Dragon Ball/Z/GT Fan Fiction ❯ In'lar-Anth - Through Darkest Destiny ❯ Reassignment ( Chapter 7 )

Authors: Rogue & DarkSerapha

Email: neko_jin_rogue@yahoo.com & DarkSerapha@gmx.de

Warnings for this chapter:

violence, cussing, references to rape

'…' = thoughts

Intro

Aura

If you are near to the dark
I will tell you 'bout the sun
you are here, no escape
from my visions of the world
you will cry all alone
but it does not mean a thing to me

Knowing the song I will sing
till the darkness comes to sleep
come to me, I will tell
'bout the secret of the sun
it's in you, not in me
but it does not mean a thing to you

The sun is in your eyes
the sun is in your ears
I hope you see the sun
someday in the darkness

The sun is in your eyes
the sun is in your ears
but you can't see the sun
ever in the darkness
it does not much matter to me

(Vocals by Emily Bindiger, performed by See-Saw, hack.sign-OST)

In'lar-Anth - Through Darkest Destiny

Chapter 7: Reassignment

Zarbon

I walked down the hallway with a preoccupied expression. My lord had *not* been pleased. I had only narrowly managed to defer his blame and anger from myself. I still was chilled by his threats. But I had gained something as well and once the Ice-jin dealt with the situation himself, which he showed every intention of doing, I might be able to gain from it again. For now I was blameless and unpunished which was what I wanted most. Passing the second bedroom I glanced at the door but did not stop.

So... The signs had begun. I had not known what they were or I might have seen it. It would have been nice to have my own chance to explore the possibilities. A small smile displaced the creases on my forehead as I continued on to the next quarters. I stepped in and the air was thick with the metallic scent of blood. My poor little red skinned beauty was still laying in his own blood in the centre of the room. Frieza had accepted my explanations and had dealt judgement. That last part was what made me so smug right now. I strode forward purposefully and crouched by him, rolling him gently and cradling his head so that I could see the tense yet languid expression on his face. Mine now.

"Wake up, my little rebel…"

Jeice

When I felt that the darkness was leaving me I tried to dig my nails in it, tried to hold it. I did not want to wake. But it was no use. I felt myself drift back to consciousness and to the seemingly never-ending pain. I gasped as I felt it. All my nerves had been teased to the max and were now burning raw and sore. My arm throbbed painfully. Someone not as used to pain as I was might have died to from the sheer shock. Lucky that I was a trained fighter, used to injuries. Yes. How very lucky. My thoughts were bitter. I dared not yet open my eyes, for the fear of what I might see. I could feel the cold metal tiles beneath my naked body and a cold sticky liquid all over me.

At least it was over now. I still lived. I dared not let myself remember what things I had said and done. I dared not remember how I had given myself up... how I had submitted... no. If I told myself that it had not happened it would not. Vegeta had done it. I knew now what happened to him two years ago. If he had been able to endure this I would too. I was strong.

I heard a voice that made my soul want to strip itself away from my body. My eyes fluttered open and I stared up in absolute horror. No! No! Leave me alone! I had to get away! I tried to pull away from the demon floating before me but my body came to life in agony and I could only whimper and twitch.

No... no! It's over... you broke me... now release me! It's over...

"No... let me go..."

Zarbon

I gathered him into my arms, his weak protests barely noticeable.

"My, my, Jeice. You are a mess, aren't you? I can't have that. It's up to me to remedy it, it seems. You are hardly up to the task." I stood, lifting him up with me and smiling at the sudden panic that came to light his eyes.

"I must get you properly groomed. You've been reassigned as of today. When we arrive at the battle ship you may bid your team farewell. You are being moved to the upper decks." He stared at me for a moment as I carried him into the bathing chamber, taking his time understanding just what that meant. Looking down at him extremely pleased, I held him tighter when he began to struggle again. Ah. He would still be fun and by now the water must have heated satisfactorily again. I ignored his protests as the door slid shut behind me.

***

Attention!

If you would like to know what happens between Zarbon and Jeice now you'll have to read the second hidden chapter. As announced in the last outro, only reviewers get access to this special treat for our readers.

Review, say that you want it, and give us your email-address and you'll get the link!

***

~ in the other bed-room ~

Vegeta

I dragged myself towards consciousness. Struggled for it. There was something wrong. There was something off. But I couldn't quite reach... It was so hard to wring myself from the dark heavy mire I floated in.

I started to panic. Why couldn't I pull free? Why was it so hard? I had to be alert. I had to be on guard. I couldn't do that while I was held here in this nothingness. Ruthlessly I clawed my way to the surface. My eyes opened slowly and it took a moment for me to free myself fully from that abyss. Finally my thoughts began to form together again as I forced my consciousness awake. I moved and my head began to throb but I pushed that discomfort away while I tried to figure out what was so wrong. Shifting I realized that I was naked, two blankets only partially covering me.

Mentally I cursed every deity I could name as one leering face appeared in my memory.

Jeice! Jeice had... And I had not been able to fight! And here I was now...

Humiliation and misery threatened to settle over me. How could I have...? I thrust it away and seized hold of the hatred and anger that quickly followed. I couldn't remember clearly. After my realization, I had frozen but now I moved again, trying to pull away from the warm body that was pressed against my back. I couldn't. He was wrapped around me, holding me firmly in his expansive embrace. I jerked. Expansive? It could not be Jeice…

No! No! My mind jumped to the only conclusion that presented itself.

Zarbon. I pulled away violently, wrenching against the arm that held me down, snarling and refusing to suffer that embrace a moment more. It almost did not register that the presence at my back was warm... not cold. Wait... That was not right...

I turned my throbbing head to look at my captor. I only saw random black spikes.

Who...?

Son... It was Son who was holding me. Fuck! Had... No. Flitting memories came up of... Jeice... pain and humiliation... and... Zarbon? Had Son… had he...

'Go to sleep, Vegeta. I will protect you.'

Oh fuck... I was confused and unsure and I hated not having control like that. I did what I would normally do when I was out of my element.

"Get the fuck off of me!!"

I fought.

Son Goku

Mmmh... Warm... In my sleep I curled up with a slight smile on my face, finding comfort in the feeling of a warm body pressed against mine.

And then I was most unpleasantly startled from deep dreamless sleep by a snarling and scratching fury right from my darkest nightmares that was attacking me. Before I knew what was happening I was being hurled down from something, hitting my head hard. Of course I was awake instantly, rubbing my sore head and whimpering slightly.

I staggered to my feet - and almost fell backwards again. Damn! That headache sure had a killing calibre! Finally I settled for kneeling beside the bed, nursing the impressive bump on the side of my head and trying to steady my eyes enough to actually see what had woken me as harsh as that.

My eyes focused on a tail that was bristling and puffed out almost thrice it's diameter. It swayed angrily and for a moment I simply stared, my eyes following the hypnotic movement as if glued to it. Then I noticed an infuriated snarling prince attached to that tail.

Vegeta's body was wound tightly into the two blankets as he crouched on the bunk, looking ready to kill. I just looked back pretty clueless, then yawned and stretched. From long experience I knew that the best way to deal with an angry Vegeta was to take the wind out of his sails.

"Good morning, Oujisama." The events of the last night came back to me and I cautiously checked him for injuries. He seemed to be okay as far as was visible, so I figured that it might be better not to mention anything until he asked.

Vegeta

I had freed myself and now waited for him to attack back, waiting to have to defend myself. But he just sat there dazedly. I blinked at his greeting.

What did he say? I decided that I had heard him correctly. He had used my proper title. I relaxed only marginally, trying now to force my brain to dig up what had happened.

I knew that Jeice had trapped me. He had drugged me so that I could not fight back. The coward! Snaking coward! I would find a way to kill him! I would never give in to the likes of him!

But where was he now and why was Son here? What had *happened*? I did remember Zarbon at some point as well... I finally decided that I must know. I could not afford such a gap in my memory. In a low growl I forced the words out.

"Why are you here?"

Son Goku

I blinked once or twice at the harsh voice then finished stretching and settled to look back at him. I felt pretty stiff from a night without *any* blankets as opposed to two, but I didn't really mind. All that counted was that I had kept my promise.

"Well... Zarbon told me to stay with you. He said I was to help you dress or something, but you didn't seem in the shape to do that, so I brought you to the bunk. As I had promised you I stayed and stood guard and that's why I'm here now. Must've fallen asleep sometime during the night though… " I sheepishly rubbed my head and then my stomach. I felt sick and it was probably the first time I could ever remember. Just thinking of the drugged food made me want to throw up. Another wave of headache hit me and I squeezed my eyes shut as I tried to dismiss it. Unluckily, a headache, unlike the pain from injuries, was a persistent pain, that refused to let itself be forgotten. My head throbbed and I groaned, massaging my temples.

Vegeta

He spoke so simply that my suspicions just couldn't stick to him in the face of his easy manner. It was strange and hard to accept but I found myself believing that he just was not capable of what I feared.

All right... Zarbon... I could remember that. He... Was that right?

"Did Zarbon take Jeice away?" I asked slowly, watching Son intently. Why would he do that? It did not make sense. He had said he had other interests. Again I found myself confused.

Son Goku

"Yes..." I winced, a ghostly memory of awful screams momentarily whispering through my cluttered mind.

"He was furious at Jeice… He took him by the neck and off somewhere else. I haven't seen either of them since." I didn't add my personal opinion of the red skinned alien but the curses would have sounded funny out of my mouth anyway. I still was not over what he had very nearly done to Vegeta and probably wouldn't be anytime soon! It was just one thing I could not forgive…

I clutched my head again as the next wave of headache hit home.

"Owww... fucking headache… fucking damn bastard... drugging the food, really now, how low can you stoop…"

Vegeta

I took this in calmly. Zarbon had been angry. He had stopped Jeice. I still didn't have a clue why. Had I misconstrued what he said?

Drugged the food... So Son had been affected as well... Why in the hell were we together then, while Zarbon took Jeice away? Unless...

Of course. It took a moment for my muddled brain to make the connection. I knew Zarbon too well. Better than I ever wished to.

Jeice had interfered. The fool had tried to manipulate the Repta-jin. I hmphed, feeling a shot of contented justice at the thought of just what Zarbon could have and would have done to him. The bastard had brought it upon himself. I allowed a very small quirk of one side of my mouth.

"Good." I muttered under my breath and then I crawled to the edge of the bunk to set my feet on the ground. Standing resolutely, I nearly fell. A wave of dizziness swirled over me making it hard to catch my balance. I sat back down again and slid my hand over my tail just as a precaution. It was fine, to my great relief.

Son Goku

I watched different emotions flicker over Vegeta's usually guarded face and the small smirk that settled there sure struck me as odd for someone who had just woken up after an attempted rape. There was another thing bothering me though...

"Why did Jeice drug both of us anyway? Or do you think he tried to drug the three of us to keep Zarbon and me out of his way?" But Zarbon had not seemed affected to me during our encounter on the bridge...

Vegeta

I took a deep breath with closed eyes, waiting for the vertigo to fade. It was not at all as bad as before. It would leave soon enough once I began to move around. I shook my head slowly, looking back to the other and making a derogative noise. Did he really not understand? I growled low at the whole situation. Mixed emotions flowed through me but I discarded the weaker ones for my pride and anger.

