Episode 002: Offer Of Alliance
Two days had passed since that other night. Dust had thought of almost nothing else ever since. The tower seemed to have a mind of its own, fully capable of keeping intruders out. Dust had decided not to go back and give it another go at breaking and entering. He was going to wait and see what the antagonizing madman inside had planned...
Dust: I've never even seen this guy before. *stares into the flames of a fire I've made with fish skewered on a stick over it*
There were so many questions that begged to be answered. Where had this guy come from? The mage had hinted that he was from another planet and that he specialized in magic, artifacts etc. Dust didn't care about any of that a great deal, but he was concerned for his home and his friends. Ringmage had mentioned something along the lines of domination over Philo. It was obvious that he had the power to back up his threats.
Dust: *sighs, standing up and holding out hand, concentrating energy and creating a gust of wind to blow out the fire* Well I guess it isn't exactly healthy to be thinking about this all the time. Oh well, chow time! *picks up the stick and starts munching on the fried fish, 2 more awaiting him on the stick when he finishes the first one* Mmm...^_^
!!!
His dinner was interrupted by a strong energy signature coming slowly towards his training area. Dust quickly set the stick with the fish back down over the smoking embers that remained of his fire. The ki was beginning to pick up speed as it flamed into Dust's training area. He knew right away who it was on first sight of the intruder's face (even in the dark).
Ringmage: Ahh...lovely night...*lands softly on the ground, staff held in right hand*
Dust stared with next to no interest at the old mage. He had no idea the bastard would be coming here. But since he was here...was there a purpose?
Dust: ...*turns away and stares off towards the ocean*
Ringmage: *is dead set on having his full attention* So, Dust...which ring looks better: The yellow or the black? *flashes left hand quickly so that he can see*
The Saiyan's tail wrapped around his own waist tightly, just as it did in most tense situations. The eyes of Ringmage diverted to it right away, staring with great interest.
Dust: It's hard to say. I never was one for jewelry...
Ringmage smirked heavily. He held his hand out once again, extending his index finger which was decorated with the black ring. Dust glanced at it, blinking.
Ringmage: Well, here's what the first one does!
Without warning a blast erupted around Dust, engulfing his body in dark flames of ki. Ringmage grinned with satisfaction and lowered his arm. The Saiyan was going to burn to a crisp.
Ringmage: Heh heh heh.......?!
The flames faded away, the smoke clearing. Dust stood his ground glaring. His fur had been singed and a cut had opened on his cheek, a tiny trickle of blood escaping it. He stood a few inches shorter since the ground below him had gave way from the blast slightly. Dust casually wiped the blood on his cheek away with his thumb. As if nothing had happened, he stepped out of the hole and stood across from the astonished Ringmage once again, and spoke without even acknowledging what had just happened.
Dust: Are you here to play around? *glaring* Or do you actually have some business in my training ground?
Ringmage: Well Dust...I've come to congratulate you.
Dust: ...*raises an eyebrow* ...On what?
A friendly smile formed on the wizard's face. Though he showed no reaction, Dust felt uneasy by it.
Ringmage: Well, I just wanted to tell you how much I admire your strength. I don't think there's "ANYONE" on Philo who could beat you, could they?
A mocking laugh escaped the wizard's mouth as he grinned with excitement at the Saiyan's glares. He would have to come by and tick Dust off more often.
Dust: *sighs and laughs* You obviously haven't looked around...I'm sure there are plenty of people around here who can beat me.
The wizard stared blankly, his jaw dropped a bit. He certainly hoped this wasn't true. One annoyance was bad enough, but several others could lead to problems. However, he had total confidence in himself. Nothing had ever opposed him and lived.
Ringmage: Oh...*blushes slightly, and then growls angrily, voice rising rapidly* Of course I've looked, you fool! I was making a joke but of course you lack the knowledge to understand it!
Dust: ...
Ringmage: *ahem* But now...on to business. I would-
Dust: *cuts in* I have no interest in your "business" Ringmage. Whatever it is you want, shove it...
Without any interest in what the old coot was saying, Dust turned back to his training. He began throwing rapid fire punches into the air. Ringmage stared, astonished. No one ever turned their back to him!
Ringmage: Rrr...
His hands withdrew from his cloak, his staff still in his right hand. With his free hand, he casually twisted a ring on his finger of the hand that held his staff. Almost immediately a loud screech erupted from all directions. This got Dust's attention, causing him to duck down and spin around with his fists ready. Ringmage couldn't help but laugh at the frantic reaction of the Saiyan.
Ringmage: There, now that I have your attention, here is what I have to say.
