Dragon Ball/Z/GT Fan Fiction ❯ Butterflies & Hurricanes ❯ Chapter 18
[ X - Adult: No readers under 18. Contains Graphic Adult Themes/Extreme violence. ]
By: Froglady15 
Anime/Manga: Dragon Ball/Z/GT Fan Fiction | Genre(s): Action / Drama / Hentai / Romance / Suspense / Angst | Type: Alternate Universe | Uploaded On: 02.14.2016 | Updated On: 03.20.2016 | Pages: 13 | Words: 7.2K | Visits: 305 | Status: Completed
Anime/Manga: Dragon Ball/Z/GT Fan Fiction | Genre(s): Action / Drama / Hentai / Romance / Suspense / Angst | Type: Alternate Universe | Uploaded On: 02.14.2016 | Updated On: 03.20.2016 | Pages: 13 | Words: 7.2K | Visits: 305 | Status: Completed
Disclaimer: I don't own anything. Just my Husband,
laptop, my 3 dogs and a very overactive imagination… Dragon
Ball Z and any songs mentioned in this fic DO NOT belong to me. I'm
just borrowing them for my own twisted amusement.
Butterflies and Hurricanes
Chapter 18
Bulma was still observing Vegeta through the bond and the longer she observed, the more she really wished she could have heard what was going on as well, in fact she would have preferred to hear what was being said and not be able to see anything than see everything and not hear anything.
Vegeta hadn’t remained with Cold and his company for much longer when he was lead back to the lab and the small sterile room he had woken up in.
The Ice-jin that looked like Frieza pushed him into the small room, not undoing his hand cuffs and Gero said something briefly to him before shutting and presumably locking the door.
-0-0-0-
Vegeta stood there a moment, taking in his surroundings. The walls and floor were shiny white or some smooth structure he was not sure what they were made of, but they were cold and once again, he missed not having his boots and was thankful of his choice in thermal flight suit; though despite the protection to all of his major extremities, his bare hands and feet were beginning to feel numb at this point. So numb that he almost could not feel his lower legs.
After walking the small perimeter of the room and noting that there indeed was no weakness in it that he could use to his advantage at this point, so far as he could tell, he sat down and leaned against the wall; he needed to think.
His mind began to race; however he was so tired that his thoughts wandered from one thing to the next and he found himself beginning to become more and more agitated. He took a breath and sat there a moment with his eyes closed and his head against the cold wall and tried to clear his thoughts. Rest was what he needed; he needed to rest enough to at least regain his mental faculties, Gero would be returning soon.
He let down his mental wall then, reaching out to her. He was expecting her to be angry and lash out at him for blocking her when she had specifically asked him not to and he had told her that he wouldn’t and then seconds later had done just that. Instead of anger, she responded immediately to him and clung to him and embraced his presence.
How bad is it? She asked, her tone laced with concern and held no trace of resentment.
Bad.
Gero is there, isn’t he?
How do you know that? He asked.
Don’t be mad, but I was trying to get in on what was going on with you, she admitted, hoping he wouldn’t fly off the handle at her intruding. I couldn’t hear anything, I only saw what you could see and even that was somewhat limited. I saw Gero, Frieza and I am assuming King Cold was the big guy?
While he did not want her privy to what may happen, her presence within him brought him some comfort and he found himself hard pressed to reprimand her. The only reason he was not angry with her for attempting to get into his head was because if the roles were reversed, he would insist on going through it all with her.
It was still different though. She didn't have the same strength and endurance he had. He had been conditioned to handle anything and everything an adversary may throw at him. She was not and while he knew she would be angry with him, depending on how bad things got, he wouldn't subject her to it no matter how much she fought him on it. His pride would not allow it.
So can you tell me why Gero and Frieza are there? She asked.
That is not Frieza, it is an android Ice-jin made in his image, only stronger and more powerful and seemingly unbeatable; there were hundreds of them, they took us all out. He answered in a defeated tone. If it had been Frieza, I could have handled it. They killed Kakarott; one of them wrapped itself around him and self-destructed. Kakarott did not even have a chance.
I know, I heard. I’m so sorry, Vegeta, she said soothingly, her sadness for her friend’s death and for what it would put Chi-Chi through hitting her hard again.
Stupid, fool, Vegeta growled, though she could feel that he was more sad than angry. He ascended. That was why he insisted on coming with me instead of remaining with you like I had asked.
He probably just thought he could help and that if he’d ascended that he could make a difference, Vegeta.
I can appreciate that, but he did not inform me of his ascension until we had already lost. Vegeta said and she could tell he was angry now. The stupid fool! He kept it from me; instead of coming forward with it after our departure so that we could train and improve on it, he kept it to himself until all was lost. I surrendered myself and the idiot clown showed up in some heroic attempt and chose that time to reveal it.
I’m sorry, Vegeta.
It would have made no difference anyway, he scoffed.
Well, I’m still glad it’s not Frieza, but what’s Gero doing there? She asked, changing the subject, wanting to know what was happening with Vegeta. Gero’s possible involvement was what scared her the most at this point.
I don't fully know, he replied. I did not kill him when I saw him on Frieza's ship because I did not know who he was. He somehow managed to escape the ship and sought Cold out after the fact and told him what happened. Now he is in Cold's confidence.
This isn't good, Vegeta, she said. Gero is crazy. I don't even want to know what he's going to do. I vaguely remember him being very interested in Saiyan anatomy and structure. Vegeta, he is sick. Oh, god, I can't even begin to think-
Do not get yourself upset yet, he interrupted her. I still have to go to trial with Cold for my crimes against his son.
Trial? She asked. So what does that all entail?
I do not know. It is nothing more thana waste of time though. They have already decided that I am guilty. Nothing will change that verdict. I only wish they would just tell me my sentence.
No, Vegeta, she said. This may be a good thing. The longer it takes, the more time we have to figure out how to get out of this.
There is no getting out of this, Woman, he sighed. By the way, you and Trunks will be coming here apparently.
Yeah, I know. I was told that.
Has my father caused you any trouble since he saw you last or given you any indication of what his plan is?
No, she answered uneasily. He did say something about Trunks and I being sent to Cold as part of whatever deal they made but I don't know anything more than that.
And he has still not harmed you?
No,
Vegeta frowned to himself. While he was greatly relieved that his father had not committed anything against Bulma, it did not make sense. He would have assumed that he would have gone after her in some way the first chance he could. If for no other reason than because he would want to make the point that there was nothing he could do to help her.
I haven't seen him since I was thrown in here, she clarified, it was technically true. I gave him shit about betraying you.
Do not push your luck where he is concerned, he warned. Any provocation from you will set him off. If he has not done anything to you I am sure it would not take much to make him decide to go after you. I suspect the only reason you have not been harmed is because of whatever deal he has made with Cold. Perhaps you not being harmed was one of the conditions. But do not sass him.
I wasn't! She snipped defensively. I mean, I won't. I just thought he should know that what he has done to you is unforgivable and wrong and he should be ashamed of himself for betraying his son no matter how he feels about me. I told him he should be looking for a way to get you out instead of wasting his time with me.
