Dragon Ball/Z/GT Fan Fiction ❯ In'lar-Anth - Through Darkest Destiny ❯ Close Encounters ( Chapter 2 )

In'lar-anth - Through Darkest Destiny

Authors: Rogue & DarkSerapha

Email: rogue_raven_13@yahoo.com & Mononokehime@gmx.net

Archive: Yes, but ask first

Rating: Strict NC-17. You kids have been warned.

This is YAOI! Male x male intimacy (oh boy is there going to be intimacy...). To put it plain: Lots of hot monkey sex. If you don't like it, go away and flame your own behind!

Overall warnings (appropriate warnings will be given at beginning of chapter if necessary):

A/U, OOC, lemon, lime, rape, angst, violence, NCS, cussing, gore, blood, dark, death, SM, angst, epic, fluff, sap, angst, spoilers

Warnings for this chapter:

Violence. Cussing. Showering saiyan princes.

Pairing: G x V, V x G

Disclaimer: We solemnly swear we are up to no good! Therefore we own neither Dragonball Z nor all the songs used in here or else the world would be a far darke... angsti... eh… better place. No money is being made with this. Damn.

'…' = thoughts

Intro

"Drive"

Sometimes I feel the fear of uncertainty stinging clear
And I cant help but ask myself how much I'll let the fear take the wheel and steer
It's driven me before, it seems to have a vague
Haunting mass appeal
Lately I'm beginning to find that I should be the one behind the wheel
Whatever tomorrow brings, I'll be there
With open arms and open eyes, yeah
Whatever tomorrow brings, I'll be there, I'll be there
So if I decide to waiver my chance to be one of the hive
Will I choose water over wine and hold my own and drive, oh oh
It's driven me before, it seems to be the way
That everyone else get around
Lately, I'm beginning to find that when I drive myself, my light is found
Whatever tomorrow brings, I'll be there
With open arms and open eyes yeah
Whatever tomorrow brings, I'll be there, I'll be there
Would you choose water over wine
Hold the wheel and drive
Whatever tomorrow brings, I'll be there
With open arms and open eyes yeah
Whatever tomorrow brings, I'll be there, I'll be there

("Drive" by Incubus)

In'lar-anth - Through Darkest Destiny

Chapter 2: Close Encounters

Son Goku

The door hissed shut behind me and I froze in my tracks.

Radditz!

I should have known he was here!

What was I to do now? Gulping slightly I raised my head and looked at the other person inhabiting this room. He had turned around at Vegeta's words and was now staring at me. I didn't know what else to do so I stared back.

Radditz

Having just returned from a light training spar against Nappa I was about to get ready for the night when the door opened suddenly. I was surprised since only very few persons beside myself and my prince had access to this chambers. I heard Vegeta's words and turned around, preparing to bow down respectfully. But when I saw what stumbled into the room I suddenly lost all ability to speak. Vegeta smirked and left the room not waiting for me to recover.

I could only look wide-eyed. If It wouldn't have been so pathetic I might have rubbed my eyes.

That man looked exactly like my father! I had seen quite a few men who looked a bit like him, and I had heard that my half-uncle Tales did resemble him very remarkably, but this... this was scary somehow. Finally I found my lost voice again.

"Who the hell are you? And what are you doing in my rooms?"

Son Goku

He stared at me as if I was a ghost or something. I knew that he couldn't recognize me as we had not met yet in this time and yet I swore that there was something in his eyes...

I just hoped he wouldn't figure out who I was... but then again he had never been the brightest bulb, as far as I could tell, and how could he possibly figure out that I was his younger brother, sent off to earth many years ago and never been heard of again...?

Suddenly I wondered if my father was still alive... how I wished I could see him...

I was torn from my daydream at his harsh question. Instinctively I smiled in my usual way and put a hand behind my head, scratching nervously.

"I.. ummm.. I am Son Goku. Hi!"

Radditz

When he answered my question I was at last convinced that he was no figment of my imagination. I had not seen my father for more than a year.

"Son Goku..? What an unusual name." I studied him. He was a Saiyajin, no doubt but that name...

"And what are you doing here?"

Son Goku

I stepped inside the room and looked around. It was plain and simple. There were two uncomfortable looking fold out beds, a wardrobe and a small cleaning facility. And that was it. Vegeta wasn't kidding about the cell.

"Well... I guess I'm supposed to stay here. I have been assigned Vegeta's new bodyguard."

Radditz

I didn't trust my own ears! The prince's bodyguard? What the... he had always been VERY adamant about not needing one! That was the reason why I had been chosen by… nervermind, to stay at his side whenever possible.

"What could possibly make Prince Vegeta choose someone, and more so, someone like *you* as his bodyguard and why now of all times?" I looked him up and down. Okay, beside the scary resemblance to my father he did look like a capable warrior. Maybe even pretty good looking but I couldn't quite judge that since that resemblance freaked me out way too much. His body, his hair... only his face was slightly different. There was no scar for one and his eyes were larger and his facial traits softer somehow. I tilted my head. He had something odd about him.

Son Goku

"I don't know." I answered honestly. I really had no clue why Vegeta had chosen a bodyguard of all things. Radditz did not look very convinced. I could not help but stare at him. It had been such a long time since I had seen him last and our encounter had been less than pleasing. Bluntly, it was not something you liked to remember when you killed your brother, and yourself, in the process. I had always felt kind of guilty about this. He had threatened my son and the planet but still - he was my brother. My brother. I had never expected to see him again while still living but here he was. I wondered if he was as self-righteous, arrogant and cruel as he had seemed to me back then. Or more... as he would seem to me in the future. Gosh, this sure was confusing.

Radditz

The newcomer stared at me oddly. He had a expression on his face that I could not decipher. Almost… sad?

And curious. It made me feel uneasy. I wondered if he was keeping something from me. I would have to ask the prince in the morning. Maybe he would tell me what this was all about.

But there was something that I found even more interesting.

"I wonder why you look like a carbon copy of my father."

Son Goku

Gulping audibly I tried to grin and cover my shock. I didn't remember my father but it seemed I looked very alike him. Damn. I should have known destiny had another ace in it's back hand...

"Um. I have no idea? Who is your father?"

Radditz

Narrowing my eyes I studied him some more. When he grinned like that the resemblance was less remarkable as I could not recall seeing my father with an expression like that.

"My father is Bardock of the house of Bardock. You said your name was Son Goku? I've never heard such a strange saiyan name before. What house do you belong to?"

Son Goku

I was thinking frantically but could not find a good answer. I remembered the story I had tried with Vegeta. Maybe it would work here...

"I don't know that either. I lost my memory in an accident. I have no idea who I was before I was assigned Vegeta's bodyguard." I glanced at him hopefully, trying to see if he bought the lie. His face darkened some more as he pondered my answer.

Radditz

Amnesia..? Well that would at least explain a few things. He did seem strong, if not very bright, and if he did not remember anything he might be easy to manipulate. Maybe that was why Vegeta had chosen him. If treated right the prince could tie this man to him and make him his most loyal subject. Vegeta had always been the most cunning Saiyajin I knew. But still… I could not help but feel a pang of jealousy. I had guarded the princes back since he had been taken by Frieza, I had done my very best to stand at his side always and never faltered in my loyalty. Still I was not much more to him but another saiyan warrior.

He did probably open up more to me than to anyone else since we spent so much time together, but he had never acknowledged me in any way. I wondered if he had ever been told just *why* I was doing this...

And now he had chosen this... this odd Saiyajin with an odd name and no past and made this retard his bodyguard! I just could not understand it!

"I'm not sure that I should believe you. Something is wrong about you. I can almost smell it!" I growled.

"Such an odd coincidence that suddenly you turn up when I've never heard of you before and you are assigned bodyguard to the prince of all people and you look so much like my father. Very strange. I want to know what you are hiding! Who are you really?" I demanded to know.

Son Goku

Having no idea what to say to that I cursed inwardly at my own stupidity and lack of acting qualities.

"Sorry... but all I can tell you I've already said. I am what I said. I am Son Goku. I don't know why I look like your father. Why don't you ask him yourself?" That last sentence was a bit of an arrow into the mist. I had no idea if my father was still alive or how Radditz would respond to this.

Radditz

I growled more loudly at his last sentence. Somehow I did not like where this was going. There had been... rumours about my father and I tended to react very fierce when he was concerned. What was he trying to say?

"Are you implying that my father did something dishonourable?" I narrowed my eyes some more, glaring at him.

"You look too much like him for a mere coincidence. Are you trying to tell me that he has sired more children than just my brother and I?" I hissed dangerously. My tail uncoiled from my waist and puffed out twice its size as I gnarled at him showing sharp canines.

Son Goku

I was taken aback at his hostile reaction. It figured taking our last encounter into account. But despite the fact that I was way stronger than him now I could not afford to have him on my wrong side. I held up both hands in a gesture of peace.

"Uh hey, I didn't say anything like that! Calm down! I really don't know anything about that so peace, okay?"

Radditz

I threw one last acid gaze at him and then turned, my tail settling briskly around my waist again.

"I do hope so! It's impossible too. How old are you? You must be older than me. Mother was father's first mate and I'm his oldest son. So it's impossible anyway."

Son Goku

"Well he could have cheated on your mother, couldn't he?" I replied without thinking. Oh shit. I clamped a hand over my mouth, staring at my brothers back. He tensed visibly.

Bakabakabaka!

Why can't you think *one* fucking time before speaking??? Now I'd done it, that was sure.

I had insulted his - my own!- father in the worst way! He was bound to blow up on that!