"Jeice is an over-achiever and he fucked up." I said gruffly. That was all I was willing to say on the matter. It was bad enough that he had witnessed it. My loss of control. My helplessness. Only certain ones had ever seen me so low and lived.

"He is paying for it." I said, adding a silent 'Dearly' at the end.

"I need a uniform." I said instead of following up the matter. I needed to get past this and back in control. I needed to get this substance out of my system.

Son Goku

I kept my gaze level as Vegeta moved around, dressing himself. I thought about what had happened last night. It had been terrible, true, but somehow I had a feeling that I missed out on something even graver.

Shaking my head I pondered about my thought from last night. If this had been meant to happen… had I changed the future by preventing this? I realized, that even if that was the case, I still could not have let it happen. How was I supposed to stand aside and allow something like that? No. I could only hope that it meant nothing.

I sighed deeply and watched Vegeta who was stretching and moving around, seemingly trying to get the drug out of his system. The mere thought of the last evening... of how broken and vulnerable he had looked... I watched him step over to a wall and activating the screen that was attached there. He quickly checked some things and then turned to face me.

"We going to land in a few hours. Since there's nothing else to do I am going to teach you some more about steering the ship - and the alphabet." The last was accompanied by a sneer but I did not mind. I knew it was only show. I could read him well enough to see that he was deeply affected by the events, troubled and uncertain as I had rarely seen him before.

Gladly I followed him to the command centre, pulling on my amour on the way. I still felt stiff, but when I wanted to use the hygiene facility first I found it occupied. Shrugging I turned and followed Vegeta over to the bridge.

Vegeta

We spent the remainder of the trip on the bridge where I remained mostly silent except for directing him and answering his many, many questions. I mainly had him go over everything I had already taught him, correcting him only when the need arose. It was time consuming and that was all I wanted. It was also as far from the two other aliens on the ship as I could get. I had checked for their whereabouts earlier.

As the time went on my mood stayed dark and I found it hard to be patient with Son. I found myself growing annoyed in time as I watched him, his tail wagging expressively. At the very least, he knew enough not to try and bring up the subject of a few hours ago again.

By the time we had neared the warship, the stuff in my body had worn off completely and I was itching to get away and burn off the horrid imagined residue that this trip had left upon me. I took over the controls and docked the ship almost wordlessly when we finally reached our destination.

In an attempt to distract myself I had begun to think too much about the Saiyajin next to me. Going over the last few days a number of things came back to mind that I had forgotten in the face of other, more urgent occurrences and I was once again determined that I would learn what he refused to tell me. Once the ship was landed and powering down, I stood and headed down the hallway, intent on getting off this claustrophobic trap.

Son Goku

Vegeta was silent the whole time till we arrived but I was used to that. It was normal that I had to drag everything out of him, and after his recent experiences I didn't even mind. I considered asking him some questions other than about the navigation system but his dark expression made me keep my mouth shut wisely. Instead we went over the same stuff again and again until I was sure that I could supervise a ship even in my sleep. At least that was something. Maybe I could find a way to let someone else set the course to Namek, if all else failed and the need arose...

Then we finally arrived at the mother-ship and I looked at the approaching bulky shape with mixed feelings. This purge had been a disaster in every meaning of the word, though not in the slightest in the way I had possibly imagined it to be, and I was very happy to be able to get away from this ship and it's other occupants, sans Vegeta. I followed him as he stalked away from the command centre as soon as we had docked onto the mother ship.

~ elsewhere on the ship ~

Zarbon

I looked in the mirror as I braided my hair and tossed it over my shoulder. I took a deep satisfied breath and let out a sigh, turning and approaching the dusky figure who was propped against the corner of the warm damp bathing chamber. He was bruised and his left arm still hung relatively limp, even after the treatment. His skin was rather pale for his dark colouring, probably from loss of blood. He would need a few hours in the regen-tank to get rid of his many injuries, but he was clean and best of all he was sufficiently meek, keeping his eyes averted as I looked him over.

"It's about time to go. You can hear the change in the engines, can't you? We are landing." I dropped a uniform onto him and strode away to finish dressing. I was in the best spirits I'd been in in quite a while. I was finished and just about to go and retrieve him when he appeared, dressed and moving rather slowly and carefully into the room. Good. I would have had to give him a short lesson on keeping me waiting if he hadn't. It had been a very busy day for him. I did not know if he could take anymore. I smiled brightly and led him out of the room just as the engines shut down completely.

Jeice

Inwardly I had cried a thousand tears. But my cheeks had stayed dry because he didn't like me sulking. Inwardly I felt numb and dead, but earlier I had screamed again and again until my throat was raw and bleeding. Because he wanted me to. My life had become a nightmare over the last few hours and I knew that it would stay that way for a very long time now. As soon as I realized the truth I might have killed myself the instant he left me out of his ever seeing eyes, but he was careful not to leave me in any position where I might manage that. I could not feel most of my body anymore. He had patched me up yet again after he was finished so that I was at least able to walk, but only barely so. I knew that it had been so close. How I wished he would have let me die.

And still he smiled at me and patted my head. He named me affectionately and treated me with utmost care after he had nearly torn me in two, actually granting me the gift of release after the things he had inflicted on me had left me in a disastrous state. Yes, he knew now and he loved his little new toy. And I... had accepted his tainted gifts. I was chained to him now... not physically but with invisible chains that were impossible to break. It was almost more than I could bear. If only I had known when I started all this...

I walked behind him when he told me to, my eyes unseeing, moving mechanically. I was too smart to actually hope that anything would change once we were on the mother-ship. It could only get worse.

Vegeta

I stalked down the corridor but just as the hatch came into view, so did Zarbon. The expression on his face made me uneasy and tense. It was too familiar. But it was not directed at me. When he saw me it changed to a warm greeting that did not make me any more comfortable. I gathered my pride and defences and regarded him blandly. I would not show anymore weakness. I refused to. I had had enough.

My eyes shifted to the figure that followed a number of steps behind him. Jeice. My eyes narrowed and I took in the way he walked, a sharp limp affecting him though he tried to hide it. His left arm hung at his side unnaturally and his face sported a dark purple bruise that spread from his cheek down one side of his throat. The rest was hidden beneath his uniform. But I knew. I knew exactly. And I revelled wickedly in the knowledge of what he had endured. He had thought that he could dominate me. He was just beginning to see what was possible. He had been nothing. I had experienced more than he would have done to me. If I had not been drugged it would have been easier to withstand and fight. He must realize that now.

He kept his head lowered though when he saw us he straightened slightly. His glassy red eyes locked on my hard ones and I could see thoughts and humiliation flit across them. Mine narrowed and I cocked my head slightly, an acknowledgement that he was worth just what he had been through. Then Zarbon spoke lightly to me and my attention snapped back to him. His eyes held a dancing amusement and I hardened again.

Son Goku

We met with Zarbon and Jeice at the hatch. Zarbon greeted us merrily - he seemed to be in the best mood. I didn't really register though - I was too busy watching Vegeta and Jeice. The two faced each other, both almost the same height, one bronze and auburn-black, one deep red and creamy white. So different and yet...

It felt as if some sort of unspoken communication was passing between them. I saw the smug smirk on Vegeta's face and it brought to my attention the state Jeice was in. His whole body spoke of pain. I could see that his arm must be broken. He could barely hold himself upright. No doubt this was the punishment for what he had been trying to do with Vegeta. He deserved every bit of it! Who'd have thought that Zarbon would be the dealer of that justice…

A little pain would not kill him and he would simply use the regen-tanks and be as good as new in no time. It wasn't fair. He would simply go on as if nothing happened. I just hoped that he would be punished further!

Zarbon

It was interesting to see the prince after what had almost happened. It seemed that the near experience had helped to give him back his self assurance somehow. The royal's ways were so interesting. Adversity only seemed to bring out the best in him. He gave my new favourite a look that almost was a commendation. The little Saiyajin certainly had a mean streak. But then again, he had to. I spoke up.

"Frieza wishes to see you at your earliest convenience, prince Vegeta. He informed me when I spoke to him last." I took in both the prince and his body guard with a nod as I spoke. Frieza had been intent upon meeting this bodyguard of the prince's. I could see that Vegeta understood.

"I would accompany you but..." I turned only half way to Jeice with my wide smile.

"I must acquaint Jeice with the upper decks." Looking back to Vegeta, I spoke contentedly.

"He has been reassigned due to... defiance of duty and orders. It has been an enlightening trip. We must do it again sometime, Vegeta. Good bye, Son Goku. See you both later." I would have purred, had I been able to. Then I opened the hatch and made my way out and through the bustling deck.

Vegeta

At the mention of Frieza my smirk turned less smug. Why did the lizard want to see me? I did not want to deal with him. I was too tense as it was. I had hoped to have a relaxing brawl in the training centre to ease my nerves but now I would have to put it off. I nodded coldly to Zarbon and then he was gone. My eyes went to Jeice again who merely followed him silently. He looked pale. I finally let a full smirk form on my lips.

"Farewell, Jeice." I remarked in a light tone and I exited the hatch as well, turning in another direction and making my way into the mother ship, Son following along behind me.

Son Goku

My gaze lingered for a moment on Jeice who was slowly following Zarbon. His head was downcast and he did not look at anyone anymore. He looked so different from when I had last seen him that I could not help but wonder as I followed Vegeta away from the others.

"What's up with Jeice?" Vegeta did not show any sign of emotion at the mention of the name yet I inwardly cursed myself for my curiosity. Why did I have to bring the topic up again? But now it was too late. Might as well pull through with it.

"It seems Zarbon gave him quite a beating, but what did he mean with reassignment?"

Vegeta

I didn't look back as I walked. I wondered what the hell was wrong with this man. He was an idiot. How could he be so clueless? If he could not figure it out himself I saw no reason to hold his hand through it. It was *not* the same thing as flying a ship.

"It is of no importance. It is Zarbon's business now, not yours." I said as I headed away through the maze of corridors, considering what was coming. This development was not good. What was it about and why had Frieza ordered Son along as well? I had a bad feeling. Another thought occurred to me. He had said he hated Frieza and that he did not wish to meet him... again. What trouble would he cause in the lizard's presence? I spoke over my shoulder to Son.

"Will Frieza recognize you?" I demanded to know sharply.

Son Goku

"What??" His blunt question caught me completely off-guard and I had to think twice before I remembered just where and precisely when I was.

"No. He has never yet seen my face." I answered a bit too quickly, still caught in my initial shock. Damn! I had hoped that Zarbon had only ordered him to the lizard but it seemed that I was thrown in with the package.

"Do you mean I'm supposed to see him too? I don't want to see him!" I started to panic. Vegeta and the others were bad enough, but beside the danger that he would recognize me - not now, but in the future - I was not sure whether I could control myself when it came to the tyrant.

Vegeta

I thought about what he said suspiciously. I wished that I knew what he was hiding. I needed to know what it was. To know whether he was part of a rebellion or if this was merely more of his personal brew of psychosis.

Not *yet* seen his face. What the hell did that imply?

"If he wishes your presence you *will* comply. He will not accept less. You will remember your promise and you will keep silent unless you are spoken directly to. Do you understand that? I will not be held responsible if you do something stupid." I told him without pause.

"If you cannot answer any questions you better be prepared to lie well or take the consequences. I will not back you up." I warned as I led to the upper decks and Frieza's quarters where he held all his meetings.

