Chapter 3: Red Faction - Establishment
Several dozen minutes have passed since Bardock linked up with Paragus and his squad.
Together, the group of six infiltrated the interior of what was thought to be the asteroid used as a command center for the PTO forces.
Up till now, they barely encountered any sort of resistance. Given they entered the asteroid through a side passage it was understandable that they remained undetected up to a certain point in time.
Course that moment was expected to arrive any minute now.
Bardock rounded a corner, immediately blasting the two guards standing in his way. He paused, glazing down the new corridor for any signs of the enemy.
The Saiyan didn't sense anyone nearby aside from the 5 others with him, but this ability was rather new and it never payed to be too careful.
"They should be on to us any moment now!" Paragus shouted from the corridor Bardock recently turned out of. "Speed is of the essence! Keep moving forward!"
Two of the other members of the infiltration team passed by Bardock before the latter continued forward. The rest of the team followed close behind.
The team traveled through a series of twists and turns, encountering light resistance they easily plowed through.
It was odd. Given all this time and the clear fact that they weren't acting as stealthy as they should be the enemy should've responded by now.
Either the commander was incompetent, they where in the wrong target area, or they were walking into a trap.
Given what he heard of this Commander Ledgic the Saiyan doubted it was the first possibility and though they could be in the wrong asteroid it was highly unlikely. The multiple energy levels he sensed further ahead seemed to assure Bardock of that.
In all likely hood they were most defiantly walking into a trap.
The group entered into a wide open area with two levels and plenty of support columns and other scattered obstacles that made it perfect for an ambush.
The two point men causally walked forward. Their eyes carefully scanning the surrounding area as they shared Bardock's concern of enemy ambush.
Paragus, along with the remaining two members of the team slowly walked forward.
"I don't sense anything." Paragus said in a low voice. "There might be no one here after all."
"Maybe..." Bardock replied. The room did seemed empty and he wasn't sensing anything nearby. Anything except this faint presence coming from...
Bardock's eyes widened. He dashed towards the two ahead of him.
"MOVE!" He shouted, before pushing the closer one aside and tackling him to the floor.
It was too late for the other soldier. A massive energy wave erupted from the ground underneath the latter, consuming the unsuspecting man whole in a flash of yellow energy.
Paragus ran towards the newly made pit, firing three energy blasts into the darkness below. The blasts exploded harmlessly onto the melted metal and rock, illuminating the depth of the hole if only for a few moments.
Whomever or whatever initiated that sneak attack was long gone, so too was the presence Bardock sensed.
Both now on their feet, the soldier Bardock saved turned to the latter. "Thanks Bardock. I owe you one."
"Don't mention it." The Saiyan bluntly replied. He walked over to Paragus, the latter whom glanced into the pit below.
"So it was a trap after all." Bardock said, standing beside his fellow Saiyan.
"Seems like it." Paragus replied, crossing his arms. "We have to remember that there's layers and layers of carved out tunnels beneath us."
"Yeah. Especially since they can attack us from bellow like this."
Paragus turned his head to Bardock. "We'll move carefully, but at a fast pace. The longer we take the more casualties our side takes."
Bardock crossed his arms. He paused for a few moments, secretly wishing for his physic powers to kicking.
They had an ironic way of picking when they wanted to work, never when he desired to see into the future yet always in a situation when he didn't.
Right now, Bardock could've really used a hint into the future. Chances are that whatever vision he'd see -given that the powers choose to work at that moment- would likely be of a time far from now rather than something later today.
"Lead the way." He replied, letting his arms drop to his sides.
Whatever the future held, regardless if he knew about it or not, Bardock knew that you could fight to change it however way you desire.
A hint really helped if someone tried to do that though.
Commander Ledgic watched the video feed. Minutes ago his men detected the presence of a group of six enemy infiltrators.
He closely watched them ever since, purposely ordering what squads he could to avoid the group at all costs. Recently, he directed a group of his soldiers to fire straight up through 4 layers of metal and rock as a sort of 'fire pit' trap for the intruders.
They managed to eliminate one. Would've been two if not for the intervention of a Saiyan.
Curious. How did he know about the trap below?
In the end it didn't matter. Now the remaining infiltrators will move curiously, buying much needed time for the tactical retreat.
"Commander." A PTO trooper station at a terminal before his spoke. The man turned his head back to face his commanding officer. "Our men have set 80% of the charges. The rest will be in place in 5 minutes."
Ledgic gave the order to set explosive charges around the asteroid belt almost immediately after he gave the order to prepare for their retreat. That was well before the enemy infiltrators were spotted.
"Good work." The greenish-blue humanoid replied. Confident that the enemy won't reach them with those 5 minutes, he proceeded to the next step.
"Begin loading all non essential personnel and combat teams J through T in the evac craft. Once the last charge is set, we'll begin a gradual withdraw from the combat zone."
"Understood!" The trooper replied before relaying the commander's orders.
Commander Ledgic turned around. He walked briskly towards the man who was as unreliable as he was powerful.
"Rouge." The forward called out as he approached. "It's your turn. Go out and crush the enemy forces."
The man smirked. "Awh, are your soldiers getting there asses handed to them out there?"
Commander Ledgic frowned. "Not exactly, but we need-"
"You don't expect me to deal with those fledgling do you?" Rouge cut the latter off. "I won't have any fun with those fodder."
He's always been like this, or so Ledgic was told. A rude individual with his own self interest at heart.
"Perhaps." Ledgic paused. He had to pick his words carefully to convince Rouge to aid his plan. "These soldiers won't prove much of a challenge for someone of your ability. It's who's beyond these weaklings that'll prove a challenge for a warrior of your caliber."
Rouge kept his gaze on the commander for several moments. He let out a tisk, obviously displeased by Ledgic's attempt to butter him up.
"You guys are pathetic." He said with the spin of his heel. The humanoid crossed his arms, taking two steps forward. "Don't waste my time with these weaklings."
Rouge looked back at Ledgic for a brief moment, uncrossed his arms then began to head towards the exit.