Vegeta swallowed down the boyish hope that his father may have second thoughts about his decision and find a way to go back on his arrangement he’d made with Cold but he dismissed that thought as quickly as it came. If on the off chance his father did decide to go back on this, he knew it would cost him Bulma and Trunks. He knew that and that was not something he would be alright with; if his father suddenly suffered from a pang of conscience and wanted him back, he needed to accept Bulma and Trunks as well.
Bulma's heart sank as she caught his feelings about his father. It had been only a split second but she'd caught it and knew that she could absolutely not tell him now about his father. She buried those thoughts behind her as well as she could and hoped he would not have noticed. So what's this about a trial?
It is all bullshit, he scoffed. I am already guilty as far as Cold is concerned-
Well you did kill his son so it's not like you were framed. You are guilty.
Yes I know that! He snarled. But they have yet to determine my sentencing. I already told Cold everything and the events surrounding my actions. He does not see my killing his son for his crimes as just and therefore wants a trial to determine what he wants to do with me.
Oh, god. She sighed. I hope they don't sentence you to being a science experiment for Gero. Vegeta, there's no limit that he will not go to learn as much from you as he can!
That would not surprise me and it is apparently the plan until they begin trial. Cold has given Gero leave to do as he wishes so long as I am kept alive enough to endure a trial.
So how long until your trial? She asked, her own stomach clenching at the thought of what Vegeta may be subjected to within the next short while.
Apparently Cold wants to wait until your arrival.
My arrival? Why? She asked. What do I have to do with anything?
I do not know, he answered. Cold wishes to speak with you. Anything further, I don’t know.
But depending on when they left, it could be three weeks at most before they get here and then another three weeks before I get there, Vegeta. That’s six weeks with Gero!
There is nothing that can be done about it, Woman! He snarled, more harshly than he meant. Besides, he is a weak old fool. I am sure I have endured far worse during my time with Frieza.
Gero is crazy though, she reminded him again. He is a mad scientist, you are nothing more than a specimen, something to be studied and broken down and dissected, Vegeta; he is ruthless!
Enough! Woman, he cannot possibly throw anything at me that I cannot handle, in fact I hope he does his worst.
But Vegeta-
The more he inflicts on me, the stronger I become, remember? I will endure and I will bide my time until your arrival with the boy. Maybe then we may be able to find a way out.
Then we can leave together.
Hopefully.
We will, Vegeta, she said confidently.
Hmm, he grunted in response after several long minutes of stretched silence between them.
Are you alright? She asked in concern.
Yea, he answered quickly. I am just...
You sound like you are exhausted.
I am, he admitted. That bastard android drained me of every ounce of energy. I can barely keep my eyes open.
Well if they are leaving you alone for now, try and get some sleep, she advised. I will leave you alone.
He was quiet, so tired he almost couldn't form a coherent thought. You do not have to go, he said quietly. I will be able to rest better knowing that you are still alright.
I’m here, I won't go anywhere, she assured him. Just try to sleep. Everything with me is as okay it's going to be for the time being. I won't block you.
Hmm, he grunted and she could tell he was barely awake.
With her shoulder and arm still throbbing, Bulma closed her eyesand lay down on her side as comfortable as possible and tried to keep her thoughts quiet so as not to disturb him. Getting some rest was probably the best idea anyway.
She frowned at the king’s dead body still lying there just a few feet away from her and swallowed down a fresh wave of nausea; she sure hoped someone would come down soon if for no other reason than to remove the body and toss her some clothes. She had already given up on Brolly coming back to help her and wondered what had happened to him.
She hoped he was alright and Paragus wasn’t keeping him detained but then remembered who she was talking about. From there she began to worry about Trunks; was he still under Neesa’s care? She hoped he was alright and not in any distress or being neglected. At that thought, her stomach growled and she wondered how long it had been since she had eaten?
Her thoughts were interrupted as Paragus and two guards walked up to her. Bulma stood up, still keeping the Kings cape wrapped tightly around herself and guiltily put up a wall, blocking Vegeta. He was asleep, she reasoned and he needed to get some uninterrupted rest. Plus she did not want him to find out about his father just yet.
One of the guards tossed a pair of pants and loose fitting top to her through the bars and she grabbed it gratefully. "Where is Trunks? I want to see him." She demanded as she turned away from them and slipped into the ill-fitting clothes.
"He is fine," Paragus replied. "He is with the Prince. The maid is looking after them both."
"I still want to see him."
"And you will remain here and not make a fuss," Paragus snapped. "You hold no sway here. Until I figure out what we are doing with you, you will remain here." He said as a guard grabbed her by her upper arm and jerked her to him.
She cried out in pain, her arm and shoulders still sore from her encounter with the king. She was then shoved into an adjacent cell and the door was closed.
Bulma stood there and watched as the guards carefully wrapped the King up in his cape with the utmost care. "What are you going to do about him?" She asked.
"Nothing," Paragus sighed. "We will put him in his own bed chambers and let a maid find him."
"And then what?"
"We will orchestrate it and make it appear like a struggle happened and we will decide that it was one of the palace whores he keeps around for his amusement. We will say that one of them did it; no one would be surprised."
"And what will happen to that unfortunate girl?" She asked.
"Who cares?" Paragus shrugged. "I intend to rid the palace of all of them anyway. It is absolutely revolting for the palace to be crawling with whores to serve the king."
Bulma nodded, not disagreeing with his opinion on that. "So, what? You're just going to take the throne for yourself then? Wow how fortunate for you that things turned out this way."
"I will assume the position for the time being, yes; however I have someone else in mind to rule." Paragus said.
"And when Vegeta comes back?" She prodded.
"My dear, your precious Prince will not be returning. I admire your faith and unwavering loyalty to him however it is done," Paragus said, leaning against her cell wall and taking his attention off the soldiers trying to get the King ready to be moved. "Your only chance of seeing him again will be if Cold's men come and collect you."
"What do you mean if?"
"I personally think that it's in our best interests to have you remain here," Paragus shrugged. "I am willing to make a deal with Cold that would ensure that. I am waiting for him to contact me and we will make another deal."
"But the King made a deal with him already; you can't go back on it." She pointed out. While she did not want to go to Cold, she decided it was the better of the two scenarios. At least she would be with both Trunks and Vegeta.
"The king is dead. That means his agreement with Cold is no longer binding. So as the current leader of this planet, I am well within my right to make my own agreement with Cold."
Bulma looked at him a moment. "I don't know Cold, but from what I’ve heard, he doesn't seem like the most negotiable guy."
"He has the notorious Prince Vegeta in his custody and will still be getting your son as part of the bargain; he has no reason for complaint," Paragus shrugged. "And for good measure I will send Tarble with him. Then I will be rid of the Vegeta line all together."
"If you send Trunks away and keep me here, I will not work for you." She said plainly.
"Yes you will," he said, leaning in threateningly. "If you die then so does your precious prince."
"I'd rather die and have him die with me than stay alive knowing that he is suffering and being tortured." She said boldly, hoping he would not call her bluff. She needed to live if Vegeta was going to have a chance and she would not give up and abandon Trunks.
