Prologue
Before you read... Be sure to familiarize yourself with the basic information about GT Rewritten! |
* * *
* * *
Age 724. The planet, still referred to by many as Tuffle, slowly falls into dusk. Beneath its perpetually grim, crimson sky, the final battle of a certain war unfolds. Standing on the trodden earth lies a solitary proud palace, seemingly reaching the clouds. Despite its massiveness and solemnity, it carries within it much beauty and finesse. It is a symbol of a crumbling civilization, its last bastion. Around the palace gather people with a crude appearance, clad in woven or leather clothes dyed in various, mainly warm and intense colors. Despite lacking weapons, they instill fear in the guards still stationed on the walls, as if they were weapons themselves. These are, of course, the Saiyans who have come to claim their victory over the Tuffles inhabiting this land. Most of them are hoping this is the final siege, as despite their overwhelming dominance, many of them have perished in this war.
Most of the warriors preparing for the attack are adult men, but small or teenage Saiyans can also be spotted, gazing uncertainly from a distance at the soulless walls. Some of them, about a dozen or so, stand in formation, awaiting the commands of their ambitious seventeen-year-old guardian.
Most of the warriors preparing for the attack are adult men, but small or teenage Saiyans can also be spotted, gazing uncertainly from a distance at the soulless walls. Some of them, about a dozen or so, stand in formation, awaiting the commands of their ambitious seventeen-year-old guardian.
GUARDIAN
sternly
Ha! It's good that you've come! It means you're not cowards! On behalf of our leader, King Vegeta the Second, I inform you of the following things…
pulls out a written sheet
sternly
Ha! It's good that you've come! It means you're not cowards! On behalf of our leader, King Vegeta the Second, I inform you of the following things…
pulls out a written sheet
The Saiyan adolescents look around nervously, some of them driving their eyes into the ground, pretending to be indifferent and fearless.
GUARDIAN
reads solemnly
You are the eighth youth scout group formed during the land war between our people and the Tuffles! Your task is to in… in…
confused, syllablizes
…in… fil… tra… te!…
once again solemnly
…the areas occupied by the enemy!
slightly quieter
"To in… filtrate" means… spying… if you didn't know it yet…
The children seem not to be listening to the guardian, but he is not discouraged by this.
GUARDIAN
clears throat, then continues with seriousness
The king also extends his gratitude for the sacrifice of your fathers, who fell under his command, and he is delighted by the fact that at such a young age, you have chosen to take their place in service to the greatness of our people…
drops his seriousness
Ahem… As for me, I can only ask you not to be a bunch of crybabies and simply do your best at what the king asks you to do. You're right next to our soldiers, and besides, I'm watching over you, so you’re in no danger, as true Saiyans always serve the common good in combat…
smiles
And lastly, I should introduce myself… My name is Nappa! And for you — team leader Nappa!
Some of the children glance up at Nappa as he introduces himself, but after a moment, they lose interest and resume looking around.
NAPPA
sighs
sighs
Alright then… Now, I'll count you all and see which houses you're from…
Suddenly, right next to Nappa, land two strikingly similar Saiyan youths. One of them is older, taller than the other, and has a lighter shade of skin. He is the one to approach the team leader and extend his hand to him. The other keeps his gaze downward — pretending not to be present.
NEWCOMER
calmly
Greetings, team leader. My name’s Bardock. I've brought…
with a sigh, turns to his brother
…support for your scouts.
NAPPA
flustered
Umm… Bardock, is it? Greetings to you too… What's your companion's name and how old is he?
BARDOCK
resigned
He's my brother…
louder, to his brother
Hey! Introduce yourself!
BARDOCK'S BROTHER
without turning to Nappa and Bardock
Turles…
NAPPA
frowns, offended
And your age?
TURLES
remains silent
BARDOCK
irritated
He's thirteen.
hopefully
Does he meet the requirements?
NAPPA
dismissively
Yes, yes… Of course… He hasn't reached adulthood, after all. Besides, you know how we Saiyans approach all rules… Even those we've made ourselves…
BARDOCK
sadder than before
Please forgive my brother's bluntness. He's probably still thinking about our late father. He died a few weeks ago in a battle with the Tuffles.
NAPPA
raising an eyebrow
You know what… Bardock? I just had this thought… You look like you're already an adult. Why don't you join the soldiers instead of sending your younger brother to the scouts?
BARDOCK
smirks to himself but speaks seriously
Of course, I'll join the soldiers. I'm already eighteen. I just thought that… our father would like Turles to also contribute to our combined success.
NAPPA
warily
Hmph. Suit yourself…
BARDOCK
sternly, to Turles
Don't bring shame upon me! You'd better do your best!
nods to Nappa and flies off
NAPPA
after a moment of silence, scratching his head, addresses Turles
Kid… Are you going to line up?
TURLES
turns to Nappa
Maybe.
NAPPA
If you don't want to, you don't have to… Your brother is fulfilling the duty left by your father, so your presence here is completely unnecessary.
TURLES
approaches Nappa and smirks cheekily
You know, mister team leader… as I think about it now… I think I'll stay! I'd rather not find out what Bardock would do if he found out I didn't do as he told me.
NAPPA
surprised, mutters under his breath
Well, well… So small, yet so talkative!
TURLES
lines up
NAPPA
takes a breath, then exhales loudly
Alright then, my chums, let's move! The enemy camp won't in-… infiltrate itself!
sternly, to Turles
Don't bring shame upon me! You'd better do your best!
nods to Nappa and flies off
NAPPA
after a moment of silence, scratching his head, addresses Turles
Kid… Are you going to line up?
TURLES
turns to Nappa
Maybe.
NAPPA
If you don't want to, you don't have to… Your brother is fulfilling the duty left by your father, so your presence here is completely unnecessary.
TURLES
approaches Nappa and smirks cheekily
You know, mister team leader… as I think about it now… I think I'll stay! I'd rather not find out what Bardock would do if he found out I didn't do as he told me.
NAPPA
surprised, mutters under his breath
Well, well… So small, yet so talkative!
TURLES
lines up
NAPPA
takes a breath, then exhales loudly
Alright then, my chums, let's move! The enemy camp won't in-… infiltrate itself!
