I wish I owned DBZ, but I don't. I own DVD's and tapes, but it just isn't the same. I also don't own the rights to any of the music pieces you see selected, just copies of merchandise, such a shame. The artists that created them are geniuses and we all must bow to them.
Chapter 115: Guardian Council
True to his word, Kibito reappeared later that day near mid-afternoon. Verto had returned to Capsule Corp by then and donned his teal-green uniform, waiting somewhat patiently for the Kai to show up. For once, Kibito didn't have bad timing and teleported into an empty lobby, aside from Verto sitting there.
"So where are we going?" Verto asked.
Kibito grimaced, "Leira warned you ahead of time, great. Well we are going to my planet first, it isn't up to me after that."
"Fine, let's get this crap over with." Kibito nodded and grabbed his shoulder before teleporting them both off of Earth. Once they arrived on the Kai planet, he found two new figures waiting for him. One was Etarb Erec, who looked like he was still recovering from the battle with Vang. The other was a tall woman that he didn't recognize. She was six and a half feet tall, looked to be around forty years of age, white-silver hair, and a wicked set of tattooed eyelashes that arced off her face and extended towards her temples like a snake's forked tongue. She wore loose formal dress robes consistent with Etarb's, white and velvet but of a slightly different design. No matter what though, Verto could tell that she was a person of noteworthy importance. At her side were twin swords, sheathed in black. He wasn't sure if he sensed all of her potential power or not, but a baseline reading was enough of a hint to know that she wasn't to be messed with.
Etarb bowed slightly to Verto in respect, "A pleasure to see you again."
Verto hesitated before returning the gesture, "No offence, but I don't really feel the same at the moment. With everything that's happened I would've preferred some peace and quiet."
Etarb ran a hand through his blue hair, "Yes it's unfortunate and expected. Nonetheless, I must ask you to maintain your composure from this point forward. No irrational outbursts, no explosions, no fighting. Do you understand?"
Verto's eyebrow went up slightly, "I won't put my hand up and swear to it. I get the feeling you're about to piss me off anyway. In your condition, I wouldn't suggest it. I already feel like smashing a few skulls in and I don't really care who they belong to."
Etarb grimaced nervously, "Oh dear…"
The tall woman laughed, "I like this kid already."
Verto gazed up at her, "And you are?"
She smirked down at him, "I am Venestra of the Guardian Council, commander of the militia and arms division."
Verto's eyebrow didn't drop, "I've heard that name somewhere before."
"Yes I imagine you might have by now. I am Leira's biological grandmother, not on the demon or Saiyan sides. And due to your connection to her brother, I guess that would make you my ancestral grandson. Just what I need, another reminder of my age," Venestra said with a scoff.
Verto couldn't help but chuckle despite the revelation, "Well it doesn't show that much, Granny."
Venestra's semi-cheerful tone was quickly gone, "You get one pass for that remark. If I ever hear it again, especially in front of the troops, I'll slice that pretty little nose off before you can smell your next breath."
Verto took the threat a bit more seriously than the odd choice of words as he eyed her swords, "I'll keep that in mind."
Etarb shook his head slightly, "That was lucky. Your predecessor once had the nerve to call her that in front of the entire Guardian Realm. He was let out of the infirmary six months later."
Verto stared at him and grimaced before turning back, "I could've used that warning a little sooner. So what do you want with me?"
"You will go before the Guardian Council to be judged," she replied plainly.
"Great, what's the crime? I'd prefer to know what I did wrong first," Verto said with distain.
Venestra was taken aback, "You misunderstand. The testing phase is over. You're to be judged on if we'll allow you to join us. Leira did make it clear that we we're looking to recruit you, correct?"
Verto scowled, "Oh right, that. I guess next time I should answer with smaller words."
Etarb shook his head again, "It's a great opportunity Verto, not one that should be shunned despite your feelings."
Verto's head snapped towards him, "And what would you know about my feelings? And don't read my mind, that shortcut won't tell you anything."
Etarb straightened up, "No need to be angry at an offer. And here's what I do know about you. You will strive to help people and do the right thing when the ball is in your court. You're not the type that would turn away someone in need, despite your outward behavior."
Verto's glare lightened, "But why me? I thought I made it clear to Leira that I had no wish to be involved in your little cold war with the demons."
Venestra snorted, "Cold war, good term for it I suppose. And it's hard to say that we're at war with all demons, just a particular group that happens to be above the rest of them. And this 'cold war' will be a hot war soon enough. I suspect that nearly every mortal realm will be pulled in this time. Both sides probably would've tried to destroy each other completely if I hadn't brokered that treaty that has kept us in gridlock ever since. Sometimes I wonder if I should've just let it break down when I screwed up, just to get it over with."
Verto ignored the urge to make another age reference, "And what did you screw up?"
Venestra nearly bit her lip, "I made a mistake with the Demonkin ambassador and we sired my son. It was forbidden, but since we were both equally guilty the truce wasn't broken. However, both sides agreed that due to conflict of interest, neither of us could raise it on our own. And because we didn't get along, we had to split time with him, similar to how divorced parents do things in your world. He spent an equal amount of time with us before he ventured into the mortal realms to find his own place. I think you probably know where this is going."
Verto nodded, "I'm guessing he found a Saiyan woman's bed and not long after a set of twins popped out."