“We shall see,” he snorted, checking on the progress of the guards. They were about done.
“So what, I’m just going to be left down here?” she asked.
“For the time being, yes. I cannot risk you escaping.”
“Well can I at least have something to eat then?” she snorted.
“Of course!” he exclaimed in surprise. “I need you to be healthy and have all your mental faculties alert if you are to be working for us.”
She rolled her eyes. “Well in that case, can you send someone to fix my hand too?”
He frowned at her poorly bandaged hand.
“The asshole crushed it during my attempt at self-defense,” she explained. “I fixed it the best I could.”
Paragus snorted and then laughed. “What on Vegeta-sei did that fool prince see in you?” he asked between a fit of cruel laughter. “I just do not understand it; would you care to explain it to me?”
Bulma sighed in irritation. “Are you going to send someone to fix my hand or not?”
“No, I should think not.”
“But I will need it in order to do my work properly!” she objected, hoping if she put it that way, maybe he would be generous being that he did seem very interested in her working.
“You will endure, my dear,” Paragus shrugged, turning back to the soldiers who now had the king nicely wrapped up. “I will, however have a meal sent down to you.”
With no further comment, he left her standing there alone and on her own. At least she was clothed and the body of a perverted dead tyrant was no longer laying mere meters from her. She took heart in that and made herself as comfortable as possible.
She checked in on Vegeta quickly and was glad that he was still resting.
-0-0-0-
“I hate to disturb you, but I am very anxious to begin our work together.” Gero said, walking in with the Android about a half hour after his previous departure.
“Do not touch me!” Vegeta snarled as the Android yanked him up onto his feet.
“Now, before I get into the more important questions, tell me more of Bulma,” Gero demanded.
“There is nothing pertaining to her that you need to know.”
“There is a great deal I need to know,” Gero replied. “I was very excited to see the results of what kind of child you two produced; it looks like not all my hopes are lost. As she and your son will be joining us shortly. You claim to have undone everything that I had accomplished with her before?”
“Yes,” he growled.
"So I am to assume the two of you have reconciled then?" He asked with a look that made Vegeta wonder what he was really fishing for.
"Yes."
"Completely?" He asked, looking very pleased with the notion.
"Yes, completely! What are you getting at?"
"Well she should be on her way here within the week," Gero said slowly, the creepy grin on his face deepening, making Vegeta's stomach turn. "There wouldn't be a chance that she would be pregnant again, would there? If she was but you weren't aware before you left it will be apparent by the time she arrives here, approximately four weeks from now." Gero blabbered in an excited tone, mostly thinking out loud to himself.
Vegeta grit his teeth in anger. "There is absolutely no chance she is with child." He spat.
"I thought you said you two were reconciled." Gero objected.
"We are." Vegeta sneered, taking great delight in Gero's disappointment. "The woman is barren, you fool."
"What? Are you certain?" Gero asked, narrowing his eyes suspiciously at him.
"One hundred percent," Vegeta nodded. "The carrying and delivery of a Saiyan infant is no easy feat, in fact many Saiyan Women do not survive the birthing process and die as the child rips itself out of the womb if labor takes too long; it is nothing short of a miracle that Bulma survived at all. If I had not had the foresight to insist on her having the child on a technologically advanced planet that specializes only in the birthing of brats, she most certainly would have died of the complications.the process still left her severely scarred on the inside, enough that she is unable to bear a child ever again."
"You lie!" Gero snapped.
"I do not," Vegeta replied, shaking his head. Of course, it wasn't true but Gero did not have to know that. However it had been a close thing. So close that the doctors had advised him that conceiving another child with Bulma would be extremely risky and that she would have to be steadily monitored throughout the entire pregnancy, not just the final few weeks. "So you can kiss your hopes of another half-Saiyan brat to study good bye."
Gero glared at Vegeta a moment before waving his hand in dismissal. "No matter. The son you two have already produced will have to suffice, I suppose."
Vegeta growled at him.
Vegeta, is that true? Bulma's voice in his mind asked.
No, he replied, regretting not being more mindful of keeping her out of his head.
Are you sure?
Yes! He replied irritably. Why would I keep that information from you?
I don't know, she said quietly.
You are perfectly fine, he reassured her. You were given a shot when we returned to Vegeta-sei. So for the time being, you are barren until it wears off. This freak does not need to know that side of it.
“In any case, I am very excited on learning everything I can about you and your remarkable species,” Gero said, seemingly already over the possibility that Bulma was not pregnant. “I don’t even know where to start!
“During my time on Frieza’s ship, I had ample opportunity to learn much about the Saiyans; Lord Frieza had a simply incredible database on nearly every species this universe has to offer. I researched many races in my spare time but none piqued my interest as much as your race. How fortunate for me that it was the Saiyans whom Frieza had a certain fixation on, so he had nearly endless amounts of data on your kind and you specifically.
“When you had been located and Bulma was brought on board, I must say I could not have been happier! You see, originally it was supposed to be Bulma, Doctor Briefs and myself all working together with Lord Frieza but it did not work out that way, somehow she slipped through the cracks and I had assumed she would never again be found, which was why her arrival was so fortunate in not only was a great mind retrieved, but what a coincidence that it was you who found her and as a result of her capture eventually brought you to us as well. Then what with her pregnant with your offspring, oh my god, it was as if everything was meant to be!” Gero ranted, walking circles around Vegeta, taking him in and looking him over with a sick scientific fascination.
“And then you had to come along and spoil it all!” he snarled.
Vegeta smirked in glee. “Well you did not learn very much, did you? A Saiyan will never leave his mate behind. Not only that, but you should have counted yourself fortunate to have survived and taken to hiding yourself away for the remainder of your pitiful existence instead of wasting all of your time and effort in pursuit of me; mark my words, you will live to regret it.”
“Oh, I know plenty about you, my prince,” he sneered, pulling out a small tablet from his lab coat and taping it so that it expanded into a small 3D screen with Vegeta’s image on it. Next to him were statistics and paragraphs of information. “I am sure you must remember when you arrived on Frieza’s ship a Ki dampening collar was put on you. It was actually engineered by your little wife!
“You do not know this, but I made a few rather minute, but essential changes to it just prior to your arrival. I did not fully trust that she was ready to see you and that perhaps she was not pretending to have succumbed to the reprogramming I had done to her; her father did not know this, but he had thought himself so clever that he believed I did not know that he was pretending. I never remedied it because I did not want to risk diminishing his natural brilliance and I had more important matters to worry about and he still did as asked, so I saw no harm in leaving the poor fool alone.
“Anyway, what she did not know was that the entire time you wore the collar, it monitored and recorded every possible thing about you: your weight, blood pressure, external physiology, energy levels, you name it!” he gloated, clapping his hands in delight. “And while yes, she did shut it off so that your potential was no longer stifled, it still was monitoring your every move and change; that Super Saiyan transformation is the most amazing thing I have ever witnessed or come across in all my years as a scientist. I must commend you for it!”
