Episode 001: Possible Threat; The Mysterious Mage
He stood upon a cliff overlooking the forest below. Dust couldn't help but smile. He loved these cool, moonlit nights around his training area.
Dust: It's been awhile since I overlooked this area...I'd almost forgotten how beautiful it was...
With a quick leap into the air he was off into the sky like a jet. The Saiyan flew off into the starlit sky and immediately shot down towards the sparkling ocean. As he blazed over the surface his aura caused water to spray from both sides. He needed time to think and flying was the best remedy for that.
Dust: I've been such a jerk lately...*stops in midair, toe of shoe just touching the surface of the water* All these depressions and psycho spasms...this isn't me. I'm not - *pauses* I won't be like that. Not anymore...
For that one moment it seemed as if the very moon itself was looking down at him. He felt as if everyone he'd known in his past could see him and call out to him. Dust had lost a lot in his past and he remembered it all as clear as the very water before him. The memories were painful...but they were no excuse for how he had been acting.
Dust: I made a promise...and I will keep it...
He lowered his head, turning towards the land of Philo. Hovering still, words he did not even think to say came from his mouth. This was the moment he would seal his promise to Philo.
When darkness sweeps across your face
And you cannot see the light
Do not run; do not hide
Stand up and fight
If you cannot overcome this plague
You find it's too much to bear
Come and give me a call
Because I will always be there.
Dust smiled and flew off towards his training area, feeling like he had already made significant change in the last moment.
****
The next morning Dust found himself training as usual. His ki training was proving to be very useful, but he was still iffy about using SSJ4 Beyond. The rocky training area of his sustained itself as he powered up, flipping around and punching/kicking imaginary foes. He was rather excited because he was supposed to spar with Rae today.
Dust: KIYA! HA!! H- ...?
Someone was watching him from above and smirking. Dust stopped and stared upward, his eyes wide with confusion. This guy looked like an old man in a very funny looking cloak with a staff. Almost all of his fingers were equipped with a ring of a different colour. The old man hovered down and landed in front of Dust, smiling.
???: Hello there!
Dust: ...Can I help you? O_O
They stared at each other for a moment or so before the mage continued, shifting his staff with his hand. He looked like a tired out old man to Dust and his guess was that flying must've taken a lot out of him.
Ringmage: My name is Ringmage. I've heard many great things about this beautiful planet...and I would like to join you folks if you don't mind.
An odd request since Dust wasn't responsible for allowing people onto the planet or not. However, he was interested in finding out some more about this mage.
Dust: Well I really can't say yes or no *smirks*. Just out of curiosity though, what is your specialty? It's obvious that you know how to use your ki.
Ringmage: *smiles and swishes robe aside proudly, revealing jewelry and rings into the light of day* As my name would suggest, I am a user of many magical artifacts, mostly, of course, rings. However, do not underestimate my physical powers either.
With that said, Ringmage bowed politely and turned to leave. Dust just kind of stared after him not really knowing what to say.
Dust: Uh...bye? O_O
Ringmage: *turns back* Oh I almost forgot! *points to the east* Beyond that forest is where I dwell. When you fly you will see a tower in a large clearing. Do come visit me sometime and we can converse further...Mr-
Dust: My name is Dust and I welcome you to our home of Philo.
The old mage nodded and walked off into the distance. Dust looked down at his shoes thoughtfully for a split second, but the old mage was gone from sight when he looked back up.
Dust: What a weird guy...awfully polite though.
The Saiyan went back to his training, nearly decimating an entire cliff with a Kamehameha blast.
****
Ringmage stood tall and firm on the very top of his tower. This land was indeed a rich sight indeed. Its resources would be a special treat for his future plans.
This mage had a secret agenda...
Ringmage: If everyone is as stupid as that ape back there then this will be a piece of cake. This land called Philo has been unspoiled by the greed of mankind and I will take it for myself.
It took a lot of resources, energy, and life force to conjure up the most powerful of spells and magic weapons. Therefore, taking this place would be necessary.
Ringmage: Ahh...I can feel the excitement coming on. The only thing that could make this more delightful is a nice cup of tea and a good book.
A ring shimmered on his finger and the wizard disappeared, reappearing in an instant inside of his tower. The room he was in appeared to be a study. A fireplace emitted warm flames which kept the room feeling cozy. The bookcase leaned against the wall was packed so full of tomes, notes, and historic documents that some of them were piled on the floor. Ringmage smiled and held out his hand. A dusty, blue book flew towards him and he sat down in his purple plush chair. Reading was one of his favourite pastimes.
