From Sin, the Author:
Okay, this is the seriously revised version of chapter four. I wrote it at least a month ago but I couldn't stand it so I uh, well, I deleted the entire thing and decided to rewrite it from scratch. Hehe. I tend to do that quite often. Oh well, this is definitely better than what I had originally, so enjoy.
Disclaimer: I do not own any SM/DBZ characters. Now run along and be good little children, and for goodness sake don't try to eat any of the demonic minions, even if they insist that they aren't poisonous. Believe me, it isn't worth it.
***
Love, Demons, and Saving the Universe
Kismet gazed with haunted eyes at the lush green landscape that made up her domain, trying to find solace in the vine draped shadows of the forest. Birds fluttered down on silent wings from their perches, stabbing talons and beaks at the ground before disappearing once again. A faint smile touched her lips as she watched the intricate dance of wildlife crossing her path, but the smile faded quickly. With a weary sigh she began to walk down a well-worn path, her mind fixed on a far off destination.
She had not gone far when she sensed a presence nearby, hovering at the edge of her vision as though uncertain of his welcome. A gentle tug brought him out of the brush, blushing slightly and staring determinedly at his feet.
"Bardock." It was more than just his name. It was an invitation to tell her what was on his mind. Clearing his throat, the Saiya-jin looked warily up at her.
"I'm worried about you." Moments passed without a word and when his admission remained unchallenged, he straightened. "You've been distracted lately, and I can tell you've got something weighing heavily on you." He looked into her eyes for a few seconds, seeking an answer. "Won't you tell me what's wrong?"
"I.it's." Kismet shook her head.
"Kismet." Bardock's eyes narrowed and she bit off her denial before it left her lips. Looking at him she knew that if she didn't tell him he would find out on his own, and would resent having to search because she refused to answer. Her shoulders slumped slightly and she glanced away.
"Knowing the future is a curse more than a blessing. You know that." A shadow of memory passed across the surface of his eyes and he nodded, his mouth twisted into a wry smile.
"Yes. I know."
"Then you can understand how knowing the future can make you want to change it, even if you know that you're meddling with things better left alone." Again Bardock nodded, his eyes hardening as he began to see.
"What's going to happen?" He asked softly.
"If I don't do something." She shivered and wrapped her arms more tightly around her body. "If I don't act, everything will die. Not just the living realms but also the Otherworld will be destroyed. All the people, every life that has ever been will disappear." She closed her eyes. "It will be the end of all things."
Bardock stared at her silently; the shock in his eyes clue enough to what was going through his mind. He opened his mouth to speak, closed it, opened it again and licked his lips in an effort to collect his thoughts. Kismet watched him with understanding and sympathy on her face, waiting for him to come to terms with what she had said.
"Void?" He asked finally, and Kismet shook her head.
"If there were void, then the Lady of Hiatus would be able to harness it and keep the rest of us safe." She turned back to face him, a deep well of sorrow shadowing her gaze. "Bardock it will be more than void, it will be worse than that. I can't explain everything now but." she sighed. "I have to do something. Do you understand?"
"Yes." The Saiya-jin put an arm around her, letting her lean against his chest as she began to cry. "I understand." He did too, because once he had tried to do the same thing on a smaller scale. His only hope was that where he had failed, she would somehow succeed.
***
The Guardian had erected a tent in the army camp of the Fifth World, taking pride in the fact that he did not use any magic in its construction. Looking around at the other tents he smiled, enjoying the feeling of belonging that swelled in his chest. Gathering up his staff he began making his way toward the main tent.
"Is there enough room for one more?" He asked kindly, ducking into the tent. The two generals looked up in unison, regarding him in silence for a few moments. Llywelyn smiled coolly, his dark eyes revealing nothing in a handsome face that revealed even less.
"I think we can spare a little space." He said lazily. Beside him his partner Kaisha scowled, her pretty face twisted into an ugly expression as she opened her mouth to protest. Before she could utter a single syllable however, Llywelyn cut in once again. "After all, you are the leader." Kaisha's mouth snapped shut and she glared daggers at her associate before turning to the Guardian. Both men noticed with amusement as her face changed, melting her scowl into a sweet and charming smile.
"We were just discussing the best way to coordinate the armies for the invasion. I was wondering how you planned to get us all onto a battlefield together when we're on separate planets and the enemy is in another dimension altogether." There was an insult buried in the words and a thread of disgust in her voice but the Guardian only smiled.
"The armies will not be coordinated at all. I expect the Council will send several smaller groups out to engage our forces once they learn that we have mobilized. A small push at the Gate of the Dead and they should finally rise from their age-old stupor. If they are still as irritable as they were eight hundred years ago, they'll do their utmost to destroy us as soon as possible." Smiling widely, the Guardian folded his arms across his chest.