Radditz

Shaking my head I couldn't help but snicker slightly at the old joke. It seemed he tried to relief the tenseness. Oh well. I did not like this situation and there was something very fishy but it seemed he was no immediate threat. I would simply have to watch him closely. Nothing new here.

"Good one, Son Goku. They were bonded Irku'hanah. She would have ripped out his heart the very instant he'd tried it... not that he ever would have tried it. They were very close for only second level. It was a terrible blow for him when she died..." I trailed off wondering why the hell I was telling my families story to this complete stranger, who in addition was a moron and a possible threat all together.

Odd. He had something about him that made me relax without even wanting to. Just what it was I could not decipher.

Son Goku

Having absolutely no idea what he was talking about I simply filed it away for possible later investigation. But that last part made me hesitate.

"Your mother...is dead?" I asked slowly. I had been thinking about my father, but seldom of my mother, I realized. I wondered what she had been like. I would have liked to know her... but since I had not I only felt a pang of sadness on a loss I had never really endured. I had been too small when I had been sent away. I could not recall her, but still...

Radditz

"Not that it is any of your concern, but yes. She died not long after my younger brother was sent off on his first purge and never returned. It was grief. Ate her soul. She always had a soft spot for the little one... Damn Frieza! Sending babies off planet!" I hissed through gritted teeth, then hesitated. I should be very careful what I said to this Son Goku. Vegeta had told me a thousand times to hold my tongue if not absolutely sure about my company. This man could as well be a spy. Damn my quick tongue. I hrmphed and threw myself on the bed.

"Enough for today! I don't know about you but I am supposed to be up early tomorrow. Do whatever you want but do it without sound!" Gruffly I turned away from the strange Saiyajin and covered myself with my blanket, closing my eyes.

Son Goku

For a long time I just stood and stared at his back until his breathing started to get regular and quiet and I realized my brother had fallen asleep. I took off the armour and sat down on the other bed. I laid back down, staring at the metal ceiling.

My mother.

She had died... because of me? I had never known... grief, he said. Somehow it made me incredibly sad. I had never even once thought about what my disappearance had meant for my true family. Never.

I tossed and turned a lot that night, my dreams filled with nightmares and guilt and a strange female Saiyajin with sad black eyes...

Vegeta

I woke with the dawn...well...I would have if there were any dawn. As it was I was up, as usual, before most of the other denizens of this hell hole. My rooms were larger and less sparse than the others on this level but still lacked the comfort due a prince of a warrior race. It had taken a long time just to gain what I had now and I had been away from it for what had to be about a year. Everything was just as I remembered leaving it. Empty and stale. Hmph.

I stared up at the ceiling of my cell, thinking over the past day. I didn't like this one bit. Something was in the air. Frieza had not been at all as angry at me yesterday as he normally would have been. I should have been punished for such careless insubordinate behaviour whether it was my fault or not. And this strange Saiyajin showing up...and the strange way he acted. He spoke strangely. He acted strangely. He...

And what the hell was I thinking bringing him aboard? If he had a bone to pick with Frieza then all he would possibly bring me was trouble.

"Bah!" I pushed it away. I did not wish to figure it out right now. Perhaps I would get a chance to test that...Son Goku this morning in the training arena. Swinging my legs off the bed I proceeded to suit up in my usual uniform and hard armour with the blood coloured seal of Vegeta-sei emblazoned on the breast. Gathering my cloak from the bedpost where I had thrown it last night, I settled it on my shoulders and then made my way to the room across the corridor, punching in the code to open the door. I stepped in to see both men still in their small beds. Radditz heard the door slide open and immediately threw off the blanket, leaping to attention. It had been a long while since I had been on the battle ship to call on him at such an early hour. He had grown lax in his schedule. He cleared his throat in embarrassment for being caught still asleep. I was always an early riser.

"My prince." He bowed his head respectfully. I glared at the other cot. The figure on it didn't budge. Great. Just great. Fucking lazy, worthless excuse for a brain-damaged...

Radditz glanced over at the still form and a very low growl sounded from him. To my partial acceptance, he did the honour of snapping the sleeping figure right off the bed and onto the floor.

"Kisama! Prince Vegeta is here!" He hissed at him.

Son Goku

I awoke with a start as I felt someone approach me, instincts kicking in, but it was too late. I was shoved to the floor roughly. After having disentangled myself from the sheets I blinked drowsily, noticing Radditz standing over me with murder in his eyes and Vegeta leaning relaxed to the wall at the door looking very smug.

I yawned.

Vegeta... was he here for another early morning spar? Hmm... that bed didn't look familiar...

Wait a moment!

Radditz?!?!

Suddenly it all came back to me.

I sighed deeply. Somehow I had wished it would al turn out a bad dream... It seemed I was not that lucky.

"Morning 'Geta..." I mumbled, still hazy from a night with very disturbed sleep. I felt stiff and not very well recovered. I did not remember my dreams and that was probably for the better.

Vegeta

At least one of them knew how to be respectful. Perhaps it would rub off on the other before I was pushed to the limit and had to kill him. His mumbled reply to Radditz rough treatment made me stiffen and I glared dangerously.

"What did you call me?" I simmered.

Radditz

I stood speechless. I just could not believe what I saw and heard. Not only had this... this imbecile the audacity to ignore the presence of our prince but he also dared to speak such casual words to him!

Was he brain-damaged?

Or did he have a death wish?

I almost shook very slightly out of pure shock and rage. True, I had been slacking too - normally I would have been up and about at this time, ready to accompany the prince to his morning spar if he wished me to... but this! I could not even find words to describe what I felt this very moment!

Son Goku

I got up slowly, completely ignoring Radditz murderous glares.

"Hm? What did I call you, 'Geta?" I shook my head and then remembered how much the prince used to dislike this little pet-name though he had tolerated it occasionally... but that had been before he retreated and shut himself off completely.

Finally I stood and faced them both, not quite understanding what all the ruckus was about.

Vegeta

I snarled lowly not sparing Radditz a glance. I knew him well enough and he knew me to not dare take such an example but this imbecile seemed determined to make a fool of me! I would put a stop to it now!

"You will refer to me as *prince* Vegeta!" I stated in a barely restrained voice.

Son Goku

Scratching my head I answered in a casual voice:

"Okay… " then turned and padded barefoot to the small cleaning facility. It was in a very small extra room to the side of the bedroom. Three minutes later I returned, a bit more awake. Putting on the armour and the combat boots I yawned again and then turned too look at the gawking Radditz and Vegeta.

"What?" When I got no answer I shrugged yet again and proceeded to walk out of the door.

Now.. where would they hide that on this ship...

Vegeta

That was *not* a satisfactory response. Damn him! He was tiring my patience and it had been less than five minutes already! How was I going to deal with him? Radditz was beside himself.

There was absolutely no way that I would let this pass. It didn't matter that there was a witness. My own pride demanded that I put a stop to this behaviour at once!

He completely ignored the both of us and brushed past me obliviously. What the hell was wrong with him?! He *was* a moron! Dissent by my own race. It was shameful!

"Where do you think you are going??!!" I snapped.

Son Goku

I turned my head to look back at Vegeta puzzled.

"Umm... breakfast. Why? Surely you people have to eat at some time, don't you?" I answered, unconsciously rubbing my stomach. It growled loudly and reminded me that I had not eaten much longer than I was usually used to. It was strange that I had been able to go on so long without any nourishment!

Radditz

I finally caught myself from the shock. Gnarling dangerously I stepped forward and put a heavy hand on Son Goku's shoulder.

"How dare you talk to the prince like that! This is unheard of! You have to show respect and await his orders, *especially* if you are his bodyguard as you claim to be! I should kill you where you stand for such a shameful behaviour!"

Vegeta

I straightened, in control once more, my face locked in a scowl with one eyebrow raised high in disbelief. I did not need anyone to handle my affairs. I could deal with this myself and I would.

"Radditz, stand aside." My voice was even when I addressed him but when I turned my attention back to the other it barked gruffly with command.

"Son!! You will come with me. Now!!" I brooked no argument. He *would* come and I *would* deal with him!

Son Goku

"Eh...? " I sighed. I slipped my shoulder out of Radditz' grip. He just stared at me like he had never seen me before. He probably wondered what the hell I was. When it came to food I normally did NOT make any compromises. But something made me hesitate. I was ready to stand up to Vegeta but then I remembered my vow, and, more important, the fact that I had to try and stay out of trouble as much as possible. I clenched my fists.

DARN! Did they want me to starve to death here?

"At least you could grant me some dry bread... really, how is a man supposed to stay strong and healthy without a good breakfast?" I mumbled under my breath. What had I gotten myself into? The destruction of a planet or the future was one thing, but no breakfast? That was just a plain monstrosity. Nevertheless I tapered along and followed the prince. I really had no other choice.

Vegeta

The baka finally conceded though I could see he was still unwilling. I could not accept these actions. I would not allow my control to be lost because some idiot wanted to test me. It had to stop! I spun on my heel and stalked away considering my options. The first one that came to mind was to just kill him and be done with this. He was not worth me having to put up with this.

Radditz

I stared after them as they rounded one corner and disappeared. Shaking my head I stepped back into my room.

Strange! I would have thought that Vegeta would kill that moron the very instant but instead he had restrained himself. Odd. He was not very well known for his patience.

I wondered if there was more to Son Goku than met the eye. I was more than just a bit aggravated that apparently our prince had chosen his new damn bodyguard to spar with him this morning. That gave me a bit more time but it didn't make me happy at all. Jealousy? Me? Not at all!

I growled and slammed the door shut.