The children discreetly pass under the wall surrounding the palace. Some of them take to the air and cautiously peer over it. Nappa hangs back, observing his team's behavior.
BOY #1
loudly
I see some metalheads! They've got weapons instead of han-…
BOY #2
Quiet up there! They might hear us and attack!
BOY #1
lowers his flight altitude and responds quietly
Yeah, sorry about that!
GIRL #1
softly and uncertainly
So… are we going over this wall or staying here?
BOY #1
under his breath
I'd stay…
BOY #2
irritated
Oh, come on! You're being foolish! Eventually, we'll have to get through anyway! That's our task.
GIRL #2
calmly
He's right.
REST OF THE CHILDREN
simultaneously, but in an uncoordinated manner
Yes! - Alright! - No time to waste! - Let's go!
BOY #1
sighs
BOY #2
jostles Boy #1
Pull yourself together! That's not how a Saiyan behaves! If the team leader saw you now…!
BOY #3
sternly
Are we going through or not?
BOY #2
We're going, we're going…
NAPPA
still standing at a certain distance from the team; speaks quietly to himself
Someone's missing here… Blast! I was supposed to count them! And now I don't even know if any of them ran off… Anyway… it'll all be reported as fine… like always.
The children cautiously fly over the wall and land on the other side. To their surprise, they spot Turles leaning against the wall.
BOY #2
whispers, incredulous
Hey, weren't you just flying a moment ago? How did you get here so quickly?
TURLES
through gritted teeth
Don't move…
BOY #4
scratching his head
But why though?
TURLES
smirks widely
GIRL #2
whispers, annoyed
Stop fooling around! This is not the time for it!
TURLES
quietly
Let's just say I know what these machines can do…
BOY #2
Oh yeah? And how do you know?
TURLES
looks away, but maintains the unsettling smile
My father's unit… encountered such scraps by chance… And it was their last meeting by chance…
GIRL #3
with concern
Did you see your father die?
TURLES
loses the smile
I didn't. But my older brother… he did.
BOY #2
authoritatively
Alright… Let's assume you're worth trusting. So what do we do now?
TURLES
with stoic calmness
Very, very slowly, we'll walk along this wall and make our way to the entrance of the guard post…
BOY #4
in disbelief
Are you out of your mind? We weren't supposed to fight!
TURLES
coldly
I can leave you here if you want. I can manage on my own.
BOY #1
frowning
Alone? With real soldiers?!
TURLES
proudly
I'm much stronger than any of them! The Tuffles are a weak race, after all.
BOY #2
sternly
I knew from the start that you were playing games with us! And who else killed members of our families?
addresses the rest of the team
He's crazy. We won't listen to him.
boldly strides forward and waves his hands in front of the Tuffle battle robot
See! They're deactivated! Follow me!
whispers, incredulous
Hey, weren't you just flying a moment ago? How did you get here so quickly?
TURLES
through gritted teeth
Don't move…
BOY #4
scratching his head
But why though?
TURLES
smirks widely
GIRL #2
whispers, annoyed
Stop fooling around! This is not the time for it!
TURLES
quietly
Let's just say I know what these machines can do…
BOY #2
Oh yeah? And how do you know?
TURLES
looks away, but maintains the unsettling smile
My father's unit… encountered such scraps by chance… And it was their last meeting by chance…
GIRL #3
with concern
Did you see your father die?
TURLES
loses the smile
I didn't. But my older brother… he did.
BOY #2
authoritatively
Alright… Let's assume you're worth trusting. So what do we do now?
TURLES
with stoic calmness
Very, very slowly, we'll walk along this wall and make our way to the entrance of the guard post…
BOY #4
in disbelief
Are you out of your mind? We weren't supposed to fight!
TURLES
coldly
I can leave you here if you want. I can manage on my own.
BOY #1
frowning
Alone? With real soldiers?!
TURLES
proudly
I'm much stronger than any of them! The Tuffles are a weak race, after all.
BOY #2
sternly
I knew from the start that you were playing games with us! And who else killed members of our families?
addresses the rest of the team
He's crazy. We won't listen to him.
boldly strides forward and waves his hands in front of the Tuffle battle robot
See! They're deactivated! Follow me!
The boy marches forward fearlessly, and the rest of the children timidly follow suit. Only Turles remains pressed against the wall.
TURLES
thinks
And this is precisely what I dislike most about Saiyans. There's always one who can talk others into anything, and the majority immediately stops thinking, blindly following him… Ugh…
swiftly flies back to the other side of the wall
thinks
And this is precisely what I dislike most about Saiyans. There's always one who can talk others into anything, and the majority immediately stops thinking, blindly following him… Ugh…
swiftly flies back to the other side of the wall
The children approach the robots with brisk, careless steps. They pass them with a certain apprehension, but once they're past them and the robots still haven't moved, they calm down and proceed, now somewhat more discreetly.
BOY #4
quietly
And where do we go now?
BOY #2
confidently
See that shack over there?
points ahead
There's definitely something important in there! Let's go in and maybe pick something up!
GIRL #1
with concern
Are you sure there's anything there at all?
BOY #2
And why do you think they covered it with those robots? It can mean only one thing — there must be something they're hiding there.
GIRL #3
timidly
Sounds… wise…
BOY #1
I think I agree with that too.
BOY #2
points to the shack again
Then onward!
The team approaches the shack. As they draw closer, they hear voices coming from the inside.
VOICE #1
grimly
Again, they're waiting for the nightfall… They'll turn into those giant apes and crush our resistance effortlessly.
VOICE #2
angrily
That's why I've been saying from the start that we should be the ones to attack them, not let them fight on their own terms!
VOICE #3
calmly
You’re a fool. If we strike first, we'll reveal our strategy. Our only hope is that they'll show us their cards first.
VOICE #1
in a hushed voice
All this waiting is unbearable… I feel like the executioner's axe is hanging over my neck, and yet I don't try to move away…
VOICE #3
sighs
Perhaps it's meant to be this way?
VOICE #2
still angrily
If so, can we even talk about justice?! These barbarians owe us so much, even the materials and dyes that were used to make their clothes, and now they're slaughtering us because we don't want to give them our land for free?!
