Dragonball Universe: The Hearts of Darkness Saga[IC]

[New Rnclave]

OOC

Dragonball Universe: The Heart of Darkness Saga

Introduction:

With the revival of the magician, Bonnie, and the repair of Luna, a newfound, yet fragile, peace settled across the Milk Way, and by extension, the wider Universe. But like with all things, the peace itself was flawed.

Following it's utter humiliation in the debacle surrounding the investigation of the Cyborg crisis, now former officers and politicians all came forward in connection the Tuffle Nabulus, each claiming their own reason for turning on the Earthlings, ranging from a general distrust of the Humans and their Saiyan allies, to revenge for the countless deaths caused by the Artifical Humans. Most surprising among the politicians ousted by the insiders, was Princess Kosia. And with the fuel they finally needed, a council of military leaders and high ranking senators rid the Galactic Alliance of the soon to be Queen.

A quick and mostly bloodless coup, barely a day went by before a new leader was chosen by the Galactic Parliament, the King of Planet Plant, Heleim taking the position of Prime Minister at the behest of an aging confidant. With a central government once more, the Galactic Alliance continues to stumble along like it did before, old rivalries and wounds threatening to tear the alliance apart, while the Galactic Patrol finds itself increasingly embroiled in the millions of people disappearing from their homes in broad daylight.

Inside the Milky Way, opposite of the wider universe, peace has bred happiness as people slowly return to their lives. Although begrudgingly, humanity has begun its journey to accept the God-like beings among them, especially as Luna works to paint them as protectors. However, even as peace begins, the monarchy of the United Earth ends. Following years of internal strife and bloodshed, the Mega-City of West and Central City are the first States to secede from the crown, Queen Serenity's following abdication only strengthening their resolve. Although free at last, the immediate World was chaotic, if no violent. Thousands perished while millions abaddoned Earth for Luna, the heavenly body providing only paltry aid to the new states, but like the peace it'd worked so hard to attain, the people of Earth soon accepted the new political situation of the planet, the restoration of various political freedoms and trade doing most of the talking.

But, despite all the peace reigning, darkness creeps along the edges of the universe, and infects the hearts of millions. Faraway from Earth, a fallen angel inches ever closer to his reclaiming what was stolen from him, ancient knowledge of the arcane and the secrets of the universe aiding him in finding the final key needed to begin his quest to fix the mistakes of the past.

Further away still, beyond the barrier of time and space, a God-Emperor forgotten to the pages of history cements its position as master of its own universe, every moment leading them closer to their perfect world.

And deep within the realm of Otherworld, a God of Destruction by actions instead of title, continues his quest to right a personal wrong, unintentionally setting the universe on a path of ultimate destruction...

[Britanania]

Spicer

And so, a year after Bonnie's revival life as it was continued. With the crisis on Earth reaching new levels and the ousted Serenity living on Luna with the rest of the former Earth nobles Amelia's life became busier than ever. Spicer, for his part, tried taking on a larger responsibility ruling with his wife and handled things as best he could. Whenever he wasn't holed up in meetings, he was training with the Cyborgs or with Tabbis as well as furthering Sage's training.

However, no matter how hard he trained Spicer found himself reaching a plateau.

Am I reaching the end of a Saiyan's ability to grow stronger? he thought after one day of intense training with the Cyborgs, as Spicer returned to his room as he read over his morning reports. No, that doesn't seem right Tabbis and Kuro have reached a new apogee of Saiyan power, and by now David likely has as well. What is holding me back?

Spicer's thoughts were interrupted as he picked up a holo-disc from the GA. Curiously, he put it in his computer and read the request for a meeting with the new regime. Spicer grumbled slightly as he finished reading, letting himself fall back into his chair.

"As if the meeting with the Tuffle Prince wasn't bad enough, now we need to explain his death to his father. Brilliant. Bloody brilliant."

[Sichem]

David Rothstein

While Earth was falling to chaos, the Rothstein house remained as one of the last strongholds of tranquility and calmness in a collapsing world. David hardly knew of the intricacies of all the political intrigue and conflict going on in the upper levels of the government, if he was even aware, but what he knew was that there were people to save, to protect, all around him. Of course, that didn't mean that he forgot to train - far from it. During the last year and a half, the determination within David's heart, created from the constant defeats and getting surpassed by his allies, pushed him far forward compared to even the previous four years.

What Tabbis and Kuro achieved was peculiar, indeed, and David was determined to not only reach, but also surpass what the other two Saiyans had unlocked.

Not everything in his life was training, though. He had an entire family to take care, in fact. But is it actually a family, though? With a towel placed at the side after cleaning away all the sweat after an exercise, David sat down on a chair next to the table in the living room. On the other side of the table, Saul was sitting and drawing. Drawing the person in front of him, it seemed.

"What are you doing there, Saul?" David quickly took notice of what was happening.

"Nothing."

"Well, you are doing something."

Saul didn't respond, and instead focused even more on the paper. He wasn't a fan of talking much, even if he was already getting quite adept about it. David didn't try to bother him anymore, and instead looked to his hand, where he was holding a small dark box. It didn't look like much, but it hosted a ring inside.

It's coming.

[Mundeo]

What was this past year?