Son Goku

I did not think too much as we strode along. It was still too early in the morning. I had no idea how late it was since the artificial light gave nothing away but it had to be pretty early for me to be so tired. I was a bit of an early bird at home but the last day had been very stressing.

Idly I was wondering where we were going. I still had my hopes on breakfast but Vegeta didn't seem too keen on food at the moment...

"Ge... uh... prince Vegeta? Where are we going...?"

Vegeta

I gritted my teeth as he grumbled behind me. He would have to learn his place. We stepped around a corner in the winding hallway and I looked up and down the endless corridors. Seeing no one I made up my mind. I whirled around and took the ingrate by his collar and slammed him against the wall hard.

"What do you think you are doing?!!" I snarled, staring him in the eyes.

Son Goku

Suddenly I found myself against the wall and a snarling Vegeta at my throat. Normally he would not have been able to get me that easily but he surprised me again. I started to get the feeling that I was better off keeping my battle instincts up and about all the time in this strange place. Almost instinctively I used a tiny bit of my true strength to get him a tad bit away. The closeness was… intimidating. Had he never heard of personal space?

I looked at him wide eyed. What? Did I do something wrong?

"Eh...?" I was absolutely clueless.

Vegeta

"If you *ever* disgrace me in front of another again I will not even waste my energy on you!! I will merely throw you out the nearest airlock!! You are here only on my whim!! Nothing else!! I will not accept you challenging my authority!! Not here!! If you truly wish to challenge me then I will gladly face you as a warrior and kill you with honour." I conceded the last remark as one kinsman to another. I would not have given such consideration if he had been anything other than a Saiyajin even though he was proving himself to be a fool despite it.

Son Goku

Slowly I started to understand. He was not used to my behaviour and had taken it as a personal affront. I looked at him and felt my anger rise.

He was doing it again! He had always managed to infuriate me with that act... a part of me recognized that my Vegeta was doing it for that purpose only, but that this Vegeta was doing it because it was natural to him. But still...

I growled and stared at him. Then I ducked and moved fast as lightning out of his grip, stepping aside him.

"I do not wish to challenge you... ouji. I'm only hungry, that's all there is to it." I said in my usual cheerful manner. The mask of that stupid grin was familiar to me and it's use came naturally. I was surprised at myself. The past seemed to have some affect on me... I normally wasn't that bad tempered but then I did not have to deal with such odd circumstances normally too. I had been through some strange things, but this really topped it all.

Vegeta

Still he was defiant! He even pushed me back slightly though it seemed odd but I ignored it, glaring stubbornly. Suddenly he was gone from my grip, his warmth fading slowly from my hands.

"Shit!" I stared at the wall. Then I turned and glared at the uncanny asshole. I seethed. The hairs on the back of my neck stood on end with sudden wariness.

'What have I gotten myself into if he can slip from my grip so easily? And now he is acting so fucking cheerful again! Is the idiot playing with me?'

Son Goku

I sighed. How I wished everything would be normal...

I wished I would be home, waking up early in the morning...

Having my usual breakfast, then go for my morning warm up...

Later on visit Gohan or Goten, who have their own families... it had been some time since ChiChi died, after all...

Then go spar with Vegeta...

Vegeta

I replied evenly not giving any sign of my thoughts. Only showing my self-assurance.

"I don't care what condition your stomach is in. You swore an oath. If your word is worth anything than you will stop these foolish actions. I don't give a damn what happens to you or what you want here but I will *not* let you get me killed!!!" I would not be sabotaged after so many years of painstaking efforts.

Son Goku

No breakfast right now, then...

I sighed and settled for the next best thing... a spar was just what I needed now... after a good breakfast that was. But he didn't seem like he would allow any of it. Oh well. I was here for a purpose. As soon as I had a chance I had to think up a plan to get away and back to my time. And I had sworn an oath though I was fully intend to break it when it was really necessary. I would have no stupid oath hinder me in protecting what I held dear.

Umm....

Where did that come from?

I did the first thing my mind jumped on.

"Sorry. I must still be confused because of my head injuries. It will not happen again." I bowed my head before him again. This was quickly getting an annoying custom...

Vegeta

I stared at his sudden shift.

Fuck!

He *was* playing with me! Damn him!

I was fast learning that my control over him was slim and shaky. He held no regard for status. He held no loyalties that I had truly seen so far. I only took a slight note that he changed his tactics when I brought up his oath.

'I am not a fool!' I assumed that neither was he...unless he was just insane. That was a possibility. A definite possibility but I would assume he was not for the time being. I could not afford this.

I tried to think quickly. Surely he was not as stupid as he let on. Damn it.

Why had I even given in to this in the first place? I looked at him closely. He just stood there waiting to see what I would do. I took a deep silent breath.

Maybe...I had already compromised once...perhaps I could gain more with yet another. He did not respond well to orders it seemed.

Yet again, wondering what had come over me I decided to compromise. I spoke in a level tone.

"Frieza only looks well on strength. What will he think when word gets to him that I cannot control my own bodyguard? How will that look? I don't know why I chose to let you come but I will not deal with this!! I will not have you endangering me or my place here!! I swear that if you fuck me over here I will drag you down with me!!" The last was not an idle threat.

Son Goku

Those words did make sense to me. I had a strong feeling that the last thing we could use now was the attention of the Ice-jin. Both because I did not need any additional trouble and because Vegeta did not seem too happy whenever Frieza was mentioned. I nodded slowly.

"Yes, prince Vegeta. I apologize. I will try to behave better." I said, though I had to spit each single word out. But he was right. I had always admitted when he was right.

I had to get away from here, from this ship, this time, and especially from *him*! It was driving me nuts! He was reminding me so much of his older self and yet... no. Better not think about it.

Better not.

Vegeta

I glared at him for a few moments. He certainly gave in easily to that, if grudgingly. Yes. He was smarter than he showed. At least I had learned something. Whatever his motives were, he could be reasoned with given the right amount of effort.

Then the sound of footsteps came from down the corridor. Turning I began walking down the hallway again.

"Come." I still did not think that this was finished satisfactorily but I did not need an audience. I would have to keep a strong grip on him. But since I was scheduled on a purging later today at least I would not be on this ship with him.

It would be easier to settle this matter away from prying ears and eyes. I forced myself to keep from looking back at him as we walked. What was it about him that put me so off guard?

Son Goku

I could tell that this was not settled but followed him nevertheless. I still had no idea where we were going. As I followed Vegeta along I mused about my situation. I was stuck on Frieza's damn main ship with no idea of how to return to my own time, only happy to be off a planet that was scheduled to be blown up at some time in the not too faraway future.

This thought troubled me more than was good for me.

My whole being screamed that I should save Vegeta-sei from it's dark destiny.

I certainly had the means to do so. But I could not, of course. As much as I wished I could. Damn my natural protectiveness!

It would alter the future inevitably.

I had learned astounding things about the Saiyajin so far, even from the scarce contacts I had had. They were fierce and probably occasionally cruel, that was un-denied, but... otherwise as far as I could tell they probably were just people who tried to get along. People who certainly did not deserve to be blown up. Or did they...?

As far as I could tell... and I had to think of my mother at this point - beside the fact that they were purging planets in the name of Frieza - and I still asked myself how he made them do it - there was a population down there with women and children who certainly were not the cold-blooded murderers I had assumed them to be all my life.

Could I really turn my back on them?

I had to…

I decided that if I proceeded carefully I might get some information out of Vegeta. This had really left me curious and it would be a shame to waste the opportunity to learn more about my heritage.

"Prince Vegeta… why are we fighting for Frieza anyway?" I asked, deciding that going along with the brain-damaged-clueless part was probably for the best here.

Vegeta

"What?" I turned my head slightly but did not look back at him. His question sounded so strange. What did he mean why?

He should know...shouldn't he? Every Saiyajin knew. That led me back to the questions I still had not had answered. Where had he come from and what language was he speaking before? Why was he an unknown and where had he gotten such a strange and un-saiyan name?

"Hn. I would almost be inclined to say you are not a Saiyajin, Son Goku." I said evenly, accentuating the strange name.

"Why do you think the Saiyajin purge planets and fuel battle brigades and armies? What is your opinion? We all have our own, I'm sure, and you have a strange way of viewing things. I can already tell that and I've only dealt with you for less than a few hours since you burdened yourself onto me."

Son Goku

This half answer, half question surprised me. For a moment I could not help but wonder how the Vegeta I knew would have reacted. He probably would have ignored the question wholly - thinking I was too dumb anyways to understand it. Or he would have gotten angry at me for asking such stupid things. But most certainly he would never have asked me for my opinion…

This left me with a situation I had seldom faced before: I felt the need to really think about my answer. And so I did, walking slowly, taking my time. He had asked me seriously and I intended on giving him a serious answer.

"This is a tough question. As you said, we all have our own opinions and therefore I assume that many of us have different reasons too. Some might do it because of the thrill. Some might do it because they are power-hungry. Some might like to serve. There are always some who are attracted by the powerful - whoever they are. But... most of them probably just want to live their lives, and run along. Most of them might not even want to do this - or at least not this way. I do not doubt that the Saiyaj... I mean that our kind loves the battle and that we are tempted to work for Frieza as long as he provides it. But I think we also like our freedom. Personally I am not very fond of being restrained and ordered around." I hesitated slightly. This was probably getting too personal.

"Maybe I should rephrase my question. Why do you work for Frieza?"

Vegeta

I continued to walk ahead of him, waiting until he managed to get to the point. Yes, yes, I was quickly getting bored. Battle. Glory. Honour. Power. Blood. ...Fun. There were many reasons to fight.

There it was. The question I knew was within the first one.

But... Why? What did he care? Why should he want to know *my* motives or whether I had any or not? What made him think I would answer?