"Where do you think you're going?" Ledgic said, trying his best to keep the annoyance he had bottled up inside from leaking out.
"Where else?" Rouge snapped back without so much as glancing at the latter. "I'm going to go fight a Super Saiyan."
Ten minutes later...
Something wasn't right.
Every fiber in Bardock's body told him so.
The further the infiltration team penetrated the enemy's defenses the less and less resistance they meet. It should've been the opposite right?
After that trap they encountered almost a ten minutes ago, you think they would've ran into another one or two by now. At least an ambush if nothing else.
So what was going on?
These questions swirled in the Saiyan's head to the point of irritation.
Once again, he wished his physic powers would come into play so he might be able to find out what the hell was going on.
Deprived of that luxury, Bardock knew he had to figure out the enemy ploy before it came smack down on top of them and the only way to do that was to figure out his opponent.
The infamous Commander Ledgic, a officer of the PTO known for leading the stubborn defense of New Arcose and sudden disappearance before it's fall.
A man whom unlike many of his fellow officers understood tactics and knew fully well how to carry them out.
The infiltration team cautiously continued onward. Everyone alert for a trap they all suspected was about to be sprung.
But what kind of trap? Something similar to the previous one or something completely different?
Bardock tried to recalled what he recently learned about the enemy officer. Hoping to gain a hint to what the man was planning.
Paragus pulled up beside his fellow elite. "Something on your mind?" He asked.
"Don't you think it's odd that the enemy hasn't been putting up much of a fight?" Bardock replied, answering the latter's question with his own.
"Yes." Paragus quickly agreed. "I don't like it."
Bardock frowned. He was on the urge of recalling something important. A key detail about this Ledgic, but couldn't quite bring it to light.
"You remember the Battle of New Arcose?" He asked, hoping Paragus's answer would drag out whatever detail that stubbornly remained in the dark of his memory.
"Of course. It was only 3 months ago."
"Do you recall anything about our target that might hint at what's he might have in store for us?"
Paragus paused. Taking the next few moments to remember the battle on that day.
"I heard he attempted to lore the Saiyan Army into a trap by pulling back his forces similar to what he's doing now." Paragus finally said. "Do you think he has men set in ambush somewhere ahead?"
"Doubt it." Bardock bluntly replied. "I don't sense that many people ahead."
"Nor I." Paragus added. "Unless he found a way to block our ability to detect energy."
"I don't think the Planet Trade even knows we possess the ability, much less device a way to block it. We're organic, not some cheep toy like the Scouter."
Yet it did seem like they were being lured further in. But for what purpose? What did Ledgic have in store for them?
Bardock decided to feel out what was happening further beyond their position. Maybe he could figure out what they were up to from their movement.
The Saiyan stopped in his tracks. Shutting out everything else, Bardock felt outward. He felt his own presence as well as the four around him, most stopping as well. No doubt curious why he suddenly stopped.
After a few moments he felt the powers of several others running further into the asteroid.
This confirmed that the enemy had been purposely avoiding them, to what end had yet to be seen.
Bardock pushed further in, feeling several other fleeing presences. Finally he detected a massive group so far away that it seemed impossible these men were waiting to ambush them.
Before he could question why such a large group had gathered so far ahead, a portion of the powers split off from the group. The drifted slowly at first, then increased their speed dramatically escaping beyond Bardock range of sensing them.
Given the sudden increase of speed along with the amount of energies meant that they loaded up on a ship and flew out the asteroid. This could only mean one thing.
They were evacuating. Why? Had the battle outside turned against them that much? Given the confusion and high rate of friendly fire it seemed unlikely either side was winning.
So what was the reason for their abandoning their command center?
Bardock reminded himself of how Ledgic seemed to favor unsuspecting moves. Moves that not only surprised the opponent but delivered explosive damage as a result.
The Saiyan paused, taking a step back.
Explosive?...
These asteroids had been hollowed out, filled with layers of metals.
Could they, if charges were in the right places, exploded outward spraying chunks outward in all directions?
Bardock opened his eyes.
Finally, the dots connected.
Meanwhile, aboard Freiza's Ship...
"The enemy formation's beginning to crumble." One of the Red Faction troopers assigned to a bridge terminal reported.
"It's only a matter of time before our victory." Daizu said with a smile. "Have our men press the attack."
"Yessir!"
Riddic frowned. It was oddly suspicious that the battle had gone in their favor so soon after Paragus and his team infiltrated what was believed to be the enemy HQ.
The team sent no reply stating they we're compromised.
Granted transmitting behind enemy lines was a surefire way to get discovered. Even if they had taking the chance of blowing their cover, depending on how far into the interior of the asteroid they've traveled their signal might not have even broken through.
There had to be more to this situation then his men realized. Ledgic wasn't one let things go so easily without some hidden ploy. He learned that much from their first encounter.
"Belay that order." Riddic said, drawing confused looks from the soldiers around him. "Start pulling our men back instead."
Daizu turned to face him. "I'm sorry, but retreat? After all we lost to gain this momentum?"
"From the start our lines have been mixed. Our men couldn't tell enemy from ally." Riddic replied, turning his head to his friend.
"If we ordered the men to advance, there will be confusion among the ranks causing unnecessary casualties and panic. We need to regroup before advancing any further and sort this mess out."
"I...see your point." Daizu said with a bit of disappointment. He turned his attention to the officer station on comms. "Relay the order to pull back and regroup."
The officer acknowledged, immediately carrying out the task.
Riddic let a slight sigh slip out. Now that his men were out of harms way, he could focus on figuring out what exactly Ledgic was planning.
The commander was almost certainly trying to bait them forward. Probably to a trap the crafty man had prepared. In that case, what kind of trap?
Given the various asteroids all around, Riddic's first assumption was an ambush.
It would've been easy in a vast maze such as this. The flaw with that was the same both sides had experienced since this the start of this battle: They both wore the same uniforms.
While the Red Faction's soldiers had a small Hydra insignia on the upper right corner of their space worthy armor it did little to avoid the obsessive friendly fire incidences.