VOICE #3
Such questions are pointless. You'd better go see Doctor R. and have a word with him while it's still calm. His presence has always worked well for you.
VOICE #2
Maybe you're right… I'll be back soon.
hurriedly exits the shack
A Tuffle emerges from the shack, a man with almost unnaturally orange hair and distinctly average height — not tall, but not short either. He is dressed in a white lab coat.
BOY #3
suddenly stops
Watch out! They might notice us…!
GIRL #2
bows her head
I think only one of us should peek in there…
BOY #2
smirks
That's a good idea. And that someone will be me!
BOY #1
outraged
Why you?! We were supposed to act as a team, and now you want to make all the decisions for us! If only you were the team leader…
GIRL #1
with ire
When did we ever appoint you as the chief?
BOY #2
surprised, but also angry
You've been listening to me up until now! What's gotten into you?
VOICE #3
from inside the shack, intrigued
Just who could be behind the wall? Many voices, almost like children's…
VOICE #1
with a quiet sigh
Maybe we should take a look and check, shouldn't we?
VOICE #3
chuckles quietly
You're right…
When the children hear the Tuffles’ words, they panic.
BOY #3
trying to stay calm
Now we all need to flee…!
GIRL #3
I'm ready to leave this place right away if needed!
BOY #1
to Boy #2
It's your fault! We got detected because of you!
BOY #2
indignant
Because of me?! I wasn't the one who started arguing!
trying to stay calm
Now we all need to flee…!
GIRL #3
I'm ready to leave this place right away if needed!
BOY #1
to Boy #2
It's your fault! We got detected because of you!
BOY #2
indignant
Because of me?! I wasn't the one who started arguing!
Two Tuffles, similarly dressed in lab coats, step out of the shack. These VOICES are the SCIENTISTS.
SCIENTIST #3
in disbelief
Well, what do you know, they've sent kids yet again!
SCIENTIST #1
quietly, almost to himself
They never seem to display any sense of shame.
BOY #2
extends an open hand towards the scientists
Don't move, or I'll blow you up!
SCIENTIST #3
laughs
Not so fast, my friend! Nobody's blowing anyone up here… at least not yet.
takes out a remote from his pocket and presses its red button
The robots, previously bypassed by the children, activate and move towards the young Saiyans, who, instead of defending themselves, are freaking out.
BOY #4
with terror
We should've listened to this new guy…
BOY #2
with anger, releases a Ki blast towards one of the robots
with terror
We should've listened to this new guy…
BOY #2
with anger, releases a Ki blast towards one of the robots
The blast explodes, causing no damage to the machine.
BOY #2
panicked
Impossible! It's a machine! It's just… a machine!
SCIENTIST #3
laughs
I wonder if the Saiyans will even care about the fate of their children! Maybe they'll at least send them spare underwear…
CHILDREN
chaotically
Help! - We need help! - Team leader!
panicked
Impossible! It's a machine! It's just… a machine!
SCIENTIST #3
laughs
I wonder if the Saiyans will even care about the fate of their children! Maybe they'll at least send them spare underwear…
CHILDREN
chaotically
Help! - We need help! - Team leader!
On the other side of the crowd of robots land Turles and Nappa.
NAPPA
irritated
I think we arrived just in time.
TURLES
under his breath
Those idiots…
tries to move towards the robots
NAPPA
blocks Turles's path with his arm
Don't get any closer to them! I'll handle this quickly!
takes a step forward
This is the full extent of a mid-class warrior's capabilities! Kids, move aside!
irritated
I think we arrived just in time.
TURLES
under his breath
Those idiots…
tries to move towards the robots
NAPPA
blocks Turles's path with his arm
Don't get any closer to them! I'll handle this quickly!
takes a step forward
This is the full extent of a mid-class warrior's capabilities! Kids, move aside!
Nappa stands with his legs apart and releases his Ki. His aura somewhat resembles an electrical discharge. Next, he extends his right hand forward, with his fingers clenched into a fist. He then straightens his index and middle fingers, keeping them together.
NAPPA
violently raises the mentioned fingers vertically
HAH!
violently raises the mentioned fingers vertically
HAH!
Nothing happens.
NAPPA
thinks whiile squinting and remaining motionless
Darn it! Should have fine-tuned it more… or listened to father's advice and joined the recruits! Why did I even volunteer to look after these brats…
The robots are reaching for some of the children. It turns out that most of the young Saiyans are too weak to defend themselves. Only the teenage members of the team are holding off as well as they can.
TURLES
to Nappa
So, do you still have any plan or is that the end?
NAPPA
still motionless; thinks
Just stay like this, Nappa, stand still… You'll see, something will happen in a moment, and everyone will think it's because of you…
TURLES
looking up
Hey, I see something up there…! It's like… someone's flying…!
NAPPA
still motionless, a forced smile appears on his face
to Nappa
So, do you still have any plan or is that the end?
NAPPA
still motionless; thinks
Just stay like this, Nappa, stand still… You'll see, something will happen in a moment, and everyone will think it's because of you…
TURLES
looking up
Hey, I see something up there…! It's like… someone's flying…!
NAPPA
still motionless, a forced smile appears on his face
Suddenly, someone lands, or rather crashes into the group of robots, causing them to explode immediately. The scientists, thrown back by the blast, fall to the ground. The children fall as well but remain unharmed.
TURLES
tips his head; utters with disbelief
Mister team leader… Did you do this?
NAPPA
finally opens his eyes and changes position; he notices the burning remnants of the battle robots
I-It…
tips his head; utters with disbelief
Mister team leader… Did you do this?
NAPPA
finally opens his eyes and changes position; he notices the burning remnants of the battle robots
I-It…
Nappa suddenly turns around and spots a tall man standing nearby, a Saiyan, clad in ornate armor with a dark green cloak. He has a distinctive, pointed hairstyle. It was him who swiftly destroyed the robots, yet both his body and attire remain completely unscathed.
NAPPA
very quietly, to himself
Impossible…
TURLES
intrigued
Who is that?
NAPPA
What? You've never seen him before? He's Prince Vegeta, the mightiest of the Saiyans!
TURLES
casually
Oh, him! He's taller than I thought…
VEGETA III
turns to Nappa and addresses him seriously
What's going on here?