Venestra managed a small smile, "Whether it was that quick or not I have no idea. I'm guessing he didn't think that children were possible. It's funny what happens when you disguise yourself to a compatible form to the other partner and find out that isn't the case. The mother died in childbirth due to the strength the children had, so we have no idea what she was like. Neither Guardian nor Demonkin were too happy about this, and my son was banished from both realm home worlds for all time once they learned of it. He eventually vanished off the radar so to speak, even I have no idea where he might be, if he's even alive. Both children were given a choice of place they could go since the Saiyan planet was out of the question until they could control their advanced abilities. Verto chose the Guardians and became a Demon Slayer. Leira chose the demons initially but eventually came back to our side. I trust you don't need much more history on the subject right now?"
Verto shook his head, "I think I've got the jest of it, but I still don't see why you want me in your little club to fight your war."
"Both my son and grandson wanted no part of it either, but, as they learned, life isn't fair, so deal with it. Now shut up and get ready to leave, you too Kibito!"
Kibito's eyes widened and he pointed to himself, "You want me to go along? But us Kais are not allowed in the realm of the Elder Gods."
"And if they were still around they could punish you. I shall beg their forgiveness at the very first chance," Venestra said sarcastically as she pulled one of her swords. She slashed at the air with one swipe and a circle of dark blue formed before a similar portal opened up. Beyond it, Verto could see darker patches that likely represented buildings.
"Go on, it's safe for travel," Venestra claimed. Verto gave her an unsure glance before stepping through. The scenery on the other side was much different than he expected. It looked almost exactly like Earth on the other side, with the exception of a bit of a time discrepancy. There was a definite sense that he had entered a place that still followed medieval traditions. Each small building was of far eastern design with thick, brushy tiles covering their roofs. The larger structures were the same, with some sort of identification on their sides. Verto couldn't read the language, but guessed that those were not only there for landmarks, but also for reserved personnel. Straight in front of him was a long narrow path surrounded by huge pillars with smaller statues scattered between them. The partial canopy provided by the pillars made the path darker despite the abundant sunshine.
Venestra took the lead on that path, "This way." Etarb waited for Verto to follow before bringing up the rear with Kibito. The younger Saiyan was feeling a bit overwhelmed at the moment but wasn't too obvious about it. He sensed strong life forms all over the place, but there weren't any close by. Most of them were at least as strong as he was based on the power level reading, but the distance between him and them made it harder to tell just how strong they actually were. He was also taken by the statues, which were all very well carved. Some of them looked human, but many of them weren't. Only once did he stop to examine one a bit more closely, a rabbit-like person in a martial arts uniform. At second glance, Verto wasn't sure if he was supposed to be a rabbit or a cat or some sort of combination.
Etarb quickly caught up and directed him to keep moving, "I know you're curious, there will be a time for that later."
"Gee, did you need to read my mind to figure that part out? First time being here and all," Verto reminded snidely.
Venestra turned slightly but didn't break stride, "Mind reading is forbidden here. Any attempts to do so will bring swift and harsh punishment. Your thoughts are your own."
Verto grinned, "I like this place better already."
Venestra smirked, "I thought you might. Etarb has mentioned several times how much you dislike having your mind read like an open book. There is a special dampening field here that prevents such violations from taking place without permission. Otherwise we would all go mad and be at each other's throats I imagine. Of course you can give permission, say to maybe a hot young girl you may or may not meet, and it's okay."
Verto grin faded, "That implies me staying here for any longer than I have to. Question, if that's okay."
"Certainly."
"What do I need to know before we get wherever we're going?"
"Just use your common sense, and your manners. Since we're going straight to the council chambers this shouldn't test your patience too much. The Guardian Council is made up of twenty-seven members, each with their own personalities and opinions. Some of them may come across as very rude, but do not respond in kind. Always face the Chairman, even if someone else is speaking. He'll be the one in the middle. Do not speak until spoken to, and do not interrupt anyone. You will be treated fairly as long as you don't do anything rash or stupid. And above all else, do NOT lie. Our Chairman has an uncanny ability to read people up close. He will know you're lying before you even speak the words, so don't test him," Venestra warned.
Verto shrugged off the warning, "Sounds easy."
Venestra closed her eyes for a moment, "If only it were." They came up to a gargantuan door a few minutes later, easily as big as a ten-story building. It opened slowly, giving Verto and Kibito plenty of time to take it all in.
"Quite an amazing place isn't it?" he whispered in Verto's ear.
"I'll give you my opinion later," Verto said without turning. Inside the overly large castle, the corridors towered at least a hundred feet high and were wide enough to serve as a four-lane highway. For the first time, Verto finally spotted other people besides their small troop. They came in all shapes and sizes, all dressed in a similar white and purple dress robe. Most of them seemed human enough, but he noticed more than a few that resembled various animal species. He did his best to keep his eyes forward and not stare, but he couldn't completely help himself. A shining example of this was when he passed by a clearly female patron that looked like a cross between a human, a cat and a rabbit. She had long rabbit ears that stood up as if she were a cartoon, but she had sharp claws, a thin tail and narrowed vertical eyeballs much like a cat. Another staring target presented itself when Verto noticed a towering man of nearly ten feet with a horse's face, walking on two legs. His hands were most definitely hooves, but he walked like a human would. Verto shook off any more attempts to even look at others and just focused on keeping his path straight. The most overwhelming part was that all of the power levels he was able to sense were at or above his own, most of which were all in a relaxed state unlike him.