Besides, given how smart Ledgic seemed to be it was doubtful he'd use the same trick twice so soon after their first confrontation.
The silver-haired Saiyan was mostly positive these asteroids were key to whatever scheme the enemy had in store.
Another reason he ordered his forces to retreat. Better to pull back and fix their current mess than wait for Ledgic to throw another at them while they're all mixed up.
Riddic thought about the possible ploys Ledgic could act out utilizing the asteroids. Already eliminating ambush as a possibility, the Saiyan wondered if it was possible to rapidly move these asteroids and launch them like a sort of projectile.
In order to do such a feat, each would need a number of engines attached to the sides. That or a large number of strong able bodies to forcibly push them along.
The majority of the larger asteroids were once connected in a massive complex. Over the course of the battle the number of asteroids remaining together dwindled considerably as the enemy disconnected each section they managed to capture.
Images from these discarded sections along with the reports of his solders didn't pick up any sort of engine or rocket attached to the asteroids. It didn't seem that the enemy was heading towards any of the cast aside space rocks either.
Even if they had been, the amount of force needed to push one of those would require a great deal of manpower. (Though Riddic was confident he could move one by himself if he transformed into a Super Saiyan)
Unless they managed to move a bunch all at once, any asteroids they manage to move would crash into stationary ones and spin off course.
Riddic considered the possibility of somehow exploding parts of the asteroids off like a sort of shrapnel explosion and came across a similar problem the last idea shared.
There simply was too many floating rocks in the way for any such move to be effective.
Sure the enemy could wait for them to advance to certain areas, blow up part of an asteroid and knock a few of their numbers. It wouldn't be effective in a major way if the first attempt didn't eliminate a large number of their forces.
After that, they would know exactly what was waiting for them and avoid the asteroids capable of infliction significant damage.
Unless of course all those asteroids explodes at once.
Sure it would take some time to set all the necessary explosives, but it was possible. He couldn't think why it wouldn't be.
Riddic considered this possibility. It had been some time since the battle began, so if the order to plan explosive charges had been given they should've finished by now.
If so, that would explain the sudden lack of enemy pressure on the front lines. They were withdrawing while at the same time baiting their forces in before blowing everything to hell.
It made sense. Especially given this bases location.
Anyone outside of an idiot or a damn fool knew fully well that a base practically located on their enemy's doorstep wouldn't last long.
The best thing to do was inflict as much damage as possible to the enemy before retreating back to the safety of their own lines. But not before destroying everything to cover their tracks and leave nothing for the enemy to use.
It's probably what Blizzard would've done in the same situation.
Riddic had to hand it to this Commander Ledgic, he was a crafty man. Real shame he chose to side with the Planet Trade.
Deciding it was better to play it save, Riddic gave the order for a full withdraw.
Many of his officers looked confused, but relayed the order anyway.
After all, who would want to argue with a Super Saiyan?
Several minutes passed. Riddic attention fully focused on the monitors, watching for any changes in the enemy's movement or sighs of Ledgic's ploy coming to ahead.
After a few moments, a sudden chill ran down the Saiyan's back.
He sensed someone coming, someone powerful easily eclipsing the majority Ginyu Force.
There wasn't suppose to be anyone that powerful left in Frieza Army, should there?
"Daizu." Riddic calmly said. The latter turned his head but remained silent. "Don't you feel that?"
Daizu raised his eyebrow. "Feel wha-" The red-skinned humanoid cut himself off. He turned his head, eyes wavering as he sense the approaching power.
"I guess you mean that." Daizu replied in a calmer way than Riddic gave him credit for.
"Yeah." Riddic said with a frown. "Whatever it is, I'll take care of it. You're in charge till I'm back."
The Saiyan flashed his aura, alarming everyone on the bridge. He pressed his index and middle finger against his forehead.
Barely anyone had time to blink before Riddic vanished without a trace.
Rouge flew through space without a care, smashing threw small rock and other obstacles like they were paper.
The renegade didn't ware a space variant of the Battle Armor, instead he was wrapped in his own blue aura.
Between how long he could hold his breath along with the limited oxygen trapped within he'd have plenty of breath to make it inside Frieza's stolen ship and challenge the Super Saiyan directly. Along with pound anyone that dare stood in his way.
Rouge plowed through a handful of corpses, smirking. Then spun around twice before coming face to face with a silver-haired man.
He flew around, caught off guard by the sudden appearance of the stranger. He whirled back around, stopping a few feet from the man.
The man had a monkey tail wrapped around his waist meaning he was a Saiyan. Interesting...
The Saiyan encased himself in a white aura, keeping the vacuum of space at bay. He turned to face Rouge, the latter smirking.
'Who exactly are you?' A voice shot into the humanoid's mind.
'Telepathy huh?' Rouge replied.
'That's right.' The Saiyan relayed with a frown. 'Now tell me who you are.'
Rouge smiled, revealing a the front row of his teeth. 'And why should I do that? Who do you think you are, demanding my name like you're some high and mighty asshole?'
The Saiyan seemed to let out a huff, but otherwise remained unaltered. 'If you don't know who I am you clearly are a nobody.'
That response all but confirmed what Rouge already suspected.
'Oh?' He smirked. 'So you are some sort of big shot? Let me guess, freak. You're known for that crazy silver hair as an abomination among your own kind.'
'Wouldn't be famous if it was that simple.'
'Alright, let me try again.' Rouge smiled grimly. 'You're the so called Super Saiyan every other person in the galaxy been pissing their pants over.'
'Oh look, you do know about me.' The Saiyan smirked. 'And here you had me going that you were living under a rock for the past three months.'
Rouge let out a chuckle, or as close as he could while holding his breath.
He took his thumb and pointed over his shoulder.
'Let's take this conversation somewhere where we can breath. Don't know if a Super Saiyan needs oxygen like the rest of us, but a badass like myself sure as hell does.'