Son Goku

I slunk behind Vegeta unhappily. The mental lists of persons I should not have met was just about to grow yet another entry. Zarbon was no problem, as far as I remembered I never actually met him. My meeting with Jeice had been a short and heated battle - it might yet pass unnoticed. But Frieza... and of course Vegeta. Those were real problems.

In my heart I had the icy fear that I was fooling myself. That what I had done had already altered the time-line. I had intervened too much. But still a small hope was left and I buried my sorrow and worries beneath it, hoping against better knowledge that it wasn't too late and that the fact that I had not yet heard anything from my family only meant that they didn't miss me yet and not that they did not exist anymore...

What solace! I snickered bitterly and caught myself an odd look from Vegeta. I didn't mind letting him see my misery.

'We're off to see the Ice-jin... and I am not merry at all.'

Vegeta

I was still out of sorts and this only made me more tense. Son was *not* good at pretences. He may have been able to keep his motives hidden but I could see that he had them from the very beginning. Frieza was no fool...

But there was nothing to be done. I had brought this upon myself. I would have to deal with the consequences.

As usual my tactical mind rushed over all the information it had gathered about the man behind me. Most of it still did not make sense. I fit it together as well as I could. The circumstances of a few hours ago came back to me. Over the last hours my memory had started to clear a bit. One thing stood out. I slowed my pace just a bit, thinking on it. I had been incapable of protecting myself. I had been completely...

He made a strange noise behind me and I glanced back. He looked as if he was walking to his own execution. How right he might be. He did not seem to understand anything else but he seemed to know the lizard so well. What were his dealings with Frieza?

I might not know those motives but I would know at least one other.

"Earlier..." I paused but then continued in a quiet, clipped voice. I was never good at tact. Not when it was not absolutely necessary.

"Why were you... in my bunk?" There. I asked the one thing that was burning in my mind ever since I had awoken. He had vowed to protect me and I had found myself in his arms after being so...

Just what were his intentions? If he thought that he could lay claim just like...

Son Goku

I kept telling myself that it would all be all right somehow... maybe Gohan would find a way to correct all of this... it would be okay, it must be okay somehow. I dared not think anything else. For the alternative was just too horrible to even voice it in my mind.

Having been deep in my thoughts I was stirred by the unusual strain in Vegeta's voice as he walked in front of me. Raising my head I looked at his back, his muscles were visibly tensed. I was not sure why, but somehow this question seemed to bother him. Maybe it was because I had defied him yet again. I knew very well how he despised to be touched, let alone being… well... snuggled or whatever. I had not thought about it earlier, all that had been on my mind was that he was cold and that he needed protection and that this had been the only way I could think off. I could only tell him the truth and hope that he was not mad at me for intruding into his personal sphere. I knew how intimidating this could be. I had not liked it when Zarbon had done so repeatedly. That man.. he was giving me the creeps. After all that had happened I had a very dark foreboding considering him. His intentions… were not honourable…

"I... I'm sorry. I know I shouldn't have bothered you, but... you were cold and there were no more blankets and that was the only way I could think off to warm you up." I knew I was blabbering and shut my mouth, head hanging. I just hoped he wouldn't get mad at me again. Kami knew that his older self had nearly tried to stomp me into the ground for daring so much as try a handshake.

Vegeta

He... Could he possibly be that dense? Had it really not occurred to him?

The night on Asora-sei when he had done such a lewd thing... Just handing me his tail and yet seeming to not have meant it. He gave such mixed signals. He just had wanted to keep me warm? Could I possibly believe him? Perhaps if he were like any other Saiyajin I could. But he had not shown the respect to me that any other would. He stood up to me as if he thought he could debate. But he had spoken with respect when I woke...

I reminded myself that it was not so uncommon for Saiyajin to sleep together for warmth. My subjects had always looked out for me on this ship over the years up until just recently. I was still not sure. I would continue to watch him. His actions were what exposed him for who he was. Still... I couldn't help feeling at least that much more relaxed. He had not done anything when he had had the chance and he had had a very good opportunity thanks to Jeice. I continued on silently.

Son Goku

He walked on silently, not replying to my revelation. I couldn't decipher whether he was angry or not. I decided to risk it.

"You're not angry at me, are you? I really didn't' mean anything... I was just trying to..."

Yes. Trying to do what? Protect him? Yes. And I should say that if I had a death wish. He had never taken anything lightly that implied that he could not watch out for himself. Impress him? Probably. Maybe, deep inside, I had hoped that he would understand that I cared for him. He was Vegeta, no matter what time and age and I could not forget the many years we had spent side by side nor the many times he had come to my help. And I could not forget, despite everything, my respect for him, for his strength, his pride…

Vegeta

I turned my head slightly, not quite looking back at him but considering just what he asked. He was worried about my approval? Hn. He was showing me a much improved attitude today. Was it because of what had happened? What he had witnessed? It had to be. That maybe he finally understood just what was at stake when it came to dealings on board this ship. He must understand how it was to stand alone now. Perhaps he had realized that there was an advantage to standing with me rather than on his own. I could accept that. If I could rely on him now then I could accept an unspoken truce.

"No. I am not... Just remember your place." I said quietly to him, keeping my voice steady and calm. As long as he did not call too much attention to himself things would work out.

"Just do not think you can act so... casual under normal circumstances."

Son Goku

His word relieved and confused me at the same time. He did not look at me after that again, but kept walking and I followed. Finally we reached a section of the ship that I had never seen before. The corridor was laid out with lush carpets. The metal walls did not hum like they used to in the lesser decks. It was almost eerily quit here. As if each room was sound-proofed for some unknown reason. Even our steps were barely audible. We passed at least two guard-posts were Vegeta was recognized and let through immediately. It seemed Frieza was really keen on seeing us. This was not good…

Finally we reached a huge set of double doors. It was blinding white and in the shape of a semi circle and outlining it were strange insignias that I had never seen before. Vegeta stopped right in front of the doors and I hurried to stand behind him. This was it. We would see the Ice-lord now.

Vegeta

We finally reached the upper decks, the corridors were larger here and carpeted and there were double doors lining them. It was much more extravagant than the rest of the ship. We approached Frieza's chambers, which stood out from the others ornately, and I pressed the com-button to signal our arrival. We had to wait a few moments until a silky voice invited us in. Entering with a calm exterior, I strode forward, stopping a respectful distance away from where the alien stood with his back to us. He was looking out of a huge window onto the dark recesses of space. Stars and planets could be seen in the distance but it was mostly just black. Just barely visible in the distance was Vegeta-sei. It was still quite a ways away though it was visible for anyone who knew the red planet.

I waited for his pleasure. It irked me that I would be forced to wait on him though if I had been late it probably would have been very unpleasant for me. I carefully kept my face neutral, I knew he could probably see us in the reflection of the glass. Hopefully Son did the same. I was not going to look to see.

Frieza

I stood inside my spacious chambers, surrounded by all the deceitful, unapparent luxury money and power could buy in this universe, looking out on my domain. The view was beautiful and yet somehow it was flawed. I had thought that I had done away with any questioning of my rule. It seemed that I had to reassert my power.

My little princeling arrived. I had known he would. I had been informed the moment that the small ship had approached. I let him wait. I had thought that he understood how things were by now. Well. He was still young, still headstrong and foolish.

This other... Now he was intriguing.

At length, I called them in and I watched them stand, waiting. Good. Wait.

I examined them both in turn. The prince had come along nicely. He was not as bulky as most of the Saiyajin but he had that uncommon strength that his race was so well known for. And he was so strong willed. I had watched him throughout the years. He had continued to grow in strength and self assurance despite all he had experienced. I was very impressed. He had even survived Zarbon intact and stronger than before. That had been quite an experiment. I was pleased with what I saw now. The other...

Son Goku

Finally we were summoned inside Frieza's spacious quarters. I had to admit that I was impressed. The whole room was laid out with icy white carpets that must be very hard to keep clean. The room was seated in the dome of the disc-shaped ship, and more than half of it's walls and floor were transparent. You could even see the stars float by. The ship was moving with medium speed at the moment. Far away a red spot stood out from the surrounding space, but due to inexperience I could not tell whether we moved towards it or away from it.

The changeling stood still as a statue in front of the huge panorama window. I stopped two steps behind Vegeta. I could only see the prince's back but he seemed tense and nervous to me. I stared openly at Frieza, unable to take my eyes of the one whom I had fought so many years ago.

The one who had killed so many… had brought so much pain... had killed Vegeta. And yet here he was, unharmed, still alive and ready to commit his dastardly deeds. I wanted to take him out right here and now, where he stood. I felt the urge to reduce him to a pile of interstellar dust just to prevent all those things from happening, And yet I was powerless, despite the fact that I was able to crush him single-handedly. It was the greatest test for my patience I had ever endured as I tried to control the hate that must blaze from my eyes.

Frieza

The Saiyajin standing behind him... He was maybe half a head taller than the prince and he stared at me with the most interesting expression.

'Well, well, my renegade Saiyajin. Just what are you doing here?' I smiled coyly at his reflection. He was not truly much larger than the pretty prince and he had a charm all to his own. How muscular he was. And he had come such a long way. My, my, just what had he come for? And the prince thought to ally himself with this mysterious individual. How droll. My dear prince was not the sort to make light decisions. I sighed lightly to myself. It seemed that things would have to come along a bit sooner than anticipated. I had not completely finished with my plans but that was alright. I was not about to allow a rebellion and I was not going to miss out on my fun either. I had invested too much time to lose it now. I turned slowly, looking at them both with that small smile.

"I heard that there were a few complications on the purge. Were there any problems? It did not get too out of hand I hope." I questioned easily.

Vegeta

The longer the lizard made us wait the more on edge I became though I kept it hidden. I could not be impatient when it came to Frieza. He always did it this way as if testing just how much I would be able to stand. Proving that he was the one who dictated how the meeting would go. I hated it. It would not be this way forever. I would not accept it. Saiyajin would rule themselves again and I would take my rightful place. I was the prince of my nation! I would not tolerate his rule forever. The Saiyajin were more noble than that. I would not cater to the likes of... my thoughts were cut off when the alien began to speak. I drew up straight and proud as he faced us.

"There were no difficulties. The matter was dealt with and the planet was delivered as ordered." I informed him. He knew this already, of course. I was sure that Zarbon had informed him. I just wondered if he had implied anything else in his question. The look that the Ice-jin gave us both made me almost want to shiver. There was something odd in his eyes. He looked Son over intently and then his eyes came back to me. I waited for whatever else he was going to ask. I was sure that he had called me for some reason other than the purge.

Son Goku

My gaze never wavered from Frieza. I dared not look away. I knew from experience how sneaky the bastard was and somehow I kept expecting an attack. But he simply turned and faced Vegeta, ignoring me completely save a short glance. I stood behind the prince, hands folded behind my back, trying to stay as calm as possible. I had never forgotten just what Frieza had done. Somehow the small white creature still freaked me out. There was something about him, something… dark and... wrong. As if he was twisted inside himself.

Frieza

Ah. The prince was so proud and stiff. He held himself just like his father. I smiled at it. The monkey behind him was very different, he looked openly at me, never blinking, but not with the regal pride Vegeta showed. That was strange. I had found that very few besides the prince could look me in the eye. They knew all too well what I was capable of. It was an endearing quality in the dear prince. He watched me coldly and I stepped nearer to him.