NAPPA
kneels on his left knee and bows deeply, then responds, visibly flustered
They're a young scout group, I'm their guardian…
VEGETA III
intrigued
A scout group… I see. It's most appropriate that you're here with them. Given their lack of prior training…
very quietly, to himself
Impossible…
TURLES
intrigued
Who is that?
NAPPA
What? You've never seen him before? He's Prince Vegeta, the mightiest of the Saiyans!
TURLES
casually
Oh, him! He's taller than I thought…
VEGETA III
turns to Nappa and addresses him seriously
What's going on here?
NAPPA
kneels on his left knee and bows deeply, then responds, visibly flustered
They're a young scout group, I'm their guardian…
VEGETA III
intrigued
A scout group… I see. It's most appropriate that you're here with them. Given their lack of prior training…
NAPPA
blushes
Y-Yes…
thinks
Thank goodness this kid brought me here… Otherwise, I'd be in trouble right now…
VEGETA III
puts his hand on Nappa's shoulder
You're reliable… Our people need those like you. What's your name?
NAPPA
lifts his head, sporting a wide smile
I'm N-Nappa!
VEGETA III
very calmly, almost stoically
I'll remember that… and perhaps make use of it.
SCIENTIST #1
struggling to get up
Ugh…
VEGETA III
without even turning towards the scientists, let alone blinking, he sends a Ki blast their way.
SCIENTISTS
in pain
UAAAAAAAGH!
blushes
Y-Yes…
thinks
Thank goodness this kid brought me here… Otherwise, I'd be in trouble right now…
VEGETA III
puts his hand on Nappa's shoulder
You're reliable… Our people need those like you. What's your name?
NAPPA
lifts his head, sporting a wide smile
I'm N-Nappa!
VEGETA III
very calmly, almost stoically
I'll remember that… and perhaps make use of it.
SCIENTIST #1
struggling to get up
Ugh…
VEGETA III
without even turning towards the scientists, let alone blinking, he sends a Ki blast their way.
SCIENTISTS
in pain
UAAAAAAAGH!
Both Tuffles are disintegrated.
VEGETA III
turns back around
TURLES
sincerely, surprised
Are you leaving already?
NAPPA
hisses at Turles
Show some respect! And kneel immediately!
turns back around
TURLES
sincerely, surprised
Are you leaving already?
NAPPA
hisses at Turles
Show some respect! And kneel immediately!
VEGETA III
smiles discreetly and silently flies away
NAPPA
stands up and addresses his team
We're leaving this enemy turf! You lot are a bunch of utter fools! You almost got me into trouble!
TURLES
looks with curiosity after the departing Prince Vegeta
NAPPA
thinks
Strange kid… Acts like rules don't apply to him… He's not like the rest of us.
smiles discreetly and silently flies away
NAPPA
stands up and addresses his team
We're leaving this enemy turf! You lot are a bunch of utter fools! You almost got me into trouble!
TURLES
looks with curiosity after the departing Prince Vegeta
NAPPA
thinks
Strange kid… Acts like rules don't apply to him… He's not like the rest of us.
* * *
Let's follow the Saiyan heir to the throne. He flies above the palace, and when he's beyond its grounds, he lands abruptly among some serious-looking men, right next to an elderly figure who bears a striking resemblance to him, only shorter and leaning on a staff. It's none other than Vegeta II - the Saiyan king himself. Surrounding him are the most distinguished among his warriors.
VEGETA II
calmly
You've kept us waiting for quite a while, my son.
calmly
You've kept us waiting for quite a while, my son.
The warriors bow before the prince.
VEGETA III
to Vegeta II
Forgive me. There was an issue that detained me…
VEGETA II
I suspect it was more than just one issue.
VEGETA III
emphatically
Forgive me.
looking around at the warriors
Have you devised a strategy for today's battle?
to Vegeta II
Forgive me. There was an issue that detained me…
VEGETA II
I suspect it was more than just one issue.
VEGETA III
emphatically
Forgive me.
looking around at the warriors
Have you devised a strategy for today's battle?
VEGETA II
nodding
Yes. We are only awaiting intel from the scout groups.
looking at one of the warriors
Marshal…
MARSHAL
bows and steps forward
Truth be told, my prince, we've received no response only from the team led by my son.
VEGETA III
holds back his laughter with difficulty
Coincidentally, I happened to be in the area they were supposed to check… Nothing out of the ordinary. A squad of combat robots; I've already taken care of them.
MARSHAL
bows his head again
It's excellent news. In that case, we can start as soon as the moon appears…
VEGETA III
impatiently, speaks to Vegeta II
So what's the plan after all?
VEGETA II
with stoic calm and nonchalance
Oh, you don't need to know that…
VEGETA III
surprised
But I'm supposed to lead the army…!
VEGETA II
I admit, that was the intention, but there has been a change of plans… You see, I want to end this war. And with as little bloodshed as possible…
VEGETA III
taken aback
What do you mean?
VEGETA II
calmly
I remember when the Tuffles first made contact with us. The then King of the Tuffles and his most trusted official came to my esteemed father. They came without guards, placing their trust in us. I want to make a similar visit to them and propose peace…
VEGETA III
with a slightly audible tone of anger in his voice
And what do I have to do with it?
VEGETA II
looking his son in the eye
I trust you the most and value you the highest, so I would like you to accompany me.
VEGETA III
sighs
And when would we go?
VEGETA II
Immediately. If Tuffle agrees to our demands, there will be no battle.
VEGETA III
resignedly
Then let us go…
calmly
I remember when the Tuffles first made contact with us. The then King of the Tuffles and his most trusted official came to my esteemed father. They came without guards, placing their trust in us. I want to make a similar visit to them and propose peace…
VEGETA III
with a slightly audible tone of anger in his voice
And what do I have to do with it?
VEGETA II
looking his son in the eye
I trust you the most and value you the highest, so I would like you to accompany me.
VEGETA III
sighs
And when would we go?
VEGETA II
Immediately. If Tuffle agrees to our demands, there will be no battle.
VEGETA III
resignedly
Then let us go…
The warriors bow to the king and prince, then disperse to allow them passage. The Saiyan ruler and his son make their way towards the main entrance of the palace. As they move further away from the soldiers, old Vegeta II initiates the conversation once again.