With Rouge leading, the two arrived at one of the discarded asteroid sections. They entered through an airlock, quickly entering the massive space rock.
Riddic lowered his aura first, taking in a deep breath. The air might've been stale, but it was there and that's what counts.
Rouge lowered his next then proceeded down the hall.
Riddic followed and the two marched until the arrived in a wide built area.
Rouge spun around to face his opponent.
"Before we start, I'd like to say thanks for ridding the universe of that waste of space called Freiza." He said with a wicked smile. "Arrogant prick always got on my nerves. Would've killed him myself someday but you beat me to it so good for you."
That threw the silver-haired Saiyan off a bit. Here he though this man was another of the diehard zealots.
"You hold no loyalty to Frieza, so why fight for him?" Riddic asked, curious more than anything but also to maybe gain an angle on how to turn this guy into an ally.
He had an impressive power level. Shame to waste it, even if this guy came off as a bit of a dick.
"I wish to fight powerful opponents." Rouge casually replied. "That's all I've ever lived for."
"You sound just like a Saiyan."
"Eh maybe." Rouge said before scratching the tip of his chin. "Can't get stronger every time someone beats my sorry ass like'em though. Not that many could to begin with."
"Well it's certainly an unfair advantage." Riddic replied with a smile. "Not that I'm complaining."
"Enough tall." Rough said, settling into a fighting stance. "Lets get this fight going!"
"Not going to tell me your name first?"
"Why do you care?" After a few moments of silence, Rouge let out a tisk. "People call me Rouge, and that's the only name I'ma give to you. Happy?"
Riddic closed his eyes, smirking. "That's good enough." He reopened his eyes. "I'm Riddic."
"Now that the introductions are over, you mind that we get to the ass kicking now?" Rouge said in annoyed way.
Riddic pushed his neck to one side, then the other. He stretched out his right arm and began to lazily roll it round and round. "Whenever you're ready."
Rouge dashed forward, aiming to smash his left elbow into Riddic's eye. The latter sidestepped, then caught a backhand aimed at his face.
With a smug look, Rouge swung his right leg low. Riddic jumped back, flipping away for his opponent. No sooner had the Saiyan stopped that Rouge fired a blue energy blast at him.
Riddic easily knocked it aside, countering with own.
Rouge held his ground, bringing his arms up to block. The blast exploded against his arms. Smoke emerged from the contact.
Rouge swung his arms down, clearing away most of the smoke.
"Come on, don't short change me!" He yelled.
Riddic looked at the man like he gone mad.
"I heard that a Super Saiyan supposta look like some spiky haired golden thing with a flashing aura." Rouge continued. He smirked wide enough to show his teeth.
"Not that you aren't a tough guy the way you are now. I only want to see if it's really all that."
Riddic paused for a few moments. Rouge wasn't the first to request he turn into a Super Saiyan and most likely wasn't going to be the last.
If it demoralized the man then why not? He was asking for it.
"As you wish."
Moments after his reply, Riddic simply transformed into a Super Saiyan. His gold aura pulsing like it was alive, giving a physical effect of how powerful this form truly was.
Rouge's eyes glimmered in awe. He smiled widely as excitement overtook his body.
He brought his hands up, clenching them like a kid glancing at an amazing new toy and admired it to the point of overwhelming madness.
"Ahha! Now that's awesome! You can feel the power flowing out from that form! No wonder so many are afraid of you, this feeling electrifying!"
Riddic raised his eyebrow as he half-smiled at Rouge's childish act. He couldn't decide if he should be flattered or concerned at his opponents excitement.
Most he fought in this form trembled in fear, and here this guy was all happy about fighting such a monster.
It gave Riddic a good idea of what kind of person Rouge actually was.
And then everything exploded.
Several minutes later...
"Take the ship into evasive maneuvers now!" Daizu shouted to the helmsmen. He turned to the comms officer "Tell everyone to hold on to something fast! Everyone outside will have to fend for themselves!"
The officer hastily replied before broadcasting the same words to their forces.
Alarms sounded off well before the spaceship began executing a series of turns, flips, rapid climbs or dives and other maneuvers in the hopes of preventing the rolling death scattering everywhere behind them from crashing into the them.
Without any warning, every single massive asteroid exploded into several large chucks that scattered into every which way.
Now the helmsmen was doing everything he could to avoid the ship and everyone on it from smashing into a million pieces.
The ship shuttered as a piece of asteroid grazed it, knocking some of the bridge personal out of their seats.
Half expecting them to explode into a ball of fire or the walls suddenly closing in all around them, Daizu grinned his teeth.
When the end didn't come and the ship finally settled into a holding pattern the red-skinned humanoid exhaled.
Funny. He didn't remember holding his breath.
Daizu looked from left to right. The bridge crew were alive and well, no one injured aside from a black and blue on their shoulder or wrist.
"Status report!" He shouted.
"Well. We're alive." One of the officers thoughtlessly replied.
"No duh. I mean to the ship."
"Minor scrapes along our portside." Another officer replied. "Some minor injuries being reported but otherwise everyone's alright."
"Everyone that made it inside the ship you mean." The first officer added.
The bridge feel silent for the next few moments.
It was a grim reminder. Not everyone reached the safety of the ship. A good portion of the survivors were outside when everything erupted.
They will search for survivors, they own those brave men that much, but the chances of finding any alive were low.
At that moment, two powers appeared out of nowhere. Those that have learned to detect power levels turned towards the source, many gasping at what they saw.
"L-lord Riddic?" One of the bridge personal said aloud.
Daizu blinked a few times. Riddic, in his Super Saiyan state, held a aqua green haired man no one aboard the bridge recognized at arms length.
The forward let out a sigh of relief while the latter rapidly glanced around, confused as to what happened.
"That was a close call." The Saiyan said, reverting back to his normal state. "It was a good thing I turned into a Super Saiyan before the explosion, otherwise I doubt I would've been fast enough to get us out of there."
"What...did happen anyway?" The aqua haired humanoid asked.
"The asteroid we were on exploded." Riddic bluntly replied.