"I knew if anyone could handle it, it would be my little princeling." I said with confidence, letting my voice lower conspiratorially. His eyes narrowed and I knew that he despised the title I gave him. But that was what he was and he knew it. I looked him over. He had come away from the trip in quite good condition, considering what Zarbon told me. That filthy little red orphan should be glad that I had not chosen to deal with his impudence myself. I knew that Zarbon would handle the situation. He always did. After all, I had taught him to. My eyes glittered as I now turned to look at the other. I still spoke to my little Saiyajin though.

"You've been getting a lot of attention lately, or so I've heard. So much that you now have a bodyguard? It is not like you to rely upon the strength of others. I am confused. It hasn't been too strenuous travelling with me, has it, princeling?" I questioned silkily, my eyes never leaving the nervous Saiyajin before me whose tail snapped back and forth behind him. This one who had such an interesting story behind him as well.

Son Goku

My tail lashed nervously behind me. I knew it but couldn't do much about it. I just had no control over the damn thing. It gave me the creeps as I felt Frieza's eyes wander over me. Two thoughts were struggling in my chest: one told me to step forward and crush the ugly alien and rid the universe of a pest and the other wanted me to stand back and draw no attention and back down for the sake of the timeline. It was maddening. The result was that my body tensed and my tail jerked even harsher and I glared at the alien before I remembered not to and lowered my gaze.

Frieza

A strange intensity crossed the bodyguards eyes and I looked closer at him, until he finally averted his gaze.

"I have heard some interesting things about this new bodyguard. Is it true that he is an unknown soldier? Why in the world would the prince of Saiyajin take on an unknown protector?" I questioned thoughtfully as if to myself. It was so amusing to watch them try to scheme. I had dealt with all sorts of little schemes as I conquered the galaxy. But I had thought that I had secured this monkey race. I should have known. They had never been very… reliable and they had proven this time after time. Their impudence was really maddening. They were too hard to tame into obedience no matter how useful or fascinating they could be. Oh well. I would take care of that. Yet it could not be a true conspiracy. I had already dealt of that. The Ou was certainly not the source of it. That left few options. Perhaps the little princeling was less comfortable with his station than he gave show to. That could be redeemed.

It did not matter. Whatever they had planned. Nothing would come of it. I had my own plans. And I always got what I wanted.

Vegeta

That hissing effeminate voice made my spine tingle. I hated the lizard. How could my father have ever made a treaty with him? I would have fought him to the last man if I had to. I hated how he was so arrogant and smug. And I knew what he implied with his comments. I was not weak! I stood behind no one's strength!

Damn Son! I knew he would bring me undue attention. Now I looked weak in Frieza's eyes. Tensing, I knew I had to do something to draw his attention away. I took an instant to answer while I thought fast.

"He is worthy. It is hard to find strong opponents that might come close to matching my training. That is all he is." I stated regally with an air of unconcern.

"He was measured after he was found wounded and I chose to have him accompany me. He has no memory previous to whatever happened to him on the surface. No life to speak of." I explained matter-of-factly, showing that it was not truly important anyway.

"He is not the brightest creature but he is loyal and he has good training." There. Enough truth in the lie that it could be researched and found firm. Just a new training partner that can test me better than Radditz or Nappa. That was acceptable, surely. I kept a confident face as the lizard turned to look at me again.

Son Goku

Clenching my teeth it was all I could do to keep myself from showing the seething inside me. They were talking about me as if I was nothing, a chair or a table, some kind of furniture that could be treated however they wanted. Frieza was bad enough but the casual air with which Vegeta was speaking about me made me absolutely want to scream. Those two dearly matched each other! For a moment I forgot my hate towards the lizard and smiled grimly. Both so very arrogant and smug. They had more in common then they knew!

But then my hard gaze softened. No. It was unfair to compare Vegeta to the tyrant who would kill him. Sure, the prince was proud and arrogant but he had entirely different reasons for it than the changeling. He had worked hard to achieve his status and he had never been treated kindly. He had never given in despite the hard life he had had here. And he needed to be like he was. I had long ago realized Vegeta's attitude as the protection that it was against the harsh realities of his life. And now I finally started to get a hint just what had made him what he was.

Frieza

My smile widened as Vegeta spoke up.

'My little prince, surely you think more of me than that! Lying for the likes of him. Burying yourself even deeper. I might have been inclined to believe that you had been ignorant but now... Now I will have to teach you just what it means to defy me. You think you can stand against me? I have already taken care of things and I will take care of you as well. This other one... I think that I might do as my second sooo wishes. His interest in him was obvious...'

"Really... Well then. I'm sure your judgement has been sound." I said with amusement. I dismissed the problem immediately. It was no problem at all. I changed the subject smoothly.

"How old are you, princeling? You have been with me for a very long time and you have risen well. I fear that I have neglected your abilities. I have been impressed by how well you have done. You are passed twenty, aren't you?" I queried with that same smile in place. The sensors in my room would show me what I wished to know soon enough but I wanted to know now.

Vegeta

I did not like the look he was giving me at all. He knew! No! He couldn't know. He was just trying to unnerve me. He was just trying to make me show uncertainty. I was not weak! I was not unsure!

His question took me by surprise. How old was I? For an instant I was at a loss. The years had been long. For a moment I really did not have an answer. I had to calculate swiftly before I could answer.

"I am twenty-two, my lord." I informed him still unsure as to why it was significant. And what did he mean by neglecting me? This was entirely too much attention. I did not want him to pay any attention to me.

Son Goku

Finally the talk shifted from me as a subject to other matters. I sighed in relief and unclenched my fists. The next question let me perk up. I hadn't known till now how old the Vegeta of this time really was.

Twenty-two. Vegeta had always been quite a bit older than me. It was funny to know that now he was younger, if only by a few years of body-age. I wondered if there was a special reason for Frieza's question. The lizard was not one for small talk. Suspicion grew inside me and I raised my head again to narrow my eyes at the changeling. He had an unreadable expression on his face. Just what was he playing at? Just what was going on here?

Frieza

Yes. The right age. The right timing. I just hoped that the presence of this other had not complicated things. .

"I have made arrangements for you to move to the higher decks. You have served well over the years and I believe you have turned out quite nicely. A... formidable... warrior. What do you say to that, princeling?" I asked him. He tensed. Just barely but enough that I saw it. Did he realize just what that meant? He had to. He had been around much too long to not know. 'Yes, my little prince. Time to move up in the world. It will be such a treat to have you join your new ranks.'

Vegeta

A shaft of ice drilled it's way into my intestines.

'Oh... Did... Did he...?' It took all my control not to react to that. *Moving* to the upper decks? Just... Forcing the horrible foreboding away my mind sped as fast as it ever had. I had only ever been here on the upper decks when Frieza called me... and with Zarbon. The separation was declared just in the name alone. Bitter bile rose in my throat. Zarbon had said that he was moving Jeice to the upper decks. Jeice who had been 'reassigned'. And now...

I held myself perfectly still. My fate was suddenly blackened. I no longer had to worry about Son drawing me undue attention. It would not matter. Feeling numb I latched upon the first thing that leapt to mind. I did not wish to be alone. There was always safety in numbers. That was part of our way of life. Always stick with the pack. I had such a desperate need to not be alone. I swallowed so that my voice would not rasp.

"I... would require another set of quarters for my training associates. It would be inconvenient to have to travel to the lower decks to retrieve them whenever I go to train." I managed to say, not caring what the lizard thought of my request, and a request it was. Nothing I ever wanted could be more than a request now. I was certain that it would be denied.

Son Goku

My gaze wandered between the Ice-lord and the prince who were staring at each other. Vegeta had paled suddenly and I could see that his hands had just clenched into fists at his sides. Frowning I shifted my gaze to Frieza who smiled a wicked smile and looked very smug. What was going on here? What did I miss? If I had understood right Vegeta had just been promoted. Surely being called to the upper decks meant that his rank had risen, didn't it? Didn't it?

Then why did he look as if he had just heard his death sentence?

I swallowed audibly as I felt something grow in my stomach - a tight knot of anxious anticipation. Something very bad was about to happen. I had thought that what Jeice had been trying to do was bad but suddenly I had the dark foreboding that this was nothing compared to what was yet to come…

Frieza

Hmmm... The prince was so very smart and his question was so very, wonderfully, satisfying. It was almost perfect. Afraid, little prince? I nodded graciously. His cohorts would gain him little comfort and no protection. It would be nice to have more monkeys around for amusement. They were so very sought after... and would be so very rare soon. None of them held the promise that this prince did though.

"Of course you will. I will see to it. You are dismissed." I stepped back and was about to turn away when the prince shifted slightly. I was surprised.

"Yes, princeling?"

Vegeta

It was granted. I couldn't believe it. Why had he given that to me? Was it because it did not matter? Was it such a worthless detail? I suddenly did not feel like such a formidable warrior as he had said. I did not feel at all capable. But I could not let it show. I could not ever show such weakness. I stood straight and stiff and proud. He dismissed us and I did not move. Instead I stayed where I was.

I wanted... I did not know what his reaction would be. My position was suddenly so unsteady...if existent at all. He turned back to me questioningly. I was hesitant at first but shoved it away. I could not show weakness.

"My lord. I wish to know when I might see my planet again... I did not have as much time as I had wished the last time." I said finally.

Frieza

Hmmm... he surely had courage to keep bothering me. I shook my head slowly with a show of empathic pity.

"Yes. I know. It was unfortunate." I paused before continuing.

"I'm sorry, my princeling, for cutting short your stay. We are now heading back toward Vegeta-sei. I will consider it when we come within a reasonable distance of it but I cannot promise you anything. Our errand will not take very long. It will be the last time we are in this sector for a long time." I informed him with a smirk. Too bad for the prince, he would most likely not enjoy the next sight he had of his precious planet.

"You should go and rest from your flight." I suggested and turned away again. This time the prince turned and left.

Son Goku

Vegeta's request was only understandable but Frieza's answer stroke me as odd. I blinked, considering what he had said. Did I only imagine this or was that really an implication... no... or...Maybe I was just imagining things. But I knew that it would happen eventually… I swallowed hard and squeezed my eyes shut. I could not imagine just standing aside and watching this happen. I just couldn't… And yet I would have too.

Then we were dismissed and Vegeta turned on his heel, seemingly anxious to get out of Frieza's presence. I followed him, throwing one last glance at the lizard lord who had turned again to stare out into the blackness of space. My loathing flamed hot. He should pay for this! He WOULD pay for this!

Vegeta

Something in the way Frieza answered seemed strange but he had not denied that request either. I was confused. Could I possibly... have mistaken something? I did not wait to think on it though. I had already been dismissed once. I would not make him dismiss me again. I backed away politely and then turned swiftly and left the room. Once outside the chamber I stood in the hallway, gathering myself again. I was so very tense now. Much more than before this new information. Moving to the upper decks? Only certain individuals and soldiers existed on the upper decks. Only a number of specific officers. Zarbon… Captain Ginyu, Dodoria… just to name a few. But there were more than just officers who resided along these sprawling corridors. It was something that could be renowned or very unwanted as well. And it was not clear at all just how I should view it. I wanted to get off of these floors. I needed to seriously relax. I wanted to take my mind off this in anyway possible. I jerked into movement again and began making my way back down to the lower levels. Perhaps this was the perfect opportunity to test the baka at my back. I could work out my frustrations and finally get some answers at the same time. I would find out just how strong he was and it would be a good distraction as well. Maybe it would clear up a few things.