Ever since that day, when Kuro believed Bonnie died and he achieved a new form of Super Saiyan, his life has been swept away in a storm of constant change—most of it for the better.

It really did start that day, or rather the day after. Bonnie was not herself, or rather not the self that Kuro had previously known. There was something different about her, something that was not like her that he felt when she first came back from the brink of death. As time went by, Kuro that feeling slowly grew within his stomach. It festered, whispering into his conscious: it isn't her. But it had to be her. The two lived together for the longest period of time that they have ever had. No fighting alien threats, no quarrels with the Galactic aliance. Nothing. For the longest period of time since he was born, Kuro actually felt peace. But that feeling still gnawed at him. It was as if she was showing a side of herself that Kuro never knew existed, and it almost felt alien to him.

Then, ten months went by, and the truth came out.

It was a magician's convention, she said, and she came with an alien. She called herself the Exile. Apparently, Bonnie was actually killed by Nablus, and this alien was there when that happened. Wanting to save herself from Kuro's potential rage, the Exile took on Bonnie's form to calm himself down. She didn't know what she was getting into, but she had no choice but to stay with Kuro until the Dragon Balls were active again and Bonnie can be revived—at least that was what she thought. When he first heard of this astonishing truth, he did not know how to feel. Angered? Overjoyed? Shocked? Ashamed? All of these brewed within him like a cyclone. He hadn't spoken to the Exile since that day, and although the Bonnie that he knew was back with him again, after so long, he felt like he was meeting someone else all over again.

Things have changed since then—a whole year of change.

Despite the façade of peace that was over Earth since it was restored, the Earth descended into chaos. As West and Central City broke off into its own independent state, Bonnie and Kuro's home fell into a world of crime once again. And so, the masked vigilante known as the Magician took to the streets once more, but she was not alone this time.

---

Kuro Hitsuji

Another day of teaching at North City University has come to an end. Kuro had no interest in getting himself tangled in the mess of politics, but he thought that he can still help this city through the power of education. That was one of the plus sides this time: when the whole world jumped off the deep end, some of the buildings were left standing, and people actually took an effort in rebuilding them. Most people just got up and left for Luna, though, but someone had to educate the remaining masses! Kuro was only an assistant, though, hopping around from physics to chemistry to chemical engineering to mechanical engineering and back to chemistry... he just couldn't decide which one to stick with!

That issue, however, was for a later time. There was someone, or rather three someones, that he had to say hello to.

[Narintia]

Aonori
A ruined landscape surrounded the Saiyan. Near to her and Salati's home, there had been a wasteland. Not knowing what to do, with this large,flat piece of land, she decided to use it for training purposes. She sat in the middle of it, her ki rising and falling.
Work through the pain... She thought as her aura suddenly reignited. Almost immediately it went back down again. She fell back to her knees, coughing heavily.
What happened?
Why am I becoming weaker?

Questions that would never be answered. she thought as she gritted her teeth. She flew into the sky to return home.

[The Rebel Alliances]

The Exile-21 yrs-Nuvian-Luna Castle
There was a time that I believed that having no obligations as a result of my exile would be liberating. To have nothing holding me back from anything I wanted to do. Or become whoever I wanted to be. But I have since discovered that such freedom can be a curse as much as a blessing. To have no purpose for which to live.

My time with Kuro on Earth had given me a purpose, for a time. But that always had an expiration date. After me and Bonnie told him the truth, I left. Knowing that I no longer served a purpose for him. After all, he had Bonnie. It's not as though he were angry or upset with me or told me not to come back, I just thougt it...proper. As I wondered through the corridors of Luna Castle reminiscently I thought of my time with Kuro back on Earth.

It was a couple months before I finally started to come around to him. Show him parts of myself that I hoped each day wouldn't give up my identity. First I invited him to a session of meditation, although I was unable to explain to him the importance such an exorcise held for my people I was able to convey how important it was to me. It wasn't long after before he caught me reading through an entire library of books, that one was harder to explain. Honestly I was just so curious about his world I wanted to know more. Then there was the time I showed him I could communicate with animals, I knew his girlfriend was a magician so I described it as a sort of magic but in reality I was using my telepathic link. Nature was always soothing to me. Then there were those more...intimate moments. I, was really uncomfortable the first time. I delayed it as long as I could, but I could hardly sell being the partner in a romantic relationship for ten months if I didn't show any interest. But, it wasn't all bad I suppose. Did I love Kuro? Do I? Perhaps. But it doesn't change anything. Life isn't a storybook where simply wanting something enough will grant it to you. So, after I left Kuro I travelled around Earth a bit before eventually coming here to Luna.

The Queen here was kind enough to house me until I figure out what it is that I want to do. And until now all that really included was practicing my abilities, studying Luna culture and sneaking out at night disguised as a human girl experiencing the 'night life' on Luna. There were often clubs, dance and other physical activities involved. It's the closest thing to having a normal life I have gotten to so far. I have even learned to suppress my power level. Meaning that if I was so inclined I could actually disappear in this society without any of the Saiyans detecting my presence.

There was a time where I considered becoming something of a protector. Guarding these worlds from threats both within and without. After all, with my abilities it only seemed natural. But as with my time with Kuro, it seems the position of hero is already filled as well. Seeing they have an entire team of warriors, both human and Saiyan far more capable than I to do their protecting. So...where does that leave me?