"What business is that of yours?"

Son Goku

I was more than a bit disappointed that he didn't even acknowledge my answer after I had thought so hard about it. Typically Vegeta. Baka Goku's too dumb to give an answer worthy of notice.

"Call it curiosity. Or maybe I just want to... know the one I have to guard better. Whatever you want." I growled.

Vegeta

Now I finally acknowledged him looking over my shoulder to eye him wryly. I smirked, almost amused.

"Falling into your role already? I'll wait until I see it for myself." The corners of my mouth tilted up and I raised an eyebrow.

"Maybe I just like the smell of blood." I said. I did not know what information he wanted or why. I was not about to confide in him though. I was not some cadet fresh from the surface. I had no reason to tell him anything. Slowly I turned back and led on toward the more central part of the ship. We entered the common training arena and I looked around suspiciously. There was no one around this early as usual. That is what I wanted. I liked to get my warm up over with before the rest of the ship stirred to impede my schedule. It was a good habit to be wide awake, alert, and settled before anyone else. It meant that you were prepared for anything that you might have to face later. I chose a section of the training grounds and turned back to the man who was seeking to cause me so much trouble.

Son Goku

'The smell of blood.'

Somehow that took me aback and I realized that this was Vegeta, a Vegeta who had not settled down on earth and grown accustomed to ningen softness over the years. This one was young and arrogant and blood lusty. Just like when I met him.

Or... was he?

Somehow I had the feeling that he was hiding something from me. Was not telling me the truth. And somehow he managed to peak my curiosity even more. There was a puzzle here waiting to be discovered...

When we arrived at our destination I looked around curiously. This seemed like some sort of training facility. My smile blossomed suddenly and I nearly laughed in joy.

Oh boy! So Vegeta was up for a spar after all! If I couldn't get food, this was the next best thing!

Vegeta

Here I would set my boundaries and see how he responded to them.

"Alright. This is my schedule. I train at daybreak. Then I wash and eat. Then I deal with whatever duties demand my attention. After that I return to my training. You will keep my schedule. You will accompany me unless I tell you otherwise. *And* you will act like a fucking bodyguard!!! Whatever the hell else you have in mind here will revolve *around* this. I do not give a damn if you get yourself killed as long as you leave me out of it."

'And if you do not get yourself killed then all the better.' That thought sounded strange. Something about him just made me think too much. I just hoped that he would not draw undue attention to either of us.

"Know this. Whatever you do reflects upon me. You will act that way. Is that acceptable to you?" I sneered challengingly at the end.

Son Goku

"Yah, sure, fine with me." I shrugged and smiled. That didn't sound very different from our schedule at home. We were usually up for training or a spar in the woods in early morning, then have breakfast. Them some more training and then I visited my children or grandchildren or did what had to be done around the house. The rest of the day was usually training or sparring too. No surprise here. What made me think was that he kept emphasizing about my behaviour reflecting on him. It almost sounded as if he was afraid of something.

"Is there anything I should be aware of? It seems that you are pretty concerned about right behaviour... Surely no one would mind if I did not know how to act right once or twice, ne?"

Vegeta

I hardened and all expression left my features.

"What do you think this is? A pleasure cruise? What was that you said about losing everything you held dear yesterday? Do you have nothing to lose now? You have your life. It should be precious enough for you to keep yourself in check."

Did he know nothing of war or soldiers?

"If you wish to test it's value, do it away from me. I have already settled my place here. You will have to as well."

Son Goku

Personally I thought that Vegeta was probably taking all of this way to serious as always.

But then again - he did have a point. I knew nothing about this place and was probably well off with listening to what he said closely. Still, I had always had faith in my own strength. If something happened I would simply change and…

Oh.

I could not change.

If I revealed who I really was that would alter the time-line for sure. Therefore I must under all circumstances stay at my current level. This bound me as perfectly as any ki-restraint could have.

I cursed silently for not having taken that into account earlier. I should have been much more careful.

My whole life I had relied on my strength. Now I could not use it while still possessing it for the first time. This might get troublesome...

I sighed and pried my thoughts off and back to the situation at hand.

"Fine. Why are we here? Are we going to spar?"

Vegeta

I glared for another moment but the idiot was not arguing.

"If you are worthy." I answered nodding.

"I still need to see your abilities. I must know if I can depend upon you to protect my life *as well* as endanger it!" I took up a combative stance, extending one hand in invitation, smirking in anticipation.

"Come. Attack me."

Son Goku

Grinning widely I fell effortlessly into my usual fighting-stance. Finally! I had been waiting for this! I really needed to get off some steam!

But then I hesitated. I was not sure just how strong he was... I had to be very careful to not let him know just what I was capable of.

For a moment I couldn't help but think of the last time I had fought him and the disastrous outturn of that fight.

'I never want to see you loathsome face again'

But then I shrugged it off. Another time, another fight. I powered down as low as I could, just in case, and very carefully attacked him. He dodged easily.

Very well... so I would not have to train on a level that low. Good. I powered up a bit and directed a kick at his upper torso.

Vegeta

He came on hesitantly. I could see he was uncertain. That would have to change. He attacked with a predictable move that I assumed was meant to draw me out so he could ascertain my reflexes and I reached down to block it easily. Then I caught his foot and raised an eyebrow.

"You will fight me properly! Come on!" Not waiting for him to react I spun and tossed him away, watching as he caught himself effortlessly and landed with perfect grace.

I again sank into my stance. I was not going to play around with him.

Son Goku

He had never accepted anything less than the best from me... but I couldn't fight him full force, I knew that. Still I followed his orders and powered up some more.

I grinned ferally, my battle lust finally peeked and danced around him. I tried to measure his power level to better know what to expect, now that he finally was powered up. I noticed that it was surprisingly high. It reminded me of the one he had had just had when we first met.

Odd. If that was true, why had he not become much stronger from now till our meeting in the future?

I discarded my thought focusing on the challenge at hand and started dealing lightning fast punches and kicks to him.

Vegeta

I grunted under the impact and suddenly found myself on the defence. He was very fast but so was I.

I spared energy for a smirk and took a blow to the chest because of it. Time to get serious. I had not even powered up completely yet. If this was all he thought I had he was mistaken. Blocking his blows and raising my energy up further, I dropped down below his reach, attempting to sweep his feet from under him.

Son Goku

I dearly hoped he wouldn't sense that I was still holding back big time. His fighting style was a bit different from his older selves. Not necessary worse, but different. He relied more on his body-strength and less on his ki. His tactics were a bit unused to me but I quickly adapted as I recognized the pattern. But suddenly he dropped low and caught my feet, trying to bring me down. Not having anticipated such a move so early in the fight I was surprised. I attacked without thinking. I powered up and threw a large Ki-Blast at him.

Vegeta

I suppose I must have blinked because the next thing I saw was a bright energy blast coming straight at me. I jumped back and crossed my arms, creating a shield. I had to put a lot of energy into it, reinforcing it as I was pushed back, and barely managed to deflect it toward the ki-absorbing hull plates. He was good, I grudgingly had to admit. My opinion of him began to raise slightly. He still seemed tentative though. I launched at him again and took on even more ki pushing up toward my limit now, canines flashing. I always made a point of not showing my full power very much unless I had to but if he was able to throw something like that at me he had to have some large reserves. I wondered if I had perhaps grown lazy and complacent from sparring with Radditz and fighting off-world on weak planets.

Son Goku

After a moment of tense hesitation I smiled in relief. He dodged my blast. He was even better than I had suspected. I had to strain myself not to go super out of sheer battle lust. The heat of the fight normally never failed to get to me - though I remembered that this had not been the case for the last months.

I easily dodged his attacks as I danced around him. For some reason this made me feel more alive than I had for years. My blood rushed through me as I met his every blow. Without noticing I fell into our old fighting pattern, the one that had evolved in years of sparring. I dis- and reappeared behind him, slamming my fists into his back.

Vegeta

He was *much* better than anticipated... in fact after only this short while I was beginning to lag. I couldn't believe it!

I put even more effort out but he always seemed to be just above me no matter how high I went! I couldn't help but wonder where the hell he came from.

I remembered the scanner in the med lab. Was it possible that it had not been broken? No. Ridiculous! I grinned ferally and pressed what advantages I could find as we danced.

I managed to get only superficial hits on him and he seemed to be able to second guess me as I moved. This was getting tiresome!

I sped to the side just at the last second, sending a ki-powered jab to his ribs, flipping backwards to avoid his response. This fight was much better than I had anticipated. I watched him with narrow eyes. He held himself very well. There were few gaps in his defence and he flowed between offence and guard nearly flawlessly.

He truly was a fighter.

His tail waved behind him in teasing, coy twists and I let my eyes linger on it one second too long. Shit! He moved fast! I barely followed that! Rolling with the blow I started to grow annoyed. How was he that fast? How could he be giving me this much trouble? There were very few Saiyajin who could push me like this. I found my feet again but suddenly, fluidly he appeared behind me and his hit threw me grunting to the ground, my breath knocked away with the force of it.

Son Goku

Mid-fight I suddenly realized that he was falling behind. My last blow caught him real hard and threw him to the floor.

I slowed down. I was not exhausted at all, but I knew that I was giving away too much. I wished that I could fight him for real, but it was impossible. I thought about if I could ask him to end the fight. He didn't seem to take my questions lightly but if we continued on this rate he was bound to discover one or another thing about me...

Yet I stood in awe.

Despite the fact that he had a much lower power-level than me he held himself very well, and the way he bent and dodged made his style look almost artfully. It was more a dance, gracefully yet deadly.