Especially when it dealt with how to cause pain and suffering. Ringmage loved watching people scream.
****
The wind was so cold up in the air that it felt almost as if it was biting at the skin. Their auras, whether visible or not, kept them warm. A spar was underway.
Dust: *smirks* You said you've done next to nothing *wipes a trickle of blood from nose* but I know you're being hard on yourself. You're a lot stronger than the last time we fought.
Rae charged in, her wings opening up. Dust flew back slightly as her fist collided with his gut in a quick attack. However, the Saiyan countered her with a spinning heel kick to her head.
Dust: HA! *foot connects with the side of her head*
The fight continued with each side exchanging blow after blow. Dust and Rae called it quits about 10 minutes later to take a break.
Dust: You're really good at this Rae! ^_^
Rae: Hmph...being a vampire has its advantages you know.
Without warning, the Saiyan lanced out his hands and fired a mini- kamehameha towards Rae. Her expression remained blank as she side stepped it easily. The blast edged upwards and blew apart a cliff, causing the rocks to fall into a cluttered pile on the ground below.
Rae: *looks up at the cliff, not able to contain laughter as the rocks fall down, making loud clunking noises* Hahahaha XD!
She found herself sprawling to the ground and skidding on her back as Dust flew in and landed a head butt on her gut while she wasn't looking. It didn't faze her too much though. Rae could take a great deal of pain since she was a vampire.
Rae: Heeeeey! _
Dust: *grins and stands ready* That would be what we call a cheapshot nowadays! ^_^
****
They had parted ways earlier that day. It was now night and Dust was ready to go visit the new guy who called himself Ringmage. He was hoping he didn't miss the tower as he flew over the forest and some towering cliffs.
Dust: Hmm...he pointed this way! So where is it?!
Frustration began to take over as Dust couldn't find the tower anywhere. However, as if by some act of fate the tower began to shine in the distance. Dust could easily see it now and he flew towards it.
Dust: Whoa! Do you suppose he knows I'm coming? O_O
His tail wrapped around his waist as he dropped down to the grass below. The tower entrance was wide open for anyone to enter, which Dust found slightly odd. The tower itself seemed to have many stairs going up and a set going into a basement.
Dust: *starts running up the stairs* Whew...this guy must have a hard time getting groceries!
Flying was a lot faster and easier. Dust began to fly up the spiraling staircase, not bothering to stop and check out the other rooms. When he finally reached a room near the top floor he could hear a voice from behind a door. Dust stopped and stepped over to the door without opening it. He could make out Ringmage's voice easily and tell exactly what the mage was saying.
Ringmage: My oh my...this place is so cluttered! *the sound of books being slid across the ground and a table being moved along the floor can be heard*
The Saiyan felt bad eavesdropping and was about to open the door but stopped when he heard Ringmage speak again. Dust had no idea if the mage was speaking to someone else or himself.
Ringmage: Those poor fools...heh heh heh! The more I think about it, the more I want to laugh until I can breathe no more!
Dust: ...*thinking: What...?*
His voice was no longer bright and chipper, as Dust had remembered it. It was now full of cold malice.
Ringmage: Once I purge this planet of its resources and kill off these filthy vermin, I'll-
BAM!
Ringmage: ?! *turns frantically*
His tail wrapped tightly around his waist as he entered the room. Ringmage looked surprised to see his red furred guest just barge in like that but he smirked and made his way to his purple plush chair. He sat down and began looking through his book which was titled "The Necromancer."
Ringmage: Hello Dust! What a pleasant surprise! To what do I owe the honour?
Dust: *growls* Don't talk trash with me old man...I heard every word of what you just said and I'm not impressed.
He'd wanted to avoid this but obviously the ape was a tad smarter than he looked. Ringmage sneered heavily and stood up, placing his book down, slipping one of his rings inside of it to save the page.
Ringmage: Well I'll be! You're not impressed, are you?! Well there isn't really anything you can do about it! *points accusingly at Dust as if he just won a game of Clue*
Dust was beginning to get fed up with this guy and he stood ready.
Dust: Well then...if you're such an evil bastard then let's have a fight for it.
This action caused Ringmage to snicker with amusement. Dust merely growled and tightened his stance. The wizard sighed and circled his chair absentmindedly. He turned and stared towards the window of his tower which led out to the balcony.
