28The system Artic, Polaris' oldest son, occupied was composed of 7 planets and a single star. Of these planets only one has an meaningful life, with the rest being used for research or automated security outposts. Artic had come to this system when he was about 100 years old, having until that point assisted his father with his own conquests.
Artic had hoped to find something worth his while. A population that would put up a decent fight against him and his men, or perhaps he would even have the chance to step in and handle them himself. This thought had amused and excited him greatly. That was why when he arrived at the only inhabited planet, which the natives called Mae, he was very disappointed.
Mae only had a single continent, with several small islands scattered about it. It was home to several kinds of creature, but only some could be said to be intelligent. These involved some kinds of Dryads, intelligent types of Treants, among other races that had a very deep connection with nature. Above all these were the Mae People, as they liked to call themselves. Artic and his men would at first have called them elves as they had many similarities. The Mae People, had the characteristic long ears and extended lifespan, with the existence of ways that could allow them to live for thousands of years without any issue. However, not many were able to use it.
Unlike other elven races, they all had bluish skin, black hair, and white eyes. The Mae people, or as the Empire also calls them Mae Elves, had at the time a very simple and almost primitive culture, having not changed much after the arrival of the Empire as they did not wish to do so. They are characterized by their deep connection to nature and the planet where they live, this connection leads to making them formidable druids, even if they are not predisposed to violence.
It was this that led to their almost immediate surrender in the face of Artic and his men, as they were able to understand their powerlessness before them. Something that at the time actually angered Artic to some extent, but eventually he calmed down and found himself growing more and more interested in these people, how they viewed their world, and their abilities. They eventually told him about Laoshe, the great and powerful dragon that inhabited their moon.
According to their legends and history, it was the last of its kind, from an era where dragons used to rule the land. They said that it would come from time to time to attack and feast on whatever he could find, returning to his home when it was satisfied. This being the reason why the Mae People were never too many in numbers. This somewhat got Artic's attention as he decided to wait for Laoshe to attack again. When he did, the Frost Demon went to confront him himself, and proceeded to defeat the all powerful dragon with no real effort involved.
Nevertheless, Artic decided to remain on the planet. Years went by, and it did not seem he was going to be leaving anytime soon. After all, his men found him conversing with the leaders of the different tribes often with a tone they did not expect from someone of his standing. Sometimes they would find him mediating, or doing some kind of training with the elves, as if he was one of them and not their ruler.
Polaris was at first bothered by this, but convincing himself this was just a new hobby his son had picked up and did not mind, certain that he would return eventually. Years, turned into decades, and decades turned into centuries, and Artic had never left the planet, and had become rather defensive of its people. So much so that he only allowed 4 bases to be built upon it, much smaller then they normally were, and in areas where it would not affect the surrounding environment. At this point the only members of the Empire that would stay on-planet were those that had to maintain the bases, take care of any crew that happened to stop at the planet, Artic himself, and one named Citron.
Citron was a massive and somewhat muscular individual with the appearance of a human, with orange eyes, bald head, and a large black Chinese style mustache. He was the descendant of one of the elite warriors that had accompanied Polaris in the transfer, and his line had been kept strong and loyal during all these years. So much so that Citron through genetics, potential and training, was now the strongest soldier in the Empire, not counting Tanya when she is in her transformed state. Even so, the different between him and her once transformed, was not as big as the difference between him and the second strongest warrior.
This top warrior was tasked with only one thing by his Emperor: to look over Artic in the place of the several soldiers that would normally accompany a Frost Demon. Citron had naturally accepted this task, and spent the last few years rather bored. It was true that he was able to train with Artic from time to time, but outside of that honor he had nothing else to do. That was why he eventually formed a family with one of the women in the village he was stationed in, which was the closest one from where Artic usually tended to stay. He had already fathered 4 strong children, and as long as he was not reprimanded by it or his wife went against it, he was planning on having a few more.
One day, as he was training with his 2 eldest sons, his scouter went off with the sound of an important message. Something that had not happened in years. His sons were somewhat puzzled by this. Even more so when their father's expression turned rather serious.
"You two stay here. I'm going to go check on Lord Artic."
With that he was off, going to find the Frost Demon who had a tendency to isolate himself like some kind of hermit. Thanks to his scouter, Citron did not take long to find his superior. Even if the location was in the middle of nowhere, in some dark and difficultly traversed forest, where in the center rested a massive, over 100 meter tall, dead Treant which was now nothing more than a husk. This time Artic was not inside the husk, which he seemed to use as a home most of the time. Instead, he was near a rather large lake.