You'd think they could've sent an army to deal with Vang. A few of these people greeted or nodded to Venestra on the way by, some to Etarb as well. Every single one of them stared at Verto for at least a moment, many of which with some level of surprise. Enough that there were a few crashes while confirming that their eyes were still working and that Verto was real.
Verto grimaced slightly, Looks like I resemble Leira's long lost brother a lot more than I thought, great. They eventually turned right and into a fairly empty hallway before walking what felt like a mile past hundreds of doors. There were far, far less people here aside from dozens of guards posted along the way. A few of them were human in appearance, but most of them were split between large ten-foot crocodiles and eight-foot velociraptors in armor. Each guard had a massive axe, sword or spear on them, along with some sort of sidearm blade. The long walk eventually brought them to another large set of double doors, though vastly smaller than the first set.
Venestra finally turned around, "This is the council chamber, you and I will go on from here. Etarb, please escort Kibitoshin to his seat."
Etarb nodded and motioned Kibito to follow him, "Come Supreme Kai."
Venestra turned to the door and knocked twice before it opened up. Verto immediately noticed another set of gator guards covered in armor, easily handling the heavy doors. Inside was a small auditorium with a wide open middle with light shown on it. Along the edge of the floor was a half circle of stairs that led up high, further than the light seemed to reach. Verto could barely make out a double stacked row of thirteen seats with one throne-like chair just above the center set. Verto's eyes darted side to side as he followed Venestra through to the brightest part of the floor. He could already hear some low whispering despite the fact that each seat was spaced about a dozen feet apart. Only one seat was empty on the right side, which Verto assumed was likely Venestra's. Each seat featured a desk and a lamp as well as what appeared to be one guard for each council member, but beyond that the darkness hid the rest.
If it's anything like a Congress, they probably need the guards just to keep order among themselves. Venestra stopped a little past the floor's center, motioning Verto to stop on that spot instead.
She then cleared her throat, "Mister Chairman, honored council members, I present my grandson's successor, Verto." The throne moved forward and levitated off the balcony, revealing the Chairman. He appeared to be an elderly human that was likely in his last term. From his seated position, it was hard to tell how tall he was, though Verto was certain that his beard was at least three feet long. His energy was vast, but clearly not as strong as it could have been. His face was quite wrinkled and slightly discolored while his eyes were almost forced shut by age.
"Thank you Madam Venestra, you may be seated," he said with surprisingly strong and deep tone for someone so old. Venestra nodded, shooting Verto a quick glance before leaving the floor. The ailing Chairman's throne set itself down just in front of Verto, as if to make sure he had his full attention.
"Tell me young man, what do you think of your situation?" he asked.
Verto locked eyes with him, "I think you went through a lot of trouble to get me here, as did I."
"A cautious if not honest answer. Why do you think you're here today?" Verto's eyes shifted at even the slightest shuffling sound, suddenly feeling like he was under a microscope with all the attention of the chamber on him.
He took in a deep breath, "I don't know. I can only guess that you want me to join you, but you're not completely sure about me yet. I know you've probably been watching me for awhile."
"That is correct for the most part. The truth is that we've been watching for longer than you know, or can perceive. We would like to get your thoughts on some of the evidence we've gathered," the Chairman explained.
"Evidence? Of what? Is this a trial?" Verto asked in quick succession.
The elderly Chairman raised his aging hand, "Maintain your calm please, there is no need to panic. Yes this is a bit of a trial like one that you might recognize, but in other ways it is not. There isn't an incarceration awaiting you no matter the outcome. Please present the evidence on the large screen." A large video screen opened up above and behind him, displaying a younger looking Super Saiyan fighting against Majin Buu.
"As I've already said, we've been keeping an eye on you for some time. We certainly commend you for your bravery against a much stronger monster," the Chairman noted. The video did not show anything overly prudent other than Verto's couple of fights against Fat Buu and then Kid Buu.
"Bravery hardly matters. Mister Chairman, can we please skip ahead to the more prudent evidence?" another voice said, echoing in the chamber somewhat. Verto's eyes darted at the sound of this new voice, but he didn't turn, remembering what Venestra had said. He did think the voice sounded familiar though.
"All aspects of this case will be noted and examined, not just your extensive part of the investigation, Lord Razil. However, if you would like to present your analysis first, you may. It is, as you've pointed out many times, very crucial," the Chairman offered.
"It's more than crucial Mister Chairman. This boy is an unresolved, reckless, killing machine in the making. His few good deeds can be chalked up as deception to win favor." Verto bit his lip slightly in realization and was very, very tempted to turn to give the newcomer more than a few words, but the Chairman stepped ahead of him and kept his gaze on the video screen.
"No matter what you have to show us, everyone will have their turn to speak, the boy included. Now let's please take a look at his more violent tendencies, as you've told us about in excessive detail already," the Chairman said. The first set of images that popped up was quite graphic, and Verto grimaced when he saw them. The screen displayed his time in the past with Bardock's crew, specifically when they were sent to Planet Treme to put down a rebellion. Even though he had held back considerably that day, the rebels were still slaughtered quite easily. To his surprise though, the next clip featured the moment later in the day when he had saved many citizens from being wiped out by the Rebel's massive cannon.
The Chairman pulled out a small, remote-like device and paused the video, "Before we move on, I would like you to answer a question. Why did you risk exposure and save those people? You didn't know them and you certainly had no qualms about killing their rebellious counterparts."