Ringmage: Now Dust, I don't think you would much like fighting against me. After all I am the essence of evil.
Dust: *smirks* Haven't you ever heard that good always triumphs over evil?
A glare formed on the wizard's face and he stared at the Saiyan. His fist was clenched and he growled with annoyance.
Ringmage: That all depends on your interpretation of good and evil. However I have no interest in hearing your thoughts on anything...so...off with you!
Before Dust could even react, Ringmage's hand slipped up to a chain around his neck. The second his fingers came into contact with the cold metal, Dust felt himself being lifted by an unknown force, and carried out the door and down the stairs.
Dust: !!! H...Hey!! *struggles against it* _
Ringmage: Now now Dust...everyone is supreme in their own element. Besides, this tower is mine! And I want you out! *oak door slams shut as Dust is airlifted down the stairs by the invisible magic force*
With a sigh of relief, Ringmage sat down in the solitude of his study. The annoyance was gone and now he could read his book, which was now going into detail about how to make an incision on your victim without making too much of a mess.
Ringmage: Ooh...I love this part...*moves closer to the book, reading deeply*
****
This was ridiculous. He couldn't move and now he was being carried out the front door by...nothing!!
Dust: Where the heck are you taking me- UWAHHHH!!!!
He was sent flying from what felt like a metal boot to the rear. He literally flew over the cliffs and forest he'd passed over to get to the tower itself. Without being able to stop himself, Dust landed hard on the beach sand near his training area. He was almost speechless. It had taken him nearly half an hour to fly over there and that magic spell had booted him back here in about 10 seconds.
Dust: Crud _ *stands up slowly, brushing self off* Well, at least I can move now.
His gaze turned back towards the tower. It was far away now and out of sight, but Dust felt as though he was still there. That mage had been serious and now Philo was in danger. It made him ignore the fact that he was covered in sand.
Dust: This guy could be a problem...*walks away, thinking*
It was probably past midnight before Dust decided to call it a night and sleep in his training area where he always dwelled. His thoughts were focused on Ringmage now. After experiencing the power of that spell he had experienced when getting exported from the tower, Dust knew this wizard had power. He would have to warn the others about the possible danger.
Dust: Just need to sleep...*closes eyes, resting head on arms, sleeping underneath the now dimly moonlit sky*
He stood upon a cliff overlooking the forest below. Dust couldn't help but smile. He loved these cool, moonlit nights around his training area.
Dust: It's been awhile since I overlooked this area...I'd almost forgotten how beautiful it was...
With a quick leap into the air he was off into the sky like a jet. The Saiyan flew off into the starlit sky and immediately shot down towards the sparkling ocean. As he blazed over the surface his aura caused water to spray from both sides. He needed time to think and flying was the best remedy for that.
Dust: I've been such a jerk lately...*stops in midair, toe of shoe just touching the surface of the water* All these depressions and psycho spasms...this isn't me. I'm not - *pauses* I won't be like that. Not anymore...
For that one moment it seemed as if the very moon itself was looking down at him. He felt as if everyone he'd known in his past could see him and call out to him. Dust had lost a lot in his past and he remembered it all as clear as the very water before him. The memories were painful...but they were no excuse for how he had been acting.
Dust: I made a promise...and I will keep it...
He lowered his head, turning towards the land of Philo. Hovering still, words he did not even think to say came from his mouth. This was the moment he would seal his promise to Philo.
When darkness sweeps across your face
And you cannot see the light
Do not run; do not hide
Stand up and fight
If you cannot overcome this plague
You find it's too much to bear
Come and give me a call
Because I will always be there.
Dust smiled and flew off towards his training area, feeling like he had already made significant change in the last moment.
****
The next morning Dust found himself training as usual. His ki training was proving to be very useful, but he was still iffy about using SSJ4 Beyond. The rocky training area of his sustained itself as he powered up, flipping around and punching/kicking imaginary foes. He was rather excited because he was supposed to spar with Rae today.
Dust: KIYA! HA!! H- ...?
Someone was watching him from above and smirking. Dust stopped and stared upward, his eyes wide with confusion. This guy looked like an old man in a very funny looking cloak with a staff. Almost all of his fingers were equipped with a ring of a different colour. The old man hovered down and landed in front of Dust, smiling.
???: Hello there!
Dust: ...Can I help you? O_O
They stared at each other for a moment or so before the mage continued, shifting his staff with his hand. He looked like a tired out old man to Dust and his guess was that flying must've taken a lot out of him.