Vegeta simply nodded in reply, not happy that this individual knew so much about him.
I had no idea, Vegeta. He heard Bulma say quietly.
“You have nothing to say?” Gero asked.
“What is there to say?”
“I would have assumed you would want to gloat and boast over abilities; they are remarkable to say the least.”
Vegeta shrugged and said nothing.
Gero glared at him a moment. "Anyway, I know I said this already but I am very looking forward to working with you and researching your race's anatomy. You being as gifted as you are, are the perfect specimen. I couldn't be happier."
"Wonderful." Vegeta deadpanned.
"Oh it will be! You and I together will accomplish great things!" Gero said, clasping his hands together before beckoning at the Android to bring escort Vegeta out of his cell and out into the lab. “We can even start now!”
The Android took hold of Vegeta’s upper arm and lead him out. “Sit,” It commanded, as they stood next to a large, metal examination chair.
“Go fuck yourself,” Vegeta snorted.
It looked questioningly at Gero, who nodded. The Android smiled and immediately, Vegeta felt his already low energy levels rapidly diminishing again. “I will make you if I have to.” It said.
Vegeta grit his teeth in anger and humiliation at being completely at their mercy. There was nothing he could do but comply at the moment. As it was, he was still exhausted and his injuries had not begun repairing themselves yet.
“I would not work against It if I were you,” Gero advised, calmly. “The collar you are currently wearing not only suppresses your ki but it prevents you from replenishing your energy supply as well.”
He glared at Gero, but took a seat nonetheless, not wanting the Android to touch him anymore.
Just do as he says, Vegeta. Bulma said to him. She understood his refusal to cooperate with him but she also knew that Gero would only hurt him for his defiance and in his current state would be very easy for him to do; not to mention Gero would gain great satisfaction from it.
Leave me alone now, he replied softly, not wanting her to be privy to whatever this man wanted to inflict on him, supposedly in the name of science.
No, Vegeta. I won’t leave you, not now.
Woman, is it not enough that I am humiliated by my own defeat and inability to have had the foresight to not only win this but keep my family safe; I get to go through whatever this deranged old fool has planned with you in my head, aware of everything as all of my weaknesses are exposed and ripped open for all to see because I am unable to defend myself! He argued in anger as he closed his eyes, and allowed Gero to un-cuff one of his wrists and fastened one forearm to one of the arms with a buckle.
“Smart decision; do not think of striking me, It will make your life a living hell if you do.” Gero chortled.
Vegeta said and did nothing but hold his breath as Gero fastened his other arm to the chair; he had been careless and unsympathetic to his injuries to his collarbone and shoulder and sitting in such a prim, proper position as he was only brought back the throbbing pain that had subsided somewhat, due to the cold. He watched the older man as he moved to the other side of his lab, grabbing a tray with several utensils on it and placing it on the counter tops beside him.
I get that, Vegeta, I do, she said quietly. She did understand it; and her heart broke for him because she understood how hard this was going to be for him. Not just physically, she knew him well enough to know that he could physically withstand just about anything Gero may decide to inflict on him; but mentally and emotionally this would be devastating to him. While she saw the bond as a blessing in which it was a means that they could communicate freely and be connected to one another, she could understand how to him it would feel like a curse right now. But you wouldn’t leave me, would you? If it was your father harassing me I know you wouldn’t even though that would be the last thing I would ever want you to be subjected to knowing, you would insist on experiencing it and going through it with me even though it would nearly kill me to have you there.
That is different.
How so, Vegeta? She challenged him.
It is My job to protect you and see you through anything you may experience whether it be good or bad; that is my role as your mate, not for you to endure and go through my troubles.
Well, from where I come from mates are supposed to support and carry each other through hard times as much as through the good times, Vegeta; maybe even more when things are bad! I may be physically unable to endure things but mentally I am strong. I cannot walk in there and bust you out on my own, but I can be there with you mentally through this bond we have and I can keep you strong that way. Do not shut me out! I don’t care how bad it is, let me be there for you as you would be for me.
“Now, first things first,” Gero mumbled, walking up to Vegeta with a pair of scissors. Vegeta watched him warily as he randomly grabbed a long, spiked chunk of his hair and cut it off close to the scalp.
“Hey! That will not grow back!” he snarled in outrage, watching Gero place the large chunk of his hair into a sterile container and labeling it.
“I only took one of the spikes on the back off, no one will notice,” Gero sighed. “Wait, what do you mean it will not grow back?” he asked in interest, turning to look at him.
Vegeta cringed, realizing he had just voluntarily given him more information about him, even though it was more trivial than anything; however any piece of information that furthered the progress of his “research” was not good in his point of view. “It means that it will not grow back.” he deadpanned.
“Hmm,” Gero grunted, turning back to his newest specimen and writing a few notes on the lid. “Interesting; is that the reason for the receding hairline at such a young age? You are only twenty-two if my statistics about you are correct. Is it common for Saiyans to experience hair loss at a young age?”
“It is not hair loss!” he growled. “I was born with my hairline, you insipid fool! If you knew anything at all, you would know that my hairline is the mark of royalty. Over twenty generations of kings before me had the mark of the royalty!”
“I see, once again, there is that arrogance I have heard so much about.” Gero nodded, adding more notes to his collection of data.
A moment later he forced Vegeta’s mouth open to take a throat swab; he tried to look into his mouth and examine his teeth, but Vegeta did not cooperate with him. “I will perform a full examination on you one way or another, you know.” Gero said, coming up to him once again with a pair of scissors and began cutting off his fight suit. First at the collar around the neck, down to his chest and then began cutting the sleeves up the length of his arm so that they lay open.
The coolness of the room attacked his exposed skin and he repressed the natural reaction to shiver; he did not want to give or show him anything.
I cannot have you see me this way, he finally answered her. I cannot endure your crying and pity should this escalate into the unthinkable.
I won’t cry, Vegeta; give me some credit at least, she huffed. I can’t promise I won’t pity you because how could I not? But I will remain as positive and up building as I can; and on top of everything, I need you with me if I am to remain strong and think my way out of this, not only for Trunks and myself, but for all of us. As cheesy as it may sound, your strength gives me strength.
“Oh my, that is some serious bruising going on there,” Gero said in concern as he saw the black and blue bruised across his collarbone and right shoulder and along his ribs on both sides. “What did you do to him?” he asked It as he wiped Vegeta's arm with a sterile swab and injected him with a needle and attaching a large vial to it, collecting a blood sample.
Vegeta grit his teeth in suppressed anger.
“He was rather difficult to detain and required subduing.” The Android shrugged.
“I see,” Gero said nonchalantly, replacing the full vial with an empty one.
Vegeta felt himself beginning to feel light headed from blood loss as the moments passed and the doctor continued to take sample after sample. He'd lost track after about the sixth or seventh vial. While he knew the blood loss wasn't a good thing, the doctor was distracted. Maybe he could rest for just a moment.
"Hey," Gero barked at him, jabbing him roughly in the ribs the moment he finally dozed off. "You have to stay awake."