"What?!" The man shouted. "It was that damn Ledgic doing wasn't it? I swear I'm gonna kill him the next time we meet!"
"Given how crafty he is, I don't think that'll be anytime soon."
"Can...hear...is...Do you..." The open comm channel cried out. Burst of static made whatever someone was trying to illiterate.
The comms officer spun around. His hand moved to a nob as the other pressed against his headphones. The officer moved the nob back and forth trying to clear up the signal.
"Repeat...is Para...survivors...stole a...Do you read?"
"This is Paragus. I'm with the survivors of the infiltration team. We stole an enemy evac craft and are heading towards RFC's last known position. Is anyone receiving?"
The comms officer pulled his hand away from the nob and moved the microphone attached to his headset closer to mouth.
"This is RFC. We copy Paragus. Had to move some distance due to the explosions. Standby to receive current coordinates."
"Copy that. We had to hightail it out of the area and circle around." The Saiyan replied. "We'd be dead if Bardock didn't guess what was going on. Would've send a warning but we didn't have much time before everything scattered."
"Understood Paragus. Here are the coordinates."
As the comms officer relayed the coordinates to Paragus, Riddic closed his eyes and smiled.
"So Paragus and them made it out alright. That's good."
"Uh Riddic." Daizu cut in. "I have to ask. Who this this guy."
"Oh right." Riddic slightly turned his head to the man next to him. "This is Rouge. The guy I went after before everything blew up."
"Yo." Rouge added.
"So is he an ally?" Daizu asked as he awkwardly return the latter's greeting with a wave.
"Good question." Riddic replied with a smile. He turned towards Rouge.
"So how about it Rouge? You wanna join Red Faction?"
'You mean he's not and you brought him aboard?!' Daizu mentally shouted.
Rouge blinked a few times before letting out a laugh. "You can't be serious. You want someone like me on your side?"
"Why not?" Riddic cocked his head to the side. "You're one of the strongest people I've meet. If you'd join us it would booster our forces by leaps and bounds."
Rouge crossed his arms, smirking. "While I appreciate the flattery, I told you I'm only interested in fighting strong opponents. You're the strongest person I've meet, so what's the sense of recruiting a guy who's going to go out of his way to fight you?"
"About that, there's one other guy I have working for me who's stronger than you." Riddic started.
"From what I understand he's been out of shape despite his overwhelming power and probably could use someone nearly as strong to help whip him back into prime fighting shape."
"Besides, I never said you couldn't fight me while working for me."
Rouge smiled, but remained silent.
Riddic paused for breath. Then continued his 'convincing speech.'
"I know what kind of person you are Rouge. You're someone who enjoy the thrill of fighting against all odds. I'm guessing its a sort of addiction, one were you don't feel alive unless you're putting it at risk."
"I can guaranty that if you choose to work for me, I'll gladly throw you into near suicide missions surrounding by legions of enemies. They might not nearly be strong enough individually to satisfy you but the sheer numbers should prove something of a challenge."
The silver-haired Saiyan smiled. "In the end we both get what we want. Think about it. "
Rouge moved one hand to his chin, casually rubbing it with his index finger and thumb.
He kept this up for several minutes, both think about the offer in length and plainly to see if Riddic would be annoy that he took so long to answer.
After coming to a decision and confident the Saiyan was a patient man, Rouge lowered his hand. Staring into Riddic's eyes, the aqua green haired man gave his answer.
"If you're fine with having a bastard like me join your ranks, then I don't see a problem." Rouge said, smiling wide. "I'll accept your offer, oh Legendary Super Saiyan."
Some time later. Planet Vegeta...
King Vegeta stood, arms crossed along his chest, staring out the wide window frame located in his palace's private rooms.
Though it wasn't as private as one may like due to the window that stretched from one end to the other.
Thanks to this lack of privacy, the room was mostly left unoccupied, used only during the rare occasions when they simply had no other available rooms for guests or -like now- when the Saiyan King felt the need to gaze upon his kingdom behind a wide window frame instead of the room top or one of the observation decks of his palace.
Standing beside the proud king was his equally or even more proud filled son.
The two stared out the window for several long, silent moments.
Time like these -awkward as they may seem- where the few and far in between opportunities the father son duo had to bond.
Much had happened since the last time they had a moment such as this: Their people rebelling against Frieza and his Planet Trade, the subjugation of New Arcose and the formation of Red Faction, and most importantly the appearance of a Super Saiyan.
While Riddic, the aforementioned Super Saiyan, had come from a bloodline considered one of the elite which made his accession understandable given this status, it hit many Saiyans whom dreamed of becoming a Super Saiyan themselves hard.
Saiyans like his son, Prince Vegeta.
Though his pride and seeming arrogance hid his disappointment well, King Vegeta could see through the act. He was the boy's father after all.
"My son, you are from a strong bloodline." The Saiyan King said, breaking the lasting silence. "Within you is the power to join the Super Elite."
The young prince let out a huff, crossing his arms. "Just not a Super Saiyan." He said, irritated.
King Vegeta closed his eyes. "I hoped and prayed that you of all our people would become a Super Saiyan." He replied, reopening his eyes. "However, it seems fate had granted that honor to another."
King Vegeta turned to his son, the latter glancing up to his father.
"Regardless, it would be foolish to let such a thing discourage you my son." The Saiyan King said, pausing a moment to present his son with an encouraging smile.
"You as the Prince of all Saiyans have unlocked potential. If you apply yourself through training, I am confident that you can become the greatest Saiyan of all times."
Prince Vegeta's eyes seemed to glimmer slightly. "You mean...I can surpass a Super Saiyan?"
The King of all Saiyans blinked, hesitating for a few seconds. That wasn't exactly what he was trying to tell his son, but if such a goal would motivate him to aspire to greater heights...
"If such a thing is possible," King Vegeta answered, renewing his smile. "Then you of all Saiyans will find it."
Prince Vegeta closed his eyes, smiling.
Though he would rarely ever say it, the Saiyan King knew exactly what his son wished to convey.