"You seem pretty happy for someone who just said we were all going to die." Kaisha, while trying to keep her voice light, still conveyed her annoyance and her disbelief through an arched eyebrow and a twisted smile.
"We are not all going to die." He replied. "Even if we do die, the deceased will simply become our army in the Otherworld, attacking the enemy from behind." He paused and his smile widened. "The Council won't stand a chance once I have them on two sides. As soon as we take Purgatory and Elysian they'll have to surrender."
"They could retreat to Hiatus." The Guardian returned his attention to Llywelyn, the slyer of the two.
"I am counting on it. If they go there they'll be trapped; the Lady controls the only portals and once I have control of her there will be no escape for them. They will be slaughtered like sheep."
"But how can you be sure that the Lady of Hiatus can be controlled? I've heard she's a real bitch."
"Come now, do you really believe everything you hear? Not all rumors can be trusted and I happen to know that it is a small matter to buy someone such as Lady Void. You really have no faith at all my dear." Leaning forward, the Guardian's smile vanished. "Do you really think that I would allow our forces to go into battle without having thought of all possible outcomes?"
Hearing this the silver-haired general smiled.
"I like the way you think."
"Why thank you." The Guardian turned to Kaisha, who was listening to the exchange with a frown. "Would you mind bringing us some refreshment dear? I find that this body isn't as young as it used to be and I am quite famished."
***
Juraviel couldn't help but shiver as he gazed up at the cold features of the woman he had loved for centuries, finding no comfort in her face. There was no sign of his beloved in the chilly eyes or stone-set features. It was as if her smile and her laughter had been swallowed up by the Lady Void, drowned in her indifference and stifled by her silence. It took all of his strength and resolve not to flee the room.
"You have asked for an audience Lady Kismet." The voice was toneless, as flat and dull as a gray stone. In response the slender ruler of Fate took a few steps forward, leaving the shadows along the wall and coming to stand before the dais.
"There is an important matter that I must speak of with you." Kismet took a deep breath, glancing at Juraviel. "It must be alone."
"Apparently you believe that you have more power here than you actually do. Juraviel leaves only at my request and I do not request that he leave me now." Void rose to her feet and began to walk down the dais. "If you have something to say to me you might as well say it while you still have the chance." She began to walk past Kismet, making her way toward the far door. For a few moments the Lady of Fate paused, hesitant.
"No, wait!" She darted after Void, an expression of desperation in her eyes. "You don't understand." Her fingers wrapped around Void's shoulder. "Please." It was a breathless plea, but it shook something in the Lady of Hiatus's cool demeanor. After a moment Void lowered her gaze and gave a faint nod.
"My Lady." Juraviel's voice trailed off as Void's eyes met his. He felt as though an icy fist had slammed into his gut. "Yes my Lady." He bowed his head and retreated, letting the wide doors shut soundly behind him.
Inside the room Void turned her gaze once more to Lady Kismet, the command in them as firm and brilliant as a whip crack.
"Now, what is it that you wish to tell me?"
***
"Juraviel?" Void wavered on her feet, looking pale as she made her way slowly down the hall. Her voice was weak as she called for her companion, her dearest friend, her love. "Juraviel, please."
He would have ignored her, could have, if she hadn't sounded so fragile. Wincing, Juraviel pulled away from the shadows along the walls and took a step toward her. Tears filled her eyes as she looked at him and she took a staggering step forward before falling into his arms.
"What is it?" He demanded. "What's wrong?" He could feel tears trickling down across his neck, could hear her sobs muffled against his shirt. "Please, tell me what's the matter? What did Kismet say to you?" She didn't answer him, merely cried against his chest and shook until he thought she was going to break. When she finally had shed her last tear she pulled away and looked up at him, a sick desperation in her eyes.
"Juraviel, do you love me?" She asked softly, her voice scarcely more than a whisper.
"Yes. Of course I love you." He watched, helpless as shadows crept across her face and she shuddered.
"And you trust me?" It felt as if everything was riding on his reply, and he took a moment to catch her gaze before answering.
"Always." She finally lowered her eyes and took a step away from him.
"Then don't ask me what she said." ***
Usagi and Goku stared at the massive army camp before them, their eyes wide with disbelief. Just ahead their skeletal friend clucked for them to hurry up, flapping his wings and clicking his bones together in irritation. They followed reluctantly after several moments of hesitation, now thoroughly unnerved.
"I thought we were going to the city." Usagi said in a half-whisper as they trailed behind the poultry-geist. In reply, Goku shrugged and waved a hand at the camp.
"Maybe his orders were changed or something." He put a hand out to steady her as she tripped over a tent post struck deeply into the ground. Nodding her thanks she continued on, dodging through thick crowds and skirting campfires in an effort to keep up with their guide.