"Like hell I do!" he snarled as Gero switched out yet another full vial and exchanged it with an empty one.
“I have much I need to learn from you and you will answer my questions until I am satisfied.”
"Then I suppose it is going to be a very long night for you," Vegeta sighed, feigning boredom instead of letting him in on his exhaustion. “Because I am not telling you fuck all.”
"For you," Gero shrugged. "I have much to do and by the way, it's only early afternoon, my friend."
Vegeta spit at him, smirking as it landed on his bare hand. "Saiyans do not have friends, you old fool. Comrades maybe, but not friends and you are most definitely not a
-0-0-0-
Butterflies and Hurricanes
Chapter 18
Bulma was still observing Vegeta through the bond and the longer she observed, the more she really wished she could have heard what was going on as well, in fact she would have preferred to hear what was being said and not be able to see anything than see everything and not hear anything.
Vegeta hadn’t remained with Cold and his company for much longer when he was lead back to the lab and the small sterile room he had woken up in.
The Ice-jin that looked like Frieza pushed him into the small room, not undoing his hand cuffs and Gero said something briefly to him before shutting and presumably locking the door.
-0-0-0-
Vegeta stood there a moment, taking in his surroundings. The walls and floor were shiny white or some smooth structure he was not sure what they were made of, but they were cold and once again, he missed not having his boots and was thankful of his choice in thermal flight suit; though despite the protection to all of his major extremities, his bare hands and feet were beginning to feel numb at this point. So numb that he almost could not feel his lower legs.
After walking the small perimeter of the room and noting that there indeed was no weakness in it that he could use to his advantage at this point, so far as he could tell, he sat down and leaned against the wall; he needed to think.
His mind began to race; however he was so tired that his thoughts wandered from one thing to the next and he found himself beginning to become more and more agitated. He took a breath and sat there a moment with his eyes closed and his head against the cold wall and tried to clear his thoughts. Rest was what he needed; he needed to rest enough to at least regain his mental faculties, Gero would be returning soon.
He let down his mental wall then, reaching out to her. He was expecting her to be angry and lash out at him for blocking her when she had specifically asked him not to and he had told her that he wouldn’t and then seconds later had done just that. Instead of anger, she responded immediately to him and clung to him and embraced his presence.
How bad is it? She asked, her tone laced with concern and held no trace of resentment.
Bad.
Gero is there, isn’t he?
How do you know that? He asked.
Don’t be mad, but I was trying to get in on what was going on with you, she admitted, hoping he wouldn’t fly off the handle at her intruding. I couldn’t hear anything, I only saw what you could see and even that was somewhat limited. I saw Gero, Frieza and I am assuming King Cold was the big guy?
While he did not want her privy to what may happen, her presence within him brought him some comfort and he found himself hard pressed to reprimand her. The only reason he was not angry with her for attempting to get into his head was because if the roles were reversed, he would insist on going through it all with her.
It was still different though. She didn't have the same strength and endurance he had. He had been conditioned to handle anything and everything an adversary may throw at him. She was not and while he knew she would be angry with him, depending on how bad things got, he wouldn't subject her to it no matter how much she fought him on it. His pride would not allow it.
So can you tell me why Gero and Frieza are there? She asked.
That is not Frieza, it is an android Ice-jin made in his image, only stronger and more powerful and seemingly unbeatable; there were hundreds of them, they took us all out. He answered in a defeated tone. If it had been Frieza, I could have handled it. They killed Kakarott; one of them wrapped itself around him and self-destructed. Kakarott did not even have a chance.
I know, I heard. I’m so sorry, Vegeta, she said soothingly, her sadness for her friend’s death and for what it would put Chi-Chi through hitting her hard again.
Stupid, fool, Vegeta growled, though she could feel that he was more sad than angry. He ascended. That was why he insisted on coming with me instead of remaining with you like I had asked.
He probably just thought he could help and that if he’d ascended that he could make a difference, Vegeta.
I can appreciate that, but he did not inform me of his ascension until we had already lost. Vegeta said and she could tell he was angry now. The stupid fool! He kept it from me; instead of coming forward with it after our departure so that we could train and improve on it, he kept it to himself until all was lost. I surrendered myself and the idiot clown showed up in some heroic attempt and chose that time to reveal it.
I’m sorry, Vegeta.
It would have made no difference anyway, he scoffed.
Well, I’m still glad it’s not Frieza, but what’s Gero doing there? She asked, changing the subject, wanting to know what was happening with Vegeta. Gero’s possible involvement was what scared her the most at this point.
I don't fully know, he replied. I did not kill him when I saw him on Frieza's ship because I did not know who he was. He somehow managed to escape the ship and sought Cold out after the fact and told him what happened. Now he is in Cold's confidence.
This isn't good, Vegeta, she said. Gero is crazy. I don't even want to know what he's going to do. I vaguely remember him being very interested in Saiyan anatomy and structure. Vegeta, he is sick. Oh, god, I can't even begin to think-
Do not get yourself upset yet, he interrupted her. I still have to go to trial with Cold for my crimes against his son.
Trial? She asked. So what does that all entail?
I do not know. It is nothing more thana waste of time though. They have already decided that I am guilty. Nothing will change that verdict. I only wish they would just tell me my sentence.
No, Vegeta, she said. This may be a good thing. The longer it takes, the more time we have to figure out how to get out of this.
There is no getting out of this, Woman, he sighed. By the way, you and Trunks will be coming here apparently.
Yeah, I know. I was told that.
Has my father caused you any trouble since he saw you last or given you any indication of what his plan is?
No, she answered uneasily. He did say something about Trunks and I being sent to Cold as part of whatever deal they made but I don't know anything more than that.
And he has still not harmed you?
No,
Vegeta frowned to himself. While he was greatly relieved that his father had not committed anything against Bulma, it did not make sense. He would have assumed that he would have gone after her in some way the first chance he could. If for no other reason than because he would want to make the point that there was nothing he could do to help her.
I haven't seen him since I was thrown in here, she clarified, it was technically true. I gave him shit about betraying you.
Do not push your luck where he is concerned, he warned. Any provocation from you will set him off. If he has not done anything to you I am sure it would not take much to make him decide to go after you. I suspect the only reason you have not been harmed is because of whatever deal he has made with Cold. Perhaps you not being harmed was one of the conditions. But do not sass him.
I wasn't! She snipped defensively. I mean, I won't. I just thought he should know that what he has done to you is unforgivable and wrong and he should be ashamed of himself for betraying his son no matter how he feels about me. I told him he should be looking for a way to get you out instead of wasting his time with me.
Vegeta swallowed down the boyish hope that his father may have second thoughts about his decision and find a way to go back on his arrangement he’d made with Cold but he dismissed that thought as quickly as it came. If on the off chance his father did decide to go back on this, he knew it would cost him Bulma and Trunks. He knew that and that was not something he would be alright with; if his father suddenly suffered from a pang of conscience and wanted him back, he needed to accept Bulma and Trunks as well.