"Thank you, father."
Meanwhile on Planet New Arcose...
Riddic stood at the front of an long table spanning dozens of feet.
Crafted into the table was an long holographic panel spanning nearly the length of the entire table it was built. Save for the half dozen inches of hard plastic, the holo panel might as well have been the entire table.
Off to the Saiyan's left stood Captain Drak. The demon held a small tablet in his hand. With it, he could give commands to the massive holo panel, summoning any image the device was able to portray.
The captain taped the tablet several times. A moment after his hand stopped, a massive star map appeared from the holo panel.
Today the veteran warrior would brief his lord on the current state of the known galaxy along with the over all status of the growing Red Faction.
Though he didn't have much of a taste for dull reports such as this, the silver-haired Saiyan knew cases such as this were important and demanded his full attention.
After all, what sense would it be to know nothing about the current state of his own empire?
"Frieza had control over 900 planets and other artificial constructs." Captain Drak said, starting his report.
"Out of this number, 248 worlds have pledged their loyalties to our cause and have been or currently being fully incorporated into our ranks." He paused for a few moments to highlight the worlds with a red glow.
Some of these planets were far and few in between, most gathered together in the same or neighboring star system.
After allowing his lord several moments to study the map, Captain Drak highlighted a small set of other worlds in a blue glow.
"These worlds are those we've confirmed have chosen to remain loyal to upstart Frieza." He added once the worlds were highlighted.
"As you can see, they are quite few in number. Please keep in mind that this number is subject to change depending on our next section of worlds."
Once again, the demon highlighted a number of worlds -hundreds in fact- in a yellow glow.
"These are contested worlds. Even as we speak, swarms of soldiers wishing to join Red Faction or enslaved species rebelling to regain their freedom fight against those still foolish enough to side with the usurper's youngest son."
Riddic nodded in acknowledgement. These 'contested worlds' easily totaled 4 or 500 planets or other such territories.
In the many days to come whatever battles raging across those worlds will end either in victory for like minded individuals who desired to throw of their shackles of oppression or those who foolishly stay loyal to a tyrant who's long since passed from this realm of existence.
Given how...unpopular to put it lightly, Frieza's treatment of his subjects have been up to the point of his fall. The majority of the victories would almost certainly fall towards the forward.
Even so, that didn't mean he and the rest of Red Faction would sit back and watch.
"What's the situation regarding our fighting strength?" Riddic asked.
Captain Drak looked at his lord. "We've recently finished organizing our current manpower in to 101 legions, of with hold 15,000 men each."
The demon tapped the tablet a few times, adding several orange arrows originating from one of the red glowing worlds and towards one or more of the yellow glowing worlds.
"In accordance to your lordship's wishes, deployment of half of our legions under my authorization is currently underway. These arrows indicate each legions origin point and the combat areas each have been assigned. Earliest first initial contact with allied forces estimated at 54 hours."
Riddic smiled. "Sometimes captain I think you're physic."
"Merely excellent at reading my lord's intentions." Captain Drak replied. His gaze fixated on the tablet held in his hand. "Earliest estimates show over 70% of Freiza's territories falling under our control within 10 years."
"10 years huh?" Riddic said, crossing his arms. "Do these estimates factor in potential problems like this Commander Ledgic?"
"Indeed the do my lord." Drake seemed to scroll up on the handled device. "If he was removed from the equation, along with the limited knowledge we've gained from Rouge and other recent conscripted soldiers these projections would've shorted to 4 years at the earliest."
"6 year difference. Man, goes to show how threatening this Ledgic guy can be."
"Perhaps from a strategic stand point." Drake added. "However, should he find himself in a position where he's directly involved in combat I doubt I can see his power level anywhere above 10,000."
"Which we have plenty of soldiers that blow past that goal post." Riddic finished.
Captain Drak nodded in agreement. His hand moved across the tablet in a session of fast presses and slides.
Moments after, the orange arrows faded from the holo display. Replaced by the green glow of a handful of planets mostly in between dozens and dozens of yellow highlighted worlds.
"The final matter I'd like to bring up my lord is concerning these highlighted worlds." The demon said.
"These green highlights represent the territories of several former PTO governors requesting alliances with us."
"They ask that their power be unaltered from their current stance and their territories left unmolested by our forces and in return they shall send -upon our request- a detachment of the soldiers under their command."
"Estimates show the total amount of these governor forces to be about 100,000 strong. This number represents all of their forces together rather than per governor. I have the individual numbers if you desire to view them."
"Not at the moment Drak thanks." The Saiyan answered. He would study each as they would deal with them one by one. What he wished to address now was the possible asset of the additional forces these so called allies would provide upon Red Faction's request.
"Can we assume that the total of this possible detachment to be somewhere around a fourth of this number?"
"Perhaps." Captain Drak quickly replied. He looked at the Saiyan before continuing further.
"If I were to throw in my personal opinion, I doubt these governors would send even those few soldiers. Most likely a company size from each, no more no less unless you show them some encouragement as to provide us with more."
Riddic let out an amused humph. So even the reputation of a Super Saiyan couldn't sway the minds of stingy bureaucrats and opportunists without some sort of incentive.
"I'll be sure to do so once we deal with them in the near future." The Saiyan replied with a smile. "Thank you Captain. Your service to our cause is invaluable."
"You honor me with such worlds." Drak replied with a bow.
"Well, if that's all then you're dismissed."
"Very good my lord."
Captain Drak tapped a few commands into the tablet, shutting the holo panel off. He bowed once more, spun around, and marched towards the exit.
The silver-haired Saiyan let out a sigh.
The peace he and Blizzard sought to establish was still a long way off. Slowly though, they were closing in on that goal.
'10 years earliest till peace huh?' Riddic though to himself. 'It could've been a 100 and it still would be alright. What's 10 years to an immortal Super Saiyan anyway?'
Several days later...
The silver-haired Saiyan let out a sigh as he spun around in a revolving chair. He glanced out a window, watching the setting sun for a time.