Verto scowled slightly, "The rebel faction you speak of were oppressive, which I realize is ironic considering the government was allied with the tyrant that sent us. But whether I was on the other side or not, I would've done the same thing. They were turning that thing on civilians too, not just soldiers. I saved them because it was the right thing to do."
"Hmph, such a rehearsed answer. It's obvious that the rules were broken and that you've been prepared for this," Razil said from the left side of the chamber. Verto's head slowly turned to glare at the source of Razil's voice, but he was shrouded in the dark shadows produced by the large screen and pillars nearby. About the only thing Verto could see was his bald head.
The Chairman cleared his throat, snapping Verto back to his full attention, "Let us continue." Time skipped quickly, leading to an incident Verto barely recalled, the bar fight he had both started and ended on Planet Vegeta. Verto's heart leapt a bit at the sight of Fasha, but he knew he needed to control his emotions at this point and that ship had long sailed anyway. The video paused again just as Verto saw himself dispatch the pack of elites that had victimized Fasha that day in the bar.
The Chairman looked amused, "Quite chivalrous, aren't you lad?"
"I don't like bullies. Men who abuse women deserve that kind of beating. I would've done it again in a heartbeat," Verto answered with disdain.
"Yet later on you would attack a female that was making a sexual offer? I will not air that act in this chamber, but won't you admit that you are being hypocritical?" Razil asked with a snide tone.
Verto bit his lip again as frustration was already setting in, "We're talking about a situation where my body had gone through sudden changes and Saiyan women can be a little forceful sometimes. We had all been accidentally warped back in time and we were trying to keep our activities down so we didn't affect the timeline. I tried to let her off easy."
Razil snorted sharply, "Yet you were clearly not fighting any urges to search for a mate and you turn one down like that? If that isn't a sign of erratic behavior, I don't know what is."
"I'm sure I can show you a much better example of that, besides she lusted after me, not the other way around. And since you appear to have missed it, she was also the bullying type. She just ran into a brick wall. I don't think my crazy love life is any of your business though," Verto said.
"Listen well, monkey brat. Every aspect of you has been thoroughly examined by our intelligence team. What you do and why is the prime reason we've even allowing you to live at the moment. You should remember that before speaking out of turn," Razil warned.
"Obviously you missed some things, must be that crack intelligence team," Verto snapped back.
His facial expression had changed enough for the Chairman to step in, "Settle down young man. I will allow you to speak your mind in time. Answer without letting your emotions get out of control."
Verto gave the dark area around Razil a sharp glance before sighing heavily, "Sorry."
The Chairman then leaned over to whisper, "He is going to try and unravel you with your own anger, do not let him. Be patient and you will see that you're not the only one who is being watched here."
Verto's eyebrow hit the air in surprise, "What do you mean by that?"
The old man stepped back, "Please continue with your findings Lord Razil." Verto had expected the next display, when he had brutalized the past versions of Frieza and his henchmen. No one spoke until the scene of Verto ripping out Dodoria's heart was shown.
"Oh dear, that was bloody," the Chairman said.
"Quite a display boy. Why so much rage to those enemies? We've already seen some of your anger problems, but clearly you are an animal at heart, not fit to be part of any evolved culture. Have you anything to say to that?" Razil added.
"I regret some of that, but I don't regret killing them. They wouldn't have hesitated nor felt guilty about it given the chance," Verto replied.
"Earlier in that battle, you didn't take the initiative and chose to let the Saiyan prince die before you acted. Care to explain that?"
"Because I have respect for Vegeta, no matter which version of him. I know he would rather die on his feet than live on his knees. To rob him of the honor of fighting for his own freedom on his terms would be wrong. On top of that, he had ordered me not to interfere until his other self went down. That was one of the hardest things I've ever had to do. If it's all the same to you, we wished him and all the other Saiyans back with the Dragon Balls of that place," Verto reminded.
"It's been witnessed that you constantly disobey the Saiyan prince as often as you breathe. I think you just wanted him out of the way so you could then showoff to your new friends at the time. Does anyone here disagree with that assessment?" Razil asked in a louder tone. There was no answer from any other presence in the room, though the Chairman was the only one Verto could see clearly.
"As I thought. Next we will show the council how this boy blatantly violates the laws of the mortal and afterlife realms."
Verto scowled, Great, which part is this gonna be? The screen flashed and a slightly younger Verto appeared, facing off with the wizard Babidi and his made minion Freddy. Verto's eyebrow went up, They skipped the entire Zerg War? The scene progressed quickly, slowing only when Verto had nearly turned on Kibito and then of course when he had torched Freddy's evil soul, wiping him out with his Soul Blazer attack.
"I think this says enough, this boy will intentionally violate the laws of any realm he's in just for vengeance against a lowly, weak human at the bottom of Hell. He clearly shows no restraint and will upset the balance of the realm by eliminating the souls of even the most meager of enemies. Do we really want someone like this in our ranks? I think not, we would only be courting chaos and disorder," Razil continued. Again there was no response from anyone else in the room.
Verto was itching to say something at this point but managed to restrain himself, This prick is stacking the deck against me, but why?
The Chairman cleared his throat after nearly thirty seconds had gone by, "Do you have any more evidence to present Lord Razil?"