Eventually it became apparent that, in spite of the chaos, the camp had been laid out in a purposeful and practical design. The tents of the soldiers were in the outermost ring; followed by medical facilities, supply wagons, and the council arena. Everything seemed to be arranged into smaller groupings that filtered into a whole, eliminating any actual disorder that might have occurred. Seeing it, Goku gave an appreciative whistle. He was not the most intelligent of beings but he could recognize the work of a war veteran when he saw it.
"Who do you suppose is in charge here?" Usagi asked softly, her blue eyes darting across the lines of men and beasts that covered the plains.
"I don't know, but I think we're about to find out." The poultry- geist had stopped in front of a large tent near the center of the camp and was clucking loudly to the sets of guards surrounding the structure. After a few moments the men stepped aside and ushered the young woman and her companion inside.
"Lady Hel?" Goku stared in disbelief at the woman scribbling furiously at a desk in the first part of the tent. Her head snapped up at the sound of her name and she blinked confusedly at the two before breaking into a smile.
"Oh. Hello. I wasn't expecting you for another day or so." A faint frown touched her lips and she cocked her head, pigtails wagging. "Or maybe I was expecting you today. Do you happen to know what day it is?" The two shook their heads and she sighed. "Ah well, I suppose that's what I get when I send the commander off on a mission and offer to take over myself. Nothing but work."
"You mean you're not in charge?" Goku asked, obviously somewhat dismayed.
"Oh heavens no. Actually, Prince Vegeta is. I appointed him a few weeks ago.oh dear, you've no idea what's going on, do you?" They shook their heads in unison and Hel groaned. "Where do I start?"
"How about with the reason for our being here?" Usagi suggested helpfully.
"Right." Hel paused, glanced at the paperwork littering the desk and then back at her guests. "Vegeta can take care of all that when he gets back." She said at last, and stood up, stretching wearily. "Follow me, my temporary quarters are this way." Goku and Usagi followed her into a small antechamber that had been closed off from the rest of the tent by hanging curtains.
"Now, where to begin?" Hel sighed. "I suppose that first I should explain about the man who is our enemy, a man called the Guardian.
***
The light was fading from the sky when Vegeta arrived at the boundary that marked off Saiya-jin lands. There he stopped, landing lightly on the ground and staring out over the same structures that had dominated his childhood. For a long time he merely stood there, arms folded across his chest, eyes hard and black and distant. He could not bring himself to go any further.
Once he would have flown without even pausing to look at what was going on around him. In his arrogance he would have ignored anyone that came near, focusing wholly on the task at hand. Years had passed however, and he had not been fully among his own kind for so long he felt that he no longer truly knew how to act around them. So he stood there, cold, expressionless, his mind in turmoil as he sought an answer.
"Damn you Kakarot." He muttered under his breath, preparing to launch himself skyward. "You and your bloody humans."
It looked the same as it had when he had last seen it, proof that planets can enter the afterlife as surely as people. Buildings and cities covered the ground beneath him, rounded annexes and crowded training grounds fighting for space among private homes and masses of memories. No one saw him and he was careful to keep his power level low, not wanting to attract the attention he had once craved. In no time at all he was standing in front of his father's palace, staring into the faces of guards that were at once so much like himself, and so completely different.
"Move aside." He growled, shoving the Saiya-jins away so that he could pass. They came in behind him, spewing curses and spitting threats as they tried to stop his progress through the halls. It was almost too easy to avoid their flying fists and sharp blows.
"What is the meaning of this?" The voice brought Vegeta up short, stopping him so completely and so quickly that the guards collided with his solid back. As surprised as he was, they didn't even try to attack him.
"Hello father." Vegeta said, addressing the tall brown-haired man standing in the doorway. "I've come to ask a favor."
***
After leaving Lady Hel's chamber, Usagi did not go straight to the area of the camp where she had been told her friends would be. Instead she walked through the rows of tents thinking about what she had been told. Even now, knowing the truth of her world's destruction and understanding the evil of the Guardian, she could not comprehend going through yet another war. The very idea was beyond her.
How many wars like this have I seen? She thought to herself as she walked, her arms wrapped tightly around her torso. I thought it would be over when I died but now. Tears gathered in her eyes and she hastened to wipe them away before they could fall. I don't want to fight anymore. Why do I have to do anything anyway? Every time there's a war or someone trying to destroy us all I have to hurry up and try to save the world. I'm sick of it!
"Mama!" Usagi blinked, torn from her thoughts by the wail that rose up from a young girl who stood a few feet away. The girl was very small and seemed to be lost, her eyes wildly searching the crowds of people around her for her mother.
"What does your mama look like?" Usagi asked gently, crouching down in front of the child and taking her hand.
"She's tall and she has black hair and." The Queen watched helplessly as the child began to sob.