Tracing my hand along the cool walls as I circled the corner and entered the throne room. Still in the form of a young attractive blonde woman with soft eyes that I had grown rather attached to as a cover identity, for now at least. I used this face to go out again late last night. My kind can operate on three hours of sleep a day if we were so inclined. Our bodies are very adept at replenishing themselves. If I found myself envious of humans for anything, it was their genetic diversity.

Really, in the span of a month I have been a woman of european, african and east asian descent. With hair color and eye variation spanning from red to black and blonde. It gives each human such a unique look. While Nuvians certainly don't look exactly the same. We are all born shades of green and females have hair in variations of red while men are bald. But I suppose a human could feel jealous of our shape shifting ability or perhaps our powers of telekinesis which they lack themselves.

Finally reaching the throne room and catching sight of Queen Amelia I leaned up ever so slightlyvon a wall. Wondering what she wanted to discuss. Maybe she wanted to ask about my nightly excursions out of the castle, she certainly isn't a fool and while I doubt she noticed 'every' time I left I am certain she realized a few. Part of me was glad she called as I had wanted to speak to her myself. But I thought it best to let her go first.

"Pleasant evening Queen Amelia. So, what is our topic of discussion for today?" I asked, with a friendly smile.


The Exile

[Ranoria]

Ciel

At twenty seven years of age, there were, obviously, still a few things that were completely foreign to Ciel. Some of that may have been a result of living in a secluded, wooded area with a hermit where training and growing stronger had been everything. But at the same time, that didn't make certain topics any less frustrating for him to broach.

Fortunately, that's practically what older, more experienced people, namely Spicer, were around for.

Despite this, he stood in front of the battle-hardened general's door, hesitating slightly, knuckles a mere breath away from the wooden surface of the barrier, before proceeding to knock, a request for entrance, if nothing else.

[Britanania]

Spicer

Spicer was pouring some tea when he heard the knock on his door. He quizzically turned his head over and raised an eyebrow.

Who could that be?, the general though as he out the expensive china set down. "Just a moment," he called. Spicer didn't bother putting his shirt back on, his taunt, muscled, and scarred body ready to meet whomever was at the door. Opening it he was surprised to see Ciel there.

Ciel? He usually just likes to train. I never took him for the conservationist type

"Ciel, what brings you here?" he asked as he opened the door fully. "I was just pouring some tea. Do you want some?" he asked, gesturing towards the china set.

---

Amelia

It was another long afternoon for the Queen. Today it was delegates from the separatist city-state of West City, asking for trade rights. Amelia preferred to take a neutral stance to the conflicts and tensions on earth, and she was glad her keen business mind transferred well to leadership.

Has it really been a little over seven years?, the queen thought as the delegates left the room. She turned her head to see her daughter sitting in a chair, her long legs still not quite long enough to reach the bottom. Amelia smiled softly at Sage when she noticed the Exile had arrived. She bowed slightly during their greeting.

"I wanted to ask how you're adjusting to life here on Luna," she told the alien shape-shifter. "Especially after last year's events. I know you've been leaving the Palace and what you do on your own is completely up to you, but suffice it to say, perhaps it is the mother in me to worry," Amelia said with a laugh

[Sichem]

David Rothstein

Saul still wasn't used to flight, so David flew across the skies of North City slowly while holding the child in his arms to calm him down. Aonori has been pressuring him to begin training Saul, and while the Saiyan was trying to stay supportive of the idea - after all, with everyone constantly dying all around him, it was getting clear that he wasn't going to live forever, either - but he just couldn't get around to it. Saul was still so young!

David didn't actually know if Aonori was following him, he tried to tell her before setting out on this trip, but she seemed to have had a bad day...

Soon enough, the father and the son landed on the steps in front of Kuro and Bonnie's home, and David let go of Saul, letting him stand up on the coarse flooring. After fixing up his scarf - this is North City, after all - David pressed on the bell button next to the front door.

Kuro seemed excited to invite him for one reason or another - David was still not sure what, though. Nevertheless, he brought flowers for the couple anyway, keeping them behind his back.

[The Rebel Alliances]

The Exile-21 yrs-Nuvian-Luna Castle
So, she does know. It's just a confirmation of the expected. Amelia has been kind to me, many humans have. But as I ran my fingers through my golden hair I was reminded of the irony of my entire situation. I want to be accepted, and some such as Amelia and to a degree Kuro have...well, as much as they could. But the others? The millions of citizens out there? Many of them looked at my natural form as something they would rather see in a circus. So my solution? Well it boils down to a case where not even 'I' want to accept my natural form.

It's a large reason why I am constantly shifting into guises of attractive human women. If I perhaps wish to be human hard enough, then maybe they will see me as one? It was a lie.It is my beautiful lie. This society may be able to read, and possess technology, but socially they are still so primitive. Outcasting anyone who looks alien enough. Like me. I remember, days after I left Kuro and travelled the Earth. I did so in my own green skin. No one assaulted me with actual violence. But the looks, the sneers and the pointed laughter. It hurt worse than blades. So, I took to blending in.

I let out a deep sigh as I crossed my arms and took just a couple steps closer. "I had a mother once, it was...nice." I declared smiling at her, letting her know I appreciated her gesture. "I fit in well enough I suppose." I said informing her in a overly casual way to be addressing royalty. "When I look like this." I uttered admittedly.