I noticed how he used his tail to balance his movements. It always seemed to counterpart his actions to give him that bit of extra fluidity. I watched closely and tried to copy his movements.

I had never before realized how much the tail was of use in finding your balance. Something had always been amiss and I had never known what it was.

I wished I could have fought my time's Vegeta with us both having tails. It would have added an extra challenge.

Damn.

Why couldn't I stop thinking about him?

Suddenly I grew aware of the fact that Vegeta had problems getting up after a particularly powerful kick I had applied to him. I grinned at him apologetically and offered him my hand to help him back on his feet.

Vegeta

I forced a soundless deep breath and into my lungs and let it out again before pushing up onto my hands and knees with as much controlled dignity as I could muster despite a throbbing ache in my side from one hit that I had not quite managed to dodge.

Glancing back I felt a sharp jab of hostility. He didn't even look winded!! I had to consider this. It was possible that he was just as strong as I was. He was a bit older so it was to be expected that his style might be more tried and steady than my own but I was a long experienced fighter.

I should have been able to give him just as much as he gave me. My eyes went to his offered hand and my features darkened.

'I need no help!'

I glared and stood up, eyeing him coolly as I straightened.

A prince could stand on his own no matter what.

The blood was pounding in my ears while I studied him again.

Son Goku

He refused to take my hand and somehow that did not surprise me. I had expected it. He never had been very fond of taking other's help.

"That was pretty good!" I stated smiling, waiting for him to recover.

"Now I'm warmed up. I could continue for hours! If only I wasn't so hungry..." I yawned and stretched luxuriously. My face fell and I placed one hand over my stomach, which growled in response.

"So... are we going to spar for real now?" I asked. "Or are we going to have breakfast first?"

Vegeta

He was a pain in the ass...but he *was* a good fighter.

Anger flared up that I couldn't even... I thrust that thought away.

Again my curiosity was piqued even though I would never have admitted it. I scowled at his light response.

Bah! Idiot! Mocking me! Hn. Just for that...

He could take care of himself. He had proven that this morning. I wiped the scowl away. Good. Then that meant I would not have to dirty my hands with keeping him out of trouble. I almost smirked at that thought. I would let him handle whatever his first problem turned out to be on his own. We would see how he dealt with life on this ship.

I straightened, turning my back haughtily and began to stride off toward the showers without a word. My workout was through for this morning. Possibilities sprang up in my mind. It would certainly be worth my time to have someone who could push me to my limits for sparring. It had been a while.

I still did not know if I could trust him though. I looked back at him when he did not move.

"You coming? Or do you plan to find your way there yourself? I will not wait for you to figure out how your legs work."

Son Goku

Shrugging I brightened up and simply followed him once more.

We entered the showers. I turned and stripped out of the unfamiliar clothing, having a bit of trouble with my tail on the way. After I finally did it I turned and saw Vegeta strolling down to the shower-stalls. It was rare that I saw him like this, since he had always despised my careless ways with nudity.

Curiosity let me take a closer look. I could not help but notice that his body was probably a bit leaner and less scarred than the one of his older self, but that he nevertheless was very muscular and well toned in all the right places. The powerful chest would be distinctive through all the years coming As would be the narrow hips that were supported by strong muscular legs. What fascinated me most was the furry appendage waving gracefully behind him. It had been so long since I had seen another with a tail and never like this.

I tilted my head, almost hypnotized by the slow movements of the downy tail.

Suddenly I realized that I had been staring and blushed slightly. I turned hurriedly and quickly lathered up to wash myself.

Vegeta

Caught up in my own thoughts, I glanced over at him but he was turned the other way. I frowned. 'What is with him? What is he? He's... Hmph! He's not anything! He's a low-class soldier with a grudge. I will have to wait if I want to find out more. I at least know that... if he chooses... I can depend upon his strength.'

I choked back a growl at that thought. If he chooses. The anger welled up again. I was his prince! That did not change just because he chose to ignore it! Fucking hell! He would learn his place! I just had to learn what it would take to teach him. I would not endure being disavowed by my own subject.

I looked him over for another moment before turning away.

'He's the same as any other warrior except that he can match me.' I glanced over again, eyed him and shook my head. I marvelled again at his lack of battle scars. At least beyond the fresh ones from when he was found here...but even those were minute. He held such a softness about him and it had fooled even me until our spar.

I would have to wait before making any decisions about him. I knew that he would bring me trouble from the beginning but now that I saw him like this... I was even more sure. His looks would not gain any attention that I wanted. And I wondered if he even had a clue… He was strong and his broad muscular shoulders caught my eye but the way he held himself…

He was different from the other soldiers. He looked defenceless.

I turned back to my shower. At least he was a Saiyajin... hn... a renegade Saiyajin without any respect! I didn't like it at all. I could only wait until he acted out of turn again.

'Who knows what trouble it will cause...' I gave a smug smirk at that thought. It might be fun to see the havoc that I had no doubt he would bring on himself.

Son Goku

Finally I was done and stepped out to dry myself and then dress again. I threw a disgusted look at the armour before putting it on. I always had the feeling it would hinder my movements. For a moment I was at a loss as of what to do with my tail. I had noticed that Vegeta wore his coiled tightly around his waist most of the time. I had the idea that that was probably some kind of protection. But it also looked terribly uncomfortable. I decided to let my tail do as it pleased for now. It had been too long since it had been able to do that. Vegeta was already waiting for me, arms folded and glaring like always. I started getting used to it - again. I waited for him to lead the way to wherever they kept the food in this hellhole.

Vegeta

I was forced to wait on him as he took his sweet time. Finally he was dressed and ready to leave. I turned and strode away.

The mess hall was just down the corridor from the training facilities. It didn't take long to reach it. I smirked as we entered wondering what his reaction to the ship's food would be.

It was pretty obvious he had not been on one of these before. He had better hope that he did not have a weak stomach.

Son Goku

Humming with excitement I followed Vegeta with a spring in my step. The prospect of food was always welcome.

I wondered what stuff they had here.

Hopefully Frieza would feed his minions well. Finally we got to the important part. I looked around curiously as we entered the cantina.

Lots of aliens were sitting at standard metallic tables, eating something looking suspiciously like grey slime.

Hmph... well if they preferred their food like that...

At one wall was something that looked like a serving facility. I waited for Vegeta to lead me there but he chose a table first. I noticed the great variety of races on our way.

I saw some Saiyajin but they were by far outnumbered by all kinds of other creatures. There were for example small heavy looking creatures with metallic skin, then green reptilian looking ones, a couple of stony looking guys and in one corner I saw a very large muscular being that reminded me of the ancient earth tale of an ogre. One or two beings looked a bit familiar and I realized that I must have run across them in one of my fights with Frieza or his brother Cooler.

In the far corner I noticed a group of beings that I recognized immediately. They were seated around a large table and were apparently having quite a feast. No comparison to the grey slime.

The Ginyu-Force!

I sighed. Those guys had been fairly annoying. I recognized Ginyu first, who had once switched body with me. To his right sat the red-skinned guy whom I had named "pretty boy" because he seemed so fond of his hair. The others names had fled my memory.

But I did notice that Zarbon and that big fat blob of his partner, Dodoria were seated right at the next table.

I couldn't suppress a shiver at seeing all these guys who I had fought so many years ago. They were no threat to me now - or at least they would not have been under normal circumstances.

I decided that I should try and stay away from them as far as possible.

Vegeta

I stepped surely into the large room filled with aliens. I had not missed this all those months I had been gone.

I had actually managed to eat rather well in all the time I had spent on that last purge. I could smell it already even despite the scents of sweat and whatever other things that the various aliens carried on them.

No matter how smug I felt toward Son, I did not look forward to this either. I had not managed to rise above this particular segregation yet. I cast one glance at my partner and twitched.

"Control yourself, Son." He looked absolutely famished as if he had not eaten in days... and I supposed it was possible he hadn't. He would not be so excited when he realized he was merely a grunt. I held up my hand to the counter.

"Enjoy."

Son Goku

My eyes opened in horror. The whole stuff they were serving here was just looking like grey slime! There wasn't anything else! Yuk! I shuddered. For a moment I couldn't help but look disappointed. No meat, no rice, no ramen, no nothing!

Really, what did Frieza expect, doing this to his men? No wonder they had been defeated so easily. Who could survive on stuff like this?

I looked around. Apparently it was possible. It must be digestible, the hundreds of... things... eating it were living proof of that. And I was way too hungry to let myself be hindered to try the stuff nevertheless like Vegeta seemed to have hoped.

I helped myself to a remotely sized portion and then sat down at our table. Carefully I took one small first bite - then stuck out my tongue, utterly disgusted.

I tried not to taste the stuff as I swallowed it. It tasted just as bad as it looked.

Unluckily I was so starved that I was far from caring - I would have eaten Yajirobii's boots right now! Therefore I forced down another spoonful, much to Vegeta's delight.

He had known all along! I growled low.

I had never yet wasted food and I would not start now. I forced myself to eat the stuff though my stomach tried to cramp up and my guts seemed to try and revolt.

Vegeta

I chuckled quietly, just loud enough for him to hear.

"Not all aliens can eat the same foods. This is the happy medium. Nutritional value enough to keep the troops moving without killing off half of them. Gives even a Saiyajin pause." I smirked and watched, amused as he ate it but my smirk soon turned sour and I closed my eyes in disgust.

"Once again. Son. Control yourself." I muttered at him disgustedly. His eating habits were absolutely absurd!! I turned away and refused to look at him as I finished my own meal. I had a fairly hard stomach from living on these rations but even I could lose my appetite as I was learning.