As Citron approached the location he was surprised by what he saw, even if it was something he had already seen before. Even if it paled in comparison to other things Artic was able to do with his race's telekinetic abilities. Artic had lifted all of the water out of the lake, not letting a single drop spill, and had shaped into a massive ball. The Frost Demon was now in the process of setting the water back down, as he had sensed the approach of Citron.
Landing several feet behind his Lord, Citron was greeted by Syllis, a female Mae Elf who sometimes worked as Artic's attendant. Getting closer to the Frost Demon he was then greeted by an ancient looking elf, one of those whose connection to the planet was so great and so well crafted that he had long ago surpassed his race's age limit. His name was Boel and he, according to Artic, was the Frost Demon's mentor. The one who had taught him everything that made what Citron had just witnessed possible.
Not only this but it was thanks to Boel, Artic had also gained control over his power and made himself stronger. To the point that with his father and brother in weaker forms, he was at the moment the strongest in the Empire. Finally, Citron reached Artic who was floating in the air in a mediating position, the Frost Demon stood as tall as the average human, with a very athletic body, that was colored porcelain white. His eyes were red and, on his head, rested a blue colored orb.
"Why have you disturbed me, Citron?" Artic asked in a calm tone.
"I apologize, my Lord. But we have detected an object going past your system."
"And? What of it?"
"It is traveling at great speeds. Even faster than our ships. The readings indicate that it is not a natural occurrence, and might be a vessel. We did not get a good read on it, but there were signs of a powerful being onboard."
"How powerful?" Artic asked in curiosity.
"At least as strong as your brother. But they went out of range before the reading could be completed."
"Hmm... Did we get a possible trajectory?"
"It seemed to be going in the same direction as the Emperor went." Citron informed, this getting Artic's attention.
"And this worries you?" He asked.
"Y-Yes. I know it is foolish, but something tells me, there might be more to this then we know."
"And you wish to do something about this?"
"Perhaps... we could look into it."
"I see... But that would involve leaving the planet… What do you think, Boel?"
"You are more than free to do as you wish. Your power, intelligence, and experience are more than enough to handle any possible issue." His master replied.
"What about you, Syllis?"
"I-I think that your lordship is free to do as he wishes." She replied, looking somewhat flustered.
"Very well. Citron, I will listen to your concerns. We will go after this object and ascertain if your worries are justified." Artic informed, slowly dropping back to the ground.
"As you wish. I will have a ship and crew prepared for you right away." Citron said with a bow.
"No need. It will be just the two of us. Anything else would take too long. That being said we will only need two pods."
"B-But those are for emergency situations and not suitable for you…" The warrior tried to argue, but his superior was having none of it.
"They are faster, and quicker to get ready. If that object is as fast as you say, we do not have much time."
"M-My Lord, if I may, who will protect us?" Syllis asked, with some concern in her voice.
"Activate my training golems. They are at a 100% power, and more than enough to deal with any threat."
Citron gulped at this. Even if he was much stronger than these golems, and could take on all of them, they were still a formidable force. They were comprised of about 20 golems made out of the best materials, carved in the shape of Artic, and all of them being able to use generic versions of the Frost Demon's attacks. All in all, they could easily destroy many of the armies of the planets under the Empire's control.
"As you wish." She remarked with a bow as Citron and Artic left.
This object, which would soon be chased after by Artic and Citron, was not the only thing approaching the planet Polaris was on. Another ship of the Empire was just a few hours away from landing. This one belonging to Hail, the youngest son, and someone who was too curious for his own good. Having decided to dismiss his father's advice to go and visit the worlds he had already conquered, in favor of also exploring this new world. Of course, hopefully without his father getting wind of this too early on.
Hail was a rather unique individual for his race. He was a self-proclaimed admirer of beauty, having chosen many of the planets he had conquered based on his standards of beauty. He also was a collector of different works of art and other things that caught his interest, and that he simply had to had. This however was not the strangest thing about him. His race reproduced asexually, and had no real sex drive, or any reproductive organs. Meaning that normally they held no interest in women or sex.
He however, rather enjoyed the company of women, simply because he found them beautiful. So much so, that he had many of them travel with him. They would work as his aids, tending to his needs, or amusing him whenever it was necessary. They wore outfits different from the armors that soldiers had to wear. These being made so as to tastefully accentuate the beauty he saw in them.