Son Goku

We were obviously leaving the upper decks, despite the fact that Vegeta had just been assigned here. Frieza's audience room was at the very beginning of those quarters and we weren't too far from the lower decks yet. It was only a short walk. I trailed behind Vegeta, again not knowing where we were going. This was getting an annoying habit and fast. I pondered whether to risk it again and ask him. He seemed to be deep in thought, not looking happy at all. That still puzzled me. What was so bad about Frieza's news? Maybe I could ask him that.

"Vegeta-sama... aren't you glad about having been promoted?" I asked tentatively, deciding that the best way to get an answer was probably to play the part he wanted me to play..

Vegeta

"Baka!" At his tentative question I turned and looked back at him before closing my eyes in irritation.

"You have no brain at all do you?" Did he truly know nothing?! He kept hinting at some hidden intelligence, some agenda of his own but then he always seemed to project an innocence that was not only confusing but wholly aggravating on top of it all. I fairly growled under my breath and wrapped my tail tighter around my waist, turning to keep walking instead of waiting for him to answer.

"Come!"

Son Goku

I was confused at his harsh reply. What had I done now? He was just as mysterious to me as his older counterpart. He almost gave the impression as if this was something really bad... I just wondered what it could be...

I clenched my fists at the insult but then I smiled inwardly.

Vegeta... God... I even missed his insults...

I dismissed the odd thought and followed him without questions, though I was curious as where he would lead me.

Vegeta

I went straight to the training facility and as I went I turned my attention to the man behind me rather than continuing to brood on other things. I was adamant that I would at least match the warrior this time! I would... Shit! I realized that Frieza was obviously keeping an eye on me. If... if this fight came out like the one before... I grimaced at the unpleasantness that it would bring and changed directions, heading toward the private training halls for the higher ranking soldiers. Normally all the warriors trained in the commons where they could find hundreds of other partners and test their skills. The officer's arena should be fairly empty. I needed to feel out this new partner of mine before I was shamed in front of the whole ship. I could not let that happen. Not only that, if I were going to possibly even consider relying on him along with Radditz I had to see where we stood with one another. I couldn't believe that he was *that* much stronger than I but... Damn it! I would deal with him! I would! Right now, I would be able to feel him out. I understood all too well how it was played but he seemed not to have a clue. I would see if that was true. Whether he was taunting and playing with me or if he really was as naive and harmless as he seemed.

We stepped into a set of smaller oval arenas, located at a level slightly below the upper decks. These were the senior officer's private areas. I glanced around finding it satisfactorily empty and much more enclosed, partially private. I chose one at the far side and took up a stance.

Son Goku

First I thought we were going back to the training facility we had been to two days prior. But then he changed directions and soon I was all lost. I thoughtfully stared at his broad shoulders over the narrow waist.

If only I could read his mind... I felt that something boiled within him, but what it was I only could take guesses at. Suddenly I had to think of home and I realized that I did miss my sons... my home... my lovely granddaughter, Pan... and I... yes, I missed MY Vegeta... who had despite everything been something steady in my life, something I could count on like rain and sun. Our last encounter stood clearly before my eyes, how he had taunted me, his eyes, so cold and lifeless. It would not have been so bad if I had not been able to remember a time when those eyes were different. He had claimed to hate me for so many years and it had taken so long until it slowly faded into something else... only after the fusion… and just when I thought that he had changed... he had stepped back and it all went downhill from there. Almost as if a switch had been moved... he had been worse than ever before. It had become so hard to even speak to him and he would not endure my company any longer than absolutely necessary. It had hurt me so much... still did… but he had not cared. It did not matter to him. I just could not understand...

We stepped into a smaller arena. This one seemed more secluded than the other. No one else was around. I looked around me and saw him fall into his usual fighting stance. My thoughts were still grave but the prospect of a spar managed to cheer me up. If it was a spar he wanted I was glad to give it to him.

Vegeta

I decided to skip the warm up. I powered up to my maximum, which I hadn't used on him yet, I had come close but not quite, and launched at the imbecile before he had his guard up completely. I intended to draw him out this time. Not the other way around. I was one of the strongest. I was in control here. No matter what else, I was the prince of Saiyajin and he was my subject. I had been hard-pressed to make him see that before. I would not accept less now. Not now that I might suddenly be in need of loyal support and, damn Radditz, he was not strong enough no matter how loyal... He would never last on the upper decks... maybe it had been a mistake to get him into this. I would really have to find out just how well this Son Goku could play.

Son Goku

I could feel his eyes on me as he glared at me. I didn't even know what it was this time - but I was used to it. He always had been mad at me for some reason - first because I refused to join him, then because I was stronger then him, then because... oh whatever... probably because I simply existed. And later he had been mad at me... because of something that I… couldn't quite explain, but somehow felt... responsible for… That's why I had felt so odd towards him, almost guilty... but I had never known what it was. And now his younger self was mad at me too. No big change really - but it still made me feel bad. I had always just wanted him to trust me...

I cautiously powered up and fell into my usual fighting stance. But before I even had had time to fully prepare he was already slamming into me. Caught off guard I got hit and slammed into a wall.

Vegeta

Smirking, I was pleased to see his reflexes were a little slow. I didn't wait for him to recover. As he stood and slid into his fighting stance I came at him again. Throwing swift punches, I tried to drive him backwards toward the wall, cutting off his mobility. I intended to press any advantage I could get rather than waiting for him to gain his wind and push back. I knew he was stronger than he let on. A battle tested fighter. But so was I.

Son Goku

I snarled and leapt to my feet, grinning. He wanted to play rough today! Memories of our fight on the ship floated through my mind and I found myself anxious to kick his ass. I had promised not to cause him anymore trouble but here I didn't have to worry. Then I remembered that I still had to be careful about how much I let him know, but...

Anyway, it wouldn't hurt him to get a decent pounding - maybe that would do something for his usual attitude. I dodged his punches and delivered a mighty blow to his jaw, then kicked his legs from under him and sent him flying. In an instant I was over him, smashing him into the ground. Seconds later my elbow hit his sternum.

Vegeta

'Aw shit!' Cussing mentally, I acknowledged that I underestimated him again as the breath was forced from me.

'Bloody hell!' I wheezed and grunted and spun away to recover but didn't allow myself more than a moment. Flying back at him, I delivered punch after punch at his face and chest, trying to get within his longer reach under his guard and then sent my foot straight into his stomach, changing my tactics slightly as he seemed to be able to keep many of my hits from landing. I jumped backwards and created a small yet condensed ki-ball and sent it rocketing at him.

Son Goku

He moved quick, very quick and I realized yet again that he used his smaller stature as an advantage against me. I smiled wide and went after him. I really enjoyed the fight! He turned and delivered several punches to me. He was actually getting through enough so that I had to power up more. Suddenly I saw a ki-blast coming straight for me. I crossed my arms in the usual x-block and simply let it dissipate on my own ki. Before the smoke had cleared away I flew at him again, dodging to one side and skipping around him, dealing a row of punches to his unguarded side. This had always been a flaw in his stance - he needed to work on that.

Vegeta

I growled low when he blocked my attack as if it were nothing special. I didn't have the time to think on it though. He came at me strong and fast and we circled each other, diving forward and dodging backwards, each intent on preying upon the other's weaknesses. He slipped under my guard a number of times and it just served to call up my ire. Shifting to try and cover the fault he seemed to have found I attacked again. If he thought that he could target a weak point, he thought wrong. Shifting again I caught his arm as he tried a third time to take advantage of the opening and I used his momentum against him. I grinned smugly as I fell backwards, catching him with my feet and sending him launching overhead. I was up an instant later to see him catch himself.

Son Goku

I rolled swiftly and was back to my feet. He was very good - I could have sworn he actually noticed that flaw of his. We were almost matched in this state. I felt like giving him a challenge. I wanted to make that smug grin disappear from his face. If anything I had always been stronger than him. There had to be something... I thought hard…then smirked and briefly concentrated for a moment.

"Kaaioooken!" My old power up came easily to me, despite the fact that I had not used it for quite a while. It seemed almost natural still. The familiar red glow surrounded me and I felt the power surge through me. I twirled my tail, glowing red too, and attacked again, much faster now in my semi-ascended state. I dealt a fast kick to his chin, but gave up the feint when he moved to dodge, instead swirling around on one leg and slamming my heel into the back of his neck.

Vegeta

I snarled through the haze of pain and stumbled but I would not let myself fall. I rolled with the hit and came back up to my feet only slightly unsteadily. What the hell sort of fighting technique was this??!!

I snarled and compressed my ki around me, drawing every last source of energy I could gather and launched at him. He met me blow for blow and gave even better. I couldn't believe just what I was seeing and feeling. He could not be this strong. That he could match me so effortlessly only made me fight harder. I would not back down from one of my own!! I would not lose to another Saiyajin!! Not some lost rebel!! Seeking that last burst of energy that always came when I met a stronger opponent I lunged to clash with him again.

Son Goku

It was amazing! He kept up with me, blow for blow for blow! He was so strong! I honestly wondered what had happened! I could positively swear that he was - would be… not as strong when we first met, back on earth when he came for the dragonballs! How could that be? It was impossible! I doubled the kaioken, then multiplied it tenfold and still he was keeping up though he had visible problems doing so. I felt that I was starting to sweat. My body wanted to ascend, it was such a normal reaction at this point of the fight, and keeping it down almost cost me more energy then actually doing it would have. I glowed bright red by now, breathing hard as I launched into another attack. I phased in and out and he did too, leaving the impression of briefly clashing lightning bolts to an unsuspecting spectator. The very air in the smaller arena shook as we clashed time after time, punch meeting block, foot connecting to arm, fist hitting on softer flesh.

Vegeta

The battle only increased and I found that I could hardly keep up with him now though I would never stop at this point. My blood was pounding and from the flashing glimpses of his face each time we clashed, I could see his was as well. It was humiliating and empowering to be pushed like this, to bear arms with one who could match me so well. His energy was scathing in it's intensity and glowed a bloody red. It seemed very fitting and suddenly brought back the image of him grinning as he swam through that scarlet ocean on that distant pale planet. The sudden picture was oddly distracting and cost me a hard blow to the stomach, slamming me into the ground.

"Fuck!" I kicked him off of me and lurched to my feet. My mood shifted quickly. I was getting pissed now. Where the hell did this moron come from??!

Son Goku

I smiled wildly. How I loved to fight him! No one could set me on fire like he did... I could actually forget that it was not my Vegeta I was fighting... I managed to surprise him for a moment but he pushed me back. For a moment he almost seemed desperate... and I was oddly reminded of when I stumbled into that room and saw him there, with Jeice... It was enough to distract me for a moment.

Vegeta

Throwing him off I leapt back to my feet, already gathering my energy in my hands. I would not be felled by the likes of him!! I would not be beaten!! He was not going to stand against me! I refused to accept it. My energy flashed brightly with anger and frustration and I formed it into a strong blast, I smirked as he fell back into a defensive posture while my ki gathered swiftly.