"Sssh. It's all right." She put an arm around the girl to soothe her. "Don't you worry, we'll find her." Standing up, she glanced around, trying to catch a glimpse of a dark-haired woman. "What's her name?"
"Merina." The girl sniffled, clinging to Usagi's hand with wild hope in her bleary eyes.
"Tasha? Tasha!" A tall woman with long black hair appeared, and the little girl leapt into her arms. The woman turned tear-filled eyes to Usagi. "Thank you." She whispered, and then she was gone, leaving the dead Queen of Crystal Tokyo alone.
If I don't fight, there won't even be children anymore, Usagi thought, a wave of guilt washing over her. There won't be an Otherworld, or even a World. Everything will be gone. Her blue eyes warmed then and she began making her way to the camp where she knew her senshi and her husband would be waiting for her. Maybe this will be the last time. Maybe after this it can finally be over, and we can rest.
***
Author's Note: Okay. I know that no one looks at Vegeta as having any real emotions save anger and biting sarcasm, but come on people, he does have feelings. After living with the destruction of his planet and his people for all this time, he has to be at least a little bit emotional when he finally sees his home again. You may not be accustomed to seeing it this way but if you'll note, he never says or really does anything against his character. I just popped a heart into him and made him act a little more human. If you think I overdid it or whatever, you can bring it up in your review.
As to his role as commander, let me point a few things out. First of all, he's the only one with any real battle experience save Goku, who, pardon me, but WHO THE HELL WOULD TRUST HIM WITH ANYTHING? Second of all, he may be arrogant and somewhat power hungry now and then, but since we lack better alternatives, he's the only one we're gonna use. So there.
The part with Usagi is yes, very corny and probably somewhat cliché. However, I figured it was the best way to reveal what she was thinking and how her thoughts change. If you have a better suggestion, again, I would be willing to hear it, but don't count on me taking your advice.
Sailor Ronin Usa-chan:
Hehe. Thanks for the review. I like it when people are actually amused by my rather quirky and offbeat humor. Thanks for the compliment on my metaphors and my descriptions. Those are probably the things I'm best at in my writing, since my dialogue tends to go on, and on, and on... Anyway, thank you very much for taking the time to review and I hope you enjoy the rest of the story.
Almaseti:
Thanks for the book suggestion. I'll look into it if I get the chance, but right now I'm kinda...we'll just say that money is a big object and I don't have it.
Grammatical errors: Blame Phèdre cuz she's my editor. She manages to clean most of it up but every now and then something slips by her. I'm not allowed to read what I write (sniffs) because I might delete it.
Oh, and about the thing with the dots, Phèdre says she'll fix that, cuz she's special.
Once again, thank you for your review. I really enjoy hearing from people. Bye Now.
Labyris:
You are still a monkey and in case you haven't noticed, you have not yet produced Hamlet. Therefore you are unworthy of praise...or a banana. Next Please.
Pointy Ears Are My Thing:
Okay, um. Yeah. First of all, I'm glad the character guide was helpful, since that's what it's for. There will be another one in the next part of the story to give details about characters during the war. Look for it in chapter one or something like that.
About your offer for editing, thanks but I already have an editor. Phèdre does my major editing and all that, seeing as she is super special and things like that.
Lastly, it's great that you were surprised by the Guardian's change of heart. It gives me a nice fuzzy feeling to know that my writing actually makes people feel anything but confused. Hehe.
Angry Review Reader:
YOU ARE AN IDIOT. That's really all I have to say about you. Did you not notice the fact that this is NOT Phèdre's story at all? Do I not say in the Author's notes that I am a different person, Sin, and that Phèdre is my editor? Obviously you didn't read any of the actual story or the Author's Notes, in which case you cannot judge my abilities. Also, It's not a free world. Get a clue. I sincerely hope that in one way or another this reaches your ears. Then maybe you'll take some time and actually figure out what's going on. OH yeah, and just for the record, Fuck You Too.
Neo-merc:
Oooh. A cool person. No, I'm not going to make fun of you. I only do that to idiots who can't leave a review to save their lives. (hint: Labyris) As to your fic-challenged brain, I hope you have some luck soon. If you post something I'll try and read it but there are no guarantees seeing as I, in all my glory, DON'T HAVE THE INTERNET. (sniffle)
Thank God you actually have half a brain. (grin) You say Phèdre flamed you eh? It's awesome that for once someone didn't get all offensive and pissy. You actually listened to what she was saying. Oh My God. You should be an example for all those idiots out there that whine and mumble (like Angry Review Reader) but have no idea what they are talking about. Yay.
From Phèdre, the EDITOR OF DOOM:
Hmmmmm...what to say, what to say. Well, happy bunny rocks, for one thing! Anyway, back at the ranch...leave good reviews. Unlike Labyris. And read AUTHOR'S NOTES. They are MUY MUY IMPORTANTE!!! That is all. Wheeeee!!!!!!!