Then I paced around her and gazed longingly out the windows and into the vibrant city below. Taking in a literally royal view of the horizon. "Your species has a deep fascination with appearances. That is my observation." i then turned slowly to look back at her. "Could I confess something? I always found myself envious of your Saiyan friends since I arrived here. They have the power to destroy planets and yet they can walk around quite freely as the Earthlings embrace them as their own." But now I felt I was droning too long.

"I am sorry Queen Amelia, I didn't mean to ramble. All you asked is how I am fitting in and I gave you a life story. Tell me, how have you and Sage been? I would like to know more about your day." I asked, as I attempted to deflect further questions and change the subject a little bit. And besides Amelia is a wonderful Queen and Sage a sweeet girl, hearing about both would be pleasant.

[Britanania]

Amelia

The Queen remained silent as the Exile spoke, allowing the younger woman to say her piece before Amelia injected or offered any advice. When she was finished, Amelia gestured to the table where Sage was doing her homework for the Exile to sit down. As Amelia sat, a servant arrived and poured tea for the trio before leaving.

"What you say about Saiyans is partially true," she conceded. "It is true they can mostly blend in, but not entirely. There are many people on Luna and Earth, and especially out in the galaxy who fear them for their power, and it has been a source of concern. Not to mention, the fact that many of them retain their tales." Amelia paused to take of sip of her tea.

"When Sage was born, I had her tail removed so she could live a normal life, but she's very much her father's daughter." The Queen glanced over to the Princess.

"Tell our friend about your day, Sage. It's all right, you can take a break." The child put her pencil down and smiled at the blonde alien.

"After training with daddy and Miss 18 and after school I played with Muffin a little," she said matter of factually, looking intently at the Exile's eyes.

[Camaalbakrius]

Botarah

Botarah chose to spend most of his days after the Tuffle attack meditating and attempting to hone his skills in the privacy of his own room, secluded from everyone else. Unfortunately for him, he continually came across the problem of his nightmares continually coming back to him.

They drove him crazier and crazier over time, nothing that hadn't happened before, Botarah was no stranger to going completely insane, in fact it practically happened every other week. But now that he had a daughter, his mental state actually mattered.

He couldn't meditate without thinking of the things he did to accomplish his petty revenge. After all that time, was it really even worth it? He didn''t care any more, he just needed to get out a bit.

Botarah decided to get a breath of fresh air, despite not having any lungs whatsoever. Hey, if it worked for other people, he might as well give it a try. He went outside and looked upon the gardens of the palace. It was nothing he hadn't seen before, but it was still quite extraordinary.

As Botarah looked out upon the garden, he was unaware of something strange sneaking up on him from behind. He heard nothing and was taken completely taken by surprise when a pair of pink hands grabbed him around the neck, causing Botarah to let out a quiet and brief scream of shock and was sent falling forward onto the ground.

"Daddy! Daddy! Play with me!" His daughter, Muffin, exclaimed as she hugged her father, who was on the ground. Botarah said in response, a slight sense of annoyance in his voice, "Muffin, how many times have I told you not to do that! I don't like it when you sneak up on me!"

Muffin only giggled in her childlike way and said "But it's so funny when you scream like that." Botarah picked up Muffin by her tiny pink foot and held her upside down, saying "I didn't scream, stop making things up!"

Muffin only laughed saying "Yes you did, you screamed like a baby!" Botarah managed to let out a half-smile at his giggling daughter and said "Alright, that was very funny kiddo, let's get you inside."

[Mundeo]

Kuro and Bonnie

Ding!

It appeared that the guests have arrived, and so soon after Kuro came home! It wasn't often that David and Aonori came over, or vice versa, so every opportunity was an exciting one.

A few moments David rang the doorbell, the door opened up to reveal the grinning Saiyan behind it. Kuro was dressed in a way that David had never seen: a black-and-gray plaid suit, with pants and shoes to match, and neatly-combed hair—as neat as you can make Saiyan hair be—slick with gel. He looked completely different from the Saiyan warrior that David and Aonori fought alongside over a year ago.

"David! Aonori! It's great to see you two again!" Kuro said with his ever-so-cheerful smile. At least his voice barely changed. "How have you two been?"

Before either had the chance to answer, someone else appeared under the doorway. It was Bonnie, looking much more recognizable than her Saiyan counterpart. She was wearing her usual casual clothing, but there was something else about her that seemed... different. Was it the bundle of cloth that was nestled in each arm? They weren't just cloth; when the magician walked up to greet the two Saiyans, a pair of small, glittering eyes stared out from each bundle. One pair was an emerald green, the other a saphire blue.

"It's been a long time, hasn't it?" Bonnie asked, four pairs of eyes now looking at David and Aonori.

[The Rebel Alliances]

The Exile-21 yrs-Nuvian-Luna Castle
Saiyans had tails? That was interesting, I don't recall seeing a Saiyan with a tail...but I have hardly met that many Saiyans. Reaching out for a sip of the tea that was poured for me I listened as Sage informed me of the activities of her day. The little girl had never broke eye contact with me as she told me how she trained with her Father and Miss 18. I mentally sighed, such a world is this that even children must learn the ways of combat. It made me think back to a time when I had considered joining the X Fighters. The group of powerful warriors who defended this world and Earth. "You must have been very pleased to spend time with your father, Sage. I remember my father well. He was a King, but he always made sure that we had time together." I told the little girl.