'Let's see how he stands up to this...' He would see what it meant to mess with me. Everything had faded out except for the battle and my own inner demons and I relished the adrenaline that flowed through me. I would put down my opponent this time.

"Final Flash!!"

Son Goku

My eyes widened as I turned to see Vegeta's famous attack coming straight at me! In the blink of an eye I had collected my energy and brought my hands together at my sides in the familiar gesture.

"Kame...." It was my instinctive reaction to this kind of threat and my body reacted without even bothering my brain.

"Hame...." I summoned my power and thrust the hands in front of me, releasing the blast.

"HAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA!!!"

Vegeta

I let loose my attack and just an instant later he loosed one of his own. I had never heard of this particular one. My eyes narrowed as I braced myself for whatever was about to come. The energy smashed to a halt in a bright merge of different colours and... held. But I found that I had to press all of my energy into it. It took everything I had and I struggled to hold back that huge blast with all my might. Cursing out loud, I bared my teeth as I strained to force my energy to press back his but I couldn't! I fucking couldn't!! And then my blast began to give way under the sheer weight of his.

Son Goku

I had released a huge amount of the energy I had in this state. It was instinct, a reaction to the oncoming threat, but it was a very strong blast. The two attacks clashed amidst us. I felt him press harder but in the end he could not withstand the power of my blast. I had already worn him out pretty much. Before I had time to think his blast was dissipating and suddenly I realized that if the blast caught him there was a good chance that he would be seriously hurt. Somehow that did trouble me... and then my eyes widened as I realized that this time held none of our little helpers like senzu and Dende. They had these regen-tanks but what if it was too strong? He seemed determined to block my blast, stubborn as always and I opened my mouth, suddenly aware that if he was hurt I would not forgive myself. Not only for the sake of the time-line... but for him...

"Vegeta... look out... get out of the way! Don't try to take it!" I yelled.

Vegeta

My eyes narrowed as the blast sliced through my own, my energy diffusing before it. How could this happen? How could it possibly... I stiffened and locked down on myself angrily. I would not lose!! Not to him!! Seizing my strength again I compressed my ki to me. I refused to move! I refused to retreat from the blast. I would not run from the likes of this moron. I could take anything! I poured my energy into a shield and brought up my arms protectively. When the wave washed over me I was steady and solid. I would not...

Son Goku

I tried my best to steer the kame-hame-ha away, to make it take another direction. I could not do anything about the intensity anymore and the distance was just too short to do anything else. I stared in horror as his face took a determined and stubborn expression and he glared right into my eyes as he crossed his arms to block.

Damn! No!!! Too late. It engulfed his body and there was a blinding light.

~ a blinding flash and a moment's turmoil later ~

Vegeta

"...fuck..." I groaned. I felt like shit. What happened? I opened my eyes but everything was a blur. For a few moments I couldn't breathe but finally I managed to force a lungful of air past my throat. My heart was still pounding in my chest but the rest of me felt sluggish and broiled. I lay there stunned, my muscles refusing to cooperate and my eyesight fuzzing in and out.

Son Goku

As soon as the smoke cleared I ran over to him. He was on the floor, not moving. My heart beat frantically. I didn't want to hurt him! Honestly, I had not! Maybe I had wanted to show him how strong I was, wanted him to acknowledge me. Maybe I had been a bit frustrated because of all the unresolved matters between us. Maybe I was really not able to clearly divide him and my emotions for his older counterpart from each other. But I swore that I never wanted to really hurt him. I rushed to his side, my heart pounding. Oh please... I dearly hoped that my frantic tries had been enough to weaken the blast considerably. I kneeled down at his side. His body was singed badly and his arms and breast plate were a mess. But he breathed. I nearly cried out in relief.

Vegeta

Pain suffused my body as I tried to move. For a moment I didn't know where I was and imagined just where I might be. The thought made me struggle more and the bright discomfort helped to bring me fully conscious again. Desperately I tried to move, to regain my bearings, to steady myself.

"Shit!!" I felt like I had been nearly crushed but the pain was raw and diffused rather than specific and sharp. The difference made itself plain. I calmed slightly. What happened...

Son Goku

His eyes were open but he did not seem to see me. I did not know what to do. I had no senzu and I didn't even know where the medical wing was! This ship was a maze and I had not yet learned to find my way here! And I couldn't teleport either since I did not know a single ki... besides Radditz'. For a brief moment I considered grabbing Vegeta and teleporting to Radditz... he would know what to do... But that would give away a lot and I didn't know if Vegeta would appreciate it at all... I tried to determine how badly he was wounded but it was hard to tell with the amour.

"Ve... Vegeta? Can you hear me?" Why? Why did he have to be that stubborn? Cautiously I raised a hand and patted him lightly, no knowing whether he was unconscious or not.

Vegeta

My vision started to clear slightly and I saw messy black spikes surrounding an almost tearful face bent over me and someone's touch. I jerked.

'What the hell?!' Then it was clear again and I angrily took control of myself.

'That son of a bitch! He beat me! How the hell could he be so strong?!' I didn't care that I was in pain. I didn't care what condition I was in. I was one of the strongest Saiyajin alive and this brain-damaged nobody nearly killed me with one ki-blast!!! I WAS PISSED!!!

My eyes locked onto his worried face and I reached up with one singed arm, grabbing the front of his uniform.

"You bastard! Who the hell are you?!" I snarled and hauled him down to look me in the eye.

Son Goku

Out of the blue an arm shot forward and grabbed me with surprising strength and suddenly I found myself face to face with the prince of all Saiyajin. A very not unconscious and VERY scorched, fuming prince. But I didn't even register his words, because I was so relieved to see that he was up and okay. He had me seriously worried for a moment!

"Vegeta-sama, you're okay... thank kami!"

Vegeta

My rage only grew worse at the expression on his grinning face. I bared my teeth and a dark growl rose from depths of my chest. I didn't let go as I forced my body to obey whether it wanted to or not and pushed off the ground, using him for support until I was upright. Then I knocked him on his ass and rolled to my knees. I was gasping for air from the exertion but I didn't care.

"What the fuck are you?!" Many things came to mind right then and there and none of them were pleasant. I glared at him as I would at a poisonous unknown creature.

Son Goku

Slowly my state of happy oblivion cleared as I realized the rage in his face. Uhoh... not good... VERY bad... Stunned I sat on my behind and gazed at him. He was a total mess and he looked like he should not have been able to move at all. I could not constrict a small smile. He had never given up to anything and had always refused to listen to his body's demands...

"Vegeta... You are hurt... I should take you to the medical wing."

Vegeta

Stiffly I pushed up further and glared down at him. I needed no one to look after my health! I needed no one to take me anywhere!

"FUCK YOU! ANSWER MY QUESTION!!!" I snarled back I was not going to take anything less this time. He had told me next to nothing and lied to me for long enough. Now he would speak. Who the hell was he and how was he so strong and why was he here and what did he want?!!

Son Goku

Helplessly I gazed at him. He was truly enraged, I could tell that. But what should I tell him? I could not tell him anything. I couldn't even come up with a lie or a cover story. I had never been very imaginative. And my ability to lie was downright helpless. I opened my mouth, but nothing came out. I felt like a carp on land. Closing my mouth I looked away, unable to stand his burning gaze. It had always been especially hard for me to deny him anything.

"I... I can't, Vegeta.. I am sorry. I didn't want to hurt you, honestly..." My voice was quiet and docile. I hoped that he would not press me further but at the same time I knew that he would demand answers at some point. I had to see that I got away from him. But where to? I didn't feel like leaving... not after all we'd been through. I was his bodyguard and to my surprise I felt responsible… for… him…

Vegeta

I clenched my fists and snarled up at the bulkheads above when he refused to answer. He didn't want to hurt me? He should worry more about himself! My voice grated.

"I do not need anyone to worry about my health. I can take anything you can give. It's you who should be careful not to piss me off." I growled.

"I don't need anyone to look after me." I stepped up to him and glared seriously.

"You speak a different language from a different planet. You are strong. Stronger than you should be! You act... like you are either stupid or insane! You know Frieza and yet you know nothing else! You deny the lizard one moment and talk of rebelling and the next you say you do not want to face him. If anyone needs looking after it is you. You wouldn't last a day here no matter how strong you are and don't expect *me* to do it!" Staring down at him I felt the heat from the burns increase and grimaced. Why did he enrage me so much? I could keep my temper around anyone else. He served to infuriate me no matter what he did and now he stood there meekly, unable to look at me and it just made me want to put him on his knees even more. I let out another low growl and stepped away again, pulling off my gloves in an effort to distract myself from... from doing *something* to him when my temper finally snapped. He had not provoked me other than that huge attack... How could he be so strong anyway? I watched him suspiciously from the corner of my eye. Once again I got a sudden breath of that sweet dry scent but it was gone an instant later. I shook it away.

Son Goku

I had not realized just how much I had given away already. I just didn't know how to face him. I should go away. Why had no one brought me back? Why had I not found a way to get out of here yet?

Suddenly I realised that I had not even thought about getting away for some time.

Why? Why was that so? I couldn't... probably feel comfortable here? No. With Vegeta of all people? No. Vegeta who was yelling at me. Who had always treated me like some insolent low-life. Who had insulted me again and again... Who had never in his life shown any sympathy or even patience to me...

Vegeta who had told me that I was number one... Vegeta who had helped me save the world... Who had stayed with me when everyone else went their own ways. Vegeta who had taught me how to read this new language... who had stood up to Zarbon for me... who had lain in my arms, shivering...

I realized that I kept mixing both Vegeta's up... but there was truth to it and my face softened at the thought of how vulnerable he had looked right after Jeice... I had to leave... leave this place, this time, him... but... I felt so torn. I knew that I was causing problems, that something was going horribly wrong, that I had done damage from the minute I had landed here. I was fooling myself when I still hoped that the time-line had not been changed till now. Something stirred at the back of my mind. I should pursue it further but my mind was too distracted with the problem at hand.

I could not answer Vegeta. What should I say? I could not lie to him - it had always been extremely hard for me to do so at all and to him it had always been hardest. I shuffled my feet and simply stood there, not looking at him, not knowing how to react.

Vegeta

Finally managing to pull off my scorched gloves I looked down at myself. My hands were fine but my arms had been scorched pretty well. He had hit me very hard with that last shot. I felt heavy on my feet and closed my eyes, taking a deep tense breath just to make sure I still could. He matched me too well. He was dangerous. Yet he had not done anything so far that I would think someone as strong as him would have done. What did that say of him? That he had seen me in my weakness and not done anything... I could not trust him... but he was as strong as I... and the vague thought that continued to rub me raw was that he might even be stronger than I. A Saiyajin that was SO much more powerful than the prince! I was among the strongest Saiyajin alive! And this nameless fool appeared and I couldn't even seem to get a glimpse of his boundaries!

"You asked me before how I could trust Frieza not to turn on me? Well I will ask you this: How could I trust you any more than that lizard? You are just as vague and deceitful. I have no way of knowing what you are capable of. I don't even know how strong you are. What is to keep you from doing as you please?" I asked him suddenly. Speaking to him seemed to help my tension ease.

"I will not give way to anyone, especially not my own kind."