"I've barely begun Mister Chairman. There is enough to keep council in session for another week. Since we all have better things to do than waste our time on a lost cause, I shall finish with the following gem," Razil proclaimed. The scene changed to Verto and Frost on Frieza Planet number seventy-seven. It shifted between discussions with Frost and Bojack to fights with Chal and Frost, including a gruesome tornado of death when Verto had killed Frost's soldiers. Things moved quickly and almost seamlessly to battles with Ranot and the other Renegades, highlighted every time Verto had given in to his rage and used his Berserker form. The lasting image of Verto beating Ranot bloody when he had the chance stayed for a moment before the screen turned off.
"There you have it ladies and gentlemen. This boy has such a thirst for battle that he would conspire with his enemies and then turn on his allies. He switches sides so often that we can't even tell if he's good or evil. One thing we can determine though, he has no problem using his demon energies whenever it suits him, thankfully that power has not matured yet. It's also abundantly clear that if he doesn't get his way, it's kill or be killed. We cannot let such a deception and chaotic creature into our realm ever again. I now move to the final vote and I will push for banishment to the Demon Realm. An abomination like you deserves to be with his own kind," Razil declared.
Verto stood eerily still and raised his hand, "Can I speak yet?"
"If there is nothing further from Lord Razil, then by all means," the Chairman replied.
Razil scoffed, "The boy can say whatever lies he wants, they'll be the final words we have to suffer through."
Verto turned his head just slightly to look in Razil's direction, but still faced forward for the most part, "I couldn't help but notice how selective and edited these clips were. Real nice way to show your council all the bad with none of the good. I guess that's fine, I'm getting used to crap like that. I've learned not to expect nor give full disclosure of information."
"Oh I could have kept on going, but what would be the point of that?" Razil asked. Verto let a very slight smirk creep up on his face, Time to walk him in.
"I won't argue your point, I certainly want to be with people that understand me as much as I do them. And they would know that I would never turn against my friends. I can't say the same for you."
Razil kept right on going, "You say that and yet you conspire with their enemies, bargaining their lives just so you can fight more enemies."
"You're one to talk about conspiring. The last two enemies I fought both worked for you," Verto finally said. This produced more than a few whispers from the gallery, and Verto could sense the sudden anger from Razil.
"Don't try to put your faults off onto someone else, that trick won't work here," Razil claimed.
"Then why didn't you answer that one? I just called you out on your own bullshit," Verto said blatantly.
The Chairman ignored Verto's rude tone and turned to gaze up at Razil's position, "Your response to this accusation, Lord Razil?"
"It is obviously a ploy to continue his bad boy attitude by defying authority. He can spin his little tail as much as he wants, only the truth will mean anything," Razil replied.
"You want truth? I overheard the Saiyan Ranot speaking to you through a scouter, a device that can transmit over a very large distance. You wanted him to kill me and the guy I was sent to protect in that other dimension. The overseer of that realm came to us because that had happened and it had completely wrecked their timeline, thus he asked for our help. I wasn't the only one to overhear that either, one of the other Renegade Saiyans did as well. I recall mention of getting someone named Venestra kicked off a council. At that point I thought you two were discussing the ruling council of the Renegades, but the representative that also overheard it assured me that she had never heard of anyone named Venestra or Razil. Now that I've come here, I know which council is which. There was also mention of you wanting Ranot to stop looking for pieces for some sort of artifact, saying that his actions were very noticeable and that it was an impossible quest or something. I never figured that completely out, but if it has anything to do with him punching holes in the fabric of space and going into other dimensions, it would make sense considering what you people supposedly police. I have zero doubts though that you probably directed him to that world to change things," Verto finally paused to let things soak in, though the room was clearly intent on hearing more at this point.
Laughter eventually came down from Razil, "Hahahahaha, oh I haven't been entertained like that in a longtime! It's a very amusing piece of fiction. But how, pray tell, would these Saiyans have gotten through any breach in the dimensional walls? They can't breathe in space naturally, and any ship would be torn apart."
"You tell me, but that ship looked very advanced. Maybe you even gave Ranot the technology to do it. That rip in space did not look like it was supposed to be there."
"I'm sure it didn't. So tell us, how did you get to this mythical idea that I was involved with your other enemy? You have so many that it's difficult to keep track."
The Chairman cleared his aging throat, "First, can you describe the tear in space that you went through?"
"Mister Chairman, you can't seriously believe…" Razil started to say.
"Silence!" the Chairman shouted, "I will hear this boy out. Continue."
"It looked like a violent storm, just a lot bigger. You guys have the footage of me and Ranot fighting, that's where it took place. It was on that other Earth with tons of weak demons around and such. Otherwise I'm not sure I would've met him anytime soon," Verto answered.
The Chairman nodded, "Go on, what of the other incident you claim Lord Razil was present."
Razil dared to chuckle aloud, "Yes, please tell us where we supposedly met this time."
Verto smirked slightly, I get it, Razil is the crossexaminer but the Chairman is the judge and already knows or suspects that he's guilty of tampering. They wanted me to confirm it, an outsider that shouldn't know any of them. He must be the other person that interfered with the timelines just like Leira said. Well, no use going halfway.
"The other time was very recently during my second battle with Vang, a Shadow Hunter or whatever you call that type of demon. I had lured him away so my friends could use the cleansing sacred water to cure the Overmind's influence from the alternate timeline. That way they would help me against Vang, which they did. The plan almost fell apart though when Razil showed up in the middle of it and warned Vang about it. I can only assume that he was watching all along from here or wherever he spends his time."
Razil's mocking tone returned, "Oh, and I suppose I magically appeared out of thin air? I hope I looked presentable."