In some cases, when the women were willing, they would get physical with the Frost Demon. An act that in his eyes was used as a form of amusement and entertainment, as he did not take in them the pleasure the women did. He also referred to these acts as ways to further display and bring out the hidden beauty these women had. It was these particular actions that painted him as an eccentric in the face of many members of the Empire. Especially his father and brother.
This being said, it was not a surprise that when one entered his main chambers within the ship, they would be greeted by several women going about different tasks. This was the case for Hail's two elite warriors, who served as his bodyguards, and sometimes the final line between an enemy and the Frost Demon.
The first of these individuals was a slime of the heteromorphic races. However, she had taken the form of a beautiful woman in her 20s, who possessed an average built body, raven black hair, and light brown eyes. She was wearing a version of the Empire's armor which did not possess any shoulder pads, to facilitate better arm movements. This woman's name was Bukubukuchagama, and she was a Player of YGGDRASIL that had arrived in this universe about 600 years ago.
To her left was Roni Mocchi Mochi, son of Ankoro Mocchi Mochi, whom was a Player which had arrived only 100 years previous. He looked like a handsome man in his 30s, sporting tanned skin and an athletic build that made him a very successful ladies' man. His eyes were like those of a wolf, with short silver hair, and he wore the same armor as the rest of the soldiers. Much like his mother he was a werewolf. However, unlike her he was still bound by the full moon in order for his transformation to happen.
He had been the result of Ankoro sleeping with one of Polaris' soldiers, resulting in a being with the same race as his mother, but the powers of his father, who at this stage had already surpassed both of them. Werewolves like him were coming into existence after the discovery of the planet where Ankoro was living, which was home to a sizable population of werewolves, which she now ruled over.
"What a waste." Roni said as he sighed.
"Are you going to say that every time we come here?" Bukubukuchagama asked in a teasing tone, with a mature sounding voice.
"Hey. It's hard not to do."
"Well, if you continue doing good work, why not go to a planet where you can have something like this?~" She suggested with a mischievous tone.
"But that will take a while. And during that time, I am surrounded by this." Roni sighed again as he replied.
"Greetings. Is there anything I can help you with?" One of the beautiful women asked, approaching them.
"Well…~"
Roni began to speak in a rather suggestive tone, just for his companion to speak over him.
"We wish to speak with Lord Hail." She informed, causing the assistant to blush.
"W-Well, at the time Lord Hail is…" She went to reply, just for the elite warrior to calmly silence her.
"Understood. We will wait." To this the assistant gave a small bow and promptly left.
"Now, you..." Bukubukuchagama growled, glaring at Roni.
"Now, I'm certain your mother has spoiled you. You should know better than coming on to the people here. It might get you into trouble with Hail. Do you want that?" She argued with a serious edge to her voice.
"I... F-Fine." He said as sighed in defeat.
Not long after, the door on the opposite end of the room, leading to Hail's bedchambers opened, and the Frost Demon emerged. He was accompanied by one of his assistants, who was still in the process of recomposing herself. This attendant went back to whatever her role was, while Hail went to meet his two elite warriors.
"We're glad you could come and meet us so quickly.~" Bukubukuchagama said in a more child like voice, as she took a small bow.
"Of course. I would not miss a chance to be in the presence of that gifted voice of yours." Hail remarked with a smile.
"We came to inform you that we would be arriving in a few hours. We will be doing as you instructed, and make sure the Emperor does not detect our presence." She informed in a dutiful tone, despite her childlike voice.
"Very good. I will monitor the situation from now on. You are dismissed." Hail informed in a pleased fashion.
He turned towards the center of the room where a throne rested, made specifically to accommodate his body in this form. Taking a seat upon the throne, he activated the panel on the right armrest to project and image of the planet they were approaching. On his left armrest, was placed a cup of wine, which he was to quick to take and drink from, a small smirk forming on his face. He was rather excited to see what he would be able to find on this planet. Especially before his father found out about his presence.
Inside Nazarick, Demiurge had just used a [World Class Item] to heal himself, and with that he quickly made his way to Ainz's study, and entered it in an uncharacteristically panicked fashion. This of course surprised Ainz, who was sitting at his desk, and Albedo who was standing to his right, with Wrath who was kneeling before them in front.
"Demiurge, what is the meaning of this?" Albedo quickly growled, incensed by Demiurge rudely barging into their master's study.