Okay, this is the seriously revised version of chapter four. I wrote it at least a month ago but I couldn't stand it so I uh, well, I deleted the entire thing and decided to rewrite it from scratch. Hehe. I tend to do that quite often. Oh well, this is definitely better than what I had originally, so enjoy.
Disclaimer: I do not own any SM/DBZ characters. Now run along and be good little children, and for goodness sake don't try to eat any of the demonic minions, even if they insist that they aren't poisonous. Believe me, it isn't worth it.
***
Love, Demons, and Saving the Universe
Kismet gazed with haunted eyes at the lush green landscape that made up her domain, trying to find solace in the vine draped shadows of the forest. Birds fluttered down on silent wings from their perches, stabbing talons and beaks at the ground before disappearing once again. A faint smile touched her lips as she watched the intricate dance of wildlife crossing her path, but the smile faded quickly. With a weary sigh she began to walk down a well-worn path, her mind fixed on a far off destination.
She had not gone far when she sensed a presence nearby, hovering at the edge of her vision as though uncertain of his welcome. A gentle tug brought him out of the brush, blushing slightly and staring determinedly at his feet.
"Bardock." It was more than just his name. It was an invitation to tell her what was on his mind. Clearing his throat, the Saiya-jin looked warily up at her.
"I'm worried about you." Moments passed without a word and when his admission remained unchallenged, he straightened. "You've been distracted lately, and I can tell you've got something weighing heavily on you." He looked into her eyes for a few seconds, seeking an answer. "Won't you tell me what's wrong?"
"I.it's." Kismet shook her head.
"Kismet." Bardock's eyes narrowed and she bit off her denial before it left her lips. Looking at him she knew that if she didn't tell him he would find out on his own, and would resent having to search because she refused to answer. Her shoulders slumped slightly and she glanced away.
"Knowing the future is a curse more than a blessing. You know that." A shadow of memory passed across the surface of his eyes and he nodded, his mouth twisted into a wry smile.
"Yes. I know."
"Then you can understand how knowing the future can make you want to change it, even if you know that you're meddling with things better left alone." Again Bardock nodded, his eyes hardening as he began to see.
"What's going to happen?" He asked softly.
"If I don't do something." She shivered and wrapped her arms more tightly around her body. "If I don't act, everything will die. Not just the living realms but also the Otherworld will be destroyed. All the people, every life that has ever been will disappear." She closed her eyes. "It will be the end of all things."
Bardock stared at her silently; the shock in his eyes clue enough to what was going through his mind. He opened his mouth to speak, closed it, opened it again and licked his lips in an effort to collect his thoughts. Kismet watched him with understanding and sympathy on her face, waiting for him to come to terms with what she had said.
"Void?" He asked finally, and Kismet shook her head.
"If there were void, then the Lady of Hiatus would be able to harness it and keep the rest of us safe." She turned back to face him, a deep well of sorrow shadowing her gaze. "Bardock it will be more than void, it will be worse than that. I can't explain everything now but." she sighed. "I have to do something. Do you understand?"
"Yes." The Saiya-jin put an arm around her, letting her lean against his chest as she began to cry. "I understand." He did too, because once he had tried to do the same thing on a smaller scale. His only hope was that where he had failed, she would somehow succeed.
***
The Guardian had erected a tent in the army camp of the Fifth World, taking pride in the fact that he did not use any magic in its construction. Looking around at the other tents he smiled, enjoying the feeling of belonging that swelled in his chest. Gathering up his staff he began making his way toward the main tent.
"Is there enough room for one more?" He asked kindly, ducking into the tent. The two generals looked up in unison, regarding him in silence for a few moments. Llywelyn smiled coolly, his dark eyes revealing nothing in a handsome face that revealed even less.
"I think we can spare a little space." He said lazily. Beside him his partner Kaisha scowled, her pretty face twisted into an ugly expression as she opened her mouth to protest. Before she could utter a single syllable however, Llywelyn cut in once again. "After all, you are the leader." Kaisha's mouth snapped shut and she glared daggers at her associate before turning to the Guardian. Both men noticed with amusement as her face changed, melting her scowl into a sweet and charming smile.
"We were just discussing the best way to coordinate the armies for the invasion. I was wondering how you planned to get us all onto a battlefield together when we're on separate planets and the enemy is in another dimension altogether." There was an insult buried in the words and a thread of disgust in her voice but the Guardian only smiled.
"The armies will not be coordinated at all. I expect the Council will send several smaller groups out to engage our forces once they learn that we have mobilized. A small push at the Gate of the Dead and they should finally rise from their age-old stupor. If they are still as irritable as they were eight hundred years ago, they'll do their utmost to destroy us as soon as possible." Smiling widely, the Guardian folded his arms across his chest.