Verto snorted, "I wouldn't know."
"There, you heard it from the monkey's mouth! All lies!" Razil proclaimed.
Verto's eyebrow went up again, "What I meant was that I wouldn't know because I didn't see your whole face. All I could make out was a shiny bald head behind what looked like one of your portals." A smattering of low murmurs and whispers followed from the other council members, enough for Verto to know that he had gotten their full attention.
"Hmph, that hardly proves anything. Well over a third of our ranks are bald," Razil sneered back.
The Chairman turned, "So, you acknowledge that illegal interference took place?"
Verto could almost hear the sudden silent recoil from Razil, Got him.
"No, I don't acknowledge any of the guilty monkey's statements. I have not participated in anything he claims!" Razil said, though his tone had clearly changed.
"Lord Razil, may I remind you that I can sense lies before they are even told. I have detected several lies from this room in the past few minutes. And right now, every lie has come from your seat. Come forth and face your accuser!" the Chairman bellowed.
"Very well, Mister Chairman." Verto backed up a step as Lord Razil suddenly flew into view and landed closer than he would've preferred. The man was near seven feet tall with a bulky but still athletic build. His head was very smooth even for a bald man, though it had a slightly orange tint to it as if he had been out in the sun frequently. His robes were a mixture of crimson and black with a long black cape that extended from above his neck line all the way down to his knees. Menacing green eyes glared down at Verto, though his pointed nose covered some of them from that vantage point. Razil almost looked comical to Verto, if not for the power level he was sensing from the man. Razil carried with him a long staff with a clear crystalline ball on its top. Unsure of where this was going, Verto backed up a few more steps.
"What's wrong monkey boy, afraid? You should be," Razil laughed.
"That is enough of your disrespect Razil. If it continues, I will personally decide your fate. Now do you have anything to say in your defense? You are accused of high treason and illegal manipulation of mortal affairs as well as conspiring with our enemies. Seeing as one of those enemies supposedly tried to murder you before, it is very suspicious," the Chairman pointed out.
"I demand a trial by combat. Let a fight between me and this all-powerful runt decide things. Obviously the fair and balanced approach of this council has failed," Razil said, drawing more than a few looks.
Verto folded his arms in disgust, "That would hardly be fair. Now that the cat is out of the bag, you suddenly look for a way out?"
Razil grinned, "But isn't that what you want boy? Surely your blood must be on fire with the will to pound my face into mush. To beat me within an inch of my life. It's your way, the Saiyan way. Since when do you care about fairness?"
Verto's eyebrow went up again, "Since always, moron. Clearly you missed that during your report, among other things. You're pathetic, trying to draw me into a fight because you know I'm still weakened from the other day and can't use my full power. On an even field I'd bury you. I think I'd rather see what all your colleagues think of you screwing with the lives of billions of people in multiple places just to get your way."
"I think I speak for the council when I say that they wouldn't want such a cowardly recruit in our ranks. And a hot-headed monkey to boot. Very well, since you have conceded in a trial by combat, may we get this final vote over with Mister Chairman, fellow council members?" Razil asked in a victorious tone.
"You must practice preaching to the choir a lot. Can't imagine that actually works though," Verto remarked.
"Enough from you! Guards! Take this waste of time away!" Razil ordered.
The Chairman's cane tapped the ground loudly, "Belay that, remain at your posts. As you wish Razil, a vote will be cast before we do anything further…"
Razil nodded, "That's perfectly fine with…"
The Chairman quickly interrupted, "The vote concerns your status as a council member, Lord Razil!"
"What?! No! This meeting was called to discuss this runt's future. Any action against me is null and void because he conceded a trial by combat! It is the law!" Razil claimed in sudden desperation.
The Chairman's eyes opened just wide enough to give Razil an intense glare, "That law only applies to our people. He is not one of us, as you so plainly pointed out."
Verto didn't even try to hide his amusement, "Ouch, sucks to be you. I'd probably drown in lava before I could lower myself to the level of failure that you've achieved."
Razil gave Verto an overly intense stare, "No matter what happens boy, this won't end well for you."
Venestra's voice suddenly filled the chamber, "All those in favor of revoking Lord Razil's status?" Thirteen green lights suddenly lit up bright from various parts of the chamber, more than bright enough for Verto to see clearly.
"All those against?" Thirteen red lights filled the gaps in between the green ones, making it an even push.
Verto was stunned, A tie?
Another council member piped up suddenly, "Mister Chairman, may I remind you that in such a crucial and situational vote, you cannot cast your vote to break the deadlock, nor can Lord Razil. And I feel in this case, we must hear more. I suggest a very thorough investigation of the accused. We cannot ignore Lord Razil's service record."
The Chairman sighed heavily, "Very well, councilman Stonehawk, I concur. However seeing as Lord Razil's involvement directly affects this case, we should continue this discussion later after our collective thoughts have been refocused. I suggest we take a recess and reconvene later today."
"I agree," Stonehawk said.
"Very well," Venestra answered. The Chairman turned to sit back down on his throne, while Verto looked flustered.
"Are you kidding me? You're going to just sit on this?" Verto asked.
"Young man, you've displayed great honor and courage to bring us this information. Do not let your emotions spoil it. We all need time to reflect on this development," the Chairman said.
It wasn't enough to calm Verto down, "So one of your own breaks your own laws, interferes with countless lives in more than one dimension, blatantly lies to your face, and your decision is 'we'll think about it'? Are you fucking serious?"