Ringmage: My name is Ringmage. I've heard many great things about this beautiful planet...and I would like to join you folks if you don't mind.
An odd request since Dust wasn't responsible for allowing people onto the planet or not. However, he was interested in finding out some more about this mage.
Dust: Well I really can't say yes or no *smirks*. Just out of curiosity though, what is your specialty? It's obvious that you know how to use your ki.
Ringmage: *smiles and swishes robe aside proudly, revealing jewelry and rings into the light of day* As my name would suggest, I am a user of many magical artifacts, mostly, of course, rings. However, do not underestimate my physical powers either.
With that said, Ringmage bowed politely and turned to leave. Dust just kind of stared after him not really knowing what to say.
Dust: Uh...bye? O_O
Ringmage: *turns back* Oh I almost forgot! *points to the east* Beyond that forest is where I dwell. When you fly you will see a tower in a large clearing. Do come visit me sometime and we can converse further...Mr-
Dust: My name is Dust and I welcome you to our home of Philo.
The old mage nodded and walked off into the distance. Dust looked down at his shoes thoughtfully for a split second, but the old mage was gone from sight when he looked back up.
Dust: What a weird guy...awfully polite though.
The Saiyan went back to his training, nearly decimating an entire cliff with a Kamehameha blast.
****
Ringmage stood tall and firm on the very top of his tower. This land was indeed a rich sight indeed. Its resources would be a special treat for his future plans.
This mage had a secret agenda...
Ringmage: If everyone is as stupid as that ape back there then this will be a piece of cake. This land called Philo has been unspoiled by the greed of mankind and I will take it for myself.
It took a lot of resources, energy, and life force to conjure up the most powerful of spells and magic weapons. Therefore, taking this place would be necessary.
Ringmage: Ahh...I can feel the excitement coming on. The only thing that could make this more delightful is a nice cup of tea and a good book.
A ring shimmered on his finger and the wizard disappeared, reappearing in an instant inside of his tower. The room he was in appeared to be a study. A fireplace emitted warm flames which kept the room feeling cozy. The bookcase leaned against the wall was packed so full of tomes, notes, and historic documents that some of them were piled on the floor. Ringmage smiled and held out his hand. A dusty, blue book flew towards him and he sat down in his purple plush chair. Reading was one of his favourite pastimes.
Especially when it dealt with how to cause pain and suffering. Ringmage loved watching people scream.
****
The wind was so cold up in the air that it felt almost as if it was biting at the skin. Their auras, whether visible or not, kept them warm. A spar was underway.
Dust: *smirks* You said you've done next to nothing *wipes a trickle of blood from nose* but I know you're being hard on yourself. You're a lot stronger than the last time we fought.
Rae charged in, her wings opening up. Dust flew back slightly as her fist collided with his gut in a quick attack. However, the Saiyan countered her with a spinning heel kick to her head.
Dust: HA! *foot connects with the side of her head*
The fight continued with each side exchanging blow after blow. Dust and Rae called it quits about 10 minutes later to take a break.
Dust: You're really good at this Rae! ^_^
Rae: Hmph...being a vampire has its advantages you know.
Without warning, the Saiyan lanced out his hands and fired a mini- kamehameha towards Rae. Her expression remained blank as she side stepped it easily. The blast edged upwards and blew apart a cliff, causing the rocks to fall into a cluttered pile on the ground below.
Rae: *looks up at the cliff, not able to contain laughter as the rocks fall down, making loud clunking noises* Hahahaha XD!
She found herself sprawling to the ground and skidding on her back as Dust flew in and landed a head butt on her gut while she wasn't looking. It didn't faze her too much though. Rae could take a great deal of pain since she was a vampire.
Rae: Heeeeey! _
Dust: *grins and stands ready* That would be what we call a cheapshot nowadays! ^_^
****
They had parted ways earlier that day. It was now night and Dust was ready to go visit the new guy who called himself Ringmage. He was hoping he didn't miss the tower as he flew over the forest and some towering cliffs.
Dust: Hmm...he pointed this way! So where is it?!
Frustration began to take over as Dust couldn't find the tower anywhere. However, as if by some act of fate the tower began to shine in the distance. Dust could easily see it now and he flew towards it.
Dust: Whoa! Do you suppose he knows I'm coming? O_O
His tail wrapped around his waist as he dropped down to the grass below. The tower entrance was wide open for anyone to enter, which Dust found slightly odd. The tower itself seemed to have many stairs going up and a set going into a basement.