Dust: -_-
Clearing his throat, Ringmage spoke. His voice was friendly and gentle once again compared to the original harsh yelling from before.
Ringmage: You see, I have been searching for suitable allies on this planet that you call Earth. This region of Philo seems like the ideal place to recruit some partners. Basically, what I'm trying to say is...I was hoping that you and I might, as they say, become friends?
An innocent smile formed on his face. Perhaps this could make things easier on him. However, Dust didn't budge from his position. Saiyans were good at being stubborn, even in times when it wasn't necessary.
Dust: I have no interest in helping you achieve control over my home. I mean come on, what would my brother think of me if I betrayed everyone for an Alphabits cereal rip off like you? (referring to the weird wizard guy who used to appear on the box but mysteriously disappeared O_O)
Ringmage began to grow angry. His patience was wearing thin and this monkey wasn't helping. In a way he was relieved because he wouldn't want to work with this dirty creature for even a minute.
Ringmage: You had best not spurn my friendship Dust! I am a powerful friend, but a fearsome enemy! You seem to have the utmost confidence in yourself and that will lead you to your demise! Do not underestimate my power!
A dim aura of energy began to form around Ringmage's body, his cloak rippling in the energy. However, he began to calm down immediately. He wasn't going to let his anger get the best of him.
Dust: So, you do plan on making a move to take over Philo, correct?
The Saiyan hadn't bothered defending his own strength against that last comment. This made Ringmage wonder because Saiyans were known for their blinding pride. It was a huge disadvantage in battle.
Ringmage: *regains composure, steadying self on staff* Well...it all depends...
A harsh chill blew between them both, causing Dust's hair to wave in the wind. He crossed his arms and smirked at the old wizard.
Ringmage: *narrows eyes* You going to fight me if I say yes?
That one required some thought. Even though Dust had Saiyan blood running through his veins which gave him the urge to fight every chance he had, this was different. Despite the fact that he despised Ringmage for his threats, he had no interest in beating the old man up.
Dust: No, I'll just say this.
Ringmage: *growls* What do you have to say to me, you monkey?
Dust: *stares up at the sky, gaze directed at the stars* Many others have tried to invade our home. The place we call Philo. They all failed...and you'll fail too.
This wasn't what he had expected. Entire worlds had shivered at the sound of his name and this stupid Saiyan wasn't afraid at all. It was to be expected though. This planet had never had a taste of Ringmage's power, but it would soon enough.
Ringmage: Stupid Saiyan...you obviously have no idea who you are dealing with!
Dust: ...?! *thinking: He knows I'm a Saiyan?*
Ringmage: *Grins* That's right...I know what you are. You're but a filthy Saiyan, the dim-witted destroyers of the Universe. I've been around far longer than you have and I know more than you could ever dream of knowing.
This comment made Dust clench his fists and lower his arms to his sides. Not all Saiyans were barbaric and monstrous as the ones of the past had been. Dust had heard stories from people amongst Philo over the last couple of years and even had his fair share of meeting some nasty Saiyans himself.
Dust: Well I guess we're on equal ground when it comes to knowledge. It's obvious you have no idea of the power that we all possess.
The argument was beginning to amuse the mage. He enjoyed a good debate, especially with someone who wasn't nearly as intelligent as he was in philosophy and history.
Ringmage: The power of all? Well then, tell me...what is the power of one?
Dust knew right away that this was pointless. Ringmage was just trying to get him to lose his temper and Dust wasn't about to play along with any mind games.
Dust: The power of one is strongest when combined with the power of all. Remember that...
Without anything more to say, Dust turned and walked off into the darkness of the night towards the forest. Ringmage could've easily attacked him from behind but decided against it. He would let the Saiyan have peace...
For now...
Ringmage: You'll pay for your words Saiyan. *ignores the chilling winds which cause tiny rocks to roll down the sides of the training area* Yes...you'll pay...with the blood of your loved ones!
****
The forest provided shelter against the chilling winds. Feeling exhaustion wash over him, Dust found a soft spot under a tree and allowed his body to collapse onto it. His thoughts drifted from thinking about Ringmage to other things.
Dust: Sleep is good...I should go...see...Avalik...*closes eyes*
The verbal fight with Ringmage had been more tiring than any type of physical training. However, Dust had a gut feeling there would be more of them, especially if the old wizard was totally serious about his domination plan.
More than anything right now Dust wanted to be with Avalik. They had been dating for a few months now and he hadn't seen her in a while. Training all the time had its disadvantages.