But with each passing day I found less and less to actually 'protect'. Humans are short lived, and violent as a species. Certainly, I have met individuals who were quite civilized. But in groups humanity is nearly something to be feared. Sure, things are improving on Earth from the squalor it once was. But everyday, somewhere, one human kills another. Steals from their neighbor or sometimes wage entire wars in the pursuit of death. Disease, poverty and violence....is that what we are protecting?

But...aside from the philosophical debate which held me back from deciding. There was a deeper, far more personal concern. If the strength of the Saiyans are any indication then new threats will be immensely more powerful than I. Powerful enough to strike pure dread...fear into me. Triggering an ancient mutation which was once necessary for the survival of my species. A mutation which will turn me into...a monster. It's not a side of me that I am eager to show off. Worse, in such a form I could end up hurting what few friends I have managed to make here.

Returning my attention to Amelia, I pondered for just a moment before finally deciding something that I have been considering for a while. I only hoped she accepted and if she did that she wouldn't be afraid of me, like everyone else on my planet. But she needed...no she deserved to know what kind of refugee she is hiding here. Only once she does can she make a informed decision on what to do with me. I exhaled deeply as I explained the real reason why I wanted to speak with her.

"Queen Amelia, you need to understand something about me. But it would be better if I showed you, rather than told you." I then proceeded to explain that statement. "My race are naturally empaths. I can show you my memories which will give you all you need all the information on me you need. There won't be any negative side effects on you aside from possibly a feeling of exhaustion. With your permission, I would like to share with you a secret that no one on this planet knows about me, not even Kuro whom I stayed with for nearly a year." With all of that said, I awaited the Queen's judgement on the matter.

[Castain]

Onigara

Onigara was at home with his family. Juno has grown up so much. He thought, as he saw his young girl playing with dolls. Normally, he would destroy the dolls and force her to train, but the least he could do for the family he had abandoned was not turn strict on them. He was itching to fight something, but family came first. Spending a few more hours with the girls, Onigara blasted off towards the Lunar palace. There were many earthlings who had moved to the moon, and it was getting crowded. He flew through crowds of people, and soon landed at the palace.

He went into the gravity room, moving swiftly past the royal guards and being sure to catch the attentions of some of the more notable fighters who might have wanted to spar with him. He would NEED the training.

[Britanania]

Amelia

The Queen stayed silent as Sage told their alien guest about her day. Amelia merely enjoyed her tea with a smile on her face, closing her eyes.

This is nice, isn't it? No battles or threats, just us living like people. That reminds me, I need to send Kuro and Bonnie a card and--

Amelia's thoughts were interrupted when the Exile spoke directly at her again. As she processed her guest's words, Amelia slowly placed the cup down on its saucer, inhaling and exhaling slowly.

What could she mean? Perhaps it's her name, or the reason why she came to Luna in the first place?, Amelia wondered before answering.

"You have my permission," she began, 'if this is important for you."

[Sichem]

David Rothstein

Kuro was quick to open the door and let David and Aonori in, and from the very start the Saiyan found that something was amiss. Kuro was in a suit, far more cheerful than ever, he even used hair gel for this occasion. Why would a Saiyan need hair gel? Their hair stands up and remains static by nature... David moved his left arm from his back and was ready to gift the flower banquet, but Bonnie cut off this plan by appearing out of nowhere with...

With children.

Children.

Damn, how could I not tell before? On the other hand, I didn't know about Saul until midway through the pregnancy, either...

Speaking of Saul, he had been holding tight onto his father's jeans throughout the conversation, worried about the scary unknown people in front of them, but now that the situation calmed down, curiosity finally set in, and the child walked over the doorstep, pointing towards the blankets in Bonnie's arms and asking:

"Dad, are these dolls for me?"

David, who was previously standing there shocked for a few minutes with a half widened jaw, finally woke up from his thoughts thanks to that question, and he slowly muttered:

"N-no, Saul, those are not dolls, they are children..." David then blinked for a few seconds before turning towards Kuro. "Well, I suppose I should've brought a more practical gift in hindsight, buut... I didn't. Congratulations!" he said, kissing first Kuro and then Bonnie in the cheeks.

[The Rebel Alliances]

The Exile-21 yrs-Nuvian-Luna Castle
Part of me had expected or rather wanted her to decline. Once I show her my secret, the cause of my exile...there was no taking it back. Nor of any way to know how she would react. Would she look at me the same? Or be fearful to have me around Sage? Perhaps even exile me once more? There was just no way of knowing until I showed her. I breathed heavily, clearly nervous about the ritual but was grateful that Sage would not be none the wiser to what was about to happen.

Closing my eyes I started to focus as I advised Amelia to clear her mind. Linking our consciousness I then revealed to her the memories that I had hoped I wouldn't need to reveal to anyone.

There was a young girl, standing against the backdrop of a red, desert like landscape. The warmth of the sun shining fiercely across the sky. Nearly blinding to a human eye. The being was unmistakably the girl known to the Queen as The Exile just several years ago. A brilliant and warm smile competing with the sun for attention over the rocky landscape. She wasn't alone, a escort was with her. Older, taller and devoid of hair this was a male of her species. As the man took a look behind them there was a small settlement nestled into the base of a mountain which made the tallest peaks of Earth look like hills with a valley of rocky desert beyond it.