Son Goku

"Huh?" I looked at him swallowing another helping of the gooey stuff. I wasn't very satisfied with the meal but at least I didn't feel like I was going to starve anymore. After a few more remorseful helpings I leaned back and curiously gazed at Vegeta. I had noticed that he had eaten *very* little for a Saiyajin, even if you took into account that my own appetite was quite legendary. I wondered why that was. Was he really able to live on such a small amount?

"What now?" I asked.

Vegeta

I glared at him dryly and turned away again.

"Now..." I started to answer but was interrupted when I glanced up to see someone take a seat next to us. Great. Just what I needed. I raised an eyebrow at the unwanted newcomer.

Son Goku

I didn't realize that someone had sat down right next to me until Vegeta looked up. I recognized "Pretty Boy" immediately. The rather petite red-skinned alien was by far the most handsome of the Ginyu-Force...

I gazed at him curiously. He had his eyes fixed on Vegeta. I suddenly realized that a lot of people were staring at us... if at him or me I couldn't figure out.

Jeice

I had noticed Vegeta and the new Saiyajin immediately when they entered the room. It was by now a habit - or a hobby - to me to keep track of the wild prince and his actions. He was an interesting game. He kept refusing everyone and had been successfully so for a long time.

Frieza was pretty fond of him. His luck.

I sneered at them both, taking in both the newcomer's appearance - well built, muscular, nice assets - and the prince. I had always been fond of him. Maybe because we were almost one size and his hair was such a nice contrast to my own. Or maybe because he had proven to be so hard to get. Whatever. Since I had overheard that conversation between Frieza and Zarbon my interest had been peeked even more. I was not too sure what it had been about but I was very curious. Vegeta was in for a surprise or two...

"More Saiyajin. That's all this ship needs." I smirked at him.

Vegeta

'Here it comes.' I thought wryly. I had been gone for nearly a year or so and still! What a one track mind! The white haired freak Jeice smiled coyly and leaned forward a bit, saying the snub with a deep low voice. I looked over at the alien and purred smugly back.

"Why, of course. Someone has to be here to do the job right after all."

Son Goku

Jeice threw his long white hair back in a vain kind of way. Then he laughed. I did NOT like the way he laughed. And I did not like the way his gaze wandered between the two of us. I had the feeling that his eyes wandered down my body. Oddly I felt like some meat on the counter. I couldn't quite place what was happening here…

Then he turned his attention back to Vegeta.

Jeice

I had to smile at the audacity of that Saiyajin prince. He hadn't lost his bite in that last year when he had been out of my reach, certainly not.

I eyed his companion. Nice piece of flesh too, but I had set my sights on the ice prince and that was final. At least until I got what I wanted. And I always got what I wanted in the end. You weren't a member of the Giniyu-force for nothing!

"Hm. Care to introduce your friend here to me?" I purred back, effortlessly joining into Vegeta's little let's-all-be-nice-and-pretend-we-like-each-other game. I knew the rules on this ship and I was one of the major players in this game. If Vegeta actually thought he could get away like this he was disappointing me.

Vegeta

I endured the close studying eye he gave both Son and myself. I knew what he wanted.

I'd been through it enough. I would not play the game though.

I had managed to avoid this unpleasantness because of the purge that had come up before and now I had another. I did not have to bother with this.

Son was obviously out of his league. He was just watching curiously and looking as if something had surprised him. I straightened and stood easily.

"Unfortunately, I don't have the time or the inclination... Jeice." I said his name in such a way that it was obvious that that was not the title which I would have liked to use.

"I have business to attend to." I stood up and nodded to Son to follow, ignoring the red alien. I turned to leave and found my way blocked.

Son Goku

I looked at Jeice suspiciously. I couldn't decipher what was going on, but something was telling me, that there was more to this than met the eye. I was used to Vegeta's sarcasm and therefore knew pretty immediately that he heartily disliked Jeice. I could only agree. First the redskin had looked to me like the most pleasant member of the Giniy-force, but I couldn't quite place the looks he was giving me. I just knew that they were making shivers run up and down my spine. It was a very unpleasant feeling, to say the least.

As Vegeta stood up I gladly followed him, leaving the red-skinned pretty-boy behind. But then Vegeta stopped dead. I peered around him to see what was delaying us now.

Yuck... it was Dodoria... that ugly slime ball. I somehow suddenly felt cornered. I couldn't place what was going on but by the looks of Vegeta something unpleasant was ahead.

Vegeta

I sneered in disgust at the fat, nasty thing that blocked the whole aisle. Jeice was one thing...this was completely another!

"Get out of my way, you ball of slime!" Dodoria just grinned at me and my nose wrinkled at the putrid stench that wafted off of him to assail my strong Saiyajin senses.

Jeice

I took my time getting up, studying the display carefully. Since Vegeta had been sitting behind the table beforehand I had not been able to see all of him which I now gladly did.

This was actually one case where the standard uniform was doing wonders. I had never been more happy about the fact that it consisted mainly of spandex. Such a nice material. Clingy and showy in all the right places... and what right places this fiery Saiyajin had!

Especially that well built backside... very tempting! I wondered if Vegeta knew just how many on this ship would jump him the minute they had him cornered!

Luckily for him he was stronger than most of them... and unluckily for him there were still some who were stronger than him.

Poor prince.

Such a pity…

I smirked and stepped forward, tossing my hair back with a casual gesture.

"Want to leave us so soon, Vegeta? I thought you might want to keep us company - and maybe introduce us to your new friend here. I've never seen him before." I noticed Dodoria eyeing the fresh meat too. Tsk... as if he had a chance!

Zarbon would most probably look to that he got his hands on this one first. He had always been fond of Saiyajin. Word had been around that he might even have gotten to the prized prince - but that were only rumours and Zarbon only smiled secretive when asked. Tease.

Son Goku

Deciding to spare Vegeta the need to speak to these guys, whom he clearly despised, any longer I stepped forward to introduce myself.

"My name is Son Goku and I am Prince Vegeta's bodyguard." I held it short though I would have loved to include something like 'And that's all *you* need to know!'. I just hoped this would work out somehow. I very much disliked meeting all those people who might recognize me in the future. Hopefully they wouldn't make the connection between the warrior on Namek and the funny no-name bodyguard later on. Hopefully...

Vegeta

Ugh! I detested Dodoria! Jeice caught my attention again and I grimaced under his scrutiny. How was I to handle this...my mind flew trying to find a way to leave without turning my back.

I could not let myself look like a coward here in front of half the battleship but I could not pull the red alien into a fight. He was stronger than I was. Not by much but still...

I did have someplace to be now. I just needed to convince them of it. I was surprised to hear my *bodyguard* suddenly come to life next to me. I kept myself from looking up just to make sure I heard him right. I was not used to having anyone around to back me up in such a manner.

Even when Radditz was part of my purging team. He was too weak to be as much help as he was no doubt willing to be. He had proved his loyalty to me many times before.

The next thing I knew a nasty ham-hand landed on my person and I snarled, powering up.

Son Goku

Tilting my head I watched the whole ordeal playing out before me. Vegeta was somewhat cornered by Jeice and Dodoria. I didn't really understand why they were so adamant about him staying. I had introduced myself and evidently Vegeta had business to attend to or at least he pretended to. The Giniyu-Force-member and Friezas right hand should see that too.

Why did they bother him further?

Vegeta looked pretty unhappy. He sneered at Dodoria, showing his disgust pretty plainly. If I focused I thought that I could even smell it in his scent.

I could not decipher whom he disliked more, the pretty redskin or the fat blob.

Said blob took the next step just a second later, stepping forward and placing a hand on Vegeta's shoulder. I flinched involuntarily, half figuring that he would be blown to bits within moments. Even I could feel how bad Vegeta's temper was at the moment and he had never liked being touched - especially not by people whom he disliked, which pretty much included everyone. But to my surprise Vegeta just clenched his teeth, then sharply stepped sideways. I could see how much he detested this - so I was impressed how much he kept his patience.

Jeice

I narrowed my eyes when I saw Dodoria touching *my* ice-prince.

Hrmph. If he wasn't so close to Frieza I would blast him for that!

I was stronger than him and he knew it. He was only acting so bold because he knew that not only half the ship was watching but Zarbon was around somewhere too. I could not take on the green-haired Repta-jin.

Still... if he didn't retreat soon I would have to teach him not to interfere with my interests. Really, as if Vegeta - or anyone in his right mind for that matter - would ever bend to him without utmost violence! Dodoria was just so... eurgh! No, Vegeta belonged to me... that perfect body deserved only a perfect pursuer in return. Stepping forward I was just about to interfere when someone else made it to Dodoria first.

Vegeta

I stiffened and clenched my fists. How dare he touch me! I jerked away from him and sacrificed a step backward. Fuck! I didn't have a choice now. I would have to react.

"Get the hell out of my way! I have more important things to deal with than the likes of *you!*" I sneered up at the pile of waste that stood there grinning stupidly.

"You would be a waste of energy and time and there is not a single thing I would gain from it."

The insult was marked in my tone and I made my loathing as clear as day. It was a challenge but I couldn't walk out of here with less than that anymore anyway. I was not a coward!

Son Goku

Finally the prince jerked away from the offending digit, but despite his words I had the feeling there was something deeper at work here. I could have sworn, that Vegeta sounded almost... a tad bit nervous.

No, I must be wrong, that can't be.

Finally it occurred to me that in this time and place the prince was probably still not as strong as the ugly creature in front of me.

Suddenly I understood. Said creature was also, if I remembered it right, Frieza's right hand.

Therefore, since Vegeta seemed to be very inclined about not raising Frieza's attention or getting into trouble, that was probably the reason why he did not challenge Dodoria.