"You seem pretty happy for someone who just said we were all going to die." Kaisha, while trying to keep her voice light, still conveyed her annoyance and her disbelief through an arched eyebrow and a twisted smile.
"We are not all going to die." He replied. "Even if we do die, the deceased will simply become our army in the Otherworld, attacking the enemy from behind." He paused and his smile widened. "The Council won't stand a chance once I have them on two sides. As soon as we take Purgatory and Elysian they'll have to surrender."
"They could retreat to Hiatus." The Guardian returned his attention to Llywelyn, the slyer of the two.
"I am counting on it. If they go there they'll be trapped; the Lady controls the only portals and once I have control of her there will be no escape for them. They will be slaughtered like sheep."
"But how can you be sure that the Lady of Hiatus can be controlled? I've heard she's a real bitch."
"Come now, do you really believe everything you hear? Not all rumors can be trusted and I happen to know that it is a small matter to buy someone such as Lady Void. You really have no faith at all my dear." Leaning forward, the Guardian's smile vanished. "Do you really think that I would allow our forces to go into battle without having thought of all possible outcomes?"
Hearing this the silver-haired general smiled.
"I like the way you think."
"Why thank you." The Guardian turned to Kaisha, who was listening to the exchange with a frown. "Would you mind bringing us some refreshment dear? I find that this body isn't as young as it used to be and I am quite famished."
***
Juraviel couldn't help but shiver as he gazed up at the cold features of the woman he had loved for centuries, finding no comfort in her face. There was no sign of his beloved in the chilly eyes or stone-set features. It was as if her smile and her laughter had been swallowed up by the Lady Void, drowned in her indifference and stifled by her silence. It took all of his strength and resolve not to flee the room.
"You have asked for an audience Lady Kismet." The voice was toneless, as flat and dull as a gray stone. In response the slender ruler of Fate took a few steps forward, leaving the shadows along the wall and coming to stand before the dais.
"There is an important matter that I must speak of with you." Kismet took a deep breath, glancing at Juraviel. "It must be alone."
"Apparently you believe that you have more power here than you actually do. Juraviel leaves only at my request and I do not request that he leave me now." Void rose to her feet and began to walk down the dais. "If you have something to say to me you might as well say it while you still have the chance." She began to walk past Kismet, making her way toward the far door. For a few moments the Lady of Fate paused, hesitant.
"No, wait!" She darted after Void, an expression of desperation in her eyes. "You don't understand." Her fingers wrapped around Void's shoulder. "Please." It was a breathless plea, but it shook something in the Lady of Hiatus's cool demeanor. After a moment Void lowered her gaze and gave a faint nod.
"My Lady." Juraviel's voice trailed off as Void's eyes met his. He felt as though an icy fist had slammed into his gut. "Yes my Lady." He bowed his head and retreated, letting the wide doors shut soundly behind him.
Inside the room Void turned her gaze once more to Lady Kismet, the command in them as firm and brilliant as a whip crack.
"Now, what is it that you wish to tell me?"
***
"Juraviel?" Void wavered on her feet, looking pale as she made her way slowly down the hall. Her voice was weak as she called for her companion, her dearest friend, her love. "Juraviel, please."
He would have ignored her, could have, if she hadn't sounded so fragile. Wincing, Juraviel pulled away from the shadows along the walls and took a step toward her. Tears filled her eyes as she looked at him and she took a staggering step forward before falling into his arms.
"What is it?" He demanded. "What's wrong?" He could feel tears trickling down across his neck, could hear her sobs muffled against his shirt. "Please, tell me what's the matter? What did Kismet say to you?" She didn't answer him, merely cried against his chest and shook until he thought she was going to break. When she finally had shed her last tear she pulled away and looked up at him, a sick desperation in her eyes.
"Juraviel, do you love me?" She asked softly, her voice scarcely more than a whisper.
"Yes. Of course I love you." He watched, helpless as shadows crept across her face and she shuddered.
"And you trust me?" It felt as if everything was riding on his reply, and he took a moment to catch her gaze before answering.
"Always." She finally lowered her eyes and took a step away from him.
"Then don't ask me what she said." ***
Usagi and Goku stared at the massive army camp before them, their eyes wide with disbelief. Just ahead their skeletal friend clucked for them to hurry up, flapping his wings and clicking his bones together in irritation. They followed reluctantly after several moments of hesitation, now thoroughly unnerved.
"I thought we were going to the city." Usagi said in a half-whisper as they trailed behind the poultry-geist. In reply, Goku shrugged and waved a hand at the camp.
"Maybe his orders were changed or something." He put a hand out to steady her as she tripped over a tent post struck deeply into the ground. Nodding her thanks she continued on, dodging through thick crowds and skirting campfires in an effort to keep up with their guide.