The Chairman sat up in his seat, "I will not have a prudent choice be questioned by a rude, reckless little boy. Venestra, calm your prospect down and remind him of his place before the next meeting."
Venestra flew down in an instant with an apologetic expression, "I will, Chairman."
Verto planted his feet firmly into the ground, "I know my place old man. You yourself said I would be given the chance to speak my mind. Then give me that chance now instead of when it's convenient for you." The Chairman's eyes shot towards Verto, as did most of the room.
Venestra had an incredibly threatening look that she directed straight towards Verto, "That's enough boy!"
Razil couldn't help but chuckle, "Even when he gets an advantage, he's the type to throw it all away. Such pond scum doesn't deserve to be a Guardian."
Verto cast an unimpressed glance at Razil, "Who says I want to be one of you? You people screw with lives and timeline outcomes just to get what you want. And you do it in such a half-assed way. What is life to you, some sick game? 'Oh, how about we try and recruit this powerful being? Oh he's dead. Let's turn back time and make sure he's not! He's got strong friends too, let's recruit them all, whether they want in or not. Oh, next let's turn a monster loose and see how they deal with it. Oh, this monster is too much for them, let's turn back time again and create another enemy so he can take out the monster instead! Oh he won't? I guess the monster is going to run wild then, oh well!' Here's a fresh thought, how about you leave us the fuck alone?!" Verto stopped and caught his breath in exasperation, in full realization of his rude words and not caring who they affected. Razil looked like he was about to applaud, whereas Venestra looked like she was out for blood.
"My apologies Chairman, I'll personally remove this ungrateful brat from your sight," she said with clear disdain.
The old man grunted, "You'll do no such thing! I promised that he could speak his mind, so let him speak it! Now tell us more about this monster we supposedly unleashed."
Verto blinked in confusion, He couldn't tell that I was being sarcastic? All I did was indirectly reference both Frost and Lenz… Verto's thoughts skidded to a stop at the thoughts of Lenz, or rather her alter-ego Kaon. He remembered what Leira had said regarding how she shouldn't have run into her Counter-Balance so easily.
Wait a second, he thinks I was serious because I described a true set of events. The monster unleashed was Kaon, but the way he said it back to me actually says that the group as a whole didn't sign off on such a thing. Hell they might not even know, which means… He slowly turned towards Razil, realizing that the man that he wanted to find was standing right next to him.
Verto's eyeballs narrowed in shock and anger, That son of a bitch, he knows who is responsible!
"Go ahead boy, enlighten us with your vast array of knowledge. It's been fairly amusing so far," Razil mocked.
Verto's breathing slowed in an attempt to calm down, I can't snap on him, not if I want to get my point across. I'll save that bastard for another day when I'm not handicapped. But I can turn this little tidbit on him, maybe he'll even admit who did it before I beat it out of him.
Verto turned back to the Chairman, "Question, when you choose to interfere in a timeline, who decides where to plant the Counter-balance thing that is supposed to keep things from spiraling out of control?"
It was the old man's turn to blink, "You know about the Counter-balance?"
"I knew it, this boy is too well informed. The level of interference by Leira and her superior is well beyond her mission parameters!" Razil pointed out.
"You're one to talk about interference!" Venestra shouted back at him.
"Silence!" the Chairman bellowed again, "Young man, how did you come to know about the Counter-balance?"
Verto hesitated for only a moment, "Leira told me that it was how you people use your agents to ensure that the universe isn't thrown out of balance. The whole good and evil scale and all. Personally I think it's not a very good investment, as too many things can go wrong with it."
The Chairman kept his composure, "You're not wrong about that, but I sense that things didn't transpire completely. Venestra?"
"The Counter-balance scenario didn't take place to its predicted end, due in part to the Demonkin Vang and Lord Razil's suspected involvement. My granddaughter's encounter with it was very unexpected, as it resided in the body of a cursed Saiyan hybrid ordered destroyed. However, the boy came to care for that girl, not knowing what was within her until it was too late. Had the full scenario played out, we would've likely seen a rapid imbalance take place, and the likely result would've been the complete destruction of that realm. It seems more than just coincidence that the Counter-balance was in play so soon, even if the worst case scenario didn't pan out," Venestra explained.
"I see, that further raises questions about Lord Razil's unauthorized interference, seeing as he is in charge of making sure that the Counter-balance is placed randomly," the Chairman said. Verto's eyes shot towards the surprisingly calm Razil, whose cocky demeanor had yet to leave his face since Verto's initial outburst.
"I don't deny that. But the boy obviously needed a little adversity in order to grow up. Pity it hasn't happened yet," Razil said with an evil grin.
Verto's hair shifted slightly upwards as his energy stirred in intense anger, "You sick son of a bitch! You would be so low as to deliberately place that monster inside an innocent girl and completely ruin her life like that? I ought to wring your neck into the twisted worm you already are, at least the shape would match!"
"Oh now we're getting somewhere, you're burning with so much rage that you can't even get your insults out straight. Honestly, you really should be thanking me. Attachment is your only real weakness," Razil claimed. Verto's aura came on in full and he stepped towards Razil, only to be stopped by Venestra's hand.
"No, he's only egging you on so you act out violently, don't fall for it. You wouldn't be able to fight him in your current state," she warned.