"My lady, we must be getting back. There have been reports of unusually violent grixen of late. I have already taken you much farther than your parents would have liked. Lets save further exploration for another time." It was apparent that the young princess didn't like the idea, but ultimately decided that he was right and compliance was beneficial. "Of course, but promise me you will show me some of the wildlife on our world soon, I don't get to experience much outside the temple." Then with a warm smile he agreed to the pact just as a screeching howl cracked through the sky. Then like a flood a swarm of wolf like creatures with moist skin and sharp fangs with four eyes covered the hill and descended quickly atop the couple.

The larger man had prepared to defend the two of them but as the grixen flooded around and past them it became clear. That they were not 'hunting' but 'fleeing'. The ground began to shake and while the Princess fell down on her hands and knees, her guardian turned and pulled her up yelling for her to leave. As he did so the source of the panic emerged from the very earth, a large crab like creature the size of a four story building erupted from beneath them and within moments had devoured her protector.

The terror was stained across the young woman's features as she was thrown from atop of the beast and landed hard upon the rock. The monster known as a Kruxxon descended upon her. But as certain death rained upon her to quickly to escape, her eyes shot red as her form began to change shape, painfully so. The beautiful rust colored hair disappeared as bony cranium shaped itself larger and wider than before. Her smooth emerald skin lost it's color and became a sickly white. Jawline adapted into something resembling an apex predator as her teeth fashioned themselves into something resembling knives. And the woman who was just roughly five feet and ten inches suddenly became in excess of nine feet tall. All semblance of the beautiful young girl was gone and replaced by an apex monster which leaped up at the Kruxxon which still looked like a whale next to a man. But the white monster latched onto a horn atop the head of the beast and casually ripped the antannae from it's perch casting it aside as it let loose a blood thirsty roar. A battle between the two forces unfolded as their battle crept slowly closer to the settlement.

Finally, with the Kruxxon felled, in a bloody lump of parts just outside the settlement where now Nuvians in a panic were attempting to flee. The pale beast turned it's attention to it's own kind, mindlessly ripping helpless Nuvians in half and gutting others with bloodied death claws. Some resisted, harnessing telekinesis to fight back, but the unstoppable onslaught contined. Tearing through buildings and citizens alike as the sounds of screams for help and pleas of mercy filled the air. Until....there was silence.

Standing in the middle of the smoke, blood, debris and death the creature looked around, and found no threats left. With it's heart rate decreasing it started to revert back into it's prior form. But the woman that emerged from the beast, seeing what was apparently the results of her own doing. Tears as thick as rivers cascading down her smoke and blood stained face she collapsed to the ground in a fit of whimpers, alone waiting for someone to help her. Tell her that everything would be alright.

That the murder of more than three thousand Nuvian men, women and children was not her fault.

With the memory concluded The Exile hastily apologized. "I...I am so sorry you had to see that. But I, just didn't know any way to explain it to you. What you saw was...the results of a mutation within my Nuvian genome that has existed since our ancient times. As you saw, our world is filled with deadly predators, and there was a time when the...abilities, that are now taken for granted by every Nuvian...hadn't awoken yet in us as a species. As a result whenever we find ourselves in what you would call a fight or flight situation. We would become the deadliest predator on our world. Until the threats are...dealt with. It was for a time a...necessary safeguard so we could survive and evolve as a species." I explained to Amelia, trying to add context to what she witnessed.

"But as our society advanced and our other genetic gifts evolved. Such a mutation became unnecessary. So, what was once considered a gift for our survival is now a curse." Then, with tears filling my eyes I brushed them away with the back of my hand. "People like me...who possess this active mutation...they hunt us. Amelia, they kill my kind. As you saw, just one outbreak can cause the deaths of thousands. So whenever one is discovered to bear this trait we are killed off before they ever mature. Out of fear. I am from the Royal line, if it was ever discovered that an heir to the throne was like...me. It would cause the ruination of the entire royal line. So...my parents sent me away. Stripped me of my name and gave me a ship in secret as they told the world I tragically fell ill. You now know almost everything about me. So..."

Then, after a moment of silence I finally spoke up once more.

"What will you do with me now?"

[Camaalbakrius]

Botarah

As Botarah looked out over the garden, he thought back on that day when the mysterious man appeared and offered him something that he desperately wanted, and something that changed his life.

The figure offered him a second chance, a way to make sure that nobody he loved would be harmed again. Botarah could not resist, for the protection of his daughter was the most important thing to him.

He had been in contact with the figure, called Atum, ever since that day. He would speak to him often and Atum would tell him that he would be led to someone who could give him the power to protect the ones he loved forever.

As Botarah thought about this, he began to think more and more of how much he desired this power, and how much he was willing to do in order to obtain it. Nothing would harm his family ever again. He would have the power to protect the ones he loved for the rest of eternity, and nothing would be able to stop him.