Bulma's heart sank as she caught his feelings about his father. It had been only a split second but she'd caught it and knew that she could absolutely not tell him now about his father. She buried those thoughts behind her as well as she could and hoped he would not have noticed. So what's this about a trial?
It is all bullshit, he scoffed. I am already guilty as far as Cold is concerned-
Well you did kill his son so it's not like you were framed. You are guilty.
Yes I know that! He snarled. But they have yet to determine my sentencing. I already told Cold everything and the events surrounding my actions. He does not see my killing his son for his crimes as just and therefore wants a trial to determine what he wants to do with me.
Oh, god. She sighed. I hope they don't sentence you to being a science experiment for Gero. Vegeta, there's no limit that he will not go to learn as much from you as he can!
That would not surprise me and it is apparently the plan until they begin trial. Cold has given Gero leave to do as he wishes so long as I am kept alive enough to endure a trial.
So how long until your trial? She asked, her own stomach clenching at the thought of what Vegeta may be subjected to within the next short while.
Apparently Cold wants to wait until your arrival.
My arrival? Why? She asked. What do I have to do with anything?
I do not know, he answered. Cold wishes to speak with you. Anything further, I don’t know.
But depending on when they left, it could be three weeks at most before they get here and then another three weeks before I get there, Vegeta. That’s six weeks with Gero!
There is nothing that can be done about it, Woman! He snarled, more harshly than he meant. Besides, he is a weak old fool. I am sure I have endured far worse during my time with Frieza.
Gero is crazy though, she reminded him again. He is a mad scientist, you are nothing more than a specimen, something to be studied and broken down and dissected, Vegeta; he is ruthless!
Enough! Woman, he cannot possibly throw anything at me that I cannot handle, in fact I hope he does his worst.
But Vegeta-
The more he inflicts on me, the stronger I become, remember? I will endure and I will bide my time until your arrival with the boy. Maybe then we may be able to find a way out.
Then we can leave together.
Hopefully.
We will, Vegeta, she said confidently.
Hmm, he grunted in response after several long minutes of stretched silence between them.
Are you alright? She asked in concern.
Yea, he answered quickly. I am just...
You sound like you are exhausted.
I am, he admitted. That bastard android drained me of every ounce of energy. I can barely keep my eyes open.
Well if they are leaving you alone for now, try and get some sleep, she advised. I will leave you alone.
He was quiet, so tired he almost couldn't form a coherent thought. You do not have to go, he said quietly. I will be able to rest better knowing that you are still alright.
I’m here, I won't go anywhere, she assured him. Just try to sleep. Everything with me is as okay it's going to be for the time being. I won't block you.
Hmm, he grunted and she could tell he was barely awake.
With her shoulder and arm still throbbing, Bulma closed her eyesand lay down on her side as comfortable as possible and tried to keep her thoughts quiet so as not to disturb him. Getting some rest was probably the best idea anyway.
She frowned at the king’s dead body still lying there just a few feet away from her and swallowed down a fresh wave of nausea; she sure hoped someone would come down soon if for no other reason than to remove the body and toss her some clothes. She had already given up on Brolly coming back to help her and wondered what had happened to him.
She hoped he was alright and Paragus wasn’t keeping him detained but then remembered who she was talking about. From there she began to worry about Trunks; was he still under Neesa’s care? She hoped he was alright and not in any distress or being neglected. At that thought, her stomach growled and she wondered how long it had been since she had eaten?
Her thoughts were interrupted as Paragus and two guards walked up to her. Bulma stood up, still keeping the Kings cape wrapped tightly around herself and guiltily put up a wall, blocking Vegeta. He was asleep, she reasoned and he needed to get some uninterrupted rest. Plus she did not want him to find out about his father just yet.
One of the guards tossed a pair of pants and loose fitting top to her through the bars and she grabbed it gratefully. "Where is Trunks? I want to see him." She demanded as she turned away from them and slipped into the ill-fitting clothes.
"He is fine," Paragus replied. "He is with the Prince. The maid is looking after them both."
"I still want to see him."
"And you will remain here and not make a fuss," Paragus snapped. "You hold no sway here. Until I figure out what we are doing with you, you will remain here." He said as a guard grabbed her by her upper arm and jerked her to him.
She cried out in pain, her arm and shoulders still sore from her encounter with the king. She was then shoved into an adjacent cell and the door was closed.
Bulma stood there and watched as the guards carefully wrapped the King up in his cape with the utmost care. "What are you going to do about him?" She asked.
"Nothing," Paragus sighed. "We will put him in his own bed chambers and let a maid find him."
"And then what?"
"We will orchestrate it and make it appear like a struggle happened and we will decide that it was one of the palace whores he keeps around for his amusement. We will say that one of them did it; no one would be surprised."
"And what will happen to that unfortunate girl?" She asked.
"Who cares?" Paragus shrugged. "I intend to rid the palace of all of them anyway. It is absolutely revolting for the palace to be crawling with whores to serve the king."
Bulma nodded, not disagreeing with his opinion on that. "So, what? You're just going to take the throne for yourself then? Wow how fortunate for you that things turned out this way."
"I will assume the position for the time being, yes; however I have someone else in mind to rule." Paragus said.
"And when Vegeta comes back?" She prodded.
"My dear, your precious Prince will not be returning. I admire your faith and unwavering loyalty to him however it is done," Paragus said, leaning against her cell wall and taking his attention off the soldiers trying to get the King ready to be moved. "Your only chance of seeing him again will be if Cold's men come and collect you."
"What do you mean if?"
"I personally think that it's in our best interests to have you remain here," Paragus shrugged. "I am willing to make a deal with Cold that would ensure that. I am waiting for him to contact me and we will make another deal."
"But the King made a deal with him already; you can't go back on it." She pointed out. While she did not want to go to Cold, she decided it was the better of the two scenarios. At least she would be with both Trunks and Vegeta.
"The king is dead. That means his agreement with Cold is no longer binding. So as the current leader of this planet, I am well within my right to make my own agreement with Cold."
Bulma looked at him a moment. "I don't know Cold, but from what I’ve heard, he doesn't seem like the most negotiable guy."
"He has the notorious Prince Vegeta in his custody and will still be getting your son as part of the bargain; he has no reason for complaint," Paragus shrugged. "And for good measure I will send Tarble with him. Then I will be rid of the Vegeta line all together."
"If you send Trunks away and keep me here, I will not work for you." She said plainly.
"Yes you will," he said, leaning in threateningly. "If you die then so does your precious prince."
"I'd rather die and have him die with me than stay alive knowing that he is suffering and being tortured." She said boldly, hoping he would not call her bluff. She needed to live if Vegeta was going to have a chance and she would not give up and abandon Trunks.
“We shall see,” he snorted, checking on the progress of the guards. They were about done.
“So what, I’m just going to be left down here?” she asked.
“For the time being, yes. I cannot risk you escaping.”
“Well can I at least have something to eat then?” she snorted.
“Of course!” he exclaimed in surprise. “I need you to be healthy and have all your mental faculties alert if you are to be working for us.”
She rolled her eyes. “Well in that case, can you send someone to fix my hand too?”
He frowned at her poorly bandaged hand.