VEGETA II
walks, leaning on his cane
It seems to me that you don't like my idea…
VEGETA III
forcing a smile
I just can't believe that the same Saiyan who taught me how to fight is now avoiding confrontation with the enemy himself.
walks, leaning on his cane
It seems to me that you don't like my idea…
VEGETA III
forcing a smile
I just can't believe that the same Saiyan who taught me how to fight is now avoiding confrontation with the enemy himself.
VEGETA II
seriously
I have many years behind me. Not many Saiyans get the chance to reach such an age. It's because of our combative customs. I am fortunate — I am the king, others risk their lives for me…
VEGETA III
smiles slightly, this time genuinely
You've certainly become more talkative with age…
VEGETA II
chuckles softly
That's true.
continues more seriously
But that's not the point. For many years, I've been haunted by the thought that as a people, we are going astray. I hoped I could change our customs, but I chose my goal too late. I lack the youthful determination… I thought I could at least prevent another war and live out my days in peace. Unfortunately, we had to pay for our mistakes and the mistakes of our ancestors with a famine. Fighting the Tuffles became our only chance of survival… I didn't want it, but my old mind couldn't see any other path, and I guess it's not suited for anything else…
VEGETA III
thoughtfully
You're right, a change in customs would be good… When I look at the rebellious children, who are still not tainted to the core with discipline and military rules, I see in their attitude an opportunity to create a new kind of warriors! They might not bow perfectly to their superiors, they might not always stick to their tactics, but surely the fire of Saiyan valor would burn stronger within them!
VEGETA II
sighs heavily
That's not what I meant… I rather wished for us to become gentler, to solve problems through thought, not killing. If we had learned to better take care of our own wealth earlier, we wouldn't have to reach out for the goods of others today… But perhaps it's just my senile fantasy after all…
smiles
When I observe you, I'm glad I didn't tear into Saiyan customs in the end! That task is beyond me. Valor is in our blood… especially in the young, like you!
seriously
I have many years behind me. Not many Saiyans get the chance to reach such an age. It's because of our combative customs. I am fortunate — I am the king, others risk their lives for me…
VEGETA III
smiles slightly, this time genuinely
You've certainly become more talkative with age…
VEGETA II
chuckles softly
That's true.
continues more seriously
But that's not the point. For many years, I've been haunted by the thought that as a people, we are going astray. I hoped I could change our customs, but I chose my goal too late. I lack the youthful determination… I thought I could at least prevent another war and live out my days in peace. Unfortunately, we had to pay for our mistakes and the mistakes of our ancestors with a famine. Fighting the Tuffles became our only chance of survival… I didn't want it, but my old mind couldn't see any other path, and I guess it's not suited for anything else…
VEGETA III
thoughtfully
You're right, a change in customs would be good… When I look at the rebellious children, who are still not tainted to the core with discipline and military rules, I see in their attitude an opportunity to create a new kind of warriors! They might not bow perfectly to their superiors, they might not always stick to their tactics, but surely the fire of Saiyan valor would burn stronger within them!
VEGETA II
sighs heavily
That's not what I meant… I rather wished for us to become gentler, to solve problems through thought, not killing. If we had learned to better take care of our own wealth earlier, we wouldn't have to reach out for the goods of others today… But perhaps it's just my senile fantasy after all…
smiles
When I observe you, I'm glad I didn't tear into Saiyan customs in the end! That task is beyond me. Valor is in our blood… especially in the young, like you!
The king and prince reach the entrance. Vegeta III knocks firmly on the door.
VEGETA III
calls out
Let us in! We come to negotiate!
VEGETA II
softly, to Vegeta III
Not like that!
calls out
I am Vegeta the Second, son of Vegeta the First, King of the Saiyans! With me is my son, Prince Vegeta! We come with a proposal for peace!
GUARD
opens the gate, looks out and says uncertainly
I wasn't allowed to let anyone in…
VEGETA III
huskily
You can let us in out of kindness, or we can enter over your dead body. The choice is yours.
VEGETA II
calmly
We come without any intention of harming you. There are no soldiers with us. We want to speak with King Tuffle.
GUARD
nervously swallows saliva
I'll see what can be done…
calls out
Let us in! We come to negotiate!
VEGETA II
softly, to Vegeta III
Not like that!
calls out
I am Vegeta the Second, son of Vegeta the First, King of the Saiyans! With me is my son, Prince Vegeta! We come with a proposal for peace!
GUARD
opens the gate, looks out and says uncertainly
I wasn't allowed to let anyone in…
VEGETA III
huskily
You can let us in out of kindness, or we can enter over your dead body. The choice is yours.
VEGETA II
calmly
We come without any intention of harming you. There are no soldiers with us. We want to speak with King Tuffle.
GUARD
nervously swallows saliva
I'll see what can be done…
The guard closes the gate and walks away.
VEGETA II
We can only wait now…
VEGETA III
frowns
Don't you think they treated us with complete disrespect? After all, we are the rulers of a free nation!
VEGETA II
But we are also their enemies… They are at war with us, a war that has claimed many lives.
We can only wait now…
VEGETA III
frowns
Don't you think they treated us with complete disrespect? After all, we are the rulers of a free nation!
VEGETA II
But we are also their enemies… They are at war with us, a war that has claimed many lives.
VEGETA III
sighs
The gate opens wide. This time, revealing equally uniformed Tuffle guards, each holding a rifle.
HEAD GUARD
gravely
My lord, King Tuffle the Thirteenth, despite the assassination attempt on our scientists that occurred today, has agreed to an audience. However, he insisted that we escort you to his throne room.
VEGETA III
angered, about to say something
VEGETA II
interrupting his son
I accept these terms. Lead the way.
gravely
My lord, King Tuffle the Thirteenth, despite the assassination attempt on our scientists that occurred today, has agreed to an audience. However, he insisted that we escort you to his throne room.
VEGETA III
angered, about to say something
VEGETA II
interrupting his son
I accept these terms. Lead the way.
The Tuffles surround King Vegeta II and his son, then lead them through the main path across the courtyard of the palace square.