[Britanania]

Amelia

The sensation of the Exile sharing her past with the Lunar Queen was exhilarating. Amelia felt every moment, every emotion, of her new friend as it happened in the memory. When the Exile pulled back and Amelia returned to her reality, she felt out of breath and was breathing heavily. The entire experience, it seemed, took very little time, for Sage put her pen down and asked her mother what was wrong.

"It's all right," she told the child before reaching for her tea and taking a sip as she processed the experience. Amelia's hands were still shaking as sh slowly put the cup on its saucer.

"What will you do with me now?", she had asked. After another pause and another sip of team, Amelia smiled.

"Let you live here, of course."

[Sichem]

Last time on Saul's arc

Time Patrol Saul

"Fifteen years... Fifteen years I have to deal with you, the pain you caused, the horror..." Aonori was starting to speak, rising up from her kneeling position, getting surrounded by a dark blue sparkling aura. The ground was starting to tremble, and even the two Sauls felt the shockwaves reaching them. "You keep coming here, taking away everything I love, unflinching, unmoving... You are dead to me, Salati..."

It didn't take long for the speech to reach it's natural conclusion, and Saul was well aware of what this was developing towards. Soon, the aura around Aonori's body grew more and more intense, the ground began cracking from the pressure caused by the emitted energy, and just a few moments later, a burst of golden energy followed.

No, no, no! Mom was not supposed to become a Super Saiyan in this timeline! It was getting clear that no matter what Saul did now, this timeline will forever be changed. The only thing left to do was to somehow salvage it, make sure it stays on the right track even with these different conditions. And just as a stroke of luck, the device in Future Saul's hands began buzzing, the singular antenna was picking up a signal, it seems!

"Mister, mister!" Future Saul exclaimed. "They're alive! They're alive!"

Oh thank god. This timeline is not completely ruined. the Patroller thought, picking Future Saul up and flying away. His younger self pressed on a button on the side, then spoke:

"Hello? Anyone there? Can you hear me?"

"Saul? Thank goodness, at least you're alive." It was Amelia's voice.

"So far, at least..." Saul looked to the side for a few seconds, not sure how to continue. Usually, he lacked the bravery to talk to relative strangers. "You're alive, too..."

"Indeed. The Super Saiyan bombed us heavily yesterday, but the bunker is more or less intact, same with the time machine. How could he get our location, though?.. Darrek certainly couldn't have given it away, even under torture. Buy at least we're all alright"

"..."

"Is anything wrong?"

"...I think Mom won't be alright."

"Oh. Oh, darn, well that's a big problem. I think we should be operational within a few hours, however, so make sure to hurry."

Transmission off.

"I think there might still be hope..." Future Saul muttered, putting the device back in his pocket. "Could you, um, I don't even know how to ask this... uh... carry me to West City?"

Time Patrol Saul looked down, still holding his younger counterpart in his hands. No, this was not going to pass. This should have been an important moment in my life. I remember - I was running away from the Saiyan, and in all the fear and adrenaline, I somehow managed to fly... If my future self doesn't discover his inner strength, he'll never be able to set this history right.

"Sorry, Saul. You're on your own."

"H-huh?"

Still flying over three kilometers above surface, Time Patrol Saul suddenly let go, letting his younger self fall towards the ground at breakneck speed. Ignoring the screams of fear.

He'll live. He'll find a way. And now, to make sure my mother isn't any more successful than she should be...

Saul turned around mid-flying, zooming towards the battlefield. High amounts of energy were being released constantly, indicating that a battle was going on. But something suddenly changed. The Super Saiyan's power level began to suddenly spike, increasing far past what Saul thought was believable for this time period, and the change in weather reflected it - clouds began to gather, turning dark, shaking with thunderstorms.

Whatever was going on there, it was a yet another change in history that had to be stopped.

[The Rebel Alliances]

The Exile-21 yrs-Nuvian-Luna Castle
Was...was she serious? She understood everything I showed her. She had to, it's why I showed her my memories directly. So there could be no misunderstanding. And yet, her only reaction was...unconventional acceptance? Looking to her hands which were still shaking I couldn't tell if it was from fear or exhaustion from the melding. No, her feelings are genuine. I cannot sense any foul intent behind her, so it's just a sign of the initial shock most likely.

She didn't even seem nervous to have me around her child.

Perhaps...I have misjudged her kind. My own race, for all of our civilization. Our codes. We pride ourselves on a society which has almost a complete absence of crime or violence. Technology which sustains our world rather than drives it's destruction. And a professed love of peace and understanding. But when faced with one like me, one who is different...in need of learning how to contain our condition. They wouldn't hesitate to kill me if given the chance. The odds of a Nuvian being born with my mutation are 1 in a 1,000. So in estimation our rulers locate and kill at least tens of thousands. For being different...and dangerous.

But this human woman, is willing to risk not only her own safety but that of her kingdom and child. And not suggest a single restriction upon me. It's a display of a concept that I fear may have been lost to my people.

Faith.

I bit my lip just slightly as I stood up from the table and gave a slight bow. My voice just above a whisper as I choked up on joy for just a moment.

"Thank you."

And with those very simple words I could see that there was little more that could be said. Changing into my green form again I flashed her a genuine smile as I excused myself. I needed to ensure that the Queen's faith in me is not misplaced. To be certain that I would never again give into fear and allow myself to become that...monster.

Because for the first time in what seemed like a lifetime, I now had someone who accepted me, as I am. And that's a start.