This was the first time in a long time he had a moment to himself.
The past few days have been nothing but nonstop meetings involving representatives of worlds incorporated into the ranks of Red Faction, others representing a handful of governors wishing not only to forge an alliance with their growing empire but also try to create trade agreements between the two and other individuals whom wish to, and I quote:
"Pay tribute to the individual whom rid the galaxy of that genocide maniac."
Though the Planet Trade Organization's main product had been the worlds they've conquered, they've been known to sell and trade rare minerals and other items of worth found on their 'cleared' worlds.
Some have come to relay on this trade and hope Red Faction would continue this system.
Honestly, Riddic hadn't a clue when it came to marketing enterprises. Fortunately, individuals such as Daizu had stepped up at least some experience in these ordeals.
The Super Saiyan was more than happy, and grateful, to allow these men and women free reign to handle the predicament in however way would best benefit Red Faction.
As for those other matters, Captain Drake assured him that each trying meeting benefited both Red Faction and his own image helping each become a symbol of strength, security, and freedom to the galaxy.
Even so, acting out the same routine about 10 times a day gets old real quick.
And here Riddic sat on a revolving chair in what would be his private study.
Originally the room was some office belonging to some secretary for a high ranking officer or politician, but after seeing Frieza's private study the Saiyan thought in better for something more on the simple side.
Who the hell wants a study that looks like a overly decorative ball room anyway?
Riddic heard the automated door open. He turned, staring at his mate Lea.
"Oye." She said taking her first steps into the room. "Lately I've seen less and less of you. Don't you like me anymore?"
In truth, he hasn't been seeing much of anyone outside these numerous meetings. On the rare cases he did get a break from the endless cycle the Saiyan spent catching his breath before the next round.
"It's not that, not at all." Riddic replied before let out another sigh. He moved his right hand up to his face, lightly massaging his forehead with two fingers..
"Establishing an empire is more time consuming than I'd prefer. Exhausting as well. I barely have time for myself let alone anyone else."
"That's no excuse to leave your lovely mate all by her lonesome." Lea said, placing her hands on her hips. "Keep this up and I'll start to feel abandoned."
Riddic gave his mate a sad smile. "I'm sorry. It'll get better soon, I promise."
"I'll be sure to hold you to that." She replied, casually walking over to his side.
Without so much as a word, Lea sat on her mate's lap. She leaned back, resting her head underneath his chin. She closed her eyes as the two remained silent for the next few minutes.
"I know I can be pushy at times, but that's only cause I care." Lea said, breaking the lasting silence.
Riddic respond by wrapping his arms around her waist. "I know." He replied. His breath warming the back of Lea's neck. "It's one of your good points, Lea."
The latter smirked. "Oh?~ One huh?" She said in a teasing manner before rubbing the sides of his legs. "Might telling me my other 'good points' Mr. Super Saiyan?"
Riddic chuckled. "Gladly."
The two lovers continued like this, engaging in conversation long after the sun had set.
They learned more about one another that long lasting night, falling for each other even more than before.
As time passed, both Saiyans desired that night to last for all eternity.
Before either realized, dawn had come. With it the start of another trying day for the immortal Super Saiyan and another mostly lonely day for his lover.
On that day however, neither had any inking on the chain of events about to be set in motion.
Events that would once again change the course of this galaxy's fate forever.
Age 738. 1 year after the Fall of New Arcose...
On a frontier world bordering the East and North galaxies, stood a single, barely maintained bar located in the middle of a barren wasteland.
Rare few traveled to this establishment, even among the local colonists as few dared to brave the vast wastelands constantly hammered by sandstorms.
As such, it quickly became a place where those who didn't want to be found or those whom desired little company spent their time wasting away with booze and poor excuse for nourishment.
Here, to patients sat prostrated on run down stools.
The one on the left: A large, muscular build man with red-brown skin, darker colored hair, dressed in a variant of the PTO Battle Armor with two spikes sticking out of each shoulder guard and a red Scouter over his left eye.
Next to him sat a darker shinned man with black, spiky hair. He was muscular, but not as large as the man he sat next to. Dressed in a black and purple set of the PTO Battle Armor with a red Scouter over his left eye, the man had one other notable feature about him: A monkey tail wrapped around his lower waist.
The latter held his head low to the table before him, lazily spinning an empty glass in his right hand.
The automated door of the establishment opened, grey sand blew into the interior blanketing the area around with light debris.
The door closed seconds after. The sound of two sets of footsteps echoed in the mostly vacant bar. The sounds drew closer and closer, stopping only when the two beings drew close to the only other souls in the establishment.
The Saiyan hear their breathing, meaning they were hovering right behind him.
He let out a slight sigh, but otherwise ignored the two. Perhaps they would wise up and leave. He was having a bad day as it is, as was everyday for the past two years.
Someone beat him to his revenge, that left a bad taste in his mouth and a damper on his motivation.
The whole galaxy was turned on its head. All thanks to this Red Faction or whatever they called themselves declaring war on the Planet Trade and causing a ripple through Frieza's territory.
It was best to wait for things to blow over before he made a move.
There was no reason to make his sour mood any worse.
Minutes passed without as much as a noise, aside for the occasional muffled banging of the raging sandstorm outside.
"Are you Turles?" One of the gawking fools said, a female from the sound of her voice.
The Saiyan closed his eyes. "Who wants to know?" He bluntly replied.
"Someone who want to offer you power beyond your wildest dreams."
Turles let out a slight chuckle, smirking. "Is that right?"
The man next to him; a criminal he saved from the Galaxy Police not too long ago named Amond, turned around. "Can't you see he rather not be bothered right now?"
"Aye, not now or ever it seems." The other unknown answered. This one a male. "It's a sad sight to see a Saiyan so down he rather drown himself in piss poor booze then basking in the blood of your enemies."
"What would you know about Saiyans?" Turles replied, picking up his head. "And what gives you any say on how I should live?"