Son Goku

His words made me wince visibly. It hurt. It shouldn't hurt so much, I was used to it... used to insults... used to being judged a brainless idiot, useless beside my fighting ability. Save the world and then bye-bye, Goku. I shivered slightly, hugging my arms around myself. Wherever I went, whenever I was. It always caught up with me. But this. He had called me a great many things over time. Third class. Bastard. Baka. Imbecile. Worthless Idiot. But this. He compared me to... to the one who was still haunting my dreams. He implied that I was no better than Frieza.

"You... I know you don't trust me, but... do you really actually think that I am like Frieza? When have I ever..." I swallowed what I had wanted to say and stared at him, and I was sure that my face must give away my utter shock. I had known that he was unsure of what to think about me. But that he would go that far...

"I am nothing like Frieza. Anything else but that. Never, ever compare me to Frieza." I paused for a moment, closing my eyes, forcing back the pain. When I opened them again I was almost back to my usual facial expression. The mask I wore so well.

"You are hurt. You need to be treated."

Vegeta

I watched him silently, my face wiped of all emotion. He had not liked that at all. Well that was too bad. I was not interested in what he liked. My temper began to settle again and I was in control once more. So he claimed not to be like the Ice-jin. I still had no reason to believe it. My voice was steady and bland when I responded.

"Then prove it." I continued on before he could respond to that, any response he made would just be worthless words. Glancing down at myself and grimacing in distaste, I began to painfully, slowly strip it off my melted armour.

"There is a reason we wear this armour. It has ki-dampeners built into the material to help absorb large blasts during battle. If you were a *normal* warrior you would know these things." I explained.

"This is nothing. I've had worse from my own nursemaid... much worse." I added the last as if it were a quiet, unintended afterthought.

Son Goku

His voice... I glanced over, quickly, then averted my eyes again. What... did he mean by that? It sounded so unusual... I wondered just what his life had been like until now. I looked away as he stripped the burned armour off.

"But you're still pretty singed on the edges..." The skin beneath was raw and red but it had looked worse than it was. He could take a lot, I had always known that. And he positively hated me to fuss about him. Always had.

"That's the Vegeta I know..." I sighed. I hadn't realized I said it aloud until I felt his glare hit me again.

Vegeta

I moved silently to rid myself of the half melted, destroyed material until I finally stood in only my pants and looked over my skin. He added his commentary on my condition but I ignored him. My chest was bruised and a bit tender but it only stung a lightly. But then again... I had a relatively high pain threshold so that was little indication of the damage. My arms had taken most of the abuse. They were raw and shaking and did look in need of attendance. Underneath all this were the bruises and abrasions that I had gained from Jeice. Another session in the regen-tank... at least it would gain me some time, I thought to myself. Then I heard the last thing he quietly said and turned to frown at him with dark suspicion.

"What...?" He froze for a second and I pressed the issue.

"What did you say?"

Son Goku

I silently cursed myself for not being able to shut that big treacherous mouth of mine. I blushed fiercely but hoped in vain that he did not see it.

"Nothing. I said nothing." I averted my eyes from him, trying not to stare too concerned at his wounds. His skin was bruised and burned and angry red in parts. I winced as I imagined how painful that must be. At home he would have had to take a senzu for this. Again I was reminded that there were no senzu in this time. I had to be much more careful. If I hurt him, anybody here, there would be no miracles... I decided then that I would not power up so much if forced to fight again, that I would keep myself in check and not try to impress anyone. It was too dangerous. I would try not to get into anymore fights.

Vegeta

I shook my head and watched him intently. He had just made another mistake and he knew it. I again remembered the day I met him and he called me by name when he seemed to know nothing else. He... He even asked why I was speaking Saiya-go. He did not make sense in any way at all. I could almost certainly just consider him insane and be done with it except that he had shown his intelligence in too many things so far.

"Just what do you think you know of me?" I asked with a dangerous tone.

Son Goku

I was taken aback. He had asked me nearly the same question only three days back when I had arrived here. I had not known what to say then and I didn't know now. I know a lot of you, Vegeta... I know your future. Yet I know nothing about you, neither now nor ever. You never allowed me to.

"You are the Saiyajin no ouji. My... our prince." I shrugged helplessly, not really realizing the slip. What else could I tell him?

Vegeta

That... was a good answer. I snorted. He learned quickly. But it was not the sort of answer I wanted and his stutter would have been plain to any fool listening. Had he been about to say his? It was normal enough to be used in my title but what did his slip mean? I considered just what he might have been insinuating. He still gave me nothing else though. My chest and arms burned but the pain had dulled. It was not as bad as it could have been. There was still part of the day left. The regen tank could wait until later. My stomach was empty and the adrenaline had begun to wear off leaving me to feel the full effects of the fight.

"See that you don't forget that." I stated instead of pursuing the matter. It would just serve to piss me off again and I was growing more and more bothered by that. I should have more control. Losing control caused unwanted things to happen. I turned away from him and began to stride, slightly unsteadily, toward the showers. I needed a new uniform to cover up the burns until I got to the medical bay later. I would not walk around looking like a wounded stray. I would have enough problems on the upper decks.

Son Goku

He seemed not satisfied with my answer, as were to be anticipated. But he did not press further, yet again surprising me. His older self would never have let me slip with something like that... yet again I was reminded how eerily different and yet so alike the two where. And yet again I wondered just why... He turned and stepped away from me, not looking back. I didn't know where he was going and hurried to keep up. A question had steadily been pestering me more.

"What is going to happen with me, Vegeta? You have been reassigned. What is my place now? Am I being sent back?" I shivered at the thought. Everything I did, in vain... And strangely, I didn't want to leave here, didn't want to leave... him... even though he did not trust me. I looked at that thought. Odd. I had always felt strangely drawn to him, the last of my people. But now... this was not the man I knew and it was even stranger on a ship where hundreds of others like me did their duty. There must be another reason... but what I did not know.

Vegeta

I continued striding forward, not looking back.

"You are my bodyguard. You go where I go, unpleasant as it may be. You asked for it, you received it. Just remember your oath. Radditz shall accompany me as well. Even on the upper decks I *will* keep the company of my own kind." I informed him securely though, again, I thought about matter of Radditz. I liked it less and less. Then I was stepping into the backrooms.

Son Goku

First I was relieved. So I was not sent back to Vegeta-sei or off into some unknown fate. But somehow his wording struck me as odd. He kept making hints at the unpleasantness of this relocation. Why?

"Unpleasant... why is this? And unpleasant for Radditz and me or for you?"

Vegeta

I stripped off the rest of my uniform and turned to head to the showers. My thoughts turned dark with my last thought. I knew perfectly well what awaited on the upper decks. His question made me pause for a second. He didn't know. Radditz would know. I looked back at him with unreadable black eyes.

"I suppose the discomfort depends upon just whose point of view you are using. Radditz will most likely request to accompany me." I was thoughtful for a moment.

"But perhaps I should deny his request. He has been loyal and reliable for a long time." I paused again.

"You... I can do nothing about. You have taken your place at my side and it is well known by now. Even if I assigned you elsewhere, you have gained attention so it will make little difference. Especially with Zarbon." I turned and continued off, speaking gruffly as I went.

"As for myself. I have always adapted. I will do so again. I am strong enough to stand on my own and I will not stay there. The god of blood himself could not hold me there even if he tried. I control my own fate." I said this but I glared at the ground ahead of me as I went to the showers. I would fight to my last breath than take what was being handed me... and it was probably true.

Son Goku

He kept on confusing me. It depended on the point of view. Whose point? I didn't get it. He had already stated that he was not really happy about this though he kept refusing to tell me why. It was almost as if he either assumed that I should know or if it was too bad or too embarrassing to tell. By now it was clear that he was heading for the showers again. Cautiously I sniffed at my own person, deciding immediately that despite the bath way back on Asora-sei I was *definitely* in for a shower myself. I followed him, quickly stripping and stepping into a stall. While we both cleaned ourselves I thought about what he said. I did not really know what Radditz' position towards Vegeta was, but from my experiences I would have thought he was some kind of bodyguard... but since I had been assigned that title it couldn't very well be that. So... he seemed to be some kind of companion, directly responsible to Vegeta, for training or purging or whatever. Vegeta had not seemed very close to anyone on this ship but with Radditz he had at least acted more relaxed than with anyone else I had seen him with so far.

He kept stating that I had gained attention as if that was something bad and somehow it connected to Zarbon. I knew that there was something I just did not understand yet. My own feelings concerning Zarbon were very mixed. He made me very nervous and somehow I didn't like his constant smile - but he had punished Jeice...

'I am strong enough to stand on my own.' Yes... that was typically Vegeta. He kept surprising me with things that were so very like him and then, opposed to that, things that were not like him at all. I rinsed my hair and tail of the last soap and stepped out of the stall again to dry myself. Vegeta still seemed occupied in the shower. Funny. Normally he was criticising me for taking so long. What did he have to wash off?

Vegeta

I turned the heat up as high as I could stand it and just stood under the cascading water. It made my burns flare up and sting badly but I did not care. I had pushed all thoughts away while we were still on the ship. I knew just what had been happening while I let Son pilot. I had tuned it out until now. I used the water to try to burn away the still clinging touch that I could feel on my skin. I noticed the bruises from being manhandled beneath the red burned tint of my chest. That little bastard deserved everything he got. He had had to fucking drug me to get his way, he would have never even gotten close otherwise. I would have killed him.

Now... I just leaned against the wall and let the clean liquid wash away all traces of that bastard from me. After a while I realized how long it had been and cursed my own weakness for letting these things get to me. I had been away too long. My defences were rusty. Quickly I finished and stepped out to find that Son was already done and waiting for me. Stiffly I dried myself and found a new uniform. It did not bear my crest but it had long sleeves to cover my arms so I was satisfied. Shaking the still nasty feelings away I began to dress.

Son Goku

Finally Vegeta emerged from the shower. He threw a sharp glance towards me then proceeded to dress himself. I kept my eyes strictly to the floor this time. I couldn't help the feeling that he would appreciate a bit of decency right now. I tugged at my amour feeling uncomfortable again. How I would love it if I could just once wear my usual clothes again... I wondered if they ever wore anything else here... it seemed not so...

"Where are we going now?"

Vegeta

I dressed quickly and just as I settled my armour down on my shoulders Son spoke up again. I finished straitening my uniform.

"Food." One last day eating gruel in the commons... unless I chose to. The perk was not exactly worth the price though. I still did not look forward to eating that filth but I needed it to hold me over until I was ready to go to the hospice. I would not give this Saiyajin the satisfaction of seeing me go to the regen tank after one fight with him. I did not have anything pressing my physical health just yet. I had a day of freedom still. I turned and headed out, knowing he would follow. I had said the magic word for any Saiyajin.

~ to be continued ~

Outro (containing highly compromising videos and an award's show)

Rogue: *groans, stretched out on a beach chair, one arm dangling onto the carpeted concrete. A pair of dark glasses blocking out the harsh light of a lemon-yellow tinted street lamp.* Oooooooh....... *rolls over and snuggles up to an even more miserable lump on a chair pressed up against her's and sighs contentedly* Mmmh....pina colada scented Saiyajin.... How nice.... *laughs and then holds a throbbing forehead* Ow... I think I need another one...my headache came back...