VEGETA II
audibly displeased, turns to his son quietly
That attack… that's the matter that detained you on your way here?
VEGETA III
softly
It wasn't an assassination at all. They were trying to abduct children, our scouts…
VEGETA II
firmly
That's irrelevant now. Focus instead on not doing anything similarly foolish by my side. It would be a great shame for our entire people.
VEGETA III
sighs
Of course…
The Saiyan monarch and his heir, escorted by the Tuffle guards, enter the grand palace of King Tuffle XIII. Inside, they pass by exquisite decorations and advanced technology they've never seen before.
VEGETA III
somewhat scornfully
If they can afford all this, surely they could spare us some land without much loss…
VEGETA II
gloomily
It's their land. They acquired it themselves and tended to it for years. If they were the ones to oppose us, you'd likely do the same.
VEGETA III
falls silent, disheartened
HEAD GUARD
seriously
Here is the entrance to the throne room. The king is beyond these doors. We will stay here, but we will intervene if our ruler is threatened.
VEGETA III
smirks ironically and approaches the doors, but after a moment he stops and turns to his father
Perhaps you should enter first, father.
VEGETA II
with satisfaction
Thank you for the consideration. I was beginning to think you had forgotten about me.
somewhat scornfully
If they can afford all this, surely they could spare us some land without much loss…
VEGETA II
gloomily
It's their land. They acquired it themselves and tended to it for years. If they were the ones to oppose us, you'd likely do the same.
VEGETA III
falls silent, disheartened
HEAD GUARD
seriously
Here is the entrance to the throne room. The king is beyond these doors. We will stay here, but we will intervene if our ruler is threatened.
VEGETA III
smirks ironically and approaches the doors, but after a moment he stops and turns to his father
Perhaps you should enter first, father.
VEGETA II
with satisfaction
Thank you for the consideration. I was beginning to think you had forgotten about me.
The doors open. In the gilded hall, perched on a peculiar wooden throne that doesn't quite match the rest of the palace, sits the somewhat aged King Tuffle XIII.
TUFFLE
seriously, but with a hint of distrust
Welcome… I've heard you come for diplomatic reasons.
VEGETA II
calmly
If that's what you call peace talks here, then yes.
seriously, but with a hint of distrust
Welcome… I've heard you come for diplomatic reasons.
VEGETA II
calmly
If that's what you call peace talks here, then yes.
TUFFLE
claps his hands
Servants! Bring a seat for King Vegeta and his son, Prince Vegeta!
VEGETA III
coldly
I can stand. I'm still young.
TUFFLE
frowns
Well… Alright then…
claps his hands
Servants! Bring a seat for King Vegeta and his son, Prince Vegeta!
VEGETA III
coldly
I can stand. I'm still young.
TUFFLE
frowns
Well… Alright then…
A servant brings a decorated chair for King Vegeta. The elder Saiyan takes his seat.
VEGETA III
impatiently
Let's get to the point.
VEGETA II
calmly
Please forgive my son…
VEGETA III
outraged, thinks
"Please forgive"?! Has my father forgotten that he speaks from the position of a person whose will determines the lives of all remaining Tuffles? From the position of a leader who has already seized almost all the lands of this weak people?
TUFFLE
with a false smile
Of course. That's just how young people are… But he does have a point this time. King Vegeta — tell me, what are your proposals for a potential peace?
VEGETA II
seriously
I've reconsidered our initial demands… The area we wanted from you could be considered… too large. So, I have a different proposal, one I don't intend to violate for the rest of my life.
TUFFLE
surprised
For the rest of your life? What kind of proposal is that?
impatiently
Let's get to the point.
VEGETA II
calmly
Please forgive my son…
VEGETA III
outraged, thinks
"Please forgive"?! Has my father forgotten that he speaks from the position of a person whose will determines the lives of all remaining Tuffles? From the position of a leader who has already seized almost all the lands of this weak people?
TUFFLE
with a false smile
Of course. That's just how young people are… But he does have a point this time. King Vegeta — tell me, what are your proposals for a potential peace?
VEGETA II
seriously
I've reconsidered our initial demands… The area we wanted from you could be considered… too large. So, I have a different proposal, one I don't intend to violate for the rest of my life.
TUFFLE
surprised
For the rest of your life? What kind of proposal is that?
VEGETA II
All we need is an area three times smaller, but situated in your agricultural district, where the soil is more fertile. We will fully develop it into farmland and transport our crops from there to Sadala without encroaching on your territory. Consequently, we will relinquish the remaining lands we currently occupy. However, I invariably insist that the area you transfer to us no longer falls under your authority but is solely under Saiyan control.
TUFFLE
disgruntled
And why is it so important to you that this area no longer remains under our rule? Wouldn't it be enough for us to lend it to you?
VEGETA III
firmly
My father doesn't need to explain anything to you, King Tuffle. He speaks from the position of the victor, or at least the one who holds the upper hand in this war.
TUFFLE
angrily looks at Vegeta III
VEGETA II
sighs quietly and continues with his characteristic calmness
Of course, I can explain everything… It stems from the nature of my people. They won't tolerate the fact that they're relying on the grace of others. Their distant ancestors obtained everything by their own hands, through strength or labor. Today's Saiyans desire the same.
TUFFLE
addressing Vegeta II but still glaring angrily at Vegeta III
And what do I care about your nature? What you're proposing, although less audacious than your initial plan, still amounts to plunder! Do you expect me to let myself be remembered as a weak king who allowed himself to be robbed?!
VEGETA III
furiously
Show some respect!
VEGETA II
to Vegeta III
Calm down, my son…
to King Tuffle, sadly
If you don't agree, they'll remember you as one of the kings who led his people to ruin…
TUFFLE
outraged
You were supposed to negotiate peace, and now you're threatening me?!
VEGETA II
averting his gaze
I don't desire this, but I know I have the power to destroy all that is left of you Tuffles…
TUFFLE
trembling, rises from his chair
I knew it! I knew from the beginning that you're just primitive murderers who can't talk, only destroy!