Dust: *sighs and falls asleep* -_-
****
Two days had passed since that other night. Dust had thought of almost nothing else ever since. The tower seemed to have a mind of its own, fully capable of keeping intruders out. Dust had decided not to go back and give it another go at breaking and entering. He was going to wait and see what the antagonizing madman inside had planned...
Dust: I've never even seen this guy before. *stares into the flames of a fire I've made with fish skewered on a stick over it*
There were so many questions that begged to be answered. Where had this guy come from? The mage had hinted that he was from another planet and that he specialized in magic, artifacts etc. Dust didn't care about any of that a great deal, but he was concerned for his home and his friends. Ringmage had mentioned something along the lines of domination over Philo. It was obvious that he had the power to back up his threats.
Dust: *sighs, standing up and holding out hand, concentrating energy and creating a gust of wind to blow out the fire* Well I guess it isn't exactly healthy to be thinking about this all the time. Oh well, chow time! *picks up the stick and starts munching on the fried fish, 2 more awaiting him on the stick when he finishes the first one* Mmm...^_^
!!!
His dinner was interrupted by a strong energy signature coming slowly towards his training area. Dust quickly set the stick with the fish back down over the smoking embers that remained of his fire. The ki was beginning to pick up speed as it flamed into Dust's training area. He knew right away who it was on first sight of the intruder's face (even in the dark).
Ringmage: Ahh...lovely night...*lands softly on the ground, staff held in right hand*
Dust stared with next to no interest at the old mage. He had no idea the bastard would be coming here. But since he was here...was there a purpose?
Dust: ...*turns away and stares off towards the ocean*
Ringmage: *is dead set on having his full attention* So, Dust...which ring looks better: The yellow or the black? *flashes left hand quickly so that he can see*
The Saiyan's tail wrapped around his own waist tightly, just as it did in most tense situations. The eyes of Ringmage diverted to it right away, staring with great interest.
Dust: It's hard to say. I never was one for jewelry...
Ringmage smirked heavily. He held his hand out once again, extending his index finger which was decorated with the black ring. Dust glanced at it, blinking.
Ringmage: Well, here's what the first one does!
Without warning a blast erupted around Dust, engulfing his body in dark flames of ki. Ringmage grinned with satisfaction and lowered his arm. The Saiyan was going to burn to a crisp.
Ringmage: Heh heh heh.......?!
The flames faded away, the smoke clearing. Dust stood his ground glaring. His fur had been singed and a cut had opened on his cheek, a tiny trickle of blood escaping it. He stood a few inches shorter since the ground below him had gave way from the blast slightly. Dust casually wiped the blood on his cheek away with his thumb. As if nothing had happened, he stepped out of the hole and stood across from the astonished Ringmage once again, and spoke without even acknowledging what had just happened.
Dust: Are you here to play around? *glaring* Or do you actually have some business in my training ground?
Ringmage: Well Dust...I've come to congratulate you.
Dust: ...*raises an eyebrow* ...On what?
A friendly smile formed on the wizard's face. Though he showed no reaction, Dust felt uneasy by it.
Ringmage: Well, I just wanted to tell you how much I admire your strength. I don't think there's "ANYONE" on Philo who could beat you, could they?
A mocking laugh escaped the wizard's mouth as he grinned with excitement at the Saiyan's glares. He would have to come by and tick Dust off more often.
Dust: *sighs and laughs* You obviously haven't looked around...I'm sure there are plenty of people around here who can beat me.
The wizard stared blankly, his jaw dropped a bit. He certainly hoped this wasn't true. One annoyance was bad enough, but several others could lead to problems. However, he had total confidence in himself. Nothing had ever opposed him and lived.
Ringmage: Oh...*blushes slightly, and then growls angrily, voice rising rapidly* Of course I've looked, you fool! I was making a joke but of course you lack the knowledge to understand it!
Dust: ...
Ringmage: *ahem* But now...on to business. I would-
Dust: *cuts in* I have no interest in your "business" Ringmage. Whatever it is you want, shove it...
Without any interest in what the old coot was saying, Dust turned back to his training. He began throwing rapid fire punches into the air. Ringmage stared, astonished. No one ever turned their back to him!
Ringmage: Rrr...
His hands withdrew from his cloak, his staff still in his right hand. With his free hand, he casually twisted a ring on his finger of the hand that held his staff. Almost immediately a loud screech erupted from all directions. This got Dust's attention, causing him to duck down and spin around with his fists ready. Ringmage couldn't help but laugh at the frantic reaction of the Saiyan.
Ringmage: There, now that I have your attention, here is what I have to say.