Eventually it became apparent that, in spite of the chaos, the camp had been laid out in a purposeful and practical design. The tents of the soldiers were in the outermost ring; followed by medical facilities, supply wagons, and the council arena. Everything seemed to be arranged into smaller groupings that filtered into a whole, eliminating any actual disorder that might have occurred. Seeing it, Goku gave an appreciative whistle. He was not the most intelligent of beings but he could recognize the work of a war veteran when he saw it.
"Who do you suppose is in charge here?" Usagi asked softly, her blue eyes darting across the lines of men and beasts that covered the plains.
"I don't know, but I think we're about to find out." The poultry- geist had stopped in front of a large tent near the center of the camp and was clucking loudly to the sets of guards surrounding the structure. After a few moments the men stepped aside and ushered the young woman and her companion inside.
"Lady Hel?" Goku stared in disbelief at the woman scribbling furiously at a desk in the first part of the tent. Her head snapped up at the sound of her name and she blinked confusedly at the two before breaking into a smile.
"Oh. Hello. I wasn't expecting you for another day or so." A faint frown touched her lips and she cocked her head, pigtails wagging. "Or maybe I was expecting you today. Do you happen to know what day it is?" The two shook their heads and she sighed. "Ah well, I suppose that's what I get when I send the commander off on a mission and offer to take over myself. Nothing but work."
"You mean you're not in charge?" Goku asked, obviously somewhat dismayed.
"Oh heavens no. Actually, Prince Vegeta is. I appointed him a few weeks ago.oh dear, you've no idea what's going on, do you?" They shook their heads in unison and Hel groaned. "Where do I start?"
"How about with the reason for our being here?" Usagi suggested helpfully.
"Right." Hel paused, glanced at the paperwork littering the desk and then back at her guests. "Vegeta can take care of all that when he gets back." She said at last, and stood up, stretching wearily. "Follow me, my temporary quarters are this way." Goku and Usagi followed her into a small antechamber that had been closed off from the rest of the tent by hanging curtains.
"Now, where to begin?" Hel sighed. "I suppose that first I should explain about the man who is our enemy, a man called the Guardian.
***
The light was fading from the sky when Vegeta arrived at the boundary that marked off Saiya-jin lands. There he stopped, landing lightly on the ground and staring out over the same structures that had dominated his childhood. For a long time he merely stood there, arms folded across his chest, eyes hard and black and distant. He could not bring himself to go any further.
Once he would have flown without even pausing to look at what was going on around him. In his arrogance he would have ignored anyone that came near, focusing wholly on the task at hand. Years had passed however, and he had not been fully among his own kind for so long he felt that he no longer truly knew how to act around them. So he stood there, cold, expressionless, his mind in turmoil as he sought an answer.
"Damn you Kakarot." He muttered under his breath, preparing to launch himself skyward. "You and your bloody humans."
It looked the same as it had when he had last seen it, proof that planets can enter the afterlife as surely as people. Buildings and cities covered the ground beneath him, rounded annexes and crowded training grounds fighting for space among private homes and masses of memories. No one saw him and he was careful to keep his power level low, not wanting to attract the attention he had once craved. In no time at all he was standing in front of his father's palace, staring into the faces of guards that were at once so much like himself, and so completely different.
"Move aside." He growled, shoving the Saiya-jins away so that he could pass. They came in behind him, spewing curses and spitting threats as they tried to stop his progress through the halls. It was almost too easy to avoid their flying fists and sharp blows.
"What is the meaning of this?" The voice brought Vegeta up short, stopping him so completely and so quickly that the guards collided with his solid back. As surprised as he was, they didn't even try to attack him.
"Hello father." Vegeta said, addressing the tall brown-haired man standing in the doorway. "I've come to ask a favor."
***
After leaving Lady Hel's chamber, Usagi did not go straight to the area of the camp where she had been told her friends would be. Instead she walked through the rows of tents thinking about what she had been told. Even now, knowing the truth of her world's destruction and understanding the evil of the Guardian, she could not comprehend going through yet another war. The very idea was beyond her.
How many wars like this have I seen? She thought to herself as she walked, her arms wrapped tightly around her torso. I thought it would be over when I died but now. Tears gathered in her eyes and she hastened to wipe them away before they could fall. I don't want to fight anymore. Why do I have to do anything anyway? Every time there's a war or someone trying to destroy us all I have to hurry up and try to save the world. I'm sick of it!
"Mama!" Usagi blinked, torn from her thoughts by the wail that rose up from a young girl who stood a few feet away. The girl was very small and seemed to be lost, her eyes wildly searching the crowds of people around her for her mother.
"What does your mama look like?" Usagi asked gently, crouching down in front of the child and taking her hand.
"She's tall and she has black hair and." The Queen watched helplessly as the child began to sob.
"Sssh. It's all right." She put an arm around the girl to soothe her. "Don't you worry, we'll find her." Standing up, she glanced around, trying to catch a glimpse of a dark-haired woman. "What's her name?"