VEGETA II
calmly rises from his chair too
We are different, Tuffle. I've led my people this far, even though I'm older than you. And you've remained here, indifferent to the fate of most of the Tuffles, as long as the threat doesn't directly affect you. You could have saved yourself and them at little cost, choosing lesser disgrace over greater. You chose the greater one.
moved and deeply saddened
Our conversation ends here. My son… we're leaving.
he turns and slowly heads towards the exit
VEGETA III
glares angrily at King Tuffle, then follows his father out
TUFFLE
emotionally shaken; still trembles, watching the departing Saiyans; speaks softly, but with immense anger
How dare he…? How dare he judge me?! How dare he call my decisions disgraceful?! Isn't it more disgraceful to reach out for someone else's land?!
almost frantic from the rage, he rises from the throne and reaches behind it
SERVANT
peering from a side entrance, speaks timidly
Your Highness, is everything alright?
The Saiyan monarch and his son are already beyond the gate, passing by the guards standing at attention.
TUFFLE
without reacting to the servant's question, retrieves a gilded, narrow pistol from behind the throne; speaks slightly louder
If he wants war, he'll get it! War to the end! And he'll be one of its victims!
he aims the pistol at the now-distant Vegeta II, who has his back turned to him
Perish, barbarian!
SERVANT
terrified
Your Highness, please don't do this! No!
without reacting to the servant's question, retrieves a gilded, narrow pistol from behind the throne; speaks slightly louder
If he wants war, he'll get it! War to the end! And he'll be one of its victims!
he aims the pistol at the now-distant Vegeta II, who has his back turned to him
Perish, barbarian!
SERVANT
terrified
Your Highness, please don't do this! No!
Tuffle XIII, consumed by anger and despair, pulls the trigger.
A red laser beam flies towards Vegeta II, hitting his right side. The old man drops his cane and falls to the ground. He breathes heavily. Vegeta III is completely disoriented. Even the Tuffle guards are stunned.
A red laser beam flies towards Vegeta II, hitting his right side. The old man drops his cane and falls to the ground. He breathes heavily. Vegeta III is completely disoriented. Even the Tuffle guards are stunned.
VEGETA III
alarmed
Father, what's happened to you?!
VEGETA II
touches his right side with his hand, then looks at it, seeing blood
He shot me… He shot me in the back…!
VEGETA III
overtaken by wrath, clenches his fists as he turns to Tuffle XIII, his gaze filled with wild fury
TUFFLE
realizing his predicament, he pulls the trigger again, this time aiming at Prince Vegeta
VEGETA III
unleashes his Ki, neutralizing the laser beam shot from King Tuffle's pistol
HAAAAAAH!
TUFFLE
suddenly overwhelmed with fear
H-Help…! Guards, anyone!
SERVANT
without looking back at the king, flees through a side exit
alarmed
Father, what's happened to you?!
VEGETA II
touches his right side with his hand, then looks at it, seeing blood
He shot me… He shot me in the back…!
VEGETA III
overtaken by wrath, clenches his fists as he turns to Tuffle XIII, his gaze filled with wild fury
TUFFLE
realizing his predicament, he pulls the trigger again, this time aiming at Prince Vegeta
VEGETA III
unleashes his Ki, neutralizing the laser beam shot from King Tuffle's pistol
HAAAAAAH!
TUFFLE
suddenly overwhelmed with fear
H-Help…! Guards, anyone!
SERVANT
without looking back at the king, flees through a side exit
Vegeta III swiftly flies towards the Tuffle king, grabbing him by the neck with his right hand and lifting him up. The striking height difference between the Saiyan prince and Tuffle XIII is now glaringly evident, with the latter now rendered speechless by fear, in stark contrast to just a moment ago.
VEGETA III
coldly, but with palpable rage in his voice
Not only did you fail to show respect to my father, but you also attempted to kill him…
TUFFLE
mumbles for a moment, then overcomes his fear and with much struggle speaks to Vegeta III
Let me go, you savage beast! I sit on the throne… which was built in the days… when your ancestors… made huts from their own filth!
VEGETA III
stung by the insult, he flexes his muscles, tightening the grip on Tuffle's neck and then smashes him against the wooden throne, completely shattering it
Hmph!
TUFFLE
with splinters embedded in his face and eyes, he screams in agony
Fool! This throne is many times older than your father!
VEGETA III
leans over Tuffle
My father… might have cared about that… Unfortunately for you, you're not on his mercy now…
charges a yellow Ki wave in his left hand
TUFFLE
once again overwhelmed by fear
P-Please… s-spare me!
VEGETA III
through gritted teeth, barely keeping his temper in check
The trait I detest the most is weakness… But worse than weakness itself is weakness that doesn't know its place in the pecking order!
HEAD GUARD
bursts into the throne room with his unit, aiming his weapon at Vegeta III
Halt! Don't you dare harm the king!
coldly, but with palpable rage in his voice
Not only did you fail to show respect to my father, but you also attempted to kill him…
TUFFLE
mumbles for a moment, then overcomes his fear and with much struggle speaks to Vegeta III
Let me go, you savage beast! I sit on the throne… which was built in the days… when your ancestors… made huts from their own filth!
VEGETA III
stung by the insult, he flexes his muscles, tightening the grip on Tuffle's neck and then smashes him against the wooden throne, completely shattering it
Hmph!
TUFFLE
with splinters embedded in his face and eyes, he screams in agony
Fool! This throne is many times older than your father!
VEGETA III
leans over Tuffle
My father… might have cared about that… Unfortunately for you, you're not on his mercy now…
charges a yellow Ki wave in his left hand
TUFFLE
once again overwhelmed by fear
P-Please… s-spare me!
VEGETA III
through gritted teeth, barely keeping his temper in check
The trait I detest the most is weakness… But worse than weakness itself is weakness that doesn't know its place in the pecking order!
HEAD GUARD
bursts into the throne room with his unit, aiming his weapon at Vegeta III
Halt! Don't you dare harm the king!
VEGETA III
ignores the guards and unleashes the Ki wave towards Tuffle
Perish, scum!
TUFFLE
in agony, torn apart by the wave of Ki
AAAAAAAAAAAAARGH!
ignores the guards and unleashes the Ki wave towards Tuffle
Perish, scum!
TUFFLE
in agony, torn apart by the wave of Ki
AAAAAAAAAAAAARGH!