[Britanania]

Spicer and Amelia

"Are you sure it's all right, leaving her alone?"

"Spicer you worry too much. Besides, Tabella, 17, 18, and the Exile are all there to make sure she's all right, not to mention Ciel. You have nothing to worry about."

The King-Consort of Luna vocalised a low growl as he folded his arms across his chest. Amelia smiled softly as she read over the dossier on the President of the Galactic Alliance.

"It doesn't help that this President is the brother of the Tuffle Kuro beat to hell," Spicer admitted. "The fact that he's making us go all the way to Planet Horus, without any other backup reeks like a trap to me."

"You just can't shake your warrior's edge, can you?" She teasingly said, causing Spicer to growl more.

"Over 35 years of PTO training will do that," he barked before sighing and relaxing. Spicer looked out of the window to watch the stars move in white streaks.

It also doesn't help that I can't shake this feeling that I'm past my prime. Most Saiyans haven't lived as long as me. My own father, dead by 30, Babos and Brussel in their early 40s. Is that why--

Spicer's thoughts were interrupted by the sudden halt of the ship as it exited light-speed, their destination finally reached. Amelia reached over and touched her's husbands knee.

"We're here. Try to behave," she added with a wink.

[Sichem]

King Heleim

A compromise candidate, they said. It'll be fine, they said.

The sun was setting on Planet Horus, the light coming through the empty main hall's windows was dimming, and less and less of it was touching on King Heleim's cheek - now not merely a King of the Tuffles, but the President of the entire Galactic Alliance... somehow.

The Tuffles were never interested in the dealings, chaos and corruption of the GA. After the fall of the Arcosian empires, Planet Plant was one of the first worlds to break away and start the chain that led to the collapse of order in the whole galaxy. It was already somewhat autonomous, it already had a government, no need to create it from scratch, so independence was merely a formality. But the Tuffles did not trust the newly founded Galactic Alliance - It sounded suspiciously similar to the PTO of old to them, and they had no interest in participating in all those civil wars plaguing it.

Even today, the Kingdom of the Tuffles is not a full pledged member of the GA, and remains as an associate. Which one made Heleim's election as President all the more surprising and controversial. Not that Heleim himself cared much about all the intrigue and chaos going on - he put up a small list of things to do in this position. First, try to at least keep up order. Second, funnel as many resources and money to his kingdom. Third, keep up a smile.

But now something unexpected was happening. Heleim was expecting visitors. From a planet apparently called "Earth". And it had to deal with Prince Nablus's unfortunate death.

Nablus was always a wayward brother. Being a younger brother to Prince Heleim, he never expected to gain the crown, so he eventually left the planet to search for his own destiny. Serving in the Ultra Corps didn't excite him, working for the new King didn't, either (their relationship was somewhat cold), so Nablus eventually ended up as a private investigator, a detective, and eventually he got hired by the GA and sent to Earth to investigate the origins of the Android threat. And then...

Heleim didn't really take his brother for one willing to start fights during his job, but that's what all reports tell - Nablus and the Earthlings entered a clash, during which the Tuffle was killed. But that couldn't be right! The Tuffle needed more evidence.

And luck was on his side, because he wouldn't have to wait any longer. The front door was opened, held up by a number of soldiers, and a few figures entered the room.

"President Heleim, the people you've requested have arrived. Queen Amelia and King Consort Spicer of Luna." one of the soldiers spoke, and turned in the lights in the dimming empty room. Heleim stood up from his seat, walking up to the two Lunarians while saying:

"Who are you? How did you kill a Tuffle?"

[Britanania]

Spicer and Amelia

Planet Horus, a place I never wanted to return, but here I am two and a half years after fighting the Androids and nearly two decades since the Gelid's death arriving at this forsaken resort.

Almost immediately upon arrival the royal couple were shown into the Palace. Even though no Arcosian had stepped foot on Horus since the passing of Frost, Glacia, and Arctica's father the pleasure dome of the PTO looked eerily the same, aside from a few touches from the GA and the new Tuffle President of course. As they were escorted into the Throne Room, Spicer looked around and felt ghosts from his past returning. As if by telepathy, Amelia grabbed the Saiyan's hand and smiled in his direction before they finally entered Heleim's sanctum and were formally announced. Spicer bowed and Amelia curtsied but no sooner had their made the gesture had the Tuffle King began speaking.

Well these egg-head technocrats were never the type for decorum, Spicer mused as he winced slightly, whilst Amelia made the first diplomatic moves.

"Your Excellency, we come here on peaceful terms and for the purpose of establishing a--"

"Save it, Amelia," Spicer interjected as he took a few steps forward, his armour glistening in the twilight and his scarlet cloak moving behind him. "Heleim doesn't seem like the type for these pleasantries. The Tuffles are a practical people, a business people," he said, looking back at his wife before starring into the President's eyes, the Saiyan standing several heads taller than his Tuffle counterpart.

"My kinsmen did so," Spicer explained. "He overpowered and beat your brother on the ground until there was nothing left," the Saiyan stated bluntly. "I stood by and watched as Kuro did so, unable and unwilling to intervene because Nablus killed Kuro's mate. Truth be told," he added with a slight chuckle, "I envied Kuro. Nablus' attack threatened my home and my family."