The Arch-Devil however ignored her, closing the door behind him, and kneeling right there and then, his head hitting the floor as he did so.
"M-My apologies, Ainz-sama! I have made a grave mistake in judging the current situation of the Holy Kingdom. Not only that, but I lowered myself to the point of having to use the [World Class Item] you so selflessly gave me." He cried out in a desperate voice.
It was obvious to all those present, that Demiurge was in a deep state of panic. His heart was beating at what was before, unknown speeds from the fear that now loomed over him.
"…"
Albedo went to speak, but Ainz lifted his right hand to silence her as he gazed at the NPC that was still prostrating before them.
"Rise, Demiurge. Approach and tell me how you think you have misjudged the situation." The Overlord instructed in his usual calm and superior manner.
"A-As you wish, Ainz-sama." Demiurge said, slowly calming down and recomposing himself.
"I had not foreseen or considered that another Supreme Being would have appeared. It was never my intention to incur the wrath of one of the 41 Supreme Beings. Had I known, I would have never put this plan in motion."
Ainz scratched his chin, the red dots in his eye sockets examining the demon, and once again Demiurge felt that fear course through his body. He did not know what was going to become of him. Whatever punishment his master would decide upon, he would accept it. However, deep down he was cowering in the fear. Not of the possible horrible things that could befall him, but for completely and utterly failing the Supreme Beings. A fate worse than death and/or torture, and a feeling that now he truly understood how Shalltear felt when she recovered from her brainwashing.
"I see. That is not a mistake Demiurge. If it were, we both would be responsible for it." Ainz calmly informed.
This statement was a shocking one for the NPCs, whose mouths were agape.
"Ainz-sama…" Albedo went to speak, but Ainz silenced her again with a raised hand.
"I had no knowledge of this. For all we knew, for all I knew, we were the only ones to have come here. Touch-san's presence was… unforeseen."
This was enough to calm down the demon to a more stable state, knowing that this was also something that was not known or even expected by the great mind of Ainz. This then gave him a certain sense of clarity in that moment as he mentally went over the information he had obtained.
The same could not be said for Albedo. Even for a being with her impeccable and jaw-dropping exterior, she was even more concerned for knowing that her love had not expected or planned this. It was one thing for her to know that Touch-Me was part of a plan. That meant that everything was being done in Nazarick's, and by extension, Ainz's benefit. However, knowing that his presence was not planned, this could mean several things.
He had killed Wrath's summon form. Obviously because he had done something to displease Touch-Me. Now she wondered what else could he do? What else could he kill? Did he plan to take Ainz away from Nazarick, and away from her!? No! That would not do. She did not understand what this "Empire of Polaris" that Wrath had talked about was, but she could care less about it. Right now was only focused on Touch-Me, and the possible threat he presented to her relationship with Ainz, and his standing. After all, only her love deserved Nazarick. The rest were simply afterthoughts.
"Wrath told us about his meeting with Touch-san. He told him everything he knew about the plans for the Kingdom, along with the existence of E-Rantel and Nazarick's location. He also told me how Touch-Me killed his summoned form, along with the green humanoid called 'Guls' that attacked him, the woman named Tanya who accompanied Touch-san, and the name of this 'Polaris Empire'." Ainz informed in a regal manner.
"I am aware, Ainz-sama. I was attacked by that woman, while I was spying on the enslaved demi-humans' progress at the breach of the wall."
"Was it her that forced you into using [Hygieia's Chalice]?" His superior asked with a certain curious tone.
"Y-Yes."
"She must have been very powerful to put you in such a state." Ainz mused in a distant tone as he thought on the matter.
"Or you simply lowered your guard too much and brought this shame upon us all." Albedo argued, with distain clear in her voice.
"Albedo, I would never do such thing. She was somehow able to detect me through my [Invisibility]. I am unsure if it was with her own abilities, or the item she equipped on her face, but she was very well aware of my presence. She had already displayed unknown powers, similar to those of the being that attacked Wrath. As the one responsible for this operation, I was not willing to risk fighting them without knowing what I was dealing with. Especially when she seemed to be the one closest to Touch-Me-sama, and argued to be stronger than him." Demiurge explained in a calm tone.
"Foolishness. It is impossible for her to be at the same level as a Supreme Being." Albedo informed matter-of-factly.