Dust: -_-
Clearing his throat, Ringmage spoke. His voice was friendly and gentle once again compared to the original harsh yelling from before.
Ringmage: You see, I have been searching for suitable allies on this planet that you call Earth. This region of Philo seems like the ideal place to recruit some partners. Basically, what I'm trying to say is...I was hoping that you and I might, as they say, become friends?
An innocent smile formed on his face. Perhaps this could make things easier on him. However, Dust didn't budge from his position. Saiyans were good at being stubborn, even in times when it wasn't necessary.
Dust: I have no interest in helping you achieve control over my home. I mean come on, what would my brother think of me if I betrayed everyone for an Alphabits cereal rip off like you? (referring to the weird wizard guy who used to appear on the box but mysteriously disappeared O_O)
Ringmage began to grow angry. His patience was wearing thin and this monkey wasn't helping. In a way he was relieved because he wouldn't want to work with this dirty creature for even a minute.
Ringmage: You had best not spurn my friendship Dust! I am a powerful friend, but a fearsome enemy! You seem to have the utmost confidence in yourself and that will lead you to your demise! Do not underestimate my power!
A dim aura of energy began to form around Ringmage's body, his cloak rippling in the energy. However, he began to calm down immediately. He wasn't going to let his anger get the best of him.
Dust: So, you do plan on making a move to take over Philo, correct?
The Saiyan hadn't bothered defending his own strength against that last comment. This made Ringmage wonder because Saiyans were known for their blinding pride. It was a huge disadvantage in battle.
Ringmage: *regains composure, steadying self on staff* Well...it all depends...
A harsh chill blew between them both, causing Dust's hair to wave in the wind. He crossed his arms and smirked at the old wizard.
Ringmage: *narrows eyes* You going to fight me if I say yes?
That one required some thought. Even though Dust had Saiyan blood running through his veins which gave him the urge to fight every chance he had, this was different. Despite the fact that he despised Ringmage for his threats, he had no interest in beating the old man up.
Dust: No, I'll just say this.
Ringmage: *growls* What do you have to say to me, you monkey?
Dust: *stares up at the sky, gaze directed at the stars* Many others have tried to invade our home. The place we call Philo. They all failed...and you'll fail too.
This wasn't what he had expected. Entire worlds had shivered at the sound of his name and this stupid Saiyan wasn't afraid at all. It was to be expected though. This planet had never had a taste of Ringmage's power, but it would soon enough.
Ringmage: Stupid Saiyan...you obviously have no idea who you are dealing with!
Dust: ...?! *thinking: He knows I'm a Saiyan?*
Ringmage: *Grins* That's right...I know what you are. You're but a filthy Saiyan, the dim-witted destroyers of the Universe. I've been around far longer than you have and I know more than you could ever dream of knowing.
This comment made Dust clench his fists and lower his arms to his sides. Not all Saiyans were barbaric and monstrous as the ones of the past had been. Dust had heard stories from people amongst Philo over the last couple of years and even had his fair share of meeting some nasty Saiyans himself.
Dust: Well I guess we're on equal ground when it comes to knowledge. It's obvious you have no idea of the power that we all possess.
The argument was beginning to amuse the mage. He enjoyed a good debate, especially with someone who wasn't nearly as intelligent as he was in philosophy and history.
Ringmage: The power of all? Well then, tell me...what is the power of one?
Dust knew right away that this was pointless. Ringmage was just trying to get him to lose his temper and Dust wasn't about to play along with any mind games.
Dust: The power of one is strongest when combined with the power of all. Remember that...
Without anything more to say, Dust turned and walked off into the darkness of the night towards the forest. Ringmage could've easily attacked him from behind but decided against it. He would let the Saiyan have peace...
For now...
Ringmage: You'll pay for your words Saiyan. *ignores the chilling winds which cause tiny rocks to roll down the sides of the training area* Yes...you'll pay...with the blood of your loved ones!
****
The forest provided shelter against the chilling winds. Feeling exhaustion wash over him, Dust found a soft spot under a tree and allowed his body to collapse onto it. His thoughts drifted from thinking about Ringmage to other things.
Dust: Sleep is good...I should go...see...Avalik...*closes eyes*
The verbal fight with Ringmage had been more tiring than any type of physical training. However, Dust had a gut feeling there would be more of them, especially if the old wizard was totally serious about his domination plan.
More than anything right now Dust wanted to be with Avalik. They had been dating for a few months now and he hadn't seen her in a while. Training all the time had its disadvantages.
Dust: *sighs and falls asleep* -_-
****