"Ahem, Mister Chairman," Stonehawk's voice came in again, "I believe we have heard enough. All those in favor of Lord Razil's immediate discharge?" Twenty green lights came up green with only five red ones following them. The one not lit up belonged to Venestra since she was keeping Verto at bay.
"Guards, escort Lord Razil to the dungeons. Remove him from my sight now!" the Chairman ordered. Four heavy crocodile guards in armor came towards Razil, each with a large two-handed axe at the ready.
Razil smirked and held his staff up, "I'm afraid I won't be going to the dungeons. It's been fun, all these years, pretending to be part of the team. But I'll have to seek my goals elsewhere!" Razil twirled his long staff to keep the guards at bay before leaping over them and making for the exit.
"Stop him!" the Chairman shouted. Another set of reptilian guards filled the doorway as it opened, causing Razil to stop in his tracks. He put one hand on the crystal top of his staff and turned sharply. An eruption of hot energy burst from it as he directed it towards an empty wall. A portal to a fiery, barren land opened up there, flooding the chamber with warm air.
"He's trying to escape to the Demon Realm, stop him!" Venestra urged. Amongst the large scrambling guards, Verto darted through them and yanked Razil's cape, causing him to trip slightly.
Razil managed to recover and tore his cape off, kicking Verto away, "Little pest! I'll deal with you later!" When Razil looked up at the guards, he quickly realized someone was missing.
One of Venestra's swords suddenly slid under his chin, "You're not going anywhere!" Razil was quick to raise his staff to guard his neck as he slammed his head backwards into Venestra's. She fell away from the blow, clearing the path to the portal. As he moved towards it, bright blue light flooded the room from behind.
The source of the light was a Kamehameha nestled between Verto's hands, "Hey asshole, you'll deal with me now!" He fired, aiming at the portal in an attempt to cut Razil off. Unlike most targets, Razil jumped in front of the beam at the last second, which then pushed him through the portal.
"Damn, retrieve him!" Venestra shouted.
"Belay that, the portal is already closing. If we march through there, we'll break the treaty and start a war with the Demonkin!" the Chairman pointed out. Verto stopped channeling his beam as the fiery hole in the wall closed quickly, darkening the chamber once again.
"Good riddance," Verto spat.
"I think we can safely declare Razil a traitor and outlaw without another vote Mister Chairman. It could have been handled better though," Venestra said, casting an eye at Verto. The Chairman nodded slightly, and the guards vacated the chamber floors.
There was a hint of satisfaction in the air, prompting Verto to ask another question, "So you knew he was meddling in my affairs all along? Why didn't you toss him out sooner?"
"Only recently were we informed by Agent Leira that Lord Razil might have been tampering with the operation. We knew that somebody had been and gave Leira special permission to take things further in order to help us determine who might've been behind the events you experienced. In the past, Razil has been approached and attacked by Vang and other Demonkin many times. However this now appeared to be secret meetings that our operatives may have stumbled upon by accident. His involvement with the Saiyans is also a concern since the one named Ranot killed your predecessor. Only someone of Razil's rank and status would've been able to help him slip through time and space undetected. Mortals shouldn't have technology that allows them to not only travel but penetrate the boundaries between realms, which makes your entire life one full of interference that should not have happened. Razil has likely been feeding information to the Demon Realm for a long period of time as well," the Chairman explained.
"About the realm boundaries, would a magical being be able to do it? Like Babidi? Or the Overmind?" Verto asked.
The Chairman shook his head, "No, they likely discovered that tunnel by accident after one of Ranot's travels. Because of that, the Zerg invaded your realm, or should I say, your friend's realm? Either way you look at it, Ranot is responsible for much of your life since he killed the previous Verto and set this all in motion. Or at least whoever found him is."
"Whoever found him?" Verto asked, noting the vagueness in the Chairman's voice.
"Think of it like a pre-destined paradox where certain things that seem like they weren't supposed to happen end up occurring and the future is connected to the past in an unlikely way. It's best not to dwell on such things too much," the Chairman replied.
Verto sensed that he was trying to get off the topic and for once complied, "Okay, whatever. So what now? I helped you get rid of him, so what's next?"
"Be patient!" Venestra rasped at him.
The Chairman cleared his throat again, "Since the entire council is still here, we need to elect someone to take Razil's chair. I would nominate his protégé Etarb Erec, who has proven to be trustworthy many times."
"I'll second it, we should also decide the boy's fate. We never finished with all our findings," Venestra pointed out.
"That won't be necessary, I've seen enough. Because of the illegal interference, the test was incomplete. However, I feel this boy would do very well with us. He has a strong will and a fairly good heart as well. Verto, I hereby invite you to join the Guardians," the Chairman announced, "You're still very rough around the edges and have a bit of a temperament issue, especially with authority. But I feel that we can work around that. Agents Leira and Etarb Erec both speak very highly of you, as does Kibitoshin, the Supreme Overseer of your realm. You will be given any sort of training you want, be allowed to explore all avenues of your existence. Past, present and future will be open to you. No questions will go unanswered, no stone unturned. In time, your friends will also be invited to join us, so you won't be alone. Do you accept this honor?" Verto's eyes had been wide for most of the Chairman's words, and he almost spit out answer but stopped to think it over.
Verto stole a glance towards Venestra, who gave him a warmer smile and nodded, "It's okay to think it over." Truthfully, Verto didn't need to think it over; he had his answer well before the question was even asked. He looked straight at the Chairman's waiting eyes and made sure he spoke both loudly and clearly.
"No."