Dust: *starts running up the stairs* Whew...this guy must have a hard time getting groceries!
Flying was a lot faster and easier. Dust began to fly up the spiraling staircase, not bothering to stop and check out the other rooms. When he finally reached a room near the top floor he could hear a voice from behind a door. Dust stopped and stepped over to the door without opening it. He could make out Ringmage's voice easily and tell exactly what the mage was saying.
Ringmage: My oh my...this place is so cluttered! *the sound of books being slid across the ground and a table being moved along the floor can be heard*
The Saiyan felt bad eavesdropping and was about to open the door but stopped when he heard Ringmage speak again. Dust had no idea if the mage was speaking to someone else or himself.
Ringmage: Those poor fools...heh heh heh! The more I think about it, the more I want to laugh until I can breathe no more!
Dust: ...*thinking: What...?*
His voice was no longer bright and chipper, as Dust had remembered it. It was now full of cold malice.
Ringmage: Once I purge this planet of its resources and kill off these filthy vermin, I'll-
BAM!
Ringmage: ?! *turns frantically*
His tail wrapped tightly around his waist as he entered the room. Ringmage looked surprised to see his red furred guest just barge in like that but he smirked and made his way to his purple plush chair. He sat down and began looking through his book which was titled "The Necromancer."
Ringmage: Hello Dust! What a pleasant surprise! To what do I owe the honour?
Dust: *growls* Don't talk trash with me old man...I heard every word of what you just said and I'm not impressed.
He'd wanted to avoid this but obviously the ape was a tad smarter than he looked. Ringmage sneered heavily and stood up, placing his book down, slipping one of his rings inside of it to save the page.
Ringmage: Well I'll be! You're not impressed, are you?! Well there isn't really anything you can do about it! *points accusingly at Dust as if he just won a game of Clue*
Dust was beginning to get fed up with this guy and he stood ready.
Dust: Well then...if you're such an evil bastard then let's have a fight for it.
This action caused Ringmage to snicker with amusement. Dust merely growled and tightened his stance. The wizard sighed and circled his chair absentmindedly. He turned and stared towards the window of his tower which led out to the balcony.
Ringmage: Now Dust, I don't think you would much like fighting against me. After all I am the essence of evil.
Dust: *smirks* Haven't you ever heard that good always triumphs over evil?
A glare formed on the wizard's face and he stared at the Saiyan. His fist was clenched and he growled with annoyance.
Ringmage: That all depends on your interpretation of good and evil. However I have no interest in hearing your thoughts on anything...so...off with you!
Before Dust could even react, Ringmage's hand slipped up to a chain around his neck. The second his fingers came into contact with the cold metal, Dust felt himself being lifted by an unknown force, and carried out the door and down the stairs.
Dust: !!! H...Hey!! *struggles against it* _
Ringmage: Now now Dust...everyone is supreme in their own element. Besides, this tower is mine! And I want you out! *oak door slams shut as Dust is airlifted down the stairs by the invisible magic force*
With a sigh of relief, Ringmage sat down in the solitude of his study. The annoyance was gone and now he could read his book, which was now going into detail about how to make an incision on your victim without making too much of a mess.
Ringmage: Ooh...I love this part...*moves closer to the book, reading deeply*
****
This was ridiculous. He couldn't move and now he was being carried out the front door by...nothing!!
Dust: Where the heck are you taking me- UWAHHHH!!!!
He was sent flying from what felt like a metal boot to the rear. He literally flew over the cliffs and forest he'd passed over to get to the tower itself. Without being able to stop himself, Dust landed hard on the beach sand near his training area. He was almost speechless. It had taken him nearly half an hour to fly over there and that magic spell had booted him back here in about 10 seconds.
Dust: Crud _ *stands up slowly, brushing self off* Well, at least I can move now.
His gaze turned back towards the tower. It was far away now and out of sight, but Dust felt as though he was still there. That mage had been serious and now Philo was in danger. It made him ignore the fact that he was covered in sand.
Dust: This guy could be a problem...*walks away, thinking*
It was probably past midnight before Dust decided to call it a night and sleep in his training area where he always dwelled. His thoughts were focused on Ringmage now. After experiencing the power of that spell he had experienced when getting exported from the tower, Dust knew this wizard had power. He would have to warn the others about the possible danger.
Dust: Just need to sleep...*closes eyes, resting head on arms, sleeping underneath the now dimly moonlit sky*