"Well for starters, I think I know enough to back up what we're talking about." The unknown said. "As for the other, if you weren't acting like a pansy ass loser drinking away his sorrows I would agree with you."
Amond slammed his right hand on the table. He started to stand, every fiber in his body urging him to teach this nobody a lesson.
"Cool off Amond." Turles said with the wave of his hand.
Normally, he would've let the man go at it. As things stood now, there wasn't a point regardless of how rude this mystery man was.
Turles turned his head back, barely catching the taller of the pair in the corner of his eye.
"You might be right." He started. "I might be wasting away in this bar as I drown myself in liquor. What of it?"
As he said the last bit, Turles spun around to face the two.
The taller one he vague had an eye on before was an average sized male. He wore a dull brown cloak, and choose to keep the hood down revealing white hair and black eyes. This man gave the impression of a Saiyan, but Turles never heard of Saiyans with snow white hair.
Though, he had known one with silver hair.
The shorter of the two covered herself in a similar colored cloak as the first. Though many of her features where cloaked in darkness, Turles could make out pail colored skin and...a single downward spike of silver hair?
"What if I told you, you can still enact for revenge?" The latter said.
Turles let out a single laugh. "Yeah right." He smirked, twirling around the glass he still held in his hand. "Looks like you haven't heard, but Frieza's dead."
"Perhaps, but the one who robbed you the honor of killing him is still very much alive."
Turles frowned. The news on Frieza's death had one other mind blowing source of information: the appearance of a Super Saiyan.
Like all other Saiyans, Turles knew just about all there is to know about that monster. An indestructible killing machine capable of feats considered impossible my mortal men. The ultimate warrior.
Like hell he'd stand a chance against something like that.
"If you think I have a death wish, challenging a Super Saiyan then you're wasting your time." Turles replied after a few moments of silence. "I might be a Saiyan, but I'm not suicidal."
The female smirked, she extended one hand out. In her palm was a small dark brown bag.
"Take these."
Turles raised his eyebrow. He glazed into the females face, looking for eyes that didn't seem to be there.
"What are they?"
The woman smiled. "The seeds to your newfound source of power. With it, you can easily surpass any that stand in your way. Even a Super Saiyan."
Again Turles frowned. Just who did this woman think she was talking to?
The Saiyan turned his head. "Sorry. I'm not buying it."
"But of course." The female replied. "I would question this as well if I were in your position."
Amond frowned. "If you understand the-"
The larger of the pair held out his hand, smirking. "I believe you were told to cool off, Amond was it?"
The latter growled, but another wave from Turles called him off.
"I assure you that these seeds are indeed what I claim them to be." The woman continued. "These are the seeds of a tree refereed to as the Tree of Might."
Turles raised his eyebrow at the mentioned of that name, but remained silent.
"The Tree of Might is a massive tree that bares the fruit of the Kais." The cloaked woman continued. "Each can multiply a person's strength exponentially. There's no limit to how many a person can consume at a time and the power boost is permanent."
"You will only need one seed to planted this tree. However, they much be planted on a world with an abundance of life for this tree feeds off the life energy of the world it is planted on."
"So it essentially kills a world for it to grow?" Amond asked.
"Precisely." The woman replied, turning in the latter's direction. "It cannot bare such beneficial fruit otherwise."
She turned her head back to face Turles. "I am willing to give you these seeds for free and experience the overwhelming power each fruit will grant you."
As she spoke, she gently grasped onto the Saiyan's arm and pulled in forward, placing the bag containing the seeds of the Tree of Might in his hand.
"Whether you choose to use these seeds and obtain power beyond your imagination or continue to waste away in this...establishment is completely up to you."
She turned around, slowly heading towards the exit door. He companion moved aside then followed close behind.
Once the pair had reached the automated door, the female turned back. She smiled, gazing at the Saiyan. "I bid you farewell."
And with those words, the pair activated the door and walked out to the unrelenting sandstorm beyond.
The automated door slid shut. Once again, the run down bar grew back into an eerie silence.
Turles looked down at the bag in his hand, pondering on what his next move should be.
This seem like nothing but a well conceived lie. It had to be. There's no way that a tree of all things could help him become stronger than a Super Saiyan!
But if it wasn't a lie and if what he held in his hands was in fact a tree that could bare the fruit of gods. Fruit that grew at the cost of a planet's life force and increased the strength of those that ate it...
"Amond." The latter turned his head at the calling of his name. "Contact Rasin and Lakasei. Tell them to pick us up."
"Yes sir." Amond humbly answered. "May I ask where we're going?"
"Isn't it obvious?" Turles replied, his gaze fixated on the bag held in his hand. "We're going to see if these seeds are really what that woman says they are."
He stood up, placing the empty glass held in his other hand down on the table behind him. "What happens after depends on if she was telling the truth or a lie."
Sand and dust raging wildly all around, the two cloaked figures walked seemingly unaffected by the storm.
"My lady," Marcus spoke up. "May I ask why you gave those seeds to those two?"
"Curiosity." 'The Lady' replied. "I wish to witness what happens when I give such a powerful item in the hands of certain mortals."
"So you do like seeing how we kill each other." Marcus said in a 'I knew it' tone.
"I can't say I don't." The Lady stated. "But I rather not witness needless conflicts."
"And the one you potentially set up is necessary?" The Saiyan asked.
"Absolutely." The Lady humbly replied. "In order for my plans to bare any fruit, I must set the stage for these confrontations to take place."
Marcus frowned. "You do know that you just set up a fight between that Turles guy and my best friend right?"
"Know it?" The Lady smiled. "It's precisely what I'm hoping for."
And here marks the end of the latest entry to Double S.
So Rouge joins the ranks of Red Faction. We'll see if that decision comes back to bite Riddic or not.
As things progress and the revolution Riddic desired striking a crippling blow for the Frieza faction of the Planet Trade and Red Faction moving to incorporate the contested territories, forces such as Sub Zero and 'The Lady' move to forward their own agendas.
Things are set in motion for Turles and Riddic to confront one another. What will happen should these two meet? Find out, next time on Double S!