Another thought came to me.

I had been assigned Vegeta's bodyguard, hadn't I?

While I was pondering, Dodoria laughed harshly and closed in on Vegeta again, putting his fat hand back onto the prince's shoulder, trying to hold him back.

If I was Vegeta's bodyguard, it was my duty to protect him... and doing so was only my job so no one could really be bothered by it… right?

That sounded logical enough for me. I stepped forward fluently, taking the offending hand and, squeezing only lightly, pushed it and it's owner with a slight exertion of ki just enough to make him stumble back three or four steps.

Dodoria clearly had not anticipated that, easily readable of the surprised expression on his face. "The prince did not allow you to touch him." I said, tentatively, because I still did not grasp the situation fully and did not want to make a grave mistake.

"I must ask you to keep your distance unless Vegeta says otherwise."

Vegeta

Now *that* was a shock but I kept my features calm and disparaging. How strong *was* this Son Goku?? I did not dwell on it, though.

My attention went directly to Jeice. He was staring in surprise. I drew up again. They were beneath me. They were not worthy of my disdain. They were not anything that demanded my actions. Power is in the eyes of the beholders. That was one thing that I learned as a ruling class. If you assert your dominance and worth in a strong enough manner then others will accept it thus. I let Son take Dodoria's attention from me. I produced a smug smirk and raised an eyebrow.

"Unless you have something *pressing* for my attention..." I mocked.

"...I have duties to attend to." I turned my back purposefully showing that they did not threaten me in the least. It was a slight that I knew I probably would never get away with but it would be noted by the rest of the witnesses. From behind me Dodoria snarled and turned his angry glare onto Son. "Why you little... I'll squash you like paste!" He blubbered at my bodyguard though his features were pinched with a tinge of pain.

Son Goku

I shrugged and stepped back.

"Hey, nothing personal. I'm his bodyguard, this is only my job." Despite my words I inwardly threatened him to come near me or Vegeta again - I would find a way to show him a thing or two then. Frieza might be one thing - I still loathed him with a vengeance, but Dodoria... he was just… well disgusting.

Jeice

To say that I was surprised at the newcomer - he had introduced himself as Son Goku, if I remembered it right - boldness was the understatement of the century. There was only one explanation.

He must be fresh from the surface or he would never have dared to do this. Most people on the ship were too clever than to mess with Dodoria. With the probably exception of Zarbon and my Giniyu-Team - and Frieza of course - he and his foul fighting techniques were stronger than everyone else. That Saiyajin was sure in for a surprise next time Dodoria got his hands on him... but then again I actually found it amusing that Dodoria had been humiliated like that by a monkey.

Inwardly I had to applaud the man. Great show!

Also Dodoria deserved it for touching what I had very clearly marked as my territory. Everyone knew that I was after the prince. I was not sure if Frieza knew - or if he would approve if he did - but he had not objected yet and I took that as a show of allowance. Therefore when I noticed that Dodoria was about to blow up and teach Son Goku a lesson or two I stepped forward.

"Dodoria!" I only said his name, but my gaze spoke volumes. It was icy cold and Dodoria, knowing that I was stronger than him, cringed. He had probably assumed that I would not dare interfere but he had been wrong. He seethed, but he stood back and let the two Saiyajin pass. I grinned. Vegeta might think that he got away for now, but he did know nothing yet. "See you later, Vegeta!" I smiled smugly, my voice full off cheerfulness. He shot an awkward glance at me over his shoulder before leaving the cantina. Obviously he knew that something was coming - only what it was he did not. But he would soon enough. I grinned wider as I made my way out of another door. So many things to prepare.. I was really looking forward to this!

Vegeta

My show was spoiled slightly when Jeice finally spoke up, restraining the fat blob. As if he were *allowing* me to leave.

I would have to be extra careful now it seemed. It left a bad taste in my mouth but I turned my chin up slightly and walked calmly away with a haughty lazy smirk. The eyes of everyone in the room settled on myself and my "bodyguard".

Will wonders never cease... This Saiyajin was showing more and more worth as the day went on. Perhaps this would not turn out to be such a fool hardy thing as I thought. That had been *much* easier to handle than it would have been if I were alone.

Jeice's veiled threat hit home quite clearly. I sent a glance back before I could control myself. He was smirking with amusement. Damn.

I stepped casually from the room, Son following behind me. I did not give him even a look as I intended to get as far away from the mess hall as possible. A purge was just what I needed now, to get away from this place at least for a little while again.

Son Goku

I hadn't even realized I was holding my breath until we finally left that room. I could still feel all those eyes on my back. Shivering I shrugged it off. What an unpleasant feeling. Wondering whether I could ask Vegeta what exactly had happened back there, I trudged along.

I pondered if there was more beyond that casual talk. That hate in Vegeta's eyes and that smug look on Jeice's face! Hm...

Suddenly I realized that we had been walking for quite some time without Vegeta uttering a word or even getting slower. Quickening my steps I closed in on him.

"So... you have business to attend to now? What should I do?" Secretly I hoped that he would send me back to Radditz' room. I desperately needed some time to think. The most urgent thing now was that I make a plan on how to get away from here. Maybe if I took a space-craft... but I did not know how to operate those. I had always flown auto-pilot till now...

But I had to get away, it was getting more and more dangerous the more I got involved.

And I must not think about what was going to happen to Vegeta-sei or Vegeta himself…

I must not!

Vegeta

I cast a closed look at him behind me. He was full of surprises. Now I really was not sure what I thought of him.

Uncontrollable.

Unpredictable.

I still did not know if he was reliable. But he was very useful.

"Yes. Business... You did very well back there. You even had *me* believing you for a moment." I hmphed before turning back to face forward again.

"We are going on a purge. You need only to keep silent and do as I say."

Son Goku

He walked on as I stopped dead in my tracks. I felt myself paling and gulped.

No. He ccould not be serious.

"A... a purge..?" Coldness was rising up in me. Maybe I had misheard…

"Um... what exactly happens on a purge?"

Oh no, please…

I'd do anything but that...

For a moment I pondered that it might be useful because I could learn how to operate a space-craft. Maybe he just meant that we would… errm... visit some planet and .. umm... talk to them.

Sure.

Vegeta

I blinked and glanced back at him again.

"What?" Did he know nothing? No. He must have not meant that as basely as it sounded. So he had never been on a purge before. That was not *so* uncommon. It made sense that he would not know the intricacies.

"It is simple enough. You need only to follow my lead. You will have fun, I'm sure. And maybe Dodoria will have forgotten about you by the time we return. Just don't fraternize with the other members of the team and everything will work out fine until you get acclimated." I stated matter-of-factly, not really paying attention to him.

Son Goku

Fun...?

Well... that didn't sound too bad. Maybe it wasn't really... No. I was fooling myself and I knew it. Vegeta had never told me much about his time in Frieza's service. But by what I had experienced myself I knew that what was to come was nothing pleasant.

I shivered again.

I would not do it.

I could not do it.

Kami help me, what am I to do?

"A purge. Am I... Am I supposed to fight and... and.. .kill..?" I asked, dreading the answer and still already knowing it.

What am I to do?

Vegeta

His strange tone of voice finally got through to me. I stopped, only now realizing that he was no longer following me. I turned to face him and frowned considering.

What was wrong with him now? He was very unsettled suddenly. After a second I smirked slightly. He would never answer my questions but his actions continued to give me much information. Smirking I looked him over with narrow eyes. He wanted to know my motives earlier. Now he wanted to know if he would be expected to fight and kill?

He was extremely soft for a Saiyajin of such ability. I decided I wanted to see just what he was thinking. I smirked coyly.

"Of course. We shall announce ourselves with an eruption of fire and blood and before they know what has happened we will mow them down like the animals they are. And then *you*, being the rookie, will have the pleasure of taking the women and children first. I expect to hear extra loud screams from your quadrant." I teased him with a dry voice just to see how he would respond.

Son Goku

I regarded him wide-eyed. He couldn't be serious!

Yet he had a very serious expression on his face. And I remembered just how cruel and blood craving he had been when we first met - and later on too, for example when he went majin.

He was serious.

I was expected to... to kill innocent and defenceless beings.

Women and children? Unbelievably!

I could not! Never!

But what should I do? Should I refuse? Of course I would! But this would stir even more trouble! Or should I play along and try to find a way to hinder them to do it when we were there? Maybe that was for the best. It was the only solution I could think of.

Still... how could he be so cold and cruel? How could he wipe out sentient beings without a second thought? What had made him so uncaring? After having lived some years on Chikyuu-sei he had slowly changed up till the point where he had actually defended earth. But I would never forget how he had disposed of Nappa or how he had killed all those people in that stadium.

"This is not right..." I murmured. I had to prevent this from happening!

Vegeta

I waited patiently for his response. His emotions were so easy to read. He was horrified. It took quite an effort to keep my face impassive. My eyebrows rose and I cocked my head to the side.

"Not the most enthusiastic response I've ever had." I said wryly and finally allowed my smile to widen. I gave a low, amused, hearty chuckle.

"Where does right and wrong come into anything? Not here." I laughed again, it was too funny. Just the look on his face spoke volumes. What a rare gift! A conscience!

"How un-Saiyajin like you are!" I shook my head.

"Just do as you are told. You are a warrior. Nothing else. You will be burdened with nothing more than your orders."

Son Goku

Mortified. That was my only feeling at this terrible situation.

Vegeta had just told me that I was supposed to slaughter a whole planets population!

'An eruption of fire and blood.'

'Just do as you're told.'