“The asshole crushed it during my attempt at self-defense,” she explained. “I fixed it the best I could.”
Paragus snorted and then laughed. “What on Vegeta-sei did that fool prince see in you?” he asked between a fit of cruel laughter. “I just do not understand it; would you care to explain it to me?”
Bulma sighed in irritation. “Are you going to send someone to fix my hand or not?”
“No, I should think not.”
“But I will need it in order to do my work properly!” she objected, hoping if she put it that way, maybe he would be generous being that he did seem very interested in her working.
“You will endure, my dear,” Paragus shrugged, turning back to the soldiers who now had the king nicely wrapped up. “I will, however have a meal sent down to you.”
With no further comment, he left her standing there alone and on her own. At least she was clothed and the body of a perverted dead tyrant was no longer laying mere meters from her. She took heart in that and made herself as comfortable as possible.
She checked in on Vegeta quickly and was glad that he was still resting.
-0-0-0-
“I hate to disturb you, but I am very anxious to begin our work together.” Gero said, walking in with the Android about a half hour after his previous departure.
“Do not touch me!” Vegeta snarled as the Android yanked him up onto his feet.
“Now, before I get into the more important questions, tell me more of Bulma,” Gero demanded.
“There is nothing pertaining to her that you need to know.”
“There is a great deal I need to know,” Gero replied. “I was very excited to see the results of what kind of child you two produced; it looks like not all my hopes are lost. As she and your son will be joining us shortly. You claim to have undone everything that I had accomplished with her before?”
“Yes,” he growled.
"So I am to assume the two of you have reconciled then?" He asked with a look that made Vegeta wonder what he was really fishing for.
"Yes."
"Completely?" He asked, looking very pleased with the notion.
"Yes, completely! What are you getting at?"
"Well she should be on her way here within the week," Gero said slowly, the creepy grin on his face deepening, making Vegeta's stomach turn. "There wouldn't be a chance that she would be pregnant again, would there? If she was but you weren't aware before you left it will be apparent by the time she arrives here, approximately four weeks from now." Gero blabbered in an excited tone, mostly thinking out loud to himself.
Vegeta grit his teeth in anger. "There is absolutely no chance she is with child." He spat.
"I thought you said you two were reconciled." Gero objected.
"We are." Vegeta sneered, taking great delight in Gero's disappointment. "The woman is barren, you fool."
"What? Are you certain?" Gero asked, narrowing his eyes suspiciously at him.
"One hundred percent," Vegeta nodded. "The carrying and delivery of a Saiyan infant is no easy feat, in fact many Saiyan Women do not survive the birthing process and die as the child rips itself out of the womb if labor takes too long; it is nothing short of a miracle that Bulma survived at all. If I had not had the foresight to insist on her having the child on a technologically advanced planet that specializes only in the birthing of brats, she most certainly would have died of the complications.the process still left her severely scarred on the inside, enough that she is unable to bear a child ever again."
"You lie!" Gero snapped.
"I do not," Vegeta replied, shaking his head. Of course, it wasn't true but Gero did not have to know that. However it had been a close thing. So close that the doctors had advised him that conceiving another child with Bulma would be extremely risky and that she would have to be steadily monitored throughout the entire pregnancy, not just the final few weeks. "So you can kiss your hopes of another half-Saiyan brat to study good bye."
Gero glared at Vegeta a moment before waving his hand in dismissal. "No matter. The son you two have already produced will have to suffice, I suppose."
Vegeta growled at him.
Vegeta, is that true? Bulma's voice in his mind asked.
No, he replied, regretting not being more mindful of keeping her out of his head.
Are you sure?
Yes! He replied irritably. Why would I keep that information from you?
I don't know, she said quietly.
You are perfectly fine, he reassured her. You were given a shot when we returned to Vegeta-sei. So for the time being, you are barren until it wears off. This freak does not need to know that side of it.
“In any case, I am very excited on learning everything I can about you and your remarkable species,” Gero said, seemingly already over the possibility that Bulma was not pregnant. “I don’t even know where to start!
“During my time on Frieza’s ship, I had ample opportunity to learn much about the Saiyans; Lord Frieza had a simply incredible database on nearly every species this universe has to offer. I researched many races in my spare time but none piqued my interest as much as your race. How fortunate for me that it was the Saiyans whom Frieza had a certain fixation on, so he had nearly endless amounts of data on your kind and you specifically.
“When you had been located and Bulma was brought on board, I must say I could not have been happier! You see, originally it was supposed to be Bulma, Doctor Briefs and myself all working together with Lord Frieza but it did not work out that way, somehow she slipped through the cracks and I had assumed she would never again be found, which was why her arrival was so fortunate in not only was a great mind retrieved, but what a coincidence that it was you who found her and as a result of her capture eventually brought you to us as well. Then what with her pregnant with your offspring, oh my god, it was as if everything was meant to be!” Gero ranted, walking circles around Vegeta, taking him in and looking him over with a sick scientific fascination.
“And then you had to come along and spoil it all!” he snarled.
Vegeta smirked in glee. “Well you did not learn very much, did you? A Saiyan will never leave his mate behind. Not only that, but you should have counted yourself fortunate to have survived and taken to hiding yourself away for the remainder of your pitiful existence instead of wasting all of your time and effort in pursuit of me; mark my words, you will live to regret it.”
“Oh, I know plenty about you, my prince,” he sneered, pulling out a small tablet from his lab coat and taping it so that it expanded into a small 3D screen with Vegeta’s image on it. Next to him were statistics and paragraphs of information. “I am sure you must remember when you arrived on Frieza’s ship a Ki dampening collar was put on you. It was actually engineered by your little wife!
“You do not know this, but I made a few rather minute, but essential changes to it just prior to your arrival. I did not fully trust that she was ready to see you and that perhaps she was not pretending to have succumbed to the reprogramming I had done to her; her father did not know this, but he had thought himself so clever that he believed I did not know that he was pretending. I never remedied it because I did not want to risk diminishing his natural brilliance and I had more important matters to worry about and he still did as asked, so I saw no harm in leaving the poor fool alone.
“Anyway, what she did not know was that the entire time you wore the collar, it monitored and recorded every possible thing about you: your weight, blood pressure, external physiology, energy levels, you name it!” he gloated, clapping his hands in delight. “And while yes, she did shut it off so that your potential was no longer stifled, it still was monitoring your every move and change; that Super Saiyan transformation is the most amazing thing I have ever witnessed or come across in all my years as a scientist. I must commend you for it!”
Vegeta simply nodded in reply, not happy that this individual knew so much about him.
I had no idea, Vegeta. He heard Bulma say quietly.
“You have nothing to say?” Gero asked.
“What is there to say?”
“I would have assumed you would want to gloat and boast over abilities; they are remarkable to say the least.”
Vegeta shrugged and said nothing.
Gero glared at him a moment. "Anyway, I know I said this already but I am very looking forward to working with you and researching your race's anatomy. You being as gifted as you are, are the perfect specimen. I couldn't be happier."
"Wonderful." Vegeta deadpanned.
