, and put an uninterested expression on his face. After about twenty seconds, he came to a stop. Still, Vegeta didn't move. And Vegeta got the surprise of his life.
Master Sakuno slapped one of Vegeta's cheeks. Vegeta's expression didn't change but his eyes opened and he kept his head in the position in which it had landed. Master Sakuno slapped the other cheek, grabbed Vegeta's chin and brought it close to his face.
"Enough bite for you, boy?" He growled. Vegeta pulled back and regarded the master. Vegeta could see a lecture coming. He scowled.
"I don't know who you think you are! A prince? Bah! I've seen whores that brought less attention to themselves! What do you think being a prince is? And why do you think you're here? Well? Answer me!" Master Sakuno demanded. With a dramatic sigh, Vegeta mumbled a response.
"To get stronger, smarter, be a better commander, get used to different types of people, and to gain humility."
"Damn right! That's why you princes are sent to this camp for this reason. Your father came here, and his father before him. But never have I seen a prince with such high regard for himself as you, Vegeta. Your father was too free with you." Master Sakuno shut his eyes. "And you have to correct the mistake. You're going to have to push yourself. You're strong, Vegeta. You have such potential. But if you don't curb that pride of yours, you are going to make some stupid mistakes, hurt people that you'll wished you hadn't, and do things that you'll regret.
"I see that in your time of crisis, one you need most will be where you wish to be, but for another reason. Vegeta, through all your adventures, remember that you must trust your companions. In the future, when you question many things, don't question them."
"A prince must prove himself, Vegeta. When you are king, none other will be as worthy as you." His eyes opened. "You understand, don't you?"
To tell the truth, Vegeta was a little taken aback. This man was crazy! Did he just read Vegeta'' future?
"I understand perfectly old man. I thank you for your wise council." Vegeta said sarcastically. To his surprise, Master Sakuno smiled.
"Any time, boy. Now, It has come to my attention that your father gave you throwing knives. Are you wearing them now?" He asked.
"Yes."
"Good. Wear them at all times! A prince can never be too careful." Master Sakuno warned.
"You will continue to come here and I will train you many things a prince must know. How to charm a lady, how to nobly dance the dance of death, how to rule a country, how to treat a 3rd class Saiyain, and even better, how best to use those little toys of yours."
"What are you saying? You must be senile in your old age. Charm a lady? Nobly dance the dance of death? What are you saying?" Vegeta said, surprised.
"Holding court in the palace is like a game. A terrible game, made up of weak alliances, petty grudges, lies, back stabs. and as a prince, you will be at the center of it all. Nobles will try to befriend you, ladies will pursue you, and all this just to be in your good graces, not because they like the person underneath.
"But before you are king, you are a prince. And while you are a prince, men will challenge you over many things. You insulted their family, you stole the heart of a lady that was once theirs, you didn't eat a course that was native to their home. truly its all ridiculous. You cannot fight in the traditional sense, no, you must be neat and clean about it. Set a time and place, come with a strong man in tow and he will fight a man chosen by your opponent." Before he could say anything else, Vegeta interrupted him.
"This is ridiculous. I've been at the palace for my whole life and I've never seen a fight in such a manner. I've ever even seen any of the nobles fight!"
"Good. You shouldn't see any of those things because they are done in private, although there are many spectators. You aren't an adult yet and therefore have never been aware of these activities. Have you ever attended your father's court?" Master Sakuno asked.
"Of course. It is a duty of the heir to attend five times a week." Vegeta answered matter-a-factly.
Have you ever noticed that it is the nobles who attend this court? Not their children? Well, while the parents are at court, there is a whole other court being held for the children of the nobles who are unmarried. Only the king and his family know of the court, for your father started it. I believe Lord Ako, son of one of the king's royal advisors, is currently overseeing it. You will oversee the court when you return from purging your first planet because that is when the court sees you as an adult.
"Don't tell me you haven't ever been approached by a noble who has tried to befriend you, to get you to met his beautiful daughter, or to weasel in and find out the opinions of your father?"
"Yes," Vegeta answered cautiously, "it is true that that has happened. I generally ignored them."
"When you return as an adult, it will be worse. You must never be rude, Vegeta, for there are two ways to win loyalty. With fear and with love. A good king uses love to win loyalty." Master Sakuno stopped talking for the first time in a while. Vegeta was clearly overwhelmed, though trying to hide it.
"Any questions, my lord?" Master Sakuno asked sardonically.
"Yes." Vegeta took a deep breath. "How about charming a lady? Why would I ever need to do that? And why didn't my father tell me about the court I would lead? When and why did he start it? Why am I an adult only after I purge a planet? Its not like I'll ever be able to purge another one. I'll be stuck in the courtroom. And how do you know all these things?!"
During Vegeta's little speech, Master Sakuno's eyes widened.
"A curious little boy, I see. Well, you will continue to come here and all your questions will be answered. Which is a lot of them, I might add. I'll only answer one if you promise to not ask any more until we next meet." Master Sakuno said. Vegeta rolled his eyes but nodded anyway.
"I was companion to your grandfather." Vegeta glanced sharply at Master Sakuno. "As a final note, my lord, you are probably extremely confused because you didn't spend as much time with the other nobles as you did out of the palace, training, or studying. Now, go and talk to your friends. I'm sure you're all eager to talk. And don't worry about the guards. They won't tell anyone you're the prince. I'm sure most of the camp knows already." Master Sakuno said. "Come back tomorrow after lunch and bring the halfling with you. Now you have wasted enough of my time! Go through that door!" The Master pointed.
Vegeta got up and walked through the door, apparently undaunted by the fact the door had just appeared out of no where.