"Merina." The girl sniffled, clinging to Usagi's hand with wild hope in her bleary eyes.
"Tasha? Tasha!" A tall woman with long black hair appeared, and the little girl leapt into her arms. The woman turned tear-filled eyes to Usagi. "Thank you." She whispered, and then she was gone, leaving the dead Queen of Crystal Tokyo alone.
If I don't fight, there won't even be children anymore, Usagi thought, a wave of guilt washing over her. There won't be an Otherworld, or even a World. Everything will be gone. Her blue eyes warmed then and she began making her way to the camp where she knew her senshi and her husband would be waiting for her. Maybe this will be the last time. Maybe after this it can finally be over, and we can rest.
***
Author's Note: Okay. I know that no one looks at Vegeta as having any real emotions save anger and biting sarcasm, but come on people, he does have feelings. After living with the destruction of his planet and his people for all this time, he has to be at least a little bit emotional when he finally sees his home again. You may not be accustomed to seeing it this way but if you'll note, he never says or really does anything against his character. I just popped a heart into him and made him act a little more human. If you think I overdid it or whatever, you can bring it up in your review.
As to his role as commander, let me point a few things out. First of all, he's the only one with any real battle experience save Goku, who, pardon me, but WHO THE HELL WOULD TRUST HIM WITH ANYTHING? Second of all, he may be arrogant and somewhat power hungry now and then, but since we lack better alternatives, he's the only one we're gonna use. So there.
The part with Usagi is yes, very corny and probably somewhat cliché. However, I figured it was the best way to reveal what she was thinking and how her thoughts change. If you have a better suggestion, again, I would be willing to hear it, but don't count on me taking your advice.
Sailor Ronin Usa-chan:
Hehe. Thanks for the review. I like it when people are actually amused by my rather quirky and offbeat humor. Thanks for the compliment on my metaphors and my descriptions. Those are probably the things I'm best at in my writing, since my dialogue tends to go on, and on, and on... Anyway, thank you very much for taking the time to review and I hope you enjoy the rest of the story.
Almaseti:
Thanks for the book suggestion. I'll look into it if I get the chance, but right now I'm kinda...we'll just say that money is a big object and I don't have it.
Grammatical errors: Blame Phèdre cuz she's my editor. She manages to clean most of it up but every now and then something slips by her. I'm not allowed to read what I write (sniffs) because I might delete it.
Oh, and about the thing with the dots, Phèdre says she'll fix that, cuz she's special.
Once again, thank you for your review. I really enjoy hearing from people. Bye Now.
Labyris:
You are still a monkey and in case you haven't noticed, you have not yet produced Hamlet. Therefore you are unworthy of praise...or a banana. Next Please.
Pointy Ears Are My Thing:
Okay, um. Yeah. First of all, I'm glad the character guide was helpful, since that's what it's for. There will be another one in the next part of the story to give details about characters during the war. Look for it in chapter one or something like that.
About your offer for editing, thanks but I already have an editor. Phèdre does my major editing and all that, seeing as she is super special and things like that.
Lastly, it's great that you were surprised by the Guardian's change of heart. It gives me a nice fuzzy feeling to know that my writing actually makes people feel anything but confused. Hehe.
Angry Review Reader:
YOU ARE AN IDIOT. That's really all I have to say about you. Did you not notice the fact that this is NOT Phèdre's story at all? Do I not say in the Author's notes that I am a different person, Sin, and that Phèdre is my editor? Obviously you didn't read any of the actual story or the Author's Notes, in which case you cannot judge my abilities. Also, It's not a free world. Get a clue. I sincerely hope that in one way or another this reaches your ears. Then maybe you'll take some time and actually figure out what's going on. OH yeah, and just for the record, Fuck You Too.
Neo-merc:
Oooh. A cool person. No, I'm not going to make fun of you. I only do that to idiots who can't leave a review to save their lives. (hint: Labyris) As to your fic-challenged brain, I hope you have some luck soon. If you post something I'll try and read it but there are no guarantees seeing as I, in all my glory, DON'T HAVE THE INTERNET. (sniffle)
Thank God you actually have half a brain. (grin) You say Phèdre flamed you eh? It's awesome that for once someone didn't get all offensive and pissy. You actually listened to what she was saying. Oh My God. You should be an example for all those idiots out there that whine and mumble (like Angry Review Reader) but have no idea what they are talking about. Yay.
From Phèdre, the EDITOR OF DOOM:
Hmmmmm...what to say, what to say. Well, happy bunny rocks, for one thing! Anyway, back at the ranch...leave good reviews. Unlike Labyris. And read AUTHOR'S NOTES. They are MUY MUY IMPORTANTE!!! That is all. Wheeeee!!!!!!!