Ainz however, was more broadminded than Albedo. As he listened intently at their exchange, he knew that was not quite right. For example, Rubedo was stronger than all members of the guild, but he was imagining that Albedo did not count her sister in her statement, since Rubedo was of Nazarick. Ainz knew that even within YGGDRASIL, there were NPCs stronger than his friend, and even though he was among the top 4 Players of the game, he was not graced with the number-1 spot.
"How did the fight against her go?" He asked, curious to know more about these seemingly unknown powers.
At this Demiurge lowered his head in response. He understood perfectly why his master would think that there was a fight. After all, he had been put in a situation where he had no other choice but to use a healing item. He must have been in a really intense battle. It was only natural to think that. Demiurge really did wish that was the case, as he then spoke in a low and defeated tone.
"My apologies, b-but there was no fight. She fired an unknown type of energy attack against me, that I was unable to either avoid or resist. After which, I used [Greater Teleportation] to escape."
This definitely piqued Ainz's attention. Two beings with seemingly unknown powers, where one of them was able to so easily take out Demiurge, all the while stating that she was stronger than Touch-Me. That in itself would be worrisome, especially since another guildmate and friend, Punitto Moe, estimated that if fully equipped, Touch-Me could solo all the Guardians of Nazarick if he had to.
He would call the situation fascinating, but he wasn't sure if this was a good or bad thing. He was failing to understand why Touch-Me had turned hostile against Wrath. Had the demon done something to anger his friend? Or had Touch-Me decided to work on his own with a new group of people? This thought truly was troubling to him, and a bit revolting.
"What race was this Tanya?"
"I am unsure, but I believe she might be some new kind of elf."
"I see... Could you describe her to me?"
"She had teal-colored skin, orange hair, and pointed ears, while the rest of her body was similar to that of a human or elf."
Ainz searched his mind of every kind of elf he knew, and in the end he too was left wondering what she was. He did not remember any kind of elf that would look exactly like this, especially the mix of skin and hair color. Hers and Guls' powers were also an enigma. They could be a kind of [Talent], but it seemed strange for two completely different beings with no real connection to share the same ability. It could be a form of magic, but none of the NPCs had heard a chant, and Wrath did remark on Guls ability as a hand-to-hand fighter. This would make him think of them being [Monk], but he was not aware of any natural ability for them to be able to produce such attacks.
"I apologize, for being unable to provide you with anything of real use, Ainz-sama." Demiurge said apologetically with a bow.
"While at the moment we do not have much to work with, I wouldn't say that you two did not bring us useful information. The fact Touch-san is in this world, is already relevant enough."
"Even if that is the case, I simply do not understand why Touch-Me-sama and these people following him would have attacked his faithful servants." Albedo pointed out in barely restrained consternation.
"If I may, Ainz-sama. I believe I have a theory." Demiurge informed.
"Umu. You may speak."
"It could be possible that this 'Polaris Empire', is the name of a new force that Touch-Me-sama is leading, and that they, much like ourselves, wish to expand and make an impact upon this world. We simply happened to come across them as they moved in to put their own plan into motion."
"Hmm... Not a bad theory. But I still fail to understand the meaning of the word 'Polaris'. He had never mentioned anything like that before, or why he would attack a possible ally in Wrath." Ainz informed the demon.
"In that case, Ainz-sama. What if, Touch-Me-sama is acting against us?" Albedo suggested in a cold voice.
"Albedo! How dare you consider something like that?!" Demiurge growled, as the mere thought was tantamount to blasphemy.
"It has happened before. Indeed, it was not with a Supreme Being, but we have seen Shalltear be affected by an outside force and turn against Nazarick. Couldn't something similar have happened now?"
Indeed, the situation with Shalltear had been, and in some ways still was, a massive issue. However, Ainz simply failed to believe, or wanted to believe, that something like that would befall his friend. Especially when it could imply that he would, like Shalltear, have to kill Touch-Me. Ainz shook his head of such thoughts as the Guardian Overseer and Nazarick Defense Commander continued to argue.
"Do not be foolish. You can't possibly put a Supreme Being at the same level as Shalltear." Demiurge argued with vemon clear in his tone.
"I know how this sounds, but what other excuse do you have for him taking actions against an ally?" Albedo calmly spat back.
"Enough!" Ainz shouted in a commanding tone.
"M-My apologies." Both quickly said, lowering their heads.
"I have heard both of your opinions, and I will not say that I agree with one in particular. However, I do believe that we should first understand the situation that is taking place before us. That said, I will now try to use [Message] to contact Touch-san." The Overlord firmly declared.