So serious. So cold. I had known that he had been a murderer, a ruthless killer back in those days... I just had forgotten over the years. I had always believed in the small good part of him rather then seeing the black side of his soul. Had I been wrong all along?

He looked at me… and laughed.

Vegeta laughed.

It would not have been too unusual... he had laughed at me more than anything else over the years. That mocking sarcastic laughter, it was well-known to me.

But this laughter was different. Just as different as his whole behaviour. He did not exactly mock me. He even seemed to listen to me. And this sounded almost like a genuine laughter. As if he had just made a great joke. It occurred to me that I had never heard Vegeta laugh a real laughter.

Never in all those years. I wondered what had stolen that laughter from him…

I tried to imagine him standing on a mountain of blood and slaughtered bodies, laughing like this - but it wouldn't fit. If he would have laughed as he did when he had been majin - yes.

But... this... this just would not connect!

I was confused.

'No right or wrong' Was that really what he believed? It seemed I had to go on a purge to find out after all.

Vegeta

I raised an eyebrow at him again and settled back into a satisfied smirk. He was still less than thrilled and, I could tell, completely confused. He was not the swiftest creature I had ever stumbled upon but he was amusing. I would enjoy playing with him.

Whatever he wanted here... I doubted he would succeed. Though strength counted for much, he was too slow. All it took was for someone to outwit you and then it didn't matter how strong you were.

I turned away.

"Come, Son Goku. Your first purge awaits." I turned with a flourish of my cape and strode on. He would learn the ropes soon enough.

~ to be continued ~

Outro (contains response to reviews)

Rogue: *strides in with a wide smirk, cracking knuckles in satisfaction*

Poor poor Son Goku. A purge! Aaaw... We're so mean to him. And he seems to not have a clue just what to think of my little prince, does he?

Anyway... *rolls eyes innocently* We seem to have gotten a much better round of reviews this time around. I can't wait until we have them hooked. My street corner has been rather lonely. Only a few return customers so far.

*glances back at the street sign on the corner that names the crossing of "Lemon ave" and "Angst drive"*

Quite empty... *a wad of newspaper blows by* How has your end been, angel?

Dark Serapha: *sits on a fluffy white cloud at the crossing of "Angst-drive" and "Sap-Boulevard"*

I am very content with the replies! Look, Chibi Gemi here has found her way to our street corner. Her lovely reviews are the light of my days!

Rogue: *smirk* I was quite impressed by one particular assertion…. If I may quote...: "In'lar-anth" the new hormonal wonder drug..." I think I would like to borrow this from Ginia for future advertising if she has no objections.

Dark Serapha: She's been especially nice to us. Her reviews just have this very special enthusiasm. I'd say we dedicate this chapter to her!

Rogue: That is a wonderful idea. I definitely enjoy reading her comments.

Dark Serapha: Then it's official! This chapter is now officially dedicated to Ginia and her wonderful page, the Hideaway!

I think this would be a good place to mention some of our other reviewers.

Lauryn, Sade Kline and Megumi Amano, thanks for you praise!

Punker182biatch and SaintMe, sorry but the cliffhangers of doom are our speciality! Did you see the warnings? Good. Saw the SM? That means exactly what you think it means! We believe in interactiveness! Meaning: You get tortured too! *smirk*

Kikoro: You bet that this is going to be epic! We intend to break some records here!

SonKikyo: Uh. *looks odd* well here's the second chapter so don't worry.. *looks out for the guys with the white jackets…*

XZanayu, sorry to disappoint you. We have almost every pairing mentioned in this story but Gohan x Piccolo is one of the few that will not appear.

Lully: Our two Vegetas are all our pride! *smile

Nene: I'm working on Schattenseele. Kriegsmond had to be delayed for until I've finished with it.

Saiyan Thrombone and kamehameha-roshi: Glad you like it!

Xero Sky: You reviewed! YAY!*big sparkly eyes* Now I can die happily!

Heather Darrow: *smirk* We'll see with which Vegeta Son will hook up in the end… Hehe.. Radditz is one of my favourites. Without giving away too much - I think we will do some Radditz-torturing..

SlamDancer: Umm.. yeah, but I actually meant that there were spoilers on the original story in the outro. Sorry if that was a bit of a misunderstanding.

Reapersun: Glad you liked those lines! We feel honoured! And there is going to be a looot of chapters till this is finished...

Kiarene: Wow.. and yet another of my favourite authors! Thanks for reviewing!

Rogue: Aaah. *smile* So many wonderful reviewers.

There is also:

Kia - So glad you read it. I was hoping you would.

Vilranda - Sorry...we couldn't find that problem solving machine and we got rid of Bulma *smirk*

Lehlla - Back to the Future....what a great trilogy. Awesome taste.

Leiko - Yes...but you weren't bored right? *snicker*

Opus - My Bud! Yay. I've been trying to get you to read my stories forever! It's about time!

Pixydust and Faith - I haven't seen you for a while. I missed you! Hope you love this one just as much as we love writing it.

Nene2 - glad you liked it so much.

And finally...Minna....*dodges rabid reader* Yeesh!! Here it is!! Take it! *backs away*

Dark Serapha: *smiles at lovely Rogue*

They all have no idea what they are in for, do they?

This fic just starts where other fictions end. I think none of them even remotely guesses how long this is going to be…

And just think, lovely, we hardly have anything on "Lemon Ave" yet! But we will… oh and how we will.. .*snickers in a Rogue-like way, then realizes and smiles embarrassed and angelic*

Shall we enlighten them where the counter currently stands?

Rogue: Oh yes. I plan to make a killing on my Lemon Ave-end. Do the honours, my angel.

Dark Serapha: *counts on her fingers, then frowns and takes toes and wings into account*

Hmmmm. I'm, not 100 % sure, but I think we have at least seven or eight full blown lemons so far plus a couple of errr.. half lemons - half limes. If you can call them that. Kinda. *smirks

Rogue: *raises eyebrow* No... We have more than that... *smirk* I'm sure we do. Or at least....we will. And though...sadly...they do not come in full force for a while...we will have plenty of lime for our starved readers. *evil grin*

Nothing like a taste to get you hooked before the real drug is available.

*rubs hands together conspiratorially*

Oh the plans that I have... *smirk*

Dark Serapha: Well.. if I remember it right.. *whistles innocently, flaps her black wings and smacks cloud absentmindedly* …the next chapter is already getting pretty steamy, isn't it? Poor Vegeta... *purrs

Rogue: *eyes widen* Oh...boy...

*backs away from the corner and into a slim shadow to peek around the corner at violent angel* ....It makes me nervous when you do that.... You better not be tooooo gung-ho on my Vegy. I will have to retaliate...

*pauses then smirks* On second thought.....knock yourself out. *steps back into view*

It just means I get revenge later. *eyes angel predatorily*

Since Son is the first main character in this story then that means I can do oh so much more to him than you can do to Vegy. *smirk* I plan to enjoy myself immensely.

Dark Serapha: *blushes adorably - only someone who looks very closely could see the feral glint in her eyes*

I just wanna play with our lovely saiyan prince, I swear I won't damage him... *sweatdrop*... too much.

And boy do I look forward to your revenge.. *smirk*.

Rogue: Last of all I would like to assert one thing right now. Many people are going to learn of my rather sadistic personality but even I have limits. *looks squarely at Goku Mum*

No fat lady lemons!!! I draw the line there!!! I refuse!!! Even *I* can be squicked. Very little strikes me as terrifying but seeing Vegy with a fat woman in his arms... *shudders* *falls to knees* Please! Please!! Nooooo!! You can't do it!!! Not to us!! I can't take it!! I can't!! I swear!! *sobs into hands* ...it's toooo hoooorrribble....and I really mean that.... *peaks through fingers and can't help but smirk* Even after all the things I am willing to do..... *leaves the threat hanging*

Dark Serapha: *walks over to Rogue and hugs her tightly and soothingly*

Calm down, dear. We can do this! We will win against the evil Fat-Lady-Lemon of Doom! Only thing we have to do is pop out chapters like we did till now. *sighs and turns to readers* As you can see we've been posting very large chapters in very little amount of time. Though we have most of the story written already it takes us a lot of time to edit it and bring it into this lovely readable format. So please help us fight against Evil Mad Mum and the Lemon of Doom (Saiyan Secrets ML insider…) and encourage us by leaving lots of reviews!

Rogue: *sobs into angel's shoulder* But...but...I have tests coming!! ....I *hick* I just want the mean fat lady to go away!! It takes soooo much effort to do these chapters.... *glances up with perfectly dry eyes and then goes back to sobbing* ...I...I think I might need...a little more *sniff* encouragement... It's sooo hard... I might not be able to go on.... *sob*

Dark Serapha: *melts into puddle of goo*

Look at this! Isn't that heart wrenching? How can you stand there and read this and NOT review? REVIEW! For heavens sake, review!

And by the way: Was anyone able to tell who did Radditz and who did Jeice in this chapter..? *smirk* And with that we'll leave you till the next part where things hopefully will heat up quite a bit!

Rogue: *leans on supportive angel* *sob* ....yes... *still hiding face* Who did it? Whe... *sniff* When you review you can give your opinions...*sniff*

...Angel...I think I need a back rub to make me feel better....*tries to hide smirk* ...and lots of reviews....that would be good....And then.... You can do whatever you want to Vegy... *snicker*

Dark Serapha: *rubs hands in anticipation* Okay then.. lets go and do some serious molesting! Harr! Err.. and your back-rub, certainly. *turns and walks away with Rogue in tow

Rogue: *slinks along after rather uncertainly* *mumbles* ...err....uh....yeah....I hope the bribe was worth it...