"Oh it will be! You and I together will accomplish great things!" Gero said, clasping his hands together before beckoning at the Android to bring escort Vegeta out of his cell and out into the lab. “We can even start now!”
The Android took hold of Vegeta’s upper arm and lead him out. “Sit,” It commanded, as they stood next to a large, metal examination chair.
“Go fuck yourself,” Vegeta snorted.
It looked questioningly at Gero, who nodded. The Android smiled and immediately, Vegeta felt his already low energy levels rapidly diminishing again. “I will make you if I have to.” It said.
Vegeta grit his teeth in anger and humiliation at being completely at their mercy. There was nothing he could do but comply at the moment. As it was, he was still exhausted and his injuries had not begun repairing themselves yet.
“I would not work against It if I were you,” Gero advised, calmly. “The collar you are currently wearing not only suppresses your ki but it prevents you from replenishing your energy supply as well.”
He glared at Gero, but took a seat nonetheless, not wanting the Android to touch him anymore.
Just do as he says, Vegeta. Bulma said to him. She understood his refusal to cooperate with him but she also knew that Gero would only hurt him for his defiance and in his current state would be very easy for him to do; not to mention Gero would gain great satisfaction from it.
Leave me alone now, he replied softly, not wanting her to be privy to whatever this man wanted to inflict on him, supposedly in the name of science.
No, Vegeta. I won’t leave you, not now.
Woman, is it not enough that I am humiliated by my own defeat and inability to have had the foresight to not only win this but keep my family safe; I get to go through whatever this deranged old fool has planned with you in my head, aware of everything as all of my weaknesses are exposed and ripped open for all to see because I am unable to defend myself! He argued in anger as he closed his eyes, and allowed Gero to un-cuff one of his wrists and fastened one forearm to one of the arms with a buckle.
“Smart decision; do not think of striking me, It will make your life a living hell if you do.” Gero chortled.
Vegeta said and did nothing but hold his breath as Gero fastened his other arm to the chair; he had been careless and unsympathetic to his injuries to his collarbone and shoulder and sitting in such a prim, proper position as he was only brought back the throbbing pain that had subsided somewhat, due to the cold. He watched the older man as he moved to the other side of his lab, grabbing a tray with several utensils on it and placing it on the counter tops beside him.
I get that, Vegeta, I do, she said quietly. She did understand it; and her heart broke for him because she understood how hard this was going to be for him. Not just physically, she knew him well enough to know that he could physically withstand just about anything Gero may decide to inflict on him; but mentally and emotionally this would be devastating to him. While she saw the bond as a blessing in which it was a means that they could communicate freely and be connected to one another, she could understand how to him it would feel like a curse right now. But you wouldn’t leave me, would you? If it was your father harassing me I know you wouldn’t even though that would be the last thing I would ever want you to be subjected to knowing, you would insist on experiencing it and going through it with me even though it would nearly kill me to have you there.
That is different.
How so, Vegeta? She challenged him.
It is My job to protect you and see you through anything you may experience whether it be good or bad; that is my role as your mate, not for you to endure and go through my troubles.
Well, from where I come from mates are supposed to support and carry each other through hard times as much as through the good times, Vegeta; maybe even more when things are bad! I may be physically unable to endure things but mentally I am strong. I cannot walk in there and bust you out on my own, but I can be there with you mentally through this bond we have and I can keep you strong that way. Do not shut me out! I don’t care how bad it is, let me be there for you as you would be for me.
“Now, first things first,” Gero mumbled, walking up to Vegeta with a pair of scissors. Vegeta watched him warily as he randomly grabbed a long, spiked chunk of his hair and cut it off close to the scalp.
“Hey! That will not grow back!” he snarled in outrage, watching Gero place the large chunk of his hair into a sterile container and labeling it.
“I only took one of the spikes on the back off, no one will notice,” Gero sighed. “Wait, what do you mean it will not grow back?” he asked in interest, turning to look at him.
Vegeta cringed, realizing he had just voluntarily given him more information about him, even though it was more trivial than anything; however any piece of information that furthered the progress of his “research” was not good in his point of view. “It means that it will not grow back.” he deadpanned.
“Hmm,” Gero grunted, turning back to his newest specimen and writing a few notes on the lid. “Interesting; is that the reason for the receding hairline at such a young age? You are only twenty-two if my statistics about you are correct. Is it common for Saiyans to experience hair loss at a young age?”
“It is not hair loss!” he growled. “I was born with my hairline, you insipid fool! If you knew anything at all, you would know that my hairline is the mark of royalty. Over twenty generations of kings before me had the mark of the royalty!”
“I see, once again, there is that arrogance I have heard so much about.” Gero nodded, adding more notes to his collection of data.
A moment later he forced Vegeta’s mouth open to take a throat swab; he tried to look into his mouth and examine his teeth, but Vegeta did not cooperate with him. “I will perform a full examination on you one way or another, you know.” Gero said, coming up to him once again with a pair of scissors and began cutting off his fight suit. First at the collar around the neck, down to his chest and then began cutting the sleeves up the length of his arm so that they lay open.
The coolness of the room attacked his exposed skin and he repressed the natural reaction to shiver; he did not want to give or show him anything.
I cannot have you see me this way, he finally answered her. I cannot endure your crying and pity should this escalate into the unthinkable.
I won’t cry, Vegeta; give me some credit at least, she huffed. I can’t promise I won’t pity you because how could I not? But I will remain as positive and up building as I can; and on top of everything, I need you with me if I am to remain strong and think my way out of this, not only for Trunks and myself, but for all of us. As cheesy as it may sound, your strength gives me strength.
“Oh my, that is some serious bruising going on there,” Gero said in concern as he saw the black and blue bruised across his collarbone and right shoulder and along his ribs on both sides. “What did you do to him?” he asked It as he wiped Vegeta's arm with a sterile swab and injected him with a needle and attaching a large vial to it, collecting a blood sample.
Vegeta grit his teeth in suppressed anger.
“He was rather difficult to detain and required subduing.” The Android shrugged.
“I see,” Gero said nonchalantly, replacing the full vial with an empty one.
Vegeta felt himself beginning to feel light headed from blood loss as the moments passed and the doctor continued to take sample after sample. He'd lost track after about the sixth or seventh vial. While he knew the blood loss wasn't a good thing, the doctor was distracted. Maybe he could rest for just a moment.
"Hey," Gero barked at him, jabbing him roughly in the ribs the moment he finally dozed off. "You have to stay awake."
"Like hell I do!" he snarled as Gero switched out yet another full vial and exchanged it with an empty one.
“I have much I need to learn from you and you will answer my questions until I am satisfied.”
"Then I suppose it is going to be a very long night for you," Vegeta sighed, feigning boredom instead of letting him in on his exhaustion. “Because I am not telling you fuck all.”
"For you," Gero shrugged. "I have much to do and by the way, it's only early afternoon, my friend."
Vegeta spit at him, smirking as it landed on his bare hand. "Saiyans do not have friends, you old fool. Comrades maybe, but not friends and you are most definitely not a
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