If there were any protests to this, Ainz honestly did not hear it, as his mind was already set on what he was about to do, as be began to cast the [Message] spell...
Sir Touch-Me was on the bridge, looking at Polaris' forces through the screens as they finished up with the invading forces. He did this with a cold and commanding look. It wasn't like watching this did not affect him, but it was that in this moment with Polaris still speaking with Queen Calca, he was the highest authority figure on the bridge, and he had to act like it.
"Huuugh... This is boring." Came a voice huffing behind him.
He did not have to turn around to understand who it was. It was the strongest member of his unit. A Namekian named Slug who, much like Guls, was a child of the Namekian who had come to this universe with Polaris. Slug wore an armor very similar to that of his, but lacked shoulder pads, as he said that those restricted his arms' range of motion.
"If you came here for entertainment, you won't find it." Touch-Me stoically informed.
"Can't say I'm surprised. Still, watching this beats sitting around doing nothing." The Namekian argued, still speaking with a bored tone.
"…"
Touch-Me went to speak, when he suddenly froze, feeling someone was trying to contact him via [Message]. Taking into account everything that had happened thus far, he had a gut feeling of who it was as his left hand went to his temple.
[Touch-san?] Came the voice from the other side.
[Momonga?]
[Y-Yes] The undead replied, heavy hints of emotion in his voice.
Ainz felt his emotions quickly being suppressed, but the immediate effect was not strong enough, allowing him to feel the joy of making contact with someone who he thought he would never see again. Someone who was his savior, and who he had looked up too by a ridiculous degree.
He was truly at a loss for words, not really sure if he should go ahead and ask him about what had happened with Wrath, where he had been, and who were the people that were accompanying him. Before he could speak however, his comrade would reply...
[I would like to meet up. After what happened with Wrath and the Kingdom, I think we should speak face to face.]
[I-I agree. I too would like to talk about what happened. Not to mention everything that has happened since we got here…] Ainz said, his emotions continuing to get suppressed as they welled up beyond certain threshold.
[I can imagine what you've went through. But don't worry, I am here now. You will have someone to help you.] Touch-Me informed with a neutral tone of voice.
[When do you want to meet up?] Ainz asked in an almost eager tone.
[Hmm... In a few hours would be good. The sooner the better.]
[Agreed. I-If you tell me where you are, I can open a [Gate] to Nazarick…] Ainz began, when his friend spoke over him.
[No. I will not be alone. And I think it would be better to have the meeting take place somewhere else because of it. Perhaps E-Rantel?]
[I can do that.] Ainz replied, not too happy with the idea of letting strangers into Nazarick, and more than willing to accept his friend's proposal.
[If you can be at the gates, I will send someone to get you, and whoever is with you.] The Overlord then added.
[That works.]
[Good. Then, I'll see you in a few hours.] Ainz said, ending the [Message].
Touch-Me stopped for a moment before he looked back at Slug, who seemed more annoyed with his superior having spaced out than anything else.
"Well?"
"I have to go speak with Lord Polaris. Take care of things where while I'm gone." Touch-Me replied while rushing out of the room.
"Huh!? W-Why me?" Slug growled, not really liking being in the position of a commander, but Touch-Me was already gone.
"I spoke with him." Ainz calmly said as he ended the [Message] spell.
"W-What did Touch-Me-sama say?" Albedo hesitantly asked.
"We will meet in E-Rantel." Ainz declared, his tone telling those present that this was not to be questioned.
"As you wish, Ainz-sama." They said in unison.
"Albedo, call for Sebas to come meet us."
Vanity Loo, was enjoying a rest period between assignments. Currently, she was wearing simple and somewhat old looking clothing, which covered her average looking body. Her eyes were crystal blue, with medium length fiery hair and some freckles. From the kitchen she could see into her small backyard where the man she had saved and now had a strange relationship with, was standing still, looking up at the sky.
Bardock, was using his energy sensing abilities to understand what was going on. After having come to this unknown world, he had noticed two things. First, he had lost his "gift", so he was no longer plagued by visions of the future. Second, his body was in bad shape. So much so that for most of the time he was recovering, he was effectively trapped inside his body, unable to move or interact with the outside world.
Being in this caged state gave him a lot of time to think. To wonder where he was, who seemed to be looking over him, what they wanted, and so on. He also found himself desperate for a way to feel the world around him. That was when he thought back to his time conquering planets for Frieza. More specifically, to the times he faced fighters who had abilities similar to those of scouters. At the time he did not think much of it, since they had scouters, but in his state he began to think about it, and try to develop this ability, if he could do so.