DarkSerapha:*stands with her back to a wall, looking at the miserable two, a scowling ouji right next to her* Well I don't have pity for any of you! No one made you drink a dozen pina coladas... and you, Son! I thought you would be more responsible... *ponders for a sec* Wait, this is Goku we're talking about... forget what I said just now...

Son Goku: Uuuunnnnh... *is tightly curled up to a ball* Getaaaaa.... help meee… headache... please kill me....

Rogue: *cringes* Aww. Don't yell at Son. I had fun watching him stumble around. He's such a happy drunk and he did tricks. *smirks* Even *you* were happy, angel, when he started to dance on the table. At least I am more reserved.

DarkSerapha: Well yes, who wouldn't be, seeing Son strip... until Vegeta blinded us with a Solar Flare and dragged him away, that is... *pouts at the smirking ouji* Anyways, pull yourself together, love, we have work to do! *rubs hands and pulls the protesting neko-jin from her hiding place

Rogue: NooooooooooooOOUCH! Leggo! My tail! He's on my tail!! *pulls back and begins trying to tug limp tail from underneath the unmoving lump of muscles* Get offa my tail!!! You bastard!!

Son Goku: Mmmh... *mumbles contentedly as he slips back to sleep* Geta... mmmh... silk... lodge... *snore*... my ouji... let me serve you...

Vegeta: *growls and leans up from the wall to assist his soul keeper* Bakayaro.... *eyes widen at the incoherent mumblings and he curses under his breath* Kakarott!! Get off the neko. She's the one who did this to you in the first place. Baka! Letting a weak female beat you at a drinking game. You deserve this. *grasps Goku unkindly by the nape of his neck and wrests him to his feet* Get over it! You're a Saiyajin for Kami's sake!

Son Goku: *clings still half asleep to the ouji* Mmmh... Vegeta... my liege... let me please you... *nuzzles Vegeta's neck and snuggles close

DarkSerapha:*snickers* Well, well... this does remind me of something, doesn't it, my dear? *smirks at Rogue* What a perfect introduction to the main topic of our little meeting tonight.

Rogue: *pouts and examines kinked tail* My pooor tail.... It's all smooshed and look! The fur is all wrinkled! I need a brush... *glances over at the two Saiyajin as Vegeta growls and tries to drop Goku back onto the chair without success* I guess so... *is still petting tail and looking distracted - then eyes widen* Oh! Yes. You're right, angel. Slam Dancer's prize! *smirks*

Vegeta: *can't seem to get out of the "weakling baka's" grip* Kakarott! Shut up! I've never seen anyone who holds their liquor as badly as you! Get a hold of yourself. Bloody hell! *finally slams the inebriated Saiyajin down and backs up to a safe distance*

DarkSerapha:*hides her eyes behind her hand and groans* This whole business would go right downhill if it wasn't for me... I hereby forbid you to touch a drop of alcohol for the next... say... two years or so! *sighs exaggeratedly* Now, back to the main event! *switches on an angelic smile and suddenly colourful lights blink in the night, changing the street corner into Hollywood boulevard. A red carpet is laid out and a stage is set right beneath one of the street lamps, with a large ruby dais overshadowing it*

Yes! We have a winner! *angel suddenly wears a long sparkling dress and her long black hair is let down in curls, her wings flapping excitedly as she stands on the red carpet, speaking into a microphone* Ladies and gentleman! Please welcome the winner of the first In'lar-Anth guessing-contest! Please applaud for... SLAM DANCER!!! *a figure gets visible at the far end of the red carpet and, as she walks closer, is greeted with roaring applause by the assembled readers and reviewers

Rogue: *cringes and shades eyes from the garish light* Oh Kami, no! Not my beautiful street corner!! Look what you've done!! It was bad enough what the others did!! AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAH!!! Stop it, stop it!!

*growls* Oy! My street corner! Yeah, yeah, so she won! Good. Great. Sure, whatever. It's done. Everybody go home. There is gonna be no Hollywood boardwalk on my corner!

DarkSerapha:*growls angrily and the lights seem to dim down* Really, you have absolutely no sense for drama! *waves Slam Dancer to step over* Will you at least announce just what she chose for a prize and what she actually gets or do I have to do everything on my own around here?

Rogue: *sighs* Yes. Ok. *turns to Slam Dancer, snubbing everyone else who has up to now camped out on the sidewalk* Well, my dear. For guessing our game right and telling who did which characters, you were offered your own choice of prize. Of course... you chose the one thing that everyone else wants. The very video that started it all. *hentai grin* And here it is, for your eyes only. *smirks evilly at everyone else - a snarl is heard in the background*

Vegeta: *looks suddenly murderous* WHAAAT?!?!

Son Goku: *blinks a few times dazedly then realizes that he is on his own and looks around searching for Vegeta* Unnh? 'Geta? What's up? Why are those funny lights all around...? *slowly realizes the ouji's face-colour - bright red* Ummmh... 'Geta? Is something wrong?

DarkSerapha:*smirks and also steps up to Slam Dancer* Yes, my dear, you heard right. You are the lucky winner of this memorable video, edited and created solely for you. How did this madness start? What made Vegeta and Son play along with us? Questions over questions… which will be answered in this little jewel of In'lar-Anth-history.

Rogue: *sweatdrops and turns to Vegeta, backing away slightly. Taps angel on the shoulder and points to the prince who is slowly stalking nearer* Oh....Uh.... Did I just say that? Um.... I guess I'm a little confused... Hangover, you know. Really... *clears throat and hardens* Hey! Wait a minute! You won't dare touch me! It's in the clause of the contract you signed. You touch me and it's all forfeit, Vegy. And we have enough copies that if something happens to us, it *will* be distributed! You should be happy that only Slam Dancer is getting it.

DarkSerapha:*smirks coyly at the prince* Exactly. At least for now… if you keep being so uncooperative we might share it yet with ALL of our readers... plus we have collected MUCH more compromising material since then and you know it, my prince… ah... such fond memories… *snickers Rogue-like which earns her an odd look form all the surrounding watchers* What? WHAT? I am a half fallen angel!! I can be evil! Really! Just look at the second hidden chapter... *smirks even more evilly* If you can, that is... if you reviewed... and got the link... *snicker* Guess who did Zarbon there... *earns even more disbelieving stares - eye twitches nervously* ARGH! I CAN BE EVIL! REALLY! WHY DOESN'T ANYBODY BELIEVE ME??? *huff huff*

Vegeta: *stops and clenches fists, eye twitching, grumbling* Fucking onnas! You swore... You ARE EVIL! FUCKING EVIL WENCHES, BOTH OF YOU! *snarls and hauls Goku back to his feet and stalks off into the shadows, dragging him along and cussing all the way*

Rogue: *smirks and holds forehead again* Ooooow...did he have to go and yell like that? My ears are ringing now...

Son Goku: What? Huh? Where are we going? *remembers his headache* Ooooowwww... Vegyyy... Stop yelling… and stop pulling meeee... are we going to the lodge? *hope is immediately audible in his voice* Vegyyyyy... *whines*

DarkSerapha:*calms a bit but her feathers are still bristling - grabs her lovely by the collar* You believe me, don't you? You know that I can be evil! Don't you? DON'T YOU??? *hesitates* Did he say 'lodge'? THE lodge? But isn't that where a certain video was recorded...? *a smile slowly creeps across her face

Rogue: I seriously doubt Vegy will go there now. He's too pissed. Remember how long it took for him to get over it last time. *turns back to the staring fans* Hehehe. Well. Now that they are gone. *hands video to Slam Dancer* Have fun. We did.

Now.... This chapter. And the second hidden chapter which you ONLY get if you review and ask. *turns coy* And I think that would be only those who are willing to visit us as well..... There is a certain nightwalker who seems to have given the impression that our street corners are "beneath" her or something. Well... if that is so... then I guess that she wouldn't want anything that comes from such lowly places... of course... I'm open minded. Perhaps if she asked in person I would be willing to reconsider. She enjoyed the last so much. And I have so much to offer her if she were only interested... We deal in only the most exotic plasma here. As she very well knows. We've already given a taste... but to get more you must be willing to invest more.

DarkSerapha:*snickers* You are so obsessed with that vampire, I swear... I'd rather speak with A'nore and L'orn about a certain drug-business... *realizes how that must sound and sweatdrops* Err... not that I would want to start dealing in other drugs than the one and only we currently feature... anyways, this chapter saw the very first meeting with Frieza and it seems he's not up to anything good... people keep wondering just what his interest in Vegeta might be... *snickers* Well, keep guessing. The next chapter will hold one of my first favourite scenes... I can already see all the awed faces... *smiles*

Rogue: *the neko, who has always had a thing for vampires, eyes angel for daring to go into business without her but then chuckles* Yes. I can't wait for it... Hell, I can't wait for all of them! I can't wait especially for the 30th chapter either. *sigh* There's so much in store and it just keeps getting more and more intense and wonderfully angst ridden and lemony and even a bit romantic, thanks to you. *shivers from getting all worked up* And to all of you who want to see some of the artwork that goes along with this story. My lovely Dark Serapha is soooo talented. She has done wonders. *smirk*

DarkSerapha:*blushes bright red* Aaaaaah... *waves frantically* It's nothing...really! Well, so I did some artwork for this story… You can find it here: http://www.fanarts.de/fanart.php4?id=136672&sort=zeichner

and here: http://www.fanarts.de/fanart.php4?id=136674&sort=zeichner

and here: http://www.fanarts.de/fanart.php4?id=137837&sort=zeichner

There will be more soon... you might want to check out my gallery at: http://www.fanarts.de/zeichner.phtml?id=767

Anyways, if any talented artist wants to do some pictures on In'lar-Anth we would be more than happy! Flavia alias vegoksaiyan has already done so and we absolutely loved it! We might even consider giving special rewards to any artists… like that aforementioned video...

Rogue: *smirks proudly* The first ever truly interactive fan fic!! Isn't it awesome? Hehehe. Of course, this chapter was set up so that it made sense even if you don't read the hidden lemon so not *too* much is missed out on. This one though... is even better than the last. Not so violent but damn hot. And yes. My angel got to be the evil one this time. She's quite good though you wouldn't know by looking at... *trails off at angel's glare* err... I mean... Well. Heh. You'll see if you ask for it. For those of you who have... It's in the mail.

DarkSerapha:*smirks* Yes. So... *looks around* Huh? Err... just where is everybody...? *a cloud of dust hovers forlornly over the place and the sound of running feet can be heard in the distance - pouts* This is ridiculous! They didn't have to take of just like that!! Our corner does, of course, feature plenty of fast internet connections! *growls*

Rogue: *snickers* That's gratitude for ya. Don't worry. They'll be back real quick. Didn't I tell you at the beginning that we would have them hooked? Well if they're not hooked after this... then yaoi is not for them.

DarkSerapha:*snickers* Yes. And we are just getting started... *pulls her lovely into the embrace of her four black wings* For now our little corner falls dark again but just you wait... you all will be back! And review... if you want that second hidden chapter, that is... and if you said you wanted it but didn't get it, I hope I didn't overlook anyone but if we did please tell us! *slowly melts away into the darkness* Now dear, lets get brewing on the next part we have to offer our addic... I mean readers...

Rogue: *smirks slyly* Of course, my beautiful angel. As you command. I am looking forward to Frieza...