Prince Vegeta's blast completely incinerates Tuffle XIII. Then, the shocked guards open fire. Vegeta, however, remains unfazed. He manifests his aura and deflects the Tuffles’ projectiles. He then leaps straight at the guard commander and strikes him in the face with his fist, twisting his neck 180 degrees, instantly killing him. Next, he ruthlessly massacres the remaining guards who flee in panic after the death of their commander. Some of them are finished off quickly, while those who managed to escape further get brought down by Ki blasts.
After the massacre he committed, Vegeta III lets out a scream full of helpless rage and rushes to his father lying on the ground***.
After the massacre he committed, Vegeta III lets out a scream full of helpless rage and rushes to his father lying on the ground***.
VEGETA III
shaking King Vegeta violently
Father! Father!
VEGETA II
in a hushed voice
Don't shake me like that… It hurts…
VEGETA III
looks around and, not seeing anything useful, unleashes a Ki blast towards the ceiling
You need help…!
VEGETA II
coughs
VEGETA III
lifts Vegeta II and flies out through the hole in the ceiling, made by himself earlier, holding his father; shouts extremely loudly
Help! Saiyans! The king is in need!
flies towards the Saiyan camp
shaking King Vegeta violently
Father! Father!
VEGETA II
in a hushed voice
Don't shake me like that… It hurts…
VEGETA III
looks around and, not seeing anything useful, unleashes a Ki blast towards the ceiling
You need help…!
VEGETA II
coughs
VEGETA III
lifts Vegeta II and flies out through the hole in the ceiling, made by himself earlier, holding his father; shouts extremely loudly
Help! Saiyans! The king is in need!
flies towards the Saiyan camp
Quickly, the Marshal flies to meet Vegeta III accompanied by several trusted soldiers.
MARSHAL
shocked
My prince… What has happened? These were supposed to be peace talks…
VEGETA III
glaring angrily at his weakening father
This is their doing!
MARSHAL
frowning
What an affront to our king!
VEGETA III
exasperated
Take the king to the medic… Meanwhile, we must immediately launch an attack. The moon is already in the sky… Let every Saiyan who is willing to, transform into a Great Ape!
MARSHAL
puzzled
The king instructed that only one-third of our warriors should do so…
VEGETA III
coldly
I am the one in charge now. No Tuffle is to be left alive unless I order otherwise. Let them feel the retribution that befalls those who dare to insult Saiyans!
MARSHAL
takes the king into his arms from Vegeta III, speaks sorrowfully
I am at your command, my prince…
prepares to depart
VEGETA II
tries to speak, but his voice comes out weakly
Wait…!
VEGETA III
Yes, father?
VEGETA II
grasps his son's hand with his right palm
If I don't make it through this… Be a good king, my son… I wish for you to find nothing but good for the Saiyans and that you… never have to face the choices I did…
releases his son's hand
VEGETA III
looks at his palm — it's stained with his father's blood
Thank you… But don't say such things! The medic will restore you to health!
VEGETA II
gloomily
I wish I could believe that…
to the Marshal
Let's go…!
shocked
My prince… What has happened? These were supposed to be peace talks…
VEGETA III
glaring angrily at his weakening father
This is their doing!
MARSHAL
frowning
What an affront to our king!
VEGETA III
exasperated
Take the king to the medic… Meanwhile, we must immediately launch an attack. The moon is already in the sky… Let every Saiyan who is willing to, transform into a Great Ape!
MARSHAL
puzzled
The king instructed that only one-third of our warriors should do so…
VEGETA III
coldly
I am the one in charge now. No Tuffle is to be left alive unless I order otherwise. Let them feel the retribution that befalls those who dare to insult Saiyans!
MARSHAL
takes the king into his arms from Vegeta III, speaks sorrowfully
I am at your command, my prince…
prepares to depart
VEGETA II
tries to speak, but his voice comes out weakly
Wait…!
VEGETA III
Yes, father?
VEGETA II
grasps his son's hand with his right palm
If I don't make it through this… Be a good king, my son… I wish for you to find nothing but good for the Saiyans and that you… never have to face the choices I did…
releases his son's hand
VEGETA III
looks at his palm — it's stained with his father's blood
Thank you… But don't say such things! The medic will restore you to health!
VEGETA II
gloomily
I wish I could believe that…
to the Marshal
Let's go…!
The soldiers head back to the camp with the king. Vegeta III watches them go.
VEGETA III
thinks to himself
Whatever happens, father, I will lead the Saiyans to glory. The way is clear to me. Perhaps you wouldn't have taken it, but I still have the strength to do so. We must remain true to what we are. Any other path will lead to weakness. And a Saiyan cannot be weak. He cannot…
rushes back into the palace grounds to continue the fight with the Tuffles
thinks to himself
Whatever happens, father, I will lead the Saiyans to glory. The way is clear to me. Perhaps you wouldn't have taken it, but I still have the strength to do so. We must remain true to what we are. Any other path will lead to weakness. And a Saiyan cannot be weak. He cannot…
rushes back into the palace grounds to continue the fight with the Tuffles
The final battle with the Tuffles begins. Above the walls protecting the palace grounds, the increasingly numerous Saiyans transformed into Great Apes slowly begin to dominate. They send Ki blasts into the fortress, destroying reinforcements, utilizing their terrifying strength. On this day, they have decided to destroy everything the Tuffles have ever achieved. That's what their pride dictated, especially the pride of Prince Vegeta — the future King Vegeta III.
* * *
One of the "voices" — a Tuffle scientist with orange hair, who had left his companions just before the arrival of the Saiyan scout group — dashes up the winding stairs of the stone tower. Sounds of explosions, the laughter of invaders, and the cries of their victims reach his ears from outside the building.
SCIENTIST #2***
while running, speaks angrily
May Hell swallow you, Saiyans! One day… One day, you will pay for all of this!
after a moment of silence
Someone will take everything from you as well… Bury your world…
through gritted teeth
And if necessary, I'll do it myself!
while running, speaks angrily
May Hell swallow you, Saiyans! One day… One day, you will pay for all of this!
after a moment of silence
Someone will take everything from you as well… Bury your world…
through gritted teeth
And if necessary, I'll do it myself!
* * *
* * *