With time, be began to be able to sense whenever his caregiver was in the room, and where she was within this room. Not having anything else to do as his body healed, he continued to work on this new ability, managing to be able to sense everything in the building he was in by the time he was fully recovered and restored to full consciousness.
He soon learned that the woman who he had startled by suddenly getting back up was named Vanity Loo. Well, startle might not be the best word, as her yelp was followed by her drawing a sword on him. Even if it was useless against him, he found it funny in his own Saiyan way.
At first, he wanted to leave as soon as he was back on his feet, fearing a possible connection of this world to Frieza, and wanting to learn about his new situation by himself. However, she was not having any of it. Bardock soon found himself being called out as an "ungrateful idiot", for wanting to leave without paying back the person who had saved him. All the while visibly not having any idea where he was and what to do. He agreed, to some extent, deciding to accommodate her wishes as everything she had said was true, and she could be useful in him understanding his current situation.
As time went on he learned where he was, and that in fact this world had no relation to Frieza, and from what she told him of this worlds fighters, they were nothing worthy of his attention. On his part, Bardock told Vanity about who he was and where he came from, which did not seem to bother her too much. Probably because she had seen him at what was arguably his lowest.
From there their relationship grew. They would live together in the same house, with Bardock ultimately taking up a job to help support the burden he had placed on her. From time to time they would share the same bed, but so far it hadn't taken a romantic turn, and to be honest Bardock was not looking for such a thing. Even if he found her personality rather attractive, even by Saiyan standards.
At the moment, Bardock was in a greatly unnerved state. He was feeling a massive presence in the distance. He was unable to tell how truly massive it was. Along with this fact, it seemed to meld with those around it, meaning outside of being certain that it was much stronger than him, he did not know by how much. He couldn't help but start thinking of Frieza, wondering if this is what he would feel like if Bardock had been able to sense energy when he had met him.
"Well, are you going to do move?" Vanity asked, emerging from the house.
She got no response, which only served to annoy her further. Seeing that he wasn't listening, she walked up to him and placed a hand on his shoulder. This was greeted with a violent reaction on his part, as the Saiyan turned around, and grabbing on to her wrist with considerable strength. Vanity hissed under the pressure, doing her best to maintain her composure before him, since she had learned from their time together that he seemed to hold her regular composure in some high regard. Whatever was happening now, she did not want to risk showing weakness in front of him.
"Well? If you wanted some intimate contact you could have just asked." She remarked with a smirk, as he finally regained his senses and let her go.
"Do not be foolish." He growled in reply, getting some distance from her.
"Are you going to tell me what is bothering you?" Vanity asked firmly, while massaging her wrist.
"I'm sensing something in the distance."
"How bad is it?" She asked in concern, noticing the worry in his tone.
"Bad. Whatever it is, it's much stronger than me."
The statement visibly stunned Vanity. She was somewhat aware of the power he wielded. Enough to know he could probably make anyone, and anything kneel before him if he wished. To imagine someone stronger than him was simply too much for her. Especially when she did not even have a real grasp on the true levels of his power.
"I will…" He began to speak, when she interrupted him.
"No, you are not. Didn't you end up here because you went up against someone you couldn't defeat?" She coldly argued.
"Yes. Just... do you expect me to stay here and do nothing about it?"
"Yes. Rushing to a possible death, won't do any of us any good." Vanity bluntly argued.
Bardock was aware of this, he had felt enough pain and loss to last him an eternity, and it was enough to make him understand that sometimes things needed to be thought out and taken slow.
"I am aware. And don't worry. I don't plan on going to investigate on my own."
"What will you do then?" She asked with a raised eyebrow.
"I will wait. I believe that I detected other smaller signals moving away from that larger presence. I believe that eventually, some of those will come here. Then we will know what we're up against."
"V-Very good. Now, why don't we go do something to get your mind off of this thing that's bothering you?" She suggested with a smirk.
"What do you have in mind?"
"I want to do some exercises with my sword. You know, especially after you almost broke my wrist." Vanity replied, beginning to put some distance between them.
"I did not want to do that, but you do know that you can't get back at me like that right?"
"I know that. I can't even make a scratch on you, but swinging away at you is going to make me feel much better." Vanity informed with a sly smile.
"..."
